Changes in membrane integrity, cytoskeletal structure, and developmental potential of murine oocytes after vitrification in ethylene glycol

A systematic approach was taken to assess and optimize a protocol for intracellular vitrification by introducing high concentrations of the cryoprotectant agent (CPA) ethylene glycol (EG) into unfertilized murine oocytes. The effects of EG on membrane integrity, microfilament organization, and developmental potential were evaluated. During exposure to 0.5-2 M EG, oocytes showed maximum shrinkage to 55.5% of the isotonic volume within the first minute and reexpanded to their initial volume within 15 min. Transferral of oocytes to higher concentrations of EG (4-8 M EG) for 1-5 min after 15 min of equilibration at 2 M EC was tolerated well. Microfilament organization appeared normal after this equilibration period. During prolonged exposure (> 5 min) to high concentrations of EC (> 4 M), membrane blebs were noticed on the surface of the cells, and microfilament distribution was disturbed. After treatment with 6 M EG and vitrification with 6 M EG+0.5 M sucrose, there were no significant differences in development to the two-cell and blastocyst stages between CPA-treated, vitrified, and control oocytes. These results indicate that EC is an effective CPA for mouse oocyte vitrification protocols without any observed compromise in morphology and developmental functions.