Advanced Reproductive Technologies in Oocyte Donation
Summary
Oocyte donation has evolved into a sophisticated array of assisted reproductive techniques designed to overcome ovarian insufficiency, age-related fertility decline and genetic disorders. Key advances include refined donor screening protocols that integrate hormonal biomarkers, notably anti-Müllerian hormone, to optimise yield and success. Cryopreservation by vitrification now allows flexible synchronisation of donor cycles with recipients, improving logistics and cumulative pregnancy rates. Innovations in ovarian stimulation and timing of retrieval have minimised premature luteinisation, while rescue in vitro maturation of immature oocytes broadens the pool of usable gametes. Emerging tools such as preimplantation genetic testing ensure healthier embryos, and novel microfluidic platforms promise to enhance the selection of high-quality oocytes. Together, these developments support global access, reinforce patient safety and drive more equitable outcomes in donor-based fertility care.
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Advanced Reproductive Technologies in Oocyte Donation publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in advanced reproductive technologies in oocyte donation across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Oocyte donation: A process whereby eggs retrieved from a donor are fertilised and transferred to a recipient to achieve pregnancy.
Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH): A glycoprotein secreted by ovarian follicles, serving as a clinical biomarker of ovarian reserve and predictor of response to stimulation.
In vitro maturation (IVM): Laboratory technique in which immature oocytes are cultured to maturity, expanding the pool of fertilisable eggs.
Vitrification: Ultra-rapid freezing method that prevents ice crystal formation, preserving oocyte viability during cryostorage.
References
- Anti-Müllerian hormone serum level and other markers associated with pregnancy outcome in oocyte donation. Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology (2016).
- Is It Possible to Expand Oocyte Donors by Decreasing Number of Oocytes for Own Use? Insights From a Large Single-Center Study. Frontiers in Endocrinology (2021).
- Changing clinical significance of oocyte maturity grades with advancing female age advances precision medicine in IVF. iScience (2023).
- With low ovarian reserve, Highly Individualized Egg Retrieval (HIER) improves IVF results by avoiding premature luteinization. Journal of Ovarian Research (2018).
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