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Antunes MB, Cardeal SP, Magalhães M, Vale-Fernandes E, Barreiro M, Sá R, Sousa M. Preservation of fertility in female patients with hematologic diseases. Blood Rev 2023; 62:101115. [PMID: 37562987 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2023.101115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Recent developments of assisted reproduction techniques turned possible to avoid the infertility consequences of oncologic treatments, but fertility preservation (FP) has been somewhat neglected in women with hematologic diseases undergoing gonadotoxic treatments. For these specific cases, the current options for FP include the cryopreservation of embryos, mature oocytes and ovarian tissue, and oocyte in-vitro maturation. We intend to make patients and clinicians aware of this important and relevant issue, and provide hematologists, assisted reproduction physicians and patients, with updated tools to guide decisions for FP. The physicians of the units responsible for female FP should always be available to decide on the best-individualized FP option in strict collaboration with hematologists. With a wide range of options for FP tailored to each case, a greater level of training and information is needed among clinicians, so that patients proposed to gonadotoxic treatments can be previously advised for FP techniques in hematological conditions. ABBREVIATED ABSTRACT: Recent developments of assisted reproduction techniques turned possible to preserve the fertility of women with hematologic diseases undergoing gonadotoxic treatments. Current options for fertility preservation in women with hematologic diseases are presented. It is imperative to offer fertility preservation to all women before starting any gonadotoxic treatment and in some cases after treatment. Fertility preservation methods enable to later achieve the desired pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marika Bini Antunes
- Department of Clinical Hematology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Largo do Professor Abel Salazar, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal; UMIB-Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine/ITR-Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Sara Pinto Cardeal
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, ICBAS-School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Manuel Magalhães
- UMIB-Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine/ITR-Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, Porto, Portugal; Department of Oncology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Largo do Professor Abel Salazar, 4099-001 Porto, Portugal
| | - Emídio Vale-Fernandes
- UMIB-Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine/ITR-Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, Porto, Portugal; Centro de Procriação Medicamente Assistida, Centro Materno-Infantil do Norte, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Largo da Maternidade, 4050-371, Porto, Portugal
| | - Márcia Barreiro
- UMIB-Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine/ITR-Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, Porto, Portugal; Centro de Procriação Medicamente Assistida, Centro Materno-Infantil do Norte, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Largo da Maternidade, 4050-371, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Rosália Sá
- UMIB-Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine/ITR-Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, Porto, Portugal; Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, ICBAS-School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Mário Sousa
- UMIB-Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine/ITR-Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, Porto, Portugal; Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, ICBAS-School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
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Torkzadeh T, Asadi Z, Jafari Atrabi M, Eivazkhani F, Khodadi M, Hajiaghalou S, Akbarinejad V, Fathi R. Optimisation of hormonal treatment to improve follicular development in one-day-old mice ovaries cultured under in vitro condition. Reprod Fertil Dev 2023; 35:733-749. [PMID: 37995332 DOI: 10.1071/rd23027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Base medium containing knock-out serum replacement (KSR) has been found to support formation and maintenance of follicles in one-day-old mice ovaries, but has not been shown to properly support activation and growth of primordial follicles. AIMS The present study was conducted to tailor the hormonal content of base medium containing KSR to enhance development of primordial follicles in neonatal ovaries. METHODS One-day-old mice ovaries were initially cultured with base medium for four days, and then, different hormonal treatments were added to the culture media and the culture was proceeded for four additional days until day eight. Ovaries were collected for histological and molecular assessments on days four and eight. KEY RESULTS In experiment I, the main and interactive effects of FSH and testosterone were investigated and FSH promoted activation of primordial follicles and development of primary and preantral follicles, and upregulated genes of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (Pi3k ), KIT ligand (Kitl ), growth differentiation factor 9 (Gdf9 ) and follicle stimulating hormone receptor (Fshr ) (P Bmp15 ), Connexin-43 (Cx43 ) and luteinising hormone and choriogonadotropin receptor (Lhcgr ) (P P Lhcgr (P P >0.05). CONCLUSIONS Supplementation of culture medium containing KSR with gonadotropins, particularly hMG, could improve follicular growth and expression of factors regulating follicular development. IMPLICATIONS This study was a step forward in formulating an optimal medium for development of follicles in cultured one-day-old mice ovaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahoura Torkzadeh
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Asadi
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran; and Department of Oncology Science, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73014, USA
| | - Mohammad Jafari Atrabi
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Medical Center, Georg August University, Göttingen, Germany; and Platform Degenerative Diseases, German Primate Center, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research (DPZ), Göttingen, Germany
| | - Farideh Eivazkhani
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Khodadi
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samira Hajiaghalou
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Akbarinejad
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rouhollah Fathi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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103
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Theilen TM, Braun Y, Rolle U, Fiegel HC, Friedmacher F. Risks of long-term mortality and chronic health conditions experienced by Wilms tumor survivors. Transl Pediatr 2023; 12:1896-1899. [PMID: 37969119 PMCID: PMC10644020 DOI: 10.21037/tp-23-430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Till-Martin Theilen
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Yannick Braun
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Udo Rolle
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Henning C. Fiegel
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
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104
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Cacciottola L, Vitale F, Donnez J, Dolmans MM. Use of mesenchymal stem cells to enhance or restore fertility potential: a systematic review of available experimental strategies. Hum Reprod Open 2023; 2023:hoad040. [PMID: 37954935 PMCID: PMC10637864 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoad040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION To what extent does regenerative medicine with stem cell therapy help to address infertility issues for future clinical application? SUMMARY ANSWER Regenerative medicine using different stem cell sources is yielding promising results in terms of protecting the ovarian reserve from damage and senescence, and improving fertility potential in various preclinical settings. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Regenerative medicine using stem cell therapy is emerging as a potential strategy to address a number of issues in the field of human reproduction. Indeed, different types of adult and fetal mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been tested with promising results, owing to their ability to differentiate into different tissue lineages, move toward specific injured sites (homing), and generate a secretome with wound-healing, proangiogenic, and antioxidant capacities. STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION Guided by the checklist for preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses, we retrieved relevant studies from PubMed, Medline, and Embase databases until June 2023 using the following keywords: 'mesenchymal stem cells' AND 'ovarian follicles' OR 'ovarian tissue culture' OR 'ovarian follicle culture' OR 'cumulus oocyte complex'. Only peer-reviewed published articles written in English were included. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS The primary outcome for the experimental strategies was evaluation of the ovarian reserve, with a focus on follicle survival, number, and growth. Secondary outcomes involved analyses of other parameters associated with the follicle pool, such as hormones and growth factors, ovarian tissue viability markers including oxidative stress levels, oocyte growth and maturation rates, and of course pregnancy outcomes. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Preclinical studies exploring MSCs from different animal origins and tissue sources in specific conditions were selected (n = 112), including: in vitro culture of granulosa cells, ovarian tissue and isolated ovarian follicles; ovarian tissue transplantation; and systemic or intraovarian injection after gonadotoxic or age-related follicle pool decline. Protecting the ovarian reserve from aging and gonadotoxic damage has been widely tested in vitro and in vivo using murine models and is now yielding initial data in the first ever case series of patients with premature ovarian insufficiency. Use of MSCs as feeder cells in ovarian tissue culture was found to improve follicle outcomes and oocyte competence, bringing us one step closer to future clinical application. MSCs also have proved effective at boosting revascularization in the transplantation site when grafting ovarian tissue in experimental animal models. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION While preclinical results look promising in terms of protecting the ovarian reserve in different experimental models (especially those in vitro using various mammal experimental models and in vivo using murine models), there is still a lot of work to do before this approach can be considered safe and successfully implemented in a clinical setting. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS All gathered data on the one hand show that regenerative medicine techniques are quickly gaining ground among innovative techniques being developed for future clinical application in the field of reproductive medicine. After proving MSC effectiveness in preclinical settings, there is still a lot of work to do before MSCs can be safely and effectively used in different clinical applications. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This study was supported by grants from the Fonds National de la Recherche Scientifique de Belgique (FNRS-PDR T.0077.14, FNRS-CDR J.0063.20, and grant 5/4/150/5 awarded to Marie-Madeleine Dolmans), Fonds Spéciaux de Recherche, and the Fondation St Luc. None of the authors have any competing interest to disclose. REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Cacciottola
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - F Vitale
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - J Donnez
- Society for Research into Infertility, Brussels, Belgium
- Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - M M Dolmans
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Gynecology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
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105
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Fu S, Yi S, Ke Q, Liu K, Xu H. A Self-Powered Hydrogel/Nanogenerator System Accelerates Wound Healing by Electricity-Triggered On-Demand Phosphatase and Tensin Homologue (PTEN) Inhibition. ACS Nano 2023; 17:19652-19666. [PMID: 37820299 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c02561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Electrical stimulation therapy (EST) has been established as an effective strategy to accelerate wound healing by stimulating cell proliferation and migration, ultimately promoting re-epithelialization and vascularization, two key processes that significantly influence the rate of wound healing. Phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN), a widely expressed protein in somatic cells, works as a "brake" regulating cell differentiation, proliferation, and migration. Given that this "brake" also works in cell electrical responses, there is a hypothesis that PTEN inhibition may amplify the efficacy of EST in wound treatment. However, long-term inhibition of PTEN may result in DNA damage and reduce DNA repair, which poses a significant challenge to the safe use of PTEN inhibitors. To address this issue, we developed a system that combines PTEN inhibitor loaded electro-responsive hydrogel (BPV@PCP) with a wearable direct current pulse piezoelectric nanogenerator (PENG). The PENG converts the rat's motions into electric fields that synchronously charge the wound edge tissue and BPV@PCP. Electric field intensity was lower when the rat was quiet or anesthetized, which is insufficient to trigger an effective PTEN inhibitor release. However, when the rat was in action, the electric field intensity exceeded 625 mV/mm, resulting in a rapid drug release. This on-demand PTEN inhibition accelerated wound healing by amplifying cell electric responsiveness while avoiding negative effects associated with continuous overinhibition of PTEN. Notably, this system improves vascularization not only by improving endothelial cell electric responsiveness but also through the paracrine pathway, in which electrical stimulation and PTEN inhibition synergically promote VEGF secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shibo Fu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Shunqian Yi
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai 200234, China
| | - Qinfei Ke
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai 200234, China
| | - Kai Liu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - He Xu
- College of Chemistry and Materials Science, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai 200234, China
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106
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Amin R, Bukulmez O, Woodruff JB. Visualization of Balbiani Body disassembly during human primordial follicle activation. MicroPubl Biol 2023; 2023:10.17912/micropub.biology.000989. [PMID: 37920272 PMCID: PMC10618801 DOI: 10.17912/micropub.biology.000989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Dormant human oocytes contain a perinuclear super-organelle, called the Balbiani Body, which is not present in mature oocytes. Here, we use confocal imaging to visualize two Balbiani Body markers-mitochondria and the DEAD-box helicase DDX4-in preantral follicles isolated from a 20-year-old female patient. In primordial follicles, mitochondria were concentrated in a ring near the oocyte nucleus, while DDX4 formed adjacent micron-scale spherical condensates. In primary and secondary follicles, the mitochondria were dispersed throughout the oocyte cytoplasm, and large DDX4 condensates were not visible. Our data suggest that the Balbiani Body breaks down during the primordial to primary follicle transition, thus releasing mitochondria and soluble DDX4 protein into the oocyte cytoplasm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruchi Amin
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States
| | - Orhan Bukulmez
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States
| | - Jeffrey B. Woodruff
- Cell Biology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States
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107
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Canosa S, Revelli A, Gennarelli G, Cormio G, Loizzi V, Arezzo F, Petracca EA, Carosso AR, Cimadomo D, Rienzi L, Vaiarelli A, Ubaldi FM, Silvestris E. Innovative Strategies for Fertility Preservation in Female Cancer Survivors: New Hope from Artificial Ovary Construction and Stem Cell-Derived Neo-Folliculogenesis. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2748. [PMID: 37893822 PMCID: PMC10606281 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11202748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in anticancer treatment have significantly improved the survival rate of young females; unfortunately, in about one third of cancer survivors the risk of ovarian insufficiency and infertility is still quite relevant. As the possibility of becoming a mother after recovery from a juvenile cancer is an important part of the quality of life, several procedures to preserve fertility have been developed: ovarian surgical transposition, induction of ovarian quiescence by gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRH-a) treatment, and oocyte and/or ovarian cortical tissue cryopreservation. Ovarian tissue cryostorage and allografting is a valuable technique that applies even to prepubertal girls; however, some patients cannot benefit from it due to the high risk of reintroducing cancer cells during allograft in cases of ovary-metastasizing neoplasias, such as leukemias or NH lymphomas. Innovative techniques are now under investigation, as in the construction of an artificial ovary made of isolated follicles inserted into an artificial matrix scaffold, and the use of stem cells, including ovarian stem cells (OSCs), to obtain neo-folliculogenesis and the development of fertilizable oocytes from the exhausted ovarian tissue. This review synthesizes and discusses these innovative techniques, which potentially represent interesting strategies in oncofertility programs and a new hope for young female cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Canosa
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.)
| | - Alberto Revelli
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.)
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 2U, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Gianluca Gennarelli
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.)
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Gennaro Cormio
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Vera Loizzi
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Francesca Arezzo
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Easter Anna Petracca
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
| | - Andrea Roberto Carosso
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Danilo Cimadomo
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
| | - Laura Rienzi
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Alberto Vaiarelli
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
| | - Filippo Maria Ubaldi
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
| | - Erica Silvestris
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
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108
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Appeltant R, Hermes R, Holtze S, Modina SC, Galli C, Bjarkadottir BD, Adeniran BV, Wei X, Swegen A, Hildebrandt TB, Williams SA. The neonatal southern white rhinoceros ovary contains oogonia in germ cell nests. Commun Biol 2023; 6:1049. [PMID: 37848538 PMCID: PMC10582104 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05256-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The northern white rhinoceros is functionally extinct with only two females left. Establishing methods to culture ovarian tissues, follicles, and oocytes to generate eggs will support conservation efforts using in vitro embryo production. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first description of the structure and molecular signature of any rhinoceros, more specifically, we describe the neonatal and adult southern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum) ovary; the closest relation of the northern white rhinoceros. Interestingly, all ovaries contain follicles despite advanced age. Analysis of the neonate reveals a population of cells molecularly characterised as mitotically active, pluripotent with germ cell properties. These results indicate that unusually, the neonatal ovary still contains oogonia in germ cell nests at birth, providing an opportunity for fertility preservation. Therefore, utilising ovaries from stillborn and adult rhinoceros can provide cells for advanced assisted reproductive technologies and investigating the neonatal ovaries of other endangered species is crucial for conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Appeltant
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, Level 3, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
- Gamete Research Centre, Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Robert Hermes
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str 17, D-10315, Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str 17, D-10315, Berlin, Germany
| | - Silvia Clotilde Modina
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell'Università 6, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Cesare Galli
- Avantea srl, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, Via Porcellasco 7/F, 26100, Cremona, Italy
- Fondazione Avantea, 26100, Cremona, Italy
| | - Briet D Bjarkadottir
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, Level 3, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Babatomisin V Adeniran
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, Level 3, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Xi Wei
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, Level 3, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Aleona Swegen
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, Level 3, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, 2308, NSW, Australia
| | - Thomas Bernd Hildebrandt
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell'Università 6, 26900, Lodi, Italy
- Freie Universität Berlin, D-14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Suzannah A Williams
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, Level 3, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK.
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109
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Zhang L, Wang YY, Zheng XY, lei L, Tang WH, Qiao J, Li R, Liu P. Novel predictors for livebirth delivery rate in patients with idiopathic non-obstructive azoospermia based on the clinical prediction model. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1233475. [PMID: 37916146 PMCID: PMC10616858 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1233475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To build a prediction model for live birth delivery per intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in iNOA patients by obtaining sperm by microdissection testicular sperm extraction (mTESE). Methods A retrospective cohort study of 377 couples with iNOA male partners treated with 519 mTESE-ICSI cycles was conducted from September 2013 to July 2021 at the Reproductive Medical Centre of Peking University Third Hospital. Following exclusions, 377 couples with iNOA male partners treated with 482 mTESE-ICSIs were included. A prediction model for live birth delivery per ICSI cycle was built by multivariable logistic regression and selected by 10-fold cross-validation. Discrimination was evaluated by c-statistics and calibration was evaluated by the calibration slope. Results The live birth delivery rate per mTESE-ICSI cycle was 39.21% (189/482) in these couples. The model identified that the presence of motile sperm during mTESE, bigger testes, higher endometrial thickness on the day of human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) administration (ET-hCG), and higher quality embryos are associated with higher live birth delivery success rates. The results of the model were exported based on 10-fold cross-validation. In addition, the area under the mean ROC curve was 0.71 ± 0.05 after 10-fold cross-validation, indicating that the prediction model had certain prediction precision. A calibration plot with an estimated intercept of -1.653 (95% CI: -13.403 to 10.096) and a slope of 1.043 (95% CI: 0.777 to 1.308) indicated that the model was well-calibrated. Conclusion Our prediction model will provide valuable information about the chances of live birth delivery in couples with iNOA male partners who have a plan for mTESE-ICSI treatment. Therefore, it can improve and personalize counseling for the medical treatment of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan-yuan Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-ying Zheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Li lei
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wen-hao Tang
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Qiao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Rong Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ping Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
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Sapmaz T, Kale E, Pence ME, Sevgin K, Tekayev M, Topkaraoglu S, Basol G, Yilmaz MB, Sapmaz E, Irkorucu O. Treatment strategies with vitamin E and C in autologous intraperitoneal ovarian transplantation and its impact on ovarian surface epithelium and follicle reserve. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 677:81-87. [PMID: 37556954 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to assess the impact of Vitamin E (Vit E) and Vitamin C (Vit C) on markers of the oxidant-antioxidant system, ovarian follicle reserves, and the surface epithelium in autologous intraperitoneal ovarian transplantation conducted in rats. The study aimed to investigate how these antioxidants influence various aspects related to transplantation outcomes, including oxidative stress markers, the preservation of follicle reserves, and the condition of the surface epithelium. A total of 20 adult female Wistar Albino rats were included in the study and randomly assigned to four different groups. Group 1, consisting of 5 rats, served as the control group and underwent a surgical procedure where their abdomens were opened and closed without any further intervention. Group 2, also consisting of 5 rats, underwent ovarian transplantation. In Group 3, comprising 5 rats, an intraperitoneal (IP) administration of 20 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) of Vitamin E (Vit E) was given 15 min prior to ovarian transplantation. Lastly, in Group 4, which included 5 rats, an IP administration of 50 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) of Vitamin C (Vit C) was given 15 min before ovarian transplantation. Vaginal cytology was performed in order to monitor the estrus phase in the rats. Biochemically, tissue and serum malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and erythrocyte superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were measured. Histopathologically, the number of dysplastic changes in the ovarian surface epithelium and primordial, primary, secondary, Graaffian, and atretic follicles were examined. Dysplastic changes in the surface epithelium of Group 2 were found to be significantly higher than in Group 1 and 4 (p < 0.02). In Group 2, the ovarian follicle reserves (primordial, primary, secondary, and Graaffian follicles) were significantly lower than in other groups (p < 0.02). In addition, a significant decrease in SOD levels was found in Group 2 compared to other groups (p < 0.02). The study showed that Vit E and Vit C in autologous intraperitoneal ovarian transplantation preserved the ovarian follicle reserve. Vit C was found to be more effective than Vit E.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tansel Sapmaz
- University of Health Sciences, Hamidiye Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Ebru Kale
- University of Health Sciences, Hamidiye Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mahmud Esad Pence
- University of Health Sciences, Istanbul Umraniye Training and Research Hospital, Department of Emergency Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Kubra Sevgin
- University of Health Sciences, Hamidiye Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Muhammetnur Tekayev
- University of Health Sciences, Hamidiye Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sude Topkaraoglu
- University of Health Sciences, Hamidiye Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gulfem Basol
- University of Health Sciences, Lutfi Kirdar City Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Muserref Banu Yilmaz
- University of Health Sciences, Zeynep Kamil Woman's and Children Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ekrem Sapmaz
- University of Health Sciences, Adana City Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Adana, Turkey
| | - Oktay Irkorucu
- University of Sharjah, College of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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Leonel ECR, Dadashzadeh A, Moghassemi S, Vlieghe H, Wyns C, Orellana R, Amorim CA. New Solutions for Old Problems: How Reproductive Tissue Engineering Has Been Revolutionizing Reproductive Medicine. Ann Biomed Eng 2023; 51:2143-2171. [PMID: 37468688 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-023-03321-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Acquired disorders and congenital defects of the male and female reproductive systems can have profound impacts on patients, causing sexual and endocrine dysfunction and infertility, as well as psychosocial consequences that affect their self-esteem, identity, sexuality, and relationships. Reproductive tissue engineering (REPROTEN) is a promising approach to restore fertility and improve the quality of life of patients with reproductive disorders by developing, replacing, or regenerating cells, tissues, and organs from the reproductive and urinary systems. In this review, we explore the latest advancements in REPROTEN techniques and their applications for addressing degenerative conditions in male and female reproductive organs. We discuss current research and clinical outcomes and highlight the potential of 3D constructs utilizing biomaterials such as scaffolds, cells, and biologically active molecules. Our review offers a comprehensive guide for researchers and clinicians, providing insights into how to reestablish reproductive tissue structure and function using innovative surgical approaches and biomaterials. We highlight the benefits of REPROTEN for patients, including preservation of fertility and hormonal production, reconstruction of uterine and cervical structures, and restoration of sexual and urinary functions. Despite significant progress, REPROTEN still faces ethical and technical challenges that need to be addressed. Our review underscores the importance of continued research in this field to advance the development of effective and safe REPROTEN approaches for patients with reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen C R Leonel
- Department of Histology, Embryology and Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Arezoo Dadashzadeh
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 55, bte B1.55.03, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Saeid Moghassemi
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 55, bte B1.55.03, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hanne Vlieghe
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 55, bte B1.55.03, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christine Wyns
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 55, bte B1.55.03, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Renan Orellana
- Departamento de Ciencias Químicas y Biológicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Bernardo O'Higgins, Santiago, Chile
| | - Christiani A Amorim
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 55, bte B1.55.03, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.
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112
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Dunlop CE, Jack SA, Telfer EE, Zahra S, Anderson RA. Clinical pregnancy in Turner syndrome following re-implantation of cryopreserved ovarian cortex. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:2385-2390. [PMID: 37566317 PMCID: PMC10504145 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02905-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Turner syndrome (TS) leads to a characteristic phenotype, including premature ovarian insufficiency and infertility. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) is becoming an established fertility preservation strategy for both pre- and post-pubertal females and may offer the chance of having a biological family to selected patients with TS. To date, women with TS have had ovarian tissue cryopreserved but there are few reports of autologous re-implantation and none of pregnancy. We herein report, to our knowledge, the first clinical pregnancy in a patient with TS, conceived naturally following re-implantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue which had been removed soon after spontaneous puberty. This provides proof of concept for OTC as a means of fertility preservation in TS.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Dunlop
- Simpson's Centre for Reproductive Health, Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, EH16 4SA, UK.
| | - S A Jack
- Simpson's Centre for Reproductive Health, Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, EH16 4SA, UK
| | - E E Telfer
- Institute of Cell Biology and CDBS, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, UK
| | - S Zahra
- Tissues, Cells & Advanced Therapeutics, Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service, Edinburgh, EH14 4BE, UK
| | - R A Anderson
- Simpson's Centre for Reproductive Health, Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, EH16 4SA, UK
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
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113
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Jia ZC, Li YQ, Zhou BW, Xia QC, Wang PX, Wang XX, Sun ZG, Guo Y. Transcriptomic profiling of human granulosa cells between women with advanced maternal age with different ovarian reserve. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:2427-2437. [PMID: 37589858 PMCID: PMC10504181 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02915-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Age-related diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) is not absolute. Some advanced maternal age (AMA) still have normal ovarian reserve (NOR) and often show better pregnancy outcomes. Exploring the transcriptomic profile of granulosa cells (GCs) in AMA could lead to new ideas for mitigating age-related diminished ovarian reserve. AIM This study aimed to analyze the transcriptomic profile of GCs in AMA with different ovarian reserve. RESULTS In total, 6273 statistically significant differential expression genes (DEGs) (|log2fc|> 1, q < 0.05) were screened from the two groups, among which 3436 genes were upregulated, and 2837 genes were downregulated in the DOR group. Through Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis, the potential functions of dysregulated genes in AMA with DOR or NOR were predicted. The GO enrichment analysis revealed that the DEGs were mainly enriched in obsolete oxidation-reduction process, mitochondrion, metal ion binding, ATP binding, etc. The KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed that the above-mentioned DEGs were mainly enriched in ferroptosis, regulation of actin cytoskeleton, oxidative phosphorylation, etc. Meanwhile, verification of the mRNA expression levels of DEGs revealed the possible involvement of "ferroptosis" in age-related diminished ovarian reserve. CONCLUSIONS From a new clinical perspective, we presented the first data showing the transcriptomic profile in GCs between AMA with different ovarian reserve. At the same time, we identified the role of ferroptosis in the GCs of AMA, providing a new biological basis for studying ovarian aging and improving pregnancy outcomes of AMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Cheng Jia
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yong-Qian Li
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Bo-Wen Zhou
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Qing-Chang Xia
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Pei-Xuan Wang
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xiao-Xuan Wang
- Reproductive and Genetic Center of Integrative Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Zhen-Gao Sun
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Reproductive and Genetic Center of Integrative Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Ying Guo
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.
- Reproductive and Genetic Center of Integrative Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.
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Hassan J, Knuus K, Lahtinen A, Rooda I, Otala M, Tuuri T, Gidlöf S, Edlund E, Menezes J, Malmros J, Byström P, Sundin M, Langenskiöld C, Vogt H, Frisk P, Petersen C, Damdimopoulou P, Jahnukainen K. Reference standards for follicular density in ovarian cortex from birth to sexual maturity. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 47:103287. [PMID: 37603956 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Are age-normalized reference values for human ovarian cortical follicular density adequate for tissue quality control in fertility preservation? DESIGN Published quantitative data on the number of follicles in samples without known ovarian pathology were converted into cortical densities to create reference values. Next, a sample cohort of 126 girls (age 1-24 years, mean ± SD 11 ± 6) with cancer, severe haematological disease or Turner syndrome were used to calculate Z-scores for cortical follicular density based on the reference values. RESULTS No difference was observed between Z-scores in samples from untreated patients (0.3 ± 3.5, n = 30) and patients treated with (0.5 ± 2.9, n = 48) and without (0.1 ± 1.3, n = 6) alkylating chemotherapy. Z-scores were not correlated with increasing cumulative exposure to cytostatics. Nevertheless, Z-scores in young treated patients (0-2 years -2.1 ± 3.1, n = 10, P = 0.04) were significantly lower than Z-scores in older treated patients (11-19 years, 2 ± 1.9, n = 15). Samples from patients with Turner syndrome differed significantly from samples from untreated patients (-5.2 ± 5.1, n = 24, P = 0.003), and a Z-score of -1.7 was identified as a cut-off showing good diagnostic value for identification of patients with Turner syndrome with reduced ovarian reserve. When this cut-off was applied to other patients, analysis showed that those with indications for reduced ovarian reserve (n = 15) were significantly younger (5.9 ± 4.2 versus 10.7 ± 5.9 years, P = 0.004) and, when untreated, more often had non-malignant haematologic diseases compared with those with normal ovarian reserve (n = 24, 100% versus 19%, P = 0.009). CONCLUSION Z-scores allow the estimation of genetic- and treatment-related effects on follicular density in cortical tissue from young patients stored for fertility preservation. Understanding the quality of cryopreserved tissue facilitates its use during patient counselling. More research is needed regarding the cytostatic effects found in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin Hassan
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Katri Knuus
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Atte Lahtinen
- Applied Tumour Genomics Research Programme, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Finland; Department of Medical and Clinical Genetics, Medicum, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ilmatar Rooda
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marjut Otala
- University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Timo Tuuri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sebastian Gidlöf
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Erik Edlund
- Department of Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Judith Menezes
- Department of Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johan Malmros
- Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden; Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Petra Byström
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Paediatrics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Section of Paediatric Haematology, Immunology and HCT, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mikael Sundin
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Paediatrics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Section of Paediatric Haematology, Immunology and HCT, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Langenskiöld
- Department of Paediatric Oncology, Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Hartmut Vogt
- Crown Princess Victoria's Child and Youth Hospital, Linköping, Sweden; Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Children's and Women's Health, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Per Frisk
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University Children's Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Petersen
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Paediatric Oncology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pauliina Damdimopoulou
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kirsi Jahnukainen
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden; Children's Hospital, Paediatric Research Centre, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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115
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Telfer EE, Grosbois J, Odey YL, Rosario R, Anderson RA. Making a good egg: human oocyte health, aging, and in vitro development. Physiol Rev 2023; 103:2623-2677. [PMID: 37171807 PMCID: PMC10625843 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00032.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian eggs (oocytes) are formed during fetal life and establish associations with somatic cells to form primordial follicles that create a store of germ cells (the primordial pool). The size of this pool is influenced by key events during the formation of germ cells and by factors that influence the subsequent activation of follicle growth. These regulatory pathways must ensure that the reserve of oocytes within primordial follicles in humans lasts for up to 50 years, yet only approximately 0.1% will ever be ovulated with the rest undergoing degeneration. This review outlines the mechanisms and regulatory pathways that govern the processes of oocyte and follicle formation and later growth, within the ovarian stroma, through to ovulation with particular reference to human oocytes/follicles. In addition, the effects of aging on female reproductive capacity through changes in oocyte number and quality are emphasized, with both the cellular mechanisms and clinical implications discussed. Finally, the details of current developments in culture systems that support all stages of follicle growth to generate mature oocytes in vitro and emerging prospects for making new oocytes from stem cells are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn E Telfer
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Johanne Grosbois
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Yvonne L Odey
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Roseanne Rosario
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Mattioli R, Ilari A, Colotti B, Mosca L, Fazi F, Colotti G. Doxorubicin and other anthracyclines in cancers: Activity, chemoresistance and its overcoming. Mol Aspects Med 2023; 93:101205. [PMID: 37515939 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2023.101205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
Anthracyclines have been important and effective treatments against a number of cancers since their discovery. However, their use in therapy has been complicated by severe side effects and toxicity that occur during or after treatment, including cardiotoxicity. The mode of action of anthracyclines is complex, with several mechanisms proposed. It is possible that their high toxicity is due to the large set of processes involved in anthracycline action. The development of resistance is a major barrier to successful treatment when using anthracyclines. This resistance is based on a series of mechanisms that have been studied and addressed in recent years. This work provides an overview of the anthracyclines used in cancer therapy. It discusses their mechanisms of activity, toxicity, and chemoresistance, as well as the approaches used to improve their activity, decrease their toxicity, and overcome resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Mattioli
- Dept. Biochemical Sciences A. Rossi Fanelli, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Ilari
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, Italian National Research Council IBPM-CNR, Rome, Italy
| | - Beatrice Colotti
- Dept. Biochemical Sciences A. Rossi Fanelli, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Luciana Mosca
- Dept. Biochemical Sciences A. Rossi Fanelli, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Fazi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic & Orthopaedic Sciences, Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianni Colotti
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, Italian National Research Council IBPM-CNR, Rome, Italy.
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117
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Gonzalez XV, Almutlaq A, Gupta SS. Systematic review of mRNA expression in human oocytes: understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying oocyte competence. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:2283-2295. [PMID: 37558907 PMCID: PMC10504133 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02906-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The biggest cell in the human body, the oocyte, encloses almost the complete machinery to start life. Despite all the research performed to date, defining oocyte quality is still a major goal of reproductive science. It is the consensus that mature oocytes are transcriptionally silent although, during their growth, the cell goes through stages of active transcription and translation, which will endow the oocyte with the competence to undergo nuclear maturation, and the oocyte and embryo to initiate timely translation before the embryonic genome is fully activated (cytoplasmic maturation). A systematic search was conducted across three electronic databases and the literature was critically appraised using the KMET score system. The aim was to identify quantitative differences in transcriptome of human oocytes that may link to patient demographics that could affect oocyte competence. Data was analysed following the principles of thematic analysis. Differences in the transcriptome were identified with respect to age or pathological conditions and affected chromosome mis segregation, perturbations of the nuclear envelope, premature maturation, and alterations in metabolic pathways-amongst others-in human oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Viñals Gonzalez
- Institute for Women's Health, Preimplantation Genetics Group, University College London, 84-86 Chenies Mews, Bloomsbury, London, WC1E 6HU, UK.
| | - Arwa Almutlaq
- Institute for Women's Health, Preimplantation Genetics Group, University College London, 84-86 Chenies Mews, Bloomsbury, London, WC1E 6HU, UK
| | - Sioban Sen Gupta
- Institute for Women's Health, Preimplantation Genetics Group, University College London, 84-86 Chenies Mews, Bloomsbury, London, WC1E 6HU, UK
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Li Z, Liu Y, Tian Y, Li Q, Shi W, Zhang J, Zhang H, Tan Y, Yang S, Yang T, Huang X, Du Y. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell‑derived exosomes improve ovarian function in natural aging by inhibiting apoptosis. Int J Mol Med 2023; 52:94. [PMID: 37615174 PMCID: PMC10483927 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2023.5297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Prolonging the reproductive lifespan is beneficial for preserving the physical and psychological health of women. The transplantation of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)‑derived exosomes (MSC‑Exos) has been reported to be a promising regenerative therapeutic strategy for restoring the function of aging ovaries. The present study thus evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of exosomes derived from human umbilical cord‑MSCs (hUCMSC‑Exos) in a mouse model of natural ovarian aging (NOA), and further investigated the role of exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) in the mechanisms of this creative therapy. Specifically, following the administration of hUCMSC‑Exos in mice with NOA, ovarian function was found to improve, as indicated by the restoration of follicle numbers and hormone levels. These exosomes were found to exhibit the ability to inhibit PTEN expression and suppress apoptosis both in vivo and in vitro. Subsequently, miRNA sequencing of the exosomes was performed, following which bioinformatics analysis was used to identify the highly expressed miRNAs that are capable of targeting PTEN expression. Through high‑throughput sequencing and molecular analyses, miR‑21‑5p was found to be the highest in ranking in terms of expression, suggesting that hUCMSC‑Exos can preserve ovarian function by suppressing PTEN expression to inhibit apoptosis by delivering miR‑21‑5p. On the whole, the results of the present study suggest that the application of exosomes can be used to restore ovarian function in mice with NOA. These positive findings also suggest that the transplantation of exosomes derived from MSCs holds promise as an agent against ovarian aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongkang Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000
| | - Yibin Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000
| | - Yanpeng Tian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000
| | - Wenxin Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000
| | - Jingkun Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000
| | - Huihui Zhang
- R&D Department, Shandong Qilu Cell Therapy Engineering Technology Co., Ltd
| | - Yi Tan
- R&D Department, Shandong Qilu Cell Therapy Engineering Technology Co., Ltd
- Institute of Immunotherapy, Shandong Yinfeng Life Science Research Institute, Jinan, Shandong 25000
| | - Shuangshuang Yang
- R&D Department, Shandong Qilu Cell Therapy Engineering Technology Co., Ltd
| | - Tao Yang
- Department of Surgery, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Xianghua Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000
| | - Yanfang Du
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000
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Piau TB, de Queiroz Rodrigues A, Paulini F. Insulin-like growth factor (IGF) performance in ovarian function and applications in reproductive biotechnologies. Growth Horm IGF Res 2023; 72-73:101561. [PMID: 38070331 DOI: 10.1016/j.ghir.2023.101561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
The role of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system has attracted close attention. The activity of IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs) within the ovary has not been fully elucidated to date. These proteins bind to IGF with an equal, or greater, affinity than to the IGF1 receptor, thus being in the main position to regulate IGF signalling, in addition to extending the half-life of IGFs within the bloodstream and promoting IGF storage in specific tissue niches. IGF1 has an important part in cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. Considering the importance of IGFs in oocyte maturation, this review sought to elucidate aspects including: IGF production mechanisms; constituent members of their family and their respective functions; the role that these factors play during folliculogenesis, together with their functions during oocyte maturation and apoptosis, and their performance during luteal development. This review also explores the role of IGFs in biotechnological applications, focusing specifically on animal genetic gain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tathyana Benetis Piau
- University of Brasília, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiological Sciences, Brasília, DF 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Aline de Queiroz Rodrigues
- University of Brasília, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiological Sciences, Brasília, DF 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Paulini
- University of Brasília, Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiological Sciences, Brasília, DF 70910-900, Brazil.
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Bernstein LR, Mackenzie ACL, Durkin K, Kraemer DC, Chaffin CL, Merchenthaler I. Maternal age and gonadotrophin elevation cooperatively decrease viable ovulated oocytes and increase ootoxicity, chromosome-, and spindle-misalignments: '2-Hit' and 'FSH-OoToxicity' mechanisms as new reproductive aging hypotheses. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad030. [PMID: 37643633 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
While there is consensus that advanced maternal age (AMA) reduces oocyte yield and quality, the notion that high FSH reduces oocyte quality and causes aneuploidy remains controversial, perhaps due to difficulties controlling the confounding variables of age and FSH levels. Here, contributions of age and gonadotrophin elevation were separately controlled using a mouse model of human female reproductive aging. Ovulated oocytes were collected from young and midlife mice after 0-, 2.6-, or 17-day treatment with the FSH analog equine chorionic gonadotrophin (eCG), to model both exogenous FSH elevation within a single treatment cycle (as in controlled ovarian stimulation (COS)), and chronic endogenous FSH elevation during multiple cycles (as in diminished ovarian reserve). After 17-day eCG, fewer total oocytes/mouse are ovulated in midlife than young mice, and a precipitous decline in viable oocytes/mouse is observed in midlife but not young mice throughout eCG treatment. eCG is potently ootoxic to ovulatory oocytes and strongly induces chromosome- and spindle-misalignments within 2.6 days of eCG in midlife, but only after 17 days in young mice. These data indicate that AMA increases susceptibility to multiple adverse effects of elevated FSH activity in ovulated oocytes, including declines in total and viable oocytes/mouse, and induction of ootoxicity and aneuploidy. Two hypotheses are proposed for underlying causes of infertility in women. The FSH OOToxicity Hypothesis ('FOOT Hypothesis') posits that high FSH is ootoxic to ovulatory oocytes and that FSH ootoxicity is a root cause of low pregnancy success rates in naturally cycling women with high FSH and IUI patients undergoing COS. The '2-Hit Hypothesis' posits that AMA increases susceptibility to FSH-induced ootoxicity and aneuploidy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori R Bernstein
- Pregmama LLC, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Texas A & M School of Medicine, College Station, TX, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Amelia C L Mackenzie
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Keith Durkin
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Duane C Kraemer
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A & M College of Veterinary Medicine, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Charles L Chaffin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Istvan Merchenthaler
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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121
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Chen Y, Miao C, Zhao Y, Yang L, Wang R, Shen D, Ren N, Zhang Q. Inflammasomes in human reproductive diseases. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad035. [PMID: 37788097 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammasomes are multi-protein complexes localized within immune and non-immune cells that induce caspase activation, proinflammatory cytokine secretion, and ultimately pyroptosis-a type of cell death. Inflammasomes are involved in a variety of human diseases, especially acute or chronic inflammatory diseases. In this review, we focused on the strong correlation between the NLRP3 inflammasome and various reproductive diseases, including ovarian aging or premature ovarian insufficiency, PCOS, endometriosis, recurrent spontaneous abortion, preterm labor, pre-eclampsia, and male subfertility, as well as the multifaceted role of NLRP3 in the pathogenesis and treatment of these diseases. In addition, we provide an overview of the structure and amplification of inflammasomes. This comprehensive review demonstrates the vital role of NLRP3 inflammasome activation in human reproductive diseases together with the underlying mechanisms, offers new insights for mechanistic studies of reproduction, and provides promising possibilities for the development of drugs targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome for the treatment of reproductive disorders in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Chen
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chenyun Miao
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ying Zhao
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liuqing Yang
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ruye Wang
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dan Shen
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ning Ren
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qin Zhang
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
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122
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Chang CL. Facilitation of Ovarian Response by Mechanical Force-Latest Insight on Fertility Improvement in Women with Poor Ovarian Response or Primary Ovarian Insufficiency. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14751. [PMID: 37834198 PMCID: PMC10573075 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The decline in fertility in aging women, especially those with poor ovarian response (POR) or primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), is a major concern for modern IVF centers. Fertility treatments have traditionally relied on gonadotropin- and steroid-hormone-based IVF practices, but these methods have limitations, especially for women with aging ovaries. Researchers have been motivated to explore alternative approaches. Ovarian aging is a complicated process, and the deterioration of oocytes, follicular cells, the extracellular matrix (ECM), and the stromal compartment can all contribute to declining fertility. Adjunct interventions that involve the use of hormones, steroids, and cofactors and gamete engineering are two major research areas aimed to improve fertility in aging women. Additionally, mechanical procedures including the In Vitro Activation (IVA) procedure, which combines pharmacological activators and fragmentation of ovarian strips, and the Whole Ovary Laparoscopic Incision (WOLI) procedure that solely relies on mechanical manipulation in vivo have shown promising results in improving follicle growth and fertility in women with POR and POI. Advances in the use of mechanical procedures have brought exciting opportunities to improve fertility outcomes in aging women with POR or POI. While the lack of a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms that lead to fertility decline in aging women remains a major challenge for further improvement of mechanical-manipulation-based approaches, recent progress has provided a better view of how these procedures promote folliculogenesis in the fibrotic and avascular aging ovaries. In this review, we first provide a brief overview of the potential mechanisms that contribute to ovarian aging in POI and POR patients, followed by a discussion of measures that aim to improve ovarian folliculogenesis in aging women. At last, we discuss the likely mechanisms that contribute to the outcomes of IVA and WOLI procedures and potential future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia Lin Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung University, Guishan, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
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123
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Mo L, Ma J, Xiong Y, Xiong X, Lan D, Li J, Yin S. Factors Influencing the Maturation and Developmental Competence of Yak ( Bos grunniens) Oocytes In Vitro. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1882. [PMID: 37895231 PMCID: PMC10606142 DOI: 10.3390/genes14101882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The yak (Bos grunniens) is a unique breed living on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and its surrounding areas, providing locals with a variety of vital means of living and production. However, the yak has poor sexual maturity and low fertility. High-quality mature oocytes are the basis of animal breeding technology. Recently, in vitro culturing of oocytes and embryo engineering technology have been applied to yak breeding. However, compared to those observed in vivo, the maturation rate and developmental capacity of in vitro oocytes are still low, which severely limits the application of in vitro fertilization and embryo production in yaks. This review summarizes the endogenous and exogenous factors affecting the in vitro maturation (IVM) and developmental ability of yak oocytes reported in recent years and provides a theoretical basis for obtaining high-quality oocytes for in vitro fertilization and embryo production in yaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luoyu Mo
- College of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China; (L.M.); (J.M.); (Y.X.); (X.X.); (D.L.); (J.L.)
| | - Jun Ma
- College of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China; (L.M.); (J.M.); (Y.X.); (X.X.); (D.L.); (J.L.)
| | - Yan Xiong
- College of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China; (L.M.); (J.M.); (Y.X.); (X.X.); (D.L.); (J.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization, Ministry of Education, Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Science of National Ethnic Affairs Commission of China, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xianrong Xiong
- College of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China; (L.M.); (J.M.); (Y.X.); (X.X.); (D.L.); (J.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization, Ministry of Education, Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Science of National Ethnic Affairs Commission of China, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Daoliang Lan
- College of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China; (L.M.); (J.M.); (Y.X.); (X.X.); (D.L.); (J.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization, Ministry of Education, Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Science of National Ethnic Affairs Commission of China, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jian Li
- College of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China; (L.M.); (J.M.); (Y.X.); (X.X.); (D.L.); (J.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization, Ministry of Education, Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Science of National Ethnic Affairs Commission of China, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Shi Yin
- College of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China; (L.M.); (J.M.); (Y.X.); (X.X.); (D.L.); (J.L.)
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization, Ministry of Education, Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Science of National Ethnic Affairs Commission of China, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
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Luca E, Zitzmann K, Bornstein S, Kugelmeier P, Beuschlein F, Nölting S, Hantel C. Three Dimensional Models of Endocrine Organs and Target Tissues Regulated by the Endocrine System. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4601. [PMID: 37760571 PMCID: PMC10526768 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15184601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Immortalized cell lines originating from tumors and cultured in monolayers in vitro display consistent behavior and response, and generate reproducible results across laboratories. However, for certain endpoints, these cell lines behave quite differently from the original solid tumors. Thereby, the homogeneity of immortalized cell lines and two-dimensionality of monolayer cultures deters from the development of new therapies and translatability of results to the more complex situation in vivo. Organoids originating from tissue biopsies and spheroids from cell lines mimic the heterogeneous and multidimensional characteristics of tumor cells in 3D structures in vitro. Thus, they have the advantage of recapitulating the more complex tissue architecture of solid tumors. In this review, we discuss recent efforts in basic and preclinical cancer research to establish methods to generate organoids/spheroids and living biobanks from endocrine tissues and target organs under endocrine control while striving to achieve solutions in personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edlira Luca
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Clinical Nutrition, University Hospital Zurich (USZ) and University of Zurich (UZH), 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Kathrin Zitzmann
- Department of Medicine IV, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 80336 München, Germany
| | - Stefan Bornstein
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Clinical Nutrition, University Hospital Zurich (USZ) and University of Zurich (UZH), 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | | | - Felix Beuschlein
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Clinical Nutrition, University Hospital Zurich (USZ) and University of Zurich (UZH), 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
- Endocrine Research Unit, Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, 80336 Munich, Germany
| | - Svenja Nölting
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Clinical Nutrition, University Hospital Zurich (USZ) and University of Zurich (UZH), 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Medicine IV, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 80336 München, Germany
| | - Constanze Hantel
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Clinical Nutrition, University Hospital Zurich (USZ) and University of Zurich (UZH), 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany
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125
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Stewart S, Ou W, Aranda-Espinoza H, Rahaman SO, He X. Micromechanical characterizations and viscoelastic modeling reveal elastic and viscoelastic heterogeneities in ovarian tissue and the significant viscoelastic contribution to the apparent elastic modulus determined by AFM indentation. Acta Biomater 2023; 168:286-297. [PMID: 37451661 PMCID: PMC10529990 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian follicles develop in a highly regulated mechanical microenvironment and disruptions to the microenvironment may cause infertility. However, the viscoelastic properties of the ovarian tissue are not well studied. Here, we characterize both the elastic and viscoelastic properties of ovarian tissue from both reproductively older and younger domestic cats using atomic force microscopy (AFM) indentation and viscoelastic models of stress relaxation. Importantly, our analyses reveal the apparent elastic modulus obtained from the conventional AFM indentation measurement is significantly higher than the intrinsic elastic modulus and insignificantly different from the equivalent elastic modulus that is the summation of the intrinsic elastic modulus and the viscoelastic contribution to modulus at time 0. Interestingly, the ovarian cortex of both reproductive age groups has a higher apparent/intrinsic modulus than that of the medulla. Furthermore, two different kinetics of stress relaxation are identified with rate constants of ∼1 s and ∼20-40 s, respectively. Moreover, the rate constant of the slow kinetics is significantly different between the cortex and medulla in the reproductively older ovaries. Finally, these mechanical heterogeneities appear to follow the heterogeneous distribution of hyaluronic acid (HA) in the ovary. These findings may be invaluable to the development of biomimetic follicle culture for treating infertility. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: This study investigates not only elastic but also the viscoelastic heterogeneity in both reproductively younger and older ovarian tissues for the first time. Further, by combining AFM indentation measurement and viscoelastic modeling, we show the apparent elastic modulus conventionally reported in the literature for AFM indentation measurement is the summation of the intrinsic elastic modulus and a significant viscoelastic contribution to the modulus at time 0. This is an important consideration for others who use this method to quantify biomaterial properties. In addition, the possible connection between the mechanical and compositional heterogeneities is explored. These findings may be invaluable for designing biomaterials to recapitulate the mechanical environment of the ovary and possibly many other organs for biomimetic tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Stewart
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States
| | - Wenquan Ou
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States
| | - Helim Aranda-Espinoza
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States
| | - Shaik O Rahaman
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States
| | - Xiaoming He
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States.
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126
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Devos M, Dias Nunes J, Donfack Jiatsa N, Demeestere I. Regulation of follicular activation signaling pathways by in vitro inhibition of YAP/TAZ activity in mouse ovaries. Sci Rep 2023; 13:15346. [PMID: 37714905 PMCID: PMC10504383 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41954-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The Hippo pathway plays a crucial role in the regulation of follicular activation, which constitutes the first step of the folliculogenesis process. Disruption of this pathway occurs in several non-physiological contexts, after fragmentation for ovarian tissue cryopreservation procedures or chemotherapy exposure, leading to massive follicular growth and depletion. This study aimed to investigate the effect of controlling the Hippo pathway using verteporfin (VERT) during in vitro ovarian culture and to evaluate its potential preventive effects on chemotherapy-induced follicle activation using a mouse model. After exposure of cut ovaries to different concentrations of VERT for 3 h, a dose-dependent effect of VERT was observed that reached significant inhibition of YAP activity at 3 µmol/L. To assess the potential effect of controlling chemotherapy-induced Hippo pathway disruption, whole mouse ovaries were exposed to VERT alone or as a co-treatment with 4-hydroperoxycylophosphamide (4HC). VERT co-treatment prevented chemotherapy-induced YAP activation but had a limited impact on downstream effector gene, Ccn2. Surprisingly, VERT co-treatment also prevented mTOR and survival signaling pathway alterations following chemotherapy exposure. These results suggest an interaction between the two main signaling pathways regulating follicle activation and a protective effect of VERT on 4HC-induced DNA damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melody Devos
- Research Laboratory on Human Reproduction, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Campus Erasme CP636, Route de Lennik 808, 1070, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Joana Dias Nunes
- Research Laboratory on Human Reproduction, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Campus Erasme CP636, Route de Lennik 808, 1070, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nathalie Donfack Jiatsa
- Research Laboratory on Human Reproduction, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Campus Erasme CP636, Route de Lennik 808, 1070, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Isabelle Demeestere
- Research Laboratory on Human Reproduction, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Campus Erasme CP636, Route de Lennik 808, 1070, Brussels, Belgium.
- Fertility Clinic, HUB-Erasme Hospital, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Route de Lennik 808, 1070, Brussels, Belgium.
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Orsini F, D’Ambrosio F, Scardigno A, Ricciardi R, Calabrò GE. Epidemiological Impact of Metabolic Syndrome in Overweight and Obese European Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Literature Review. Nutrients 2023; 15:3895. [PMID: 37764679 PMCID: PMC10536523 DOI: 10.3390/nu15183895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of overweight and obesity is continuously increasing, both in the adult and pediatric populations, posing a substantial challenge to public health. Understanding the epidemiological burden of metabolic syndrome (MetS) among children, particularly regarding its complications and long-term effects in adulthood, is crucial for identifying effective preventive measures and enhancing the clinical care of obese children. Therefore, by searching two databases, a systematic review was conducted in order to evaluate studies that specifically addressed the epidemiological MetS impact among overweight/obese European children and adolescents. Overall, 15 studies were considered. The epidemiological data concerning the MetS impact were contingent on the diagnostic criteria used and varied across countries, resulting in a prevalence range of 1.44% to 55.8%. Spanish studies were the most numerous (34%), revealing a country prevalence rate ranging from 2.5% to 19.6%. Males (prevalence range: 1.4-55.8%) and subjects with overweight/obesity (prevalence range: 12.9-55.8%) were mainly affected. Obesity emerged as the main risk factor in the MetS development and the consequent onset of cardiovascular complications and diabetes. Knowing the MetS burden and its risk factors could improve their prevention, detection, and treatment, and guide the development of targeted public health interventions to appropriately address the health needs of younger patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Orsini
- Laboratory of Pharmacoepidemiology and Human Nutrition, Department of Health Policy, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, 20156 Milan, Italy;
| | - Floriana D’Ambrosio
- Section of Hygiene, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, L.go F. Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy; (A.S.); (G.E.C.)
| | - Anna Scardigno
- Section of Hygiene, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, L.go F. Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy; (A.S.); (G.E.C.)
| | - Roberto Ricciardi
- VIHTALI (Value in Health Technology and Academy for Leadership & Innovation), Spin-Off of Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy;
| | - Giovanna Elisa Calabrò
- Section of Hygiene, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, L.go F. Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy; (A.S.); (G.E.C.)
- VIHTALI (Value in Health Technology and Academy for Leadership & Innovation), Spin-Off of Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy;
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Cimadomo D, Rienzi L, Conforti A, Forman E, Canosa S, Innocenti F, Poli M, Hynes J, Gemmell L, Vaiarelli A, Alviggi C, Ubaldi FM, Capalbo A. Opening the black box: why do euploid blastocysts fail to implant? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:570-633. [PMID: 37192834 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A normal chromosomal constitution defined through PGT-A assessing all chromosomes on trophectoderm (TE) biopsies represents the strongest predictor of embryo implantation. Yet, its positive predictive value is not higher than 50-60%. This gap of knowledge on the causes of euploid blastocysts' reproductive failure is known as 'the black box of implantation'. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Several embryonic, maternal, paternal, clinical, and IVF laboratory features were scrutinized for their putative association with reproductive success or implantation failure of euploid blastocysts. SEARCH METHODS A systematic bibliographical search was conducted without temporal limits up to August 2021. The keywords were '(blastocyst OR day5 embryo OR day6 embryo OR day7 embryo) AND (euploid OR chromosomally normal OR preimplantation genetic testing) AND (implantation OR implantation failure OR miscarriage OR abortion OR live birth OR biochemical pregnancy OR recurrent implantation failure)'. Overall, 1608 items were identified and screened. We included all prospective or retrospective clinical studies and randomized-controlled-trials (RCTs) that assessed any feature associated with live-birth rates (LBR) and/or miscarriage rates (MR) among non-mosaic euploid blastocyst transfer after TE biopsy and PGT-A. In total, 41 reviews and 372 papers were selected, clustered according to a common focus, and thoroughly reviewed. The PRISMA guideline was followed, the PICO model was adopted, and ROBINS-I and ROB 2.0 scoring were used to assess putative bias. Bias across studies regarding the LBR was also assessed using visual inspection of funnel plots and the trim and fill method. Categorical data were combined with a pooled-OR. The random-effect model was used to conduct the meta-analysis. Between-study heterogeneity was addressed using I2. Whenever not suitable for the meta-analysis, the included studies were simply described for their results. The study protocol was registered at http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/ (registration number CRD42021275329). OUTCOMES We included 372 original papers (335 retrospective studies, 30 prospective studies and 7 RCTs) and 41 reviews. However, most of the studies were retrospective, or characterized by small sample sizes, thus prone to bias, which reduces the quality of the evidence to low or very low. Reduced inner cell mass (7 studies, OR: 0.37, 95% CI: 0.27-0.52, I2 = 53%), or TE quality (9 studies, OR: 0.53, 95% CI: 0.43-0.67, I2 = 70%), overall blastocyst quality worse than Gardner's BB-grade (8 studies, OR: 0.40, 95% CI: 0.24-0.67, I2 = 83%), developmental delay (18 studies, OR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.49-0.63, I2 = 47%), and (by qualitative analysis) some morphodynamic abnormalities pinpointed through time-lapse microscopy (abnormal cleavage patterns, spontaneous blastocyst collapse, longer time of morula formation I, time of blastulation (tB), and duration of blastulation) were all associated with poorer reproductive outcomes. Slightly lower LBR, even in the context of PGT-A, was reported among women ≥38 years (7 studies, OR: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.75-1.00, I2 = 31%), while obesity was associated with both lower LBR (2 studies, OR: 0.66, 95% CI: 0.55-0.79, I2 = 0%) and higher MR (2 studies, OR: 1.8, 95% CI: 1.08-2.99, I2 = 52%). The experience of previous repeated implantation failures (RIF) was also associated with lower LBR (3 studies, OR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.55-0.93, I2 = 0%). By qualitative analysis, among hormonal assessments, only abnormal progesterone levels prior to transfer were associated with LBR and MR after PGT-A. Among the clinical protocols used, vitrified-warmed embryo transfer was more effective than fresh transfer (2 studies, OR: 1.56, 95% CI: 1.05-2.33, I2 = 23%) after PGT-A. Lastly, multiple vitrification-warming cycles (2 studies, OR: 0.41, 95% CI: 0.22-0.77, I2 = 50%) or (by qualitative analysis) a high number of cells biopsied may slightly reduce the LBR, while simultaneous zona-pellucida opening and TE biopsy allowed better results than the Day 3 hatching-based protocol (3 studies, OR: 1.41, 95% CI: 1.18-1.69, I2 = 0%). WIDER IMPLICATIONS Embryo selection aims at shortening the time-to-pregnancy, while minimizing the reproductive risks. Knowing which features are associated with the reproductive competence of euploid blastocysts is therefore critical to define, implement, and validate safer and more efficient clinical workflows. Future research should be directed towards: (i) systematic investigations of the mechanisms involved in reproductive aging beyond de novo chromosomal abnormalities, and how lifestyle and nutrition may accelerate or exacerbate their consequences; (ii) improved evaluation of the uterine and blastocyst-endometrial dialogue, both of which represent black boxes themselves; (iii) standardization/automation of embryo assessment and IVF protocols; (iv) additional invasive or preferably non-invasive tools for embryo selection. Only by filling these gaps we may finally crack the riddle behind 'the black box of implantation'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danilo Cimadomo
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Rienzi
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino, Italy
| | - Alessandro Conforti
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Eric Forman
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Irving Medical Centre, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Federica Innocenti
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Poli
- Centrum voor Kinderwens, Dijklander Hospital, Purmerend, The Netherlands
- Juno Genetics, Rome, Italy
| | - Jenna Hynes
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Irving Medical Centre, New York, NY, USA
| | - Laura Gemmell
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Irving Medical Centre, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alberto Vaiarelli
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Alviggi
- Department of Public Health, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
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Wu M, Xue L, Chen Y, Tang W, Guo Y, Xiong J, Chen D, Zhu Q, Fu F, Wang S. Inhibition of checkpoint kinase prevents human oocyte apoptosis induced by chemotherapy and allows enhanced tumour chemotherapeutic efficacy. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:1769-1783. [PMID: 37451671 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Could inhibition of the checkpoint kinase (CHEK) pathway protect human oocytes and even enhance the anti-tumour effects, during chemotherapy? SUMMARY ANSWER CHEK inhibitors prevented apoptosis of human oocytes induced by chemotherapy and even enhanced the anti-tumour effects. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY CHEK inhibitors showed ovarian protective effects in mice during chemotherapy, while their role in human oocytes is unclear. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This experimental study evaluated the ovarian reserve of young patients (120 patients) with cancer, exposed or not exposed to taxane and platinum (TP)-combined chemotherapy. Single RNA-sequencing analysis of human primordial oocytes from 10 patients was performed to explore the mechanism of oocyte apoptosis induced by TP chemotherapy. The damaging effects of paclitaxel (PTX) and cisplatin on human oocytes were also evaluated by culturing human ovaries in vitro. A new mouse model that combines human ovarian xenotransplantation and patient-derived tumour xenografts was developed to explore adjuvant therapies for ovarian protection. The mice were randomly allocated to four groups (10 mice for each group): control, cisplatin, cisplatin + CK1 (CHEK1 inhibitor, SCH 900776), and cisplatin + CK2 (CHEK2 inhibitor, BML277). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS In the prospective cohort study, human ovarian follicles were counted and serum AMH levels were evaluated. RNA-sequencing analysis was conducted, and staining for follicular damage (phosphorylated H2AX histone; γH2AX), terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labelling (TUNEL) assays and assessments of apoptotic biomarkers (western blot and immunofluorescence) were conducted in human ovaries. After the treatments, histological analysis was performed on human ovarian samples to investigate follicular populations, and oocyte damage was measured by γH2AX staining, BAX staining, and TUNEL assays. At the same time, the tumours were evaluated for volume, weight, and apoptosis levels. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Patients who received TP chemotherapy showed decreased ovarian reserves. Single RNA-sequencing analysis of human primordial oocytes indicated that TP chemotherapy induced apoptosis of human primordial oocytes by causing CHEK-mediated TAp63α phosphorylation. In vitro culture of human ovaries showed greater damaging effects on oocytes after cisplatin treatment compared with that after PTX treatment. Using the new animal model, CHEK1/2 inhibitors prevented the apoptosis of human oocytes induced by cisplatin and even enhanced its anti-tumour effects. This protective effect appeared to be mediated by inhibiting DNA damage via the CHEK-TAp63α pathway and by generation of anti-apoptotic signals in the oocytes. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This was a preclinical study performed with human ovarian samples, and clinical research is required for validation. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of CHEK1/2 inhibitors as a complementary strategy for preserving fertility in female cancer patients. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (nos. 82001514 and 81902669) and the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (2021yjsCXCY087). The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Liru Xue
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Weicheng Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Yican Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiaqiang Xiong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Dan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Qingqing Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Fangfang Fu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
| | - Shixuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, China
- Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Wuhan, China
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Karavani G, Vedder K, Gutman-Ido E, Gruda Sussman R, Goldschmidt N, Mordechai-Daniel T, Ben-Meir A, Imbar T. Prior exposure to chemotherapy does not reduce the in vitro maturation potential of oocytes obtained from ovarian cortex in cancer patients. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:1705-1713. [PMID: 37414543 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does chemotherapy exposure affect IVM potential of immature oocytes retrieved from the ovarian cortex following ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) for fertility preservation? SUMMARY ANSWER The IVM potential of oocyte retrieved from ovarian cortex following OTC is not affected by prior exposure to chemotherapy but primarily dependent on patient's age, while successful retrieval of immature oocytes from the ovarian tissue is negatively affected by chemotherapy and its timing. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The potential and feasibility of IVM in premenarche patients was previously demonstrated, in smaller studies. The scarce data that exist on the IVM potential of oocytes retrieved during OTC following chemotherapy support the feasibility of this process, however, this was not previously shown in the premenarche cancer patients population or in larger cohorts. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A retrospective cohort study evaluating 229 cancer patients aged 1-39 years with attempted retrieval of oocytes from the ovarian tissue and the medium following OTC in a university affiliated fertility preservation unit between 2002 and 2021. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS A total of 172 chemotherapy naïve and 57 chemotherapy exposed patients aged 1-39 years underwent OTC in university affiliated tertiary infertility and IVF center. OTC and IVM outcomes were compared between the chemotherapy naïve and exposed groups. The main outcome measure was mean IVM rate per patient in the chemotherapy naïve and exposed groups, with subgroup analysis of a 1:1 chemotherapy exposed group matched for age at OTC and type of malignancy. We additionally analyzed premenarche and postmenarche patients' outcomes separately and investigated the effect of time from chemotherapy to IVM, malignancy type and chemotherapy regimen on oocyte number and IVM outcomes in the chemotherapy exposed group. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE While the number of retrieved oocytes and percentage of patients with at least one oocyte retrieved was higher in the chemotherapy naïve group (8.7 ± 7.9 versus 4.9 ± 5.6 oocytes and 87.2% versus 73.7%, P < 0.001 and P = 0.016, respectively), IVM rate and number of mature oocytes were comparable between the groups (29.0 ± 25.0% versus 28. 9 ± 29.2% and 2.8 ± 3.1 versus 2.2 ± 2.8, P = 0.979 and P = 0.203, respectively). Similar findings were shown in subgroup analyses for premenarche and postmenarche groups. The only parameter found to be independently associated with IVM rate in a multivariable model was menarche status (F = 8.91, P = 0.004). Logistic regression models similarly showed that past chemotherapy exposure is negatively associated with successful retrieval of oocytes while older age and menarche are predictive of successful IVM. An age and the type of malignancy matched (1:1) chemotherapy naïve and exposed groups were created (25 patients in each group). This comparison demonstrated similar IVM rate (35.4 ± 30.1% versus 31.0 ± 25.2%, P = 0.533) and number of matured oocytes (2.7 ± 3.0. versus 3.0 ± 3.9 oocytes, P = 0.772). Type of malignancy and chemotherapy regimen including alkylating agents were not associated with IVM rate. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study's inherited retrospective design and the long study period carries the possible technological advancement and differences. The chemotherapy exposed group was relatively small and included different age groups. We could only evaluate the potential of the oocytes to reach metaphase II in vitro but not their fertilization potential or clinical outcomes. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS IVM is feasible even after chemotherapy broadening the fertility preservation options of cancer patients. The use of IVM for fertility preservation, even after exposure to chemotherapy, should be further studied for optimal postchemotherapy timing safety and for the in vitro matured oocytes potential for fertilization. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) No funding was received for this study by any of the authors. The authors report that no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilad Karavani
- In-Vitro Fertilization Unit, Hadassah Ein-Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Ein-Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Koral Vedder
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Einat Gutman-Ido
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Ein-Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Raizl Gruda Sussman
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, Department of Paediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Neta Goldschmidt
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Hematology, Hadassah Ein-Kerem Medical Center, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Talya Mordechai-Daniel
- In-Vitro Fertilization Unit, Hadassah Ein-Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Ein-Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Assaf Ben-Meir
- In-Vitro Fertilization Unit, Hadassah Ein-Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Ein-Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Tal Imbar
- In-Vitro Fertilization Unit, Hadassah Ein-Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Ein-Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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Mincheva M, Fraire-Zamora JJ, Liperis G, Ammar OF, Duffin K, Kanbar M, Mitchell RT, Moura-Ramos M, Massarotti C. Going back to the start: do cancer and haematological disorders affect germ cells in prepubertal boys? Hum Reprod 2023; 38:1856-1860. [PMID: 37328443 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - George Liperis
- Westmead Fertility Centre, Institute of Reproductive Medicine, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Omar F Ammar
- Biomaterials Cluster, Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- School of Engineering, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | | | - Marc Kanbar
- Andrology Lab, Pôle de recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction (REPR), Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Rod T Mitchell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Mariana Moura-Ramos
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive Behavioral Intervention, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Claudia Massarotti
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, DINOGMI Department, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
- Physiopathology of Human Reproduction Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
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Pawłowski P, Ziętara KJ, Michalczyk J, Fryze M, Buchacz A, Zaucha-Prażmo A, Zawitkowska J, Torres A, Samardakiewicz M. Fertility Preservation in Children and Adolescents during Oncological Treatment-A Review of Healthcare System Factors and Attitudes of Patients and Their Caregivers. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4393. [PMID: 37686669 PMCID: PMC10487203 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15174393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Oncofertility is any therapeutic intervention to safeguard the fertility of cancer patients. Anti-cancer therapies (chemotherapy, radiation therapy, etc.) entail the risk of reproductive disorders through cytotoxic effects on gamete-building cells, especially those not yet fully developed. This literature review analyzes the available data on securing fertility in pediatric and adolescent populations to identify the methods used and describe aspects related to financing, ethics, and the perspective of patients and their parents. Topics related to oncofertility in this age group are relatively niche, with few peer-reviewed articles available and published studies mostly on adults. Compared to pubertal individuals, a limited number of fertility preservation methods are used for prepubertal patients. Funding for the procedures described varies from country to country, but only a few governments choose to reimburse them. Oncofertility of pediatric and adolescent patients raises many controversies related to the decision, parents' beliefs, having a partner, ethics, as well as the knowledge and experience of healthcare professionals. As the fertility of young cancer patients is at risk, healthcare professionals should make every effort to provide them with an opportunity to fulfill their future reproductive plans and to have a family and offspring. Systemic solutions should form the basis for the development of oncofertility in pediatric and adolescent populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Pawłowski
- Student Scientific Association at the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (P.P.); (J.M.)
| | - Karolina Joanna Ziętara
- Student Scientific Association at the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (P.P.); (J.M.)
| | - Justyna Michalczyk
- Student Scientific Association at the Department of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (P.P.); (J.M.)
| | - Magdalena Fryze
- Department of Psychology, Psychosocial Aspects of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (M.F.); (M.S.)
| | - Anna Buchacz
- Youth Cancer Europe, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Agnieszka Zaucha-Prażmo
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.Z.-P.); (J.Z.)
| | - Joanna Zawitkowska
- Department of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Transplantology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.Z.-P.); (J.Z.)
| | - Anna Torres
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Marzena Samardakiewicz
- Department of Psychology, Psychosocial Aspects of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (M.F.); (M.S.)
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Wu L, Liu D, Fang X, Zhang Y, Guo N, Lu F, Kwak-Kim J, Wang Y. Increased serum IL-12 levels are associated with adverse IVF outcomes. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 159:103990. [PMID: 37451158 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.103990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Interleukin-12 (IL-12) is involved in the occurrence and development of many diseases, such as preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, preterm labor, and recurrent pregnancy losses. This study aimed to determine whether a high serum level of IL-12 was associated with adverse in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes. Included infertile women with high serum IL-12 levels who underwent IVF cycles and infertile controls with pure tubal etiology. The impact of serum IL-12 on baseline and clinical characteristics, immune-related indicators, IVF laboratory, and pregnancy outcomes were compared. In addition, the correlation of follicular fluid IL-12 and serum IL-12 level and the role of IL-12 in apoptosis of granulosa cells (GCs) was investigated. Women with high serum IL-12 levels had lower numbers of retrieved oocytes, embryos, perfect and available embryos, lower rates of perfect and available embryos, and blastocyst formation. Additionally, significantly higher levels of serum Th1, Th2, and Th17-related cytokines were observed in women with high serum IL-12 levels than in the controls. Meanwhile, the follicular fluid IL-12 levels were positively correlated with serum IL-12 levels, and IL-12 promoted apoptosis of GCs in vitro. We concluded that women with serum high IL-12 levels may have adverse IVF outcomes, partly by promoting apoptosis of GCs. Therefore, early screening for cytokines, especially IL-12, and appropriate consultation for couples receiving IVF-ET should be considered. In addition, specific immune and inflammatory mechanisms associated with high serum IL-12 levels should be further explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wu
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Dongyan Liu
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Xuhui Fang
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Nan Guo
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Fangting Lu
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Joanne Kwak-Kim
- Reproductive Medicine and Immunology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Sciences Department, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, Vernon Hills, IL 60061, USA; Center for Cancer Cell Biology, Immunology and Infection Diseases, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL 60064, USA.
| | - Yanshi Wang
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We reviewed the most recent developments including the safety and effectiveness data and success rates in individualized ovarian stimulation protocols for adult and postpubertal females with cancer. RECENT FINDINGS In women with breast cancer, aromatase inhibitor- and tamoxifen-supplemented stimulation protocols increase the margin of safety by limiting estrogen exposure. The outcomes of ovarian stimulation appear similar between cancer and noncancer populations, even with the recently developed random-start protocols, which allow initiation of ovarian stimulation anytime during the menstrual cycle. Based on lower anti-Mullerian hormone levels and primordial follicle density, carriers of BRCA pathogenic variants ( BRCApv ) have decreased ovarian reserve in comparison to women without those variants and may lose larger portion of their ovarian reserve post chemotherapy. Oocyte cryopreservation is also emerging as a suitable fertility preservation approach for selected postpubertal girls as young as 12 years of age. SUMMARY Individualized ovarian stimulation approaches combined with improvements in cryopreservation techniques increased the success and safety margin to preserve fertility with oocyte freezing. Women with BRCApv , on the other hand, may be at disadvantage as they have lower ovarian reserve and may lose larger portion of their ovarian reserve post chemotherapy compared to women who do not carry these variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kutluk H Oktay
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- Innovation Institute for Fertility Preservation, New York and CT, USA
| | - Volkan Turan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul Health and Technology University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
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135
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Song Z, Song K, Zhao H, He Y, Hu J. Network analysis and experimental approach to investigate the potential therapeutic mechanism of zishen yutai pills on premature ovarian insufficiency. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20025. [PMID: 37809603 PMCID: PMC10559743 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background As society continues to develop, women are more at risk of gonadotoxic substance exposure. Consequently, the incidence of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) has increased significantly in the past decades. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is recommended as the standard treatment to relieve hypoestrogenic symptoms; however, its potential side effects and contraindications have drawn widespread controversy and concern. As such, the Chinese medicine Zishen Yutai Pill (ZSYTP) commonly used for treating miscarriage and menoxenia, is a highly promising alternative drug candidate against POI, however its therapeutic mechanism has not been completely elucidated. Objective To systematically analyze the potential therapeutic targets of ZSYTP on POI, we combined network pharmacology analysis and molecular docking to predict critical target genes, with experimental validation on POI murine models. Methods The active compounds of ZSYTP were collected from three online databases, and the candidate targets were predicted based on the chemical structure. The POI-related targets were obtained from four databases. A PPI network was constructed to find the key target genes between ZSYTP and POI, while GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were employed to study the mechanism of ZSYTP against POI. The binding capability of the key co-targets with active components was examined by molecular docking. We used a cyclophosphamide (CTX)-inducible POI mouse model to verify our predictions by histopathological observation, immunohistochemical staining (caspase-3, TUNEL assay), hormone determination (FSH, AMH) and ribonucleic acid sequencing (RNA Seq). Progynova was also used to study the difference between ZSYTP and HRT. Result We identified 21 target genes as the hub between ZSYTP and POI. The GO and KEGG analyses revealed that the molecular mechanism of ZSYTP against POI were mainly based on the regulation of gene and protein expression. A variety of signaling pathways may be involved in the treatment of ZSYTP against POI, especially PI3K-AKT, HIF-1 and the AGE-RAGE cascades. Docking simulation showed that G1, C1, SR5, and F1 had relatively lower binding energy. In vivo, ZSYTP significantly reversed CTX-induced ovarian damage in follicle number, hormone level and apoptosis, with an overall improved therapeutic effect compared to Progynova. Results from RNA-Seq revealed that the PI3K-AKT, Hippo, AGE-RAGE, and Rap1 signaling pathways and regulation of inflammation, immune response, and lipid metabolism may mediate the protective effects of ZSYTP against POI, which is different than Progynova's mechanism of action. Conclusions Collectively, this study indicates that ZSYTP could be a highly promising alternative as a non-HRT-based therapy for POI. Its mechanism involves multiple signaling pathways, alleviating ovarian apoptosis and recovering AMH and FSH level. However, the discrepancy between different research techniques highlight the necessity of further experimental verification from other aspects such as translation and posttranslational modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zifan Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Kuangyu Song
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, PR China
| | - Hongru Zhao
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, PR China
| | - Yuanqiao He
- Center of Laboratory Animal Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Laboratory Animal, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, PR China
- Nanchang Royo Biotech Co,. Ltd, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jia Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
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Zhou B, Yang Y, Pang X, Shi J, Jiang T, Zheng X. Quercetin inhibits DNA damage responses to induce apoptosis via SIRT5/PI3K/AKT pathway in non-small cell lung cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:115071. [PMID: 37390710 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023] Open
Abstract
SIRT5 is a mitochondrial NAD+ -dependent lysine deacylase. Downregulation of SIRT5 has been linked to several primary cancers and DNA damage. In clinical therapy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the Feiyiliu Mixture (FYLM) is an experience and effective Chinese herb prescription. And we found that quercetin is an important ingredient in the FYLM. However, whether quercetin regulates DNA damage repair (DDR) and induces apoptosis through SIRT5 in NSCLC remains unknown. The present study revealed that quercetin directly binds to SIRT5 and inhibits the phosphorylation of PI3K/AKT through the interaction between SIRT5 and PI3K, thus inhibiting the repair process of homologous recombination (HR) and non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) in NSCLC, which raise mitotic catastrophe and apoptosis. Our study provided a novel mechanism of action of quercetin in the treatment of NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baochen Zhou
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China; Qingdao Hiser Hospital Affiliated of Qingdao University (Qingdao Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital), Qingdao 266033, China
| | - Ye Yang
- Qingdao Central Hospital, Qingdao 266042, China
| | - Xuemeng Pang
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Jingjing Shi
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China
| | - Ting Jiang
- Qingdao Hiser Hospital Affiliated of Qingdao University (Qingdao Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital), Qingdao 266033, China
| | - Xin Zheng
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250355, China; Qingdao Hiser Hospital Affiliated of Qingdao University (Qingdao Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital), Qingdao 266033, China.
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137
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Najafi A, Asadi E, Benson JD. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation: a review on reactive oxygen species generation and antioxidant therapy. Cell Tissue Res 2023; 393:401-423. [PMID: 37328708 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-023-03794-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide. Fortunately, the survival rate of cancer continues to rise, owing to advances in cancer treatments. However, these treatments are gonadotoxic and cause infertility. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation (OTCT) is the most flexible option to preserve fertility in women and children with cancer. However, OTCT is associated with significant follicle loss and an accompanying short lifespan of the grafts. There has been a decade of research in cryopreservation-induced oxidative stress in single cells with significant successes in mitigating this major source of loss of viability. However, despite its success elsewhere and beyond a few promising experiments, little attention has been paid to this key aspect of OTCT-induced damage. As more and more clinical practices adopt OTCT for fertility preservation, it is a critical time to review oxidative stress as a cause of damage and to outline potential ameliorative interventions. Here we give an overview of the application of OTCT for female fertility preservation and existing challenges; clarify the potential contribution of oxidative stress in ovarian follicle loss; and highlight potential ability of antioxidant treatments to mitigate the OTCT-induced injuries that might be of interest to cryobiologists and reproductive clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atefeh Najafi
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, S7N 5E2, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Ebrahim Asadi
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, S7N 5E2, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - James D Benson
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, S7N 5E2, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.
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Grubliauskaite M, van der Perk MEM, Bos AME, Meijer AJM, Gudleviciene Z, van den Heuvel-Eibrink MM, Rascon J. Minimal Infiltrative Disease Identification in Cryopreserved Ovarian Tissue of Girls with Cancer for Future Use: A Systematic Review. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4199. [PMID: 37686475 PMCID: PMC10486797 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15174199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation are the only available fertility techniques for prepubertal girls with cancer. Though autotransplantation carries a risk of reintroducing malignant cells, it can be avoided by identifying minimal infiltrative disease (MID) within ovarian tissue. METHODS A broad search for peer-reviewed articles in the PubMed database was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines up to March 2023. Search terms included 'minimal residual disease', 'cryopreservation', 'ovarian', 'cancer' and synonyms. RESULTS Out of 542 identified records, 17 were included. Ovarian tissues of at least 115 girls were evaluated and categorized as: hematological malignancies (n = 56; 48.7%), solid tumors (n = 42; 36.5%) and tumors of the central nervous system (n = 17; 14.8%). In ovarian tissue of 25 patients (21.7%), MID was detected using RT-qPCR, FISH or multicolor flow cytometry: 16 of them (64%) being ALL (IgH rearrangements with/without TRG, BCL-ABL1, EA2-PBX1, TEL-AML1 fusion transcripts), 3 (12%) Ewing sarcoma (EWS-FLI1 fusion transcript, EWSR1 rearrangements), 3 (12%) CML (BCR-ABL1 fusion transcript, FLT3) and 3 (12%) AML (leukemia-associated immunophenotypes, BCR-ABL1 fusion transcript) patients. CONCLUSION While the majority of malignancies were found to have a low risk of containing malignant cells in ovarian tissue, further studies are needed to ensure safe implementation of future fertility restoration in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Grubliauskaite
- Center for Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, Santariskiu Str. 4, LT-08406 Vilnius, Lithuania
- Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Sauletekio Ave. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania
- Department of Biobank, National Cancer Institute, Santariskiu Str. 1, LT-08406 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | | - Annelies M. E. Bos
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Zivile Gudleviciene
- Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, M. K. Ciurlionio Str. 21/27, LT-03101 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Marry M. van den Heuvel-Eibrink
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Division of Child Health, UMCU-Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, 3584 EA Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jelena Rascon
- Center for Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, Santariskiu Str. 4, LT-08406 Vilnius, Lithuania
- Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, M. K. Ciurlionio Str. 21/27, LT-03101 Vilnius, Lithuania
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Lopez J, Hohensee G, Liang J, Sela M, Johnson J, Kallen AN. The Aging Ovary and the Tales Learned Since Fetal Development. Sex Dev 2023; 17:156-168. [PMID: 37598664 PMCID: PMC10841896 DOI: 10.1159/000532072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While the term "aging" implies a process typically associated with later life, the consequences of ovarian aging are evident by the time a woman reaches her forties, and sometimes earlier. This is due to a gradual decline in the quantity and quality of oocytes which occurs over a woman's reproductive lifespan. Indeed, the reproductive potential of the ovary is established even before birth, as the proper formation and assembly of the ovarian germ cell population during fetal life determines the lifetime endowment of oocytes and follicles. In the ovary, sophisticated molecular processes have been identified that regulate the timing of ovarian aging and these are critical to ensuring follicular maintenance. SUMMARY The mechanisms thought to contribute to overall aging have been summarized under the term the "hallmarks of aging" and include such processes as DNA damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, telomere attrition, genomic instability, and stem cell exhaustion, among others. Similarly, in the ovary, molecular processes have been identified that regulate the timing of ovarian aging and these are critical to ensuring follicular maintenance. In this review, we outline critical processes involved in ovarian aging, highlight major achievements for treatment of ovarian aging, and discuss ongoing questions and areas of debate. KEY MESSAGES Ovarian aging is recognized as what may be a complex process in which age, genetics, environment, and many other factors contribute to the size and depletion of the follicle pool. The putative hallmarks of reproductive aging outlined herein include a diversity of plausible processes contributing to the depletion of the ovarian reserve. More research is needed to clarify if and to what extent these putative regulators do in fact govern follicle and oocyte behavior, and how these signals might be integrated in order to control the overall pattern of ovarian aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus Lopez
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Gabe Hohensee
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jing Liang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Meirav Sela
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Joshua Johnson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Amanda N. Kallen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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140
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Shelling AN, Ahmed Nasef N. The Role of Lifestyle and Dietary Factors in the Development of Premature Ovarian Insufficiency. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1601. [PMID: 37627595 PMCID: PMC10451748 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12081601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a condition that arises from dysfunction or early depletion of the ovarian follicle pool accompanied by an earlier-than-normal loss of fertility in young women. Oxidative stress has been suggested as an important factor in the decline of fertility in women and POI. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms of oxidative stress implicated in ovarian ageing and dysfunction in relation to POI, in particular mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptosis and inflammation. Genetic defects, autoimmunity and chemotherapy, are some of the reviewed hallmarks of POI that can lead to increased oxidative stress. Additionally, we highlight lifestyle factors, including diet, low energy availability and BMI, that can increase the risk of POI. The final section of this review discusses dietary factors associated with POI, including consumption of oily fish, mitochondria nutrient therapy, melatonin, dairy and vitamins that can be targeted as potential interventions, especially for at-risk women and in combination with personalised nutrition. Understanding the impact of lifestyle and its implications for POI and oxidative stress holds great promise in reducing the burden of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew N. Shelling
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand;
- Centre for Cancer Research, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Noha Ahmed Nasef
- Riddet Research Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North 4474, New Zealand
- School of Food and Advanced Technology, College of Science, Massey University, Palmerston North 4474, New Zealand
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Schallmoser A, Einenkel R, Färber C, Hüren V, Emrich N, John J, Sänger N. Comparison of angiogenic potential in vitrified vs. slow frozen human ovarian tissue. Sci Rep 2023; 13:12885. [PMID: 37558708 PMCID: PMC10412559 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39920-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitrification of ovarian tissue is a promising alternative approach to the traditional slow freezing method. Few empirical investigations have been conducted to determine the angiogenic profiles of these two freezing methods. In this study we aimed to answer the question whether one of the cryopreservation methods should be preferred based on the secretion of angiogenic factors. Tissue culture with reduced oxygen (5%) was conducted for 48 h with samples of fresh, slow frozen/thawed and vitrified/rapid warmed ovarian cortex tissue from 20 patients. From each patient, tissue was used in all three treatment groups. Tissue culture supernatants were determined regarding cytokine expression profiles of angiogenin, angiopoietin-2, epidermal growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor, heparin binding epidermal growth factor, hepatocyte growth factor, Leptin, Platelet-derived growth factor B, placental growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor A via fluoroimmunoassay. Apoptotic changes were assessed by TUNEL staining of cryosections and supplemented by hematoxylin and eosin and proliferating cell nuclear antigen staining. Comparing the angiogenic expression profiles of vitrified/rapid warmed tissue with slow frozen/thawed tissue samples, no significant differences were observed. Detection of apoptotic DNA fragmentation via TUNEL indicated minor apoptotic profiles that were not significantly different comparing both cryopreservation methods. Vitrification of ovarian cortical tissue does not appear to impact negatively on the expression profile of angiogenic factors and may be regarded as an effective alternative approach to the traditional slow freezing method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Schallmoser
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Rebekka Einenkel
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Cara Färber
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Vanessa Hüren
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Norah Emrich
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Julia John
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Nicole Sänger
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
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Bhaumik S, Lockett J, Cuffe J, Clifton VL. Glucocorticoids and Their Receptor Isoforms: Roles in Female Reproduction, Pregnancy, and Foetal Development. Biology (Basel) 2023; 12:1104. [PMID: 37626990 PMCID: PMC10452123 DOI: 10.3390/biology12081104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Alterations in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and associated changes in circulating levels of glucocorticoids are integral to an organism's response to stressful stimuli. Glucocorticoids acting via glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) play a role in fertility, reproduction, placental function, and foetal development. GRs are ubiquitously expressed throughout the female reproductive system and regulate normal reproductive function. Stress-induced glucocorticoids have been shown to inhibit reproduction and affect female gonadal function by suppressing the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis at each level. Furthermore, during pregnancy, a mother's exposure to prenatal stress or external glucocorticoids can result in long-lasting alterations to the foetal HPA and neuroendocrine function. Several GR isoforms generated via alternative splicing or translation initiation from the GR gene have been identified in the mammalian ovary and uterus. The GR isoforms identified include the splice variants, GRα and GRβ, and GRγ and GR-P. Glucocorticoids can exert both stimulatory and inhibitory effects and both pro- and anti-inflammatory functions in the ovary, in vitro. In the placenta, thirteen GR isoforms have been identified in humans, guinea pigs, sheep, rats, and mice, indicating they are conserved across species and may be important in mediating a differential response to stress. Distinctive responses to glucocorticoids, differential birth outcomes in pregnancy complications, and sex-based variations in the response to stress could all potentially be dependent on a particular GR expression pattern. This comprehensive review provides an overview of the structure and function of the GR in relation to female fertility and reproduction and discusses the changes in the GR and glucocorticoid signalling during pregnancy. To generate this overview, an extensive non-systematic literature search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, with a focus on original research articles, meta-analyses, and previous review papers addressing the subject. This review integrates the current understanding of GR variants and their roles in glucocorticoid signalling, reproduction, placental function, and foetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sreeparna Bhaumik
- Mater Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4067, Australia; (S.B.); (J.L.)
| | - Jack Lockett
- Mater Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4067, Australia; (S.B.); (J.L.)
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Metro South Health, Brisbane 4102, Australia
| | - James Cuffe
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4067, Australia;
| | - Vicki L. Clifton
- Mater Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4067, Australia; (S.B.); (J.L.)
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Sheikh S, Lo BKM, Kaune H, Bansal J, Deleva A, Williams SA. Rescue of follicle development after oocyte-induced ovary dysfunction and infertility in a model of POI. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1202411. [PMID: 37614224 PMCID: PMC10443433 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1202411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms and aetiology underlying the development of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) are poorly understood. However, the oocyte clearly has a role as demonstrated by the Double Mutant (DM) mouse model where ovarian dysfunction (6 weeks) is followed by POI (3 months) due to oocyte-specific deletion of complex and hybrid N- and O-glycans. The ovaries of DM mice contain more primary follicles (3a stage) accompanied by fewer developing follicles, indicating a block in follicle development. To investigate this block, we first analysed early follicle development in postnatal (8-day), pre-pubertal (3-week) and post-pubertal (6-week and 3-month) DM (C1galt1 F/F Mgat1 F/F:ZP3Cre) and Control (C1galt1 F/F Mgat1 F/F) mice. Second, we investigated if transplantation of DM ovaries into a "normal" endocrine environment would restore follicle development. Third, we determined if replacing DM ovarian somatic cells would rescue development of DM oocytes. At 3-week, DM primary 3a follicles contain large oocytes accompanied by early development of a second GC layer and increased GC proliferation. At 6-week, DM primary 3a follicles contain abnormally large oocytes, accompanied with decreased GC proliferation. Transplantation of DM ovaries into a 'normal' endocrine environment did not restore normal follicle development. However, replacing somatic cells by generating reaggregated ovaries (ROs) did enable follicle development to progress and thus highlighted intra-ovarian factors were responsible for the onset of POI in DM females. Thus, these studies demonstrate oocyte-initiated altered communication between GCs and oocytes results in abnormal primary follicles which fail to progress and leads to POI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Suzannah A. Williams
- Nuffield Department of Women’s and Reproductive Health, Women’s Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Liu M, Xiao B, Zhu Y, Chen M, Huang J, Guo H, Wang F. MicroRNA-144-3p protects against chemotherapy-induced apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells and activation of primordial follicles by targeting MAP3K9. Eur J Med Res 2023; 28:264. [PMID: 37537658 PMCID: PMC10399062 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-023-01231-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Premature ovarian failure (POF) is defined by amenorrhea, ovarian atrophy, hypoestrogenism, elevated gonadotropin level, and infertility under the age of 40. POF is frequently induced by chemotherapeutic agents. However, the underlying mechanisms regarding chemotherapy-mediated damage to ovarian function are unclear. In this study, enhanced apoptosis of granulosa cells (GCs) and aberrant activation of primordial follicles were observed in a POF mouse model induced by cisplatin. We subsequently observed significant downregulation of miR-144-3p and upregulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase 9 (MAP3K9) in primary ovarian GCs from POF mice, as revealed by microarrays. Furthermore, MAP3K9 expression was higher in human ovarian granulosa cells (COV434) treated with cisplatin and was identified as a novel target of miR-144-3p. Functional analysis revealed that miR-144-3p attenuated cisplatin induced apoptosis of GCs via silencing MAP3K9 expression, which suppressed the activity of the downstream p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Meanwhile, miR-144-3p prevented premature primordial follicle depletion in cisplatin-induced POF mice through targeting Map3k9, which led to a decline in the phosphorylation and activation of the phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase b (AKT) pathway. Taken together, this study revealed the protective effects of miR-144-3p on ovarian function and shed light on the epigenetic regulatory mechanism in the development of POF, which might provide new biomarkers for the ovarian reserve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Liu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Bang Xiao
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Yiqing Zhu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Meiting Chen
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Jinfeng Huang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Haiyan Guo
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
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Karimi S, Tabatabaei SN, Novin MG, Kazemi M, Mofarahe ZS, Ebrahimzadeh-Bideskan A. Nanowarming improves survival of vitrified ovarian tissue and follicular development in a sheep model. Heliyon 2023; 9:e18828. [PMID: 37636467 PMCID: PMC10448434 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue cryopreservation has allowed long term banking of biomaterials in medicine. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation in particular helps patients by extending their fertility window. However, protection against tissue injury during the thawing process has proven to be challenging. This is mainly due to the heterogenous and slow distribution of the thermal energy across the vitrified tissue during a conventional warming process. Nanowarming is a technique that utilizes hyperthermia of magnetic nanoparticles to accelerate this process. Herein, hyperthermia of synthesized PEGylated silica-coated iron oxide nanoparticles was used to deter the injury of cryopreserved ovarian tissue in a sheep model. When compared to the conventional technique, our findings suggest that follicular development and gene expression in tissues warmed by the proposed technique have been improved. In addition, Nanowarming prevented cellular apoptosis and oxidative stress. We therefore conclude that Nanowarming is a potential complementary candidate to increase efficiency in the ovarian cryopreservation field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sareh Karimi
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Seyed Nasrollah Tabatabaei
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Pediatrics, Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Montreal, Montreal, Qc, Canada
| | - Marefat Ghaffari Novin
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Kazemi
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Shams Mofarahe
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Ebrahimzadeh-Bideskan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Iran
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Kayiira A, Neda John J, Zaake D, Xiong S, Kambugu Balagadde J, Gomez-Lobo V, Wabinga H, Ghebre R. Understanding Fertility Attitudes and Outcomes Among Survivors of Adolescent and Young Adult Cancers in a Low-Resource Setting: A Registry-Based Computer-Assisted Telephone Interview Survey. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2023; 12:520-528. [PMID: 36579945 PMCID: PMC10457622 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2022.0114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To establish the extent of self-reported reproductive failure associated with cancer treatment, and attitudes toward fertility among adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors in Uganda. Methods: A registry-based computer-assisted telephone interview survey was conducted in Uganda. The survey population were survivors of childhood, adolescent and early adulthood cancers diagnosed between 2007 and 2018. The survey explored fertility outcomes, experiences of oncofertility and fertility attitudes of AYA cancer survivors. Results: Thirty-four (female = 14 and male = 20) interviews were completed. Survivors were 18-35 years of age. The median age at cancer diagnosis was 23.5 for females and 17.5 for males. Kaposi's sarcoma contributed to 44% of primary cancer diagnoses. All the survivors had received chemotherapy alone or in combination with other modalities and 79% of survivors had not received satisfactory information about future fertility before cancer treatment. Twenty one percent of males and 46% females met the criteria for infertility and 60% of these had met this criterion after their cancer diagnosis. Eighty two percent wanted to raise a biologically related child. Forty seven percent would be dissatisfied with their lives if they were unable to have a child or additional children. Conclusion: AYA cancer survivors in this low-resource setting reported reproductive failure, despite a strong fertility desire. Information and counseling provided on therapy-related problems before cancer treatment was insufficient and reinforces the need to build capacity for oncofertility resources within the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Kayiira
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Uganda Martyrs University School of Medicine, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Mulago Specialized Women's and Neonatal Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Daniel Zaake
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Uganda Martyrs University School of Medicine, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Serena Xiong
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Minneapolis. Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Veronica Gomez-Lobo
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Henry Wabinga
- Kampala Cancer Registry, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rahel Ghebre
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Women's Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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147
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Delgouffe E, Braye A, Vloeberghs V, Mateizel I, Ernst C, Ferster A, Devalck C, Tournaye H, Gies I, Goossens E. Spermatogenesis after gonadotoxic childhood treatment: follow-up of 12 patients. Hum Reprod Open 2023; 2023:hoad029. [PMID: 37547664 PMCID: PMC10403430 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoad029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the long-term impact of presumed gonadotoxic treatment during childhood on the patient's testicular function at adulthood? SUMMARY ANSWER Although most patients showed low testicular volumes and some degree of reproductive hormone disruption 12.3 (2.3-21.0) years after gonadotoxic childhood therapy, active spermatogenesis was demonstrated in the semen sample of 8 out of the 12 patients. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In recent decades, experimental testicular tissue banking programmes have been set up to safeguard the future fertility of young boys requiring chemo- and/or radiotherapy with significant gonadotoxicity. Although the risk of azoospermia following such therapies is estimated to be high, only limited long-term data are available on the reproductive potential at adulthood. STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION This single-centre prospective cohort study was conducted between September 2020 and February 2023 and involved 12 adult patients. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS This study was carried out in a tertiary care centre and included 12 young adults (18.1-28.3 years old) who had been offered testicular tissue banking prior to gonadotoxic treatment during childhood. All patients had a consultation and physical examination with a fertility specialist, a scrotal ultrasound to measure the testicular volumes and evaluate the testicular parenchyma, a blood test for assessment of reproductive hormones, and a semen analysis. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Testicular tissue was banked prior to the gonadotoxic treatment for 10 out of the 12 included patients. Testicular volumes were low for 9 patients, and 10 patients showed some degree of reproductive hormone disruption. Remarkably, ongoing spermatogenesis was demonstrated in 8 patients at a median 12.3 (range 2.3-21.0) years post-treatment. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION This study had a limited sample size, making additional research with a larger study population necessary to verify these preliminary findings. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These findings highlight the need for multicentric research with a larger study population to establish universal inclusion criteria for immature testicular tissue banking. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This study was conducted with financial support from the Research Programme of the Research Foundation-Flanders (G010918N), Kom Op Tegen Kanker, and Scientific Fund Willy Gepts (WFWG19-03). The authors declare no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04202094; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04202094?id=NCT04202094&draw=2&rank=1 This study was registered on 6 December 2019, and the first patient was enrolled on 8 September 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Delgouffe
- Correspondence address. Department of Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine (RGRG), Biology of the Testis (BITE), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium. Tel: +32-(0)2-477-46-44; E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5611-2173
| | - A Braye
- Department of Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine (RGRG), Biology of the Testis (BITE), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - V Vloeberghs
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Brussels, Belgium
| | - I Mateizel
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Brussels, Belgium
| | - C Ernst
- Division of Paediatric Radiology, Department of Radiology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Brussels, Belgium
| | - A Ferster
- Department of Hemato-Oncology, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola (HUDERF), Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - C Devalck
- Department of Hemato-Oncology, Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola (HUDERF), Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - H Tournaye
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology, Perinatology and Reproduction, Institute of Professional Education, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
| | - I Gies
- Division of Paediatric Endocrinology, Department of Paediatrics, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - E Goossens
- Department of Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine (RGRG), Biology of the Testis (BITE), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
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148
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Stukaite-Ruibiene E, van der Perk MEM, Vaitkeviciene GE, Bos AME, Bumbuliene Z, van den Heuvel-Eibrink MM, Rascon J. Evaluation of oncofertility care in childhood cancer patients: the EU-Horizon 2020 twinning project TREL initiative. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1212711. [PMID: 37565239 PMCID: PMC10411952 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1212711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The 5-year survival rate of childhood cancer exceeds 80%, however, many survivors develop late effects including infertility. The aim of this study was to evaluate the current status of oncofertility care at Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos (VULSK) within the framework of the EU-Horizon 2020 TREL project. Methods All parents or patients aged 12-17.9 years treated from July 1, 2021 until July 1, 2022 were invited to complete an oncofertility-care-evaluation questionnaire. After completing the questionnaire, patients were triaged to low-risk (LR) or high-risk (HR) of gonadal damage using a risk stratification tool (triage). Data was assessed using descriptive statistics. Results Questionnaires were completed by 48 parents and 13 children triaged as 36 (59%) LR and 25 (41%) HR patients. Most HR respondents (21/25, 84%) were not counseled by a fertility specialist. Six boys (4 HR, 2 LR) were counseled, none of the girls was counseled. Three HR boys underwent sperm cryopreservation. Only 17 (27.9%, 9 HR, 8 LR) respondents correctly estimated their risk. All counseled boys (n = 6) agreed the risk for fertility impairment had been mentioned as compared to 49.1% (n = 27) of uncounseled. All counseled respondents agreed they knew enough about fertility (vs. 42%). Conclusions Respondents counseled by a fertility specialist were provided more information on fertility than uncounseled. HR patients were not sufficiently counseled by a fertility specialist. Based on the current experience oncofertility care at VULSK will be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Goda Elizabeta Vaitkeviciene
- Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
- Center for Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | | - Zana Bumbuliene
- Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
- Center of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | | - Jelena Rascon
- Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
- Center for Pediatric Oncology and Hematology, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos, Vilnius, Lithuania
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149
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Wang R, Zhao Y, Miao C, Chen Y, Ren N, Yang L, Cheng W, Zhang Q, Fang X. Investigation of the Mechanisms and Experimental Verification of Yulin Formula in the Treatment of Diminished Ovarian Reserve via Network Pharmacology. Drug Des Devel Ther 2023; 17:2147-2163. [PMID: 37521037 PMCID: PMC10377651 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s413142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this study is to examine, using network pharmacology analysis and experimental validation, the pharmacological processes by which Yulin Formula (YLF) reduces cyclophosphamide-induced diminished ovarian reserve (DOR). Methods First, information about the active components, associated targets, and related genes of YLF and DOR was gathered from open-access databases. The primary targets and pathways of YLF to reduce DOR were predicted using studies of functional enrichment from the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), Gene Ontology (GO), and Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) networks. Second, we built a cyclophosphamide-induced diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) rat model to verify the primary target proteins implicated in the predicted signaling pathway to explore the mechanism of improve ovarian function of YLF. Results 98 targets met the targets of the 82 active ingredients in YLF and DOR after searching the intersection of the active ingredient targets and DOR targets. Fourteen targets, including AKT and Caspase-3 among others, were hub targets, according to the PPI network study. The PI3K/AKT pathway was revealed to be enriched by numerous targets by the GO and KEGG enrichment studies, and it was used as a target for in vivo validation. Animal studies showed that YLF administration not only reduced the number of atretic follicles, the proportion of TUNEL-positive ovarian cells, the rate of apoptosis of granulosa cells (GCs) and the proportion of abnormal mitochondria in DOR rats, but also reversed the high expression of Caspase-3, Caspase-9, BAX, cytochrome C, PI3K and P-AKT, improving the ovarian reserve in cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced DOR rats. Conclusion Our research results predicted the active ingredients and potential targets of YLF-interfering DOR by an integrated network pharmacology approach, and experimentally validated some key target proteins participated in the predicted signaling pathway. A more comprehensive understanding of the pharmacological mechanism of YLF for DOR treatment was obtained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruye Wang
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ying Zhao
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chenyun Miao
- School of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yun Chen
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ning Ren
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Liuqin Yang
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei Cheng
- Department of Orthopedics, Hangzhou TCM Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qin Zhang
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Research Institute of Women’s Reproductive Health, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaohong Fang
- Department of TCM Gynecology, Hangzhou TCM Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
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150
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Barbato V, Genovese V, De Gregorio V, Di Nardo M, Travaglione A, De Napoli L, Fragomeni G, Zanetti EM, Adiga SK, Mondrone G, D'Hooghe T, Zheng W, Longobardi S, Catapano G, Gualtieri R, Talevi R. Dynamic in vitro culture of bovine and human ovarian tissue enhances follicle progression and health. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11773. [PMID: 37479791 PMCID: PMC10361967 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37086-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In vitro ovarian cortical tissue culture, followed by culture of isolated secondary follicles, is a promising future option for production of mature oocytes. Although efforts have been made to improve the culture outcome by changing the medium composition, so far, most studies used static culture systems. Here we describe the outcome of 7 days cultures of bovine and human ovarian cortical tissue in a dynamic system using a novel perifusion bioreactor in comparison to static culture in conventional and/or gas permeable dishes. Findings show that dynamic culture significantly improves follicle quality and viability, percentage and health of secondary follicles, overall tissue health, and steroid secretion in both species. Model predictions suggest that such amelioration can be mediated by an enhanced oxygen availability and/or by fluid-mechanical shear stresses and solid compressive strains exerted on the tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenza Barbato
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Complesso Universitario Di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Genovese
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Complesso Universitario Di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126, Naples, Italy
- IVF Research, Education, Development S.R.L., Via Josemaria Escrivà, 68, 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Vincenza De Gregorio
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Complesso Universitario Di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Maddalena Di Nardo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Complesso Universitario Di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126, Naples, Italy
- Institute for Biomedical Technologies ITB, National Research Council CNR, Via Moruzzi, 1, 56124, Pisa, Italy
| | - Angela Travaglione
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Complesso Universitario Di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi De Napoli
- Department of Mechanical, Energy and Management Engineering, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87030, Rende, CS, Italy
| | - Gionata Fragomeni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Viale Europa - Loc. Germaneto, 88100, Catanzaro, Italy
| | | | - Satish K Adiga
- Centre of Excellence in Clinical Embryology, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576 104, India
| | - Giuseppe Mondrone
- IVF Research, Education, Development S.R.L., Via Josemaria Escrivà, 68, 81100, Caserta, Italy
| | - Thomas D'Hooghe
- Global Medical Unit Fertility, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293, Darmstadt, Germany
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven (Leuven University), Gasthuisberg Campus, Herestraat 49, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Wengijng Zheng
- Global Medical Unit Fertility, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Salvatore Longobardi
- Global Medical Unit Fertility, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, 64293, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Gerardo Catapano
- Department of Mechanical, Energy and Management Engineering, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87030, Rende, CS, Italy
| | - Roberto Gualtieri
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Complesso Universitario Di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Riccardo Talevi
- Department of Biology, University of Naples "Federico II", Complesso Universitario Di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126, Naples, Italy.
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