The effect of cryopreservation on the genome of gametes and embryos: principles of cryobiology and critical appraisal of the evidence

This review provides an overview of studies performed to date on the effect of cryopreservation on the oocyte, sperm and embryos. Controversy of the reported data has highlighted the gaps in our knowledge not only for clinical studies, but also for basic research in human embryos. New perspectives for future research are proposed.