Cardiovascular health of offspring conceived by assisted reproduction technology: a comprehensive review

Abstract

Recently, the use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) has rapidly increased. As a result, an increasing number of people are concerned about the safety of offspring produced through ART. Moreover, emerging evidence suggests an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in offspring conceived using ART. In this review, we discuss the epigenetic mechanisms involved in altered DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNA expression, as well as imprinting disorders. We also summarize studies on cardiovascular changes and other risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as adverse intrauterine environments, perinatal complications, and altered metabolism following assisted reproductive technology (ART). Finally, we emphasize the epigenetic mechanisms underlying the increased risk of CVD in offspring conceived through ART, which could contribute to the early diagnosis and prevention of CVD in the ART population.

Keywords: DNA methylation; assisted reproductive technology (ART); cardiovascular diseases; embryo development; epigenetics.

Figure 1

All the external stimuli including superovulation, cryopreservation (23, 24), exposure to various types of lights, fluctuations in pH and temperature, changes in oxygen tension, culture media that contain specific substances such as Fe2+ and Cu2+, and gamete or embryo manipulation may induce high ROS production in the ART setup. Adding antioxidants such as melatonin to the culture medium and administering antioxidant supplements to the offspring may protect their cardiovascular health by suppressing ROS production.