OMICS in assisted reproduction: possibilities and pitfalls

A key step in assisted reproduction is the assessment of oocyte and embryo developmental potential in order to determine the embryo(s) most likely to result in pregnancy. Currently used embryo assessment strategies are largely based on embryo morphology and cleavage rate. Although these systems have been successful in improving pregnancy rates and reducing multiple gestations, their precision is still insufficient. Therefore, development of an objective, accurate, fast and affordable test that can aid in the assessment of oocyte and embryo developmental potential is a significant aim of reproductive medicine. Recently, global assessment strategies involving genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic or metabolomic profiling of oocytes, granulosa or cumulus cells, embryos or culture media have been applied to assisted reproduction. These technologies are at different stages of development and present unique advantages as well as limitations.