Abstract
Vol.41 No.1
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Patient characteristics associated with zona-free oocytes and their developmental ability in vitro
JMOR, 41(1) 27-33, 2024
In human assisted reproductive technology, zona-free (ZF) oocytes are sometimes observed. Although ZF oocytes have the ability to fertilize and develop, they are physically weak. Therefore, we compared the characteristics of patients with and without ZF oocytes to identify potential risk factors, and the effect of such factors upon in vitro developmental ability. Logistic regression analysis showed that smoking [odds ratio (OR): 2.46, 95% confidence interval (Cl): 1.03–5.88, P < 0.05] and polycystic ovarian syndrome [PCOS: (OR: 2.34, 95%Cl: 1.14–4.81, P < 0.01)] were risk factors of ZF oocyte formation, whereas ZF oocytes were less likely observed in the advanced age group (OR: 0.37, 95%Cl: 0.15–0.88, P < 0.05). Although the survival rate after ICSI and blastocyst formation rate of ZF oocytes were lower, smoking and PCOS did not affect the in vitro developmental potential itself. The results of this study suggest that smoking, PCOS and advanced age affect the properties of the zona pellucida and the observed frequency of ZF oocytes. Further study may improve the outcomes of assisted reproductive technology.
