1
|
Moradkhani A, Azami M, Assadi S, Ghaderi M, Azarnezhad A, Moradi Y. Association of vitamin D receptor genetic polymorphisms with the risk of infertility: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:398. [PMID: 38816754 PMCID: PMC11138068 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-024-06590-0] [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: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The causes of infertility have remained an important challenge. The relationship between VDR gene polymorphisms and infertility has been reported, with controversial findings. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE We aimed to determine this relationship by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis. SEARCH METHODS The study was started with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) declaration and the final draft was registered as a protocol in PROSPERO (ID: CRD42023416535). The international electronic databases including PubMed (Medline), Scopus, Web of Sciences, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINHAL) were searched until January 30, 2023, by using appropriate keywords. The quality of the final studies was assessed using the NOS Checklist for case-control studies. The odds ratios (ORs) for each of the genetic models were pooled, and a subgroup analysis based on geographical region and types of infertility was carried out by the MetaGenyo online tool. OUTCOMES Case-control studies including 18 and 2 studies about infertility in women and men, respectively, and 4 miscarriage studies were entered into the meta-analysis. The VDR gene TaqI polymorphism was associated with infertility susceptibility in women in the allele contrast [OR = 1.2065, 95% CI (1.0846-1.3421); P = 0.0005], Recessive model [OR = 1.3836, 95% CI (1.1197-1.7096); P = 0.002], Dominant model [OR = 1.2146, 95% CI (0.0484-1.4072); P = 0.009], Homozygote [OR = 1.4596, 95% CI (1.1627-1.8325); P = 0.001], and TT vs. Tt [OR = 1.2853, 95% CI (1.0249-1.6117); P = 0.029. ApaI and FokI gene polymorphisms were found to be significantly protective SNPs against women and men infertility in the Dominant model [OR = 0.8379, 95% CI (0.7039- 0.9975); P = 0.046] and Recessive model [OR = 0.421, 95% CI (0.1821-0.9767); P = 0.043], respectively. Sub-group meta-analysis showed a protection association of ApaI in dominant [OR = 0.7738, 95% CI = 0.6249-0.9580; P = 0.018] and AA vs. aa [OR = 0.7404, 95 CI% (0.5860-0.9353) P = 0.011725] models in PCOS subgroup, however, a negative association with idiopathic infertility was found in AA vs. Aa [OR = 1.7063, 95% CI (1.1039-2.6375); P = 0.016187] and Aa vs. aa [OR = 0.6069, 95% CI (0.3761-0.9792); P = 0.040754]. TaqI SNP was significantly associated with infertility in the African population and BsmI was associated with the disease mostly in the Asian population. CONCLUSION This meta-analysis showed that the TaqI polymorphism may be linked to women's infertility susceptibility. However, ApaI and FokI might be the protective SNPs against infertility in Women and men, respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asra Moradkhani
- Student of the Research Committee, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Mobin Azami
- Student of the Research Committee, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Srwa Assadi
- Student of the Research Committee, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Mobin Ghaderi
- Student of the Research Committee, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Asaad Azarnezhad
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran.
- Liver and Digestive Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran.
| | - Yousef Moradi
- Social Determinants of the Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ashraf M, Khan HN, Ibrahim R, Shahid M, Khan S, Fatima A, Ullah S, Rehman R. Genetic association of vitamin D receptor gene with female infertility. NUCLEOSIDES, NUCLEOTIDES & NUCLEIC ACIDS 2023; 43:116-133. [PMID: 37496429 DOI: 10.1080/15257770.2023.2236167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility is defined as failure to achieve a clinical pregnancy after 12 months of unprotected intercourse. It affects 15% of couples globally and 22% of couples within Pakistan. Female infertility can be caused by numerous genetic or environmental factors including hormone imbalances and exposure to chemicals or radiation. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among the adult population was reported to be 14-59% with a higher prevalence in Asian countries. Furthermore, the expression of Vitamin D receptor (VDR) can play a vital role in the reproductive organs of females. Hence, the aim of our present study was to check the association of VDR polymorphisms with infertile females. For this purpose, blood samples were collected for genotyping of four known VDR mutations [FokI (rs2228570), TaqI (rs731236), ApaI (rs7975232), and BsmI (rs1544410)] via PCR-based RFLP assay. RESULTS Genotyping indicated that FokI, TaqI, and ApaI are associated with infertility (p = 0.004*, p = 0.013*, and p = 0.033*, respectively). However, BsmI did not show any significance. Multinomial regression analysis indicated that FokI heterozygous genotypes increase the risk of infertility by 2.5 times (hetero: OR = 2.5, 95%, p = 0.001*) as compared to wild type. Heterozygous genotypes of TaqI and ApaI were found to play a protective role and reduce the risk of infertility by 58 and 52%, respectively [TaqI: OR = 0.42, 95%, p = 0.004*, ApaI: OR = 0.48, 95%, p = 0.01*, respectively] as compared to wild type. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was also performed for allelic data as well. CONCLUSION Thus, it could be summarized that among the studied polymorphisms of VDR, FokI SNP greatly increased the risk of infertility, while TaqI and ApaI genotypes protect from infertility. However, BsmI does not influence the risk of infertility in Pakistani females.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mussarat Ashraf
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Haq Nawaz Khan
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Rabab Ibrahim
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Maheen Shahid
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sher Khan
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Ambrin Fatima
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Saif Ullah
- University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Rehana Rehman
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Beeram H, Siddamalla S, Tumu VR, KV V, Vidala A, Deenadayal M, Sisinthy S, Bhanoori M. Genetic Variants of VDR and PGC-1α Are Not Associated with the Risk of Endometriosis in Indian Women. DNA Cell Biol 2022; 41:987-995. [DOI: 10.1089/dna.2022.0350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Himabindu Beeram
- Department of Biochemistry, Osmania University, Hyderabad, India
| | | | | | - Veena KV
- Department of Biochemistry, Osmania University, Hyderabad, India
| | - Akanksha Vidala
- Department of Biochemistry, Osmania University, Hyderabad, India
| | - Mamata Deenadayal
- Infertility Institute and Research Centre (IIRC), Secunderabad, India
| | - Shivaji Sisinthy
- Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad, India
- Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, LV Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
| | - Manjula Bhanoori
- Department of Biochemistry, Osmania University, Hyderabad, India
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Rizk Saed HA, Mohamed Ibrahim HM, Elgabry MA, El-khodery SA. Expression and single nucleotide polymorphisms of vitamin D receptor gene in cows with puerperal metritis in Egypt. Theriogenology 2022; 186:108-113. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
|
5
|
Ahmed S, Siddiqui A, Qureshi A, Hussain SS, Siddiqui I, Imran U. A Cross-Sectional Evaluation of Vitamin D Status and Ovarian Reserve Markers in Subfertile Women: A Single-Center Experience From Pakistan. Cureus 2022; 14:e21757. [PMID: 35251828 PMCID: PMC8889504 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.21757] [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] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives This study was conceived with the objective of assessing the correlation between ovarian reserve markers and vitamin D deficiency (VDD) in a selected group of Pakistani subfertile women presenting at a specialized subfertility treatment centre. The measurements of antral follicle count (AFC), serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and serum vitamin D (VD) levels were the main tools used for the assessment of ovarian reserve. Materials and methods All female patients aged 18 to 45 years presenting with primary and/or secondary subfertility at the Australian Concept Medical Centre in Karachi, Pakistan from August 2016 to July 2021 were included in the study. The data of all eligible patients were recorded in the pre-defined Performa designed for this study. The Kruskal-Wallis test was applied to report the distribution of the data. The correlation between the categorical variables (25-hydroxyvitamin D [25-OHD] levels with AFC and AMH) was assessed using the chi-square test and Spearman correlation. The comparison was based on vitamin D levels grouped into three categories: deficiency (<20 ng/ml), insufficiency (21-29 ng/ml), and sufficiency (>30 ng/ml). Results One hundred ninety-nine cases were evaluated for AFC and hormone analysis. The mean age and BMI were 32.87±5.49 years and 28.27±4.97 kg/m2.VDD was noted in 127 (68.4%) cases. No significant difference was noted across BMI, age, duration of subfertility, AMH, and FSH across the VD categories. Moreover, a poor correlation was noted between VD, AMH and FSH on the scatter plot, between VD and FSH (r = -0.003, p = 0.966) and between VD and AMH (r = -0.068, p = 0.342), respectively. Conclusions This study showed a high frequency of VDD in Pakistani subfertile women, from a specialized subfertility center in the largest metropolis in the country. However, a statistically significant association was not found between the markers of ovarian reserve and VD, showing no ethnic differences in the native Pakistani population. Hence, VD supplementation is unlikely to have an impact on correcting the ovarian reserve status in subfertile women in Pakistan. However, this is a potential area of interest, and evaluation of other indices of reproduction/ovarian reserve and the effect of confounders is required to test this hypothesis longitudinally.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sibtain Ahmed
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Aga Khan University, Karachi, PAK
| | | | - Alinah Qureshi
- Student Life Science Gateway, Mc Master University, Ontario, CAN
| | - Syed Sajjad Hussain
- Head Research and Development, Australian Concept Medical Center, Karachi, PAK
| | - Imran Siddiqui
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Aga Khan University, Karachi, PAK
| | - Uzma Imran
- Gynecology and Obstetrics, Australian Concept Medical Centre, Karachi, PAK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Karimi E, Arab A, Rafiee M, Amani R. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the association between vitamin D and ovarian reserve. Sci Rep 2021; 11:16005. [PMID: 34362981 PMCID: PMC8346573 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-95481-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
It is hypothesized that vitamin D deficiency could be related to ovarian reserve. This systematic review and meta-analysis was undertaken to analyze the possible association between vitamin D and ovarian reserve among adolescent and adult women. All eligible studies identified through the ISI Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus were included up to May 2021. A random-effects meta-analysis model was implemented and a weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. A total of 38 papers covering 8608 individuals were enrolled in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Antral follicle count (AFC) was significantly lower among Asians (WMD - 0.65; 95% CI - 1.28 to - 0.01; P = 0.04; I2 = 0.0%) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were higher in non-Asians (WMD 2.16 IU/L; 95% CI 0.20 to 4.12; P = 0.031; I2 = 9.3%) with vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency. Also, there was a negative correlation between vitamin D and LH/FSH ratio in women with normal body mass index (BMI) (Fisher's Z: - 0.18; 95% CI - 0.37 to - 0.008; P = 0.041; I2 = 51.5%). Although there were no significant associations between serum vitamin D levels and any of the intended ovarian reserve markers, subgroup analyses have found significant findings regarding AFC, LH, and LH/FSH ratio. In order to understand the underlying mechanisms of vitamin D in female reproduction, further attempts are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elham Karimi
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Food Security Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Research Development Center, Arash Women's Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arman Arab
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Food Security Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Rafiee
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Food Security Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Reza Amani
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Food Security Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Jafari M, Khodaverdi S, Sadri M, Moradi Z, Mohammadi T, Heidari S, Akhavan Sales Z, Delbandi AA. Association Between Vitamin D Receptor (VDR) and Vitamin D Binding Protein (VDBP) Genes Polymorphisms to Endometriosis Susceptibility in Iranian Women. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:3491-3497. [PMID: 33948927 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00598-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that has been reported to be associated with immune system dysfunction. On the other hand, the effect of Vitamin D as an immune modulator and its relation with several autoimmune and inflammatory diseases has been previously investigated. Moreover, several studies have reported the polymorphisms of VDR and VDBP genes can change the functions of these molecules. Therefore, these polymorphisms may be influential on endometriosis pathogenesis. In this study, we aimed at evaluating the association between VDR gene (FokI (F/f), BsmI (B/b), ApaI (A/a), TaqI (T/t)), and VDBP gene (GC*1S, GC*1F, and GC*2) polymorphisms with endometriosis in Iranian women population. This case-control study was performed on 120 women with endometriosis and 110 healthy women. ARMS-PCR and PCR-RFLP methods were used to inspect polymorphisms in VDR and VDBP genes, respectively. Based on the results, there was no statistically significant difference between the cases with endometriosis and control subjects in terms of genotypes and allele frequencies of VDR and VDBP gene polymorphisms. These data suggest that VDR and VDBP gene polymorphisms may have no role in endometriosis susceptibility in Iranian women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Jafari
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Gerash University of Medical Sciences, Gerash, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sepideh Khodaverdi
- Endometriosis Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Sadri
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Moradi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tahereh Mohammadi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sahel Heidari
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zhima Akhavan Sales
- Department of immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Ali-Akbar Delbandi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. .,Immunology Research Center (IRC), Institute of Immunology and Infectious disease, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kalaitzopoulos DR, Lempesis IG, Athanasaki F, Schizas D, Samartzis EP, Kolibianakis EM, Goulis DG. Association between vitamin D and endometriosis: a systematic review. Hormones (Athens) 2020; 19:109-121. [PMID: 31863346 DOI: 10.1007/s42000-019-00166-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is one of the most common gynecological diseases of reproductive age, with a prevalence of 5-10% and grave consequences for quality of life and fertility. Vitamin D (vit D), a classic regulator of plasma calcium concentration and skeleton mineralization, is also an effective modulator of the immune system. Several studies suggest that immunologic properties attributed to vit D along with vit D receptor (VDR) expression in reproductive tissues may be involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. OBJECTIVE To systematically review the literature for the association between components of vit D metabolism and endometriosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic review of the literature published in the Medline and Cochrane Central databases was conducted for original research articles on humans, published in any language. RESULTS Twenty-one studies were included in the systematic review. Among them, 12 examined the relationship of endometriosis with vit D metabolites, eight with vit D-binding protein (VDBP), three with VDR polymorphisms, and two with vit D regulatory enzymes. There are discrepancies between the outcomes of the available literature publications. CONCLUSIONS This is a systematic attempt to collect, evaluate, and present the known data on the association between vit D and endometriosis. Given the heterogeneity and the diversity of the present studies, more research is required to elucidate the association between vit D and endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Rafail Kalaitzopoulos
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Cantonal Hospital Schaffhausen, Geissbergstrasse 81, 8208, Schaffhausen, Switzerland.
- Society of Junior Doctors, Athens, Greece.
| | - Ioannis G Lempesis
- Society of Junior Doctors, Athens, Greece
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Dimitrios Schizas
- First Department of Surgery, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laikon General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Efstratios M Kolibianakis
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitrios G Goulis
- Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Giampaolino P, Della Corte L, Foreste V, Bifulco G. Is there a Relationship Between Vitamin D and Endometriosis? An Overview of the Literature. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 25:2421-2427. [PMID: 31333100 DOI: 10.2174/1381612825666190722095401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vitamin D is involved in the physiological functions of several tissues, however, its deficiency may contribute to the development of various disorders. Recent research has been focusing on the role of vitamin D in the pathogenesis of endometriosis based on the evidence of the presence of vitamin D receptor and the enzymes required for vitamin D synthesis in the ectopic endometrium. Endometriosis, defined as the presence of endometrial glands and stroma in ectopic locations, is considered an estrogen-dependent disease and Vitamin D seems to have a role in modulation of the inflammatory state and proliferation of endometriotic cells. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to review the available literature regarding the relationship between vitamin D and endometriosis as well as the effects of vitamin D supplementation. METHODS A search on PubMed database has been performed. RESULTS The relationship between endometriosis and Vitamin D has been analyzed through the evaluation of vitamin D serum level, the polymorphism of vitamin D receptor and the role of vitamin D-binding protein in patient with endometriosis. The possible role of Vitamin D in the endometriosis therapy has also been investigated, in particular, the effect of vitamin D on pain relief, on endometriotic lesion in vitro and in rat models and in addition to a future target immunotherapy. CONCLUSION Although promising, the data analyzed are not sufficient to evidence a cause-effect relationship between VD status and endometriosis, therefore further studies are needed in order to better clarify the association between vitamin D and endometriosis, especially in the context of the possibility of new treatment options.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Luigi Della Corte
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Virginia Foreste
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bifulco
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Chen Y, Zhi X. Roles of Vitamin D in Reproductive Systems and Assisted Reproductive Technology. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5739616. [PMID: 32067036 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Vitamin D, an essential steroid hormone in the human body, plays an important role in not only the regulation of calcium and phosphorus metabolism, but also in various physiological processes, such as cell differentiation and apoptosis, inflammation, and insulin resistance. Vitamin D receptors are widely distributed in male and female reproductive systems, suggesting that vitamin D is essential for fertility. Because vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent around the world, this review aims to discuss the potential functions of vitamin D in male and female reproductive systems and the associations between vitamin D and assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes. Vitamin D is involved in many physiological reproductive processes, including steroidogenesis, spermatogenesis, and acrosome reaction. It is correlated with sperm quality, ovarian reserve, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and endometriosis, among others. Controversial clinical findings on vitamin D levels and ART outcomes were revealed in this review, and demonstrations of efficacy for human fertility in randomized controlled trials of vitamin D supplementation are notably lacking. Thus, further studies are highly required involving molecular mechanisms among different species and human populations, as well as randomized controlled trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yilu Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Peking University, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Xu Zhi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Peking University, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Alavi N, Ebrahimi M, Akbari-Asbagh F. The effect of vitamin D status on ovarian reserve markers in infertile women: A prospective cross-sectional study. Int J Reprod Biomed 2020; 18:85-92. [PMID: 32259002 PMCID: PMC7097167 DOI: 10.18502/ijrm.v18i2.6501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Vitamin D deficiency and infertility are two important health problems in Iran. Some studies suggest that vitamin D may influence Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and antral follicle count (AFC) as an ovarian reserve. Objective The present study aimed to investigate the impact of vitamin D on AMH serum concentrations/AFC. Materials and Methods Three hundred and five infertile women referred to the IVF Unit of Yas hospital, between July and December 2017, were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. The demographic characteristics of the participants, as well as the serum levels of vitamin D, AMH, and ultrasonic examination of AFC were recorded. Results Finally, 287 infertile women were included in the analysis with a mean age of 29.95 ± 4.73 yr (18-45 yr) and a mean Body mass indexof 25.11 ± 4.41 kg/m 2 . The median AMH and vitamin D levels were 3.20 and 22.82 ng/ml, respectively. Considering the cut-off level of 20 ng/ml, 58.7% were vitamin D deficient. Regression analysis showed no association between AMH and vitamin D levels (p = 0.161), even after adjusting for baseline variables (p = 0.182). A total of 120 patients had an AFC < 6 and 164 ≥ 6, which was not statistically different between the groups with normal level or deficient vitamin D (p = 0.133). Conclusion The present cross-sectional study showed no significant association between serum levels of vitamin D and AMH or AFC in infertile women, even after adjusting for baseline variables.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nazanin Alavi
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Ward, Yas Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahbod Ebrahimi
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Ward, Yas Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Firoozeh Akbari-Asbagh
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Ward, Yas Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Genetic, environmental and biomarker considerations delineating the regulatory effects of vitamin D on central nervous system function. Br J Nutr 2020; 123:41-58. [PMID: 31640823 DOI: 10.1017/s000711451900268x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Studies show that vitamin D (vit-D) (25(OH)D), the bioactive metabolite (1,25(OH)2D3) and vit-D receptors (vit-D receptor; protein disulphide isomerase, family A member 3) are expressed throughout the brain, particularly in regions pivotal to learning and memory. This has led to the paradigm that avoiding vit-D deficiency is important to preserve cognitive function. However, presently, it is not clear if the common clinical measure of serum 25(OH)D serves as a robust surrogate marker for central nervous system (CNS) homeostasis or function. Indeed, recent studies report CNS biosynthesis of endogenous 25(OH)D, the CNS expression of the CYP group of enzymes which catalyse conversion to 1,25(OH)2D3 and thereafter, deactivation. Moreover, in the periphery, there is significant ethnic/genetic heterogeneity in vit-D conversion to 1,25(OH)2D3 and there is a paucity of studies which have actually investigated vit-D kinetics across the cerebrovasculature. Compared with peripheral organs, the CNS also has differential expression of receptors that trigger cellular response to 1,25(OH)2D3 metabolites. To holistically consider the putative association of peripheral (blood) abundance of 25(OH)D on cognitive function, herein, we have reviewed population and genetic studies, pre-clinical and clinical intervention studies and moreover have considered potential confounders of vit-D analysis.
Collapse
|
13
|
Fichera M, Török P, Tesarik J, Della Corte L, Rizzo G, Garzon S, Carlea A, Di Angelo Antonio S, Zito G, Panella MM. Vitamin D, reproductive disorders and assisted reproduction: evidences and perspectives. Int J Food Sci Nutr 2019; 71:276-285. [PMID: 31928386 DOI: 10.1080/09637486.2019.1661978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Vitamin D is an important nutrient involved in many fundamental health outcomes. However, its influence on female reproductive function remains ambiguous. Cholecalciferol seems to have a role in the reproductive processes and in the patients affected by polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, uterine myomas and premature ovarian failure. Moreover, it may play an important role in the assisted reproductive techniques, given that it is capable of influencing oocyte quality, but also an adequate preparation of the endometrium for embryonic implantation. Although promising, available evidence is based on a limited number of in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies. We provide an overview of the association between vitamin D and female infertility reporting the most recent data published in the literature. Nevertheless, properly randomised clinical trials are mandatory to achieve more conclusive results about the promising role of vitamin D in the management of female assisted reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michele Fichera
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Péter Török
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | | | - Luigi Della Corte
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Simone Garzon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Filippo Del Ponte" Hospital, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Annunziata Carlea
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Gabriella Zito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute for Maternal and Child Health-IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
| | - Marco Marzio Panella
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Cermisoni GC, Alteri A, Corti L, Rabellotti E, Papaleo E, Viganò P, Sanchez AM. Vitamin D and Endometrium: A Systematic Review of a Neglected Area of Research. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E2320. [PMID: 30096760 PMCID: PMC6122064 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19082320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Revised: 08/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Growing evidence supports a role of vitamin D (VD) in reproductive health. Vitamin D receptor (VDR) is expressed in the ovary, endometrium, and myometrium. The biological actions of VD in fertility and reproductive tissues have been investigated but mainly using animal models. Conversely, the molecular data addressing the mechanisms underlying VD action in the physiologic endometrium and in endometrial pathologies are still scant. Levels of VDR expression according to the menstrual cycle are yet to be definitively clarified, possibly being lower in the proliferative compared to the secretory phase and in mid-secretory compared to early secretory phase. Endometrial tissue also expresses the enzymes involved in the metabolism of VD. The potential anti-proliferative and anti-inflammatory effects of VD for the treatment of endometriosis have been investigated in recent years. Treatment of ectopic endometrial cells with 1,25(OH)₂D₃ could significantly reduce cytokine-mediated inflammatory responses. An alteration of VD metabolism in terms of increased 24-hydroxylase mRNA and protein expression has been demonstrated in endometrial cancer, albeit not consistently. The effect of the active form of the vitamin as an anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, and differentiation-inducing agent has been demonstrated in various endometrial cancer cell lines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Greta Chiara Cermisoni
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milano, Italy.
| | - Alessandra Alteri
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milano, Italy.
| | - Laura Corti
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milano, Italy.
| | - Elisa Rabellotti
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milano, Italy.
| | - Enrico Papaleo
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milano, Italy.
| | - Paola Viganò
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milano, Italy.
| | - Ana Maria Sanchez
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milano, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Yilmaz N, Ersoy E, Tokmak A, Sargin A, Ozgu-Erdinc AS, Erkaya S, Ibrahim Yakut H. Do Serum Vitamin D Levels Have Any Effect on Intrauterine Insemination Success? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2018; 12:164-168. [PMID: 29707935 PMCID: PMC5936616 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2018.5256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies have shown that vitamin D has an essential role in the reproductive system. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of vitamin D levels in patients undergoing ovulation induction (OI), and subsequent intrauterine insemination (IUI) procedure. MATERIALS AND METHODS One hundred and four infertile and one hundred and three fertile women were recruited in this cross-sectional study which was conducted in a tertiary level maternity hospital. Infertile patients were divided into pregnant and non-pregnant subgroups after treatment. Individual characteristics and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 [25 (OH) D3] levels were compared between the groups. RESULTS The vast majority of our study population consisted of women who had vitamin D deficiency (96.6%). There was no statistically significant difference between infertile and fertile groups in terms of serum 25 (OH) D3 levels (P=0.512). Similarly, no significant difference was observed between the pregnant and non-pregnant subgroups of infertile patients regarding 25 (OH) D3 levels (P=0.267). CONCLUSION There is no association between female infertility and serum vitamin D levels. Vitamin D does not predict pregnancy in infertile women undergoing OI with IUI. Further research which will provide a comparison between much more women who have deficient and sufficient 25 (OH) D3 levels is warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nafiye Yilmaz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Healthcare Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ebru Ersoy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Healthcare Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey. Electronic Address:
| | - Aytekin Tokmak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Healthcare Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ayla Sargin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Healthcare Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - A Seval Ozgu-Erdinc
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Healthcare Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Salim Erkaya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Healthcare Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Halil Ibrahim Yakut
- Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Healthcare Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Vieira LA, Dos Santos AA, Peluso C, Barbosa CP, Bianco B, Rodrigues LMR. Influence of lifestyle characteristics and VDR polymorphisms as risk factors for intervertebral disc degeneration: a case-control study. Eur J Med Res 2018; 23:11. [PMID: 29467039 PMCID: PMC5822660 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-018-0309-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intervertebral disc degeneration (DD) is an important cause of low back pain and its precise aetiology is not fully understood, being attributed to cumulative environmental, biomechanical and genetic effects. The vitamin D plays a key role in regulation of calcium homeostasis and bone mineralization, exerting its biological activities by binding to a high-affinity receptor (VDR). Polymorphisms in VDR gene were previously associated with DD process, however with conflicting results. Here, we aimed to investigate the influence of lifestyle characteristics and VDR TaqI, BsmI, ApaI and FokI polymorphisms as risk factors for DD process. METHODS Retrospective case-control study involving 231 participants: 119 with confirmed DD and 112 healthy controls. Genotyping of VDR polymorphisms was performed by PCR-RFLP and real-time PCR using TaqMan methodology. All patients answered a questionnaire regarding lifestyle characteristics, such as educational level, pain localization, smoking habits, engagement of physical activity, postural and load weight at work and familial history of disc degeneration. The variables were compared between groups and adjusted by age and gender. RESULTS The case group was composed by 52% female and 48% male and the mean age was 40.0 years old, while in the control group 79% was female and 21% male and the mean age was 32.0 years old. Although gender distribution and mean age were different between groups, in the control group all participants were less than 45 years old and there was a prevalence of women in both groups. The factors that could be possibly associated to DD in the Brazilian population studied included smoking habits (26% in cases and 9% in controls, p = 0.003), lack of engagement in physical activity (observed in 77% of cases and 62% of controls, p = 0.018), and loading weight during work routine (58% in cases and 24% in controls, p ≤ 0.001). However, after adjusting by age and gender, only smoking habits remained associated to disc degeneration (p = 0.027). Considering the educational level, 35.2% of cases and 15.6% of controls had only the Elementary School, and 5.5% of DD group and 28.6% of control group had completed College (p = 0.025). In addition, educational level was directly associated to load weight at work (p = 0.012). Regarding VDR polymorphisms, no significant difference in genotype and allele frequencies between groups was observed. The haplotype analysis revealed that the combined wild-type alleles of TaqI, ApaI and FokI polymorphisms-TGT-was observed in a higher frequency in control group (p = 0.039). CONCLUSION The findings suggested that smoking habits was a risk factor for disc degeneration in the population studied. Single analysis revealed no significant effects of VDR polymorphisms in disc degeneration process, while the combination of wild-type alleles of TaqI, ApaI and FokI polymorphisms, TGT haplotype, decreased the risk of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luiz Angelo Vieira
- Discipline of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Department of Surgery, Faculdade de Medicina do ABC, Santo André, Brazil
| | - Aline Amaro Dos Santos
- Laboratory of Genetics, Human Reproduction and Genetics Center, Faculdade de Medicina do ABC, Av. Lauro Gomes, 2000, Santo André, SP, CEP 09060-870, Brazil
| | - Carla Peluso
- Laboratory of Genetics, Human Reproduction and Genetics Center, Faculdade de Medicina do ABC, Av. Lauro Gomes, 2000, Santo André, SP, CEP 09060-870, Brazil
| | - Caio Parente Barbosa
- Discipline of Sexual and Reproductive Health, and Populational Genetics, Department of Collective Health, Faculdade de Medicina do ABC, Santo André, Brazil
| | - Bianca Bianco
- Laboratory of Genetics, Human Reproduction and Genetics Center, Faculdade de Medicina do ABC, Av. Lauro Gomes, 2000, Santo André, SP, CEP 09060-870, Brazil. .,Discipline of Sexual and Reproductive Health, and Populational Genetics, Department of Collective Health, Faculdade de Medicina do ABC, Santo André, Brazil.
| | - Luciano Miller Reis Rodrigues
- Discipline of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Department of Surgery, Faculdade de Medicina do ABC, Santo André, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Reginatto MW, Pizarro BM, Antunes RA, Mancebo ACA, Hoffmann L, Fernandes P, Areas P, Chiamolera MI, Silva R, de Souza MDCB, Bloise E, Ortiga-Carvalho TM. Vitamin D Receptor TaqI Polymorphism Is Associated With Reduced Follicle Number in Women Utilizing Assisted Reproductive Technologies. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:252. [PMID: 29892263 PMCID: PMC5985330 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2017] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Calcitriol, or 1,25-hydroxycholecalciferol, is the active form of vitamin D. It binds and activates vitamin D receptor (VDR). Infertility and defective folliculogenesis have been observed in female vdr-knockout mice; however, whether VDR polymorphisms affect human ovarian responses to controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) remains unclear. We hypothesized that VDR polymorphisms are associated with infertility and COS responses. Thus, we evaluated the association between the TaqI, BsmI, and FokI VDR polymorphisms and ovarian responses in women undergoing COS. METHODS In this study, we recruited a control group (n = 121) comprising volunteers with a history of natural conception and a second group of women undergoing COS (n = 70). TaqI, BsmI, and FokI genotyping was performed via restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis or TaqMan qPCR and Sanger sequencing. Intrafollicular 25(OH)D contents were measured in follicular fluid collected from COS patients during oocyte retrieval. Ovarian response parameters were obtained from patient medical records. RESULTS There were no significant differences in the genotype frequencies of VDR polymorphisms (TaqI, BsmI and FokI) between the control and COS groups. However, the allele frequency of TaqI (C allele) was significantly lower in the COS group than in the control group (p = 0.02). Follicle number but not oocyte number was lower in patients with TaqI polymorphic (TC/CC) genotypes (p = 0.03). Importantly, the ratio between the number of follicles retrieved and intrafollicular estradiol concentrations was higher in patients with the TC/CC TaqI genotypes (p < 0.02). CONCLUSION We identified an association between the VDR TaqI polymorphism and reduced follicle number in women undergoing COS, suggesting that VDR signaling affects the ovarian response to stimulation via unknown mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mila W. Reginatto
- Instituto de Biofisica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Bartira M. Pizarro
- Instituto de Biofisica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Roberto A. Antunes
- Instituto de Biofisica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Fertipraxis – Centro de Reprodução Humana, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Maternidade Escola, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Luísa Hoffmann
- Instituto de Biofisica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Pâmela Fernandes
- Instituto de Biofisica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Areas
- Fertipraxis – Centro de Reprodução Humana, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Maria I. Chiamolera
- Departmento de Medicina, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rosane Silva
- Instituto de Biofisica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Enrrico Bloise
- Departamento de Morfologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Tânia M. Ortiga-Carvalho
- Instituto de Biofisica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Tânia M. Ortiga-Carvalho,
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Muscogiuri G, Altieri B, de Angelis C, Palomba S, Pivonello R, Colao A, Orio F. Shedding new light on female fertility: The role of vitamin D. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2017; 18:273-283. [PMID: 28102491 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-017-9407-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
In the last decades several studies suggested that vitamin D is involved in the modulation of the reproductive process in women due to the expression of VDR and 1α-hydroxylase in reproductive tissues such as ovary, uterus, placenta, pituitary and hypothalamus. Vitamin D has also a role in the regulation of sex hormone steroidogenesis. Increasing evidence suggests that vitamin D might have a regulatory role in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)-associated symptoms, including ovulatory dysfunction, insulin resistance and hyperandrogenism. Vitamin D deficiency also has been reported to contribute to the pathogenesis of endometriosis due to its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. Although most of the studies supported a role of vitamin D in the onset of these diseases, randomized controlled trials to assess the efficacy of vitamin D supplementation have never been performed. In this review we critically discuss the role of vitamin D in female fertility, starting from in vitro and in vivo studies, focusing our attention on the two most frequent causes of female infertility: PCOS and endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Muscogiuri
- Ios and Coleman Medicina Futura Medical Center, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Endocrinology, University "Federico II", Via Sergio Pasini, 580121, Naples, Italy.
| | - Barbara Altieri
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Medical Pathology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina de Angelis
- Ios and Coleman Medicina Futura Medical Center, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Endocrinology, University "Federico II", Via Sergio Pasini, 580121, Naples, Italy
| | - Stefano Palomba
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova-IRCCS, 42123, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Rosario Pivonello
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Annamaria Colao
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Orio
- Department of Sports Science and Wellness, "Parthenope" University Naples, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Wu J, Xie H, Yao S, Liang Y. Macrophage and nerve interaction in endometriosis. J Neuroinflammation 2017; 14:53. [PMID: 28288663 PMCID: PMC5351283 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-017-0828-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2016] [Accepted: 02/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of the immune system in endometriotic milieus has been considered to play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Macrophage recruitment and nerve fiber infiltration are the two major characteristics of this aberrant immune environment. First, the recruitment of macrophages and their polarization phenotype within the endometriotic lesion have been demonstrated to facilitate the development and maintenance of endometriosis. M1 phenotype of macrophages has the capacity to secrete multiple cytokines for inflammatory response, while M2 macrophage possesses an opposite property that can mediate the process of immunosuppression and neuroangiogenesis. Upon secretion of multiple abnormal signal molecules by the endometriotic lesion, macrophages could alter their location and phenotype. These changes facilitate the accommodation of the aberrant microenvironment and the exacerbation of disease progression. Second, the infiltration of nerve fibers and their abnormal distribution are proved to be involved in the generation of endometriosis-associated pain and inflammatory response. An imbalance in sensory and sympathetic innervation and the abnormal secretion of different cytokines could mediate neurogenesis and subsequent peripheral neuroinflammation in endometriosis. Although endometriosis creates an inflammatory milieu promoting macrophage infiltration and an imbalanced innervation, interaction between macrophages and nerve fibers in this process remains unknown. The aim of this review is to highlight the role of macrophage and nerve interaction in endometriosis, where macrophage recruitment and neurogenesis can be the underlying mechanism of neuroinflammation and pathogenesis of endometriosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinjie Wu
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510089 China
| | - Hongyu Xie
- Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510089 China
| | - Shuzhong Yao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 58, the 2nd Zhongshan Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510080 Guangdong Province China
| | - Yanchun Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 58, the 2nd Zhongshan Road, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510080 Guangdong Province China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Almassinokiani F, Khodaverdi S, Solaymani-Dodaran M, Akbari P, Pazouki A. Effects of Vitamin D on Endometriosis-Related Pain: A Double-Blind Clinical Trial. Med Sci Monit 2016; 22:4960-4966. [PMID: 27986972 PMCID: PMC5189720 DOI: 10.12659/msm.901838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Endometriosis is a disabling disease of reproductive-age women. Dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and pelvic pain are the main symptoms of endometriosis. Its etiology is not clear. Endometriosis may have various causes, including vitamin D deficiency, but its effect is controversial. Material/Methods In this double-blind clinical trial, we enrolled patients with endometriosis diagnosed and treated by laparoscopy, with scores of at least 3 for of dysmenorrhea and/or pelvic pain at 8 weeks after surgical treatment. They were randomly prescribed vitamin D (50 000 IU weekly for 12 weeks) or placebo. Severity of pain in the 2 groups (placebo and treatment) was compared by VAS test at 24 weeks after surgical treatment. Results There were 19 patients in the vitamin D group and 20 in the placebo group. Baseline characteristics in the 2 groups were similar. Following the treatment with vitamin D or placebo, we did not find significant differences in severity of pelvic pain (p=0.24) and dysmenorrhea (p=0.45) between the 2 groups. Mean pelvic pain at 24 weeks after laparoscopy in the vitamin D group was 0.84±1.74 and in placebo group it was 0.68±1.70 (p=0.513). Mean dysmenorrhea was 2.10±2.33 in the vitamin D group and 2.73±2.84 in the placebo group (p=0.45). Conclusions After ablative surgery for endometriosis, vitamin D treatment did not have a significant effect in reducing dysmenorrhea and/or pelvic pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fariba Almassinokiani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fellowship of Laparoscopy, Minimally Invasive Surgery Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Sepideh Khodaverdi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fellowship of Laparoscopy, Endometriosis Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoud Solaymani-Dodaran
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Minimally Invasive Surgery Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Peyman Akbari
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Abdolreza Pazouki
- Department of Endoscopic Surgery, Minimally Invasive Surgery Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Center of Excellence for Minimally Invasive Surgery Training, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Center of Excellence of European Branch of International Federation for Surgery of Obesity, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Shahrokhi SZ, Ghaffari F, Kazerouni F. Role of vitamin D in female reproduction. Clin Chim Acta 2015; 455:33-8. [PMID: 26747961 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2015.12.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Revised: 12/26/2015] [Accepted: 12/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that belongs to the family of steroid hormones. The biological actions of vitamin D are exerted through a soluble protein, the vitamin D receptor (VDR). VDR is a transcription factor located in the nuclei of target cells that mediates the genomic action of the active form of vitamin D (1,25(OH)2D3). This transcription factor is distributed in various tissues, including the reproductive system. The presence of VDR in female reproductive tissue suggests that vitamin D is involved in female reproduction. The present article reviews the impact of vitamin D on anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), as an ovarian reserve marker, and ovarian steroidogenesis. This article also discusses the impact of vitamin D as a factor that influences infertility and the outcome of in vitro fertilization (IVF), insulin resistance (IR), hyperandrogenism, endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seyedeh Zahra Shahrokhi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Firouzeh Ghaffari
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Faranak Kazerouni
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
SZCZEPAŃSKA MALGORZATA, MOSTOWSKA ADRIANNA, WIRSTLEIN PRZEMYSLAW, SKRZYPCZAK JANA, MISZTAL MATTHEW, JAGODZIŃSKI PAWEŁP. Polymorphic variants in vitamin D signaling pathway genes and the risk of endometriosis-associated infertility. Mol Med Rep 2015; 12:7109-15. [DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2015.4309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2014] [Accepted: 07/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
|
23
|
Yildirim B, Guler T, Akbulut M, Oztekin O, Sariiz G. 1-alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 regresses endometriotic implants in rats by inhibiting neovascularization and altering regulation of matrix metalloproteinase. Postgrad Med 2014; 126:104-10. [PMID: 24393757 DOI: 10.3810/pgm.2014.01.2730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The exact pathogenesis of endometriosis has not been completely discerned. 1-alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25[OH][2]D[3]) has been shown to have an anti-angiogenic effect and extracellular matrix-proteases-degrading properties. We hypothesized that 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) may have therapeutic value in the treatment of endometriosis. METHODS Endometrial tissue was implanted into the abdominal peritoneum of 21 Wistar albino rats; the rats were randomized into 3 groups. In Group A (simultaneous group), we simultaneously induced endometriosis and began 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) treatment. Group B rats (sequential group) were treated after endometriosis was documented. Animals in Group C (control group) were followed without any treatment after the development of endometriosis. RESULTS Histologic score, mean volume, and weight of the explants in Group A and B were found to be significantly lower than those of the control group. Levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) immunoreactivities in Group A and B were also significantly lower compared with Group C. In contrast, intensities of immunoreactivity staining for tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) in Group A and B were significantly higher than that of the control group. CONCLUSION 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) regresses endometriotic implants in rat models by altering implant levels of VEGF, TIMP-2, and MMP-9.
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Special attention has been given to the effect of vitamin D supplementation on fertility outcomes in both sexes. AIMS The purpose of this narrative review was to elucidate the role of vitamin D in male and female reproduction, providing current evidence from both animal and human studies. MATERIALS AND METHODS Using PubMed and Medline, we searched for publications during the last 30 years regarding the role of vitamin D in human reproduction. RESULTS Accumulating evidence from animal and human studies suggests that vitamin D is involved in many functions of the reproductive system in both genders. In women, vitamin D status has been associated with in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome, features of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis. Although several data converge towards a beneficial effect of vitamin D supplementation in metabolic disturbances in women with PCOS, a significant knowledge gap precludes the establishment of a clear cause-effect relationship. In men, vitamin D status has been associated with semen quality and sperm count, motility and morphology. There is evidence for a favourable effect of vitamin D supplementation on semen quality, testosterone concentrations and fertility outcomes. DISCUSSION Studies with superior methodological characteristics are needed in order to establish a role for vitamin D on the treatment of female and male infertility. CONCLUSIONS Recent data on vitamin D provide new insights in the complex pathogenesis and treatment of infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Anagnostis
- Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology, First Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Papageorgiou" General Hospital, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Rahmioglu N, Missmer SA, Montgomery GW, Zondervan KT. Insights into Assessing the Genetics of Endometriosis. CURRENT OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY REPORTS 2012; 1:124-137. [PMID: 22924156 PMCID: PMC3410033 DOI: 10.1007/s13669-012-0016-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a complex disease arising from the interplay between multiple genetic and environmental factors. The genetic variants potentially underlying the hereditary component of endometriosis have been widely investigated through hypothesis-driven candidate gene studies, an approach that generally has proven to be inherently difficult and problematic for a number of reasons. Recently, through major collaborative efforts in the endometriosis research field, hypothesis-free genome-wide approaches have started to provide new insights into potential pathways leading to development of endometriosis, as well as highlighting the phenotypic heterogeneity of the condition. This review summarizes the most recent studies investigating the genetic variation contributing to endometriosis, with a particular focus on genome-wide approaches, and discusses promising future directions of genetic research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nilufer Rahmioglu
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Stacey A. Missmer
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA
- Channing Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
| | - Grant W. Montgomery
- Molecular Epidemiology, Queensland Institute for Medical Research, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Krina T. Zondervan
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vitamin D has been well-known for its function in maintaining calcium and phosphorus homeostasis and promoting bone mineralization. There is some evidence that in addition to sex steroid hormones, the classic regulators of human reproduction, vitamin D also modulates reproductive processes in women and men. AIM The aim of this review was to assess the studies that evaluated the relationship between vitamin D and fertility in women and men as well as in animals. METHODS We performed a systematic literature search in Pubmed for relevant English language publications published until October 2011. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The vitamin D receptor (VDR) and vitamin D metabolizing enzymes are found in reproductive tissues of women and men. Vdr knockout mice have significant gonadal insufficiency, decreased sperm count and motility, and histological abnormalities of testis, ovary and uterus. Moreover, we present evidence that vitamin D is involved in female reproduction including IVF outcome (clinical pregnancy rates) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In PCOS women, low 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels are associated with obesity, metabolic, and endocrine disturbances and vitamin D supplementation might improve menstrual frequency and metabolic disturbances in those women. Moreover, vitamin D might influence steroidogenesis of sex hormones (estradiol and progesterone) in healthy women and high 25(OH)D levels might be associated with endometriosis. In men, vitamin D is positively associated with semen quality and androgen status. Moreover, vitamin D treatment might increase testosterone levels. Testiculopathic men show low CYP21R expression, low 25(OH)D levels, and osteoporosis despite normal testosterone levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Lerchbaum
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036 Graz, Austria.
| | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Bianco B, Verreschi ITN, Oliveira KC, Guedes AD, Barbosa CP, Lipay MVN. Analysis of vitamin D receptor gene (VDR) polymorphisms in Turner syndrome patients. Gynecol Endocrinol 2012; 28:326-9. [PMID: 22117179 DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2011.631630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Individuals with Turner syndrome (TS) have increased risk for autoimmune diseases, especially thyroid abnormalities. The function of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene is influenced by several genetic polymorphisms which are associated with a susceptibility to a range of autoimmune diseases. Thus, we have hypothesized a possible relationship between thyroid abnormalities and VDR polymorphisms (ApaI/G1025-49T, TaqI/T1056C, FokI/T2C and BsmI G1024 + 283A) in TS patients. A case-control study was performed comprising 101 Brazilian women with TS and a control group consisting of 133 healthy fertile women without a history of autoimmune diseases. In TS group, 21.8% had Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Detection of VDR polymorphisms was performed using TaqMan system by real-time PCR. The χ(2) was used to compare allele and genotype frequencies between groups. Combined genotypes of VDR gene polymorphisms were assessed by the haplotype analysis. A p value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Relatively similar VDR polymorphisms genotype and allelic frequencies in cases and controls were found, even when only considering the patients with thyroid abnormalities. Haplotype analysis showed that none of the VDR haplotypes were associated to thyroid diseases in TS patients. In conclusion, the results showed no association between VDR gene polymorphisms and thyroid abnormalities in Brazilian TS patients tested.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Bianco
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
The possible role of genetic variants in autoimmune-related genes in the development of endometriosis. Hum Immunol 2012; 73:306-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2011.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2011] [Revised: 11/21/2011] [Accepted: 12/06/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
29
|
Grundmann M, von Versen-Höynck F. Vitamin D - roles in women's reproductive health? Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2011; 9:146. [PMID: 22047005 PMCID: PMC3239848 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-9-146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2011] [Accepted: 11/02/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past few years a growing interest in vitamin D can be observed in the lay and biomedical literature due to findings demonstrating a low vitamin D status in the population. In addition to its importance for the regulation of calcium and phosphorus homeostasis recent epidemiologic studies have observed relationships between low vitamin D levels and multiple disease states. This secosteroid hormone also regulates the expression of a large number of genes in reproductive tissues implicating a role for vitamin D in female reproduction. In this report we summarize the recent evidence that vitamin D status influences female reproductive and pregnancy outcomes. Human and animal data suggest that low vitamin D status is associated with impaired fertility, endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome. Evidence from observational studies shows higher rates of preeclampsia, preterm birth, bacterial vaginosis and gestational diabetes in women with low vitamin D levels. However, confirmation of experimental observations establishing an association of vitamin D deficiency with adverse reproductive outcomes by high quality observational and large-scale randomized clinical trials is still lacking. The determination of optimal 25(OH)D3 levels in the reproductive period and the amount of vitamin D supplementation required to achieve those levels for the numerous actions of vitamin D throughout a woman's life would have important public health implications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Grundmann
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Brandes A, Christofolini DM, Cavalheiro CM, Vilarino FL, André GM, Bianco B, Barbosa CP. Genetic variants in fibrinolytic system-related genes in infertile women with and without endometriosis. Genet Test Mol Biomarkers 2011; 16:54-7. [PMID: 21819230 DOI: 10.1089/gtmb.2011.0112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS The aim of this study was to evaluate urokinase-type plasminogen activator gene (uPA) and thrombin-activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor gene (TAFI) genotypes in a group of infertile women with and/or without endometriosis and controls. METHODS A case-control study comprising 180 infertile women with endometriosis, 68 women with idiopathic infertility, and 152 fertile women as controls was carried out. Detection of uPA (C422T/rs2227564) and TAFI (G438A/rs2146881) polymorphisms was performed by TaqMan polymerase chain reaction. The results were statistically analyzed and a p-value of <0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS We found no association among both uPA or TAFI polymorphisms and endometriosis-related infertility (p=0.920 and p=0.356, respectively) or idiopathic infertility (p=0.502 and p=0.392, respectively) comparing to controls, even considering minimal/mild and moderate/severe endometriosis separately. Both uPA and TAFI polymorphisms were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium for all studied groups. The combinatory analysis of both uPA and TAFI polymorphisms to endometriosis-related infertility, idiopathic infertility, and control group showed no statistical difference to any combination. CONCLUSION The data suggest that, in the Brazilian population, genetic variations in both uPA and TAFI were not relevant to endometriosis and/or infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ariel Brandes
- Division of Human Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculdade de Medicina do ABC , Santo André, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Analysis of FOXP3 polymorphisms in infertile women with and without endometriosis. Fertil Steril 2011; 95:2223-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.03.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2010] [Revised: 01/28/2011] [Accepted: 03/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|