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Piselli A, Yano JC, Gomez-Lobo V. Assessing Attitudes and Understanding After Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation: A Follow-Up Telephone Interview Survey. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2024; 13:622-628. [PMID: 38597904 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2023.0148] [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] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Assessing patient and guardian experiences regarding their history of ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) years after initial procedure. Methods: Cross-sectional follow-up telephone survey. A questionnaire developed by The Pediatric Initiative Network of the Oncofertility Consortium, modified to assess intent and attitudes regarding OTC, tissue access knowledge, financial burden of tissue storage, and intent to use tissue, was utilized. Interviews were conducted for those who underwent OTC at a metropolitan children's hospital between 2013 and 2022. Results: Of 60 eligible patients, 39 interviews were completed. Contacted patients were 3-28 years old, with minors accompanied by guardians. Average age at OTC was 8.5 years old, and 5.1% (2/39) were deceased at the time of contact. All interviewees underwent OTC for fertility preservation before gonadotoxic treatment. Seventy percent of patients (7/10) and 48.1% (13/27) of guardians stated they would use frozen tissue for pregnancy, with 50% (5/10) of patients and 59.3% (16/27) of guardians not understanding tissue access. Regret occurred in 10% (1/10) of patients and 3.4% (1/29) of guardians. It was associated with 10.8% (4/37) of tissue discard due to failed storage payments. Financial concerns occurred in 29.7% (11/37) of interviewees. Overall, 92.3% (36/39) would recommend OTC, and 94.9% (37/39) would repeat their choice to undergo OTC. Conclusion: Follow-up after OTC is essential to patient understanding of tissue status, access, and payments. Most do not regret OTC, except in cases of financial burden leading to tissue discard. Follow-up should be sequentially scheduled and include counseling on financial assistance programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Piselli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Children's National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Jacqueline C Yano
- Children's National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- National Institutes of Health, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Veronica Gomez-Lobo
- Children's National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- National Institutes of Health, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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2
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Weidlinger S, Graber S, Bratschi I, Pape J, Kollár A, Karrer T, von Wolff M. A Systematic Review of the Gonadotoxicity of Osteosarcoma and Ewing's Sarcoma Chemotherapies in Postpubertal Females and Males. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2024; 13:597-606. [PMID: 38629685 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2023.0185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Data on gonadotoxicity of chemotherapies are essential to better counsel young females and males about the risk of infertility and to better indicate fertility preservation measures before cancer therapies. However, such data have not recently been reviewed for bone cancer. Therefore, a systematic literature search was conducted considering papers published since 2000. This study is part of the FertiTOX® project, which aims to improve the lack of data regarding gonadotoxicity of cancer therapies to enable more accurate counseling regarding fertility preservation. Only relapse-free women and men were included. Gonadotoxic therapy-induced suspected infertility was defined as very low anti-mullerian hormone, high gonadotropin concentration, amenorrhea, oligomenorrhea, azoospermia, or oligozoospermia. The quality of the individual studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). In total, 11 out of 831 studies were included in the review. Suspected infertility was found in 10/190 (5.1%, range 0%-66%) of female patients with osteosarcoma (six studies), in 24/46 (52.2%, range 46%-100%) of male patients with osteosarcoma (three studies), in 18/138 (13.0%, range 3%-18%) of female patients with Ewing's sarcoma (three studies), and in 34/38 (89.5%) of male patients with Ewing's sarcoma (one study). A risk calculation in relation to specific chemotherapies was not possible. Risk of suspected infertility tends to be higher in Ewing's sarcoma in which all patients received chemotherapies with alkylating agents. Two of the 11 included studies received a high NOS quality score, whereas the remaining nine studies received a low quality score, mainly because of the lack of a comparator group. Published data are too limited for precise estimation of the gonadotoxicity. However, data indicate clinically relevant risk for infertility, supporting counseling patients before chemotherapy about fertility preservation measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Weidlinger
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women's Hospital, Inselspital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Satu Graber
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women's Hospital, Inselspital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Irina Bratschi
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women's Hospital, Inselspital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Janna Pape
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women's Hospital, Inselspital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Attila Kollár
- Department of Medical Oncology, Inselspital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Tanya Karrer
- Medical Library, University Library Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Michael von Wolff
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women's Hospital, Inselspital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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3
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McElhinney KL, Rowell EE, Laronda MM. Encapsulation of Bovine Primordial Follicles in Rigid Alginate Does Not Affect Growth Dynamics. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:734. [PMID: 39061816 PMCID: PMC11273846 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11070734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The only fertility preservation and subsequent restoration option for many patients facing gonadotoxic treatments is ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation. While this process is successful for some, there is significant room for improvement to extend the life of the transplant and to make it safe for patients that may have metastatic disease within their ovarian tissue. We need a deeper understanding of how the physical properties of the ovarian microenvironment may affect folliculogenesis to engineer an environment that supports isolated follicles and maintains primordial follicle quiescence. Bovine ovaries were used here as a monovulatory model of folliculogenesis to examine the effects of primordial follicle activation and growth under different physical conditions. We found that there were no differences in activation, growth or survival when primordial follicles were cultured in isolation or in situ (remaining in the tissue) under two significantly differently rigid alginate gels. To determine if the extra rigid environment did not affect activation in isolated follicles due to an immediate activation event, we used 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) to track follicle activation during the isolation process. We identified EdU incorporation in granulosa cells after primordial follicles were isolated from the surrounding extracellular matrix (ECM). These findings support that isolation of primordial follicles from the ECM is an activating event and that the differentially rigid environments assessed here had no effect on follicle growth. Further work is needed to suppress activation in primordial follicles to maintain the ovarian reserve and extend the life of an ovarian tissue transplant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn L. McElhinney
- Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (K.L.M.)
- Department of Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Erin E. Rowell
- Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (K.L.M.)
- Department of Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Monica M. Laronda
- Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; (K.L.M.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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4
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Rich BS, McCracken K, Nagel C, Allen L, Aldrink JH. The Shared Ovary: A Multidisciplinary Discussion With Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology. J Pediatr Surg 2024; 59:1349-1354. [PMID: 38614951 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2024.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Pediatric and adolescent ovarian lesions are common and are frequently managed by both pediatric surgeons and pediatric and adolescent gynecologists. During the 2023 American Academy of Pediatric Section on Surgery meeting, an educational symposium was delivered focusing on various aspects of management of pediatric and adolescent benign and malignant masses, borderline lesions, and fertility options for children and adolescents undergoing cancer therapies. This article highlights the discussion during this symposium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barrie S Rich
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Northwell Health, Cohen Children's Medical Center, New Hyde Park, NY, USA
| | - Kate McCracken
- Section of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, Division of Gynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Christa Nagel
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Lisa Allen
- Division of Pediatric Gynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sick Kids Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jennifer H Aldrink
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA.
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5
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Sänger N, John J, Einenkel R, Schallmoser A. First report on successful delivery after retransplantation of vitrified, rapid warmed ovarian tissue in Europe. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 49:103940. [PMID: 38744030 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2024.103940] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Cryopreservation of ovarian tissue is one feasible option to preserve female fertility prior to cancer treatment. The slow freezing protocol represents the current standard approach, while vitrification has been suggested as a promising alternative. This paper reports the follow-up and first successful delivery after retransplantation of vitrified, rapid warmed ovarian tissue in Europe. DESIGN After the patient received a diagnosis of breast cancer, ovarian tissue was removed laparoscopically and sent via overnight transportation to University Hospital Bonn for vitrification on site. The patient was treated with chemotherapy, leading to ovarian failure. After 2 years, retransplantation of the vitrified, rapid warmed tissue was conducted on site. RESULTS Two months after grafting, the patient reported regular menstrual cycles. After 1 further month a clinical pregnancy occurred, which ended in a spontaneous abortion at the 8th week of pregnancy. Six months after grafting, another naturally conceived pregnancy was determined, resulting in the birth of a healthy boy 14 months after retransplantation of the ovarian tissue. CONCLUSIONS Complementing the successful deliveries reported by the groups of Suzuki (Japan) and Silber (USA) regarding vitrified tissue, the current results confirm the high potential of this cryopreservation method in a clinical routine setting as an alternative approach to the widespread slow freezing method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Sänger
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Germany.
| | - Julia John
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Germany
| | - Rebekka Einenkel
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Germany
| | - Andreas Schallmoser
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Germany
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6
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Jiang M, Zhang GH, Yu Y, Zhao YH, Liu J, Zeng Q, Feng MY, Ye F, Xiong DS, Wang L, Zhang YN, Yu L, Wei JJ, He LB, Zhi W, Du XR, Li NJ, Han CL, Yan HQ, Zhou ZT, Miao YB, Wang W, Liu WX. De novo design of a nanoregulator for the dynamic restoration of ovarian tissue in cryopreservation and transplantation. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:330. [PMID: 38862987 PMCID: PMC11167790 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02602-5] [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: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The cryopreservation and transplantation of ovarian tissue underscore its paramount importance in safeguarding reproductive capacity and ameliorating reproductive disorders. However, challenges persist in ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation (OTC-T), including the risk of tissue damage and dysfunction. Consequently, there has been a compelling exploration into the realm of nanoregulators to refine and enhance these procedures. This review embarks on a meticulous examination of the intricate anatomical structure of the ovary and its microenvironment, thereby establishing a robust groundwork for the development of nanomodulators. It systematically categorizes nanoregulators and delves deeply into their functions and mechanisms, meticulously tailored for optimizing ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation. Furthermore, the review imparts valuable insights into the practical applications and obstacles encountered in clinical settings associated with OTC-T. Moreover, the review advocates for the utilization of microbially derived nanomodulators as a potent therapeutic intervention in ovarian tissue cryopreservation. The progression of these approaches holds the promise of seamlessly integrating nanoregulators into OTC-T practices, thereby heralding a new era of expansive applications and auspicious prospects in this pivotal domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Jiang
- School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Guo-Hui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Yuan Yu
- School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - Yu-Hong Zhao
- School of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610083, China
| | - Jun Liu
- School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - Qin Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Meng-Yue Feng
- School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - Fei Ye
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Dong-Sheng Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Li Wang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Ya-Nan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Ling Yu
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Jia-Jing Wei
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Li-Bing He
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Weiwei Zhi
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China
| | - Xin-Rong Du
- School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - Ning-Jing Li
- School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - Chang-Li Han
- School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - He-Qiu Yan
- School of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610083, China
| | - Zhuo-Ting Zhou
- School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China
| | - Yang-Bao Miao
- Department of Haematology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610000, China.
| | - Wen Wang
- Department of Haematology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 610000, China.
| | - Wei-Xin Liu
- School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, Sichuan, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, The Affiliated Women's and Children's Hospital of Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, 610045, China.
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7
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Tsui EL, McDowell HB, Laronda MM. Restoring Ovarian Fertility and Hormone Function: Recent Advancements, Ongoing Efforts and Future Applications. J Endocr Soc 2024; 8:bvae073. [PMID: 38698870 PMCID: PMC11065362 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvae073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The last 20 years have seen substantial improvements in fertility and hormone preservation and restoration technologies for a growing number of cancer survivors. However, further advancements are required to fill the gaps for those who cannot use current technologies or to improve the efficacy and longevity of current fertility and hormone restoration technologies. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) followed by ovarian tissue transplantation (OTT) offers those unable to undergo ovarian stimulation for egg retrieval and cryopreservation an option that restores both fertility and hormone function. However, those with metastatic disease in their ovaries are unable to transplant this tissue. Therefore, new technologies to produce good-quality eggs and restore long-term cyclic ovarian function are being investigated and developed to expand options for a variety of patients. This mini-review describes current and near future technologies including in vitro maturation, in vitro follicle growth and maturation, bioprosthetic ovaries, and stem cell applications in fertility restoration research by their proximity to clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth L Tsui
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Hannah B McDowell
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Monica M Laronda
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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8
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Malo C, Oliván S, Ochoa I, Shikanov A. In Vitro Growth of Human Follicles: Current and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1510. [PMID: 38338788 PMCID: PMC10855051 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031510] [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: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Ovarian tissue cryopreservation is gaining importance as a successful method to restore fertility to girls and young women at high risk of sterility. However, there are concerns regarding the safety of transplantation after ovarian tissue cryopreservation due to the high risk of reintroducing cancer cells and causing disease recurrence. In these cases, the development of culture systems that support oocyte development from the primordial follicle stage is required. Notable achievements have been reached in human follicle in vitro growth in the past decade. Currently, systems for the in vitro culture of ovarian tissue are based on two-dimensional substrates that do not support the survival of follicles or recapitulate the mechanical heterogenicity in the mammalian ovary. Recognition of the importance of special arrangements between cells has spurred research in three-dimensional culture systems, and the provision of a precise culture system that maximizes the diffusion of nutrients and gases through the follicles has raised interest in advanced biomimetic models. The current review critically examines various culture systems employed for the in vitro development of follicles, with a particular focus on solutions utilizing Organ-on-a-Chip (OOC) technology. The emphasis on OOC technology underscores its role as a promising avenue in ensuring the successful cultivation and maintenance of follicular structures during the culture period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Malo
- Tissue Microenvironment (TME) Lab, Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain; (S.O.); (I.O.)
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Sara Oliván
- Tissue Microenvironment (TME) Lab, Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain; (S.O.); (I.O.)
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ignacio Ochoa
- Tissue Microenvironment (TME) Lab, Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain; (S.O.); (I.O.)
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ariella Shikanov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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9
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Finkelstein T, Zhang Y, Vollenhoven B, Rolnik DL, Horta F. Successful pregnancy rates amongst patients undergoing ovarian tissue cryopreservation for non-malignant indications: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2024; 292:30-39. [PMID: 37952490 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2023.11.004] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) is a fertility preservation method that has been clinically applied for almost 30 years. Studies specifically evaluating patients presenting with non-malignant indications for OTC and their subsequent pregnancy rates are limited. OBJECTIVE To summarise the evidence on the rates of successful pregnancy amongst women who have undergone OTC for non-malignant indications. METHODS A systematic review with meta-analysis (PROSPERO registration CRD42022307925) was conducted to investigate the pregnancy outcomes of patients who have undergone ovarian tissue cryopreservation for non-malignant indications. Articles published in EMBASE and Ovid MEDLINE before October 2022 were screened for inclusion based on the following criteria: original human studies pertaining to OTC with a defined non-malignant cohort and pregnancy outcomes. The successful pregnancy rates were pooled with a random-effects model of double-arcsine transformed proportions. Sensitivity analysis involved pooling the results of studies with a low risk of bias after being assessed with NIH tools. RESULTS The database search retrieved 3,225 results, of which 16 were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled successful pregnancy rate was 23.52 % (16 studies, 95 % CI 6.48 to 44.79 %). When subgroup analysis of study types was performed, the successful pregnancy rate was higher amongst case series (47.02 %, 9 studies, 95 % CI 6.98 to 89.00 %) than cohort studies (14.64 %, 7 studies, 95 % CI 3.59 to 29.78 %). Sensitivity analysis limited to studies at low risk of bias revealed a similar pooled successful pregnancy rate of 23.35 % (12 studies, 95 % CI 2.50 to 51.96 %). CONCLUSIONS Approximately one quarter of women who underwent OTC for non-malignant indications had a successful pregnancy. These findings are clinically important for fertility preservation counselling by providing greater evidence for more informed care.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Finkelstein
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia.
| | - Y Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - B Vollenhoven
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia; Women's and Newborn, Monash Health, Australia; Monash IVF Melbourne, Australia
| | - D L Rolnik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia; Women's and Newborn, Monash Health, Australia
| | - F Horta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia; Monash Data Future Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia; City Fertility, Australia
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10
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Xie B, Li J, Huang Y, Hang F, Hu Q, Yu J, Qin A. Assessing the impact of transplant site on ovarian tissue transplantation: a single-arm meta-analysis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:120. [PMID: 38087312 PMCID: PMC10714583 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01167-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Survival rates of young women undergoing cancer treatment have substantially improved, with a focus on post-treatment quality of life. Ovarian tissue transplantation (OTT) is a viable option to preserve fertility; however, there is no consensus on the optimal transplantation site. Most studies on OTT are nonrandomized controlled trials with limited sample sizes and uncontrolled statistical analyses, leaving the question of which transplant site yields the highest chance of achieving a live birth unanswered. OBJECTIVE This meta-analysis aimed to assess the effect of different ovarian transplant sites on postoperative reproductive outcomes. METHODS We adhered to the PRISMA Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses recommendations. Systematic searches were conducted in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library from inception to September 17, 2023. The inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) women who underwent OTT with a desire for future childbirth, and (2) reports of specific transplant sites and corresponding pregnancy outcomes. The exclusion criteria included the inability to isolate or extract relevant outcome data, case reports, non-original or duplicate data, and articles not written in English. RESULTS Twelve studies (201 women) were included in the meta-analysis of cumulative live birth rates (CLBR) after OTT. The CLBR, which encompasses both spontaneous pregnancies and those achieved through assisted reproductive technology (ART) following OTT to the ovarian site, was 21% (95% CI: 6-40, I2: 52.81%, random effect). For transplantation to the pelvic site, the live birth rate was 30% (95% CI: 20-40, I2: 0.00%, fixed effect). Combining transplantation to both the pelvic and ovarian sites resulted in a live birth rate of 23% (95% CI: 11-36, I2: 0.00%, fixed effect). Notably, heterotopic OTT yielded a live birth rate of 3% (95% CI: 0-17, I2: 0.00%, fixed effect). CONCLUSION Pregnancy outcomes were not significantly different after orthotopic ovarian transplantation, and pregnancy and live birth rates after orthotopic OTT were significantly higher than those after ectopic transplantation. REGISTRATION NUMBER INPLASY202390008.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoli Xie
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Jiaxu Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Yingqin Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Maternal and Child Health Hospital in Guangxi, Guangxi, 530021, China
| | - Fu Hang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Qianwen Hu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Jiaxin Yu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Aiping Qin
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, China.
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11
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Albamonte MI, Vitullo AD. Preservation of fertility in female and male prepubertal patients diagnosed with cancer. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:2755-2767. [PMID: 37770817 PMCID: PMC10656407 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02945-2] [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: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past two decades, the importance of fertility preservation has grown not only in the realm of medical and clinical patient care, but also in the field of basic and applied research in human reproduction. With advancements in cancer treatments resulting in higher rates of patient survival, it is crucial to consider the quality of life post-cure. Therefore, fertility preservation must be taken into account prior to antitumor treatments, as it can significantly impact a patient's future fertility. For postpubertal patients, gamete cryopreservation is the most commonly employed preservation strategy. However, for prepubertal patients, the situation is more intricate. Presently, ovarian tissue cryopreservation is the standard practice for prepubertal girls, but further scientific evidence is required in several aspects. Testicular tissue cryopreservation, on the other hand, is still experimental for prepubertal boys. The primary aim of this review is to address the strategies available for possible fertility preservation in prepubertal girls and boys, such as ovarian cryopreservation/transplantation, in vitro follicle culture and meiotic maturation, artificial ovary, transplantation of cryopreserved spermatogonia, and cryopreservation/grafting of immature testicular tissue and testicular organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Itatí Albamonte
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Hidalgo 775, C1405BCK, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alfredo D Vitullo
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Hidalgo 775, C1405BCK, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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12
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Ruan X. Expert consensus on fertility preservation in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in girls in China. Gynecol Endocrinol 2023; 39:2146671. [PMID: 36403607 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2022.2146671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims: Preconditioning before hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) seriously damages the ovarian function and causes female infertility. This consensus focuses on the fertility preservation(FP) for girls needing HSCT, aim to make doctors in different disciplines aware of the importance, necessity and technique of ovarian protection.Materials and methods: Summarizing relevant literature and organizing multidisciplinary experts, including obstetrics and gynecology, reproductive medicine, oncology, pediatrics and hematology for full discussion.Results: Individuals exposed to HSCT in childhood are at higher risk of loss of fertility. Considering the high risk of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) after conditioning and negative impact of POI on fertility, physical and mental health, it is absolutely necessary to protect fertility before HSCT conditioning. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation is the main fertility preservation option for these population.Conclusions: Fertility preservation before HSCT conditioning is crucial. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation is often the only option for these population.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Ruan
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University. Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
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13
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Kashi O, Meirow D. Overactivation or Apoptosis: Which Mechanisms Affect Chemotherapy-Induced Ovarian Reserve Depletion? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16291. [PMID: 38003481 PMCID: PMC10671775 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216291] [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: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Dormant primordial follicles (PMF), which constitute the ovarian reserve, are recruited continuously into the cohort of growing follicles in the ovary throughout female reproductive life. Gonadotoxic chemotherapy was shown to diminish the ovarian reserve pool, to destroy growing follicle population, and to cause premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). Three primary mechanisms have been proposed to account for this chemotherapy-induced PMF depletion: either indirectly via over-recruitment of PMF, by stromal damage, or through direct toxicity effects on PMF. Preventative pharmacological agents intervening in these ovotoxic mechanisms may be ideal candidates for fertility preservation (FP). This manuscript reviews the mechanisms that disrupt follicle dormancy causing depletion of the ovarian reserve. It describes the most widely studied experimental inhibitors that have been deployed in attempts to counteract these affects and prevent follicle depletion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oren Kashi
- The Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan 5262000, Israel;
| | - Dror Meirow
- The Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan 5262000, Israel;
- Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
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14
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Canosa S, Revelli A, Gennarelli G, Cormio G, Loizzi V, Arezzo F, Petracca EA, Carosso AR, Cimadomo D, Rienzi L, Vaiarelli A, Ubaldi FM, Silvestris E. Innovative Strategies for Fertility Preservation in Female Cancer Survivors: New Hope from Artificial Ovary Construction and Stem Cell-Derived Neo-Folliculogenesis. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2748. [PMID: 37893822 PMCID: PMC10606281 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11202748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in anticancer treatment have significantly improved the survival rate of young females; unfortunately, in about one third of cancer survivors the risk of ovarian insufficiency and infertility is still quite relevant. As the possibility of becoming a mother after recovery from a juvenile cancer is an important part of the quality of life, several procedures to preserve fertility have been developed: ovarian surgical transposition, induction of ovarian quiescence by gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRH-a) treatment, and oocyte and/or ovarian cortical tissue cryopreservation. Ovarian tissue cryostorage and allografting is a valuable technique that applies even to prepubertal girls; however, some patients cannot benefit from it due to the high risk of reintroducing cancer cells during allograft in cases of ovary-metastasizing neoplasias, such as leukemias or NH lymphomas. Innovative techniques are now under investigation, as in the construction of an artificial ovary made of isolated follicles inserted into an artificial matrix scaffold, and the use of stem cells, including ovarian stem cells (OSCs), to obtain neo-folliculogenesis and the development of fertilizable oocytes from the exhausted ovarian tissue. This review synthesizes and discusses these innovative techniques, which potentially represent interesting strategies in oncofertility programs and a new hope for young female cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Canosa
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.)
| | - Alberto Revelli
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.)
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 2U, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Gianluca Gennarelli
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.)
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Gennaro Cormio
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Vera Loizzi
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Francesca Arezzo
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Easter Anna Petracca
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
| | - Andrea Roberto Carosso
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Danilo Cimadomo
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
| | - Laura Rienzi
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Alberto Vaiarelli
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
| | - Filippo Maria Ubaldi
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
| | - Erica Silvestris
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
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15
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Karavani G, Vedder K, Gutman-Ido E, Gruda Sussman R, Goldschmidt N, Mordechai-Daniel T, Ben-Meir A, Imbar T. Prior exposure to chemotherapy does not reduce the in vitro maturation potential of oocytes obtained from ovarian cortex in cancer patients. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:1705-1713. [PMID: 37414543 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does chemotherapy exposure affect IVM potential of immature oocytes retrieved from the ovarian cortex following ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) for fertility preservation? SUMMARY ANSWER The IVM potential of oocyte retrieved from ovarian cortex following OTC is not affected by prior exposure to chemotherapy but primarily dependent on patient's age, while successful retrieval of immature oocytes from the ovarian tissue is negatively affected by chemotherapy and its timing. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The potential and feasibility of IVM in premenarche patients was previously demonstrated, in smaller studies. The scarce data that exist on the IVM potential of oocytes retrieved during OTC following chemotherapy support the feasibility of this process, however, this was not previously shown in the premenarche cancer patients population or in larger cohorts. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A retrospective cohort study evaluating 229 cancer patients aged 1-39 years with attempted retrieval of oocytes from the ovarian tissue and the medium following OTC in a university affiliated fertility preservation unit between 2002 and 2021. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS A total of 172 chemotherapy naïve and 57 chemotherapy exposed patients aged 1-39 years underwent OTC in university affiliated tertiary infertility and IVF center. OTC and IVM outcomes were compared between the chemotherapy naïve and exposed groups. The main outcome measure was mean IVM rate per patient in the chemotherapy naïve and exposed groups, with subgroup analysis of a 1:1 chemotherapy exposed group matched for age at OTC and type of malignancy. We additionally analyzed premenarche and postmenarche patients' outcomes separately and investigated the effect of time from chemotherapy to IVM, malignancy type and chemotherapy regimen on oocyte number and IVM outcomes in the chemotherapy exposed group. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE While the number of retrieved oocytes and percentage of patients with at least one oocyte retrieved was higher in the chemotherapy naïve group (8.7 ± 7.9 versus 4.9 ± 5.6 oocytes and 87.2% versus 73.7%, P < 0.001 and P = 0.016, respectively), IVM rate and number of mature oocytes were comparable between the groups (29.0 ± 25.0% versus 28. 9 ± 29.2% and 2.8 ± 3.1 versus 2.2 ± 2.8, P = 0.979 and P = 0.203, respectively). Similar findings were shown in subgroup analyses for premenarche and postmenarche groups. The only parameter found to be independently associated with IVM rate in a multivariable model was menarche status (F = 8.91, P = 0.004). Logistic regression models similarly showed that past chemotherapy exposure is negatively associated with successful retrieval of oocytes while older age and menarche are predictive of successful IVM. An age and the type of malignancy matched (1:1) chemotherapy naïve and exposed groups were created (25 patients in each group). This comparison demonstrated similar IVM rate (35.4 ± 30.1% versus 31.0 ± 25.2%, P = 0.533) and number of matured oocytes (2.7 ± 3.0. versus 3.0 ± 3.9 oocytes, P = 0.772). Type of malignancy and chemotherapy regimen including alkylating agents were not associated with IVM rate. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study's inherited retrospective design and the long study period carries the possible technological advancement and differences. The chemotherapy exposed group was relatively small and included different age groups. We could only evaluate the potential of the oocytes to reach metaphase II in vitro but not their fertilization potential or clinical outcomes. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS IVM is feasible even after chemotherapy broadening the fertility preservation options of cancer patients. The use of IVM for fertility preservation, even after exposure to chemotherapy, should be further studied for optimal postchemotherapy timing safety and for the in vitro matured oocytes potential for fertilization. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) No funding was received for this study by any of the authors. The authors report that no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilad Karavani
- In-Vitro Fertilization Unit, Hadassah Ein-Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Ein-Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Koral Vedder
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Einat Gutman-Ido
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Ein-Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Raizl Gruda Sussman
- Division of Haematology/Oncology, Department of Paediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Neta Goldschmidt
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Hematology, Hadassah Ein-Kerem Medical Center, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Talya Mordechai-Daniel
- In-Vitro Fertilization Unit, Hadassah Ein-Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Ein-Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Assaf Ben-Meir
- In-Vitro Fertilization Unit, Hadassah Ein-Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Ein-Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Tal Imbar
- In-Vitro Fertilization Unit, Hadassah Ein-Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Ein-Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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16
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Bindels J, Squatrito M, Bernet L, Nisolle M, Henry L, Munaut C. The mTOR Inhibitor Rapamycin Counteracts Follicle Activation Induced by Ovarian Cryopreservation in Murine Transplantation Models. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1474. [PMID: 37629764 PMCID: PMC10456585 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59081474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Ovarian tissue cryopreservation followed by autotransplantation (OTCTP) is currently the only fertility preservation option for prepubertal patients. Once in remission, the autotransplantation of frozen/thawed tissue is performed when patients want to conceive. A major issue of the procedure is follicular loss directly after grafting mainly due to follicle activation. To improve follicular survival during the OTCTP procedure, we inhibited the mTOR pathway involved in follicle activation using rapamycin, an mTOR inhibitor. Next, we compared two different in vivo models of transplantation: the recently described non-invasive heterotopic transplantation model between the skin layers of the ears, and the more conventional and invasive transplantation under the kidney capsule. Materials and Methods: To study the effects of adding rapamycin during cryopreservation, 4-week-old C57BL/6 mouse ovaries, either fresh, slow-frozen, or slow-frozen with rapamycin, were autotransplanted under the kidney capsule of mice and recovered three weeks later for immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis. To compare the ear with the kidney capsule transplantation model, fresh 4-week-old C57BL/6 mouse ovaries were autotransplanted to either site, followed by an injection of either LY294002, a PI3K inhibitor, vehicle control, or neither, and these were recovered three weeks later for IHC analysis. Results: Rapamycin counteracts cryopreservation-induced follicle proliferation, as well as AKT and mTOR pathway activation, in ovaries autotransplanted for three weeks under the kidney capsule of mice. Analyses of follicle proliferation, mTOR activation, and the effects of LY294002 treatment were similar in transplanted ovaries using either the ear or kidney capsule transplantation model. Conclusions: By adding rapamycin during the OTCTP procedure, we were able to transiently maintain primordial follicles in a quiescent state. This is a promising method for improving the longevity of the ovarian graft. Furthermore, both the ear and kidney capsule transplantation models were suitable for investigating follicle activation and proliferation and pharmacological strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jules Bindels
- Laboratory of Biology of Tumor and Development, GIGA-Cancer, Université de Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (J.B.); (M.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Marlyne Squatrito
- Laboratory of Biology of Tumor and Development, GIGA-Cancer, Université de Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (J.B.); (M.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Laëtitia Bernet
- Laboratory of Biology of Tumor and Development, GIGA-Cancer, Université de Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (J.B.); (M.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Michelle Nisolle
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital de la Citadelle, Université de Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (M.N.); (L.H.)
| | - Laurie Henry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital de la Citadelle, Université de Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (M.N.); (L.H.)
| | - Carine Munaut
- Laboratory of Biology of Tumor and Development, GIGA-Cancer, Université de Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (J.B.); (M.S.); (L.B.)
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17
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Abdallah AS, Arva NC, Finlayson CA, Melin-Aldana H, Papadakis JL, Rowell EE, Weisman AG, Whitehead J, Yerkes EB, Yuodsnukis BT, Johnson EK, Laronda MM. Workflow for Management of Gonadal Neoplasm in 2 Patients with Differences of Sex Development Enrolled in an Experimental Gonadal Tissue Cryopreservation Protocol. Urology 2023; 178:125-132. [PMID: 37236371 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2023.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To outline our experimental gonadal tissue cryopreservation (GTC) protocol that does not disrupt the standard of care in medically-indicated gonadectomy for patients with differences of sex development, including highlighting the multidisciplinary collaborative protocol for when neoplasm is discovered in these cases. METHODS Two patients with complete gonadal dysgenesis who were undergoing medically-indicated prophylactic bilateral gonadectomy elected to pursue GTC. Both were found to have germ cell neoplasia in situ on initial pathologic analysis, requiring recall of the gonadal tissue, which had been cryopreserved. RESULTS Cryopreserved gonadal tissue was successfully thawed and transferred to pathology for complete analysis. No germ cells were identified in either patient nor were found to have malignancy, so further treatment beyond gonadectomy was not indicated. Pathologic information was communicated to each family, including that long-term GTC was no longer possible. CONCLUSION Organizational planning and coordination between the clinical care teams, GTC laboratory, and pathology were key to handling these cases with neoplasia. Processes that anticipated the possibility of discovering neoplasia within tissue sent to pathology and the potential need to recall GTC tissue to complete staging included (1) documenting the orientation and anatomical position of tissue processed for GTC, (2) defining parameters in which tissue will be recalled, (3) efficiently thawing and transferring GTC tissue to pathology, and (4) coordinating release of pathology results with verbal communication from the clinician to provide context. GTC is desired by many families and at the time of gonadectomy and is (1) feasible for patients with DSD, and (2) did not inhibit patient care in 2 patients with GCNIS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aalaa S Abdallah
- Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL; Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Nicoleta C Arva
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Courtney A Finlayson
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital, Chicago, IL
| | - Hector Melin-Aldana
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Jaclyn L Papadakis
- Pritzker Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Erin E Rowell
- Department of Surgery (Pediatric Surgery), Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Allison Goetsch Weisman
- Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL; Division of Genetics, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital, Chicago, IL
| | - J Whitehead
- Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL; Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital, Chicago, IL
| | - Elizabeth B Yerkes
- Division of Urology, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital, Chicago, IL; Department of Urology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Briahna T Yuodsnukis
- Pritzker Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL; Potocsnak Family Division of Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Emilie K Johnson
- Division of Urology, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital, Chicago, IL; Department of Urology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Monica M Laronda
- Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL; Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL.
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18
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Close A, Burns K, Bjornard K, Webb M, Chavez J, Chow EJ, Meacham L. Fertility preservation in pediatric leukemia and lymphoma: A report from the Children's Oncology Group. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2023; 70:e30407. [PMID: 37194406 PMCID: PMC10525075 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.30407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Certain chemotherapy agents, radiation, and surgery can all negatively impact future fertility. Consults regarding treatment-related risk for infertility and gonadal late effects of these agents should occur at the time of diagnosis as well as during survivorship. Counseling on fertility risk has traditionally varied significantly across providers and institutions. We aim to provide a guide to standardize the assignment of gonadotoxic risk, which can be used in counseling patients both at the time of diagnosis and in survivorship. Gonadotoxic therapies were abstracted from 26 frontline Children's Oncology Group (COG) phase III protocols for leukemia/lymphoma, in use from 2000-2022. A stratification system based on gonadotoxic therapies, sex, and pubertal status was used to assign treatments into minimal, significant, and high level of increased risk for gonadal dysfunction/infertility. Risk levels were assigned to protocols and different treatment arms to aid oncologists and survivor care providers in counseling patients regarding treatment-related gonadotoxicity. Males were most commonly at high risk, with at least one high-risk arm in 14/26 protocols (54%), followed by pubertal females (23% of protocols) and prepubertal females (15% of protocols). All patients who received direct gonadal radiation or hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) were considered at high risk. Partnering with patients and their oncology/survivorship team is imperative for effective fertility counseling both prior to and post treatment, and this comprehensive guide can be used as a tool to standardize and improve reproductive health counseling in patients undergoing COG-based leukemia/lymphoma care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Close
- Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Karen Burns
- Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati School of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Kari Bjornard
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA; Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Martine Webb
- University of California, Los Angeles, Division of Internal Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Josuah Chavez
- Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Eric J. Chow
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Lillian Meacham
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/BMT, Emory University Atlanta, GA USA
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Zajicek M, Volodarsky-Perel A, Shai D, Dick-Necula D, Raanani H, Gruber N, Karplus G, Kassif E, Weisz B, Meirow D. Evaluation of ovarian reserve in young females with non-iatrogenic ovarian insufficiency to establish criteria for ovarian tissue cryopreservation. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 47:102-109. [PMID: 37120360 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.03.004] [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: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Can ovarian reserve parameters predict the outcome of ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTCP) in patients ≤18 years with non-iatrogenic premature ovarian insufficiency (POI)? DESIGN Retrospective cohort analysis carried out in a single tertiary hospital between August 2010 and January 2020. Thirty-seven patients ≤18 years with non-iatrogenic POI (27 with Turner syndrome, six with POI of unknown aetiology, three with galactosemia and one with blepharophimosis, ptosis, epicanthus inversus syndrome) were included. Three parameters were used to evaluate ovarian reserve: anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and transabdominal antral follicle count. Fertility preservation (most commonly OTCP) was offered if ovarian reserve was diminished and one or more parameters was positive. Follicles were counted in ovarian samples obtained at the time of OTCP. RESULTS Ovarian reserve was diminished in 34 patients and 19 of them had one or more positive parameter. Fourteen (11 aged ≥12 years and 3 aged <12) underwent OTCP, one (14 years old) underwent ovarian stimulation and oocyte cryopreservation and four declined fertility preservation. Follicles were detected in 11 of 14 patients who underwent OTCP with one or more positive parameters (79%), and in all those (100%) who had two or three positive parameters. The median number of follicles was 27 (range 5-64) and 48 (range 21-75) in patients ≥12 years and those <12 years, respectively. CONCLUSION This study shows that if OTCP is performed in patients with one or more positive parameters of ovarian activity, a 79% positive predictive value is achieved for the detection of follicles. The incorporation of this criterion for OTCP will minimize the risk of harvesting ovarian tissue with a low number of follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Zajicek
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecological Imaging and Fetal Therapy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer, Ramat Gan, Israel; Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Alexander Volodarsky-Perel
- The Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer, Ramat Gan, Israel; Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Daniel Shai
- The Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer, Ramat Gan, Israel; Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Daniela Dick-Necula
- Department of Pathology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Hila Raanani
- The Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Noah Gruber
- Pediatric Endocrine and Diabetes Unit, Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer, Ramat Gan, Israel; Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Gideon Karplus
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital, Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer, Ramat Gan, Israel; Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Eran Kassif
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecological Imaging and Fetal Therapy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer, Ramat Gan, Israel; Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Boaz Weisz
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecological Imaging and Fetal Therapy, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer, Ramat Gan, Israel; Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Dror Meirow
- The Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel HaShomer, Ramat Gan, Israel; Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel.
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Rangi S, Hur C, Richards E, Falcone T. Fertility Preservation in Women with Endometriosis. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4331. [PMID: 37445365 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12134331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Several mechanisms have been implicated in the pathogenesis of endometriosis-related infertility. For patients considering surgery, the risk of iatrogenic injury is among the most important factors in the context of fertility preservation, along with age and individual reproductive goals. In the case of endometrioma excision, evidence overwhelmingly demonstrates the negative impact of surgery on ovarian reserve, with significant reductions in antimullerian hormone (up to 30% in unilateral versus up to 44% in bilateral endometriomas). The surgical endometriosis patient should be thoroughly counseled regarding fertility preservation and discussion should include tissue, embryo, and oocyte cryopreservation options. For the latter, data support cryopreservation of 10-15 oocytes in women ≤35 years and over 20 for those >35 years for a realistic chance to achieve one or more live births. When performing surgical interventions for endometriosis, reproductive surgeons should employ fertility-conserving surgical methods to reduce the likelihood of postoperative iatrogenic diminished ovarian reserve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Rangi
- Cleveland Clinic Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Health Institute, 9500 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Christine Hur
- Cleveland Clinic Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Health Institute, 9500 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Elliott Richards
- Cleveland Clinic Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Health Institute, 9500 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Tommaso Falcone
- Cleveland Clinic Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Health Institute, 9500 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
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21
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Chen L, Dong Z, Chen X. Fertility preservation in pediatric healthcare: a review. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1147898. [PMID: 37206440 PMCID: PMC10189781 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1147898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Survival rates for children and adolescents diagnosed with malignancy have been steadily increasing due to advances in oncology treatments. These treatments can have a toxic effect on the gonads. Currently, oocyte and sperm cryopreservation are recognized as well-established and successful strategies for fertility preservation for pubertal patients, while the use of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists for ovarian protection is controversial. For prepubertal girls, ovarian tissue cryopreservation is the sole option. However, the endocrinological and reproductive outcomes after ovarian tissue transplantation are highly heterogeneous. On the other hand, immature testicular tissue cryopreservation remains the only alternative for prepubertal boys, yet it is still experimental. Although there are several published guidelines for navigating fertility preservation for pediatric and adolescent patients as well as transgender populations, it is still restricted in clinical practice. This review aims to discuss the indications and clinical outcomes of fertility preservation. We also discuss the probably effective and efficient workflow to facilitate fertility preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Chen
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zirui Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaoyan Chen
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine Institute, Shenzhen Baoan Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
- The Fertility Preservation Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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22
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Celik S, Ozkavukcu S, Celik-Ozenci C. Recombinant anti-Mullerian hormone treatment attenuates primordial follicle loss after ovarian cryopreservation and transplantation. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:1117-1134. [PMID: 36856968 PMCID: PMC10239422 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02754-7] [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: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The foremost drawback of ovarian tissue cryopreservation and re-transplantation (OTCT) technique is the rapid loss of the primordial follicle (PF) pool. In recent studies, we have demonstrated that post-transplantation burnout of the PFs occurs due to the altered expression of the activatory and inhibitory proteins that control PF reserve, and rapamycin prevented it. METHODS Here, we investigated whether anti-Mullerian hormone administration in the bilateral oophorectomy and transplantation group and internal AMH in the unilateral oophorectomy and transplantation group protect follicle reserve by regulating the expression of the molecules that control follicle growth after OTCT in mice. RESULTS After 14 days of OTCT, PF reserve is significantly reduced in both unilateral oophorectomy and transplantation and bilateral oophorectomy and transplantation groups, while anti-Mullerian hormone treatment attenuates PF loss after bilateral oophorectomy and transplantation. The expression of KitL, Bmp-15, and p27 decreased after unilateral oophorectomy and transplantation and bilateral oophorectomy and transplantation, yet recombinant anti-Mullerian hormone treatment did not restore the expression of these proteins in the BLO-T group. CONCLUSION Exogenous recombinant anti-Mullerian hormone administration in the BLO-T group preserved the expressions of Tsc1 and Gdf-9 in PF and p-s6k and Gdf-9 in growing follicles after OTCT. Nonetheless, recombinant anti-Mullerian hormone administration did not affect granulosa cell proliferation and death rates in the growing follicles. These findings suggest a novel hormonal replacement strategy for fertility preservation by restoring anti-Mullerian hormone to regulate Tsc1 and p-s6k, thereby linking this hormone with the mTOR pathway and Gdf-9 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soner Celik
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Akdeniz University, 07070, Antalya, Turkey
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sinan Ozkavukcu
- School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Assisted Conception Unit, DD2 1SG, Dundee, Scotland
| | - Ciler Celik-Ozenci
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Koc University Medical Faculty, Koc University, Rumelifeneri Yolu 34450, Sariyer, Istanbul, Turkey.
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey.
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Izadpanah M, Rahbarghazi R, Seghinsara AM, Abedelahi A. Novel Approaches Used in Ovarian Tissue Transplantation for Fertility Preservation: Focus on Tissue Engineering Approaches and Angiogenesis Capacity. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:1082-1093. [PMID: 35962303 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01048-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Due to the impact of the modern lifestyle, female infertility has been reduced because of different reasons. For example, in combined chemotherapeutic therapies, a small fraction of cancer survivors has faced different post-complications and side effects such as infertility. Besides, in modern society, delayed age of childbearing has also affected fertility. Nowadays, ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation (OTC/T) is considered one of the appropriate strategies for the restoration of ovarian tissue and bioactivity in patients with the loss of reproductive function. In this regard, several procedures have been considered to improve the efficacy and safety of OTT. Among them, a surgical approach is used to transplant ovaries into the optimal sites, but the existence of ischemic changes and lack of appropriate revascularization can lead to bulk follicular atresia. Besides, the role of OTC/T is limited in women of advanced maternal age undergoing lifesaving chemo-radiation. As a correlate, the development of de novo approaches with efficacious regenerative outcomes is highly welcomed. Tissue engineering shows high therapeutic potentialities to restore fertility in males and females using the combination of biomaterials, cells, and growth factors. Unfortunately, most synthetic and natural materials are at the experimental stage and only the efficacy has been properly evaluated in limited cases. Along with these descriptions, strategies associated with the induction of angiogenesis in transplanted ovaries can diminish the injuries associated with ischemic changes. In this review, the authors tried to summarize recent techniques, especially tissue engineering approaches for improving ovarian function and fertility by focusing on angiogenesis and neovascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melika Izadpanah
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, 5166714766, Iran
| | - Reza Rahbarghazi
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Abbas Majdi Seghinsara
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, 5166714766, Iran
| | - Ali Abedelahi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, 5166714766, Iran.
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Olesen HØ, Pors SE, Adrados CS, Zeuthen MC, Mamsen LS, Pedersen AT, Kristensen SG. Effects of needle puncturing on re-vascularization and follicle survival in xenotransplanted human ovarian tissue. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:28. [PMID: 36941662 PMCID: PMC10026519 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01081-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ovarian tissue transplantation can restore fertility in young cancer survivors, however the detrimental loss of follicles following transplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue is hampering the efficiency of the procedure. This study investigates whether needle puncturing prior to transplantation can enhance revascularization and improve follicle survival in xenotransplanted human ovarian cortex. METHODS Cryopreserved human ovarian cortex pieces (N = 36) from 20 women aged 24-36 years were included. During the thawing process, each piece of tissue was cut in halves; one half serving as the untreated control and the other half was punctured approximately 150-200 times with a 29-gauge needle. The cortex pieces were transplanted subcutaneously to immunodeficient mice for 3, 6 and 10 days (N = 8 patients) and for 4 weeks (N = 12 patients). After 3, 6 and 10 days, revascularization of the ovarian xenografts were assessed using immunohistochemical detection of CD31 and gene expression of angiogenic factors (Vegfα, Angptl4, Ang1, and Ang2), and apoptotic factors (BCL2 and BAX) were performed by qPCR. Follicle density and morphology were evaluated in ovarian xenografts after 4 weeks. RESULTS A significant increase in the CD31 positive area in human ovarian xenografts was evident from day 3 to 10, but no significant differences were observed between the needle and control group. The gene expression of Vegfα was consistently higher in the needle group compared to control at all three time points, but not statistically significant. The expression of Ang1 and Ang2 increased significantly from day 3 to day 10 in the control group (p < 0.001, p = 0.0023), however, in the needle group this increase was not observed from day 6 to 10 (Ang2 p = 0.027). The BAX/BCL2 ratio was similar in the needle and control groups. After 4-weeks xenografting, follicle density (follicles/mm3, mean ± SEM) was higher in the needle group (5.18 ± 2.24) compared to control (2.36 ± 0.67) (p = 0.208), and a significant lower percentage of necrotic follicles was found in the needle group (19%) compared to control (36%) (p = 0.045). CONCLUSIONS Needle puncturing of human ovarian cortex prior to transplantation had no effect on revascularization of ovarian grafts after 3, 6 and 10 days xenotransplantation. However, needle puncturing did affect angiogenic genes and improved follicle morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Ørnes Olesen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, Section 5712, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Susanne Elisabeth Pors
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, Section 5712, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Cristina Subiran Adrados
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, Section 5712, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mette Christa Zeuthen
- Department of Technology, Faculty of Health, University College Copenhagen, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Linn Salto Mamsen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, Section 5712, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anette Tønnes Pedersen
- Fertility Clinic, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stine Gry Kristensen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, Section 5712, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Houeis L, Dolmans MM. Summary of the ISFP congress, Brussels, 10-12 November, 2022. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:433-442. [PMID: 36765026 PMCID: PMC10033808 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02720-3] [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: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The 7th International Congress of the ISFP was held in Brussels in November 2022. Hundreds of attendees from all over the world had the rare opportunity to hear the most distinguished leaders discuss and debate the latest advances in the field. Participants were also able to attend workshops under the guidance of skilled practitioners. Numerous topics were considered, including a recap on fertility preservation approaches in cancer and benign pathologies and a section on male factor infertility. Other aspects covered were in vitro maturation and poor responders, the impact of chemotherapy on the ovary, and future perspectives. Participants had the chance to listen to a symposium on fertility preservation techniques, and finally, a keynote lecture on fertility preservation in gynecological cancers brought this prominent and highly influential event to a close.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Houeis
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marie-Madeleine Dolmans
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.
- Department of Gynecology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium.
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El Alaoui-Lasmaili K, Nguyen-Thi PL, Demogeot N, Lighezzolo-Alnot J, Gross MJ, Mansuy L, Chastagner P, Koscinski I. Fertility discussions and concerns in childhood cancer survivors, a systematic review for updated practice. Cancer Med 2023; 12:6023-6039. [PMID: 36224740 PMCID: PMC10028046 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To provide ways to improve the clinical practice of fertility preservation (FP) for children, adolescents, and young adults (AYA) with cancer. DESIGN A systematic research of online databases was undertaken in March 2020 following the PRISMA criteria, including Medline and Web of Science. RESULTS Fifty-nine articles were included. Surveys, interviews, and focus groups were used to collect data from patients, parents, and health care providers (HCPs). Four themes worth exploring emerged: (a) what do patients and professionals think of and know about FP? (b) what makes the fertility discussion happen or not? (c) what, retrospectively, led to FP being pursued or not? and (d) how do patients and HCPs feel about fertility issues? CONCLUSION A minority of AYAs preserve their fertility (banking assay for 45% of boys and 23% of girls). Yet fertility concerns have a significant impact on the quality of life of young cancer survivors. Although recommendations and guidelines regarding FP are available internationally, there are no specific guidelines as to how to conduct fertility counseling for children and adolescents. Some barriers are not removable, such as a poor prognosis of an obvious severe disease, time constraints for starting treatment, and cultural and religious beliefs. In response to aspects hindering patients and families to be receptive to any discussion at the time of diagnosis, psychological support could reduce the level of emotional distress and help restore a degree of open-mindedness to open a window for discussion. Moreover, as the lack of knowledge of professionals about fertility is frequently pointed out as a limiting factor for fertility discussion, reinforcing professional training regarding FP could be proposed to promote fertility discussion and eventually referral for FP.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Phi Linh Nguyen-Thi
- Unité d'évaluation médicale, Unité de Méthodologie, Data management et Statistique - UMDS, CHRU de Nancy
| | - Nadine Demogeot
- Interpsy Laboratory (UR4432), University of Lorraine, Nancy, France
| | | | | | - Ludovic Mansuy
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital of Nancy, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | - Pascal Chastagner
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital of Nancy, Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France
| | - Isabelle Koscinski
- Laboratory of Biology of Reproduction-CECOS Lorraine, University Hospital of Nancy, Nancy, France
- INSERM U1256, NGERE, Université de Lorraine, Nancy, France
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Labrune E, Bianchetti S, Lepinasse O, Soignon G, Salle B, Lornage J. When to cryopreserve ovarian tissue: Determining the effects of chemotherapy on the ovarian reserve by studying follicular density and apoptosis. Cytopathology 2023; 34:146-153. [PMID: 36458472 PMCID: PMC10107618 DOI: 10.1111/cyt.13194] [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: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Patients scheduled to receive chemotherapy should be counselled on fertility preservation. Known gonadotoxic chemotherapies such as alkylating agents have a high risk of altering ovarian reserve. In some cases, the urgency of treatment requires the use of chemotherapy before fertility preservation, which will be carried out at a later stage. Usually the ovarian tissue is cryopreserved. The aim of our study is to investigate the impact of chemotherapies on follicular density and the apoptosis of reserve follicles. METHODS We included 140 patients: 63 patients, mean age 18.8 years, were included in the group "no chemotherapy" (group A) and 77 patients, mean age 17.1 years, in the group "received chemotherapy before ovarian conservation" (group B). None of the patients had had pelvic radiotherapy prior to ovarian cryopreservation. The histological parameters studied were follicular density and the presence of malignant cells. We selected 12 patients from group A and 15 patients from group B, comparable in age and pathology, for whom we evaluated follicle apoptosis by immunostaining cleaved caspase-3. RESULTS We demonstrated an inverse relationship between follicular density and age (p < 0.0001), as well as a lack of effect of chemotherapy on follicular density (p = 0.87). We showed the impact of various chemotherapies, especially with alkylating agents, on the apoptosis of ovarian follicles (p < 0.0001). Three patients had ovarian tissue infiltration, two of which were malignant. CONCLUSION This work underlines the fact that conservation of ovarian tissue after chemotherapy remains possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsa Labrune
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Mère Enfant, Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Bron, France.,Université Claude Bernard, Faculté de Médecine Laennec, Lyon Cedex 08, France.,INSERM Unité 1208, Bron Cedex, France
| | - Serge Bianchetti
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Mère Enfant, Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Bron, France.,Université Claude Bernard, Faculté de Médecine Laennec, Lyon Cedex 08, France.,INSERM Unité 1208, Bron Cedex, France
| | - Odile Lepinasse
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Mère Enfant, Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Bron, France.,INSERM Unité 1208, Bron Cedex, France
| | - Gaelle Soignon
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Mère Enfant, Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Bron, France
| | - Bruno Salle
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Mère Enfant, Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Bron, France.,INSERM Unité 1208, Bron Cedex, France.,Université Claude Bernard, Faculté de Médecine Lyon Sud, Oullins Cedex, France
| | - Jacqueline Lornage
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Mère Enfant, Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Bron, France.,INSERM Unité 1208, Bron Cedex, France.,Université Claude Bernard, Faculté de Médecine Lyon Sud, Oullins Cedex, France
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Wu Y, Huang J, Chen H, Tao H, He Y, Yang G, Zha Q, Lash GE, Li P. Tumor-Derived Oxidative Stress Triggers Ovarian Follicle Loss in Breast Cancer. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2023; 193:608-623. [PMID: 36804378 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2023.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is a common indication for ovarian cryopreservation. However, whether the grafting ovarian tissue meets functional requirements, as well as the need for additional interventions, remains unclear. The current study demonstrates abnormal serum hormones in breast cancer in humans and breast cancer cell line-derived tumor-bearing mice, and for the first time shows tumor-induced loss of primordial and growing follicles and the number of follicles being lost to either growth or atresia. A gene signature of tumor-bearing mice demonstrates the disturbed regulatory network of steroidogenesis, which links to mitochondria dysfunction in oocytes and granulosa cells via the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase signaling pathway. Notably, increased reactive oxygen species are identified in serum and ovarian tissues in tumor-bearing mice. Furthermore, supplementation with vitamin C promotes follicular quiescence, repairing tumor-induced follicle loss via inactivation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-Akt-mammalian target of rapamycin pathway, indicating that antioxidants should be a potential fertility therapy to achieve more numbers of healthy follicles ready for ovarian cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongqi Wu
- Department of Pathology, Jinan University School of Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jieqiong Huang
- Department of Pathology, Jinan University School of Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Chen
- Department of Pathology, Jinan University School of Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huan Tao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yunbiao He
- Department of Medical Statistics, Jinan University School of Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guang Yang
- Department of Pathology, Jinan University School of Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qingbing Zha
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gendie E Lash
- Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Pathology, Jinan University School of Medicine, Guangzhou, China; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Heyuan, China.
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The Glycerol-Induced Perfusion-Kinetics of the Cat Ovaries in the Follicular and Luteal Phases of the Cycle. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13030490. [PMID: 36766594 PMCID: PMC9914571 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13030490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The method of immersion optical clearing reduces light scattering in tissues, which improves the use of optical technologies in the practice of clinicians. In this work, we studied the optical and molecular diffusion properties of cat ovarian tissues in the follicular (F-ph) and luteal (L-ph) phases under the influence of glycerol using reflectance spectroscopy in a broad wavelength range from 200 to 800 nm. It was found that the reflectance and transmittance of the ovaries are significantly lower in the range from 200 to 600 nm than for longer wavelengths from 600 to 800 nm, and the efficiency of optical clearing is much lower for the ovaries in the luteal phase compared to the follicular phase. For shorter wavelengths, the following tissue transparency windows were observed: centered at 350 nm and wide (46 ± 5) nm, centered at 500 nm and wide (25 ± 7) nm for the F-ph state and with a center of 500 nm and a width of (21 ± 6) nm for the L-ph state. Using the free diffusion model, Fick's law of molecular diffusion and the Bouguer-Beer-Lambert radiation attenuation law, the glycerol/tissue water diffusion coefficient was estimated as D = (1.9 ± 0.2)10-6 cm2/s for ovaries at F-ph state and D = (2.4 ± 0.2)10-6 cm2/s-in L-ph state, and the time of complete dehydration of ovarian samples, 0.8 mm thick, as 22.3 min in F-ph state and 17.7 min in L-ph state. The ability to determine the phase in which the ovaries are stated, follicular or luteal, is also important in cryopreservation, new reproductive technologies and ovarian implantation.
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Wasserzug Pash P, Karavani G, Reich E, Zecharyahu L, Kay Z, Bauman D, Mordechai-Daniel T, Imbar T, Klutstein M. Pre-pubertal oocytes harbor altered histone modifications and chromatin configuration. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 10:1060440. [PMID: 36704200 PMCID: PMC9871384 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1060440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Pre-pubertal oocytes are still dormant. They are arrested in a GV state and do not undergo meiotic divisions naturally. A multitude of molecular pathways are changed and triggered upon initiation of puberty. It is not yet clear which epigenetic events occur in oocytes upon pubertal transition, and how significant these epigenetic events may be. We evaluated epigenetic marker levels in mouse pre-pubertal and post-pubertal female oocytes. In addition, we evaluated H3K9me2 levels in human oocytes collected from fertility preservation patients, comparing the levels between pre-pubertal patients and post-pubertal patients. The chromatin structure shows a lower number of chromocenters in mouse post-pubertal oocytes in comparison to pre-pubertal oocytes. All heterochromatin marker levels checked (H3K9me2, H3K27me3, H4K20me1) significantly rise across the pubertal transition. Euchromatin markers vary in their behavior. While H3K4me3 levels rise with the pubertal transition, H3K27Ac levels decrease with the pubertal transition. Treatment with SRT1720 [histone deacetylase (HDAC) activator] or overexpression of heterochromatin factors does not lead to increased heterochromatin in pre-pubertal oocytes. However, treatment of pre-pubertal oocytes with follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) for 24 h - changes their chromatin structure to a post-pubertal configuration, lowers the number of chromocenters and elevates their histone methylation levels, showing that hormones play a key role in chromatin regulation of pubertal transition. Our work shows that pubertal transition leads to reorganization of oocyte chromatin and elevation of histone methylation levels, thus advancing oocyte developmental phenotype. These results provide the basis for finding conditions for in-vitro maturation of pre-pubertal oocytes, mainly needed to artificially mature oocytes of young cancer survivors for fertility preservation purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pe’era Wasserzug Pash
- Institute of Biomedical and Oral research, Faculty of Dental Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Gilad Karavani
- Fertility Preservation Service, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Ein Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Eli Reich
- Institute of Biomedical and Oral research, Faculty of Dental Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Lital Zecharyahu
- Institute of Biomedical and Oral research, Faculty of Dental Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Zehava Kay
- Institute of Biomedical and Oral research, Faculty of Dental Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Dvora Bauman
- Fertility Preservation Service, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Ein Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Talya Mordechai-Daniel
- Fertility Preservation Service, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Ein Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Tal Imbar
- Fertility Preservation Service, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Ein Kerem Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel,*Correspondence: Tal Imbar, ; Michael Klutstein,
| | - Michael Klutstein
- Institute of Biomedical and Oral research, Faculty of Dental Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel,*Correspondence: Tal Imbar, ; Michael Klutstein,
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Hossay C, Tramacere F, Cacciottola L, Camboni A, Squifflet JL, Donnez J, Dolmans MM. Follicle outcomes in human ovarian tissue: effect of freezing, culture, and grafting. Fertil Steril 2023; 119:135-145. [PMID: 36481098 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.09.360] [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: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the effect of freezing, in vitro culture (IVC) and grafting to chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) on follicle outcomes in human ovarian tissue. DESIGN An experimental study. SETTING University-based research laboratory. PATIENTS Fresh and cryopreserved ovarian tissue from 10 patients was donated to research with their consent and institutional review board approval. INTERVENTIONS Fresh and frozen-thawed ovarian cortical pieces were in vitro-cultured and compared (fresh-IVC vs FT-IVC). The FT-IVC fragments were then examined against fragments grafted to CAM (FT-CAM). After both IVC and CAM grafting, ovarian cortical pieces (4×2×1 mm3) were analyzed on days 0, 1, and 6. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Follicle analyses included histology (count and classification) and immunohistochemistry (Ki67 [proliferation], caspase-3 [apoptosis], 1A and 1B light chain 3B [autophagy], p-Akt, FOXO1, and p-rpS6 [PI3K activation]). Droplet digital polymerase chain reaction further explored expression of PI3K pathway- and oocyte-related genes in tissue sections. RESULTS No major differences were detected between fresh-IVC and FT-IVC tissues in any conducted analyses. Although a significant drop was observed in primordial follicle (PF) proportions in the fresh-IVC and FT-IVC groups (d0 vs. d6, P<.002), they held steady in the FT-CAM group (d0 vs. d6, P>.05). The PF rates were also significantly higher in the FT-CAM group than the FT-IVC group on d6 (P=.02). Importantly, avian erythrocytes were already present in 30% of implants from d1. Apoptotic and autophagic follicle rates increased during IVC (P<.008), but remained significantly lower in the FT-CAM group (P<.01), confirming superior follicle preservation in CAM-grafted tissue. Upregulation of the PI3K/FOXO pathway was established in the IVC groups, demonstrating PF activation, whereas significant pathway downregulation was detected in the FT-CAM group (P<.03). The droplet digital polymerase chain reaction tests confirmed oocyte growth during IVC and follicle autophagy in all groups; however, the PI3K pathway appeared to be differentially modulated in tissues and follicles. CONCLUSIONS In vitro culture induces PF depletion with no additional impact of freezing. Grafting to CAM preserves the PF pool by curbing follicle activation, apoptosis, and autophagy, probably thanks to rapid graft revascularization and/or the circulating embryonic antimüllerian hormone. These findings highlight the importance of enhancing neoangiogenesis in ovarian grafts and investigating the potential benefits of administering antimüllerian hormone to prevent PF burnout.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Hossay
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Francesca Tramacere
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Luciana Cacciottola
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alessandra Camboni
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium; Anatomopathology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jean-Luc Squifflet
- Gynecology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jacques Donnez
- Society for Research into Infertility, Brussels, Belgium; Professor Emeritus, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marie-Madeleine Dolmans
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium; Gynecology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium.
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Munyoki SK, Orwig KE. Perspectives: Methods for Evaluating Primate Spermatogonial Stem Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2656:341-364. [PMID: 37249880 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3139-3_18] [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] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis is a complex, highly productive process generating millions of sperm per day. Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are at the foundation of spermatogenesis and can either self-renew, producing more SSCs, or differentiate to initiate spermatogenesis and produce sperm. The biological potential of SSCs to produce and maintain spermatogenesis makes them a promising tool for the treatment of male infertility. However, translating knowledge from rodents to higher primates (monkeys and humans) is challenged by different vocabularies that are used to describe stem cells and spermatogenic lineage development in those species. Furthermore, while rodent SSCs are defined by their biological potential to produce and maintain spermatogenesis in a transplant assay, there is no equivalent routine and accessible bioassay to test monkey and human SSCs or replicate their functions in vitro. This chapter describes progress characterizing, isolating, culturing, and transplanting SSCs in higher primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K Munyoki
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Integrative Systems Biology Graduate Program, Magee-Women's Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Integrative Systems Biology Graduate Program, Magee-Women's Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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Safrai M, Shapira M, Tsur A, Shai D, Raanani H, Aizer A, Stockheim D, Meirow D. Transplantation of small ovarian tissue fragments using pipelle device is effective: method evaluation and reproductive outcomes. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:2827-2834. [PMID: 36418617 PMCID: PMC9790840 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02652-4] [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: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the feasibility, effectiveness, and reproductive outcomes of transplantation of tiny cryopreserved ovarian pieces through a pipelle cannula during laparoscopic surgery. METHODS A retrospective study of patients who underwent ovarian tissue transplantation for fertility restoration between 2004 and 2022. The "pipelle group" had their ovarian cortex cut into tiny pieces of ~ 1-2 mm3 before cryopreservation. The pieces were too small to be handled and transplanted via standard laparoscopic tools. Transplantation was performed using a pipelle cannula during laparoscopic surgery. The "control group" underwent transplants of ovarian cortex pieces 1-2 mm thick, measuring approximately 25-50 mm2 pieces, using standard procedures. RESULTS The pipelle group consisted of 4 patients aged 19, 21, 27, and 28 years old at ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC). The control group consisted of 14 patients aged 21-30 years old. All pipelle patients restored their endocrine activity, and all of them conceived. FSH levels dropped during the first 3 months following the pipelle transplant. IVF cycle outcomes were similar for both groups. All patients from the pipelle group conceived, resulting in 5 pregnancies and 4 live births (one patient had 2 deliveries, and one additional pregnancy is ongoing), compared to the control group, where 8 patients achieved a total of 20 pregnancies and 18 live births. CONCLUSION Pipelle transplantation for tiny cryopreserved ovarian pieces is feasible and effective. This study opens a door for patients who had their ovaries cut into small pieces and may even simplify the procedure in some instances, making ovarian transplant more accessible. TRIAL REGISTRATION (#6531-19-SMC) [18/09/2019].
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Affiliation(s)
- Myriam Safrai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, PO Box 39040, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Moran Shapira
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, PO Box 39040, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Abraham Tsur
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, PO Box 39040, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Daniel Shai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, PO Box 39040, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Hila Raanani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, PO Box 39040, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Adva Aizer
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, PO Box 39040, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Infertility and IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
| | - David Stockheim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, PO Box 39040, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Dror Meirow
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Morris Kahn Fertility Preservation Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel.
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, PO Box 39040, 6997801, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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Khattak H, Woodman H, Afifi Y, Amorim CA, Fishel S, Gallos I, Coomarasamy A, Topping A. Experiences of young girls and women undergoing ovarian tissue cryopreservation: a systematic review and thematic synthesis. J Psychosom Obstet Gynaecol 2022; 43:502-516. [PMID: 35786203 DOI: 10.1080/0167482x.2022.2084376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of young girls and women who underwent or considered ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) using a systematic review of qualitative studies with thematic synthesis framework. Major electronic databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, CINAHL and PsycINFO were searched from 1946 to May 2020 and reference lists of relevant articles were hand searched. Any studies that described a qualitative inquiry and highlighted the experiences of women with regards to OTC were included. Two independent reviewers screened the title and abstracts and made a selection against inclusion criteria. Main outcomes measures were experiences of women who have considered and/or undergone OTC, decision making in women who underwent or considered OTC and patient education. Nineteen studies were assessed for full text eligibility and four were included in analysis. 144 verbatim quotations from 85 participants in high income countries (UK, USA and Denmark) were included. Two studies adopted grounded theory approach, one phenomenology and one inductive content analysis. Four themes were generated; participants described their experiences as emotional, involving complex decision-making, helping them prepare for the long-term consequences of potentially losing their fertility and hormonal function, as well as their experience being educational. Additionally, the more practical aspects of the procedure such as OTC being invasive as well as costs implications were highlighted. Women and young girls are often involved in making time-sensitive decisions whether or not to undergo OTC. Healthcare professionals involved in the care of young girls and women undergoing this method need to also take into consideration the emotional wellbeing of the patients as well as the time and expertise it requires to help them make an informed decision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hajra Khattak
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Hannah Woodman
- Birmingham Medical School, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Yousri Afifi
- Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Christiani A Amorim
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Simon Fishel
- John Webster House, CARE Fertility Group, Nottingham, United Kingdom.,School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Ioannis Gallos
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Arri Coomarasamy
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Annie Topping
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
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Colmorn LB, Pedersen AT, Larsen EC, Hansen AS, Rosendahl M, Andersen CY, Kristensen SG, Macklon KT. Reproductive and Endocrine Outcomes in a Cohort of Danish Women following Auto-Transplantation of Frozen/Thawed Ovarian Tissue from a Single Center. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14235873. [PMID: 36497354 PMCID: PMC9740843 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14235873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) is a method of fertility preservation in girls and young women prior to gonadotoxic treatment. It is a safe and promising method to restore fertility. The initial recovery of endocrine function is high, but the longevity of the grafted tissue varies. In this single-center, combined retro- and prospective cohort study, we report the reproductive outcome and hormonal recovery following ovarian tissue transplantation (OTT) and evaluate possible predictors of the chance of pregnancy. The study includes 40 women from eastern Denmark undergoing 53 OTTs between 2003 and 2021. Permission to obtain retrospective data was given by the Danish Patient Safety Authorities and prospective data-collection by informed consent. Initial recovery of endocrine function was seen in 18/19 women with POI, and ongoing function of the grafted tissue in 7/14 two years from OTT. Live birth rate (LBR) was 41%, with 20 children to 39 women trying to conceive. Women who conceived had higher AFC at the time of OTC than women who did not (p ± 0.04). Repeated transplantations were not successful in terms of delivery. Half of all pregnancies were achieved by ART, but PRs were lower after ART than by spontaneous conception. LBRs after OTT are encouraging. Chance of pregnancy after OTT is correlated to ovarian reserve at OTC. Repeated transplantations were not successful in terms of unfulfilled pregnancy wish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotte B Colmorn
- The Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, University Hospital of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anette T Pedersen
- Gynecological Department, Rigshospitalet, University Hospital of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Elisabeth C Larsen
- The Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, University Hospital of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Alexandra S Hansen
- The Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, University Hospital of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mikkel Rosendahl
- Gynecological Department, Rigshospitalet, University Hospital of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Claus Yding Andersen
- Laboratory for Reproductive Biology, Rigshospitalet, University Hospital of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stine G Kristensen
- Laboratory for Reproductive Biology, Rigshospitalet, University Hospital of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kirsten T Macklon
- The Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, University Hospital of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
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36
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Lotz L, Bender-Liebenthron J, Dittrich R, Häberle L, Beckmann MW, Germeyer A, Korell M, Sänger N, Kruessel JS, von Wolff M. Determinants of transplantation success with cryopreserved ovarian tissue: data from 196 women of the FertiPROTEKT network. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:2787-2796. [PMID: 36272106 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What are the pregnancy and live birth rates for ovarian tissue transplantation and which factors are associated with the success rate? SUMMARY ANSWER Pregnancy and live birth rates per transplanted woman are 32.7% and 26.5% and success rate is associated with female age and first versus repeated transplantation. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Live birth rates after ovarian tissue transplantations have been reported to be between around 24% and 41% per patient. Success rates seem to be negatively associated with increasing female age at the time of tissue cryopreservation and with pelvic radiation. Success rates are apparently not reduced after overnight transportation of ovarian tissue before freezing. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Registry analysis of 244 transplantations in 196 women, performed by 26 FertiPROTEKT network centres from 2007 to 2019 with follow-up till December 2020. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Orthotopic ovarian tissue transplantations were performed in 196 women, 191 with previous malignant and 5 with previous non-malignant diseases. Size of transplanting centres varied between 1 and 100 transplantations per centre (median: 2). Factors possibly associated with success rate such as female age, first and repeated transplantation, experience of the transplanting centre and overnight transportation of the ovarian tissue before freezing were analysed. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Average age of all 196 transplanted women was 31.3 years (SD 5.2; range 17-44) at the time of cryopreservation of tissue and 35.9 years (SD 4.8; range 23-47) at the time of transplantation. Pregnancy rate was 30.6% (95% CI, 24.2-37.6%) per first transplantation and 32.7% (95% CI, 26.1-39.7%) per patient. Pregnancy rate was higher after first transplantation (30.6% (95% CI, 24.2-37.6%)) compared to second and subsequent transplantations (11.8% (95% CI, 3.3-27.5%)). Live birth rate per first transplantation was 25.0% (95% CI, 19.1-31.7%) and per patient 26.5% (95% CI, 20.5-33.3%). Success rate decreased with increasing age at the time of ovarian tissue freezing. Live birth rate was 28.2% (95% CI, 20.9-36.3%) in women <35 years and 16.7% (95% CI, 7.9-29.3%) in women >35 years. Pregnancy rates after first transplantation were higher in centres who had performed ≥10 transplantations (35.1%) compared to centres with <10 transplantation (25.4%) (P = 0.12). Corresponding live birth rates were 27.0% and 18.6%. Success rates were not different in women with and without overnight transportation of tissue before cryopreservation. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The data were drawn from a registry analysis. Data such as ovarian reserve and premature ovarian insufficiency were not available for all women. Data might be influenced by different follow-up policies of the centres. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The study reveals the high potential of ovarian tissue freezing and transplantation, but only if freezing is performed in younger women. The study suggests focus should be placed on the first and not on repeated transplantations. It also opens the discussion of whether transplantation should rather be performed by experienced centres. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) No funding. No competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Lotz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - J Bender-Liebenthron
- UniCareD, University Cryobank for Assisted Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Protection at UniKiD, University Women's Hospital Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - R Dittrich
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - L Häberle
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Biostatistics Unit, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - M W Beckmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - A Germeyer
- Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, University Women's Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - M Korell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Johanna-Etienne-Hospital Neuss, Neuss, Germany
| | - N Sänger
- Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - J S Kruessel
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, UniKiD, University Women's Hospital Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - M von Wolff
- Division of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women's Hospital, Inselspital, Bern, Switzerland
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Fabbri R, Vicenti R, Magnani V, Paradisi R, Lima M, De Meis L, Rossi S, Raimondo D, Casadio P, Venturoli S, Maffi M, Seracchioli R. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation: 20 years experience in Bologna University. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1035109. [PMID: 36313739 PMCID: PMC9597685 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1035109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To report the 20-year experience in ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) and ovarian tissue transplantation (OTT) of the Bologna clinical center (Bologna, Italy). Design Retrospective cohort study. Patients 1026 pediatrics and women aged between 2 and 38 years who underwent OTC and OTT between January 2002 to January 2022. Results Of the 1026 patients, 238 (22.8%) were pediatrics (≤ 17 years, Group 1) and 788 (77.2%) were adult women (range 18-38 years, Group 2). In Group 1, 184 (77.3%) patients had malignant diseases and 54 (22.7%) had non-malignant diseases. In Group 2, 746 (94.7%) patients had malignant diseases and 42 (5.3%) had non-malignant diseases. No real complications were observed during surgery. In all the samples analyzed most of the follicles were in the resting stage, while only a few follicles were growing. In both fresh and thawed samples, follicular density was higher in Group 1 than in Group 2 (p < 0.01). Regardless of age, good preservation of follicles and stroma was observed in fresh and thawed ovarian tissue by histological and immunohistochemical analyses (estrogen and progesterone receptors; Ki67 and Bcl2 markers; TUNEL). To date, out of 1026 total women, 812 (79.1%) had their tissue stored. Sixty-eight (6.6%) patients died from their primary disease. Twenty-four (2.3%) women performed 33 OTTs between December 2011 and January 2022. Restoration of menstruation was observed in 15 out of 17 menopausal women. Six pregnancies were achieved, two hesitated in abortion and four in the birth of healthy babies. Conclusion OTC is the only fertility preservation technique applicable in pre-pubertal/pediatrics and in adult patients when stimulation for oocytes/embryos cryopreservation is not possible. The reported data can help future patients and physicians in their discussions and decisions about the need and possibilities of preserving ovarian function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Fabbri
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Rossella Vicenti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Valentina Magnani
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberto Paradisi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Mario Lima
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Pediatric Surgery Department, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lucia De Meis
- Division of Gynaecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefania Rossi
- Division of Gynaecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Diego Raimondo
- Division of Gynaecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paolo Casadio
- Division of Gynaecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefano Venturoli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Michela Maffi
- Pediatric Surgery Department, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Renato Seracchioli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Division of Gynaecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Man L, Lustgarten Guahmich N, Kallinos E, Park L, Bodine R, Zaninovic N, Schattman G, Rosenwaks Z, James D. Xenograft model of heterotopic transplantation of human ovarian cortical tissue and its clinical relevance. Reproduction 2022; 165:31-47. [PMID: 36194429 PMCID: PMC9782463 DOI: 10.1530/rep-22-0114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
In brief Xenografts of human ovarian cortical tissue provide a tractable model of heterotopic autotransplantation that is used for fertility preservation in patients undergoing ablative chemo/radiotherapy. This study describes the behavior of hundreds of xenografts to establish a framework for the clinical function of ovarian cortex following autotransplantation over short- and long-term intervals. Abstract More than 200 live births have been achieved using autotransplantation of cryopreserved ovarian cortical fragments, yet challenges remain to be addressed. Ischemia of grafted tissue undermines viability and longevity, typically requiring transplantation of multiple cortical pieces; and the dynamics of recruitment within a graft and the influence of parameters like size and patient age at the time of cryopreservation are not well-defined. Here, we describe results from a series of experiments in which we xenografted frozen/thawed human ovarian tissue (n = 440) from 28 girls and women (age range 32 weeks gestational age to 46 years, median 24.3 ± 4.6). Xenografts were recovered across a broad range of intervals (1-52 weeks post-transplantation) and examined histologically to quantify follicle density and distribution. The number of antral follicles in xenografted cortical fragments correlated positively with the total follicle number and was significantly reduced with increased patient age. Within xenografts, follicles were distributed in focal clusters, similar to the native ovary, but the presence of a leading antral follicle coincided with increased proliferation of surrounding follicles. These results underscore the importance of transplanting ovarian tissue with a high density of follicles and elucidate a potential paracrine influence of leading antral follicles on neighboring follicles of earlier stages. This temporal framework for interpreting the kinetics of follicle growth/mobilization may be useful in setting expectations and guiding the parameters of clinical autotransplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limor Man
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Nicole Lustgarten Guahmich
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Eleni Kallinos
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Laura Park
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Richard Bodine
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Nikica Zaninovic
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA,Tri-Institutional Stem Cell Derivation Laboratory, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Glenn Schattman
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Zev Rosenwaks
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Daylon James
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA,Tri-Institutional Stem Cell Derivation Laboratory, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA,Correspondence should be addressed D James;
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Cheng J, Ruan X, Li Y, Du J, Jin F, Gu M, Zhou Q, Xu X, Yang Y, Wang H, Mueck AO. Effects of hypoxia-preconditioned HucMSCs on neovascularization and follicle survival in frozen/thawed human ovarian cortex transplanted to immunodeficient mice. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:474. [PMID: 36104746 PMCID: PMC9476266 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-03167-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The massive loss of follicles in the early stage of ovarian tissue transplantation is considered a significant restriction to the efficacy of ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) and transplantation (OT). The use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) before transplantation of ovarian fragments shortened the hypoxic period and boosted neovascularization. Hypoxia-preconditioned MSCs can enhance the potential of angiogenesis. Can hypoxia-preconditioned human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell (HucMSCs) and ovarian tissue co-xenotransplantation improve more neovascularization and subsequently more follicle survival in human ovarian tissue? Methods Frozen-thawed cortical pieces from 4 patients were transplanted into the bilateral renal capsule of immune-deficient nude mice without HucMSCs or normoxia/hypoxia-preconditioned HucMSCs. Sixty-four mice were randomly distributed into 4 groups. In each group, the mice were euthanized for blood and/or graft retrieval on post-transplantation days 3 (n = 8) and 7 (n = 8), respectively. Non-grafted frozen-thawed ovarian fragment was taken for non-grafted control. Grafts were histologically processed and analysed for follicle density and atretic follicles by HE, neovascularization by CD34 and CD31 immunohistochemical staining, primordial follicle growth by Ki67 staining, and apoptosis of stromal cell and follicles by immunofluorescence using TUNEL. The ROS and TAC levels of grafted and non-grafted tissue were assessed. We evaluated the protein expression of HIF1α, VEGFA, pAkt, Akt, and GDF9 in grafted and non-grafted ovarian tissue. E2, Prog, AMH, and FSH levels in the plasma of mice were measured after 3 and 7 days of OT. Results Hypoxia-preconditioned HucMSCs positively protect the grafted ovarian tissue by significantly decreasing the apoptosis and increasing higher expression of CD31, CD34, and VEGFA for earlier angiogenesis. They are crucial to preserving the resting primordial follicle pool by modulation of follicle death. Conclusion This is the first study to demonstrate that co-transplantation of hypoxia-preconditioned HucMSC with ovarian tissue improved earlier vascularization of ovarian grafts in the early post-grafting period, which correlates with increased follicle survival and reduced apoptosis. The HIF1α/VEGFA signal pathways may play an important role in elucidating the mechanisms of action of hypoxia-preconditioned HucMSCs with regard to OT and clinical implementation.
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Transplantation of Refrozen Ovarian Cortical Strips Retrieved from a Cryopreserved Whole Ovary: Proof of Feasibility. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11174942. [PMID: 36078872 PMCID: PMC9456442 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11174942] [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: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We report successful clinical outcomes after transplantation of refrozen-rethawed cortical strips from a cryopreserved whole ovary in a patient diagnosed with stage IIIb rectal adenocarcinoma. Whole ovary cryopreservation was proposed as a fertility preservation strategy in 2006 prior to radiotherapy, chemotherapy and oncological surgery. To allow for minimal residual disease screening before ovarian reimplantation, the whole ovary was thawed and dissected into cortical strips. While awaiting the results, the majority of the cortical strips were refrozen. These refrozen-rethawed cortical strips were laparoscopically grafted to 2 sites: the previously irradiated pelvic cavity and the non-irradiated extrapelvic cavity. Ovarian function resumption was assessed by recovery of menses, hormone levels, ultrasound and oocyte pick-up following controlled ovarian stimulation (COS). Restoration of ovarian function occurred 6 months after reimplantation, with recovery of menses and estradiol secretion. A total of 12 cycles were followed by the IVF department. A second reimplantation was performed 1.5 years later, since the grafts were found to have stopped functioning for >3 consecutive months. Overall, 3 fertilizable oocytes were retrieved transabdominally from the extrapelvic graft following COS, yielding 2 embryos and culminating in one fresh embryo transfer, but no pregnancy. Concerning the reimplantation site, no ovarian activity was detected in the graft placed in the previously irradiated pelvic cavity. Indeed, only fibrotic-looking tissue was observed in the pelvic site at second laparoscopy 1.5 years later, while ovarian activity was noted in the extrapelvic graft, showing a large antral follicle. All in all, transplantation of refrozen-rethawed cortical strips from a cryopreserved whole ovary can lead to ovarian function resumption and embryo development if grafted to a non-irradiated field.
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Arapaki A, Christopoulos P, Kalampokas E, Triantafyllidou O, Matsas A, Vlahos NF. Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation in Children and Adolescents. CHILDREN 2022; 9:children9081256. [PMID: 36010146 PMCID: PMC9406615 DOI: 10.3390/children9081256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cancer during childhood and adolescence remains a major public health issue, affecting a significant portion of this age group. Although newer anti-cancer treatments have improved survival rates, this comes at a cost in terms of gonadotoxic effects. As a result, the preservation of fertility is important. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation, one of the newest methods, has some advantages, especially for prepubertal patients: no need for ovarian stimulation, thus, no further risk for estrogen-sensitive cancer types, and preservation of more and better-quality primordial follicles of the ovarian cortex. The most frequent indications include treatment with alkylating agents, ovarian-focused radiotherapy, leukemias, lymphomas, brain and neurological tumors, as well as Turner syndrome and benign hemoglobinopathies. An expected survival exceeding 5 years, the absence of systematic disease and an overall risk of premature ovarian insufficiency over 50% are among the criteria that need to be fulfilled in order for a patient to undertake this method. Orthotopic transplantation is more frequently used, since it can allow both live birth and the recovery of endocrine function. Reimplantation of malignant cells is always a major risk and should always be taken into consideration. Histological analysis, as well as immunohistochemical and molecular methods, are needed in order to improve the search for malignant cells before transplantation. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation appears to be a method with specific benefits, indications and risks which can be an important tool in terms of preserving fertility in younger women.
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Cacciottola L, Dolmans MM, Schattman GL. A synopsis of the 2021 International Society of Fertility Preservation bi-annual meeting. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:1727-1732. [PMID: 35849256 PMCID: PMC9428092 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02568-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
On November 19, 2021, the first virtual meeting of the International Society for Fertility Preservation (ISFP) took place. Eight experts in the field of reproductive medicine presented important updates on their research in the field of fertility preservation and reproductive surgery for absolute uterine factor infertility. Presentations included talks on ovarian stem cell therapy for premature ovarian insufficiency, practical aspects of oocyte vitrification, ovarian stimulation for patients with breast cancer, in vitro maturation of oocytes at the time of ovarian tissue harvesting, male fertility preservation, and uterine transplantation. These presentations are summarized below and can be viewed in their entirety at www.isfp-fertility.org.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Cacciottola
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale Et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Glenn L. Schattman
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY USA
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43
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Ataman LM, Laronda MM, Gowett M, Trotter K, Anvari H, Fei F, Ingram A, Minette M, Suebthawinkul C, Taghvaei Z, Torres-Vélez M, Velez K, Adiga SK, Anazodo A, Appiah L, Bourlon MT, Daniels N, Dolmans MM, Finlayson C, Gilchrist RB, Gomez-Lobo V, Greenblatt E, Halpern JA, Hutt K, Johnson EK, Kawamura K, Khrouf M, Kimelman D, Kristensen S, Mitchell RT, Moravek MB, Nahata L, Orwig KE, Pavone ME, Pépin D, Pesce R, Quinn GP, Rosen MP, Rowell E, Smith K, Venter C, Whiteside S, Xiao S, Zelinski M, Goldman KN, Woodruff TK, Duncan FE. A synopsis of global frontiers in fertility preservation. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:1693-1712. [PMID: 35870095 PMCID: PMC9307970 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02570-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Since 2007, the Oncofertility Consortium Annual Conference has brought together a diverse network of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and professional levels to disseminate emerging basic and clinical research findings in fertility preservation. This network also developed enduring educational materials to accelerate the pace and quality of field-wide scientific communication. Between 2007 and 2019, the Oncofertility Consortium Annual Conference was held as an in-person event in Chicago, IL. The conference attracted approximately 250 attendees each year representing 20 countries around the world. In 2020, however, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted this paradigm and precluded an in-person meeting. Nevertheless, there remained an undeniable demand for the oncofertility community to convene. To maintain the momentum of the field, the Oncofertility Consortium hosted a day-long virtual meeting on March 5, 2021, with the theme of "Oncofertility Around the Globe" to highlight the diversity of clinical care and translational research that is ongoing around the world in this discipline. This virtual meeting was hosted using the vFairs ® conference platform and allowed over 700 people to participate, many of whom were first-time conference attendees. The agenda featured concurrent sessions from presenters in six continents which provided attendees a complete overview of the field and furthered our mission to create a global community of oncofertility practice. This paper provides a synopsis of talks delivered at this event and highlights the new advances and frontiers in the fields of oncofertility and fertility preservation around the globe from clinical practice and patient-centered efforts to translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M Ataman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - M M Laronda
- Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - M Gowett
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - K Trotter
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - H Anvari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - F Fei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - A Ingram
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - M Minette
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - C Suebthawinkul
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Z Taghvaei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - M Torres-Vélez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - K Velez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - S K Adiga
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - A Anazodo
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Nelune Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Sydney, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - L Appiah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - M T Bourlon
- Hemato-Oncology Department, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas Y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - N Daniels
- The Oncology and Fertility Centres of Ekocorp, Eko Hospitals, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - M M Dolmans
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale Et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Av. Mounier 52, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Gynecology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Av. Hippocrate 10, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - C Finlayson
- Department of Pediatrics (Endocrinology), Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - R B Gilchrist
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - V Gomez-Lobo
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | - J A Halpern
- Department of Urology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - K Hutt
- Anatomy & Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - E K Johnson
- Department of Urology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Division of Urology, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - K Kawamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - M Khrouf
- FERTILLIA, Clinique la Rose, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - D Kimelman
- Centro de Esterilidad Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - S Kristensen
- Department of Fertility, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - R T Mitchell
- Department of Developmental Endocrinology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - M B Moravek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - L Nahata
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
- Endocrinology and Center for Biobehavioral Health, Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - K E Orwig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - M E Pavone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - D Pépin
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - R Pesce
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - G P Quinn
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Medical Ethics, Population Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - M P Rosen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - E Rowell
- Department of Surgery (Pediatric Surgery), Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - K Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - C Venter
- Vitalab, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - S Whiteside
- Fertility & Reproductive Health Program, Department of Hematology/Oncology/BMT, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - S Xiao
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - M Zelinski
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - K N Goldman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - T K Woodruff
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - F E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E. Superior Street, Lurie 7-117, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
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Cooper LJ, Emery BR, Aston K, Fair D, Rosen MP, Johnstone E, Letourneau JM. Fertility preservation practices for female oncofertility differ significantly across the USA: results of a survey of SREI members. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:1749-1757. [PMID: 35870098 PMCID: PMC9428095 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02567-0] [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: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The field of oncofertility has maintained an important focus on improving access, yet standardized practices are lacking. To assess how female cancer patients are provided oncofertility care, we sought to determine provider-level differences and whether there are physician or practice characteristics that predict these variations. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was sent to SREI members. The survey included fifteen questions about physician practice characteristics and oncofertility cryopreservation protocols. Topics included ovarian stimulation protocols, fertilization techniques, stage of embryo cryopreservation, routine use of pre-implantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A), and ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC). Statistical analyses assessed whether practice setting, geographic region, time in practice, and mandatory state insurance coverage had effects on cryopreservation protocols. RESULTS A total of 141 (17%) from diverse REI practice backgrounds completed the survey. The median number of new female oncofertility consults per year was 30 (range 1 to 300). Providers in academic settings treated more patients (median 40 vs. 15, p < 0.001). Providers in academic settings more often use gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (85% vs. 52%, p < 0.001) and perform OTC (41% vs. 4%, p < 0.001). Providers in academic practices were less likely to perform intracytoplasmic sperm injection in every cycle (37% vs. 55%, p = 0.032) and less likely to usually advise PGT-A (21% vs. 36%, p = 0.001). Mandated state insurance coverage had no effect on oncofertility practices. CONCLUSION Oncofertility practices vary among providers. Factors such as practice setting and region may affect the services provided. We do not yet know the best practices in oncofertility patients, and future research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah J. Cooper
- grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah Health, 675 Arapeen Drive, Suite 205, Salt Lake City, UT 84105 USA
| | - Benjamin R. Emery
- grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, USA
| | - Kenneth Aston
- grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, USA
| | - Douglas Fair
- grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah Health, 675 Arapeen Drive, Suite 205, Salt Lake City, UT 84105 USA
| | - Mitchell P. Rosen
- grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, USA
| | - Erica Johnstone
- grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah Health, 675 Arapeen Drive, Suite 205, Salt Lake City, UT 84105 USA
| | - Joseph M. Letourneau
- grid.223827.e0000 0001 2193 0096Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah Health, 675 Arapeen Drive, Suite 205, Salt Lake City, UT 84105 USA
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45
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Kasaven LS, Saso S, Getreu N, O'Neill H, Bracewell-Milnes T, Shakir F, Yazbek J, Thum MY, Nicopoullos J, Ben Nagi J, Hardiman P, Diaz-Garcia C, Jones BP. Age-related fertility decline: is there a role for elective ovarian tissue cryopreservation? Hum Reprod 2022; 37:1970-1979. [PMID: 35734904 PMCID: PMC9433842 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related fertility decline (ARFD) is a prevalent concern amongst western cultures due to the increasing age of first-time motherhood. Elective oocyte and embryo cryopreservation remain the most established methods of fertility preservation, providing women the opportunity of reproductive autonomy to preserve their fertility and extend their childbearing years to prevent involuntary childlessness. Whilst ovarian cortex cryopreservation has been used to preserve reproductive potential in women for medical reasons, such as in pre- or peripubertal girls undergoing gonadotoxic chemotherapy, it has not yet been considered in the context of ARFD. As artificial reproductive technology (ART) and surgical methods of fertility preservation continue to evolve, it is a judicious time to review current evidence and consider alternative options for women wishing to delay their fertility. This article critically appraises elective oocyte cryopreservation as an option for women who use it to mitigate the risk of ARFD and introduces the prospect of elective ovarian cortex cryopreservation as an alternative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorraine S Kasaven
- West London Gynaecological Cancer Centre, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, UK.,Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Cutrale Perioperative and Ageing Group, Sir Michael Uren Hub, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Srdjan Saso
- West London Gynaecological Cancer Centre, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, UK.,Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Natalie Getreu
- Translational Ovarian Physiology and Pathophysiology, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Helen O'Neill
- Genome Editing and Reproductive Genetics Group, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Fevzi Shakir
- Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Joseph Yazbek
- West London Gynaecological Cancer Centre, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Meen-Yau Thum
- Lister Fertility Clinic, The Lister Hospital, London, UK
| | | | - Jara Ben Nagi
- Centre for Reproductive and Genetic Health, London, UK
| | | | - Cesar Diaz-Garcia
- IVI London, IVIRMA Global, London, UK.,EGA Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Benjamin P Jones
- West London Gynaecological Cancer Centre, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College NHS Trust, London, UK.,Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
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46
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Leflon M, Rives-Feraille A, Letailleur M, Petrovic CH, Martin B, Marpeau L, Jardin F, Aziz M, Stamatoulas-Bastard A, Dumont L, Rondanino C, Rives N. Experience, gynaecological and reproductive health follow up of young adult women who have undergone ovarian tissue cryopreservation. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:913-922. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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47
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Di Tucci C, Galati G, Mattei G, Chinè A, Fracassi A, Muzii L. Fertility after Cancer: Risks and Successes. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14102500. [PMID: 35626104 PMCID: PMC9139810 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14102500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Approximately one million new cases of cancer are diagnosed in women of reproductive age every year. In the last few decades, advances in early diagnosis and treatment have improved the survival rate. However, the adverse effects of anticancer therapy on the ovaries and uterus have a significant impact on future fertility and may affect the quality of life of cancer survivors. Unfortunately, evidence about the trend of ovarian reserve loss over time is insufficient for predicting the duration of the fertile period. Currently, impaired fertility in cancer survivors is a growing issue that is complicated by an increasing number of women delaying childbearing. This review focuses on the detrimental effects of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery on reproductive functions and describes the mechanisms causing reduced fertility in cancer survivors. Moreover, in this review, the available fertility preservation strategies to guarantee the chance of motherhood in cancer survivors are illustrated. Abstract The incidence of cancer in reproductive-aged women is 7%, but, despite the increased number of cancer cases, advances in early diagnosis and treatment have raised the survival rate. Furthermore, in the last four decades, there has been a rising trend of delaying childbearing. There has been an increasing number of couples referred to Reproductive Medicine Centers for infertility problems after one partner has been treated for cancer. In these cases, the main cause of reduced fertility derives from treatments. In this review, we describe the effects and the risks of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery in women with cancer, and we will focus on available fertility preservation techniques and their efficacy in terms of success in pregnancy and live birth rates.
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Khattak H, Malhas R, Craciunas L, Afifi Y, Amorim CA, Fishel S, Silber S, Gook D, Demeestere I, Bystrova O, Lisyanskaya A, Manikhas G, Lotz L, Dittrich R, Colmorn LB, Macklon KT, Hjorth IMD, Kristensen SG, Gallos I, Coomarasamy A. Fresh and cryopreserved ovarian tissue transplantation for preserving reproductive and endocrine function: a systematic review and individual patient data meta-analysis. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 28:400-416. [PMID: 35199164 PMCID: PMC9733829 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ovarian tissue cryopreservation involves freezing and storing of surgically retrieved ovarian tissue in liquid or vapour nitrogen below -190°C. The tissue can be thawed and transplanted back with the aim of restoring fertility or ovarian endocrine function. The techniques for human ovarian tissue freezing and transplantation have evolved over the last 20 years, particularly in the context of fertility preservation in pre-pubertal cancer patients. Fresh ovarian tissue transplantation, using an autograft or donor tissue, is a more recent development; it has the potential to preserve fertility and hormonal function in women who have their ovaries removed for benign gynaecological conditions. The techniques of ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation have progressed rapidly since inception; however, the evidence on the success of this intervention is largely based on case reports and case series. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The aim of this study was to systematically review the current evidence by incorporating study-level and individual patient-level meta-analyses of women who received ovarian transplants, including frozen-thawed transplant, fresh or donor graft. SEARCH METHODS The review protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42018115233). A comprehensive literature search was performed using MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from database inception to October 2020. Authors were also contacted for individual patient data if relevant outcomes were not reported in the published manuscripts. Meta-analysis was performed using inverse-variance weighting to calculate summary estimates using a fixed-effects model. OUTCOMES The review included 87 studies (735 women). Twenty studies reported on ≥5 cases of ovarian transplants and were included in the meta-analysis (568 women). Fertility outcomes included pregnancy, live birth and miscarriage rates, and endocrine outcomes included oestrogen, FSH and LH levels. The pooled rates were 37% (95% CI: 32-43%) for pregnancy, 28% (95% CI: 24-34%) for live birth and 37% (95% CI: 30-46%) for miscarriage following frozen ovarian tissue transplantation. Pooled mean for pre-transplant oestrogen was 101.6 pmol/l (95% CI: 47.9-155.3), which increased post-transplant to 522.4 pmol/l (95% CI: 315.4-729; mean difference: 228.24; 95% CI: 180.5-276). Pooled mean of pre-transplant FSH was 66.4 IU/l (95% CI: 52.8-84), which decreased post-transplant to 14.1 IU/l (95% CI: 10.9-17.3; mean difference 61.8; 95% CI: 57-66.6). The median time to return of FSH to a value <25 IU/l was 19 weeks (interquartile range: 15-26 weeks; range: 0.4-208 weeks). The median duration of graft function was 2.5 years (interquartile range: 1.4-3.4 years; range: 0.7-5 years). The analysis demonstrated that ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation could restore reproductive and hormonal functions in women. Further studies with larger samples of well-characterized populations are required to define the optimal retrieval, cryopreservation and transplantation processes. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation may not only be effective in restoring fertility but also the return of reproductive endocrine function. Although this technology was developed as a fertility preservation option, it may have the scope to be considered for endocrine function preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hajra Khattak
- Tommy’s National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and
Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Rosamund Malhas
- Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust,
Birmingham, UK
| | - Laurentiu Craciunas
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon
Tyne, UK
| | - Yousri Afifi
- Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust,
Birmingham, UK
| | - Christiani A Amorim
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et
Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Simon Fishel
- CARE Fertility Group, Nottingham, UK
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores
University, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Debra Gook
- Reproductive Services/Melbourne IVF, The Royal Women’s Hospital,
Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Isabelle Demeestere
- Research Laboratory on Human Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université
Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Olga Bystrova
- AVA-PETER Fertility Clinic, Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Alla Lisyanskaya
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Saint-Petersburg City Oncology
Clinic, Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Georgy Manikhas
- Department of Oncology of the First Pavlov State Medical University of
Saint-Petersburg, Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Laura Lotz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erlangen University Hospital,
Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ralf Dittrich
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erlangen University Hospital,
Friedrich Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Lotte Berdiin Colmorn
- The Fertility Clinic, University Hospital of Copenhagen,
Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kirsten Tryde Macklon
- The Fertility Clinic, University Hospital of Copenhagen,
Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Stine Gry Kristensen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women,
Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen,
Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ioannis Gallos
- Tommy’s National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and
Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Arri Coomarasamy
- Tommy’s National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and
Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Eijkenboom L, Saedt E, Zietse C, Braat D, Beerendonk C, Peek R. Strategies to safely use cryopreserved ovarian tissue to restore fertility after cancer: A systematic review. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:763-778. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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50
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Ní Dhonnabháin B, Elfaki N, Fraser K, Petrie A, Jones BP, Saso S, Hardiman PJ, Getreu N. A comparison of fertility preservation outcomes in patients who froze oocytes, embryos, or ovarian tissue for medically indicated circumstances: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Fertil Steril 2022; 117:1266-1276. [PMID: 35459522 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare obstetric outcomes in patients cryopreserving reproductive cells or tissues before gonadotoxic therapy. DESIGN A literature search was conducted following PRISMA guidelines on Embase, Medline, and Web of Science. Studies reporting obstetric outcomes in cancer patients who completed cryopreservation of oocyte, embryo, or ovarian tissue were included. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENT(S) Cancer patients attempting pregnancy using cryopreserved cells or tissues frozen before cancer therapy. INTERVENTION(S) Oocyte, embryo, or ovarian tissue cryopreservation for fertility preservation in cancer. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The total numbers of clinical pregnancies, live births, and miscarriages in women attempting pregnancy using cryopreserved reproductive cells or tissues were calculated. A meta-analysis determined the effect size of each intervention. RESULT(S) The search returned 4,038 unique entries. Thirty-eight eligible studies were analyzed. The clinical pregnancy rates were 34.9%, 49.0%, and 43.8% for oocyte, embryo, and ovarian tissue cryopreservation, respectively. No significant differences were found among groups. The live birth rates were 25.8%, 35.3%, and 32.3% for oocyte, embryo, and ovarian tissue cryopreservation, respectively, with no significant differences among groups. The miscarriage rates were 9.2%, 16.9%, and 7.5% for oocyte, embryo, and ovarian tissue cryopreservation, respectively. Significantly fewer miscarriages occurred with ovarian tissue cryopreservation than with embryo cryopreservation. CONCLUSION(S) This enquiry is required to counsel cancer patients wishing to preserve fertility. Although the limitations of this study include heterogeneity, lack of quality studies, and low utilization rates, it serves as a starting point for comparison of reproductive and obstetric outcomes in patients returning for family-planning after gonadotoxic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bríd Ní Dhonnabháin
- Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nagla Elfaki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College London Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kyra Fraser
- Department of Surgery, The Royal Free Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Aviva Petrie
- Biostatistics Unit, Eastman Dental Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin P Jones
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Srdjan Saso
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul J Hardiman
- Department of Gynaecology, The Royal Free Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Natalie Getreu
- Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom.
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