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Moretti C, Bonomi M, Dionese P, Federici S, Fulghesu AM, Giannelli J, Giordano R, Guccione L, Maseroli E, Moghetti P, Mioni R, Pivonello R, Sabbadin C, Scaroni C, Tonacchera M, Verde N, Vignozzi L, Gambineri A. Inositols and female reproduction disorders: a consensus statement from the working group of the Club of the Italian Society of Endocrinology (SIE)-Women's Endocrinology. J Endocrinol Invest 2024:10.1007/s40618-024-02363-w. [PMID: 39009925 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-024-02363-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To provide the latest scientific knowledge on the efficacy of inositols for improving reproductive disorders in women with and without polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and to reach a consensus on their potential use through a Delphi-like process. METHODS A panel of 17 endocrinologists and 1 gynecologist discussed 4 key domains: menses irregularity and anovulation, fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and neonatal outcomes. RESULTS A total of eight consensus statements were drafted. Myo-inositol (Myo) supplementation can be used to improve menses irregularities and anovulation in PCOS. Myo supplementation can be used in subfertile women with or without PCOS to reduce the dose of r-FSH for ovarian stimulation during IVF, but it should not be used to increase the clinical pregnancy rate or live birth rate. Myo supplementation can be used in the primary prevention of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), but should not be used to improve pregnancy outcomes in women with GDM. Myo can be preconceptionally added to folic acid in women with a previous neural tube defects (NTD)-complicated pregnancy to reduce the risk of NTDs in newborns. Myo can be used during pregnancy to reduce the risk of macrosomia and neonatal hypoglycemia in mothers at risk of GDM. CONCLUSION This consensus statement provides recommendations aimed at guiding healthcare practitioners in the use of inositols for the treatment or prevention of female reproductive disorders. More evidence-based data are needed to definitively establish the usefulness of Myo, the appropriate dosage, and to support the use of D-chiro-inositol (DCI) or a definitive Myo/DCI ratio.
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Affiliation(s)
- Costanzo Moretti
- Department of Systems' Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Bonomi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Instituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Dionese
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes Prevention and Care, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Federici
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Instituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Fulghesu
- Department of Surgical Science, Duilio Casula Hospital, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Jacopo Giannelli
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Roberta Giordano
- Department of Biological and Clinical Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Laura Guccione
- Department of Systems' Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Maseroli
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, Mario Serio Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Paolo Moghetti
- Unit of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Roberto Mioni
- Department of Medicine, Clinica Medica 3-Azienda Ospedaliera, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Rosario Pivonello
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgica, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Sabbadin
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Carla Scaroni
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine (DIMED), University Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Massimo Tonacchera
- Department of Endocrinology, Pisa University Hospital of Cisanello, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Pisa, Italy
| | - Nunzia Verde
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Sezione di Endocrinologia, Diabetologia, Andrologia e Nutrizione, Unità di Andrologia e Medicina della Riproduzione, Sessualità e Affermazione di Genere, Università Federico II di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Linda Vignozzi
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, Mario Serio Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandra Gambineri
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes Prevention and Care, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences (DIMEC), IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
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Xie Q, Cui D, Zhu Q, Qin X, Ren D, Xu X. Supplementing maternal diet with milk oligosaccharides and probiotics helps develop the immune system and intestinal flora of offsprings. Food Sci Nutr 2023; 11:6868-6877. [PMID: 37970377 PMCID: PMC10630837 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.3579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Intestinal flora is very important for improving the development of the immune system in newborns. Maternal diet during pregnancy and lactation is one of the key factors affecting the growth and development of offspring. The objective of the present study was to examine whether supplementation of maternal diet with milk oligosaccharides and Bifidobacterium could influence the development of the intestinal flora and immune system of neonatal mice. In total, 30 pregnant Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) mice were randomly divided into six groups: a control group (basal diet) and five intervention groups (basal diet supplemented with different doses of 2'-fucosyllactose [2'-FL] and Bifidobacterium Bb12) during the pregnancy period. All female mice were monitored for physical health during gavage. After delivery, the number of mice in each litter, any deformity, and the development of the offspring were recorded. The spleen, blood, and fecal samples of six groups of 10-12 day-old offspring were collected. The results demonstrated that maternal milk oligosaccharides and probiotics conferred protective effects against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced immunosuppression in mice offspring by significantly enhancing the immune organ indexes, splenocyte proliferation, immunoglobulin (immunoglobulin G, A, M) production as well as improving the macrophage phagocytosis (p < .05). The abundance of Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria in the feces of offspring mice in the intervention groups was significantly higher than that of the offspring mice in the control group (p < .05). These findings suggest that the combination of 2'-FL and Bifidobacterium Bb12 displayed synergistic interactions between the two components that could promote the development of the immune system of the offsprings and improve their microbiota through maternal ingestion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinggang Xie
- College of Food ScienceNortheast Agricultural UniversityHarbinChina
| | | | - Qinchao Zhu
- Institute of Dairy Science, College of Animal SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Xuewen Qin
- Institute of Dairy Science, College of Animal SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Daxi Ren
- Institute of Dairy Science, College of Animal SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Xiaoxi Xu
- College of Food ScienceNortheast Agricultural UniversityHarbinChina
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BMP/Smad Pathway Is Involved in Lithium Carbonate-Induced Neural-Tube Defects in Mice and Neural Stem Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314831. [PMID: 36499158 PMCID: PMC9735442 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Neural-tube defects (NTDs) are one type of the most serious birth defects. Studies have shown that inositol deficiency is closely related to the occurrence of NTDs. Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-mediated Smad signaling pathways have been implicated in neurogenesis and neural-tube closure. However, the role of the BMP/Smad pathway in inositol-deficiency-induced NTDs remains unclear. Inositol-deficiency models in C57 mice and mouse neural stem cells (mNSCs) were induced with Li2CO3 treatment or inositol withdrawal. The role of the BMP/Smad pathway in the regulation of cell proliferation and the development of NTDs was determined utilizing qRT-PCR, HE staining, Western blot, immunostaining, MTT assay, EdU staining, and flow cytometry. The intraperitoneal injection of Li2CO3 at Embryonic Day 7.5 induced the occurrence of NTDs. The mRNA levels of Bmp2, Bmp4, Smad1, Smad5, Smad8 and Runx2, the phosphorylation of Smad1/5/8, and the nuclear translocation of Runx2 were significantly increased in NTD embryonic brain tissues and mNSCs exposed to Li2CO3 or an inositol-free medium, which were suppressed by BMP receptor selective inhibitor LDN-193189. The Li2CO3-induced phosphorylation of Smad1/5/8 was inhibited by inositol supplementation. Cell proliferation was significantly promoted by Li2CO3 exposure or the absence of inositol in mNSCs, which was reversed by LDN-193189. These results suggest that the activation of the BMP/Smad signaling pathway might play an important role in the development of NTDs induced by maternal Li2CO3 exposure via inositol deficiency.
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Weston E, Pangilinan F, Eaton S, Orford M, Leung KY, Copp AJ, Mills JL, Molloy AM, Brody LC, Greene NDE. Investigating Genetic Determinants of Plasma Inositol Status in Adult Humans. J Nutr 2022; 152:2333-2342. [PMID: 36774100 PMCID: PMC9644178 DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxac204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myo-inositol (MI) is incorporated into numerous biomolecules, including phosphoinositides and inositol phosphates. Disturbance of inositol availability or metabolism is associated with various disorders, including neurological conditions and cancers, whereas supplemental MI has therapeutic potential in conditions such as depression, polycystic ovary syndrome, and congenital anomalies. Inositol status can be influenced by diet, synthesis, transport, utilization, and catabolism. OBJECTIVES We aimed to investigate potential genetic regulation of circulating MI status and to evaluate correlation of MI concentration with other metabolites. METHODS GC-MS was used to determine plasma MI concentration of >2000 healthy, young adults (aged 18-28 y) from the Trinity Student Study. Genotyping data were used to test association of plasma MI with single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in candidate genes, encoding inositol transporters and synthesizing enzymes, and test for genome-wide association. We evaluated potential correlation of plasma MI with d-chiro-inositol (DCI), glucose, and other metabolites by Spearman rank correlation. RESULTS Mean plasma MI showed a small but significant difference between males and females (28.5 and 26.9 μM, respectively). Candidate gene analysis revealed several nominally significant associations with plasma MI, most notably for SLC5A11 (solute carrier family 5 member 11), encoding a sodium-coupled inositol transporter, also known as SMIT2 (sodium-dependent myo-inositol transporter 2). However, these did not survive correction for multiple testing. Subsequent testing for genome-wide association with plasma MI did not identify associations of genome-wide significance (P < 5 × 10-8). However, 8 SNPs exceeded the threshold for suggestive significant association with plasma MI concentration (P < 1 × 10-5), 3 of which were located within or close to genes: MTDH (metadherin), LAPTM4B (lysosomal protein transmembrane 4 β), and ZP2 (zona pellucida 2). We found significant positive correlation of plasma MI concentration with concentration of dci and several other biochemicals including glucose, methionine, betaine, sarcosine, and tryptophan. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest potential for modulation of plasma MI in young adults by variation in SLC5A11, which is worthy of further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor Weston
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Faith Pangilinan
- Genetics and Environment Interaction Section, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Simon Eaton
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Orford
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kit-Yi Leung
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew J Copp
- Developmental Biology and Cancer Department, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - James L Mills
- Epidemiology Branch, Division of Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Anne M Molloy
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Lawrence C Brody
- Genetics and Environment Interaction Section, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Engelhardt DM, Martyr CA, Niswander L. Pathogenesis of neural tube defects: The regulation and disruption of cellular processes underlying neural tube closure. WIREs Mech Dis 2022; 14:e1559. [PMID: 35504597 PMCID: PMC9605354 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Neural tube closure (NTC) is crucial for proper development of the brain and spinal cord and requires precise morphogenesis from a sheet of cells to an intact three-dimensional structure. NTC is dependent on successful regulation of hundreds of genes, a myriad of signaling pathways, concentration gradients, and is influenced by epigenetic and environmental cues. Failure of NTC is termed a neural tube defect (NTD) and is a leading class of congenital defects in the United States and worldwide. Though NTDs are all defined as incomplete closure of the neural tube, the pathogenesis of an NTD determines the type, severity, positioning, and accompanying phenotypes. In this review, we survey pathogenesis of NTDs relating to disruption of cellular processes arising from genetic mutations, altered epigenetic regulation, and environmental influences by micronutrients and maternal condition. This article is categorized under: Congenital Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics Neurological Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics Neurological Diseases > Stem Cells and Development.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Engelhardt
- Molecular Cellular Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - Cara A Martyr
- Molecular Cellular Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - Lee Niswander
- Molecular Cellular Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado, USA
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Evidence based recommendations for an optimal prenatal supplement for women in the US: vitamins and related nutrients. Matern Health Neonatol Perinatol 2022; 8:4. [PMID: 35818085 PMCID: PMC9275129 DOI: 10.1186/s40748-022-00139-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood levels of most vitamins decrease during pregnancy if un-supplemented, including vitamins A, C, D, K, B1, B3, B5, B6, folate, biotin, and B12. Sub-optimal intake of vitamins from preconception through pregnancy increases the risk of many pregnancy complications and infant health problems. In the U.S., dietary intake of vitamins is often below recommended intakes, especially for vitamin D, choline and DHA. Many studies suggest that insufficient vitamin intake is associated with a wide range of pregnancy complications (anemia, Cesarean section, depression, gestational diabetes, hypertension, infertility, preeclampsia, and premature rupture of membranes) and infant health problems (asthma/wheeze, autism, low birth weight, congenital heart defects, intellectual development, intrauterine growth restriction, miscarriage, neural tube defects, orofacial defects, and preterm birth). The primary goal of this paper is to review the research literature and propose evidence-based recommendations for the optimal level of prenatal supplementation for each vitamin for most women in the United States. A secondary goal was to compare these new recommendations with the levels of vitamins in over 180 commercial prenatal supplements. The analysis found that prenatal supplements vary widely in content, often contained only a subset of essential vitamins, and the levels were often below our recommendations. This suggests that increasing prenatal vitamin supplementation to the levels recommended here may reduce the incidence of many pregnancy complications and infant health problems which currently occur.
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Isaković J, Šimunić I, Jagečić D, Hribljan V, Mitrečić D. Overview of Neural Tube Defects: Gene–Environment Interactions, Preventative Approaches and Future Perspectives. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10050965. [PMID: 35625701 PMCID: PMC9138472 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10050965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are the second most common congenital malformations of humans, characterized by impaired development of the central nervous system. Even though the etiology of most birth defects remains undetermined, genetic and environmental risk factors in the background of NTDs have been identified and extensively reported. On top of genetic and nutritional risks which include mutations in both coding and non-coding regions and maternal folate status, respectively, recent years have seen a rise in the identification of a variety of teratogens that could be implicated in NTD development. These include polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, arsenic, pesticides, maternal hyperthermia and antibiotics as well as pain and seizure medication. With an increase in understanding of teratogens leading to NTD formation, preventative and treatment approaches have witnessed great advances throughout the years. While the most common preventative approach includes folic acid food fortification as well as suggested inositol supplementation, treatment and management approaches differ greatly depending on the developmental stage and the site of the lesion and include prenatal surgery, stem cell transplantation and postnatal surgery. Because NTDs still represent a large health and financial burden for the patient and society as a whole, it is crucial to investigate potential risk factors and develop novel approaches in order to fully prevent this category of disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmina Isaković
- Omnion Research International Ltd., Heinzelova 4, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Histology and Embryology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (D.J.); (V.H.); (D.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Iva Šimunić
- Laboratory for Stem Cells, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Denis Jagečić
- Department of Histology and Embryology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (D.J.); (V.H.); (D.M.)
- Laboratory for Stem Cells, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Valentina Hribljan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (D.J.); (V.H.); (D.M.)
- Laboratory for Stem Cells, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Dinko Mitrečić
- Department of Histology and Embryology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (D.J.); (V.H.); (D.M.)
- Laboratory for Stem Cells, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
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Characterization of an inositol-producing Lactobacillus plantarum strain and the assessment of its probiotic potential and antibacterial activity. Lebensm Wiss Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lwt.2021.112553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Dinicola S, Unfer V, Facchinetti F, Soulage CO, Greene ND, Bizzarri M, Laganà AS, Chan SY, Bevilacqua A, Pkhaladze L, Benvenga S, Stringaro A, Barbaro D, Appetecchia M, Aragona C, Bezerra Espinola MS, Cantelmi T, Cavalli P, Chiu TT, Copp AJ, D’Anna R, Dewailly D, Di Lorenzo C, Diamanti-Kandarakis E, Hernández Marín I, Hod M, Kamenov Z, Kandaraki E, Monastra G, Montanino Oliva M, Nestler JE, Nordio M, Ozay AC, Papalou O, Porcaro G, Prapas N, Roseff S, Vazquez-Levin M, Vucenik I, Wdowiak A. Inositols: From Established Knowledge to Novel Approaches. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10575. [PMID: 34638926 PMCID: PMC8508595 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Myo-inositol (myo-Ins) and D-chiro-inositol (D-chiro-Ins) are natural compounds involved in many biological pathways. Since the discovery of their involvement in endocrine signal transduction, myo-Ins and D-chiro-Ins supplementation has contributed to clinical approaches in ameliorating many gynecological and endocrinological diseases. Currently both myo-Ins and D-chiro-Ins are well-tolerated, effective alternative candidates to the classical insulin sensitizers, and are useful treatments in preventing and treating metabolic and reproductive disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), and male fertility disturbances, like sperm abnormalities. Moreover, besides metabolic activity, myo-Ins and D-chiro-Ins deeply influence steroidogenesis, regulating the pools of androgens and estrogens, likely in opposite ways. Given the complexity of inositol-related mechanisms of action, many of their beneficial effects are still under scrutiny. Therefore, continuing research aims to discover new emerging roles and mechanisms that can allow clinicians to tailor inositol therapy and to use it in other medical areas, hitherto unexplored. The present paper outlines the established evidence on inositols and updates on recent research, namely concerning D-chiro-Ins involvement into steroidogenesis. In particular, D-chiro-Ins mediates insulin-induced testosterone biosynthesis from ovarian thecal cells and directly affects synthesis of estrogens by modulating the expression of the aromatase enzyme. Ovaries, as well as other organs and tissues, are characterized by a specific ratio of myo-Ins to D-chiro-Ins, which ensures their healthy state and proper functionality. Altered inositol ratios may account for pathological conditions, causing an imbalance in sex hormones. Such situations usually occur in association with medical conditions, such as PCOS, or as a consequence of some pharmacological treatments. Based on the physiological role of inositols and the pathological implications of altered myo-Ins to D-chiro-Ins ratios, inositol therapy may be designed with two different aims: (1) restoring the inositol physiological ratio; (2) altering the ratio in a controlled way to achieve specific effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Dinicola
- Systems Biology Group Lab, 00161 Rome, Italy; (S.D.); (V.U.); (M.B.); (C.A.); (M.S.B.E.); (G.M.)
| | - Vittorio Unfer
- Systems Biology Group Lab, 00161 Rome, Italy; (S.D.); (V.U.); (M.B.); (C.A.); (M.S.B.E.); (G.M.)
| | - Fabio Facchinetti
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Mother-Infant and Adult Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41121 Modena, Italy
| | - Christophe O. Soulage
- CarMeN Lab, INSA-Lyon, INSERM U1060, INRA, University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, 69100 Villeurbanne, France;
| | - Nicholas D. Greene
- Newlife Birth Defects Research Centre and Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK; (N.D.G.); (A.J.C.)
| | - Mariano Bizzarri
- Systems Biology Group Lab, 00161 Rome, Italy; (S.D.); (V.U.); (M.B.); (C.A.); (M.S.B.E.); (G.M.)
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University La Sapienza, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Simone Laganà
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital “Filippo Del Ponte”, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy;
| | - Shiao-Yng Chan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119228, Singapore;
| | - Arturo Bevilacqua
- Department of Dynamic, Clinical Psychology and Health Studies, Sapienza University, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Lali Pkhaladze
- Zhordania and Khomasuridze Institute of Reproductology, Tbilisi 0112, Georgia;
| | - Salvatore Benvenga
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy;
| | - Annarita Stringaro
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Italian National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Daniele Barbaro
- U.O. Endocrinology in Livorno Hospital, USL Nordovest Toscana, 57100 Livorno, Italy;
| | - Marialuisa Appetecchia
- Oncological Endocrinology Unit, Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, IRCCS, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Cesare Aragona
- Systems Biology Group Lab, 00161 Rome, Italy; (S.D.); (V.U.); (M.B.); (C.A.); (M.S.B.E.); (G.M.)
| | | | - Tonino Cantelmi
- Institute for Interpersonal Cognitive Therapy, 00100 Rome, Italy;
| | - Pietro Cavalli
- Humanitas Research Hospital, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy;
| | | | - Andrew J. Copp
- Newlife Birth Defects Research Centre and Developmental Biology and Cancer Programme, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK; (N.D.G.); (A.J.C.)
| | - Rosario D’Anna
- Department of Human Pathology, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy;
| | - Didier Dewailly
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Lille, 59000 Lille, France;
| | - Cherubino Di Lorenzo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome Polo Pontino, 04100 Latina, Italy;
| | - Evanthia Diamanti-Kandarakis
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, HYGEIA Hospital, Marousi, 15123 Athens, Greece; (E.D.-K.); (E.K.); (O.P.)
| | - Imelda Hernández Marín
- Human Reproduction Department, Hospital Juárez de México, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City 07760, Mexico;
| | - Moshe Hod
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel;
| | - Zdravko Kamenov
- Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Sofia, 1431 Sofia, Bulgaria;
| | - Eleni Kandaraki
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, HYGEIA Hospital, Marousi, 15123 Athens, Greece; (E.D.-K.); (E.K.); (O.P.)
| | - Giovanni Monastra
- Systems Biology Group Lab, 00161 Rome, Italy; (S.D.); (V.U.); (M.B.); (C.A.); (M.S.B.E.); (G.M.)
| | | | - John E. Nestler
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284, USA;
| | | | - Ali C. Ozay
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Near East University Hospital, Nicosia 99138, Cyprus;
| | - Olga Papalou
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, HYGEIA Hospital, Marousi, 15123 Athens, Greece; (E.D.-K.); (E.K.); (O.P.)
| | | | - Nikos Prapas
- IAKENTRO, Infertility Treatment Center, 54250 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Scott Roseff
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, South Florida Institute for Reproductive Medicine (IVFMD), Boca Raton, FL 33458, USA;
| | - Monica Vazquez-Levin
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME, CONICET-FIBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas de Argentina (CONICET), Buenos Aires 2490, Argentina;
| | - Ivana Vucenik
- Department of Medical & Research Technology and Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA;
| | - Artur Wdowiak
- Diagnostic Techniques Unit, Medical University of Lublin, 20-081 Lublin, Poland;
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10
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Neural tube defects: role of lithium carbonate exposure in embryonic neural development in a murine model. Pediatr Res 2021; 90:82-92. [PMID: 33173184 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-020-01244-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lithium carbonate (Li2CO3) is widely used in the treatment of clinical-affective psychosis. Exposure to Li2CO3 during pregnancy increases the risk of neural tube defects (NTDs) in offspring, which are severe birth defects of the central nervous system. The mechanism of Li2CO3-induced NTDs remains unclear. METHODS C57BL/6 mice were injected with different doses of Li2CO3 intraperitoneally on gestational day 7.5 (GD7.5), and embryos collected at GD11.5 and GD13.5. The mechanisms of Li2CO3 exposure-induced NTDs were determined utilizing immunohistochemistry, western blotting, EdU imaging, enzymatic method, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), ELISA and HE staining. RESULTS The NTDs incidence was 33.7% following Li2CO3 exposure. Neuroepithelial cell proliferation and phosphohistone H3 level were significantly increased in NTDs embryos, compared with control group (P < 0.01), while the expressing levels of p53 and caspase-3 were significantly decreased. IMPase and GSK-3β activity was inhibited in Li2CO3-treated maternal and embryonic neural tissues (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, respectively), along with decreased levels of inositol and metabolites, compared with control groups (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Lithium-induced NTDs model in C57BL/6 mice was established. Enhanced cell proliferation and decreased apoptosis following lithium exposure were closely associated with the impairment of inositol biosynthesis, which may contribute to lithium-induced NTDs. IMPACT Impairment of inositol biosynthesis has an important role in lithium exposure-induced NTDs in mice model. Lithium-induced NTDs model on C57BL/6 mice was established. Based on this NTDs model, lithium-induced impairment of inositol biosynthesis resulted in the imbalance between cell proliferation and apoptosis, which may contribute to lithium-induced NTDs. Providing evidence to further understand the molecular mechanisms of lithium-induced NTDs and enhancing its primary prevention.
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11
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Gambioli R, Forte G, Buzzaccarini G, Unfer V, Laganà AS. Myo-Inositol as a Key Supporter of Fertility and Physiological Gestation. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14060504. [PMID: 34070701 PMCID: PMC8227031 DOI: 10.3390/ph14060504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy is a complex process, featuring several necessary changes in women’s physiology. Most women undergo healthy pregnancies; even so, several women experience reduced fertility or pathologies related to the pregnancy. In the last years, researchers investigated several molecules as promoters of fertility. Among all, myo-inositol (myo-ins) represents a safe compound that proved useful in issues related to fertility and pregnancy. In fact, myo-ins participates in several signaling processes, including the pathways of insulin and gonadotropins, and, therefore, it is likely to positively affect fertility. In particular, several clinical trials demonstrate that its administration can have therapeutic effects in infertile women, and that it can also be useful as a preventive treatment during pregnancy. Particularly, myo-ins could prevent the onset of neural tube defects and the occurrence of gestational diabetes mellitus, promoting a trouble-free gestation. Due to the safety and efficiency of myo-ins, such a treatment may also substitute several pharmaceuticals, which are contraindicated in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gianpiero Forte
- R&D Department, Lo.Li. Pharma, 00156 Rome, Italy; (R.G.); (G.F.)
| | - Giovanni Buzzaccarini
- Unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Women and Children’s Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy;
| | - Vittorio Unfer
- The Experts Group on Inositol in Basic and Clinical Research (EGOI), 00161 Rome, Italy;
- System Biology Group Lab, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Antonio Simone Laganà
- The Experts Group on Inositol in Basic and Clinical Research (EGOI), 00161 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Filippo Del Ponte” Hospital, University of Insubria, 21100 Varese, Italy
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12
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Watkins OC, Yong HEJ, Sharma N, Chan SY. A review of the role of inositols in conditions of insulin dysregulation and in uncomplicated and pathological pregnancy. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2020; 62:1626-1673. [PMID: 33280430 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2020.1845604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Inositols, a group of 6-carbon polyols, are highly bioactive molecules derived from diet and endogenous synthesis. Inositols and their derivatives are involved in glucose and lipid metabolism and participate in insulin-signaling, with perturbations in inositol processing being associated with conditions involving insulin resistance, dysglycemia and dyslipidemia such as polycystic ovary syndrome and diabetes. Pregnancy is similarly characterized by substantial and complex changes in glycemic and lipidomic regulation as part of maternal adaptation and is also associated with physiological alterations in inositol processing. Disruptions in maternal adaptation are postulated to have a critical pathophysiological role in pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia. Inositol supplementation has shown promise as an intervention for the alleviation of symptoms in conditions of insulin resistance and for gestational diabetes prevention. However, the mechanisms behind these affects are not fully understood. In this review, we explore the role of inositols in conditions of insulin dysregulation and in pregnancy, and identify priority areas for research. We particularly examine the role and function of inositols within the maternal-placental-fetal axis in both uncomplicated and pathological pregnancies. We also discuss how inositols may mediate maternal-placental-fetal cross-talk, and regulate fetal growth and development, and suggest that inositols play a vital role in promoting healthy pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver C Watkins
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hannah E J Yong
- Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Neha Sharma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Shiao-Yng Chan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore, Singapore
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13
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D'Souza SW, Copp AJ, Greene NDE, Glazier JD. Maternal Inositol Status and Neural Tube Defects: A Role for the Human Yolk Sac in Embryonic Inositol Delivery? Adv Nutr 2020; 12:212-222. [PMID: 32892218 PMCID: PMC7849949 DOI: 10.1093/advances/nmaa100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Supplementation with myo-inositol during the periconceptional period of pregnancy may ameliorate the recurrence risk of having a fetus affected by a neural tube defect (NTD; e.g., spina bifida). This could be of particular importance in providing a means for preventing NTDs that are unresponsive to folic acid. This review highlights the characteristics of inositol and describes the role of myo-inositol in the prevention of NTDs in rodent studies and the evidence for its efficacy in reducing NTD risk in human pregnancy. The possible reduction in NTD risk by maternal myo-inositol implies functional and developmentally important maternal-embryonic inositol interrelationships and also suggests that embryonic uptake of myo-inositol is crucial for embryonic development. The establishment of active myo-inositol cellular uptake mechanisms in the embryonic stages of human pregnancy, when the neural tube is closing, is likely to be an important determinant of normal development. We draw attention to the generation of materno-fetal inositol concentration gradients and relationships, and outline a transport pathway by which myo-inositol may be delivered to the early developing human embryo. These considerations provide novel insights into the mechanisms that may underpin inositol's ability to confer embryonic developmental benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen W D'Souza
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew J Copp
- Newlife Birth Defects Research Centre, Developmental Biology and Cancer Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas D E Greene
- Newlife Birth Defects Research Centre, Developmental Biology and Cancer Department, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
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14
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Abstract
During embryonic development, the central nervous system forms as the neural plate and then rolls into a tube in a complex morphogenetic process known as neurulation. Neural tube defects (NTDs) occur when neurulation fails and are among the most common structural birth defects in humans. The frequency of NTDs varies greatly anywhere from 0.5 to 10 in 1000 live births, depending on the genetic background of the population, as well as a variety of environmental factors. The prognosis varies depending on the size and placement of the lesion and ranges from death to severe or moderate disability, and some NTDs are asymptomatic. This chapter reviews how mouse models have contributed to the elucidation of the genetic, molecular, and cellular basis of neural tube closure, as well as to our understanding of the causes and prevention of this devastating birth defect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene E Zohn
- Center for Genetic Medicine, Children's Research Institute, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA.
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15
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Wang X, Yue H, Li S, Guo J, Guan Z, Qin J, Zhu Z, Niu B, Cui M, Wang J. The Effects of Inositol Metabolism in Pregnant Women on Offspring in the North and South of China. Med Sci Monit 2020; 26:e921088. [PMID: 32063600 PMCID: PMC7041423 DOI: 10.12659/msm.921088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Inositol is an essential nutrient for cell growth, survival and embryonic development. Myo-inositol is the predominant form in natural. To investigate the correlation between inositol metabolism and embryonic development, we assessed the metabolic characteristics of myo-inositol, phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2) and phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5-trisphosphate (PI(3,4,5)P3) of pregnant women in the North China (Yangquan and Weihai) and South China (Nanchang and Haikou) China. Material/Methods All data were collected by face-to-face interview during pregnant women health visits using a questionnaire. Plasma levels of myo-inositol, PI(4,5)P2 and PI(3,4,5)P3 from 89 randomly collected pregnant women were detected by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. Results A total of 400 pregnant women were included in this survey. The plasma levels of myo-inositol and PI(4,5)P2 in the North China group of pregnant women were significantly higher than that in the South China group (P<0.01). The birth weight of fetuses in the North China group was heavier than that in the South China group (P<0.01). The birth length of fetuses in Yangquan was the longest among the 4 cities (P<0.01). The incidence rate of birth defects was 3.05% in the North China group, and 0.0% in the South China group. In bivariate linear correlation analysis, the body weight correlated with myo-inositol (r=0.5044, P<0.0001), PI(4,5)P2 (r=0.5950, P<0.0001) and PI(3,4,5)P3 (r=0.4710, P<0.0001), the body length was correlated with PI(4,5)P2 (r=0.3114, P=0.0035) and PI(3,4,5)P3 (r=0.2638, P<0.0130). Conclusions The plasma levels of myo-inositol and PI(4,5)P2 in pregnant women had significant difference between the North and the South of China, which might be correlated with fetal development and birth defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuwei Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China (mainland)
| | - Huixuan Yue
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China (mainland).,Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (mainland)
| | - Shen Li
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China (mainland).,Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (mainland)
| | - Jin Guo
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China (mainland)
| | - Zhen Guan
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China (mainland)
| | - Jiaxing Qin
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China (mainland)
| | - Zhiqiang Zhu
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China (mainland)
| | - Bo Niu
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China (mainland).,Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (mainland)
| | - Mingming Cui
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China (mainland)
| | - Jianhua Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China (mainland).,Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China (mainland)
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16
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Prevalence of folic acid supplement consumption before and during pregnancy, and its determinants among community health center referrals. Obstet Gynecol Sci 2019; 62:454-461. [PMID: 31777742 PMCID: PMC6856478 DOI: 10.5468/ogs.2019.62.6.454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence and determinants of folic acid supplementation among women referred to community health centers. Methods This was a cross-sectional study conducted in 325 women referred to community health centers. The subjects were selected from 8 community health centers, using a stratified sampling technique. Data regarding demographics, socioeconomic status, obstetrics, folic acid supplementation status, and household food security status were obtained via questionnaires. The data was analyzed in SPSS v22. Results The prevalence of folic acid supplementation both before and during pregnancy was 54.5%. The results of the study showed that folic acid supplementation had a significant positive association with education level (odds ratio [OR],0 .441; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.199–0.977; P<0.05), being employed (OR, 0.353; 95% CI, 0.148–0.840; P<0.05), and planned pregnancy (OR, 18.113; 95% CI, 7.371–44.51; P<0.001). However, other variables, including age, husband's age, husband's education and employment status, the number of prior pregnancies, economic satisfaction, and household food security, were nonsignificant factors affecting folic acid supplementation. Conclusion Women with lower socioeconomic status are less likely to take folic acid supplements, and more effort should be made to increase their awareness of the importance of supplementation. Unplanned pregnancy is another strong risk factor for not supplementing with folic acid, and thus should be avoided.
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17
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Amaefule CE, Drymoussi Z, Dodds J, Sweeney L, Pizzo E, Daru J, Robson J, Poston L, Khalil A, Myers J, Harden A, Hitman GA, Khan K, Zamora J, Huda MSB, Thangaratinam S. Effectiveness and acceptability of myo-inositol nutritional supplement in the prevention of gestational diabetes (EMmY): a protocol for a randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind pilot trial. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e022831. [PMID: 30249632 PMCID: PMC6157508 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-022831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2018] [Revised: 07/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gestational diabetes increases maternal and offspring complications in pregnancy and cardiovascular complications in the long term. The nutritional supplement myo-inositol may prevent gestational diabetes; however, further evaluation is required, especially in multiethnic high-risk mothers. Our pilot trial on myo-inositol to prevent gestational diabetes will evaluate trial processes, assess acceptability to mothers and obtain preliminary estimates of effect and cost data prior to a large full-scale trial. METHODS AND ANALYSIS EMmY is a multicentre, placebo-controlled, double-blind, pilot, randomised trial, with qualitative evaluation. We will recruit pregnant women at 12-15+6 weeks' gestation, with gestational diabetes risk factors, from five maternity units in England between 2018 and 2019. We will randomise 200 women to take either 2 g of myo-inositol powder (intervention) or placebo, twice daily until delivery. We will assess rates of recruitment, randomisation, adherence to intervention and follow-up. Gestational diabetes will be diagnosed at 24-28 weeks as per the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) criteria (fasting plasma glucose: ≥5.6 mmol/L and 2-hour plasma glucose: ≥7.8 mmol/L). We will assess the effects of myo-inositol on glycaemic indices at 28 weeks and on other maternal, fetal and neonatal outcomes at postnatal discharge. Qualitative evaluation will explore the acceptability of the trial and the intervention among women and healthcare professionals. Cost data and health-related quality of life measures will be captured. We will summarise feasibility outcomes using standard methods for proportions and other descriptive statistics, and where appropriate, report point estimates of effect sizes (eg, mean differences and relative risks) and associated 95% CIs. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval was obtained through the London Queen Square Research Ethics Committee (17/LO/1741). Study findings will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals. Newsletters will be made available to participants, healthcare professionals and members of Katie's Team (a patient and public advisory group) to disseminate. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN48872100. PROTOCOL VERSION AND DATE Version 4.0, 15 January 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiamaka Esther Amaefule
- Barts Research Centre for Women's Health (BARC), Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Zoe Drymoussi
- Barts Research Centre for Women's Health (BARC), Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Julie Dodds
- Barts Research Centre for Women's Health (BARC), Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Lorna Sweeney
- Institute for Health and Human Development, University of East London, London, London, UK
| | - Elena Pizzo
- Collaborations for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care (CLAHRC) for North Thames London, Department of Applied Health Research, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jahnavi Daru
- Barts Research Centre for Women's Health (BARC), Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - John Robson
- Clinical Effectiveness Group, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Lucilla Poston
- Women's Health Unit, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Asma Khalil
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, St George's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Jenny Myers
- Maternal & Fetal Health Research Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Angela Harden
- Institute for Health and Human Development, University of East London, London, London, UK
| | - Graham A Hitman
- Barts Research Centre for Women's Health (BARC), Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Khalid Khan
- Barts Research Centre for Women's Health (BARC), Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Javier Zamora
- Barts Research Centre for Women's Health (BARC), Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Clinical Biostatistics Unit (IRYCIS) and CIBER Epidemiology and Public Health, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mohammed S B Huda
- Department of Diabetes & Metabolism, Barts Health NHS Trust, Royal London Hospital, London, UK
| | - Shakila Thangaratinam
- Barts Research Centre for Women's Health (BARC), Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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18
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Senousy SM, Farag MK, Gouda AS, El Noury MA, Dabbous OA, Gaber KR. Association between biomarkers of vitamin B12 status and the risk of neural tube defects. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2018; 44:1902-1908. [DOI: 10.1111/jog.13751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sameh M. Senousy
- Prenatal Diagnosis and Fetal Medicine Department, Human Genetics and Genome Research Division; National Research Centre; Cairo Egypt
| | - Mona K. Farag
- Prenatal Diagnosis and Fetal Medicine Department, Human Genetics and Genome Research Division; National Research Centre; Cairo Egypt
| | - Amr S. Gouda
- Biochemical Genetics Department, Human Genetics and Genome Research Division; National Research Centre; Cairo Egypt
| | - Mohamed A. El Noury
- Medical Applications of Laser Department, Laser Institute; Cairo University; Cairo Egypt
| | - Ola A. Dabbous
- Medical Applications of Laser Department, Laser Institute; Cairo University; Cairo Egypt
| | - Khaled R. Gaber
- Prenatal Diagnosis and Fetal Medicine Department, Human Genetics and Genome Research Division; National Research Centre; Cairo Egypt
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19
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Morgante G, Massaro MG, Di Sabatino A, Cappelli V, De Leo V. Therapeutic approach for metabolic disorders and infertility in women with PCOS. Gynecol Endocrinol 2018; 34:4-9. [PMID: 28850273 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2017.1370644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder affecting 5-10% of women of reproductive age. It generally shows with oligo/amenorrhea, anovulatory cycles, clinical o biochemical hirsutism, polycystic ovaries and, in a significant percentage of cases, insulin resistance. PCOS is defined as a multifactorial pathology, determined by the association of many factors: genetic, endocrine and environmental. The first and most effective treatment of PCOS is to change life-style and lose weight. The use of oral contraceptives has been shown effective in reducing acne and hirsutism and regulates the menstrual cycle. For women with severe hirsutism, the addition of antiandrogens to estrogen-progestin therapy has significantly improved the results. In cases of anovulatory infertility, the drug of first choice is clomiphene citrate, followed by low-dose gonadotropins. Recently, insulin-sensitizing drugs have been widely prescribed for PCOS patients. They are particularly effective in reducing insulin resistance and improving ovulatory performance. Besides insulin-sensitizing drugs, natural substances, such as inositol, seems to have good efficacy, similar to metformin with fewer side effects. New substances that could be used include statins and natural statins, such as monakolin, alone or combined with myo-inositol. These substances do not have side effects and greatly reduce the hyperandrogenic component in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Morgante
- a Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine , University of Siena , Siena , Italy
| | - M G Massaro
- a Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine , University of Siena , Siena , Italy
| | - A Di Sabatino
- a Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine , University of Siena , Siena , Italy
| | - V Cappelli
- a Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine , University of Siena , Siena , Italy
| | - V De Leo
- a Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine , University of Siena , Siena , Italy
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20
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Kondo A, Matsuo T, Morota N, Kondo AS, Okai I, Fukuda H. Neural tube defects: Risk factors and preventive measures. Congenit Anom (Kyoto) 2017; 57:150-156. [PMID: 28425110 DOI: 10.1111/cga.12227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2017] [Revised: 04/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
For the last 25 years, it has been proven that the occurrence or recurrence of neural tube defects can be prevented with the administration of folic acid before and early pregnancy. At present, over 80 countries in the world, except Japan, have mandated the fortification of wheat flour and/or rice with folic acid, which has resulted in a significant reduction in the prevalence of neural tube defects. In 2000, the Japanese government recommended folic acid 400 μg daily for young women of childbearing age and women who are planning to conceive. In 2002, the government started to present information about the importance of folic acid in the development of fetuses in the Mother-Child Health Booklet annually. Despite these endeavors, the prevalence of neural tube defects has remained unchanged. We discuss the risk factors of neural tube defects and propose preventive measures to decrease the number of neonates with neural tube defects. We believe that the government should implement the fortification of staple food with folic acid very soon, which will eventually decrease not only the neonatal mortality and morbidity, but also the economic burden on our health care system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsuo Kondo
- Department of Urology, Atsuta Rehabilitation Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Takuya Matsuo
- Information System Center, Kinki University Faculty of Medicine, Sayama, Japan
| | - Nobuhito Morota
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tokyo Metropolitan Children's Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsuya S Kondo
- Department of Urology, Kariya Toyota General Hospital, Kariya, Japan
| | - Ikuyo Okai
- Department of Food Services, Global Arena, Munakata, Japan
| | - Hiromi Fukuda
- Department of School Health Science, Aichi University of Education, Kariya, Japan
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21
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Preconception and prenatal genetic counselling. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2017; 42:2-10. [PMID: 28533154 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2017.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2017] [Accepted: 04/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Identifying individuals at risk of having children affected by genetic conditions or congenital anomalies allows counselling that aims to inform reproductive decisions. This process takes place either at the preconception or early prenatal stage, although more options are available if risks are identified before the pregnancy. Preconception counselling covers issues that can affect the health of the mother and baby including folic acid supplementation. Carrier screening for autosomal recessive diseases, such as beta thalassaemia, has resulted in a significantly reduced incidence in many countries. National organisations, however, advocate more in-depth research before such screening recommendations apply to the general population. Recently, advances in genomic technologies have made it possible to greatly expand the scope of genetic screening, with the aim of providing more comprehensive information to prospective parents. This is a complex field, and research should focus on how the technology can be put to best use in the future.
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Greene NDE, Leung KY, Copp AJ. Inositol, neural tube closure and the prevention of neural tube defects. Birth Defects Res 2017; 109:68-80. [PMID: 27324558 PMCID: PMC5353661 DOI: 10.1002/bdra.23533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Revised: 04/24/2016] [Accepted: 05/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Susceptibility to neural tube defects (NTDs), such as anencephaly and spina bifida is influenced by genetic and environmental factors including maternal nutrition. Maternal periconceptional supplementation with folic acid significantly reduces the risk of an NTD-affected pregnancy, but does not prevent all NTDs, and "folic acid non-responsive" NTDs continue to occur. Similarly, among mouse models of NTDs, some are responsive to folic acid but others are not. Among nutritional factors, inositol deficiency causes cranial NTDs in mice while supplemental inositol prevents spinal and cranial NTDs in the curly tail (Grhl3 hypomorph) mouse, rodent models of hyperglycemia or induced diabetes, and in a folate-deficiency induced NTD model. NTDs also occur in mice lacking expression of certain inositol kinases. Inositol-containing phospholipids (phosphoinositides) and soluble inositol phosphates mediate a range of functions, including intracellular signaling, interaction with cytoskeletal proteins, and regulation of membrane identity in trafficking and cell division. Myo-inositol has been trialed in humans for a range of conditions and appears safe for use in human pregnancy. In pilot studies in Italy and the United Kingdom, women took inositol together with folic acid preconceptionally, after one or more previous NTD-affected pregnancies. In nonrandomized cohorts and a randomized double-blind study in the United Kingdom, no recurrent NTDs were observed among 52 pregnancies reported to date. Larger-scale fully powered trials are needed to determine whether supplementation with inositol and folic acid would more effectively prevent NTDs than folic acid alone. Birth Defects Research 109:68-80, 2017. © 2016 The Authors Birth Defects Research Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas D E Greene
- Newlife Birth Defects Research Centre and Developmental Biology & Cancer Programme, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kit-Yi Leung
- Newlife Birth Defects Research Centre and Developmental Biology & Cancer Programme, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew J Copp
- Newlife Birth Defects Research Centre and Developmental Biology & Cancer Programme, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Cavalli P, Ronda E. Myoinositol: The Bridge (PONTI) to Reach a Healthy Pregnancy. Int J Endocrinol 2017; 2017:5846286. [PMID: 28243254 PMCID: PMC5274721 DOI: 10.1155/2017/5846286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 11/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of folic acid in the periconceptional period can prevent about 70% of neural tube defects (NTDs). In the remaining cases, no medical prevention is available, and those conditions should be defined as folate-resistant NTDs. Rodent models suggest that some folate-resistant NTDs can be prevented by inositol (myoinositol and chiroinositol) supplementation prior to pregnancy. Should folic acid be combined with myoinositol periconceptional supplementation to reduce the overall risk of NTDs even in humans? Hereafter, we discuss the results from the PONTI study that strongly support both the effectiveness and safety of myoinositol periconceptional supplementation in preventing human NTDs. We further report on the largest case series of pregnancies treated with myoinositol and folic acid. At our institution, a sequential study during 12 years involved mothers at risk of fetal NTDs, and 29 babies from 27 pregnancies were born after periconceptional combined myoinositol and folic acid supplementation. No case of NTDs was observed, despite the high recurrence risk in the mothers. Taken together, those data suggest that periconceptional folic acid plus myoinositol can reduce both the occurrence and recurrence risks of NTDs in a greater number of cases than folic acid alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Cavalli
- Clinical Genetics, ASST Cremona, Via Concordia 1, 26100 Cremona, Italy
- *Pietro Cavalli:
| | - Elena Ronda
- Clinical Genetics, ASST Cremona, Via Concordia 1, 26100 Cremona, Italy
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Guo J, Shi Y, Xu C, Zhong R, Zhang F, Zhang T, Niu B, Wang J. Quantification of plasma myo-inositol using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Clin Chim Acta 2016; 460:88-92. [PMID: 27342997 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2016.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Revised: 06/17/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myo-inositol (MI) deficiency is associated with an increased risk for neural tube defects (NTDs), mental disorders and metabolic diseases. We developed a gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method to detect MI in human plasma, which was accurate, relatively efficient and convenient for clinical application. METHODS An external standard method was used for determination of plasma MI. Samples were analyzed by GC-MS after derivatization. The stable-isotope labeled internal standard approach was used to validate the method's accuracy. Alpha fetal protein (AFP) was detected by chemiluminescence immunoassay. RESULTS The method was validated by determining the linearity, sensitivity and recovery rate. There was a good agreement between the internal standard approach and the present method. The NTD-affected pregnancies showed lower plasma MI (P=0.024) and higher AFP levels (P=0.001) than control. Maternal MI level showed a better discrimination in spina bifida subgroup, while AFP level showed a better discrimination in anencephaly subgroup after stratification analysis. CONCLUSIONS We developed a sensitive and reliable method for the detection of clinical plasma MI, which might be a marker for NTDs screening, and established fundamental knowledge for clinical diagnosis and prevention for the diseases related to disturbed MI metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Guo
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Yingfei Shi
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental & Viral Oncology, College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Chengbao Xu
- Chinese Academy of Inspection & Quarantine, Beijing 100023, China
| | - Rugang Zhong
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental & Viral Oncology, College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Chinese Academy of Inspection & Quarantine, Beijing 100023, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Bo Niu
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, China.
| | - Jianhua Wang
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing 100020, China.
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Abstract
Although peri-conceptional folic acid (FA) supplementation can prevent a proportion of neural tube defects (NTD), there is increasing evidence that many NTD are FA non-responsive. The vitamin-like molecule inositol may offer a novel approach to preventing FA-non-responsive NTD. Inositol prevented NTD in a genetic mouse model, and was well tolerated by women in a small study of NTD recurrence. In the present study, we report the Prevention of Neural Tube Defects by Inositol (PONTI) pilot study designed to gain further experience of inositol usage in human pregnancy as a preliminary trial to a future large-scale controlled trial to evaluate efficacy of inositol in NTD prevention. Study subjects were UK women with a previous NTD pregnancy who planned to become pregnant again. Of 117 women who made contact, ninety-nine proved eligible and forty-seven agreed to be randomised (double-blind) to peri-conceptional supplementation with inositol plus FA or placebo plus FA. In total, thirty-three randomised pregnancies produced one NTD recurrence in the placebo plus FA group (n 19) and no recurrences in the inositol plus FA group (n 14). Of fifty-two women who declined randomisation, the peri-conceptional supplementation regimen and outcomes of twenty-two further pregnancies were documented. Two NTD recurred, both in women who took only FA in their next pregnancy. No adverse pregnancy events were associated with inositol supplementation. The findings of the PONTI pilot study encourage a large-scale controlled trial of inositol for NTD prevention, but indicate the need for a careful study design in view of the unwillingness of many high-risk women to be randomised.
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Facchinetti F, Bizzarri M, Benvenga S, D’Anna R, Lanzone A, Soulage C, Di Renzo GC, Hod M, Cavalli P, Chiu TT, Kamenov ZA, Bevilacqua A, Carlomagno G, Gerli S, Oliva MM, Devroey P. Results from the International Consensus Conference on Myo-inositol and d-chiro-inositol in Obstetrics and Gynecology: the link between metabolic syndrome and PCOS. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2015; 195:72-76. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2015.09.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Revised: 09/11/2015] [Accepted: 09/17/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Noventa M, Vitagliano A, Quaranta M, Borgato S, Abdulrahim B, Gizzo S. Preventive and Therapeutic Role of Dietary Inositol Supplementation in Periconceptional Period and During Pregnancy. Reprod Sci 2015; 23:278-88. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719115594018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Noventa
- Department of Woman and Child Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Michela Quaranta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Shara Borgato
- Department of Woman and Child Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Baydaa Abdulrahim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NHS Trust, Northampton General Hospital, Northampton, United Kingdom
| | - Salvatore Gizzo
- Department of Woman and Child Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NHS Trust, Northampton General Hospital, Northampton, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Spina bifida is a birth defect in which the vertebral column is open, often with spinal cord involvement. The most clinically significant subtype is myelomeningocele (open spina bifida), which is a condition characterized by failure of the lumbosacral spinal neural tube to close during embryonic development. The exposed neural tissue degenerates in utero, resulting in neurological deficit that varies with the level of the lesion. Occurring in approximately 1 per 1,000 births worldwide, myelomeningocele is one of the most common congenital malformations, but its cause is largely unknown. The genetic component is estimated at 60-70%, but few causative genes have been identified to date, despite much information from mouse models. Non-genetic maternal risk factors include reduced folate intake, anticonvulsant therapy, diabetes mellitus and obesity. Primary prevention by periconceptional supplementation with folic acid has been demonstrated in clinical trials, leading to food fortification programmes in many countries. Prenatal diagnosis is achieved by ultrasonography, enabling women to seek termination of pregnancy. Individuals who survive to birth have their lesions closed surgically, with subsequent management of associated defects, including the Chiari II brain malformation, hydrocephalus, and urological and orthopaedic sequelae. Fetal surgical repair of myelomeningocele has been associated with improved early neurological outcome compared with postnatal operation. Myelomeningocele affects quality of life during childhood, adolescence and adulthood, posing a challenge for individuals, families and society as a whole. For an illustrated summary of this Primer, visit: http://go.nature.com/fK9XNa.
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Momb J, Appling DR. Mitochondrial one-carbon metabolism and neural tube defects. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 100:576-83. [PMID: 24985542 DOI: 10.1002/bdra.23268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2014] [Revised: 05/02/2014] [Accepted: 05/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neural tube defects (NTDs) are one of the most common birth defects in humans. Maternal intake of folic acid was linked to prevention of NTDs in the 1970s. This realization led to the establishment of mandatory and/or voluntary food folic acid fortification programs in many countries that have reduced the incidence of NTDs by up to 70% in humans. Despite 40 years of intensive research, the biochemical mechanisms underlying the protective effects of folic acid remain unknown. RESULTS Recent research reveals a role for mitochondrial folate-dependent one-carbon metabolism in neural tube closure. CONCLUSION In this article, we review the evidence linking NTDs to aberrant mitochondrial one-carbon metabolism in humans and mouse models. The potential of formate, a product of mitochondrial one-carbon metabolism, to prevent NTDs is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Momb
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
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Kappen C. Modeling anterior development in mice: diet as modulator of risk for neural tube defects. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS. PART C, SEMINARS IN MEDICAL GENETICS 2013; 163C:333-56. [PMID: 24124024 PMCID: PMC4149464 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.c.31380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Head morphogenesis is a complex process that is controlled by multiple signaling centers. The most common defects of cranial development are craniofacial defects, such as cleft lip and cleft palate, and neural tube defects, such as anencephaly and encephalocoele in humans. More than 400 genes that contribute to proper neural tube closure have been identified in experimental animals, but only very few causative gene mutations have been identified in humans, supporting the notion that environmental influences are critical. The intrauterine environment is influenced by maternal nutrition, and hence, maternal diet can modulate the risk for cranial and neural tube defects. This article reviews recent progress toward a better understanding of nutrients during pregnancy, with particular focus on mouse models for defective neural tube closure. At least four major patterns of nutrient responses are apparent, suggesting that multiple pathways are involved in the response, and likely in the underlying pathogenesis of the defects. Folic acid has been the most widely studied nutrient, and the diverse responses of the mouse models to folic acid supplementation indicate that folic acid is not universally beneficial, but that the effect is dependent on genetic configuration. If this is the case for other nutrients as well, efforts to prevent neural tube defects with nutritional supplementation may need to become more specifically targeted than previously appreciated. Mouse models are indispensable for a better understanding of nutrient-gene interactions in normal pregnancies, as well as in those affected by metabolic diseases, such as diabetes and obesity.
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31
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Zohn IE. Mouse as a model for multifactorial inheritance of neural tube defects. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 96:193-205. [PMID: 22692891 DOI: 10.1002/bdrc.21011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) such as spina bifida and anencephaly are some of the most common structural birth defects found in humans. These defects occur due to failures of neurulation, a process where the flat neural plate rolls into a tube. In spite of their prevalence, the causes of NTDs are poorly understood. The multifactorial threshold model best describes the pattern of inheritance of NTDs where multiple undefined gene variants interact with environmental factors to cause an NTD. To date, mouse models have implicated a multitude of genes as required for neurulation, providing a mechanistic understanding of the cellular and molecular pathways that control neurulation. However, the majority of these mouse models exhibit NTDs with a Mendelian pattern of inheritance. Still, many examples of multifactorial inheritance have been demonstrated in mouse models of NTDs. These include null and hypomorphic alleles of neurulation genes that interact in a complex fashion with other genetic mutations or environmental factors to cause NTDs. These models have implicated several genes and pathways for testing as candidates for the genetic basis of NTDs in humans, resulting in identification of putative pathogenic mutations in some patients. Mouse models also provide an experimental paradigm to gain a mechanistic understanding of the environmental factors that influence NTD occurrence, such as folic acid and maternal diabetes, and have led to the discovery of additional preventative nutritional supplements such as inositol. This review provides examples of how multifactorial inheritance of NTDs can be modeled in the mouse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene E Zohn
- Center for Neuroscience Research, Children's Research Institute, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA.
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32
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De Grazia S, Carlomagno G, Unfer V, Cavalli P. Myo-inositol soft gel capsules may prevent the risk of coffee-induced neural tube defects. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2012; 9:1033-9. [DOI: 10.1517/17425247.2012.701616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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