IVF exposure induced intergenerational effects on metabolic phenotype in mice

Abstract

Research questionWhat is the potential transmission of metabolic phenotype from IVF offspring to the subsequent generation? DesignAn IVF mouse model was established. The F1 generation mice were produced though IVF or natural mating and the F2 generation was obtained through the mating of F1 generation males with normal females. Their metabolic phenotype, including systemic and hepatic glucolipid metabolism, was examined. ResultsIt was found that IVF F1 males exhibited metabolic changes. Compared with the control group, the IVF F1 generation showed increased body weight, elevated fasting glucose and insulin, and increased serum triglyceride concentrations. IVF F1 mice also showed an increased expression of hepatic lipogenesis and autophagy genes. Moreover, IVF F1 males transmitted some metabolic changes to their own male progeny (IVF F2) in the absence of a dietary challenge. IVF F2 mice had increased peri-epididymal and subcutaneous fat and decreased insulin sensitivity. Under the ‘second hit’ of a high-fat diet, IVF F2 mice further showed increased hepatic lipid deposition with unaltered autophagy levels. ConclusionThis research demonstrates the impact of IVF on hepatic glucose–lipid metabolism in two successive generations of offspring, highlighting the need for additional investigation. Enhanced understanding of the mechanisms underlying the transmission of multigenerational effects induced by IVF could potentially lead to the advancement of therapeutic interventions for individuals experiencing infertility.