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Wang Z, Liu D, Nie Y, Zhang Q. Cai's prescription inhibits granulosa cell apoptosis through ARHGAP4 on poor ovarian responders. J Ovarian Res 2024; 17:40. [PMID: 38355537 PMCID: PMC10865665 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-024-01363-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Poor ovarian response (POR) is a big challenge for in vitro fertilization. The traditional Chinese medicine, Cai's Prescription of Tonifying Kidney and Strengthening Vitals (Cai's Prescription) has yielded satisfactory results for POR treatment clinically, but systematic scientific research of Cai's Prescription is not well reported. This study aimed to investigate the clinical effect of Cai's Prescription on poor ovarian responders and its biological mechanism. METHODS Serum was collected from poor ovarian responders, and IL-1β, INFγ, FSH, E2 and AMH levels were analyzed by ELISA. Ovarian antral follicles were identified and counted using transvaginal ultrasound. The embryo quality grading were done on day 3 after retrieval. We used high-throughput sequencing of granulosa cells to investigate the gene transcription patterns of ovarian granulosa cells in poor ovarian responders after Cai's Prescription pretreatment. The expression level of ARHGAP4 was analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR and western blot. The effects of ARHGAP4 for granulosa cells were analyzed by CCK-8 assay, annexin-V and PI staining, ELISA and western blot. The effects of Cai's Prescription on the expression of PI3K-Akt pathway and apoptosis were analyzed by western blot. RESULTS In this study, we found that Cai's Prescription pretreatment had the tendency to improve the ovarian reserve function and could increase the number of high quality embryos for poor ovarian responders. Through high-throughput sequencing of mRNA in granulosa cells, we discovered ARHGAP4, which is a member of GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs) may be a candidate target for POR treatment. ARHGAP4 was significantly increased in poor ovarian responders and can be recovered after Cai's Prescription pretreatment. Mechanically, combining the cell line model and clinical tissue samples, we found that ARHGAP4 can accelerate cell apoptosis and inflammation response in granulosa cells via PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. In addition, Cai's Prescription pretreatment for three months significantly reduced the high level of ARHGAP4 in poor ovarian responders. CONCLUSION This study shows that the traditional Chinese medicine, Cai's Prescription yielded satisfactory results for poor ovarian responders clinically and ARHGAP4 may be a candidate target for POR treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Wang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
| | - Denghao Liu
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Yonghong Nie
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Qinhua Zhang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
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Hyun JY, Jung HS, Park JY. Herbal therapeutics for female infertility: A systematic review and meta-analysis. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 319:117258. [PMID: 37778518 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Infertility is a global public health issue related to gynecological diseases and psychological disorders such as stress, depression, and fatigue. Prescriptions of various herbs in traditional East Asian medicine (TEAM) have recently gained attention among patients as a complementary alternative therapy for female infertility. However, studies on systemic analysis of the use of herbal medicines according to TEAM patterns or the therapeutic effects of herbal medicines on female infertility are limited. AIM OF THE STUDY We aimed to systematically investigate the single herb and TEAM patterns that are commonly used for treating female infertility using network analysis. Additionally, we performed a meta-analysis to assess the effect of herbal medicine on the pregnancy rate in women with infertility. MATERIALS AND METHODS PubMed, EMBASE, Korean Studies Information Service System, Science ON, Research Information Sharing Service, and Oriental Medicine Advanced Searching Integrated System were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reporting the pregnancy rate of herbal medicine for infertility until July 2021. Following identifying the top three herbs used in treating female infertility, a network analysis was performed to reveal the TEAM pattern relationships between each herb. A meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the therapeutic effect of herbal medicine on pregnancy rate. Moreover, the methodological quality of RCTs was analyzed using Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) extension guidelines and the Risk of bias (RoB) tool. RESULTS Eighteen RCTs with 2,662 participants were included. Cuscuta chinensis Lam. (Tusizi) is the most commonly used herb for treating female infertility, followed by Angelica gigas Nakai (Danggui) and Cyperus rotundus L. (Xiangfuzi). These herbs were mainly used to treat patients with kidney deficiency or kidney deficiency combined with blood stasis or Phlegm-dampness on the TEAM pattern. The meta-analysis revealed that the effect of herbal medicine led to a significant increase in pregnancy rates compared to the placebo treatment. Adverse events in the included studies were generally mild and infrequent. The methodological quality of RCTs using CONSORT extension was poor, while the RoB of the included RCTs was generally low. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this review suggest that herbal medicine will be beneficial for treating female infertility by improving pregnancy rates. However, more carefully designed studies on herbal medicines are encouraged to improve the quality of herbal medicine research in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Yoon Hyun
- College of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon, 34520, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyeon-Suk Jung
- College of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon, 34520, Republic of Korea.
| | - Ji-Yeun Park
- College of Korean Medicine, Daejeon University, Daejeon, 34520, Republic of Korea.
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Observational studies of traditional Chinese medicine may provide evidence nearly consistent with the randomized controlled trials: A meta-epidemiological study. Integr Med Res 2022; 11:100889. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2022.100889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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Jiang X, Yuan Y, Shi M, Zhang S, Sui M, Zhou H. Bu-shen-zhu-yun decoction inhibits granulosa cell apoptosis in rat polycystic ovary syndrome through estrogen receptor α-mediated PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 288:114862. [PMID: 34861362 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Bu-shen-zhu-yun decoction (BSZYD) is a traditional chinese herbal prescription is widely used in the treatment of infertility. AIM OF THE STUDY We aimed to elucidate the impact of a traditional herbal prescription BSZYD on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). MATERIALS AND METHODS The candidate active compounds in BSZYD and their putative targets were investigated by bioinformatics analysis. A deydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)-induced PCOS rat model was then constructed using female Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Serum hormone levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Pathological changes in ovarian tissues were analyzed with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. The expressions of estrogen receptor α (ER α)-mediated PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway were measured by immunofluorescence and western blotting. RESULTS Bioinformatics analysis showed that the putative targets of active compound candidates in BSZYD were enriched in PI3K/AKT and estrogen signaling pathways related to regulating ovarian ovulation. Animal experiments showed that BSZYD significantly alleviated pathological changes in the ovary, altered hormone levels of serum and reduced apoptosis rate of granulosa cells. In addition, BSZYD treatment notably upregulated the expressions of proteins in ER α-mediated PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and downregulated apoptosis-related proteins in PCOS rats. CONCLUSION BSZYD can restore ovary lesions and ameliorate apoptosis through ER α-mediated PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, which might partly contribute to the treatment of PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofei Jiang
- Department of Gynecology, Xuzhou City Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine , Xuzhou 221003, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yizhen Yuan
- Department of Gynecology, Wuxi City Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuxi 214000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mingqing Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lishui Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lishui 323000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shuang Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Zhangjiagang TCM Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Suzhou 215600, Jiangsu, China
| | - Miao Sui
- Department of Endocrinology, Xuzhou City Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine , Xuzhou 221003, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huifang Zhou
- Department of Gynecology, Jiangsu Provincial Hospital, Nanjing 210029, Jiangsu, China.
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Effects of the Zishen Yutai Pill Compared With Placebo on Live Births Among Women in a Fresh Embryo Transfer Cycle. Obstet Gynecol 2022; 139:192-201. [PMID: 34991130 PMCID: PMC8759541 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000004658] [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: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The Zishen Yutai Pill increased the live birth rate after fresh embryo transfer when compared with placebo. OBJECTIVE: METHODS: RESULTS: CONCLUSION: CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION:
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Feng H, Zhou H, Lu J, Zhang Q, Tang X, Shang Y. Bu-Shen-Zhu-Yun decoction induces PRLR deubiquitination and JAK2/STAT5 activation via CSN5 in vitro. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:20418-20437. [PMID: 34424219 PMCID: PMC8436908 DOI: 10.18632/aging.203426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: To determine the effect of Bu-Shen-Zhu-Yun Decoction (BSZY-D) on the kisspeptin through JAK2/STAT5 signaling pathway in hyperprolactinemia (HPRL) infertility. Method: SD rats were treated with BSZY-D for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) extraction. GT1-7 cells were subjected to different treatments. The phosphorylation levels of JAK2 and STAT5, and the expressions of PRLR and kisspeptin of GT1-7 cells in different groups were detected by western blot, RT-qPCR and immunofluorescence. The expressions of CSN5 and GATA1 and other molecular features were checked by western blot, RT-PCR, co-immunoprecipitation and renilla luciferase activity. Results: The phosphorylation levels of JAK2 and STAT5, and the expressions of PRLR and kisspeptin in the HPRL group were significantly decreased, and these changes could be reversed after BSZY-D treatment. In addition, the presence of PRLR deubiquitination was detected in the HPRL group, which could be reversed by shRNA-CSN5, suggesting that BSZY-D played a role through targeting CSN5. The binding level of GATA1 and CSN5 promoter in the HPRL group was significantly decreased, but elevated in the HPRL (BSZY-D/CSF) group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: BSZY-D improved the transcription activity of GATA1 and increased the binding of GATA1 and CSN5. BSZY-D was involved in the deubiquitination of PRLR, which contributes to alleviating the symptoms of HPRL infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Feng
- Institute of Rehabilitation, Jiangsu Vocational College of Medicine, Yancheng 224008, Jiangsu Province, China.,Department of Gynecology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 224005, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Huifang Zhou
- Department of Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jianxia Lu
- Institute of Rehabilitation, Jiangsu Vocational College of Medicine, Yancheng 224008, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Qing Zhang
- School of Clinical Medicine Jiangsu Vocational College of Medicine, Yancheng 224008, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xingran Tang
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 224005, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yujie Shang
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 224005, Jiangsu Province, China
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Wu Y, Hu R, Zhong X, Zhang A, Pang B, Sun X, Zhu G. Electric Acupuncture Treatment Promotes Angiogenesis in Rats with Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion Through EphB4/EphrinB2 Mediated Src/PI3K Signal Pathway. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2021; 30:105165. [PMID: 33360522 DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2020.105165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cerebral infarction is one of the most common causes of disability and death worldwide. It is reported that electric acupuncture was able to improve the prognosis of cerebral infarction by promoting angiogenesis. However, the corresponding signal pathways of angiogenesis promotes by electric acupuncture treatment needs to be further explored. METHODS MCAO rat was employed as the animal model, and clopidogrel hydrogen sulfate treatment was set as the positive control. Behaviors of rats, H&E staining, and TTC-staining was used to evaluate the recovery of infarcted brain tissue and nervous function. After that, immunocytochemical and immunofluorescence staining was used to quantify the angiogenesis and compensatory circulation, which including the analysis of microvessel density, field/ microvessel area ratio, and microvessel diameter. Western blot and RT-PCR for the detection of the related signal molecule, PI3K, Src, and EphB4/ephrinB2. RESULTS The neurologic impairment scores were decreased, and the brain tissue damage that showed with H&E and TTC-staining was relieved by the treatment of electric acupuncture in MCAO rat. The quantification of microvessel density and field/ microvessel area ratio was improved obviously, and the microvessel diameter was decreased which represent the angiogenesis of capillary in day 3 and 7 by the electric acupuncture treatment. We also found that the level of Src and PI3K was increased markedly followed by the up-regulation of EphB4 and EphrinB2 mRNA during the electric acupuncture treatment, and the pre-treatment of Src and/or PI3K inhibitor was able to disturb the angiogenesis of capillary. CONCLUSIONS We proved that electric acupuncture was able to accelerate the recovery of infarcted brain tissue and nervous function in MCAO rat by the promotion of angiogenesis, which was regulated by EphB4/EphrinB2 mediated Src/PI3K signal pathway. Our study provides a potential therapy and theoretical basis for the clinical treatment of cerebral infarction by the use of electric acupuncture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanhua Wu
- Department of neurology, the first affiliated hospital of Guizhou university of traditional Chinese medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550002, P.R.China
| | - Rong Hu
- Department of neurology, the first affiliated hospital of Guizhou university of traditional Chinese medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550002, P.R.China
| | - Xiuyan Zhong
- Department of neurology, the first affiliated hospital of Guizhou university of traditional Chinese medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550002, P.R.China
| | - Anbang Zhang
- Department of neurology, the first affiliated hospital of Guizhou university of traditional Chinese medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550002, P.R.China
| | - Bo Pang
- Department of neurology, the first affiliated hospital of Guizhou university of traditional Chinese medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550002, P.R.China
| | - Xiuqi Sun
- Department of neurology, the first affiliated hospital of Guizhou university of traditional Chinese medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550002, P.R.China
| | - Guangqi Zhu
- Department of neurology, the first affiliated hospital of Guizhou university of traditional Chinese medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, 550002, P.R.China.
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Lee JW, Hyun MK, Kim HJ, Kim DI. Acupuncture and herbal medicine for female infertility: an overview of systematic reviews. Integr Med Res 2020; 10:100694. [PMID: 33665092 PMCID: PMC7903059 DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2020.100694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Acupuncture and herbal medicine have been used as additional treatments for infertility or as an adjuvant treatment of assisted reproductive technology (ART) in infertility. Many systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses (MA) have been published. This paper reviews the SRs and MA of acupuncture and herbal medicine on infertility to provide evidence for clinical decision making. Methods A comprehensive literature search of SRs and MA for the effects of acupuncture and herbal medicine on infertility was conducted using nine databases. Two independent reviewers extracted the data of the selected SR and MA and evaluated their methodological quality using the ‘Assessment of multiple systematic reviews 2 (AMSTAR2)’. Results Twenty-one studies were included in this analysis. Eight studies were published in China, and three studies each were published in the USA, UK, and Australia. Conflicting evidence on the efficacy of acupuncture for infertile women has been reported. Herbal medicine for infertile women undergoing ART, women with anovulation, and women with polycystic ovary syndrome helped improve the clinical pregnancy rate. The methodological quality of SRs and MAs evaluated by AMSTAR 2 was low or very low because the protocol or list of excluded studies were omitted. Conclusion Herbal medicine tended to be effective in infertility, but acupuncture had low evidence of an effect on infertility. The methodological quality of the published SRs and MAs was underestimated because AMSTAR2 is a more rigorous assessment tool than the previous version.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jang Won Lee
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Dongguk University Graduate School of Korean Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Gyeongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Kyung Hyun
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Gyeongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Jin Kim
- College of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Gyeongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Il Kim
- Department of Korean Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dongguk University Ilsan Oriental Hospital, Goyang, Republic of Korea
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Meresman GF, Götte M, Laschke MW. Plants as source of new therapies for endometriosis: a review of preclinical and clinical studies. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 27:367-392. [PMID: 33124671 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the disadvantages and limitations of current endometriosis therapy, there is a progressive increase in studies focusing on plant-derived agents as a natural treatment option with the intention of achieving high efficiency, avoiding adverse effects and preserving the chance for successful pregnancy. The heterogeneity of these studies in terms of evaluated agents, applied approaches and outcomes illustrates the need for an up-to-date summary and critical view on this rapidly growing field in endometriosis research. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review provides a comprehensive overview of plant-derived agents and natural treatment strategies that are under preclinical or clinical investigation and critically evaluates their potential for future endometriosis therapy. SEARCH METHODS An English language PubMed literature search was performed using variations of the terms 'endometriosis', 'natural therapy', 'herb/herbal', 'plant', 'flavonoid', 'polyphenol', 'phytochemical', 'bioactive', 'Kampo' and 'Chinese medicine'. It included both animal and human studies. Moreover, the Clinicaltrials.gov database was searched with the term 'endometriosis' for clinical trials on plant-derived agents. No restriction was set for the publication date. OUTCOMES Natural therapies can be assigned to three categories: (i) herbal extracts, (ii) specific plant-derived bioactive compounds and (iii) Chinese herbal medicine (CHM). Agents of the first category have been shown to exert anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic and anti-oxidant effects on endometrial cells and endometriotic lesions. However, the existing evidence supporting their use in endometriosis therapy is quite limited. The most studied specific plant-derived bioactive compounds are resveratrol, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, curcumin, puerarin, ginsenosides, xanthohumol, 4-hydroxybenzyl alcohol, quercetin, apigenin, carnosic acid, rosmarinic acid, wogonin, baicalein, parthenolide, andrographolide and cannabinoids, with solid evidence about their inhibitory activity in experimental endometriosis models. Their mechanisms of action include pleiotropic effects on known signalling effectors: oestrogen receptor-α, cyclooxygenase-2, interleukin-1 and -6, tumour necrosis factor-α, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, vascular endothelial growth factor, nuclear factor-kappa B, matrix metalloproteinases as well as reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis-related proteins. Numerous studies suggest that treatment with CHM is a good choice for endometriosis management. Even under clinical conditions, this approach has already been shown to decrease the size of endometriotic lesions, alleviate chronic pelvic pain and reduce postoperative recurrence rates. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The necessity to manage endometriosis as a chronic disease highlights the importance of identifying novel and affordable long-term safety therapeutics. For this purpose, natural plant-derived agents represent promising candidates. Many of these agents exhibit a pleiotropic action profile, which simultaneously inhibits fundamental processes in the pathogenesis of endometriosis, such as proliferation, inflammation, ROS formation and angiogenesis. Hence, their inclusion into multimodal treatment concepts may essentially contribute to increase the therapeutic efficiency and reduce the side effects of future endometriosis therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela F Meresman
- Institute of Biology and Experimental Medicine (IBYME-CONICET), C1428ADN Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Martin Götte
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Münster University Hospital, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Matthias W Laschke
- Institute for Clinical & Experimental Surgery, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
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Ren ZQ, Wang YF, Ao GF, Chen HX, Huang M, Lai MX, Zhao HD, Zhao R. Overall adjustment acupuncture for postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP): a study protocol for a randomized sham-controlled trial. Trials 2020; 21:465. [PMID: 32493411 PMCID: PMC7268299 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-020-04435-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Osteoporosis is becoming more prevalent in aging societies worldwide, and the economic burden attributable to osteoporotic fractures is substantial. The medications presently available to treat osteoporosis have side effects. Acupuncture is widely used for treating osteoporotic postmenopausal women because it is non-invasive and has fewer side effects, but the powerful clinical evidence for its efficacy remains insufficient. Our study intends to explore the effect of overall adjustment acupuncture (OA) in the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP). METHODS/DESIGN This study is a randomized, sham-controlled, patient- and assessor-blinded trial and aims to evaluate the effect of OA in women with PMOP. We will recruit 104 women aged 45-70 years with a diagnosis of PMOP. Participants will be randomly allocated in a 1:1 ratio to the OA group and the sham acupuncture (SA) group. Both groups will receive real herbal medicine treatment as a basic treatment twice a day for 3 months, the OA group receives real acupuncture treatment and the SA group receives placebo acupuncture treatment (non-penetrating, sham skin-needle therapy, sham cupping). All patients will receive acupuncture treatment twice per week for 3 months. The primary outcome is bone mineral density (BMD) and the secondary outcomes include estradiol (E2), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), bone gla protein (BGP), bone alkaline phosphatase (BALP), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), PPARγ, β-catenin, FoxO3a levels, visual analog pain scale score (VAS), Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndrome scores and quality of daily life score (QOL). Outcome measures will be collected at baseline, middle of the treatment (1.5 months), the end of treatment (3 months). The present protocol followed the SPIRIT guidelines and fulfills the SPIRIT Checklist. CONCLUSION This study will be conducted to compare the efficacy of OA versus SA. This trial should help to evaluate whether OA can effectively prevent and treat PMOP by improving the estrogen levels of postmenopausal women. The mechanism is to improve the imbalance of osteogenic differentiation and lipogenesis of bone-marrow cells under oxidative stress. TRIAL REGISTRATION Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ID: ChiCTR1800017581. Registered on 5 August 2018. URL: http://www.chictr.org.cn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Q Ren
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, No.138 Xianlin Road, Nanjing, 210046, China.,The First Affiliated Hospital of Dali University, No. 32 Jiashibo Road, Dali, 671000, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Y F Wang
- School of Acupuncture-Tuina and Rehabilitation, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, No.1076 Yuhua Road, Chenggong District, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan Province, China
| | - G F Ao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Dali University, No. 32 Jiashibo Road, Dali, 671000, Yunnan Province, China
| | - H X Chen
- School of Acupuncture-Tuina and Rehabilitation, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, No.1076 Yuhua Road, Chenggong District, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan Province, China
| | - M Huang
- Department of Acupuncture, Kunming Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 25 Dongfeng Road, Panlong District, Kunming, 650011, Yunnan Province, China
| | - M X Lai
- School of Acupuncture-Tuina and Rehabilitation, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, No.1076 Yuhua Road, Chenggong District, Kunming, 650500, Yunnan Province, China
| | - H D Zhao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Dali University, No. 32 Jiashibo Road, Dali, 671000, Yunnan Province, China
| | - R Zhao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, No.120 Guanghua Road, Wuhua District, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan Province, China.
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Choi TY, Jun JH, Lee HW, Ang L, Kim ES, Go HY, You S, Lee MS. Korean medicines for poor ovarian reserve in infertility: A protocol for a multicenter observational study. Medicine (Baltimore) 2019; 98:e17731. [PMID: 31689817 PMCID: PMC6946327 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000017731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Many infertile patients have used Korean medicines (KMs) as a primary or adjuvant therapeutic method to improve in vitro fertilization success rates. The aim of this multicenter observational study is to investigate the effects of KMs on poor ovarian reserve (POR) in infertile patients. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will perform a prospective multicenter observational study. This study will recruit 50 women between 25 and 44 years of age with infertility caused by POR from among patients who visit the KM clinic. All participants will visit the KM clinic on the 2nd or 3rd day of menstruation to receive the KMs. KM treatment will be delivered for 3 menstrual cycles (3 months) and will include herbal decoction, acupuncture, or moxibustion on demand. Every participant will be assessed based on KM clinical symptoms, a quality of life questionnaire, and ovarian reserve test results. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study was approved by Institutional Review Board of Semyung University (SMU-IM-190501). The results will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and will be disseminated electronically and in print. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Clinical Research Information Service: KCT0004209.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hye Won Lee
- Herbal Medicine Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine
| | | | | | - Ho Yeon Go
- Internal Medicine, College of Korean Medicine, Semyung University, Chungju, South Korea
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12
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Wang Q, Deng H, Cheng K, Huang Z, Yin X, Zhou Y, Yang Y, Shen W, Zhao L, Shen X. Manual acupuncture for the infertile female with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): study protocol for a randomized sham-controlled trial. Trials 2019; 20:564. [PMID: 31511054 PMCID: PMC6739979 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-019-3667-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine diseases for women. Acupuncture is widely used for the infertile female because of it is non-invasive and has fewer side effects, but the powerful evidence for the clinic is still insufficient. Our study intends to explore the effect of manual acupuncture (MA) in the infertile female with PCOS. METHODS This study is a randomized, sham-controlled, patient-and assessor-blinded trial and aims to evaluate the effect of MA in women with PCOS and infertility. We will recruit 86 women aged 20-40 years with a diagnosis of infertility with PCOS. Participants will be randomly allocated in a 1:1 ratio to the MA group and the sham acupuncture (SA) group. Both groups will receive real herbal medicine treatment as a basic treatment twice a day for three menstrual cycles, the MA group receive real acupuncture treatment and the SA group received placebo acupuncture treatment (non-penetrating). All patients will receive acupuncture treatment twice per week for three menstrual cycles. The primary outcome is pregnancy rate and secondary outcomes include ovulation rate, sex hormones, insulin resistance index (IRI), PCOS symptoms, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) syndrome scores. Outcome measures will be collected at baseline, each menstrual cycle, the end of treatments, and six months after the last acupuncture treatment. The present protocol followed the SPIRIT guidelines and fulfilled the SPIRIT checklist. DISCUSSION This study will be conducted to compare the efficacy of MA versus SA. This trial will help to evaluate whether MA is effective in increasing pregnancy and ovulation rates of the infertile female with polycystic ovary syndrome. TRIAL REGISTRATION Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR1800014997 . Registered on 27 February 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao Wang
- Acupuncture & Tuina School, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Haiping Deng
- Acupuncture & Tuina School, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Ke Cheng
- Acupuncture & Tuina School, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Zouqin Huang
- Shanghai Pudong New District Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201200, China
| | - Xiuqi Yin
- Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yichen Zhou
- Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yiqin Yang
- Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Weidong Shen
- Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Ling Zhao
- Acupuncture & Tuina School, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Xueyong Shen
- Acupuncture & Tuina School, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
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13
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Reliability and validity of a pattern identification questionnaire for liver-qi stagnation infertility. Eur J Integr Med 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2019.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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14
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Tiu MMH, Hong JYF, Cheng VS, Kam CYC, Ng BTY. Lived experience of infertility among Hong Kong Chinese women. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2018; 13:1554023. [PMID: 30704372 PMCID: PMC6319451 DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2018.1554023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to explore and describe the phenomenon of women with infertility and to enhance understanding on how infertility affects their lives and the specific social consequence they encountered. METHOD A qualitative phenomenological design was adopted in this study. A total of 13 women who are infertile participated in the study. A snowball sampling method was adopted. Data were analysed through thematic analysis. RESULTS Four themes emerged in the study, including (i) non-escapable cultural burden in Chinese family; (ii) psychological distress: isolation caused by envy; (iii) disappointment towards reproductive health services; and (iv) self-compassion and religion as coping strategies. CONCLUSIONS The causes of infertility are highly complex. Apart from medical conditions, many social conditions would also probably trigger the difficulty of conceiving. Health care professional should also focus on the social and psychological aspects of women of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mimi MH Tiu
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Open University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Juliana YF Hong
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Open University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Vincent S Cheng
- School of Arts and Social Sciences, Open University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Connie YC Kam
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Open University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Bernadette TY Ng
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Open University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
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15
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Effects of Acupuncture on the Outcomes of Assisted Reproductive Technology: An Overview of Systematic Reviews. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2018; 2018:7352735. [PMID: 30327681 PMCID: PMC6171206 DOI: 10.1155/2018/7352735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Objectives To conclude the evidence from systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses assessing the effectiveness of acupuncture to treat couples with subfertility undergoing ART. Methods We searched the major databases from their inception to March 2018: PubMed, Embase, The Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Database, Chongqing VIP, and Sino-Med (the Chinese database). The primary outcomes of the overview were live birth and clinical pregnancy, and secondary outcomes were ongoing pregnancy, miscarriage, and adverse events. Study selection, quality assessment, and data extraction were performed independently by two review authors. Review methodological quality was assessed by using the AMSTAR tool, and the quality of the evidence was rated by GRADE methods. Results Eleven systematic reviews were included and published between 2009 and 2017. Our study showed that the acupuncture treatment seems to be a useful tool to improve the clinical pregnancy rate in patients who undergo assisted reproduction therapy. However, there was no evidence that acupuncture had any effect on live birth rate, ongoing pregnancy rates, or miscarriage regardless of whether acupuncture was performed around the time of oocyte retrieval or around the day of embryo transfer; this evidence is inconclusive because of the low quality of the included studies. Conclusions The evidence for acupuncture to treat couples with subfertility undergoing ART remains unclear. Further research is needed, with high-quality trials undertaken and reported.
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16
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Shan J, Xie T, Xu J, Zhou H, Zhao X. Metabolomics of the amniotic fluid: Is it a feasible approach to evaluate the safety of Chinese medicine during pregnancy? J Appl Toxicol 2018; 39:163-171. [PMID: 29931825 DOI: 10.1002/jat.3653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Revised: 04/08/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The use of Chinese medicines (CMs) during pregnancy has long been a major public health concern. Although CMs have been shown to be effective in treating infertility and preventing miscarriage, their use has been restricted, mainly because of limited knowledge of their potential toxicity. Accurate toxicology data are urgently required to assess whether these CMs are safe for maternal health and fetal development. Amniotic fluid (AF) contains carbohydrates, lipids and phospholipids, urea and proteins, all of which aid in the growth of the fetus and reflect the mother's health status as well. The changes in metabolomic patterns of AF are related to pathophysiological occurrences during the course of pregnancy. In this review, we provide a summary of the research performed in recent years on metabolomic AF samples, and use our previous study as an example to explore the feasibility of metabolomics of AF to evaluate the safety of CMs during pregnancy. We believe that metabolomics of AF play a far more important role than traditional morphology methods in the safety evaluation of CMs for pregnancy, with a higher sensitivity and correlation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinjun Shan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Institute of Pediatrics, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.,Medical Metabolomics Center, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Tong Xie
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Institute of Pediatrics, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China.,Medical Metabolomics Center, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Jianya Xu
- Medical Metabolomics Center, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Huifang Zhou
- Department of Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Xia Zhao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Institute of Pediatrics, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
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17
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Kooti W, Moradi M, Peyro K, Sharghi M, Alamiri F, Azami M, Firoozbakht M, Ghafourian M. The effect of celery (Apium graveolens L.) on fertility: A systematic review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 15:/j/jcim.ahead-of-print/jcim-2016-0141/jcim-2016-0141.xml. [DOI: 10.1515/jcim-2016-0141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Fertility and infertility problems are among the complex issues in medicine. The use of herbal products in the treatment of fertility has been considered as an alternative to synthetic drugs. Celery containing known compounds can have an impact on the fertility rate. The aim of this study was to do a systematic review on conducted studies in conjunction with the celery and reproduction.
Methods
Required papers were searched from databases like Science direct, PubMed, Scopus, and Springer. Keywords used in this study were “Apium graveolens L.”, “fertility”, “reproductive system”, “sperm”, “testis”, “delivery”, “sexual hormone”, “LH”, “FSH”, “testosterone”, “semen”, “male”, and “female”. Out of 238 collected articles (published in the period 1995 to 2015), 222 were excluded due to non-relevance and lack of access to the original article.
Results
The notable points were the different results seen by different researchers during different treatment periods or at different doses. Of the 16 studies reviewed in this study, 13 studies have mentioned the positive effect of celery on fertility, while three studies reported the inhibitory effects of this plant.
Conclusions
Celery can have protective effects against substances such as sodium valproate, propylene glycol, and diethyl phthalate causing damages to the testicular structure and spermatogenesis. In this regard, the doses used and the treatment time while using the plant must be accurately investigated. Since there are compounds such as apigenin, the celery can induce inhibitory effects on fertility in case of chronic use or high concentration.
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18
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Ding J, Tan X, Song K, Ma W, Xiao J, Song Y, Zhang M. Bushen Huoxue Recipe Alleviates Implantation Loss in Mice by Enhancing Estrogen-Progesterone Signals and Promoting Decidual Angiogenesis Through FGF2 During Early Pregnancy. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:437. [PMID: 29867455 PMCID: PMC5962815 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Bushen Huoxue recipe (BSHXR) is a classic Chinese herbal prescription for nourishing the kidney and activating blood circulation. It consists of six herbs: Astragali radix, Angelicae sinensis radix, Ligustici Chuanxiong Rhizoma, Cuscutae semen, Taxilli Herba, and Dipsaci Radix, and the main active constituents of BSHXR are ferulic acid, calycosin-7-glucopyranoside, hyperoside, quercitrin, and asperosaponin VI. In clinical practice, BSHXR is traditionally used to treat failed pregnancy and its complications. However, little is known about the underlying mechanism of BSHXR for the treatment of implantation loss during early pregnancy. In the current study, controlled ovarian hyperstimulation was induced in mice as our implantation loss model, and we evaluated the effects of BSHXR on implantation, decidualization, decidual angiogenesis, and reproductive outcome. We showed that BSHXR could regulate the supraphysiological levels of serum estrogen and progesterone observed in these mice, and also act on estrogen and progesterone receptors in the stroma and epithelium. BSHXR also enhanced FGF2 expression in the vascular sinus folding area of the decidua, thus potentially reducing implantation loss during early pregnancy and contributing to placentation and survival of the fetuses. Taken together, our findings provide scientific evidence for the application of BSHXR in the clinic as a treatment for implantation loss during early pregnancy, and warrant further investigation of BSHXR as an effective treatment for failed pregnancy and its complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahui Ding
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiujuan Tan
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kunkun Song
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenwen Ma
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Xiao
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yufan Song
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Mingmin Zhang
- Institute of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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19
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Bu-shen-zhu-yun decoction promotes synthesis and secretion of FSHβ and LHβ in anterior pituitary cells in vitro. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 102:494-501. [PMID: 29579710 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Luteal phase defects (LPD) are an important etiology of infertility which has increased in recent years. Studies have shown that bu-shen-zhu-yun decoction (BSZY-D) can lower the expression of estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor, in rats endometrium of embryonic implantation period, which upregulated by mifepristone, and improve uterine receptivity. The aim of present study was to determine the effect of BSZY-D on the synthesis and secretion of gonadotropic hormones in the anterior pituitary cells of rats. Rats were treated with saline (control) or BSZY-D two times/day for three estrous cycles by gavage. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were collected for further cell treatment. The components in BSZY-D, serum and CSF were analysed by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Cells were either pretreated with normal CSF or BSZY-D/CSF before being stimulated with or without cetrorelix. The mRNA and proteins levels of receptors, hormones, and transcription factors were detected by RT-PCR, western blot analysis and immunostaining. We show that non-toxic concentrations of cetrorelix, a GnRH antagonist, can reduce the mRNA and protein levels of GnRHR, LH, and FSH. This effect could be reversed by the addition of BSZY-D/CSF. We also show decreased mRNA and protein expression of transcription factors, such as CREB, and Egr-1 and secretory vescicles, including SNAP-25 and Munc-18 upon treatment with cetrorelix could be reversed post co-treatment with BSZY-D/CSF. These results indicate that BSZY-D/CSF treatment led to increased levels of GnRHR, transcription factors, and secretory vesicles leading to increased secretion of FSH and LH. Thus, BSZY-D presents a promising candidate to treat luteal phase defects and infertility.
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20
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Kim KH, Jang S, Lee JA, Go HY, Jung J, Park S, Lee MS, Ko SG. Characteristics and Outcomes of Female Infertility Treatment Programs Using Traditional Medicine in Korea: A Multisite Analysis. J Altern Complement Med 2018; 24:570-577. [PMID: 29565635 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2016.0384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Infertility has long been recognized as a treatable disease, and complementary and alternative medicine treatments, such as acupuncture and moxibustion, have been used in Korea and China. This study describes female infertility treatment programs that used traditional Korean medicine (TKM) and were conducted by local governments in Korea and evaluates its effectiveness and safety. METHODS The authors officially requested related information from the report of the infertility treatment programs and related sources from 2006 to 2016 from the Health & Welfare Ministry of Korea and the Association of Korean Medicine (AKOM). Additional information was obtained from six Korean databases. Data including basic information about the programs, participant information, interventions, and outcomes were abstracted. RESULTS A total of 9 reports, including multiple years of data from 6 programs (total 13 programs), were identified. In these 13 programs, a total of 1023 female subjects participated, and 205 of the 887 subjects who completed the program reported a successful pregnancy, indicating a 23.1% pregnancy rate. The programs lasted 3-9 months, and interventional elements, such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, fumigation, and massage, were identified. Significant adverse effects were not reported. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that infertility treatment programs with TKM interventions exhibited a positive effect on pregnancy in females with infertility. Thus, the infertility treatment programs with TKM interventions are expected to be useful and might serve as the primary treatment before assisted reproduction techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyeong Han Kim
- 1 Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine , Woosuk University, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Soobin Jang
- 2 Clinical Medicine Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju Ah Lee
- 3 Department of Korean Internal Medicine, College of Korean Medicine , Gachon University, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho-Yeon Go
- 4 Internal Medicine College of Korean Medicine , Semyung University, Chungju, Chungcheongbuk-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeeyoun Jung
- 2 Clinical Medicine Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunju Park
- 5 Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine , Daejeon University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Myeong Soo Lee
- 2 Clinical Medicine Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Gyu Ko
- 6 Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Korean Medicine , Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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21
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Kim SH, Jo J, Kim DI. The effectiveness, safety, and economic evaluation of Korean medicine for unexplained infertile women: A multi-center, prospective, observational study protocol. Medicine (Baltimore) 2017; 96:e9360. [PMID: 29390524 PMCID: PMC5758226 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000009360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Infertility is a condition in which a woman has not been pregnant despite having had normal intercourse for 1 year. The number of unexplained infertile females is increasing because of late marriage customs, as well as environmental and lifestyle habits. In Korea, infertile females have been treated with Korean medicine (KM). However, these effects have not been objectively confirmed through clinical trials. Therefore, this study was conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of herbal medicine treatment in infertile patients and to demonstrate the economic feasibility through economical evaluation with assisted reproductive technology.This study is designed as a multicenter, single-arm clinical trial. All participants included will be from 3 Korean Medicine hospitals in Korea and will voluntarily sign an informed consent agreement. All recruited patients will conduct related surveys and tests, and be provided with treatment according to their menstrual cycle. Patients will take herbal medicines for 4 menstruation cycles and receive acupuncture and moxibustion treatment at 3 times (menstrual cycle day 3, 8, 14) during 4 menstruation cycles. They will also undergo an approximately 4 menstrual cycle treatment period, and 3 menstrual cycle observation period. If pregnant during the study, participants will take the herbal medicine for implantation for about 15 days. In this study, the primary outcome will be the clinical pregnancy rate, whereas the secondary outcome will include the implantation rate, ongoing pregnancy rate, and live birth rate.Ultimately, this study will provide clinical data regarding the effectiveness and safety of KM treatment for females with unexplained infertility and important evidence for establishing standard KM treatments for unexplained infertility. Moreover, we will identify the most cost-effective way to treat unexplained infertility. TRIAL REGISTRATION IDENTIFIER Korean Clinical Trial Registry (CRIS), Republic of Korea: KCT0002235. Date: February 21, 2017 (retrospectively registered).
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-Hyun Kim
- Graduate School of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Gyeongju
| | | | - Dong-Il Kim
- Department of Korean Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dongguk University Ilsan Hospital of Korean Medicine, Goyang, Republic of Korea
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22
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Development of an Automatic Dispensing System for Traditional Chinese Herbs. JOURNAL OF HEALTHCARE ENGINEERING 2017; 2017:9013508. [PMID: 29081939 PMCID: PMC5610888 DOI: 10.1155/2017/9013508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Revised: 06/21/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The gathering of ingredients for decoctions of traditional Chinese herbs still relies on manual dispensation, due to the irregular shape of many items and inconsistencies in weights. In this study, we developed an automatic dispensing system for Chinese herbal decoctions with the aim of reducing manpower costs and the risk of mistakes. We employed machine vision in conjunction with a robot manipulator to facilitate the grasping of ingredients. The name and formulation of the decoction are input via a human-computer interface, and the dispensing of multiple medicine packets is performed automatically. An off-line least-squared curve fitting method was used to calculate the amount of material grasped by the claws and thereby improve system efficiency as well as the accuracy of individual dosages. Experiments on the dispensing of actual ingredients demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed system.
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Choi HJ, Chung TW, Park MJ, Jung YS, Lee SO, Kim KJ, Ha KT. Water-extracted tubers of Cyperus rotundus L. enhance endometrial receptivity through leukemia inhibitory factor-mediated expression of integrin αVβ3 and αVβ5. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2017; 208:16-23. [PMID: 28676452 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2017.06.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2016] [Revised: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Cyperus rotundus L. (CR) has been traditionally used as an herbal medicine in Asian countries to treat diverse gynecological disorders. However, the potential therapeutic effect of CR on endometrial receptivity for successful embryo implantation to treat female infertility has not been fully studied. AIM OF STUDY The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of water-extracted CR on endometrial receptivity by investigating the expression of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and integrins, cell adhesion, and embryo implantation using mifepristone (RU486; RU)-induced implantation failure model. MATERIALS AND METHODS The water extract of CR was prepared and fingerprinted using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). For the expression and regulation of LIF, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and western blotting were performed in CR-stimulated Ishikawa cells. To evaluate LIF-mediated integrin expression, knockdown of LIF by shRNA was performed in Ishikawa cells. The effect of CR on endometrial receptivity was determined by an in vitro adhesion assay between JAr cells and CR-induced Ishikawa cells. In vivo, C57BL/6 female mice (n = 7 per group) orally received CR (31.68mg/kg/day), a similar dose as used clinically. Seven days after CR treatment, all female mice were caged with male mice until pregnancy was verified. On day 4 of pregnancy, RU (4mg/kg) was injected subcutaneously to induce embryo implantation failure. RESULT CR increased the expression of LIF through the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/ protein kinase B (PI-3K/AKT) signaling pathway in Ishikawa cells. In addition, CR enhanced adhesion of JAr cells onto Ishikawa cells by inducing the expression of LIF-dependent integrins αVβ3 and αVβ5. Furthermore, CR improved the number of implantation sites in pregnant mice despite RU injection. CONCLUSION CR increased the expression of LIF-mediated integrins αVβ3 and αVβ5 on the surface of endometrial cells, which is associated with adhesion of trophoblastic cells to endometrial cells for blastocyst implantation. Our findings provide evidence that CR has therapeutic potential against poor endometrial receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee-Jung Choi
- Healthy Aging Korean Medical Research Center, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Wook Chung
- Healthy Aging Korean Medical Research Center, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-Ju Park
- Healthy Aging Korean Medical Research Center, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeon-Seop Jung
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Keimyung University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Syng-Ook Lee
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Keimyung University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Keuk-Jun Kim
- Department of Clinical Pathology, DaeKyeung University, Gyeongsan, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Tae Ha
- Healthy Aging Korean Medical Research Center, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, Republic of Korea.
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Porat-Katz A, Eldar-Geva T, Kahane A, Paltiel O. Using propensity score matching to evaluate the effect of complementary medicine on clinical and embryologic outcomes of in vitro fertilization. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2017; 138:212-218. [DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.12212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Revised: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 05/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anat Porat-Katz
- Hebrew University-Hadassah-Braun School of Public Health; Jerusalem Israel
- IVF Unit; Assuta Medical Center; Rishon LeZion Israel
| | - Talia Eldar-Geva
- IVF Unit; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Shaare Zedek Medical Center; Hebrew University Faculty of Medicine; Jerusalem Israel
| | - Arik Kahane
- IVF Unit; Assuta Medical Center; Rishon LeZion Israel
| | - Ora Paltiel
- Hebrew University-Hadassah-Braun School of Public Health; Jerusalem Israel
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25
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Lin J, Li XL, Song H, Li Q, Wang MY, Qiu XM, Li DJ, Wang L. A general description for Chinese medicine in treating premature ovarian failure. Chin J Integr Med 2017; 23:91-97. [PMID: 28265850 DOI: 10.1007/s11655-016-2642-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Premature ovarian failure (POF) is a kind of gynecological disease that causes amenorrhea, infertility, menopause and urogenital symptoms. Currently hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the most popular choice for women with POF to get rid of menopausal syndrome. However, as the popularization of Chinese herbs made Chinese medicine (CM) shine new lights, physicians are able to treat POF with both meno-herbs and integrated therapy. HRT has its own indications and contraindications. For example, unexplained vaginal bleeding, acute liver damage, liver dysfunction, vascular embolization, and breast cancer are all contraindications of HRT, and CM is taken by more physicians as an adjuvant therapy. This review, including a range of common Chinese herbs and formulations according to the existing literature, provides a general description of CM treating POF from the aspects of mechanisms and clinical application. It also highlights acupuncture as a unique physiotherapy for POF. Although the validity of CM has been supported by the evidence of many preclinical trials, clinical trials and meta-analysis, the adverse events with CM therapy still exist and no guarantee has been made for its safety. This review concludes the updated information for CM treating POF contributing to further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Lin
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital and Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences (IBS), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xue-Lian Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital and Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences (IBS), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Hui Song
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital and Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences (IBS), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Qian Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital and Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences (IBS), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ming-Yan Wang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital and Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences (IBS), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xue-Min Qiu
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital and Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences (IBS), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, 200011, China
- The Academy of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Da-Jin Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital and Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences (IBS), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, 200011, China
- The Academy of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ling Wang
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital and Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences (IBS), Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, 200011, China.
- The Academy of Integrative Medicine of Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Jiang D, Li L, Zeng BY. Treatment of Chinese Herbal Medicine for Female Infertility. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2017; 135:233-247. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2017.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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Steel A, Adams J, Sibbritt D. The Characteristics of Women Who Use Complementary Medicine While Attempting to Conceive: Results from a Nationally Representative Sample of 13,224 Australian Women. Womens Health Issues 2016; 27:67-74. [PMID: 27810165 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2016.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Revised: 08/20/2016] [Accepted: 09/19/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preconception is acknowledged globally as an important part of ensuring health for the next generation and is underpinned by principles of health promotion and preventive medicine. There is a demand for more holistic, preventive health care within preconception health services. Many women are also using complementary medicine during their reproductive years. MATERIALS AND METHODS This paper presents a longitudinal analysis of women's consultations with a complementary medicine practitioner while attempting to become pregnant, and the characteristics of women who choose to consult a complementary medicine practitioner during the preconception period. The cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses conducted in this study utilise data from the 1973 through 1978 cohort of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (n = 13,224). Multivariate logistic regression models and generalized estimating equation models, with and without time lag, were used. RESULTS Women who identified as attempting to conceive were more likely to consult with an acupuncturist (adjusted odds ratio, 1.46) or a naturopath/herbalist (adjusted odds ratio, 1.30). Women who consulted with an acupuncturist were likely to be consulting with a specialist doctor (odds ratio, 3.73) and/or have previous fertility issues (odds ratio, 2.30). Women who consulted with a naturopath were more likely to report experiencing premenstrual tension (odds ratio, 2.30) but less likely to have had a previous miscarriage (odds ratio, 0.18). CONCLUSIONS Policymakers and other health professionals need to be aware that health professionals who are largely unregulated and structurally isolated from conventional health care may be actively contributing to women's reproductive and physical health during the preconception period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amie Steel
- Endeavour College of Natural Health, Queensland, Australia; Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Jon Adams
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David Sibbritt
- Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, New South Wales, Australia
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Heo S, Kim KI, Lee J, Jeong E, Lee J. Effects of Korean herbal medicine on pregnancy outcomes of infertile women aged over 35: A retrospective study. Eur J Integr Med 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eujim.2016.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Kim EY, Choi HJ, Chung TW, Choi JY, Kim HS, Jung YS, Lee SO, Ha KT. Water-extracted Perilla frutescens increases endometrial receptivity though leukemia inhibitory factor-dependent expression of integrins. J Pharmacol Sci 2016; 131:259-66. [PMID: 27562703 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphs.2016.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Revised: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The leaves and stems of Perilla frutescens var. acuta Kudo (PF) have been used to prevent threatened abortion in traditional medicine in the East Asian countries. Because reduced receptivity of endometrium is a cause of abortion, we analyzed the action of PF on the endometrial receptivity. PF increased the level of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), a major cytokine regulating endometrial receptivity, and LIF receptor in human endometrial Ishikawa cells. The PF-induced LIF expression was mediated by c-jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 pathways. Adhesion between Ishikawa cells and trophoblastic JAr cells stimulated by PF treatment was abolished by knock down of LIF expression or antagonism of LIFR. In addition, the expressions of integrin β3 and β5 were increased by PF treatment in Ishikawa cells. The PF-induced expression of integrin β3 and β5 was reduced with an LIFR antagonist. Neutralization of both integrins successfully blocked PF-stimulated adhesion of JAr cells and Ishikawa cells. These results suggest that PF enhanced the adhesion between Ishikawa cells and JAr cells by increasing the expression of integrin β3 and β5 via an LIF-dependent pathway. Given the importance of endometrial receptivity in successful pregnancy, PF can be a novel and effective candidate for improving pregnancy rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun-Yeong Kim
- School of Korean Medicine and Healthy Aging Korean Medical Research Center, Pusan National University, Busandaehak-ro 49, Mulgeum-eup, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Jung Choi
- School of Korean Medicine and Healthy Aging Korean Medical Research Center, Pusan National University, Busandaehak-ro 49, Mulgeum-eup, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Wook Chung
- School of Korean Medicine and Healthy Aging Korean Medical Research Center, Pusan National University, Busandaehak-ro 49, Mulgeum-eup, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun-Yong Choi
- School of Korean Medicine and Healthy Aging Korean Medical Research Center, Pusan National University, Busandaehak-ro 49, Mulgeum-eup, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do 50612, Republic of Korea; National Clinical Research Center for Korean Medicine, Korean Medicine Hospital of Pusan National University, Geumo-ro 20, Mulgeum-eup, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do 50612, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Sik Kim
- Laboratory of Molecular Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, SungKyunKwan University, Seobu-ro 2066, Jangan-gu, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeon-Seop Jung
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Keimyung University, Dalgubeoldae-ro 1095, Dalseo-gu, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea
| | - Syng-Ook Lee
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Keimyung University, Dalgubeoldae-ro 1095, Dalseo-gu, Daegu 42601, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Tae Ha
- School of Korean Medicine and Healthy Aging Korean Medical Research Center, Pusan National University, Busandaehak-ro 49, Mulgeum-eup, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do 50612, Republic of Korea; National Clinical Research Center for Korean Medicine, Korean Medicine Hospital of Pusan National University, Geumo-ro 20, Mulgeum-eup, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do 50612, Republic of Korea.
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Aziato L, Antwi HO. Facilitators and barriers of herbal medicine use in Accra, Ghana: an inductive exploratory study. Altern Ther Health Med 2016; 16:142. [PMID: 27229306 PMCID: PMC4880958 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-016-1124-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 05/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Background The use of complementary and alternative medicine including herbal medicine is increasing in many countries including Ghana. However, there is paucity of research on the perspectives of patrons of herbal medicine regarding the facilitators and barriers of herbal medicine use. This study sought to investigate the facilitators and barriers of herbal medicine among Ghanaian adults who use one form of herbal medicine or the other. Methods The study employed an inductive exploratory qualitative approach. It was conducted at a private herbal clinic in Accra. Purposive sampling was employed to recruit 16 participants. Data collection was through individual face-to-face interviews and these were transcribed and analysed using content analysis procedures. Results It was realized that the factors that enhanced the use of herbal medicine included use of convincing information to enhance the initiation of herbal medicine use, effectiveness of herbal medicine, personal preference for herbal medicine, perceived ineffectiveness of western medicine and integration of spirituality in herbal medicine. The factors that hindered herbal medicine use included negative perceptions and attitudes about herbal medicine, poor vending environment, poor knowledge of vendors, high cost of herbal products at credible herbal clinics and inconsistent effectiveness of some herbal products. Participants desired that the national health insurance scheme will cover the cost of herbal medicine to alleviate the financial burden associated with herbal medicine use. Conclusion Although some Ghanaians patronize herbal medicine, the negative perceptions about herbal medicine resulting from deceitful producers and vendors call for enhanced education and monitoring to ensure that effective herbal products are used.
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Namvar Vansofla F, Roshangar L, Montaseri A, Soleimani Rad J. Impact of Prunus Cerasus on PGR and HAS2 in Cumulus Cells and Fertility Outcome. Adv Pharm Bull 2016; 6:65-9. [PMID: 27123419 PMCID: PMC4845541 DOI: 10.15171/apb.2016.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Revised: 01/06/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Cumulus cells have a critical role in normal oocyte development and fertilization. Prunus cerasus is an anthocyanin rich berry and performs strong antioxidant activity. The present study set to determine if Prunus cerasus can affect expression of HAS2 (hyaluronan synthase 2) and progesterone receptor in Cumulus cells and its consequences outcome of the in vitro fertilization. METHODS 60 female and 15 male adult mice were used for mating and IVF (in vitro fertilization). Prunus cerasus extraction was added to the diet of female mice for 30 days. Ovulation induction and oocytes collection were done as routine. The cumulus cells were dissected apart, and the expression of progesterone receptor and HAS2 was detected using RT-PCR (real-time polymerase chain reaction). Fertilization rate was evaluated by IVF. All data were analyzed using t-test. RESULTS Data was showed that expression of progesterone receptor and HAS2 in cumulus cells of mice that received prunus cerasus increased. Moreover, oocyte fertilization rate also increased significantly. CONCLUSION Prunus cerasus as an antioxidant natural can become an important medication for improving oocyte quality and opening new opportunities for infertility treatment. It is concluded that Prunus cerasus consumption could improve fertility rate by increasing progesterone receptor and HAS2 activity in cumulus cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Namvar Vansofla
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Leila Roshangar
- Cord Blood Stem Cell Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.; Department of Tissue Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Azadeh Montaseri
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.; Department of Tissue Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jafar Soleimani Rad
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.; Department of Tissue Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Choi HJ, Chung TW, Park MJ, Lee KS, Yoon Y, Kim HS, Lee JH, Kwon SM, Lee SO, Kim KJ, Baek JH, Ha KT. Paeonia lactiflora Enhances the Adhesion of Trophoblast to the Endometrium via Induction of Leukemia Inhibitory Factor Expression. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0148232. [PMID: 26839969 PMCID: PMC4739624 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0148232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2015] [Accepted: 01/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present study, we investigated the role of Paeonia lactiflora Pall. extract on embryo implantation in vitro and in vivo. A polysaccharides depleted-water extract of P. lactiflora (PL-PP) increased LIF expression in human endometrial Ishikawa cells at non-cytotoxic doses. PL-PP significantly increased the adhesion of the human trophectoderm-derived JAr spheroids to endometrial Ishikawa cells. PL-PP-induced LIF expression was decreased in the presence of a p38 kinase inhibitor SB203580 and an MEK/ERK inhibitor U0126. Furthermore, endometrial LIF knockdown by shRNA reduced the expression of integrins β3 and β5 and adhesion of JAr spheroids to Ishikawa cells. In vivo administration of PL-PP restored the implantation of mouse blastocysts in a mifepristone-induced implantation failure mice model. Our results demonstrate that PL-PP increases LIF expression via the p38 and MEK/ERK pathways and favors trophoblast adhesion to endometrial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hee-Jung Choi
- Department of Korean Medical Science, School of Korean Medicine and Korean Medicine Research Center for Healthy Aging, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Wook Chung
- Department of Korean Medical Science, School of Korean Medicine and Korean Medicine Research Center for Healthy Aging, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-Ju Park
- Department of Korean Medical Science, School of Korean Medicine and Korean Medicine Research Center for Healthy Aging, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu Sup Lee
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Pusan National University Hospital, Pusan, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngjin Yoon
- Department of Korean Obstetrics & Gynecology, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Pusan, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Sik Kim
- Laboratory of Molecular Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, SungKyunKwan University, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Hee Lee
- Laboratory for Vascular Medicine and Stem Cell Biology, Department of Physiology, Medical Research Institute, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Mo Kwon
- Laboratory for Vascular Medicine and Stem Cell Biology, Department of Physiology, Medical Research Institute, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Syng-Ook Lee
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Keimyung University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Keuk-Jun Kim
- Department of Clinical Pathology, TaeKyeung University, Gyeongsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Ho Baek
- Daechubatbaek Korean Medical Clinic, Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Tae Ha
- Department of Korean Medical Science, School of Korean Medicine and Korean Medicine Research Center for Healthy Aging, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Gyeongsangnam-do, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail:
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Jo J, Kang MJ, Lee JM, Kim H, Jerng UM. Effects of traditional Korean medicine on anti-Müllerian hormone in patients with diminished ovarian reserve: A retrospective study. Complement Ther Med 2015; 24:118-22. [PMID: 26860813 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2015.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2014] [Revised: 09/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of the present study is to retrospectively evaluate the effect of traditional Korean medicine (TKM) on ovarian reserve by measuring serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels in patients with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR). STUDY DESIGN We performed a retrospective chart review of patients with DOR who had received TKM for at least 2 months and had undergone serum AMH tests before and after TKM treatment. A total of 22 patients with DOR were included in the study. RESULTS There were no significant differences in AMH levels before and after TKM in all patients (n=22, p=0.237). However, when the study population was divided into two age groups (<38 (n=12) and ≥38 years (n=10)) to determine whether there was a age-related difference in the effect of TKM with DOR, a significant increase in AMH levels before and after TKM was observed in the age <38 (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS TKM may provide an effective option for patients aged <38 years with DOR, but it should be interpreted cautiously as more rigorous research is needed. Further studies in a larger population are needed to confirm these results and to evaluate the effects of improved ovarian reserve on fertility outcomes following TKM in patients with DOR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyoung Jo
- Department of Korean Gynecology, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-702, Republic of Korea; Department of Korean Gynecology, Conmaul Hospital, Seoul 137-881, Republic of Korea.
| | - Myung Ja Kang
- Department of Korean Gynecology, Conmaul Hospital, Seoul 137-881, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jin Moo Lee
- Department of Korean Gynecology, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-702, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hyunho Kim
- Department of Biofunctional Medicine & Diagnostics, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130-702, Republic of Korea.
| | - Ui Min Jerng
- Clinical Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejon 34054, Republic of Korea.
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Hullender Rubin LE, Opsahl MS, Wiemer KE, Mist SD, Caughey AB. Impact of whole systems traditional Chinese medicine on in-vitro fertilization outcomes. Reprod Biomed Online 2015; 30:602-12. [PMID: 25911598 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2015.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2014] [Revised: 02/06/2015] [Accepted: 02/10/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Patients undergoing IVF may receive either acupuncture or whole-systems traditional Chinese medicine (WS-TCM) as an adjuvant IVF treatment. WS-TCM is a complex intervention that can include acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, dietary, lifestyle recommendations. In this retrospective cohort study, 1231 IVF patient records were reviewed to assess the effect of adjuvant WS-TCM on IVF outcomes compared among three groups: IVF with no additional treatment; IVF and elective acupuncture on day of embryo transfer; or IVF and elective WS-TCM. The primary outcome was live birth. Of 1069 non-donor cycles, WS-TCM was associated with greater odds of live birth compared with IVF alone (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.09; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.36 to 3.21), or embryo transfer with acupuncture only (AOR 1.62; 95% CI 1.04 to 2.52). Of 162 donor cycles, WS-TCM was associated with increased live births compared with all groups (odds Ratio [OR] 3.72; 95% CI 1.05 to 13.24, unadjusted) or embryo transfer with acupuncture only (OR 4.09; 95% CI: 1.02 to 16.38, unadjusted). Overall, IVF with adjuvant WS-TCM was associated with greater odds of live birth in donor and non-donor cycles. These results should be taken cautiously as more rigorous research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee E Hullender Rubin
- Oregon College of Oriental Medicine, 75 NW Couch St, Portland, OR, 97210, USA; Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA; Portland Acupuncture Studio, Portland, OR, USA.
| | - Michael S Opsahl
- Poma Fertility, Northwest Center for Reproductive Sciences, Kirkland, WA, USA
| | - Klaus E Wiemer
- Poma Fertility, Northwest Center for Reproductive Sciences, Kirkland, WA, USA
| | - Scott D Mist
- Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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Liang B, Li L, Tang LY, Wu Q, Wu XK, Wang CC. Safety of Chinese herbal medicines during pregnancy. J Appl Toxicol 2015; 35:447-58. [PMID: 25663446 DOI: 10.1002/jat.3108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2014] [Revised: 11/26/2014] [Accepted: 11/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Miscarriage and infertility have long been public concerns due to the mental and physical suffering they bring to potential parents. There is a strong need for effective and affordable treatments. Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) have been shown to be effective for preventing miscarriage and treating infertility; however, due to the limited knowledge of their pharmacological mechanisms and unknown potential toxicity, their use has been restricted. This paper reviews 24 clinical trials of CHMs to prevent miscarriage and treat infertility. Most of these studies did not meet the requirements of randomized controlled trials. Even when using quality assessments based on the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale to assess the quality of non-randomized studies, most studies did not meet the requirements. The reviewed papers were evaluated for maternal and embryonic adverse effects, including those in animal experiments. Slight maternal effects were noted, with some reports of severe toxic effects of CHMs for preventing miscarriage and severe adverse maternal effects of CHMs used for infertility. Owing to the poor quality of the randomized controlled clinical trials and the limited number of studies, it is not possible to draw a conclusion. From animal studies, for all three gestational periods, growth delay and congenital anomalies were the most commonly recorded adverse effects. However, baseline toxicological data and detailed mechanisms are still lacking. To gain a better understanding of the potential toxic effects of CHMs, additional high-quality randomized controlled trials should be conducted, and high-throughput in vitro screening method for baseline data should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Xu M, Tian YZ, Zhu XJ, Zhang X, Zhu JY, Gu CX, Chen Y, Huang JL. Effect of Xianziyizhen Recipe Capsule on PGI2-PPARδ Signaling Pathway in Embryo Implantation Dysfunction Mice. Am J Reprod Immunol 2015; 73:545-56. [PMID: 25648617 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2014] [Accepted: 01/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM We investigated the effect of Xianziyizhen recipe capsule (XRC), a kidney-tonifying herb, on the PGI2-PPARδ signaling pathway at the maternal-fetal interface in embryo implantation dysfunction (EID) mice. METHOD OF STUDY Intragastric administration of Progynova (estradiol) or XRC was performed in EID mouse model, following experimental induction of kidney deficiency by co-treatment with chemotherapy drug hydroxyurea and antiprogesterone mifepristone. The PPARδ and IL-11 mRNA expression in endometrium were detected by real-time relative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Further, the protein expression of COX-2, PGI2, MMP-9, and TIMP-3 was detected in endometrial glandular epithelium and in stromal cells by immunohistochemical (IHC) assay. RESULTS The results showed that hydroxyurea and mifepristone-induced EID were associated with significantly lower PPARδ and IL-11 mRNA levels in endometrium and reduced COX-2, PGI2, MMP-9, and TIMP-3 levels in endometrial glandular epithelium, compared with normal controls. However, XRC and Progynova treatment reversed these effects, leading to significant increases in PPARδ and IL-11 mRNA expression, and COX-2, PGI2, MMP-9 and TIMP-3 protein levels, when compared with the levels observed in EID mice. CONCLUSION These results strongly suggested that XRC is beneficial in EID treatment and that XRC may mediate its effects through regulation of the PGI2-PPARδ signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Xu
- Department of Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of TCM, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying-Zhou Tian
- Department of Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of TCM, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiu-Jun Zhu
- Department of Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of TCM, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Guangzhou University of TCM, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing-Yan Zhu
- Department of Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of TCM, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chun-Xiao Gu
- Department of Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of TCM, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of TCM, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian-Ling Huang
- Department of Gynecology, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of TCM, Guangzhou, China
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Chinese herbal medicine for female infertility: An updated meta-analysis. Complement Ther Med 2015; 23:116-28. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2014.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2014] [Revised: 10/08/2014] [Accepted: 12/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Effects of Bu-Shen-An-Tai recipe and its two components on endometrial morphology during peri-implantation in superovulated mice. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 34:768-774. [DOI: 10.1007/s11596-014-1350-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2014] [Revised: 07/20/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Chen DL, Li N, Lin L, Long HM, Lin H, Chen J, Zhang HM, Zeng CC, Liu SH. Confocal mirco-Raman spectroscopic analysis of the antioxidant protection mechanism of the oligosaccharides extracted from Morinda officinalis on human sperm DNA. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2014; 153:119-24. [PMID: 24503037 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2014.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2013] [Revised: 12/03/2013] [Accepted: 01/18/2014] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVENCE Male infertility is a stressful and frustrating problem for the society, but a number of male infertility treatments are available as traditional Chinese medicine strategies which have been tried with variable success, while evidence is still limited on whether-or how much-herbs or supplements might help increase fertility, so the aim of this study was to investigate if the oligosaccharides extracted from Morinda officialis, a Chinese herb, is the active constituents to the fertility. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this study, we prepared the H2O2-demaged human sperm, cocultured with the oligosaccharides in vitro, then observed the changes of the DNA using confocal micro-Raman spectroscopy, and comparative analysis the differences of the spectra of different treated groups. RESULTS The results showed that the oligosaccharides extracted from Morinda officialis can keep the "Raman fingerprints" of the human sperm DNA almost the same as those of the control groups, but very different from the H2O2-induced groups, especially the intensity of bands at 787, 993, 1094, 1254, 1340, 1376, 1421, 1443, 1487, 1577 and 1662cm(-1) which could be as potential targets for the drugs finding, and further principal component analysis was successfully used to classify the Raman spectra of normal control and model groups. CONCLUSION This results suggested that the oligosaccharides can protect the DNA of human sperm from being damaged by H2O2, and which was one of the active constituents of Morinda officialis on treating infertility. It was also demonstrated that Morinda officialis as a tonifying and replenishing natural herb medicine can be used to enhance reproductive functions, and the Raman spectroscopy could be an applicable technology for screening active components in vitro from herbs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di-Ling Chen
- Southern Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510631, People׳s Republic of China
| | - Ning Li
- Southern Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510631, People׳s Republic of China
| | - Li Lin
- College of Chinese Materia Medical, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, People׳s Republic of China
| | - He-ming Long
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, Jiangxi 341000, People׳s Republic of China
| | - Hui Lin
- College of Chinese Materia Medical, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, People׳s Republic of China
| | - Jun Chen
- Department of Infertility and Sexual Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510631, People׳s Republic of China
| | - He-Ming Zhang
- Southern Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510631, People׳s Republic of China.
| | - Chang-chun Zeng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi 541004, People׳s Republic of China.
| | - Song-Hao Liu
- Southern Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510631, People׳s Republic of China
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Cochrane S, Smith CA, Possamai-Inesedy A, Bensoussan A. Acupuncture and women's health: an overview of the role of acupuncture and its clinical management in women's reproductive health. Int J Womens Health 2014; 6:313-25. [PMID: 24669195 PMCID: PMC3962314 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s38969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acupuncture and other modalities of Chinese/East Asian medicine have been used to treat women's health for many centuries. Gynecology specialties focus particularly on menstrual and reproductive disorders. Both the adoption of the use of acupuncture outside Asia, and the incorporation of scientific analysis in Asia have challenged biomedical conceptions of what can be achieved with this treatment method. The scale of research activity in relation to acupuncture and women's health has increased over the last 20 years. OBJECTIVE This review aims to explore the research evidence in relation to acupuncture use for women's reproductive disorders, focusing on both clinical findings and experimental research on acupuncture's mechanisms of action in relation to women's health. METHODS A narrative literature search was undertaken using searches of electronic databases and manual searches of journals and textbooks. The search included all literature published prior to June 2013. The literature was assessed as to the nature of the study it was reporting and findings synthesized into a commentary. RESULTS For acupuncture's mechanism of action the search resulted in 114 relevant documents; in relation to clinical reports on the use of acupuncture for women's health 204 documents were found and assessed. CONCLUSION There is preliminary data indicating acupuncture may improve menstrual health and coping for women experiencing delays falling pregnant. There is experimental data showing that acupuncture can influence female reproductive functioning, although the actual mechanisms involved are not yet clarified. Further well-conducted clinical research would benefit our understanding of the usefulness of acupuncture to women's health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Caroline A Smith
- Centre for Complementary Medicine Research, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Alphia Possamai-Inesedy
- School of Social Sciences and Psychology, University of Western Sydney - Campbelltown Campus, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Alan Bensoussan
- Centre for Complementary Medicine Research, Penrith, NSW, Australia
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Can Chinese herbal medicine improve outcomes of in vitro fertilization? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. PLoS One 2013; 8:e81650. [PMID: 24339951 PMCID: PMC3858252 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0081650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2013] [Accepted: 10/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A large number of infertile couples are choosing Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) as an adjuvant therapy to improve their success when undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). There is no systematic review to evaluate the impact of CHM on the IVF outcomes. Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of CHM with concurrent IVF versus IVF alone on the outcomes of IVF and its safety. Methods The protocol of this study is registered at PROSPERO. Eligible RCTs searched from 8 databases which compared a combination of CHM and IVF with IVF alone were included. Two authors independently selected studies, extracted data and assessed methodological quality. Meta-analysis of RCTs was conducted if there was non-significant heterogeneity (evaluated by I2 test) among trials. All statistical analysis was performed using RevMan 5.1 software. Results Twenty trials involving 1721 women were included in the meta-analysis. Three trials were evaluated as having an unclear risk of bias. The remaining trials were evaluated as having a high risk of bias. Combination of CHM and IVF significantly increases clinical pregnancy rates (OR 2.04, 95%CI 1.67 to 2.49, p<0.00001) and ongoing pregnancy rates (OR 1.91, 95%CI 1.17 to 3.10, p = 0.009). Use of CHM after embryo transfer had no better outcome in reducing the rate of ovarian hyper stimulation syndrome (OR 0.39, 95%CI 0.14 to 1.11, p = 0.08). Conclusions This meta-analysis showed that combination of IVF and CHM used in the included trials improve IVF success, however due to the high risk of bias observed with the trials, the significant differences found with the meta-analysis are unlikely to be accurate. No conclusion could be drawn with respect to the reproductive toxicity of CHM. Further large randomized placebo controlled trials are warranted to confirm these findings before recommending women to take CHM to improve their IVF success.
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Pastuszek E, Liss J, Kulwikowska P, Wiśniewska J, Łukaszuk K. Influence of acupuncture on pregnancy rates in women undergoing in vitro fertilization. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.poamed.2013.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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de Lacey S, Smith C. Acupuncture and Infertility Treatment: Is There More to the Outcome for Women than Pregnancy? Med Acupunct 2013. [DOI: 10.1089/acu.2012.0903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sheryl de Lacey
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Caroline Smith
- Centre for Complementary Medicine Research, University of Western Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Quality of life, coping strategies and support needs of women seeking Traditional Chinese Medicine for infertility and viable pregnancy in Australia: a mixed methods approach. BMC WOMENS HEALTH 2013; 13:17. [PMID: 23570255 PMCID: PMC3635943 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6874-13-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2012] [Accepted: 04/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility affects about 15% of couples in Western-societies with most progressing to fertility clinics for treatment. Despite being common, infertility is often experienced as a lonely road for affected couples. In this paper we expand on our previously published findings of women's experiences with infertility or difficulty of viable pregnancy who had sought Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapy in Australia, and focus on women's quality of life, coping strategies, and support needs. METHODS We applied mixed methods using the Tuebingen Quality of Life and the COPE questionnaires and in-depth interviews with 25 women with primary or secondary infertility, recurrent miscarriages or unexplained stillbirth, and who had consulted a TCM practitioner. We used a thematic approach to analyse the interviews, and descriptive statistics to evaluate questionnaire responses. RESULTS Women reported through both questionnaires and interviews compromised quality of life due to the high level of distress, guilt, grief, and frustration caused by infertility. However, our women represented a highly motivated sample, actively seeking alternative support. While the TCM approach to infertility management increased women's sense of personal agency and control through education and continuity of care, the need for greater understanding and support on a societal level remains. CONCLUSIONS In infertility, ongoing emotional and instrumental support is pivotal to the wellbeing and quality of life of the affected. Traditional Chinese Medicine addresses some support needs in infertility not routinely available in the Western model of care. More peer-led and professional-led support groups are greatly needed for women experiencing infertility to help break isolation and raise awareness of integrative approaches to fertility management.
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Anderson B, Rosenthal L. Acupuncture and in vitro fertilization: Critique of the evidence and application to clinical practice. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2013; 19:1-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2012.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2012] [Accepted: 11/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Glickman-Simon R, Basu Ray I. Acupuncture, Lactobacillus Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine, Sanchitongtshu, and Honey. Explore (NY) 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2012.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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