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Nikolaeva M, Arefieva A, Babayan A, Aksenov V, Zhukova A, Kalinina E, Krechetova L, Sukhikh G. Stress Biomarkers Transferred Into the Female Reproductive Tract by Seminal Plasma Are Associated with ICSI Outcomes. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:1732-1746. [PMID: 38393625 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01486-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to determine whether male stress is related to seminal stress biomarkers and pregnancy achievement in women exposed to their partner's seminal plasma (SP) in the intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycle. In this pilot prospective study, 20 couples undergoing ICSI, as well as 5 fertile sperm donors and 10 saliva donors, were investigated. Women were exposed to their partner's SP via unprotected sexual intercourse during the ICSI cycle and intravaginal application on the day of ovum pick-up (Day-OPU). Semen samples were collected from male partners by masturbation on the Day-OPU. Saliva and serum samples were collected prior to masturbation. Body fluids were frozen at - 80 °C until assayed. Biomarkers of activity of the sympathetic adrenomedullary axis (salivary alpha-amylase and adrenaline), sympathetic neural axis (noradrenaline and dopamine), hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) system (cortisol), and immune system (C-reactive protein and interleukin (IL)-18) were estimated to examine their association with SP composition and clinical pregnancy achievement. The clinical pregnancy rate was 45.0%. In the unsuccessful ICSI group, blunted levels of salivary and serum cortisol were found compared to the successful ICSI group and the fertile sperm donors. With regard to seminal markers, decreased cortisol level and elevated noradrenaline, noradrenaline/cortisol ratio, and lL-18 levels were strongly associated with ICSI failure (areas under the ROC curves were, 0.813, 0.848, 0.899, and 0.828, respectively). These findings confirm that stress response systems activity affects SP composition, which in turn is associated with ICSI outcomes in women exposed to their partner's SP during an ICSI cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Nikolaeva
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named After Academician V.I. Kulakov, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Alla Arefieva
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named After Academician V.I. Kulakov, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alina Babayan
- Department of Assisted Technologies in Treatment of Infertility, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named After Academician V.I. Kulakov, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Anastasia Zhukova
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named After Academician V.I. Kulakov, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena Kalinina
- Department of Assisted Technologies in Treatment of Infertility, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named After Academician V.I. Kulakov, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Liubov Krechetova
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named After Academician V.I. Kulakov, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Gennady Sukhikh
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named After Academician V.I. Kulakov, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
- First Moscow State Medical University Named After I.M. Sechenov, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia
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van den Berg JS, Molina NM, Altmäe S, Arends B, Steba GS. A systematic review identifying seminal plasma biomarkers and their predictive ability on IVF and ICSI outcomes. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 48:103622. [PMID: 38128376 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
The diverse nature and high molecule concentration of seminal plasma (SP) makes this fluid a good potential source for a potential biomarker that could predict assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes. Currently, semen quality parameters cannot accurately predict ART outcomes. A systematic literature search was conducted to identify human SP biomarkers with potential predictive ability for the outcomes of IVF and intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Observational cohort and case-control studies describing the association between biomarkers in human SP and the outcome of infertile men attending for ART were included. Forty-three studies were selected, reporting on 89 potential SP biomarkers (grouped as oxidative stress, proteins glycoproteins, metabolites, immune system components, metals and trace elements and nucleic acids). The present review supports 32 molecules in SP as potentially relevant biomarkers for predicting ART outcomes; 23 molecules were reported once and nine molecules were reported in more than one study; IL-18 and TGF-β1-IL-18 ratio were confirmed in distinct studies. This review presents the most comprehensive overview of relevant SP biomarkers to predict ART outcomes to date, which is of clinical interest for infertility investigations and assisted reproduction; nevertheless, its potential is under-exploited. This review could serve as starting point for designing an all-encompassing study for biomarkers in SP and their predictive ability for ART outcomes, and for developing a non-invasive diagnostic tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonna S van den Berg
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, Division Female and Baby, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Nerea M Molina
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Faculty of Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - Signe Altmäe
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Faculty of Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Brigitte Arends
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, Division Female and Baby, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Gaby Sarina Steba
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, Division Female and Baby, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
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Balci CN, Acar N. NLRP3 inflammasome pathway, the hidden balance in pregnancy: A comprehensive review. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 161:104173. [PMID: 38043434 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.104173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
The balance of the inflammatory response is indispensable during pregnancy. Inflammasomes are the cytosolic supramolecular protein complexes activated by pattern recognition receptors. These receptors recognize the pathogen and damage/danger-associated molecular patterns. NLRP3 inflammasome complex consists mainly of NLRP3 (leucine-rich repeat-containing and pyrin domain-containing protein 3), a cytosolic sensor molecule, ASC (apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD) protein and a cysteine protease pro-caspase-1 as an effector molecule. This complex has a role in producing inflammatory cytokines, interleukin 1 beta and interleukin 18, and inflammasome-dependent programmed cell death pathway pyroptosis. In this review, we focused on and summarised the NLRP3 inflammasome and its roles in normal and pathological pregnancies. The NLRP3 inflammasome pathway influences endometrial receptivity and embryo invasion by inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Abnormal inflammasome activation in the endometrium may adversely affect endometrial receptivity. In addition, NLRP3 inflammasome pathway overactivation may mediate the abnormal inflammatory response at the maternal-fetal interface and be associated with pregnancy complications, such as recurrent implantation failure, pregnancy loss, pre-term birth and pre-eclampsia. Therefore, targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway could develop a new therapeutic approach to prevent the aforementioned pregnancy pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cemre Nur Balci
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Nuray Acar
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey.
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Zhang XX, Wu XH. Decreased CD56+CD16-CD94+uNK cells in the mid-luteal phase in women with recurrent implantation failure are associated with IL-15 deficiency. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13794. [PMID: 38009057 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13794] [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: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Whether the abnormal development of uterine natural killer (uNK) cells contributes to women with recurrent implantation failure (RIF) remains unclear. METHOD OF STUDY We characterized the development of uNK cells and peripheral blood NK cells (pbNK) in the mid-luteal phase in women with RIF (n = 31) and controls (n = 14) by flow cytometry. Endometrial IL-15 mRNA expression was studied by quantitative reverse transcription-PCR. The GSE58144 dataset was used to validate the correlation results. RESULTS We found decreased proportions of stage 4 CD56+CD16-CD94+ uNK cells (median: 9.56% vs. 17.78%, P .014) and increased proportions of stage 6 CD56+CD16+CD57+ uNK cells (median: 1.54% vs. 0.74%, P = .020) in the mid-luteal endometrium of women with RIF compared to fertile women. We also found that there was no quantitative correlation between uNK cells and the corresponding pbNK cell subpopulations (P > .05). In addition, IL-15 mRNA levels in the mid-luteal endometrium were positively correlated with the proportion of CD56+ uNK cells (r = .392, P = .008), especially with stage 4 uNK cell populations (r = .408, P = .005). CONCLUSIONS We showed that the proportion of stage 4 uNK cells decreased in the RIF group compared to controls, and the decrease in stage 4 uNK cells correlated positively with low IL-15 mRNA expression. We suggest that the reduced stage 4 uNK cells in women with RIF are associated with IL-15 deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Xian Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Gynecology and Obstetrics Hospital Affiliated to Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Xiao-Hua Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Gynecology and Obstetrics Hospital Affiliated to Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
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Fan J, Zhang J, Xu S, Liu H, Lv W, Bi X, Liu Y, Shi W, Zhang Y, Wu X. The predictive value of uterine artery Doppler in the success rate of pregnancy from the first frozen embryo transfer during the implantation window. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2023; 23:825. [PMID: 38037011 PMCID: PMC10688035 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-06150-y] [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: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Worldwide, frozen embryo transfer (FET) has become a new strategy for the treatment of infertility. The success of FET is closely related to endometrial receptivity. Does uterine artery Doppler during the implantation window predict pregnancy outcome from the first FET? METHODS A total of 115 retrospectively collected cycles were included in the study, with 64 cycles of clinical pregnancy and 51 cycles of nonclinical pregnancy; There were 99 nonabsent end-diastolic flow (NAEDF) cycles and 16 absent end-diastolic flow (AEDF) cycles. The differences in uterine artery Doppler findings between different pregnancy outcomes were investigated. The clinical pregnancy rate and spontaneous abortion rate in the NAEDF and AEDF groups were compared. The predictive value of uterine artery Doppler during the implantation window in the success rate of pregnancy from the first FET was also investigated. RESULTS Between the clinical pregnancy group and the nonclinical pregnancy group, there were no significant differences in the mean resistance index (mRI) (Z = -1.065, p = 0.287), mean pulsatility index (mPI) (Z = -0.340, p = 0.734), and mean peak systolic/end-diastolic velocity(mS/D) (Z = -0.953, p = 0.341); there were significant differences in the mean peak systolic velocity (mPSV) (Z = -1.982, p = 0.048) and mean end-diastolic velocity (mEDV) (Z = -2.767, p = 0.006). Between the NAEDF and AEDF groups, there was no significant difference in the clinical pregnancy rate (χ2 = 0.003, p = 0.959), and there was a significant difference in the spontaneous abortion rate (χ2 = 3.465, p = 0.019). Compared with uterine artery Doppler alone, its combination with artificial abortion history, waist-to-hip ratio, LH (Luteinizing hormone) of P (Progesterone) administration day, mPSV and mEDV had a higher predictive value regarding clinical pregnancy from the first FET [ROC-AUC 0.782, 95% CI (0.680-0.883) vs. 0.692, 95% CI (0.587-0.797)]. CONCLUSIONS Uterine artery Doppler, particularly mPSV and mEDV during the implantation window, was useful for predicting clinical pregnancy, and AEDF was related to spontaneous abortion in the first trimester. Uterine artery Doppler combined with artificial abortion history, waist-to-hip ratio, LH of P administration day, mPSV and mEDV have a higher predictive value than uterine artery Doppler alone regarding the pregnancy from the first FET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junmei Fan
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center of Shanxi, Affiliated of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China.
| | - Junkun Zhang
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Suming Xu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center of Shanxi, Affiliated of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Huiping Liu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center of Shanxi, Affiliated of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Weigang Lv
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xingyu Bi
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center of Shanxi, Affiliated of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Yanling Liu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center of Shanxi, Affiliated of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Wenjing Shi
- Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Yuxia Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center of Shanxi, Affiliated of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Xueqing Wu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Children's Hospital of Shanxi and Women Health Center of Shanxi, Affiliated of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China.
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Rizano A, Margiana R, Supardi S, Narulita P. Exploring the future potential of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells and their derivatives to support assisted reproductive technology for female infertility applications. Hum Cell 2023; 36:1604-1619. [PMID: 37407748 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-023-00941-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Women's infertility impacts the quality of life of both patients and couples and has multifaceted dimensions that increase the number of challenges associated with female infertility and how to face them. Female reproductive disorders, such as premature ovarian failure (POF), endometriosis, Asherman syndrome (AS), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and preeclampsia, can stimulate infertility. In the last decade, translational medicine has advanced, and scientists are focusing on infertility therapy with innovative attitudes. Recent investigations have suggested that stem cell treatments could be safe and effective. Stem cell therapy has established a novel method for treating women's infertility as part of a regeneration approach. The chief properties and potential of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) in the future of women's infertility should be considered by researchers. Due to their high abundance, great ability to self-renew, and high differentiation capacity, as well as less ethical concerns, MSC-based therapy has been found to be an effective alternative strategy to the previous methods for treating female infertility, such as intrauterine insemination, in vitro fertilization, medicines, and surgical procedures. These types of stem cells exert their beneficial role by releasing active mediators, promoting cell homing, and contributing to immune modulation. Here we first provide an overview of MSCs and their crucial roles in both biological and immunological processes. The next large chapter covers current preclinical and clinical studies on the application of MSCs to treat various female reproductive disorders. Finally, we deliberate on the extant challenges that hinder the application of MSCs in female infertility and suggest plausible measures to alleviate these impediments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Rizano
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
- Andrology Program, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
- Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Ria Margiana
- Andrology Program, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia.
- Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia.
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.
- Master's Programme Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.
- Indonesia General Academic Hospital, Depok, Indonesia.
- Ciptomangunkusumo General Academic Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia.
| | - Supardi Supardi
- Andrology Program, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
- Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Pety Narulita
- Andrology Program, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
- Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia
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Lédée N, Petitbarat M, Prat-Ellenberg L, Dray G, Vaucoret V, Kazhalawi A, Rodriguez-Pozo A, Habeichi N, Ruoso L, Cassuto NG, Rahmati M. The Next Frontier in ART: Harnessing the Uterine Immune Profile for Improved Performance. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11322. [PMID: 37511080 PMCID: PMC10379072 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproduction techniques have improved considerably in recent decades, but despite these advances, success rates remain relatively low. Endometrial immune profiling involves the analysis of cytokine biomarkers in the endometrium during the mid-luteal phase. This profiling aims to provide insights into the immune environment of the uterus. The aim is to identify immune disturbances and thus guide the development of personalized therapeutic approaches. The first part of the review looks back at the emergence of innovative concepts, highlighting the specificity of the human uterine environment at the time of implantation. Based on this new knowledge, biomarkers have been selected for endometrial immune profiling. The second part details the results of clinical studies conducted over the last ten years. These clinical results suggest that this approach can increase the rate of live births in patients suffering from repeated implantation failures or repeated pregnancy loss. Uterine immune profiling represents a clinical innovation that can significantly improve the performance of medically assisted reproduction treatments through personalized strategies tailored to the local immune profile. Innovation in personalized medicine for assisted reproduction is crucial to improving the success rates of fertility treatments, while reducing the risks and costs associated with ineffective or unnecessary interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Lédée
- MatriceLab Innove Laboratory, Immeuble Les Gemeaux, 2 Rue Antoine Etex, 94000 Creteil, France
- Centre d'Assistance Médicale à la Procréation, Hôpital des Bluets, 4 Rue Lasson, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Marie Petitbarat
- MatriceLab Innove Laboratory, Immeuble Les Gemeaux, 2 Rue Antoine Etex, 94000 Creteil, France
| | - Laura Prat-Ellenberg
- Centre d'Assistance Médicale à la Procréation, Hôpital des Bluets, 4 Rue Lasson, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Géraldine Dray
- Centre d'Assistance Médicale à la Procréation, Hôpital des Bluets, 4 Rue Lasson, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Virginie Vaucoret
- Centre d'Assistance Médicale à la Procréation, Hôpital des Bluets, 4 Rue Lasson, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Alaa Kazhalawi
- MatriceLab Innove Laboratory, Immeuble Les Gemeaux, 2 Rue Antoine Etex, 94000 Creteil, France
| | - André Rodriguez-Pozo
- MatriceLab Innove Laboratory, Immeuble Les Gemeaux, 2 Rue Antoine Etex, 94000 Creteil, France
| | - Nada Habeichi
- MatriceLab Innove Laboratory, Immeuble Les Gemeaux, 2 Rue Antoine Etex, 94000 Creteil, France
| | - Lea Ruoso
- Laboratoire Drouot, 21 Rue Drouot, 75010 Paris, France
| | | | - Mona Rahmati
- London Women's Clinic, 113-115 Harley Street, London W1G 6AP, UK
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Coutanceau B, Dos Santos E, Swierkowski Blanchard N, Sanchez Louboutin A, Boitrelle F, Margueritte F, Vialard F, Serazin V, Fathallah K. Should the Treatment of Patients with Repeated Embryo Implantation Failure Be Adapted as a Function of the Endometrial Cytokine Profile? A Single-Center Experience. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11030817. [PMID: 36979796 PMCID: PMC10044898 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11030817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Repeated embryo implantation failures (RIF) is a source of distress and frustration for patients and clinicians alike. Today's approaches for treating RIF are largely empirical and have limited effectiveness. The main causes of RIF are poor endometrial receptivity and poor-quality embryos. Recent studies have suggested the involvement of immune dysregulation due to an imbalance between T-helper (Th) 1 and Th2 cytokines; this opens up perspectives for treating women with RIF and increasing the implantation rate. We conducted an interventional, longitudinal, prospective cohort study of the impact of correcting the cytokine imbalance on the clinical pregnancy rate in women with RIF. Seventy-seven women with RIF underwent an endometrial biopsy during the implantation window. The cytokine profile was evaluated by studying the activation and maturation of uterine natural killer (uNK) cells, the IL-15/Fn-14 mRNA ratio (a biomarker of uNK activation/maturation), and the IL-18/TWEAK mRNA ratio (a marker of angiogenesis and the Th1/Th2 balance). Personalized treatment was initiated for women with an abnormal endometrial cytokine profile (hyper-activation or hypo-activation). We documented the clinical pregnancy rate after subsequent embryo transfers. In total, 72.7% (56/77) of patients had an abnormal endometrial cytokine profile (hyper-activation in 68.8% (n = 53) and hypo-activation in 3.9% (n = 3). After treatment (or not) as a function of the endometrial profile, the overall clinical pregnancy rate was 30.2%. Our results indicated a potential positive effect of appropriate treatment on the ongoing pregnancy rate in women with RIF, despite the small number of cases analyzed. The results must now be validated in randomized studies with larger numbers of well-characterized patients. By applying a previously published decision tree, this treatment approach could be implemented in clinics worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bérangère Coutanceau
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Poissy-Saint-Germain-en-Laye Hospital, 78300 Poissy, France
| | - Esther Dos Santos
- Medical Biology Laboratory, Poissy-Saint-Germain-en-Laye Hospital, 78300 Poissy, France
- RhUMA Team, UMR-BREED (INRAE, UVSQ, ENVA), UFR Simone Veil-Santé, 78180 Montigny le Bretonneux, France
| | | | - Anne Sanchez Louboutin
- Department of Anatomy and Pathology, Poissy-Saint-Germain-en-Laye Hospital, 78300 Poissy, France
| | - Florence Boitrelle
- Reproductive Biology Department, Poissy-Saint-Germain-en-Laye Hospital, 78300 Poissy, France
| | - François Margueritte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Poissy-Saint-Germain-en-Laye Hospital, 78300 Poissy, France
| | - François Vialard
- RhUMA Team, UMR-BREED (INRAE, UVSQ, ENVA), UFR Simone Veil-Santé, 78180 Montigny le Bretonneux, France
- Department of Genetics, Poissy-Saint-Germain-en-Laye Hospital, 78300 Poissy, France
| | - Valérie Serazin
- Medical Biology Laboratory, Poissy-Saint-Germain-en-Laye Hospital, 78300 Poissy, France
- RhUMA Team, UMR-BREED (INRAE, UVSQ, ENVA), UFR Simone Veil-Santé, 78180 Montigny le Bretonneux, France
| | - Khadija Fathallah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Poissy-Saint-Germain-en-Laye Hospital, 78300 Poissy, France
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Ma J, Gao W, Li D. Recurrent implantation failure: A comprehensive summary from etiology to treatment. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 13:1061766. [PMID: 36686483 PMCID: PMC9849692 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1061766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Implantation is the first step in human reproduction. Successful implantation depends on the crosstalk between embryo and endometrium. Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is a clinical phenomenon characterized by a lack of implantation after the transfer of several embryos and disturbs approximately 10% couples undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer. Despite increasing literature on RIF, there is still no widely accepted definition or standard protocol for the diagnosis and treatment of RIF. Progress in predicting and preventing RIF has been hampered by a lack of widely accepted definitions. Most couples with RIF can become pregnant after clinical intervention. The prognosis for couples with RIF is related to maternal age. RIF can be caused by immunology, thrombophilias, endometrial receptivity, microbiome, anatomical abnormalities, male factors, and embryo aneuploidy. It is important to determine the most possible etiologies, and individualized treatment aimed at the primary cause seems to be an effective method for increasing the implantation rate. Couples with RIF require psychological support and appropriate clinical intervention. Further studies are required to evaluate diagnostic method and he effectiveness of each therapy, and guide clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junying Ma
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine, China Medical University, National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
- Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Diseases and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
| | - Wenyan Gao
- Department of Obstetrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Da Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine, China Medical University, National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
- Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Diseases and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
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Beyond fusion: A novel role for ERVW-1 in trophoblast proliferation and type I interferon receptor expression. Placenta 2022; 126:150-159. [PMID: 35816776 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2022.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Throughout human pregnancy there is a delicate balance between the maintenance of a proliferative, trophoblast stem cell pool (TSC) and the differentiation from TSC to placental cell sub-lineages like the syncytiotrophoblast (STB). The STB is comprised of multinucleated cells that come into direct contact with maternal blood and provides the first line of defense to protect the fetus from maternal infections. The differentiation of TSC towards STB is primarily driven by human endogenous retroviruses (HERV), specifically Syncytin-1 (ERVW-1) and Syncytin-2 (ERVFRD-1). Beyond cell fusion, there is also evidence to suggest they can regulate cell proliferation and an antiviral response in other cell types. Therefore, we hypothesized that HERV can regulate cell proliferation as well as an antiviral response in TSCs. METHOD shRNA was used to knockdown ERVW-1 in TSCs and revealed reduction in cell proliferation, differentiation, and cell fusion. RT-qPCR and flow cytometry was used to measure other HERV and the presence of Type I and Type II interferon receptors. RESULTS ERVW-1 knockdown (KD) TSCs had a significantly longer cell doubling time and reduced expression of the proliferation marker Ki67. ERVW-1 KD cells also demonstrated a marked deficiency in the ability to differentiate. Interestingly, ERVFRD-1 was upregulated in both ERVW-1 KD TSC and STB cells compared to controls. Finally, we found that the Type I interferon receptors, IFNAR1 and IFNAR2 were significantly increased in ERVW-1 KD STB cells. DISCUSSION These findings uncover critical HERV functions in the trophoblasts and a novel role for ERVW-1 during early human placental development.
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Von Woon E, Greer O, Shah N, Nikolaou D, Johnson M, Male V. Number and function of uterine natural killer cells in recurrent miscarriage and implantation failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 28:548-582. [PMID: 35265977 PMCID: PMC9247428 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterine natural killer cells (uNK) are the most abundant lymphocytes found in the decidua during implantation and in first trimester pregnancy. They are important for early placental development, especially trophoblast invasion and transformation of the spiral arteries. However, inappropriate uNK function has been implicated in reproductive failure, such as recurrent miscarriage (RM) or recurrent implantation failure (RIF). Previous studies have mainly focussed on peripheral NK cells (pNK), despite the well-documented differences in pNK and uNK phenotype and function. In recent years, there has been an explosion of studies conducted on uNK, providing a more suitable representation of the immune environment at the maternal-foetal interface. Here, we summarize the evidence from studies published on uNK in women with RM/RIF compared with controls. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The objectives of this systematic review and meta-analysis are to evaluate: differences in uNK level in women with RM/RIF compared with controls; pregnancy outcome in women with RM/RIF stratified by high and normal uNK levels; correlation between uNK and pNK in women with RM/RIF; and differences in uNK activity in women with RM/RIF compared with controls. SEARCH METHODS MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science and Cochrane Trials Registry were searched from inception up to December 2020 and studies were selected in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Meta-analyses were performed for uNK level, pregnancy outcome and uNK/pNK correlation. Narrative synthesis was conducted for uNK activity. Risk of bias was assessed by ROBINS-I and publication bias by Egger's test. OUTCOMES Our initial search yielded 4636 articles, of which 60 articles were included in our systematic review. Meta-analysis of CD56+ uNK level in women with RM compared with controls showed significantly higher levels in women with RM in subgroup analysis of endometrial samples (standardized mean difference (SMD) 0.49, CI 0.08, 0.90; P = 0.02; I2 88%; 1100 women). Meta-analysis of CD56+ uNK level in endometrium of women with RIF compared with controls showed significantly higher levels in women with RIF (SMD 0.49, CI 0.01, 0.98; P = 0.046; I2 84%; 604 women). There was no difference in pregnancy outcome in women with RM/RIF stratified by uNK level, and no significant correlation between pNK and uNK levels in women with RM/RIF. There was wide variation in studies conducted on uNK activity, which can be broadly divided into regulation and receptors, uNK cytotoxicity, cytokine secretion and effect of uNK on angiogenesis. These studies were largely equivocal in their results on cytokine secretion, but most studies found lower expression of inhibitory receptors and increased expression of angiogenic factors in women with RM. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The observation of significantly increased uNK level in endometrium of women with RM and RIF may point to an underlying disturbance of the immune milieu culminating in implantation and/or placentation failure. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying pathophysiology. The evidence for measuring pNK as an indicator of uNK behaviour is sparse, and of limited clinical use. Measurement of uNK level/activity may be more useful as a diagnostic tool, however, a standardized reference range must be established before this can be of clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ee Von Woon
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Institute of Developmental Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, UK
- The Fertility Centre, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, UK
| | - Orene Greer
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Institute of Developmental Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Nishel Shah
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Institute of Developmental Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Mark Johnson
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Institute of Developmental Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Victoria Male
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Institute of Developmental Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Sun B, Yeh J. Non-Invasive and Mechanism-Based Molecular Assessment of Endometrial Receptivity During the Window of Implantation: Current Concepts and Future Prospective Testing Directions. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 4:863173. [PMID: 36303672 PMCID: PMC9580756 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.863173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Suboptimal endometrial receptivity and altered embryo-endometrial crosstalk account for approximately two-thirds of human implantation failures. Current tests of the window of implantation, such as endometrial thickness measurements and the endometrial receptivity assay, do not consistently improve clinical outcomes as measured by live birth rates. Understanding the mechanisms regulating the endometrial receptivity during the window of implantation is a critical step toward developing clinically meaningful tests. In this narrative review, the available literature is evaluated regarding mechanisms that regulate the endometrial receptivity during the window of implantation and the current tests developed. Overall, both animal and human studies point to five possible and interrelated mechanisms regulating the endometrial window of implantation: suitable synchrony between endometrial cells, adequate synchrony between the endometrium and the embryo, standard progesterone signaling and endometrial responses to progesterone, silent genetic variations, and typical morphological characteristics of the endometrial glands. The biological basis of current clinical markers or tests of window of implantation is poor. Future studies to elucidate the mechanisms shaping the window of implantation and to investigate the potential markers based on these mechanisms are required. In addition, molecular testing of the endometrium at single-cell resolution should be an initial step toward developing clinically meaningful tests for the optimal window of implantation. As understanding of the optimal window of implantation continues to evolve, one can envision the future development of non-invasive, mechanism-based testing of the window of implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bei Sun
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Sackler School of Medicine, New York State/American Program of Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - John Yeh
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, UMass Memorial Medical Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: John Yeh
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Kwak-Kim J, AlSubki L, Luu T, Ganieva U, Thees A, Dambaeva S, Gilman-Sachs A. The role of immunologic tests for subfertility in the clinical environment. Fertil Steril 2022; 117:1132-1143. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Bączkowska M, Dutsch-Wicherek MM, Przytuła E, Faryna J, Wojtyła C, Ali M, Knafel A, Ciebiera M. Expression of the Costimulatory Molecule B7-H4 in the Decidua and Placental Tissues in Patients with Placental Abruption. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10040918. [PMID: 35453668 PMCID: PMC9033103 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10040918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
B7 homolog 4 protein (B7-H4), a member of the B7 family, is a immunomodulatory membrane protein. The aim of the study was to evaluate the expression of this protein in the decidua and placental tissues in case of placental abruption (PA) compared to cases of retained placental tissue (RPT) and controls. Tissue samples were obtained from 47 patients with PA, 60 patients with RPT, and 41 healthy controls. The samples were stained for B7-H4 expression, analyzed by an expert pathologist, and a semi-quantitative scale was applied. A statistical analysis revealed that the expression of B7-H4 was significantly higher in the decidua in PA samples compared to samples from patients with RPT (p-value < 0.001) and healthy controls (p-value < 0.001). The expression of B7-H4 in the placental chorionic villus was significantly higher in PA samples in relation to samples from healthy controls (p-value < 0.001) but not in relation to RPT samples (p-value = 0.0853). This finding suggests that B7-H4 might play an important role in mechanisms restoring reproductive tract homeostasis. Further research is necessary in regard to the role of B7-H4 in PA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Bączkowska
- Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 01-809 Warsaw, Poland; (M.B.); (A.K.)
| | | | - Ewa Przytuła
- Department of Pathology, Bielański Hospital, 01-809 Warsaw, Poland; (E.P.); (J.F.)
| | - Jan Faryna
- Department of Pathology, Bielański Hospital, 01-809 Warsaw, Poland; (E.P.); (J.F.)
| | - Cezary Wojtyła
- International Prevention Research Institute-Collaborating Centre, Calisia University, 62-800 Kalisz, Poland;
| | - Mohamed Ali
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt;
| | - Anna Knafel
- Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 01-809 Warsaw, Poland; (M.B.); (A.K.)
| | - Michał Ciebiera
- Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 01-809 Warsaw, Poland; (M.B.); (A.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-607-155-177
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Pantos K, Grigoriadis S, Maziotis E, Pistola K, Xystra P, Pantou A, Kokkali G, Pappas A, Lambropoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Simopoulou M. The Role of Interleukins in Recurrent Implantation Failure: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:2198. [PMID: 35216313 PMCID: PMC8875813 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is a multifactorial condition affecting 10-15% of in vitro fertilization (IVF) couples. Data suggest that functional dysregulation of the endometrial immune system constitutes one of the main pathophysiological mechanisms leading to RIF. The aim of this article is to provide a thorough presentation and evaluation of the role of interleukins (ILs) in the pathogenesis of RIF. A comprehensive literature screening was performed summarizing current evidence. During implantation, several classes of ILs are secreted by epithelial and stromal endometrial cells, including IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IL-15, IL-18, and the leukemia inhibitory factor. These ILs create a perplexing network that orchestrates both proliferation and maturation of uterine natural killer cells, controls the function of regulatory T and B cells inhibiting the secretion of antifetal antibodies, and supports trophoblast invasion and decidua formation. The existing data indicate associations between ILs and RIF. The extensive analysis performed herein concludes that the dysregulation of the ILs network indeed jeopardizes implantation leading to RIF. This review further proposes a mapping of future research on how to move forward from mere associations to robust molecular data that will allow an accurate profiling of ILs in turn enabling evidence-based consultancy and decision making when addressing RIF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Pantos
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.P.); (A.P.); (G.K.); (A.P.); (K.S.)
| | - Sokratis Grigoriadis
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (K.P.); (P.X.)
| | - Evangelos Maziotis
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (K.P.); (P.X.)
| | - Kalliopi Pistola
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (K.P.); (P.X.)
| | - Paraskevi Xystra
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (K.P.); (P.X.)
| | - Agni Pantou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.P.); (A.P.); (G.K.); (A.P.); (K.S.)
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (K.P.); (P.X.)
| | - Georgia Kokkali
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.P.); (A.P.); (G.K.); (A.P.); (K.S.)
| | - Athanasios Pappas
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.P.); (A.P.); (G.K.); (A.P.); (K.S.)
| | - Maria Lambropoulou
- Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece;
| | - Konstantinos Sfakianoudis
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.P.); (A.P.); (G.K.); (A.P.); (K.S.)
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (K.P.); (P.X.)
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16
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Niu Z, Zhou M, Xia L, Zhao S, Zhang A. Uterine cytokine profiles after low-molecular-weight heparin administration are associated with pregnancy outcomes of patients with repeated implantation failure. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1008923. [PMID: 36568084 PMCID: PMC9772440 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1008923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Low molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) plays a role in repeated implantation failure (RIF), but outcomes are controversial. LMWH can potentially modulate local immune responses associated with the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. The study aimed to explore the effects of LWMH in uterine inflammatory cytokine profiles and pregnancy outcomes of patients with repeated implantation failure (RIF) but without thrombophilia. METHODS We compared clinical characteristics and reproductive outcomes among 326 patients with RIF, but not thrombophilia, undergoing frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle with or without LMWH treatment. Endometrium secretions were aspirated from both groups after 3 days of progesterone administration before and after LMWH treatment. Cytokine mRNA expression was analyzed in primary endometrial cells in vitro. RESULTS The clinical and ongoing pregnancy rates did not significantly differ between the groups (31.5% vs. 24.4%, p = 0.15; 29.6% vs. 20.7%, p = 0.06). Concentrations of IL-6 and granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) in uterine secretions were significantly increased in the LWMH group, regardless of pregnancy outcomes (P < 0.05). And, in all patients treated with LWMH, those of secreted IL-6, IL-15 and G-CSF were significantly increased in pregnant group (P < 0.05). The expression of mRNA for G-CSF and IL-6 was significantly increased in human endometrial stromal cells in vitro (P < 0.05) after stimulation with LWMH (10 IU/mL). CONCLUSIONS Uterine cytokine profiles after LMWH administration are associated with pregnancy outcomes and LMWH may be beneficial for patients with three implantation failures who do not have coagulation disorders.
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Function of Follicular Cytokines: Roles Played during Maturation, Development and Implantation of Embryo. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2021; 57:medicina57111251. [PMID: 34833469 PMCID: PMC8625323 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57111251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
A balance within the immune system is necessary for the proper development of ovarian follicles. Numerous cytokines were detected in follicular fluid, the role of which in reproductive physiology seems crucial. They influence the development and maturation of the follicle, ovulation, and corpus luteum formation, as well as embryo implantation and maintenance of pregnancy. The analysis of follicular fluid requires its collection by puncturing of the ovary, which is usually executed in connection with various gynaecological procedures. When interpreting such test results, clinical indications for a given procedure and the method of patient preparation should be taken into account. This review revealed the results of currently available studies on the concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokines in follicular fluid in various forms of infertility. Additionally, it presented cytokines, whose concentration has a significant impact on the size of ovarian follicles, their number, the effectiveness of in vitro fertilisation, development of the embryo, and chances of correct implantation. Despite the many recent publications, the knowledge of follicular fluid immunology in the context of reproductive pathology is superficial and further research is required to extensively understand the roles of individual cytokines in reproductive pathology. In the future, this knowledge may enable patients’ individual qualifications to individual methods of infertility treatment, as well as the possible adjustment of the treatment regimen to the patient’s immune profile.
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Sfakianoudis K, Rapani A, Grigoriadis S, Pantou A, Maziotis E, Kokkini G, Tsirligkani C, Bolaris S, Nikolettos K, Chronopoulou M, Pantos K, Simopoulou M. The Role of Uterine Natural Killer Cells on Recurrent Miscarriage and Recurrent Implantation Failure: From Pathophysiology to Treatment. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9101425. [PMID: 34680540 PMCID: PMC8533591 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9101425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine natural killer (uNK) cells constitute a unique uterine leucocyte subpopulation facilitating implantation and maintaining pregnancy. Herein, we critically analyze current evidence regarding the role of uNK cells in the events entailed in recurrent implantation failure (RIF) and recurrent miscarriages (RM). Data suggest an association between RIF and RM with abnormally elevated uNK cells’ numbers, as well as with a defective biological activity leading to cytotoxicity. However, other studies do not concur on these associations. Robust data suggesting a definitive causative relationship between uNK cells and RIF and RM is missing. Considering the possibility of uNK cells involvement on RIF and RM pathophysiology, possible treatments including glucocorticoids, intralipids, and intravenous immunoglobulin administration have been proposed towards addressing uNK related RIF and RM. When considering clinical routine practice, this study indicated that solid evidence is required to report on efficiency and safety of these treatments as there are recommendations that clearly advise against their employment. In conclusion, defining a causative relationship between uNK and RIF–RM pathologies certainly merits investigation. Future studies should serve as a prerequisite prior to proposing the use of uNK as a biomarker or prior to targeting uNK cells for therapeutic purposes addressing RIF and RM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Sfakianoudis
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (A.P.); (M.C.); (K.P.)
| | - Anna Rapani
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
| | - Sokratis Grigoriadis
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
- Assisted Conception Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Agni Pantou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (A.P.); (M.C.); (K.P.)
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
| | - Evangelos Maziotis
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
- Assisted Conception Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Georgia Kokkini
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
| | - Chrysanthi Tsirligkani
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
| | - Stamatis Bolaris
- Assisted Conception Unit, General-Maternity District Hospital "Elena Venizelou", Elenas Venizelou Avenue, 11521 Athens, Greece;
| | - Konstantinos Nikolettos
- Assisted Reproduction Unit of Thrace “Embryokosmogenesis”, Apalos, 68132 Alexandroupoli, Greece;
| | - Margarita Chronopoulou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (A.P.); (M.C.); (K.P.)
| | - Konstantinos Pantos
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (A.P.); (M.C.); (K.P.)
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
- Assisted Conception Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-21-0746-2592
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Coomarasamy A, Dhillon-Smith RK, Papadopoulou A, Al-Memar M, Brewin J, Abrahams VM, Maheshwari A, Christiansen OB, Stephenson MD, Goddijn M, Oladapo OT, Wijeyaratne CN, Bick D, Shehata H, Small R, Bennett PR, Regan L, Rai R, Bourne T, Kaur R, Pickering O, Brosens JJ, Devall AJ, Gallos ID, Quenby S. Recurrent miscarriage: evidence to accelerate action. Lancet 2021; 397:1675-1682. [PMID: 33915096 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(21)00681-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Women who have had repeated miscarriages often have uncertainties about the cause, the likelihood of recurrence, the investigations they need, and the treatments that might help. Health-care policy makers and providers have uncertainties about the optimal ways to organise and provide care. For this Series paper, we have developed recommendations for practice from literature reviews, appraisal of guidelines, and a UK-wide consensus conference that was held in December, 2019. Caregivers should individualise care according to the clinical needs and preferences of women and their partners. We define a minimum set of investigations and treatments to be offered to couples who have had recurrent miscarriages, and urge health-care policy makers and providers to make them universally available. The essential investigations include measurements of lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin antibodies, thyroid function, and a transvaginal pelvic ultrasound scan. The key treatments to consider are first trimester progesterone administration, levothyroxine in women with subclinical hypothyroidism, and the combination of aspirin and heparin in women with antiphospholipid antibodies. Appropriate screening and care for mental health issues and future obstetric risks, particularly preterm birth, fetal growth restriction, and stillbirth, will need to be incorporated into the care pathway for couples with a history of recurrent miscarriage. We suggest health-care services structure care using a graded model in which women are offered online health-care advice and support, care in a nurse or midwifery-led clinic, and care in a medical consultant-led clinic, according to clinical needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arri Coomarasamy
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Rima K Dhillon-Smith
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Argyro Papadopoulou
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Maya Al-Memar
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jane Brewin
- Tommy's Charity, Laurence Pountney Hill, London, UK
| | - Vikki M Abrahams
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Ole B Christiansen
- Centre for Recurrent Pregnancy Loss of Western Denmark, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Mary D Stephenson
- University of Illinois Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Program, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Mariëtte Goddijn
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Olufemi T Oladapo
- UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction, Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, WHO, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Debra Bick
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, University of Warwick, Warwick, UK
| | - Hassan Shehata
- Epsom General Hospital, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, Epsom, UK
| | - Rachel Small
- Birmingham Heartlands Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Phillip R Bennett
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Lesley Regan
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Raj Rai
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Tom Bourne
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Rajinder Kaur
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Oonagh Pickering
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jan J Brosens
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Warwick, UK; Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
| | - Adam J Devall
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ioannis D Gallos
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Siobhan Quenby
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Warwick, UK; Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
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20
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Diagnosis and treatment of luteal phase deficiency: a committee opinion. Fertil Steril 2021; 115:1416-1423. [PMID: 33827766 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Luteal phase deficiency (LPD) is a clinical diagnosis associated with an abnormal luteal phase length of ≤10 days. Potential etiologies of LPD include inadequate progesterone duration, inadequate progesterone levels, or endometrial progesterone resistance. LPD has not only been described in association with medical conditions but also in fertile, normally menstruating women. Although progesterone is important for the process of implantation and early embryonic development, LPD has not been proven to be an independent entity causing infertility or recurrent pregnancy loss. Controversy exists regarding the multiple proposed measures for diagnosing LPD and, assuming it can be diagnosed accurately, whether treatment improves outcomes. This document replaces the document entitled "Current clinical irrelevance of luteal phase deficiency: a committee opinion," last published in 2015 (Fertil Steril 2015;103:e27-e32).
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21
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Santi D, Spaggiari G, Greco C, Lazzaretti C, Paradiso E, Casarini L, Potì F, Brigante G, Simoni M. The "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" of Endothelial Dysfunction Markers in Human Fertility. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052584. [PMID: 33806677 PMCID: PMC7961823 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Endothelial dysfunction is an early event in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and represents the first step in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. The evaluation of endothelial health is fundamental in clinical practice and several direct and indirect markers have been suggested so far to identify any alterations in endothelial homeostasis. Alongside the known endothelial role on vascular health, several pieces of evidence have demonstrated that proper endothelial functioning plays a key role in human fertility and reproduction. Therefore, this state-of-the-art review updates the endothelial health markers discriminating between those available for clinical practice or for research purposes and their application in human fertility. Moreover, new molecules potentially helpful to clarify the link between endothelial and reproductive health are evaluated herein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Santi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy; (C.G.); (C.L.); (E.P.); (L.C.); (G.B.); (M.S.)
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-05-9396-1816
| | - Giorgia Spaggiari
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy;
| | - Carla Greco
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy; (C.G.); (C.L.); (E.P.); (L.C.); (G.B.); (M.S.)
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy;
| | - Clara Lazzaretti
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy; (C.G.); (C.L.); (E.P.); (L.C.); (G.B.); (M.S.)
- International PhD School in Clinical and Experimental Medicine (CEM), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy
| | - Elia Paradiso
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy; (C.G.); (C.L.); (E.P.); (L.C.); (G.B.); (M.S.)
- International PhD School in Clinical and Experimental Medicine (CEM), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy
| | - Livio Casarini
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy; (C.G.); (C.L.); (E.P.); (L.C.); (G.B.); (M.S.)
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy
| | - Francesco Potì
- Department of Medicine and Surgery-Unit of Neurosciences, University of Parma, 43121 Parma, Italy;
| | - Giulia Brigante
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy; (C.G.); (C.L.); (E.P.); (L.C.); (G.B.); (M.S.)
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy;
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy; (C.G.); (C.L.); (E.P.); (L.C.); (G.B.); (M.S.)
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy;
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Modena, Italy
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22
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Association of metabolic and inflammatory markers with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS): an update. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2021; 303:631-643. [PMID: 33439300 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-020-05951-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most prevalent metabolic disorder in reproductive-age women. It is indeed a multifactorial condition evidenced by ovarian dysfunction, hyperandrogenaemia, infertility, hormonal imbalance and chronic anovulation. Experimental evidence infers that PCOS women are prone to cardiovascular problems and insulin resistance. PURPOSE To furnish the details about the association of inflammatory markers in PCOS. DESIGN An extensive literature search on PubMed, science direct and google scholar has been performed for articles about PCOS and inflammation in PCOS. A comprehensive analysis using original articles, reviews, systemic and meta-analysis was conducted for better understanding the relationship between inflammatory cytokines and PCOS. RESULTS The inflammatory markers perform a substantial part in managing the functions of the ovary. Any disturbances in their levels can lead to ovarian dysfunction. Inflammatory markers are associated with PCOS pathogenesis. The interplay between inflammatory cytokines in the PCOS ovary strongly implies that inflammation is one of the most potent risk factors of PCOS. CONCLUSION Inflammatory markers have a significant role in regulating the ovary. This manuscript highlights the significance of metabolic and inflammatory markers with PCOS. Since PCOS is always considered as a metabolic disorder, researchers can also consider focusing on the relationship between the inflammatory markers in PCOS to establish a new treatment or management of the disease and to improve women's health.
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23
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Lédée N, Petitbarat M, Prat-Ellenberg L, Dray G, Cassuto GN, Chevrier L, Kazhalawi A, Vezmar K, Chaouat G. The uterine immune profile: A method for individualizing the management of women who have failed to implant an embryo after IVF/ICSI. J Reprod Immunol 2020; 142:103207. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2020.103207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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24
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Nikolaeva M, Arefieva A, Babayan A, Chagovets V, Kitsilovskaya N, Starodubtseva N, Frankevich V, Kalinina E, Krechetova L, Sukhikh G. Immunoendocrine Markers of Stress in Seminal Plasma at IVF/ICSI Failure: a Preliminary Study. Reprod Sci 2020; 28:144-158. [PMID: 32638280 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00253-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
We have previously shown that high level of seminal interleukin (IL)-18 is positively associated with a greater risk of pregnancy failure in women exposed to their partners' seminal plasma (SP) during the in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycle. Since IL-18 and IL-1β considered to be the key immune markers of stress, here we ask whether their increase in SP may be due to the stress experienced by men engaged in the IVF programs. Therefore, we correlated seminal IL-18 with IL-1β and both cytokines with the seminal steroids, whose increase indicates the activation of neuroendocrine stress response systems. Retrospective analysis of stored seminal samples was performed. Based on previously identified cutoff level for content of IL-18 per ejaculate, samples with high IL-18 content from IVF failure group (n = 9), as well as samples with low IL-18 content from IVF success group (n = 7), were included in the study. Seminal cytokines were evaluated using FlowCytomix™ technology. A set of 16 biologically active steroids in SP was quantified by liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Concentrations and total amounts per ejaculate of cytokines and steroids were determined. A positive significant correlation was found between the levels of IL-18 and IL-1β. There was also a positive correlation between IL-18 or IL-1β and 17-α-hydroxypregnenolone, 17-α-hydroxyprogesterone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), DHEA sulfate (DHEAS), androstenedione, testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, progesterone, corticosterone, 11-deoxycorticosterone, and the ratio of DHEAS/cortisol. We suggested that stress-related overexpression of immune and hormonal factors in SP may be the key link between male stress and embryo implantation failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Nikolaeva
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, Russia, 117997.
| | - Alla Arefieva
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, Russia, 117997
| | - Alina Babayan
- Department of Assisted Technologies in Treatment of Infertility, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, Russia, 117997
| | - Vitaliy Chagovets
- Department of Systems Biology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, Russia, 117997
| | - Natalia Kitsilovskaya
- Department of Systems Biology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, Russia, 117997
| | - Natalia Starodubtseva
- Department of Systems Biology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, Russia, 117997.,Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Institutskiy per. 9, Dolgoprudny, Moscow, Russia, 141701
| | - Vladimir Frankevich
- Department of Systems Biology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, Russia, 117997
| | - Elena Kalinina
- Department of Assisted Technologies in Treatment of Infertility, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, Russia, 117997
| | - Lubov Krechetova
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, Russia, 117997
| | - Gennady Sukhikh
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Oparina str. 4, Moscow, Russia, 117997.,First Moscow State Medical University named after I.M. Sechenov, Trubetskaya str. 8-2, Moscow, Russia, 119991
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Zhou P, Wu H, Lin X, Wang S, Zhang S. The effect of intralipid on pregnancy outcomes in women with previous implantation failure in in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2020; 252:187-192. [PMID: 32622103 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2020.06.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Several recent studies have investigated the relationship between intravenous intralipid and in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) outcomes in women with previous implantation failure. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the effects of intravenous intralipid on pregnancy outcomes in women with previous implantation failure. Ovid MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, Embase and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched up to August 5th, 2019. Randomized controlled trials comparing intravenous intralipid with placebo or no treatment during IVF/ICSI cycles in women with at least one implantation failure were included. Results were presented as risk ratio (RR) with 95 % confidence intervals (CIs). Four studies with 544 participants were included. Live birth rate was statistically higher among the groups of women who received intravenous intralipid (RR 1.98, 95 % CI 1.39-2.80, quality of evidence: low). Intralipid infusion could significantly improve clinical pregnancy rate (RR 1.74, 95 % CI 1.27-2.40, quality of evidence: low). When excluding two studies only published as conference abstracts, there were no significant differences in terms of live birth (RR 1.78, 95 % CI 0.95-3.34, heterogeneity: I² = 25.5 %, quality of evidence: low, Fig. 4A) and clinical pregnancy (RR 1.66, 95 % CI 0.90-3.08, heterogeneity: I² = 47.7 %, quality of evidence: low, Fig. 4B). Adverse events were reported to be rare, but three congenital anomalies were observed in women receiving intravenous intralipid. Administering intravenous intralipid during IVF/ICSI cycles may improve live birth and clinical pregnancy in women with previous implantation failure, such benefit is not significant excluding studies with high risk of bias in the analysis, more studies are needed to evaluate its efficacy and safety especially congenital malformations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Zhou
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hanglin Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hangzhou Women's Hospital, No. 369 Kun Peng Road, Hangzhou 310008, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaona Lin
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shasha Wang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, China
| | - Songying Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, Zhejiang, China.
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26
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Sahin ME, Madendag IC, Sahin E, Madendag Y, Karakukcu C. The role of serum progesterone induced blocking factor on unexplained infertility. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2020; 252:15-18. [PMID: 32559600 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2020.05.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine whether the progesterone-induced blocking factor (PIBF) level in women with unexplained infertility differed from that in fertile women. STUDY DESIGN Volunteers between 18 and 35 years old were included in this cross-sectional study and were divided into two groups-the unexplained-infertility group and the control group. Demographic data on all the women were collected using a detailed questionnaire. The infertile participants and their male partners received complete infertility examinations according to the protocol. Blood samples were taken from all participants after the examinations during regular clinic visits. Serum PIBF levels were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS Of the 46 healthy participants in the study, 22 had unexplained infertility. Age, body mass index, ethnicity, education level, age at first menarche, and length of menstrual cycles, serum follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, estradiol, prolactin, thyroid stimulating hormone, and progesterone were similar between two groups. The mean right antral follicle count (AFC) was 6.6 ± 1.8 in the unexplained-infertility group and 6.5 ± 2.0 in the control group. The mean left AFC was 6.6 ± 2.0 in the unexplained-infertility group and 6.9 ± 1.5 in control group. The mean serum PIBF level was 6.92 ± 3.41 ng/mL in the unexplained-infertility group and 12.10 ± 10.47 ng/mL in the control group, which was a significant difference (p = 0.02). CONCLUSION The present study showed that serum PIBF levels were significantly lower in unexplained-infertility group than in the fertile control group.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ilknur Col Madendag
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kayseri City Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Erdem Sahin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erciyes University Medicine Faculty, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Yusuf Madendag
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erciyes University Medicine Faculty, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Cigdem Karakukcu
- Department of Biochemistry, Kayseri City Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey.
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27
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Anupa G, Poorasamy J, Bhat MA, Sharma JB, Sengupta J, Ghosh D. Endometrial stromal cell inflammatory phenotype during severe ovarian endometriosis as a cause of endometriosis-associated infertility. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 41:623-639. [PMID: 32792135 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Do endometrial stromal cells from primary infertile patients with severe ovarian endometriosis display differential secretory profiles of inflammation-associated cytokines during the implantation window that may cause infertility? DESIGN Forty-eight cytokines were measured in conditioned medium of isolated endometrial stromal cells obtained from primary infertile patients without endometriosis (control group, n = 12) or with stage IV ovarian endometriosis (ovarian endometriosis group, n = 14) using multiplex assays. Key cytokines showing differential secretory profiles were validated using Western immunoblotting. Cellular phenotypic validation was carried out in vitro by comparing proliferation and migration capacity between control (n = 6) and ovarian endometriosis (n = 7) groups. RESULTS CCL3, CCL4, CCL5, CXCL10, FGF2, IFNG, IL1RN, IL5, TNFA, and VEGF could be detected only in the conditioned media of stromal cells obtained from the ovarian endometriosis group. Among other cytokines detected in the conditioned media of both groups, CCL2 (P = 0.0018), CSF3 (P = 0.0017), IL1B (P = 0.0066), IL4 (P = 0.036), IL6 (P = 0.0039) and IL13 (P = 0.036) were found to be higher, whereas the concentration of IL18 was lower (P = 0.023) in the ovarian endometriosis group. Concentrations of CCL2, IL1B, IL4 and IL13 in conditioned medium reflected significant diagnostic performance for predicting ovarian endometriosis. Cellular phenotypic validation in vitro revealed an enhanced proliferative phenotype (P = 0.046) with no change in cell migratory capacity of endometrial stromal cells from the ovarian endometriosis group. CONCLUSIONS Endometrial stromal cells derived from severe ovarian endometriosis samples displayed a hyperinflammatory and hyperproliferative bias in the endometrial stroma during the 'window of implantation' putatively causing loss of fecundability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geethadevi Anupa
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, Delhi, 110029, India; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Jeevitha Poorasamy
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Muzaffer A Bhat
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Jai Bhagwan Sharma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Jayasree Sengupta
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Debabrata Ghosh
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, Delhi, 110029, India.
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28
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Meyer N, Zenclussen AC. Immune Cells in the Uterine Remodeling: Are They the Target of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals? Front Immunol 2020; 11:246. [PMID: 32140155 PMCID: PMC7043066 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Sufficient uterine remodeling is essential for fetal survival and development. Pathologies related to poor remodeling have a negative impact on maternal and fetal health even years after birth. Research of the last decades yielded excellent studies demonstrating the key role of immune cells in the remodeling processes. This review summarizes the current knowledge about the relevance of immune cells for uterine remodeling during pregnancy and further discusses immunomodulatory effects of man-made endocrine disrupting chemicals on immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Meyer
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Ana Claudia Zenclussen
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
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29
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de Miguel-Gómez L, Ferrero H, López-Martínez S, Campo H, López-Pérez N, Faus A, Hervás D, Santamaría X, Pellicer A, Cervelló I. Stem cell paracrine actions in tissue regeneration and potential therapeutic effect in human endometrium: a retrospective study. BJOG 2020; 127:551-560. [PMID: 31876085 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.16078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Determining genetic and paracrine mechanisms behind endometrial regeneration in Asherman's syndrome and endometrial atrophy (AS/EA) patients after autologous CD133+ bone marrow-derived stem cell (CD133+ BMDSC) transplantation. DESIGN Retrospective study using human endometrial biopsies and mouse models. SETTING Fundación-IVI, IIS-La Fe, Valencia, Spain. SAMPLES Endometrial biopsies collected before and after CD133+ BMDSC therapy, from eight women with AS/EA (NCT02144987) from the uterus of five mice with only left horns receiving CD133+ BMDSC therapy. METHODS In human samples, haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, RNA arrays, PCR validation, and neutrophil elastase (NE) immunohistochemistry (IHQ). In mouse samples, PCR validation and protein immunoarrays. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES H&E microscopic evaluation, RNA expression levels, PCR, and growth/angiogenic factors quantification, NE IHQ signal. RESULTS Treatment improved endometrial morphology and thickness for all patients. In human samples, Jun, Serpine1, and Il4 were up-regulated whereas Ccnd1 and Cxcl8 were down-regulated after treatment. The significant decrease of NE signal corroborated Cxcl8 expression. Animal model analysis confirmed human results and revealed a higher expression of pro-angiogenic cytokines (IL18, HGF, MCP-1, MIP2) in treated uterine horns. CONCLUSIONS CD133+ BMDSC seems to activate several factors through a paracrine mechanism to help tissue regeneration, modifying endometrial behaviour through an immunomodulatory milieu that precedes proliferation and angiogenic processes. Insight into these processes could bring us one step closer to a non-invasive treatment for AS/EA patients. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT CD133+ BMDSC therapy regenerates endometrium, modifying the immunological milieu that precedes proliferation and angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- L de Miguel-Gómez
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - H Ferrero
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - S López-Martínez
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - H Campo
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - N López-Pérez
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - A Faus
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - D Hervás
- Data Science, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - X Santamaría
- Igenomix Academy, Valencia, Spain.,IVIRMA, Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Pellicer
- IVIRMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain.,Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - I Cervelló
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
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30
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Comparison of T and NK lymphocyte subsets between human endometrial tissue and peripheral blood. Cent Eur J Immunol 2019; 44:316-321. [PMID: 31871420 PMCID: PMC6925561 DOI: 10.5114/ceji.2019.89610] [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: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune profiles in endometrium may be changed in patients with IVF failure and its possible correlations with immune parameters in peripheral blood are important for the diagnostic approach. Such correlations in healthy women are unknown and have been studied in the present research. The expression of CD56, CD158a, HLA DR, CD69 in T lymphocytes, CD4 T lymphocytes, CD8+ T lymphocytes and NK cells were studied by flow-cytometry in endometrium and peripheral blood in healthy 24 donors of oocytes aged 25-32 years. Levels of T lymphocyte and T helper cells were lower in endometrium and no differences in CD8 T lymphocytes were registered between endometrium and peripheral blood. The expression of HLA DR and especially CD69 was higher in CD3, CD4, CD8 T cells in endometrium in comparison with peripheral blood. The endometrium lymphocyte population was enriched by NK cells that were generally CD56++ with a higher expression of HLA DR and almost in total were CD69 positive. Strong positive correlations of CD8 expression in NK cells (r = 0.6478, p < 0.001) and HLA DR expression in CD8 T cells (r = 0.6107, p < 0.01) between peripheral blood and endometrium were registered in fertile women. The endometrial CD56 expression in CD8+ T cells negatively correlated with endometrial CD8 expression in NK cells (r = -0.5252, p < 0.01) which possibly reflected a suppressive and regulating mechanism in the endometrium. CD8+ NK cells and HLA DR+ CD8 T cells in endometrium were related to the same subsets in peripheral blood.
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Lu X, Cui J, Cui L, Luo Q, Cao Q, Yuan W, Zhang H. The effects of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cell transplantation on endometrial receptivity are associated with Th1/Th2 balance change and uNK cell expression of uterine in autoimmune premature ovarian failure mice. Stem Cell Res Ther 2019; 10:214. [PMID: 31331391 PMCID: PMC6647296 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-019-1313-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background To explore the mechanism of human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cell (hUMSC) transplantation to improve ovarian function and the endometrial receptivity in autoimmune premature ovarian failure (POF) mice. Methods The POF model was established in mice treated with zona pellucida 3 polypeptide fragment (zona pellucida 3, ZP3). The hUMSCs were transplanted into the POF mice through tail vein injection. Following the transplantation, the serum hormone levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), estrogen (E2), progesterone (P), γ-interferon (IFN-γ), interleukin-2 (IL-2), and interleukin-4 (IL-4) were evaluated by ELISA analysis. Morphological changes of ovarian and uterus tissues were examined by HE staining and immunohistochemistry. The expression of Th1/Th2 cytokines of T cells in spleen and CD56+CD16− cells (uterine natural killer cells, uNK cells) in uterine was measured by flow cytometry (FCM) and immunohistochemistry. The expression of HOXA10 in uterine endometrium was examined by immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR analysis. The pinopodes of epithelial cells in uterine endometrium were examined by scanning electron microscopy. Results Following hUMSC transplantation, the serum levels of E2, P, and IL-4 were increased but FSH, IFN-γ, and IL-2 levels were decreased in POF mice. Also, the transplantation of hUMSCs caused an increase in total number of healthy follicles and decrease of atresia follicles. The expression of HOXA10 gene was significantly increased but the CD56+CD16− uNK cells decreased in the endometrium of uterine. The ratio of Th1/Th2 cytokines was also significantly decreased. Conclusion The data suggest that the recovery of ovarian function and endometrial receptivity in POF mice was regulated by the balance of Th1/Th2 cytokines and expression of uNK cells in the endometrium following hUMSC transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueyan Lu
- College of Basic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, China.,College of Basic Medicine & Institute of Reproductive Diseases, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, China
| | - Jingjing Cui
- The Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, 256600, Shandong, China
| | - Linlu Cui
- College of Basic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, China.,College of Basic Medicine & Institute of Reproductive Diseases, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, China
| | - Qianqian Luo
- College of Basic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, China.,College of Basic Medicine & Institute of Reproductive Diseases, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, China
| | - Qizhi Cao
- College of Basic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, China
| | - Wendan Yuan
- College of Basic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, China.
| | - Hongqin Zhang
- College of Basic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, China. .,College of Basic Medicine & Institute of Reproductive Diseases, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, Shandong, China.
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The role of immunotherapy in in vitro fertilization and recurrent pregnancy loss: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Fertil Steril 2019; 110:1089-1100. [PMID: 30396553 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Revised: 06/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the current evidence on the role of immunotherapy in IVF and in the management of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. SETTING A literature search was performed using MEDLINE, PUBMED, CINAHL, and EMBASE until May 2017. Only randomized controlled trials were included, and a meta-analysis was carried out where appropriate. PATIENT(S) Women undergoing IVF treatment with or without a history of recurrent implantation failure and women with idiopathic RPL. INTERVENTION(S) Assessment of the efficacy of commonly used immunomodulators such as IV use of [1] immunoglobulin, [2] lymphocyte immunotherapy and [3] intralipid; intrauterine infusion of [4] granulocyte colony-stimulating factor and [5] peripheral blood mononuclear cells; subcutaneous administration of [6] TNF-alpha inhibitors, [7] leukaemia inhibitory factor; and oral administration of [8] glucocorticoids. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The primary outcomes were live birth rate and miscarriage rate; secondary outcome was clinical pregnancy rate. RESULT(S) Of the 7,226 publications identified, 53 were selected during the initial screening; 30 satisfied the selection criteria and were included in this review. CONCLUSION(S) The available medical literature shows controversial results about the role of immunotherapy when used for improving reproductive outcomes. This study did not show a role for immunotherapy in improving the live birth rate in women undergoing IVF treatment or in the prevention of idiopathic RPL. Currently, immunotherapy should be used in the context of research and should not be used in routine clinical practice to improve reproductive outcomes.
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The role of immunotherapy in in vitro fertilization: a guideline. Fertil Steril 2019; 110:387-400. [PMID: 30098685 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Adjuvant immunotherapy treatments in in vitro fertilization (IVF) aim to improve the outcome of assisted reproductive technology (ART) in both the general ART population as well as subgroups such as patients with recurrent miscarriage or implantation failure. The purpose of this guideline is to evaluate the role of immunomodulating therapy in ART. Unfortunately, many of the evaluated therapies lack robust evidence from well-designed adequately powered randomized controlled trials to support their use. Immunotherapies reviewed in the present document are either not associated with improved live-birth outcome in IVF or have been insufficiently studied to make definitive recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
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- American Society for Reproductive Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama
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Zanotta N, Monasta L, Skerk K, Luppi S, Martinelli M, Ricci G, Comar M. Cervico-vaginal secretion cytokine profile: A non-invasive approach to study the endometrial receptivity in IVF cycles. Am J Reprod Immunol 2018; 81:e13064. [PMID: 30475413 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Cytokines have a significant role in the process of embryo implantation, trophoblast growth, and differentiation by modulating the immune and endocrine system. The aim of this study was to investigate the profile of a large set of cytokines in the cervico-vaginal washing of women undergoing IVF, to explore the association of these proteins with a good receptive endometrium. METHOD OF STUDY A cohort of 155 women scheduled for IVF cycle was recruited. All patients were asymptomatic for genitourinary infections and had been screened for chlamydia, mycoplasma, and other bacterial infections. All IVF subjects were treated according to standard clinical and laboratory protocols. A panel of 48 immune factors was analyzed on cervico-vaginal washing, using magnetic bead-based multiplex immunoassays (Bio-Plex, BIO-RAD Laboratories, Milano, Italy). RESULTS A total of 99 patients reached embryo transfer, of which 31 had a clinical pregnancy. A pattern of four pro-inflammatory immune molecules, IL-12p40, IFN-a, MIF, and MCP3 (P < 0.001), was found significantly up-regulated in the cervico-vaginal fluid of women with clinical pregnancy. A significantly increased expression of IL-9, Groα , and SDF-1α (P < 0.05) was observed in the presence of endometriosis, while high levels of IL-13 and L-15 were associated with ovulatory infertility factor (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION In this pilot study, we demonstrated that the expression of specific cytokines in the cervico-vaginal washing on the day of oocyte retrieval might have a positive correlation with the potential clinical pregnancy. Therefore, cervico-vaginal secretion cytokine profiling might be a new, non-invasive approach to study the endometrial receptivity in IVF management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nunzia Zanotta
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Monasta
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
| | - Kristina Skerk
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
| | - Stefania Luppi
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
| | - Monica Martinelli
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ricci
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy.,Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Manola Comar
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy.,Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
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Nikolaeva M, Babayan A, Stepanova E, Arefieva A, Dontsova T, Smolnikova V, Kalinina E, Krechetova L, Pavlovich S, Sukhikh G. The Link Between Seminal Cytokine Interleukin 18, Female Circulating Regulatory T Cells, and IVF/ICSI Success. Reprod Sci 2018; 26:1034-1044. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719118804404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Seminal plasma (SP) is thought to be a crucial factor which affects the expansion of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in female reproductive tract during embryo implantation. We propose that seminal transforming growth factor (TGF) β1 is responsible for local accumulation of circulating Tregs, which manifests as changes in Treg frequency in peripheral blood, whereas seminal interleukin (IL) 18 interferes with TGF-β1-dependent cellular reactions. The purpose of the present study is to determine whether the frequency of circulating Tregs is associated with the levels of seminal cytokines and pregnancy establishment in women exposed to partner’s SP during in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycle. Twenty-nine women were exposed to SP via timed intercourse before the day of ovum pickup (day-OPU) and also subjected to intravaginal SP application just after OPU. Measurements of seminal TGF-β1 and IL-18 were made by FlowCytomix technology. The percentage of CD4+CD25+CD127low+/ – Tregs among total circulating CD4+ T cells was determined by flow cytometry and the difference between Treg values on the day of embryo transfer and day-OPU was calculated. The percentage of Tregs on the day-OPU, identified as a predictive factor of clinical pregnancy after IVF/ICSI, showed a positive correlation with IL-18 concentration and content of this cytokine per ejaculate ( P < .001 and P < .004, respectively) and negative correlation with the TGF-β1/IL-18 ratio ( P < .014).These findings indicate that the adverse effect of seminal IL-18 excess on implantation may be realized by the prevention of postcoital TGF-β1-related migration of circulating Tregs, which clearly manifests as elevated level of Treg frequency in peripheral blood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Nikolaeva
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alina Babayan
- Department of Assisted Technologies in Treatment of Infertility, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena Stepanova
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alla Arefieva
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Tatiana Dontsova
- Department of Assisted Technologies in Treatment of Infertility, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Veronika Smolnikova
- Department of Assisted Technologies in Treatment of Infertility, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena Kalinina
- Department of Assisted Technologies in Treatment of Infertility, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Lubov Krechetova
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Stanislav Pavlovich
- Department of Assisted Technologies in Treatment of Infertility, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Gennady Sukhikh
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology of Ministry of Healthcare of Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
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Jin XY, Zhao LJ, Luo DH, Liu L, Dai YD, Hu XX, Wang YY, Lin X, Hong F, Li TC, Zhang SY. Pinopode score around the time of implantation is predictive of successful implantation following frozen embryo transfer in hormone replacement cycles. Hum Reprod 2018; 32:2394-2403. [PMID: 29040606 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is pinopode measurement of any prognostic value? SUMMARY ANSWER Pinopode expression was significantly associated with the occurrence of pregnancy after frozen embryo transfer. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Pinopodes are expressed in the endometrium during the implantation period. Pinopode measurement has been proposed as a marker of endometrial receptivity. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A prospective cohort study was conducted at the Center of Reproductive Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, between 2014 and 2016, recruiting 172 women with infertility and undergoing frozen embryo transfer following IVF treatment. Among 172 participants, 46 women took part in the first study to quantify the daily changing pattern of pinopodes 3-7 days after the initiation of progesterone therapy in the hormone replacement cycles and the remaining 126 women with infertility participated in a study to examine the relationship between pinopode count and pregnancy outcome following frozen embryo transfer in hormone replacement cycles. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The mean age of participants was 29 years old. All participants received an artificial hormone replacement protocol capable of supporting successful implantation. Endometrial biopsies from 46 women were obtained 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 days after the initiation of progesterone therapy (P + 3, n = 6; P + 4, n = 6; P + 5, n = 11; P + 6, n = 13; P + 7, n = 10, respectively). Another 126 endometrial biopsies were obtained precisely 6 days after the initiation of progesterone. Scanning electron microscopy was used to capture the pinopode images, followed by use of the image J program to quantify the count and subtype of the pinopodes. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We found that at least 60 microscopic fields were necessary to achieve a reproducible result. An intra-observer variability study showed good agreement between two measurements regarding the developing pinopode (DP) subtype (r = 0.95) and the fully developed pinopode (FDP) subtype (r = 0.86) but not for the regressing (RP) pinopode subtype (r = 0.39). The proportion of DP/total pinopodes (TP) declined rapidly form day P + 4 to a minimum on day P + 6. The percentage of FDP/TP increased rapidly from day P + 4 to reach a peak on day P + 6. On the other hand, the percentage of RP/TP reached a peak on day P + 7. Participants who conceived had a significantly (P = 0.011) higher percentage of FDP/TP on day P + 6 and significantly (P = 0.005) lower percentage of DP/TP on the same day compared with participants who did not become pregnant. Using a scoring system incorporating the percentages of DP and FDP, it was found that the pregnancy rate and the embryo implantation rate of women with a high pinopode score (82.3%; 63.0%) was significantly (P = 0.001; P = 0.046) higher than that of women with a low pinopode score (53.3%; 46.7%), respectively. There remains a possibility that the observations could have arisen due to chance. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study examined pinopode count and subtype in the HRT cycles, and it is uncertain whether the same observations apply to in natural cycles. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FNDINGS Pinopodes have been questioned as a potential marker of endometrial receptivity for many years. Our results suggested that pinopode measurement may be of value in predicting pregnancy. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study was supported by the grants from the general project of medicine and health in Zhejiang Province of China (2015KYA142; 2018KY106), the Key Research and Development Program of Zhejiang Province (2017C03022) and the National Natural Science Foundation of China (81701514).The funders had no role in the study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish or preparation of the manuscript. We have no competing interests to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN26300668.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Y Jin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, 3# Qingchun East Road, Hangzhou 310016, PR China
| | - L J Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, 3# Qingchun East Road, Hangzhou 310016, PR China
| | - D H Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, 3# Qingchun East Road, Hangzhou 310016, PR China
| | - L Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, 3# Qingchun East Road, Hangzhou 310016, PR China
| | - Y D Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, 3# Qingchun East Road, Hangzhou 310016, PR China
| | - X X Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, 3# Qingchun East Road, Hangzhou 310016, PR China
| | - Y Y Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, 3# Qingchun East Road, Hangzhou 310016, PR China
| | - X Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, 3# Qingchun East Road, Hangzhou 310016, PR China
| | - F Hong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, 3# Qingchun East Road, Hangzhou 310016, PR China
| | - T C Li
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - S Y Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, 3# Qingchun East Road, Hangzhou 310016, PR China
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Özmen B, Pabuçcu EG, Şükür YE, Ulubaşoğlu H, Ateş C, Sönmezer M, Berker B, Atabekoğlu CS. A retrospective comparative study of prednisolone use in antagonist co-treated assisted reproductive technology cycles for patients with good prognosis. Turk J Obstet Gynecol 2018; 15:147-151. [PMID: 30202623 PMCID: PMC6127480 DOI: 10.4274/tjod.12244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the impact of peri-implantation prednisolone use and its duration in antagonist co-treated assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles of patients with good prognosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Infertile patients treated with gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist protocol between January 2010 and June 2013 were included. The patients in group A (n=196) received no prednisolone. The patients in groups B (n=397) and C (n=371) received 5 mg oral prednisolone daily, for 4 and 12 days following embryo transfer, respectively. The main outcome parameter was live birth rate. RESULTS The ages of the groups were 30.1±4.6, 31.5±4.5, and 30.9±4.7 years, respectively (p=0.163). There was no statistically significant difference between the groups regarding cycle characteristics. Implantation rates were 20.7%, 24.6%, and 23.8%, respectively (p=0.163). Miscarriage rates were 1.5%, 3.5%, and 3.2%, respectively (p=0.859). Live birth rates were 28.7%, 29.3%, and 32.8%, respectively (p=0.482). CONCLUSION Empiric prednisolone administration during the peri-implantation period does not seem to have beneficial effects in ART cycles of patients with good prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Batuhan Özmen
- Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Emre Göksan Pabuçcu
- Ufuk University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Yavuz Emre Şükür
- Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Hasan Ulubaşoğlu
- Ondokuz Mayıs University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Can Ateş
- Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biostatistics, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Murat Sönmezer
- Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Bülent Berker
- Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Cem Somer Atabekoğlu
- Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara, Turkey
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Kasap B, Özel Türkçü Ü, Akbaba E, Sarıyıldız B, Küçük M, Turhan NÖ, Öner G, Özcan A. The predictive role of sTWEAK levels in pregnant women with first-trimester vaginal bleeding. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2017; 31:1715-1719. [DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2017.1326097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Burcu Kasap
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla, Turkey
| | - Ümmühani Özel Türkçü
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla, Turkey
| | - Eren Akbaba
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla, Turkey
| | - Behiye Sarıyıldız
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla, Turkey
| | - Mert Küçük
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla, Turkey
- Department of Medical Education and Bioinformatics, School of Medicine, Mugla Sitki Kocman University, Mugla, Turkey
| | - Nilgün Öztürk Turhan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla, Turkey
| | - Gökalp Öner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla, Turkey
| | - Aykut Özcan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, İzmir Tepecik Training and Research Hospital, İzmir, Turkey
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Yin B, Zeng Y, Wu T, Yu S, Xu J, Liu S, Diao L, Zhao Z, Liang D, Li Y. Functional properties of peripheral CD8+ T cells in patients with repeated implantation failure. Am J Reprod Immunol 2017; 78. [PMID: 28508475 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Biao Yin
- The State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics of China; Central South University; Changsha China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation; Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics; Fertility Center; Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital; Shenzhen China
| | - Yong Zeng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation; Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics; Fertility Center; Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital; Shenzhen China
| | - Tonghua Wu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation; Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics; Fertility Center; Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital; Shenzhen China
| | - Shuyi Yu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation; Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics; Fertility Center; Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital; Shenzhen China
| | - Jian Xu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation; Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics; Fertility Center; Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital; Shenzhen China
| | - Su Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation; Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics; Fertility Center; Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital; Shenzhen China
| | - Lianghui Diao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation; Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics; Fertility Center; Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital; Shenzhen China
| | - Zhenfu Zhao
- School of Medicine; Shenzhen University; Shenzhen Guangdong China
| | - Desheng Liang
- The State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics of China; Central South University; Changsha China
| | - Yuye Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology of Peri-implantation; Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproduction and Genetics; Fertility Center; Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital; Shenzhen China
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Chen X, Man GCW, Liu Y, Wu F, Huang J, Li TC, Wang CC. Physiological and pathological angiogenesis in endometrium at the time of embryo implantation. Am J Reprod Immunol 2017; 78. [PMID: 28466568 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo establishes contact with the endometrium during implantation. Proper endometrial vascular development and maintenance at the time of embryo implantation is crucial for successful pregnancy. Vascular development at the maternal-embryo interface can be regulated by various cell types, of which uterine natural killer (uNK) cells play an important role. Abnormal angiogenesis and uNK cell number/function may lead to reproductive failure, particularly in women with recurrent miscarriage (RM) and women with recurrent implantation failure (RIF) after IVF-ET treatment, which are the important clinical hurdles in reproductive medicine to overcome. In this review, we aim to discuss the current knowledge of physiological angiogenic processes and the pathological angiogenesis at the time of implantation, as well as the possible mechanism and potential treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Gene Chi Wai Man
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong.,Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Yingyu Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Fangrong Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Jin Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Tin Chiu Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Chi Chiu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong.,Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Science, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong.,School of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
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41
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Lédée N, Prat-Ellenberg L, Chevrier L, Balet R, Simon C, Lenoble C, Irani EE, Bouret D, Cassuto G, Vitoux D, Vezmar K, Bensussan A, Chaouat G, Petitbarat M. Uterine immune profiling for increasing live birth rate: A one-to-one matched cohort study. J Reprod Immunol 2017; 119:23-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2016.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Revised: 11/16/2016] [Accepted: 11/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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Aksu S, Çalışkan E, Cakiroglu Y. Evaluation of endometrial natural killer cell expression of CD4, CD103, and CD16 cells in women with unexplained infertility. J Reprod Immunol 2016; 117:70-5. [PMID: 27505845 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2016.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2016] [Revised: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 07/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether natural killer cell (NK) concentrations in the mid-secretory endometrial tissue of women with unexplained infertility differ from those in the mid-secretory endometrial tissue of fertile women. METHODS This study was conducted with 22 patients with unexplained infertility caused by unsuccessful ovulation induced with gonadotrophins and 12 healthy fertile women, who formed a control group. Mid-secretory endometrial tissue samples were obtained with a Pipelle catheter, and the endometrial NK cell phenotypes were determined by flow cytometry. RESULTS The median number of CD4+ cells in the endometrium was significantly lower in women with unexplained infertility compared with in the fertile controls (3.31 vs. 5.81; p=0.02). The CD4(+)/CD8(+) cell ratio in the unexplained-infertility group was significantly lower than that in the control group (0.42 vs. 0.76, p=0.01). The median number of CD103(+) cells in the endometrium of the infertile group was significantly lower than that in the endometrium of the control group (4.40 vs. 6.73, p=0.02). The median number of CD16(+) cells was significantly higher in infertile women than in control women (0.12 vs. 0.001, p=0.01). CONCLUSIONS Significant reductions in the numbers of CD4(+) and CD103(+) cells as well as in the CD4(+)/CD8(+) ratio but an increased number of CD16(+) cells in the endometrium of infertile women suggest that disordered NK cell activity may be a contributor to the etiology of unexplained infertility.
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Nikolaeva MA, Babayan AA, Stepanova EO, Smolnikova VY, Kalinina EA, Fernández N, Krechetova LV, Vanko LV, Sukhikh GT. The relationship of seminal transforming growth factor-β1 and interleukin-18 with reproductive success in women exposed to seminal plasma during IVF/ICSI treatment. J Reprod Immunol 2016; 117:45-51. [PMID: 27423966 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2016.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Revised: 03/04/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
It has been proposed that the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 present in seminal plasma (SP) triggers a female immune response favorable for implantation. We hypothesize that seminal interleukin (IL)-18, a cytokine that can potentially cause implantation failure, interferes with the beneficial effect of TGF-β1. This study aims to determine whether the levels of seminal TGF-β1 and IL-18 are associated with reproductive outcomes in patients exposed to SP during in vitro fertilization (IVF) or IVF with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). A prospective study, which included 71 couples undergoing IVF/ICSI was carried out. Female patients were exposed to their partners' SP via timed intercourse before the day of ovum pick-up (OPU) and also subjected to intravaginal SP application just after OPU. Quantitative measurements of total TGF-β1 (active plus latent) as well as IL-18 were determined by FlowCytomix™ technology in the SP to be used for intravaginal applications. Comparison of SP cytokine profiles between pregnant and non-pregnant groups revealed that pregnancy was correlated with a lower concentration of IL-18 (P=0.018) and lower content per ejaculate for both of IL-18 (P=0.0003) and TGF-β1 (P=0.047). The ratio of TGF-β1-to-IL-18 concentration was significantly higher in the pregnant than in the non-pregnant group (P=0.026). This study supports the notion that two key cytokines TGF-β1 and IL-18, both present in SP are associated with reproductive outcomes in female patients exposed to SP during IVF/ICSI treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina A Nikolaeva
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, The Federal State Budget Institution "Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology" of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Oparina Str. 4, 117997 Moscow, Russia.
| | - Alina A Babayan
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, The Federal State Budget Institution "Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology" of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Oparina Str. 4, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena O Stepanova
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, The Federal State Budget Institution "Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology" of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Oparina Str. 4, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Veronika Y Smolnikova
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, The Federal State Budget Institution "Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology" of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Oparina Str. 4, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Elena A Kalinina
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, The Federal State Budget Institution "Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology" of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Oparina Str. 4, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Nelson Fernández
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, C04 3SQ England, UK
| | - Lubov V Krechetova
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, The Federal State Budget Institution "Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology" of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Oparina Str. 4, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Ludmila V Vanko
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, The Federal State Budget Institution "Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology" of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Oparina Str. 4, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Gennady T Sukhikh
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, The Federal State Budget Institution "Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology" of the Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, Oparina Str. 4, 117997 Moscow, Russia
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Arefi S, Hoseini A, Farifteh F, Zeraati H. Modified natural cycle frozen-thawed embryo transfer in patients with repeated implantation failure: An observational study. Int J Reprod Biomed 2016. [DOI: 10.29252/ijrm.14.7.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
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Lédée N, Petitbarat M, Chevrier L, Vitoux D, Vezmar K, Rahmati M, Dubanchet S, Gahéry H, Bensussan A, Chaouat G. The Uterine Immune Profile May Help Women With Repeated Unexplained Embryo Implantation Failure After In Vitro Fertilization. Am J Reprod Immunol 2016; 75:388-401. [PMID: 26777262 PMCID: PMC4849202 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2015] [Accepted: 12/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
LABELED PROBLEM Embryo implantation remains the main limiting factor in assisted reproductive medicine (20% success rate). METHODS OF STUDY An endometrial immune profiling was performed among 394 women with the previous history of repeated embryo implantation failures (RIF). The endometrial immune profile documented the ratio of IL-15/Fn-14 mRNA as a biomarker of uNK cell activation/maturation (together with the uNK cell count) and the IL-18/TWEAK mRNA ratio as a biomarker of both angiogenesis and the Th1/Th2 balance. According to their profile, we recommended personalized care to counteract the documented dysregulation and assessed its effects by the live birth rate (LBR) for the next embryo transfer. RESULTS Endometrial immune profiles appeared to be dysregulated in 81.7% of the RIF patients compared to control. Overactivation was diagnosed in 56.6% and low activation in 25%. The LBR among these dysregulated/treated patients at the first subsequent embryo transfer was 39.8%. CONCLUSION Endometrial immune profiling may improve our understanding of RIF and subsequent LBR if treated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Lédée
- MatriceLAB Innove SARLSaint‐Louis HospitalParisFrance
- Research CenterInstitut National de Santé et de Recherche MédicaleINSERM UMR‐976Saint‐Louis HospitalParisFrance
- Paris Diderot UniversityParisFrance
| | | | | | - Dominique Vitoux
- Plateforme de Diagnostic Biologique Automatisé AP‐HPSaint‐Louis HospitalParisFrance
| | - Katia Vezmar
- MatriceLAB Innove SARLSaint‐Louis HospitalParisFrance
| | - Mona Rahmati
- Research CenterInstitut National de Santé et de Recherche MédicaleINSERM UMR‐976Saint‐Louis HospitalParisFrance
- Paris Diderot UniversityParisFrance
| | - Sylvie Dubanchet
- Research CenterInstitut National de Santé et de Recherche MédicaleINSERM UMR‐976Saint‐Louis HospitalParisFrance
- Paris Diderot UniversityParisFrance
| | - Hanne Gahéry
- Research CenterInstitut National de Santé et de Recherche MédicaleINSERM UMR‐976Saint‐Louis HospitalParisFrance
- Paris Diderot UniversityParisFrance
| | - Armand Bensussan
- Research CenterInstitut National de Santé et de Recherche MédicaleINSERM UMR‐976Saint‐Louis HospitalParisFrance
- Paris Diderot UniversityParisFrance
| | - Gerard Chaouat
- Research CenterInstitut National de Santé et de Recherche MédicaleINSERM UMR‐976Saint‐Louis HospitalParisFrance
- Paris Diderot UniversityParisFrance
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Yang X, Huang R, Wang YF, Liang XY. Pituitary suppression before frozen embryo transfer is beneficial for patients suffering from idiopathic repeated implantation failure. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 36:127-131. [DOI: 10.1007/s11596-016-1554-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2015] [Revised: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Comba C, Bastu E, Dural O, Yasa C, Keskin G, Ozsurmeli M, Buyru F, Serdaroglu H. Role of inflammatory mediators in patients with recurrent pregnancy loss. Fertil Steril 2015; 104:1467-74.e1. [PMID: 26368793 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2015] [Revised: 07/31/2015] [Accepted: 08/08/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine interleukin-12 (IL-12), IL-18, IFN-γ, intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), and migration inhibitory factor (MIF) levels in precisely-timed blood and endometrial tissue samples from women with idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). DESIGN Case-control study. SETTING University hospital. PATIENT(S) Twenty-one women with RPL and 20 women with proven fertility (controls). INTERVENTION(S) Primary endometrial cells and blood samples during the midsecretory phase (days 19-23). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Detection of IL-12, IL-18, IFN-γ, ICAM-1, LIF, and MIF via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in both blood and endometrial tissue samples. RESULT(S) The blood and tissue levels of IL-12, IL-18, and IFN-γ were statistically significantly higher, and the blood and tissue levels of LIF and MIF were statistically significantly lower in patients with RPL. Only the level of tissue ICAM-1 was higher in patients with RPL. There was a strong correlation between blood and tissue level measurements of IL-12, IL-18, LIF, and MIF. CONCLUSION(S) Our findings support the hypothesis that inflammatory processes may contribute to pregnancy loss, possibly through their role in implantation. We found that blood and tissue levels of IL-18, LIF, and MIF, and tissue levels of IL-12, IFN-γ, and ICAM-1 have statistically significant prognostic relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cihan Comba
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ercan Bastu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Ozlem Dural
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Cenk Yasa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gulsah Keskin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Ozsurmeli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Faruk Buyru
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hasan Serdaroglu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
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Current clinical irrelevance of luteal phase deficiency: a committee opinion. Fertil Steril 2015; 103:e27-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.12.128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2014] [Accepted: 12/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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49
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Favorable immune phenotype predicts successful implantation and pregnancy. Immunol Lett 2014; 162:217-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2014.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2014] [Revised: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 10/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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50
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Liu B, Mariee N, Laird S, Smith J, Li J, Li T. The prognostic value of uNK cell count and histological dating in the mid-luteal phase of women with reproductive failure. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2014; 181:171-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2014.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2013] [Revised: 06/16/2014] [Accepted: 07/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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