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Liang Y, Hou X, Chen H, Yang R, Wang R, Mao R, Zhao J, Chen H, Cheng J. Assisted Reproductive Technology Outcomes in Women with Normal Ovarian Response Receiving Recombinant Luteinizing Hormone/Human Menopausal Gonadotropin: An Observational Study. Int J Womens Health 2024; 16:1103-1111. [PMID: 38895039 PMCID: PMC11185249 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s454410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Additive human menopausal gonadotropin (HMG)/recombinant luteinizing hormone (r-LH) to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) can improve pregnancy outcomes in patients with poor ovarian response during assisted reproductive procedures. However, their effects on patients with normal ovarian response during such procedures are unclear, which formed the aim of this study. Methods This retrospective study enrolled 456 infertile women who underwent in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection treatment. Group 1 received FSH; Group 2 received FSH+HMG/r-LH; Group 3 received FSH+HMG+r-LH. Results The age and Body Mass Index were significantly greater in Group III. The endometrial thickness was greater in Groups II and III, suggesting better endometrial receptivity. Better pregnancy and birth outcomes were seen in Group 3. In sub-cohorts of women older than 32 years old or with overweight/obesity, pregnancy and birth outcomes were also much better in Group 3, albeit without statistical significance. Conclusion The addition of both HMG and r-LH to FSH may improve the chance of infertile women with normal ovarian responses to have more success in having live birth babies, specifically in those over 32 years of age or with overweight/obese patients who typically face challenges in conceiving and sustaining a pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingxiu Liang
- Reproductive Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325088, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaohong Hou
- Reproductive Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325088, People’s Republic of China
| | - Haoying Chen
- Reproductive Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325088, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ruqing Yang
- Reproductive Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325088, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ruina Wang
- Reproductive Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325088, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ruotong Mao
- Reproductive Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325088, People’s Republic of China
| | - Junzhao Zhao
- Reproductive Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325088, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hui Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, New South Wales, 2007, Australia
| | - Jing Cheng
- Reproductive Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325088, People’s Republic of China
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Salehpour S, Aleyasin A, Moini A, Mousavifar N, Mohammadhossein N, Abdollahi Fard S, Marzie S, Mohammadzadeh M, Fischer R. Luteinizing hormone supplementation in controlled ovarian stimulation: the Iran Delphi consensus. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2024; 6:1397446. [PMID: 38784124 PMCID: PMC11111922 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2024.1397446] [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: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Numerous consensus documents worldwide address luteinizing hormone (LH) supplementation in controlled ovarian stimulation, yet to the best of our knowledge, only one consensus paper has been published in the Arab region. This study presents a Delphi consensus by seven Iranian infertility experts, offering real-world clinical perspectives. The aim was to develop evidence-based opinions on LH's role alongside FSH in various aspects of assisted reproductive technology (ART), including LH levels, monitoring, r-hLH use, and suggested activity. Methods Employing the Delphi consensus approach, the Iran consensus unfolded in three steps. In Step 1, eight out of 10 statements gained approval, while two unclear statements were removed. In Step 2, the 20-member extended panel voted on the remaining eight statements. Results Only one (statement 3) lacked consensus (55% agreement), prompting a modification. The revised statement (noted as statement 3') obtained an 83% agreement. Discussion The clinical perspectives included in this consensus complement clinical guidelines and policies that help further improve treatment outcomes, especially for patients with FSH and LH deficiencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saghar Salehpour
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ashraf Aleyasin
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Tehran Medical Science University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ashraf Moini
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Arash Women's Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Breast Disease Research Center (BDRC), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nezhat Mousavifar
- Armaghan Infertility Center, Mashhad Medical Science University, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Nasresfahani Mohammadhossein
- Animal Biotechnology Department, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
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Liang L, Yang Y, Yang L, Zhang X, Xu S, Liu Y, Wu X, Chao L. HIF-1α is positively associated with endometrial receptivity by regulating PKM2. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2023; 49:2734-2745. [PMID: 37533344 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Numerous advancements have been introduced into the field of assisted reproductive technology (ART) in the past four decades. Nonetheless, implantation failure is still a key limiting step for a successful pregnancy. Building of endometrial receptivity (ER) is essential for successful implantation. However, the fundamental biological processes and mechanisms of ER remain elusive. Our study investigates the function of hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) during ER establishment and shed lights on the novel molecular mechanism by which HIF-1α regulates ER-related gene expression network. METHODS Levels of HIF-1α, homeobox A10 (HOXA10), insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 1 (IGFBP1), pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2), and lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) in endometrial tissues were measured via real-time PCR, immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry. The correlation between HIF-1α and HOXA10, IGFBP1, PKM2, LDHA were analyzed separately. Ishikawa cells were treated with vector HIF-1α, HIF-1α-siRNA, and PKM2-siRNA. After transfection, the levels of HOXA10, IGFBP1, LDHA, and PKM2 were measured via real-time PCR and immunoblotting, and the lactate concentrations and cell migration of Ishikawa cells were measured. RESULTS Levels of HIF-1α, IGFBP1, HOXA10, LDHA, and PKM2 were significantly decreased in recurrent implantation failure (RIF) patients and levels of HOXA10, IGFBP1, PKM2, and LDHA were correlated with HIF-1α in endometrium. Then in a cellular model established by HIF-1α vector and HIF-1α-siRNA, the expression of HOXA10, IGFBP1, LDHA, PKM2, and lactate concentrations were dramatically upregulated and downregulated. And the expression of HOXA10, and IGFBP1 were dramatically decreased by PKM2-siRNA. CONCLUSIONS HIF-1α plays a crucial role in the building of ER through regulating glycolysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixia Liang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center of Shanxi, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiuping Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center of Shanxi, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Suming Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center of Shanxi, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanling Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center of Shanxi, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Xueqing Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center of Shanxi, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Lan Chao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
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Hidalgo AI, Ulloa-Leal C, Gajardo G, López G, Carretta D, Burgos RA, Ratto M. Ovulation Induced by Intrauterine Seminal Plasma Increases Total Protein, PGE2, IL-8, and IL-1β in Uterine Fluid of Llamas ( Lama glama). Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13040554. [PMID: 36830341 PMCID: PMC9951705 DOI: 10.3390/ani13040554] [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: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The establishment of a state of immunotolerance in the female reproductive tract is important for embryo development, implantation and placentation. Llamas are induced ovulators and more than 98% of pregnancies occur in the left uterine horn. The objective of this study was to determine the uterine immune response of llamas in different stages of the reproductive cycle. Adult llamas (n = 20) were examined daily by transrectal ultrasonography to determine follicular growth and then randomly assigned to four groups: Follicular phase (n = 5); Luteal phase induced by an intramuscular administration of 50 ug of GnRH analogue (n = 5); Luteal phase induced by intrauterine infusion of seminal plasma (n = 5); and Luteal phase induced by mating (n = 5). Uterine fluid was collected separately from both uterine horns by non-surgical flushing to determine the presence of cells, total proteins and concentration of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IFN γ, TNF-α and PGE2. Inflammatory cells were not observed in the uterine fluid and total protein pattern and inflammatory mediators did not differ between the left and the right horn amongst groups. Llamas treated with an intrauterine infusion of seminal plasma showed the highest concentration of total proteins, inflammatory cytokines PGE2, IL-8 and IL-1β in the uterine fluid. In conclusion, seminal plasma is made up of significant numbers of signaling molecules that are able to modify the uterine immune response in llamas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Isabel Hidalgo
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Institute of Animal Science, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile
- Correspondence:
| | - Cesar Ulloa-Leal
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Institute of Animal Science, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile
| | - Gonzalo Gajardo
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Institute of Animal Science, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile
| | - Gerardo López
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Institute of Animal Science, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile
| | - Daniella Carretta
- Laboratory of Inflammation Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Institute of Pharmacology and Morphophysiology, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile
- Laboratory of Immunometabolism, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Institute of Pharmacology and Morphophysiology, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile
| | - Rafael Agustín Burgos
- Laboratory of Inflammation Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Institute of Pharmacology and Morphophysiology, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile
- Laboratory of Immunometabolism, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Institute of Pharmacology and Morphophysiology, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile
| | - Marcelo Ratto
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Institute of Animal Science, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile
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Wang M, Huang R, Liang X, Mao Y, Shi W, Li Q. Recombinant LH supplementation improves cumulative live birth rates in the GnRH antagonist protocol: a multicenter retrospective study using a propensity score-matching analysis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:114. [PMID: 35941630 PMCID: PMC9358814 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00985-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 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: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Luteinizing hormone (LH) is critical in follicle growth and oocyte maturation. However, the value of recombinant LH (r-LH) supplementation to recombinant follicle stimulating hormone (r-FSH) during controlled ovarian stimulation in the gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist regimen is controversial. METHODS This multicenter retrospective cohort study recruited 899 GnRH antagonist cycles stimulated with r-LH and r-FSH in 3 reproductive centers and matched them to 2652 r-FSH stimulating cycles using propensity score matching (PSM) for potential confounders in a 1:3 ratio. The primary outcome was the cumulative live birth rate (CLBR) per complete cycle. RESULTS The baseline characteristics were comparable in the r-FSH/r-LH and r-FSH groups after PSM. The r-FSH/r-LH group achieved a higher CLBR than the r-FSH group (66.95% vs. 61.16%, p = 0.006). R-LH supplementation also resulted in a higher 2-pronuclear embryo rate, usable embryo rate, and live birth rate in both fresh embryo transfer cycles and frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles. No significant differences were found in the rate of moderate and severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), or cycle cancellation rate in the prevention of OHSS. CONCLUSIONS R-LH supplementation to r-FSH in the GnRH antagonist protocol was significantly associated with a higher CLBR and live birth rate in fresh and FET cycles, and improved embryo quality without increasing the OHSS rate and cycle cancellation rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Rui Huang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Xiaoyan Liang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Yundong Mao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center of Clinical Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Wenhao Shi
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Northwest Women's and Children's Hospital, Xi'an 710000, China
| | - Qian Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510000, China.
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6
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Park SR, Kim SK, Kim SR, Park JR, Lim S, Hong IS. Novel roles of luteinizing hormone (LH) in tissue regeneration-associated functions in endometrial stem cells. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:605. [PMID: 35831270 PMCID: PMC9279474 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05054-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Luteinizing hormone (LH) stimulates the synthesis and secretion of the key steroid hormone estrogen, which subsequently promotes ovarian follicular growth and development. Therefore, the administration of exogenous LH to achieve superovulation (multiple ovulations) and an LH surge is commonly used as the most effective therapeutic option in a majority of in vitro fertilization (IVF) clinics. However, a relatively low pregnancy rate (between 20% and 35%) is one of the most challenging aspects of LH-based infertility treatment. Furthermore, the major cause of this low pregnancy rate in LH-based infertility treatment remains unidentified. Recent studies have shown that endometrial stem cell loss or deficiency can significantly decrease tissue regeneration ability during the menstrual cycle and reduce endometrial receptivity. In this context, we postulated that the low pregnancy rates following LH-based ovarian hyperactivation may be the result of the adverse effects of consecutive exogenous LH administration on endometrial stem cells. To the best of our knowledge, this study revealed for the first time that in addition to its previously reported roles in stimulating ovarian functions through the pituitary-gonadal axis, LH brings about the extragonadal suppression of various tissue regeneration-associated functions in endometrial stem cells, such as self-renewal, migration ability, multilineage differentiation potential, and pluripotency/stemness, by inhibiting pro-survival Akt and ERK1/2 signaling pathways in vitro and in vivo, and as a consequence, it decreases the endometrial receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Se-Ra Park
- grid.256155.00000 0004 0647 2973Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon, 21999 Republic of Korea ,grid.256155.00000 0004 0647 2973Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, 406-840 Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Kwan Kim
- grid.256155.00000 0004 0647 2973Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon, 21999 Republic of Korea ,grid.256155.00000 0004 0647 2973Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, 406-840 Republic of Korea
| | - Soo-Rim Kim
- grid.256155.00000 0004 0647 2973Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon, 21999 Republic of Korea ,grid.256155.00000 0004 0647 2973Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, 406-840 Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Ran Park
- grid.412010.60000 0001 0707 9039Division of Science Education, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341 Republic of Korea
| | - Soyi Lim
- grid.411653.40000 0004 0647 2885Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - In-Sun Hong
- grid.256155.00000 0004 0647 2973Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon, 21999 Republic of Korea ,grid.256155.00000 0004 0647 2973Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Gachon University, Incheon, 406-840 Republic of Korea
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Canosa S, Carosso AR, Mercaldo N, Ruffa A, Evangelista F, Bongioanni F, Benedetto C, Revelli A, Gennarelli G. Effect of rLH Supplementation during Controlled Ovarian Stimulation for IVF: Evidence from a Retrospective Analysis of 1470 Poor/Suboptimal/Normal Responders Receiving Either rFSH plus rLH or rFSH Alone. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11061575. [PMID: 35329901 PMCID: PMC8954443 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11061575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
We retrospectively studied a real-life population of 1470 women undergoing IVF, with poor/suboptimal/normal ovarian responsiveness to controlled ovarian stimulation (COS), comparing the cumulative live birth rate (cLBR) when COS was performed using rFSH alone or rFSH + rLH in a 2:1 ratio. Overall, we observed significantly higher cLBR in the rFSH alone group than in the rFSH + rLH group (29.3% vs. 22.2%, p < 0.01). However, considering only suboptimal/poor responders (n = 309), we observed comparable cLBR (15.6% vs. 15.2%, p = 0.95) despite the fact that patients receiving rFSH + rLH had significantly higher ages and worse ovarian reserve markers. The equivalent effectiveness of rFSH + rLH and rFSH alone was further confirmed after stratification according to the number of oocytes retrieved: despite basal characteristics were still in favor of rFSH alone group, the cLBR always resulted comparable. Even subdividing patients according to the POSEIDON classification, irrespective of differences in the baseline clinical characteristics in favor of FSH alone group, the cLBR resulted comparable in all subgroups. Despite the retrospective, real-life analysis, our data suggest that rLH supplementation in COS may represent a reasonable option for patients with predictable or unexpected poor/suboptimal ovarian responsiveness to FSH, those matching the Bologna criteria for poor responsiveness, and those included in the POSEIDON classification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Canosa
- Obstetrics and Gynecology 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant’Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.C.); (N.M.); (A.R.); (F.E.); (C.B.); (G.G.)
- Livet, GeneraLife IVF, 10126 Turin, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Andrea Roberto Carosso
- Obstetrics and Gynecology 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant’Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.C.); (N.M.); (A.R.); (F.E.); (C.B.); (G.G.)
| | - Noemi Mercaldo
- Obstetrics and Gynecology 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant’Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.C.); (N.M.); (A.R.); (F.E.); (C.B.); (G.G.)
| | - Alessandro Ruffa
- Obstetrics and Gynecology 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant’Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.C.); (N.M.); (A.R.); (F.E.); (C.B.); (G.G.)
| | - Francesca Evangelista
- Obstetrics and Gynecology 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant’Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.C.); (N.M.); (A.R.); (F.E.); (C.B.); (G.G.)
- Livet, GeneraLife IVF, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | | | - Chiara Benedetto
- Obstetrics and Gynecology 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant’Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.C.); (N.M.); (A.R.); (F.E.); (C.B.); (G.G.)
| | - Alberto Revelli
- Obstetrics and Gynecology 2U, Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant’Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Gianluca Gennarelli
- Obstetrics and Gynecology 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant’Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.C.); (N.M.); (A.R.); (F.E.); (C.B.); (G.G.)
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Conforti A, Carbone L, Iorio GG, Cariati F, Bagnulo F, Marrone V, Strina I, Alviggi C. Luteal Phase Support Using Subcutaneous Progesterone: A Systematic Review. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2021; 3:634813. [PMID: 36303972 PMCID: PMC9580777 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.634813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 09/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Luteal phase support (LPS) is crucial in assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles when the luteal phase has been found to be defective. Such deficiency is most likely related to the supraphysiological steroid levels that usually occurr in stimulated cycles which, in turn, could severely affect luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion and function, thereby negatively influencing the luteal phase. A number of different medications and routes have been successfully used for LPS in ART. Although an optimal protocol has not yet been identified, the existing plethora of medications offer the opportunity to personalize LPS according to individual needs. Subcutaneous administration progesterone has been proposed for LPS and could represent an alternative to a vaginal and intramuscular route. The aim of the present systematic review is to summarize the evidence found in the literature concerning the application of subcutaneous progesterone in ARTs, highlighting the benefits and limits of this novel strategy. With this aim in mind, we carried out systematic research in the Medline, ISI Web of Knowledge, and Embase databases from their inception through to November 2020. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were preferred by the authors in the elaboration of this article, although case-control and cohort studies have also been considered. According to our findings, evidence exists which supports that, in women with a good prognosis undergoing a fresh in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle, subcutaneous Pg is not inferior to vaginal products. In the Frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycle, data concerning efficacy is mixed with an increased miscarriage rate in women undergoing a subcutaneous route in oocyte donor recipients. Data concerning the acceptance of the subcutaneous route versus the vaginal route are encouraging despite the different scales and questionnaires which were used. In addition, a cost-effective analysis has not yet been conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Conforti
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Carbone
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Gabriele Iorio
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Ida Strina
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Alviggi
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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9
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Conforti A, Esteves SC, Humaidan P, Longobardi S, D'Hooghe T, Orvieto R, Vaiarelli A, Cimadomo D, Rienzi L, Ubaldi FM, Zullo F, Alviggi C. Recombinant human luteinizing hormone co-treatment in ovarian stimulation for assisted reproductive technology in women of advanced reproductive age: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:91. [PMID: 34154604 PMCID: PMC8215738 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00759-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Several studies suggest that luteinizing hormone (LH) could improve IVF outcome in women of advanced reproductive age by optimizing androgen production. In this review, we assessed the role of recombinant-human LH (r-hLH) and recombinant human follicle stimulating hormone (r-hFSH) co-treatment in ovarian stimulation for assisted reproductive technology in women of advanced reproductive age candidates for assisted reproduction. MATERIAL AND METHODS Using a preregistered protocol we systematically searched Medline/PubMed, Scopus and the ISI Web of Science databases to identify randomized controlled trials in which r-hFSH monotherapy protocols were compared with r-hFSH/r-hLH co-treatment in women ≥35 years undergoing fresh IVF cycles. We calculated the pooled odds ratio (OR) for dichotomous data and the weight mean difference (WMD) for continuous data with an associated 95% confidence interval (CI). The meta-analyses were conducted using the random-effect model. P values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Subgroup analyses of all primary and secondary outcomes were performed only in women aged 35-40 years. RESULTS Twelve studies were identified. In women aged between 35 and 40 years, r-hFSH/r-hLH co-treatment was associated with higher clinical pregnancy rates (OR 1.45, CI 95% 1.05-2.00, I2 = 0%, P = 0.03) and implantation rates (OR 1.49, CI 95% 1.10-2.01, I2 = 13%, P = 0.01) versus r-hFSH monotherapy. Fewer oocytes were retrieved in r-hFSH/r-hLH-treated patients than in r-hFSH-treated patients both in women aged ≥35 years (WMD -0.82 CI 95% -1.40 to - 0.24, I2 = 88%, P = 0.005) and in those aged between 35 and 40 years (WMD -1.03, CI - 1.89 to - 0.17, I2 = 0%, P = 0.02). The number of metaphase II oocytes, miscarriage rates and live birth rates did not differ between the two groups of women overall or in subgroup analysis. CONCLUSION Although more oocytes were retrieved in patients who underwent r-hFSH monotherapy, this meta-analysis suggests that r-hFSH/r-hLH co-treatment improves clinical pregnancy and implantation rates in women between 35 and 40 years of age undergoing ovarian stimulation for assisted reproduction technology. However, more RCTs using narrower age ranges in advanced age women are warranted to corroborate these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Conforti
- University of Naples Federico II, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, Brazil
- Department of Surgery, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Peter Humaidan
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive, Denmark
| | | | - Thomas D'Hooghe
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences Group, KU Leuven (University of Leuven), Merck, Leuven, Belgium
- KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Raoul Orvieto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
- The Tarnesby-Tarnowski Chair for Family Planning and Fertility Regulation, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Alberto Vaiarelli
- Clinica Valle Giulia, G.EN.E.R.A. Centers for Reproductive Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Danilo Cimadomo
- Clinica Valle Giulia, G.EN.E.R.A. Centers for Reproductive Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Rienzi
- Clinica Valle Giulia, G.EN.E.R.A. Centers for Reproductive Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Filippo Maria Ubaldi
- Clinica Valle Giulia, G.EN.E.R.A. Centers for Reproductive Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Fulvio Zullo
- University of Naples Federico II, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Alviggi
- University of Naples Federico II, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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