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Mlyczyńska E, Rytelewska E, Zaobidna E, Respekta-Długosz N, Kopij G, Dobrzyń K, Kieżun M, Smolińska N, Kamiński T, Rak A. In vitro effect of visfatin on endocrine functions of the porcine corpus luteum. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14780. [PMID: 38926439 PMCID: PMC11208563 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65102-4] [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: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Previously, we demonstrated the expression of visfatin in porcine reproductive tissues and its effect on pituitary endocrinology. The objective of this study was to examine the visfatin effect on the secretion of steroid (P4, E2) and prostaglandin (PGE2, PGF2α), the mRNA and protein abundance of steroidogenic markers (STAR, CYP11A1, HSD3B, CYP19A1), prostaglandin receptors (PTGER2, PTGFR), insulin receptor (INSR), and activity of kinases (MAPK/ERK1/2, AKT, AMPK) in the porcine corpus luteum. We noted that the visfatin effect strongly depends on the phase of the estrous cycle: on days 2-3 and 14-16 it reduced P4, while on days 10-12 it stimulated P4. Visfatin increased secretion of E2 on days 2-3, PGE2 on days 2-3 and 10-12, reduced PGF2α release on days 14-16, as well as stimulated the expression of steroidogenic markers on days 10-12 of the estrous cycle. Moreover, visfatin elevated PTGER mRNA expression and decreased its protein level, while we noted the opposite changes for PTGFR. Additionally, visfatin activated ERK1/2, AKT, and AMPK, while reduced INSR phosphorylation. Interestingly, after inhibition of INSR and signalling pathways visfatin action was abolished. These findings suggest a regulatory role of visfatin in the porcine corpus luteum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Mlyczyńska
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Edyta Rytelewska
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn-Kortowo, Poland
| | - Ewa Zaobidna
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn-Kortowo, Poland
| | - Natalia Respekta-Długosz
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Kopij
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn-Kortowo, Poland
| | - Kamil Dobrzyń
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn-Kortowo, Poland
| | - Marta Kieżun
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn-Kortowo, Poland
| | - Nina Smolińska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn-Kortowo, Poland
| | - Tadeusz Kamiński
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn-Kortowo, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Rak
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland.
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McFarland MH, Machado MMF, Sansbury GM, Musselman KC, Boero G, O'Buckley TK, Carr CC, Morrow AL, Robinson DL. Acute, but not repeated, cocaine exposure alters allopregnanolone levels in the midbrain of male and female rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024; 241:1011-1025. [PMID: 38282126 PMCID: PMC11180476 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-024-06534-8] [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: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE Multiple psychiatric disorders are associated with altered brain and serum levels of neuroactive steroids, including the endogenous GABAergic steroid, allopregnanolone. Clinically, chronic cocaine use was correlated with decreased levels of pregnenolone. Preclinically, the effect of acute cocaine on allopregnanolone levels in rodents has had mixed results, showing an increase or no change in allopregnanolone levels in some brain regions. OBJECTIVE We hypothesized that cocaine acutely increases allopregnanolone levels, but repeated cocaine exposure decreases allopregnanolone levels compared to controls. METHODS We performed two separate studies to determine how systemic administration of 15 mg/kg cocaine (1) acutely or (2) chronically alters brain (olfactory bulb, frontal cortex, dorsal striatum, and midbrain) and serum allopregnanolone levels in adult male and female Sprague-Dawley rats. RESULTS Cocaine acutely increased allopregnanolone levels in the midbrain, but not in olfactory bulb, frontal cortex, or dorsal striatum. Repeated cocaine did not persistently (24 h later) alter allopregnanolone levels in any region in either sex. However, allopregnanolone levels varied by sex across brain regions. In the acute study, we found that females had significantly higher allopregnanolone levels in serum and olfactory bulb relative to males. In the repeated cocaine study, females had significantly higher allopregnanolone levels in olfactory bulb, frontal cortex, and serum. Finally, acute cocaine increased allopregnanolone levels in the frontal cortex of females in proestrus, relative to non-proestrus stages. CONCLUSION Collectively these results suggest that allopregnanolone levels vary across brain regions and by sex, which may play a part in differential responses to cocaine by sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minna H McFarland
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Meira M F Machado
- Robarts Research Institute, Western University, London, ON, N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Griffin M Sansbury
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Kate C Musselman
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Giorgia Boero
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Todd K O'Buckley
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Crystal C Carr
- Department of Psychology, Wofford College, Spartanburg, SC, 29303, USA
| | - A Leslie Morrow
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Donita L Robinson
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
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Sarpong KAN, Hee Kim S, McCartney CR, Wiencek JR, Bazydlo LAL. Spironolactone metabolite causes falsely increased progesterone in the Abbott Architect immunoassay. Clin Biochem 2024; 126:110747. [PMID: 38484829 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2024.110747] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunoassays are important for routine clinical testing and medical diagnosis. However, they are limited by cross-reactivity especially at low analyte concentrations. There is a critical need to investigate compounds that can interfere with immunoassays. Herein, we describe the identification of canrenone, a spironolactone metabolite that falsely increases progesterone concentrations on the Abbott Architect i2000 Immunoassay. METHODS Serum samples and assay diluents were spiked with spironolactone or canrenone and progesterone concentrations were measured on the Architect i2000 and Immulite XPi immunoassay platforms. Blood samples from patients taking spironolactone were analyzed with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry to evaluate the intrinsic response of progesterone concentrations to the presence of canrenone. RESULTS We measured approximately 10-fold higher progesterone concentrations on the Abbott Architect i2000 compared to reference immunoassay analyzers (Siemens Immulite XPi and Roche Cobas e601/602), suggesting an analytical error which is unique to the Architect i2000 antibody and/or assay conditions. By measuring serum progesterone after addition of spironolactone or canrenone to serum samples, we found that canrenone falsely increased progesterone on the Architect i2000 immunoassay. However, this interference was more pronounced at low serum progesterone concentrations. Moreover, a strong positive correlation was seen between canrenone and measured serum progesterone concentrations. CONCLUSIONS Our investigations are important for individuals who require progesterone measurements using the Architect i2000 immunoassay, especially because it is unlikely for clinicians to order canrenone measurements alongside progesterone measurements for individuals taking spironolactone. Further research is needed to determine whether canrenone can influence progesterone measurements on other immunoassay systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwabena A N Sarpong
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), Department of Biochemistry Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.
| | - Su Hee Kim
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA; Center for Research in Reproduction, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Christopher R McCartney
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA; Center for Research in Reproduction, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Joesph R Wiencek
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Lindsay A L Bazydlo
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
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Allen AM, Valenti M, Linde-Krieger LB, Medvescek K, Farland LV. Menstrual Phase Identification Questionnaire (MPIQ): Development and validation of a cross-sectional survey to identify follicular and luteal phases. Exp Clin Psychopharmacol 2024; 32:207-214. [PMID: 37439748 PMCID: PMC10787033 DOI: 10.1037/pha0000671] [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] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Evidence continues to accumulate on the influence of the menstrual phase on several biobehavioral outcomes (e.g., substance misuse). Expansion of this knowledge is limited due to the burdensomeness of accurate menstrual phase assessment. Thus, we sought to create and validate a questionnaire that can be used as a stand-alone item within low-resource settings and numerous study designs (e.g., cross-sectional) to accurately identify both the follicular phase (FP) and the luteal phase (LP). Participants completed the self-administered four-item Menstrual Phase Identification Questionnaire (MPIQ) in two recently completed clinical trials. We assessed the accuracy of two MPIQ scoring criteria (less restrictive and more restrictive), as compared to self-report of onset of menses alone, with progesterone confirmation via dried blood spots. Participants (n = 59) were, on average, 33.7 (standard deviation [SD]: ± 4.3) years old and provided a total of 83 responses. Assessing FP and LP using the self-reported onset of menses alone classified 65.1% of the responses with an overall phase identification accuracy of 60.2%. While the more restrictive MPIQ scoring classified 100% of the responses, it yielded a similar accuracy (68.4%). In contrast, the less restrictive MPIQ scoring classified 100% of the responses and also significantly improved phase identification accuracy to 92.1% (p < .001). The MPIQ, as a stand-alone item, allows all cross-sectional responses to be classified with a high level of accuracy. This low-burden questionnaire can be used alone to identify FP and LP in studies that may be otherwise limited by study design, finances, and/or participant burden. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia M. Allen
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ
| | - Michelle Valenti
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ
| | - Linnea B. Linde-Krieger
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ
| | - Kristina Medvescek
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ
| | - Leslie V. Farland
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine-Tucson, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ
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Chen W, Wang X, Wan S, Yang Y, Zhang Y, Xu Z, Zhao J, Mi C, Zhang H. Dichloroacetic acid and trichloroacetic acid as disinfection by-products in drinking water are endocrine-disrupting chemicals. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 466:133035. [PMID: 38266585 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133035] [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: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Dichloroacetic acid (DCAA) and trichloroacetic acid (TCAA) are two typical non-volatile disinfection by-products (DBPs) found in drinking water. Increasing evidence has demonstrated that they show reproductive toxicity. However, whether they might have endocrine disrupting properties remains largely unknown. To discover this, we treated male mice or pregnant mice with 0, 1-, 102-, 103-, 104-, or 5 × 104-fold maximal concentration level (MCL) of DCAA or TCAA in drinking water. In male mice, the levels of testosterone in serum and androgen receptor (AR) in testis were declined with ≥ 103-fold MCL of DCAA (26.4 mg/kg/d) or TCAA (52.7 mg/kg/d). In pregnant mice, miscarriage rates were increased with ≥ 104-fold MCL of DCAA (264 mg/kg/d) or ≥ 103-fold MCL of TCAA. The levels of FSH in serum were increased and those of estradiol and progesterone were reduced with ≥ 103-fold MCL of DCAA or TCAA. The protein levels of estrogen receptors (ERα and ERβ) in ovary were reduced with ≥ 102-fold MCL of DCAA (2.64 mg/kg/d) or TCAA (5.27 mg/kg/d). Exposure to some certain fold MCL of DCAA or TCAA also altered the protein levels of ERα and ERβ in uterus and placenta. Exposure to 5 × 104-fold MCL of both DCAA and TCAA showed the combined effects. Therefore, both DCAA and TCAA could be considered as novel reproductive endocrine disrupting chemicals, which might be helpful for further assessment of the toxicological effects of DCAA and TCAA and the awareness of reproductive endocrine disrupting properties caused by DCAA and TCAA in drinking water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weina Chen
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Female Reproductive Health, West China School of Public Health, West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; Research Center for Environment and Female Reproductive Health, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518033, China
| | - Xiaoqing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Female Reproductive Health, West China School of Public Health, West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; Research Center for Environment and Female Reproductive Health, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518033, China
| | - Shukun Wan
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Female Reproductive Health, West China School of Public Health, West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; Research Center for Environment and Female Reproductive Health, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518033, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Research Center for Environment and Female Reproductive Health, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518033, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Research Center for Environment and Female Reproductive Health, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518033, China
| | - Zhongyan Xu
- Research Center for Environment and Female Reproductive Health, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518033, China
| | - Jingsong Zhao
- Research Center for Environment and Female Reproductive Health, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518033, China
| | - Chenyang Mi
- Research Center for Environment and Female Reproductive Health, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518033, China
| | - Huidong Zhang
- Research Center for Environment and Female Reproductive Health, the Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518033, China.
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Lai TJ, Teng SW, Chang CK, Huang CY. Progesterone in Pregnancy: Evidence-Based Strategies to Reduce Miscarriage and Enhance Assisted Reproductive Technology. Med Sci Monit 2024; 30:e943400. [PMID: 38501164 PMCID: PMC10929293 DOI: 10.12659/msm.943400] [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: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The incidence of miscarriage in early pregnancy, between 5-20 weeks, is common, with a prevalence of between 5-22% of all pregnancies. Miscarriage can have physical, social, and mental health impacts on women and their families. In societies such as Taiwan, where the birth rate is falling and life expectancy is increasing, there is concern that factors that reduce birth rates will have detrimental economic and societal effects. Progesterone has a significant role in maintaining early and successful pregnancy to term. Evidence from preclinical and clinical research on the roles of progesterone has supported recent clinical guidelines in obstetrics and gynecology to reduce rates of early miscarriage and improve methods of assisted reproductive technology (ART). This article aims to present an evidence-based review of current recommendations for the use of progesterone in early pregnancy to reduce miscarriage rates and in luteal phase support for ART, including embryo transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Jung Lai
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei City, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cardinal Tien Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Sen-Wen Teng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cardinal Tien Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Kun Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cardinal Tien Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Yu Huang
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei City, Taiwan
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Lyzwinski L, Elgendi M, Menon C. Innovative Approaches to Menstruation and Fertility Tracking Using Wearable Reproductive Health Technology: Systematic Review. J Med Internet Res 2024; 26:e45139. [PMID: 38358798 PMCID: PMC10905339 DOI: 10.2196/45139] [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: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emerging digital health technology has moved into the reproductive health market for female individuals. In the past, mobile health apps have been used to monitor the menstrual cycle using manual entry. New technological trends involve the use of wearable devices to track fertility by assessing physiological changes such as temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate. OBJECTIVE The primary aims of this study are to review the types of wearables that have been developed and evaluated for menstrual cycle tracking and to examine whether they may detect changes in the menstrual cycle in female individuals. Another aim is to review whether these devices are effective for tracking various stages in the menstrual cycle including ovulation and menstruation. Finally, the secondary aim is to assess whether the studies have validated their findings by reporting accuracy and sensitivity. METHODS A review of PubMed or MEDLINE was undertaken to evaluate wearable devices for their effectiveness in predicting fertility and differentiating between the different stages of the menstrual cycle. RESULTS Fertility cycle-tracking wearables include devices that can be worn on the wrists, on the fingers, intravaginally, and inside the ear. Wearable devices hold promise for predicting different stages of the menstrual cycle including the fertile window and may be used by female individuals as part of their reproductive health. Most devices had high accuracy for detecting fertility and were able to differentiate between the luteal phase (early and late), fertile window, and menstruation by assessing changes in heart rate, heart rate variability, temperature, and respiratory rate. CONCLUSIONS More research is needed to evaluate consumer perspectives on reproductive technology for monitoring fertility, and ethical issues around the privacy of digital data need to be addressed. Additionally, there is also a need for more studies to validate and confirm this research, given its scarcity, especially in relation to changes in respiratory rate as a proxy for reproductive cycle staging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynnette Lyzwinski
- Menrva Research Group, School of Mechatronics Systems Engineering and Engineering Science, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Mohamed Elgendi
- Biomedical and Mobile Health Technology Laboratory, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Carlo Menon
- Menrva Research Group, School of Mechatronics Systems Engineering and Engineering Science, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Biomedical and Mobile Health Technology Laboratory, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Bharati J, Kumar S, Mohan NH, Pegu SR, Borah S, Gupta VK, Sarkar M. CRISPR/Cas genome editing revealed non-angiogenic role of VEGFA gene in porcine luteal cells: a preliminary report. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:195. [PMID: 38270707 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-09115-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The angiogenic cytokine vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) also exerts non-angiogenic effects on endocrine functionality of porcine luteal cells critical for progesterone (P4) production. METHOD AND RESULTS The expression dynamics of VEGFA-FLT/KDR system were investigated using RT-qPCR during luteal stages and VEGFA gene knock out (KO) porcine luteal cells were generated using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. The downstream effects of VEGFA ablation were studied using RT-qPCR, Annexin V, MTT, ELISA for P4 estimation and scratch wound assay. Bioinformatics analysis of RNA-Seq data of porcine mid-luteal stage was conducted for exploring protein-protein interaction network, KEGG pathways, transcription factors and kinase mapping for VEGFA-FLT/KDR interactomes. The VEGFA-FLT/KDR system expressed throughout the luteal stages with highest expression during mid- luteal stage. Cellular morphology, structure and oil-red-o staining for lipid droplets did not differ significantly between VEGFA KO and wild type cells, however, VEGFA KO significantly decreased (p < 0.05) viability and proliferation efficiency of edited cells on subsequent passages. Expression of apoptotic gene, CASP3 and hypoxia related gene, HIF1A were significantly (p < 0.05) upregulated in KO cells. The relative mRNA expression of VEGFA and steroidogenic genes STAR, CYP11A1 and HSD3B1 decreased significantly (p < 0.05) upon KO, which was further validated by the significant (p < 0.05) decrease in P4 output from KO cells. Bioinformatics analysis mapped VEGFA-FLT/KDR system to signalling pathways associated with steroidogenic cell functionality and survival, which complemented the findings of the study. CONCLUSION The ablation of VEGFA gene resulted in decreased steroidogenic capability of luteal cells, which suggests that VEGFA exerts additional non-angiogenic regulatory effects in luteal cell functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaya Bharati
- ICAR-National Research Centre on Pig, Rani, Guwahati, Assam, 781131, India.
- Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Uttar Pradesh, 243122, India.
| | - Satish Kumar
- ICAR-National Research Centre on Pig, Rani, Guwahati, Assam, 781131, India
| | - N H Mohan
- ICAR-National Research Centre on Pig, Rani, Guwahati, Assam, 781131, India
| | - Seema Rani Pegu
- ICAR-National Research Centre on Pig, Rani, Guwahati, Assam, 781131, India
| | - Sanjib Borah
- Lakhimpur College of Veterinary Science, Assam Agricultural University, North Lakhimpur, Assam, India
| | - Vivek Kumar Gupta
- Lakhimpur College of Veterinary Science, Assam Agricultural University, North Lakhimpur, Assam, India
| | - Mihir Sarkar
- ICAR-National Research Centre On Yak, Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh, 790101, India.
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Barton BE, Erickson JA, Allred SI, Jeffries JM, Stephens KK, Hunter MI, Woodall KA, Winuthayanon W. Reversible female contraceptives: historical, current, and future perspectives†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:14-32. [PMID: 37941453 PMCID: PMC10790348 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad154] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Contraception is a practice with extensive and complicated social and scientific histories. From cycle tracking, to the very first prescription contraceptive pill, to now having over-the-counter contraceptives on demand, family planning is an aspect of healthcare that has undergone and will continue to undergo several transformations through time. This review provides a comprehensive overview of current reversible hormonal and non-hormonal birth control methods as well as their mechanism of action, safety, and effectiveness specifically for individuals who can become pregnant. Additionally, we discuss the latest Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved hormonal method containing estetrol and drospirenone that has not yet been used worldwide as well as the first FDA-approved hormonal over-the-counter progestin-only pills. We also review available data on novel hormonal delivery through microchip, microneedle, and the latest FDA-approved non-hormonal methods such as vaginal pH regulators. Finally, this review will assist in advancing female contraceptive method development by underlining constructive directions for future pursuits. Information was gathered from the NCBI and Google Scholars databases using English and included publications from 1900 to present. Search terms included contraceptive names as well as efficacy, safety, and mechanism of action. In summary, we suggest that investigators consider the side effects and acceptability together with the efficacy of contraceptive candidate towards their development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke E Barton
- School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jeffery A Erickson
- OB/GYN & Women’s Health, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
- Translational Bioscience Program, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Stephanie I Allred
- OB/GYN & Women’s Health, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Jenna M Jeffries
- College of Art & Science, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Kalli K Stephens
- OB/GYN & Women’s Health, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
- Translational Bioscience Program, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Mark I Hunter
- OB/GYN & Women’s Health, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Kirby A Woodall
- OB/GYN & Women’s Health, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Wipawee Winuthayanon
- OB/GYN & Women’s Health, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
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Mlyczyńska E, Kurowska P, Wachowska D, Grzesiak M, Dupont J, Rak A. Phoenixin-14 as a novel direct regulator of porcine luteal cell functions†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:154-168. [PMID: 37815939 PMCID: PMC10790343 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad138] [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: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Phoenixin is a neuropeptide with a well-established role in the central regulation of reproductive processes; however, knowledge regarding its role in the ovary is limited. One of the main active phoenixin isoforms is phoenixin-14, which acts through G protein-coupled receptor 173. Our research hypothesis was that phoenixin-14 is expressed in porcine corpus luteum and exerts luteotropic action by affecting the endocrine function of luteal cells through G protein-coupled receptor 173 and protein kinase signaling. Luteal cells were cultured to investigate the effect of phoenixin-14 (1-1000 nM) on endocrine function. We showed that phoenixin-14 and G protein-coupled receptor 173 are produced locally in porcine corpus luteum and their levels change during the estrous cycle. We detected phoenixin-14 immunostaining in the cytoplasm and G protein-coupled receptor 173 in the cell membrane. Plasma phoenixin levels were highest during the early luteal phase. Interestingly, insulin, luteinizing hormone, progesterone, and prostaglandins decreased phoenixin-14 levels in luteal cells. Phoenixin-14 increased progesterone, estradiol, and prostaglandin E2 secretion, but decreased prostaglandin F2α, upregulated the expression of steroidogenic enzymes, and downregulated receptors for luteinizing hormone and prostaglandin. Also, phoenixin-14 increased the expression of G protein-coupled receptor 173 and the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2, protein kinase B, inhibited the phosphorylation of protein kinase A, and had mixed effect on AMP-activated protein kinase alpha and protein kinase C. G protein-coupled receptor 173 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 mediated the effect of phoenixin-14 on endocrine function of luteal cells. Our results suggest that phoenixin is produced by porcine luteal cells and can be a new regulator of their function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Mlyczyńska
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Patrycja Kurowska
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Dominika Wachowska
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Grzesiak
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Joelle Dupont
- National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment, UMR85, Unité Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France
| | - Agnieszka Rak
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
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11
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Al‐Kuraishy HM, Al‐Maiahy TJ, Al‐Gareeb AI, Alexiou A, Papadakis M, Elhussieny O, Saad HM, Batiha GE. New insights on the potential effect of progesterone in Covid-19: Anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. Immun Inflamm Dis 2023; 11:e1100. [PMID: 38018575 PMCID: PMC10683562 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.1100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a pandemic disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome CoV type 2 (SARS-CoV-2). COVID-19 is higher in men than women and sex hormones have immune-modulator effects during different viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2 infection. One of the essential sex hormones is progesterone (P4). AIMS This review aimed to reveal the association between P4 and Covid-19. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The possible role of P4 in COVID-19 could be beneficial through the modulation of inflammatory signaling pathways, induction of the release of anti-inflammatory cytokines, and inhibition release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. P4 stimulates skew of naïve T cells from inflammatory Th1 toward anti-inflammatory Th2 with activation release of anti-inflammatory cytokines, and activation of regulatory T cells (Treg) with decreased interferon-gamma production that increased during SARS-CoV-2 infection. In addition, P4 is regarded as a potent antagonist of mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), it could reduce MRs that were activated by stimulated aldosterone from high AngII during SARS-CoV-2. P4 active metabolite allopregnanolone is regarded as a neurosteroid that acts as a positive modulator of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABAA ) so it may reduce neuropsychiatric manifestations and dysautonomia in COVID-19 patients. CONCLUSION Taken together, the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties of P4 may improve central and peripheral complications in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayder M. Al‐Kuraishy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutic Medicine, College of MedicineMustansiriyah UniversityBaghdadIraq
| | - Thabat J. Al‐Maiahy
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, College of MedicineAl‐Mustansiriyah UniversityBaghdadIraq
| | - Ali I. Al‐Gareeb
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutic Medicine, College of MedicineMustansiriyah UniversityBaghdadIraq
| | - Athanasios Alexiou
- University Centre for Research & DevelopmentChandigarh UniversityMohaliPunjabIndia
- Department of Science and EngineeringNovel Global Community Educational FoundationHebershamNew South WalesAustralia
- Department of Research & DevelopmentAFNP MedWienAustria
| | - Marios Papadakis
- Department of Surgery II, University Hospital Witten‐Herdecke, Heusnerstrasse 40University of Witten‐HerdeckeWuppertalGermany
| | - Omnya Elhussieny
- Department of Histology and Cytology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineMatrouh UniversityMarsa MatruhEgypt
| | - Hebatallah M. Saad
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineMatrouh UniversityMarsa MatruhEgypt
| | - Gaber El‐Saber Batiha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineDamanhour University, DamanhourAlBeheiraEgypt
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Muneeba S, Acharya N, Mohammad S. The Role of Dydrogesterone in the Management of Luteal Phase Defect: A Comprehensive Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e48194. [PMID: 38050524 PMCID: PMC10693668 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.48194] [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: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The luteal phase of the menstrual cycle is a pivotal period characterized by hormonal intricacies that lay the foundation for successful embryo implantation and early pregnancy development. Luteal phase defect (LPD), marked by abnormalities in luteal function, presents challenges that can impede reproductive outcomes. This comprehensive review article explores the role of dydrogesterone in LPD management, elucidating its mechanisms of action, evidence of efficacy, safety profile, and potential in combination therapies. Dydrogesterone, a synthetic progestogen, closely mirrors natural progesterone's actions, effectively supplementing the luteal phase and enhancing endometrial receptivity. Clinical studies demonstrate improved pregnancy rates, extended luteal phase support, and enhanced reproductive outcomes with dydrogesterone supplementation. Its favorable safety profile, minimal side effects, and reduced risk of unwanted hormonal effects contribute to its appeal. Furthermore, dydrogesterone's inclusion in international guidelines solidifies its importance in LPD management. Combination therapies, leveraging synergistic effects, offer a comprehensive approach. As gaps in knowledge persist, future research directions and personalized treatment strategies pave the way for a future where dydrogesterone stands as a beacon of hope in conquering the challenges of LPD and achieving successful reproductive outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaikh Muneeba
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Neema Acharya
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Shazia Mohammad
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
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13
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Kolcsár M, Berecki B, Gáll Z. Relationship between Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Levels and Hormonal Status in Infertile Women: A Retrospective Study. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:3024. [PMID: 37835767 PMCID: PMC10572638 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13193024] [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: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Infertility is a prevalent issue that affects 10-18% of couples worldwide, and up to 30% in Eastern Europe. Infertility of unknown etiology is one of the most challenging forms of infertility. Vitamin D has recently been extensively studied and researchers are investigating its possible role in ovulation and pregnancy. While the evidence suggests a positive association between vitamin D and ovulation, more research is needed to understand the role that vitamin D plays in ovulation. (2) Methods: In this study, 86 infertile patients were studied retrospectively in a single center by analyzing their anthropometric (body mass index), biochemical (total cholesterol, insulin resistance) and hormonal data in correlation with their vitamin D status. (3) Results: It was found that the mid-luteal progesterone level was significantly related to the 25-hydroxy vitamin D level in a multivariate linear regression model. An analysis of subgroups of ovulatory and anovulatory patients suggests that serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels of approximately 20 ng/mL may be necessary to trigger ovulation or to support progesterone secretion. (4) Conclusions: Vitamin D deficiency should be considered when infertility of unknown etiology and progesterone-related disorders occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda Kolcsár
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Targu Mures, Gheorghe Marinescu Street 38, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania;
| | - Bernadett Berecki
- Faculty of Medicine, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Targu Mures, Gheorghe Marinescu Street 38, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania;
| | - Zsolt Gáll
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Targu Mures, Gheorghe Marinescu Street 38, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania;
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14
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Coker SJ, Dyson RM, Smith-Díaz CC, Vissers MCM, Berry MJ. Effects of Low Vitamin C Intake on Fertility Parameters and Pregnancy Outcomes in Guinea Pigs. Nutrients 2023; 15:4107. [PMID: 37836389 PMCID: PMC10574174 DOI: 10.3390/nu15194107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Identifying how specific nutrients can impact fertility, pregnancy, and neonatal outcomes will yield important insights into the biological mechanisms linking diet and reproductive health. Our study investigates how dietary vitamin C intake affects various fertility parameters and pregnancy and neonatal outcomes in the guinea pig, a natural model of vitamin C dependency. Dunkin Hartley guinea pigs were fed an optimal (900 mg/kg feed) or low (100 mg/kg feed) vitamin C diet ad libitum for at least three weeks prior to mating and throughout pregnancy. We found that animals receiving the low vitamin C diet had an increased number of unsuccessful matings, a higher incidence of foetal reabsorption, and, among pregnancies resulting in delivery at term, produced fewer offspring. Neonates from mothers on the low vitamin C diet had significantly decreased plasma vitamin C concentrations at birth and exhibited mild growth impairments in a sex-dependent manner. We conclude that a diet low of vitamin C induces a state of subfertility, reduces overall fecundity, and adversely impacts both pregnancy outcomes and growth in the offspring. Our study provides an essential foundation for future investigations to determine whether these findings translate to humans. If so, they could have important clinical implications for assisted reproductive technologies and nutritional recommendations for couples trying to conceive, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharna J. Coker
- Perinatal and Developmental Physiology Group, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Otago, Wellington 6242, New Zealand; (S.J.C.); (R.M.D.)
| | - Rebecca M. Dyson
- Perinatal and Developmental Physiology Group, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Otago, Wellington 6242, New Zealand; (S.J.C.); (R.M.D.)
| | - Carlos C. Smith-Díaz
- Mātai Hāora—Centre for Redox Biology and Medicine, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand;
| | - Margreet C. M. Vissers
- Mātai Hāora—Centre for Redox Biology and Medicine, Department of Pathology and Biomedical Science, University of Otago, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand;
| | - Mary J. Berry
- Perinatal and Developmental Physiology Group, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Otago, Wellington 6242, New Zealand; (S.J.C.); (R.M.D.)
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15
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Cordova-Gomez A, Wong AP, Sims LB, Doncel GF, Dorflinger LJ. Potential biomarkers to predict return to fertility after discontinuation of female contraceptives-looking to the future. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023; 5:1210083. [PMID: 37674657 PMCID: PMC10477712 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2023.1210083] [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: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Nowadays there are multiple types of contraceptive methods, from reversible to permanent, for those choosing to delay pregnancy. Misconceptions about contraception and infertility are a key factor for discontinuation or the uptake of family planning methods. Regaining fertility (the ability to conceive) after contraceptive discontinuation is therefore pivotal. Technical studies to date have evaluated return to fertility by assessing pregnancy as an outcome, with variable results, or return to ovulation as a surrogate measure by assessing hormone levels (such as progesterone, LH, FSH) with or without transvaginal ultrasound. In general, relying on time to pregnancy as an indicator of return to fertility following contraceptive method discontinuation can be problematic due to variable factors independent of contraceptive effects on fertility, hormone clearance, and fertility recovery. Since the ability to conceive after contraceptive method discontinuation is a critical factor influencing product uptake, it is important to have robust biomarkers that easily and accurately predict the timing of fertility return following contraception and isolate that recovery from extrinsic and circumstantial factors. The main aim of this review is to summarize the current approaches, existing knowledge, and gaps in methods of evaluating return-to-fertility as well as to provide insights into the potential of new biomarkers to more accurately predict fertility restoration after contraceptive discontinuation. Biomarker candidates proposed in this document include those associated with folliculogenesis, cumulus cell expansion, follicular rupture and ovulation, and endometrial transport and receptivity which have been selected and scored on predefined criteria meant to evaluate their probable viability for advancement. The review also describes limitations, regulatory requirements, and a potential path to clinically testing these selected biomarkers. It is important to understand fertility restoration after contraceptive method discontinuation to provide users and health providers with accurate evidence-based information. Predictive biomarkers, if easy and low-cost, have the potential to enable robust evaluation of RTF, and provide potential users the information they desire when selecting a contraceptive method. This could lead to expanded uptake and continuation of modern contraception and inform the development of new contraceptive methods to widen user's family planning choices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Cordova-Gomez
- Office of Population and Reproductive Health, USAID/Public Health Institute, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Andrew P. Wong
- CONRAD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - Lee B. Sims
- Office of Population and Reproductive Health, USAID/Public Health Institute, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Gustavo F. Doncel
- CONRAD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - Laneta J. Dorflinger
- Department of Product Development and Introduction, FHI 360, Durham, NC, United States
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16
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Aygün EG, Özbaşlı E, Köse MF. The Effect of Different Luteal Phase Support Applications on Clinical Pregnancy Outcomes in Frozen-Thawed Embryo Transfer. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 2023:8157210. [PMID: 37529251 PMCID: PMC10390266 DOI: 10.1155/2023/8157210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
Purpose During the frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) method, controlled ovarian hyperstimulation is used. At the same time, progesterone support is given for luteal phase support. In this study, we investigated the effects of various luteal phase support agents administered orally, intramuscularly (IM), and vaginally during FET on pregnancy rates. Methods The files of 166 patients between the ages of 21 and 44 in the Assisted Reproductive Techniques Center of Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University Atakent Hospital were analyzed retrospectively between 2016 and 2022. The patients' FSH, LH, E2, P4, AMH, and TSH levels were measured. The GnRH antagonist protocol was initiated on the 2nd or 3rd day of menstruation. Three types of progesterone agents were used in females with PCOS. Three different methods were applied: 50 mg/ml of IM progesterone daily, 90 mg of progesterone gel 2∗1 vaginally, and dydrogesterone acetate tb. orally 3∗1. FET was performed on women who received 21 days of treatment by thawing 5th-day embryos. B-hCG was performed on the 12th day after the transfer, and evaluations were made. The study results were evaluated as follows: for the whole study group, for those <30 years of age, for those 30-35 years of age, and for those >35 years of age. Results A total of 164 patients, 57 females using vaginal progesterone gel, 30 females using oral progesterone tablet, and 77 females using IM progesterone, who met the inclusion criteria, were included in the study. The pregnancy outcomes of IM progesterone application were statistically significantly higher in the entire study group and the >35 age group when compared to the vaginal progesterone gel application. It was found that the pregnancy outcomes of IM progesterone application increased statistically significantly in the <30 age group when compared to outcomes in the other groups, using vaginal progesterone gel and oral progesterone tb. Conclusions We found that IM progesterone application was more effective than vaginal progesterone gel application for luteal phase support. Many randomized controlled, especially live birth rate studies, are required before results can more closely approximate those for the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elif Ganime Aygün
- Atakent Hospital, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Esra Özbaşlı
- School of Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Faruk Köse
- School of Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University, Istanbul, Turkey
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17
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Hills E, Woodland MB, Divaraniya A. Using Hormone Data and Age to Pinpoint Cycle Day within the Menstrual Cycle. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1348. [PMID: 37512159 PMCID: PMC10384168 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59071348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Menstrual cycle tracking is essential for reproductive health and overall well-being. However, there is still an over-reliance on estimations that standard cycles are 28 days long, divided evenly between the follicular and luteal phases. Due to the variability of cycle length and cycle phase lengths, common methods of identifying where an individual is in their cycle are often inaccurate. This study used daily hormone monitoring obtained through a remote hormone-monitoring platform to evaluate hormone levels across a menstrual cycle to identify nuances in the follicular and luteal phases in individuals of different age groups. Materials and Methods: This study used a remote fertility testing system that quantitatively tracks luteinizing hormone (LH) and pregnanediol-3-glucuronide (PdG) through urine tests read by an AI-powered smartphone app. The study analyzed cycle data from 1233 users with a total of 4123 evaluated cycles. Daily levels for LH and PdG were monitored across multiple cycles. Results: This study determined that calculated cycle lengths tended to be shorter than user-reported cycle lengths. Significant differences were observed in cycle phase lengths between age groups, indicating that follicular phase length declines with age while luteal phase length increases. Finally, the study found that if an individual's age, first cycle day, and current hormone levels are known, population-level hormone data can be used to pinpoint which cycle phase and cycle day they are in with 95% confidence. Conclusions: At-home hormone monitoring technologies can allow patients and clinicians to track their cycles with greater precision than when relying on textbook estimations. The study's findings have implications for fertility planning, clinical management, and general health monitoring. Prior to this study, no standard existed for pinpointing where a person was in their cycle through only one measure of LH and PdG. These findings have the potential to fill significant gaps within reproductive healthcare and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elinor Hills
- Oova, Inc., 335 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10017, USA
| | - Mark B Woodland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reading Hospital-/Tower Health, West Reading, PA 19611, USA
- Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine, Harrisburg, PA 17110, USA
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18
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Taiwo OA, Dosumu OA, James AS, Ugwor EI, Ojo OA, Dedeke GA, Ademuyiwa O. Pre-puberty cannabichromene exposure modulates reproductive function via alteration of spermatogenesis, steroidogenesis, and eNOS pathway metabolites. Toxicol Rep 2023; 10:690-705. [PMID: 37396845 PMCID: PMC10313885 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2023.06.001] [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: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cannabis and cannabinoids affect almost every system of the body and exert systemic effects such as alterations in memory and cognitive functions, neurotransmission impediment, as well as obstruction of endocrine and reproductive system functions. Reproduction is a complicated phenomenon that integrates biological, psychological and behavioural aspects, hence susceptible to intracellular and extracellular modulations by numerous chemicals and toxicants like cannabis. Aim The effects of early-life exposure to cannabis on reproductive function biomarkers and genes were investigated in male and female Wistar rats in this study. Method An initial computational analysis (molecular docking and induced fit docking) of some cannabinoids with reproductive enzymes; androgen and follicle stimulating hormone receptors was conducted. Overall, cannabichromene (CBC) had the best IFD scores and binding free energies for the two proteins studied and it interacted with notable amino acids within their active sites. Subsequently, forty (40) Wistar rats, 20 male and 20 female (24-28 days old, weighing 20-28 ± 2 g) were divided into two groups each and orally administered CBC for 21 days. Penile tissues, testes and ovaries, were collected for biochemical analysis (hormonal assays, enzyme activities, and metabolite concentrations), gene expressions, and histological evaluations. Results Activities of arginase and phosphodiesterase-5 in the penile tissue were significantly increased, while nitric oxide and calcium levels were significantly (p < 0.05) decreased in the CBC-exposed groups relative to the control group. Semen analysis showed significantly more abnormalities and decreased concentration of spermatozoa in the CBC-exposed group compared to the control. Activities of 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and cholesterol level were decreased in both testes and ovaries of CBC-exposed groups. Furthermore, levels of testosterone, progesterone, luteinizing, and follicle-stimulating hormones were reduced in the serum of CBC rats. Moreover, relative expressions of androgen receptor and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor genes were significantly downregulated in the CBC-exposed groups. Histological evaluations revealed lesions, tubular necrosis, and cellular congestions in both the testes and ovaries. Conclusion This study suggests that pre-puberty exposure to cannabis modulates reproductive functions via cannabichromene inhibition of steroidogenesis, stimulation of erectile dysfunction (modulation of intermediates and enzymes of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) pathway in the penile tissue), and downregulation of the expressions of genes associated with reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Odunayo Anthonia Taiwo
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Natural and Applied Sciences, Chrisland University, Ajebo Abeokuta, Ogun-state, Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Biosciences, Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Nigeria
| | - Oluwatosin Adebisi Dosumu
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Biosciences, Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Nigeria
| | - Adewale Segun James
- Faculty of Science, Department of Chemical Sciences (Biochemistry Programme), Augustine University, Ilara-Epe, Nigeria
| | | | - Oluwafemi Adeleke Ojo
- Phytomedicine, Molecular Toxicology, and Computational Biochemistry Research Laboratory (PMTCB-RL) Department of Biochemistry, Bowen University, 232101 Iwo, Nigeria
| | - Gabriel Adewunmi Dedeke
- Department of Pure and Applied Zoology, College of Biosciences, Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Nigeria
| | - Oladipo Ademuyiwa
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Biosciences, Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Nigeria
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19
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De M, Chen L, Zeng L, Wang Y, Yang R, Li R, Chi H. Effects of two different types of luteal support on pregnancy outcomes following antagonist fresh embryo transfer: a retrospective study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2023; 23:316. [PMID: 37142960 PMCID: PMC10158007 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-05570-0] [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: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Only a small number of studies have reported the use of progesterone vaginal gel in combination with dydrogesterone as part of the antagonist protocol for fresh embryo transfer. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the effects of two types of luteal support on pregnancy outcomes following the antagonist protocol for fresh embryo transfer. METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis of clinical data from infertile patients who underwent fresh embryo transfer via the antagonist protocol (2785 cycles) between February and July 2019 and between February and July 2021 at the Peking University Third Hospital Reproductive Medicine Centre. According to the luteal support received, the cycle groups were divided into the progesterone vaginal gel group (single medication or VP group; 1170 cycles) and the progesterone vaginal gel plus dydrogesterone group (combination medication or DYD + VP group; 1615 cycles). After propensity score matching, the clinical pregnancy, ongoing pregnancy, early miscarriage, and ectopic pregnancy rates were compared between the two groups. RESULTS In total, 1057 pairs of cycles were successfully matched via propensity scores. The clinical and ongoing pregnancy rates in the combination medication group were significantly higher than those in the single medication group (P < 0.05), whereas no significant differences were noted in the early miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy rates between the two groups (both P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Combined luteal support after the antagonist protocol is preferred for patients undergoing fresh cycle embryo transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minji De
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49, North Garden Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ewenki People's Hospital, Hulunbuir, 021100, China
| | - Lixue Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49, North Garden Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Lin Zeng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49, North Garden Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
- Clinical Epidemiology Research Center, Peking University Third Hospital, No.49, North Garden Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49, North Garden Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Rui Yang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49, North Garden Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Rong Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49, North Garden Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Hongbin Chi
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49, North Garden Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China.
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Steiniche T, Foerster S, White KE, Monfort S, Brown JL, Chowdhury S, Swedell L. Elevated glucocorticoids during the ovarian follicular phase predict conception in wild female chacma baboons. Horm Behav 2023; 152:105354. [PMID: 37079971 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2023.105354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Mating related behavior during ovarian cycling can be energetically demanding and constitute a significant stressor, requiring physiological responses to mediate investment in reproduction. To better understand the proximate mechanisms underlying these responses, we examine hormonal and behavioral variation across the ovarian cycle during conceptive and nonconceptive cycles in wild female chacma baboons (Papio ursinus). We quantified immunoreactive fecal estradiol, progesterone, and cortisol metabolites for 21 adult females, and calculated activity budgets and rates of received aggression from over 5000 15-min behavioral samples. We found conception to be associated with higher concentrations of both estradiol and cortisol during the follicular phase, but no difference in progesterone between conceptive and nonconceptive cycles for either the follicular or luteal phase. While females spent less time feeding during the follicular compared to the luteal phase, we found no difference in time spent feeding, moving, or copulating between conceptive and nonconceptive cycles of the same phase. Rates of received aggression also were similar across the ovarian cycle, with no difference between conceptive and nonconceptive cycles. Finally, we found positive associations between cortisol and estradiol, indicating that glucocorticoids (GCs) do not suppress hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) activity and reproductive function in this context. Overall, our results suggest that elevated GCs may play an adaptive role in mobilizing energy during sexually receptive periods of ovarian cycling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Steven Monfort
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA, USA
| | - Janine L Brown
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA, USA
| | - Shahrina Chowdhury
- Brooklyn College, City University of New York, Brooklyn, NY, USA; New York Consortium in Evolutionary Primatology, New York, NY, USA
| | - Larissa Swedell
- Queens College, City University New York, Flushing, NY, USA; New York Consortium in Evolutionary Primatology, New York, NY, USA; University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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21
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Vidal A, Dhakal C, Werth N, Weiss JM, Lehnick D, Kohl Schwartz AS. Supplementary dydrogesterone is beneficial as luteal phase support in artificial frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles compared to micronized progesterone alone. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1128564. [PMID: 36992810 PMCID: PMC10042263 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1128564] [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] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The number of frozen embryo transfers increased substantially in recent years. To increase the chances of implantation, endometrial receptivity and embryo competency must be synchronized. Maturation of the endometrium is facilitated by sequential administration of estrogens, followed by administration of progesterone prior to embryo transfer. The use of progesterone is crucial for pregnancy outcomes. This study compares the reproductive outcomes and tolerability of five different regimens of hormonal luteal phase support in artificial frozen embryo transfer cycles, with the objective of determining the best progesterone luteal phase support in this context. Design This is a single-center retrospective cohort study of all women undergoing frozen embryo transfers between 2013 and 2019. After sufficient endometrial thickness was achieved by estradiol, luteal phase support was initiated. The following five different progesterone applications were compared: 1) oral dydrogesterone (30 mg/day), 2) vaginal micronized progesterone gel (90 mg/day), 3) dydrogesterone (20 mg/day) plus micronized progesterone gel (90 mg/day) (dydrogesterone + micronized progesterone gel), 4) micronized progesterone capsules (600 mg/day), and (5) subcutaneous injection of progesterone 25 mg/day (subcutan-P4). The vaginal micronized progesterone gel application served as the reference group. Ultrasound was performed after 12-15 days of oral estrogen (≥4 mg/day) administration. If the endometrial thickness was ≥7 mm, luteal phase support was started, up to six days before frozen embryo transfer, depending on the development of the frozen embryo. The primary outcome was the clinical pregnancy rate. Secondary outcomes included live birth rate, ongoing pregnancy, and miscarriage and biochemical pregnancy rate. Results In total, 391 cycles were included in the study (median age of study participants 35 years; IQR 32-38 years, range 26-46 years). The proportions of blastocysts and single transferred embryos were lower in the micronized progesterone gel group. Differences among the five groups in other baseline characteristics were not significant. Multiple logistic regression analysis, adjusting for pre-defined covariates, showed that the clinical pregnancy rates were higher in the oral dydrogesterone only group (OR = 2.87, 95% CI 1.38-6.00, p=0.005) and in the dydrogesterone + micronized progesterone gel group (OR = 5.19, 95% CI 1.76-15.36, p = 0.003) compared to micronized progesterone gel alone. The live birth rate was higher in the oral dydrogesterone-only group (OR = 2.58; 95% CI 1.11-6.00; p=0.028) and showed no difference in the smaller dydrogesterone + micronized progesterone gel group (OR = 2.49; 95% CI 0.74-8.38; p=0.14) compared with the reference group. Conclusion The application of dydrogesterone in addition to micronized progesterone gel was associated with higher clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate and then the use of micronized progesterone gel alone. DYD should be evaluated as a promising LPS option in FET Cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Vidal
- Division of Reproductive Medicine and Gynecological Endocrinology, Lucerne Cantonal Hospital, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Carolin Dhakal
- Fertisuisse Center for Reproductive Medicine, Olten, Switzerland
| | - Nathalie Werth
- Division of Reproductive Medicine and Gynecological Endocrinology, Lucerne Cantonal Hospital, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | | | - Dirk Lehnick
- Biostatistics and Methodology CTU-CS (Clinical Trial Unit – Central Switzerland), University of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Alexandra Sabrina Kohl Schwartz
- Division of Reproductive Medicine and Gynecological Endocrinology, Lucerne Cantonal Hospital, Lucerne, Switzerland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bern University Hospital, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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22
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Guha P, Sen K, Chowdhury P, Mukherjee D. Estrogen receptors as potential therapeutic target in endometrial cancer. J Recept Signal Transduct Res 2023; 43:19-26. [PMID: 36883690 DOI: 10.1080/10799893.2023.2187643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
Endometrial cancer (EC) is one of the most common gynecological carcinomas in both developed and developing countries. Majority of the gynecological malignancies are hormonally driven where estrogen signaling acts as an oncogenic signal. Estrogen's effects are mediated via classical nuclear estrogen receptors; estrogen receptor alpha and beta (ERα and ERβ) and a trans-membrane G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPR30 and GPER). ERs and GPER through ligand binding triggers multiple downstream signaling pathways causing cell cycle regulation, cell differentiation, migration, and apoptosis in various tissues including endometrium. Although the molecular aspect of estrogen function in ER-mediated signaling is now partly understood, the same is not true for GPER-mediated signaling in endometrial malignancies. Understanding the physiological roles of ERα and GPER in EC biology therefore leads to the identification of some novel therapeutic targets. Here we review the effect of estrogen signaling through ERα-and GPER in EC, major types, and some affordable treatment approaches for endometrial tumor patients which has interesting implications in understanding uterine cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Payel Guha
- Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani, India.,Department of Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics, Tripura University, Suryamaninagar, India
| | - Koushik Sen
- Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani, India.,Department of Zoology, Jhargram Raj College, Jhargram, India
| | | | - Dilip Mukherjee
- Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani, India
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23
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Mlyczyńska E, Zaobidna E, Rytelewska E, Dobrzyń K, Kieżun M, Kopij G, Szymańska K, Kurowska P, Dall'Aglio C, Smolińska N, Kamiński T, Rak A. Expression and regulation of visfatin/NAMPT in the porcine corpus luteum during the estrous cycle and early pregnancy. Anim Reprod Sci 2023; 250:107212. [PMID: 36913896 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2023.107212] [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: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023]
Abstract
Visfatin/NAMPT creates a hormonal link between energy metabolism and female reproduction. A recent study documented visfatin expression in the ovary and its action on follicular cells; however, the expression of visfatin in luteal cells is still unknown. The aim of this study, therefore, was to investigate the transcript and protein expression of visfatin as well as its immunolocalization in the corpus luteum (CL) and to examine the involvement of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK1/2) in the regulation of visfatin level in response to LH, insulin, progesterone (P4), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and F2α (PGF2α). Corpora lutea were harvested from gilts on days 2-3, 10-12 and 14-16 of the estrous cycle and on days 10-11, 12-13, 15-16 and 27-28 of pregnancy. The current study demonstrated that visfatin expression depends on hormonal status related to the phase of the estrous cycle or early pregnancy. Visfatin was immunolocalized to the cytoplasm of small and large luteal cells. Moreover, visfatin protein abundance was increased by P4, and decreased by both prostaglandins, while LH and insulin have modulatory effects, depending on the phase of the cycle. Interestingly, LH, P4 and PGE2 effects were abolished in response to the inhibition of ERK1/2 kinase. Thus, this study demonstrated that expression of visfatin in the porcine CL is determined by the endocrine status related to the estrous cycle and early pregnancy and by the action of LH, insulin, P4 and prostaglandins via activation of the ERK1/2 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Mlyczyńska
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland; Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Poland
| | - Ewa Zaobidna
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Edyta Rytelewska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Kamil Dobrzyń
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Marta Kieżun
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Kopij
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Karolina Szymańska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Patrycja Kurowska
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - Cecylia Dall'Aglio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Nina Smolińska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Tadeusz Kamiński
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Rak
- Laboratory of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland.
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24
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Successful Implementation of Menstrual Cycle Biomarkers in the Treatment of Infertility in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome-Case Report. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11040616. [PMID: 36833150 PMCID: PMC9956032 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11040616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of anovulatory infertility. Absent, impaired, or rare ovulation induces progesterone deficiency in the luteal phase, which is a critical problem in PCOS. A usual pattern of progesterone administration from a fixed and arbitrary pre-determined day of a menstrual cycle may preserve infertility but can easily be avoided. We present the case of a 29-year-old infertile woman who had been ineffectively treated for over two years. We introduced a line of therapy that was suited to her individual menstrual cycle by implementing biomarker recording. Supplementation based on a standardized observation of the basal body temperature (BBT) and cervical mucus stopped the vicious circle of absent ovulation and hyperandrogenism, restoring regular bleeding, ovulation cycles, and fertility. The implementation of a reliable fertility awareness method (FAM), accompanied by a standardized teaching methodology and periodic review of the observations recorded by the patient, validated through an ultrasound examination and plasma gonadotropins, estrogens, and progesterone concentrations, is key to achieving therapeutic success. The presented case is an example of a clinical vignette for many patients who have successfully managed to improve their fertility and pregnancy outcomes by applying the principles of a personalized treatment approach together with gestagens by recording their fertility biomarkers.
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25
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Glasier A, Edelman A, Creinin MD, Brache V, Westhoff CL, Han L, Chen MJ, Hemon A. The effect of deliberate non-adherence to a norgestrel progestin-only pill: A randomized, crossover study. Contraception 2023; 117:1-6. [PMID: 36130667 DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2022.09.002] [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: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To estimate the effects on cervical mucus, ovarian activity and theoretical contraceptive protection of a 6-hour delay and of missing one norgestrel 0.075 mg progestogen-only pill. STUDY DESIGN In a prospective, two-site, randomized, crossover study, healthy women aged 18 to 35 with BMI <32.0 kg/m² and regular ovulatory cycles completed a baseline 28-day cycle with correct daily pill use followed by two intervention cycles in which, around mid-cycle, one pill was taken 6 hours late or missed completely. We undertook ovarian ultrasonography, estradiol and progesterone measurement, and cervical mucus assessments every 3 to 4 days (daily around the time of the incorrect use) and based the theoretical contraceptive protection score on ovarian activity status, cervical mucus and their temporal relationship. RESULTS Of 91 potential participants screened, 52 started the study and 46 provided complete data for each intervention cycle. Fourteen participants (30%) ovulated in each of the two intervention cycles, with four during the delayed pill cycle and two during the missed pill cycle having an abnormal luteal phase. Seven participants in the delayed pill cycle, and six with a missed pill had elevated cervical mucus scores temporally associated with the intervention. However only two women, one in the delayed pill cycle and one in the missed pill cycle, had cervical mucus scores in the range considered favorable for fertility. CONCLUSIONS Delayed or missed intake of a single norgestrel 0.075 mg progestogen-only pill appears to have little effect on theoretical contraceptive efficacy. IMPLICATIONS This biomedical study suggests that taking a norgestrel 0.075mg progestogen-only pill 6 hours late or missing one pill have little effect on ovarian activity or cervical mucus and may not jeopardize contraceptive efficacy. Correlation with typical use outcomes is necessary to confirm pregnancy risk with delayed or missed norgestrel intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Glasier
- College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Alison Edelman
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Mitchell D Creinin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | | | - Carolyn L Westhoff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Leo Han
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Melissa J Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
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26
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Pu Y, Ticiani E, Pearl S, Martin D, Veiga-Lopez A. The organotin triphenyltin disrupts cholesterol signaling in mammalian ovarian steroidogenic cells through a combination of LXR and RXR modulation. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2022; 453:116209. [PMID: 35998708 PMCID: PMC9993406 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2022.116209] [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: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Organotins, a chemical family with over 30 congeners to which humans are directly exposed to through food consumption, are a chemical class widely used as stabilizers in polyvinyl chloride, and biocides in antifouling products. Aside from tributyltin (TBT), toxicological information on other organotin congeners, such as triphenyltin (TPT), remains scarce. Our previous work has demonstrated that TBT can interfere with cholesterol trafficking in steroidogenic cells. Given their structural similarities, we hypothesized that TPT, similar to TBT, disrupts intracellular cholesterol transport and impairs steroidogenesis in ovarian theca cells. To test this, human and ovine primary ovarian theca cells were isolated, purified and exposed to TPT at environmentally relevant doses (1 or 10 ng/ml) in pre-luteinized (48 h exposure) or luteinizing cells (72 h exposure). Intracellular cholesterol levels, progesterone, and testosterone secretion and gene expression of nuclear receptors, cholesterol transporters, and steroidogenic enzymes were evaluated. In ovine cells, TPT upregulated StAR, ABCA1, and SREBF1 mRNA and ABCA1 protein in both pre-luteinized and luteinized stages. TPT did not alter intracellular cholesterol or testosterone synthesis, but upregulated progesterone production. Inhibitor and shRNA knockdown approaches were then used to evaluate the role of retinoid X receptor (RXR) and liver X receptor (LXR) on TPT's effects. TPT upregulated ABCA1 and StAR expression was blocked by both LXR and RXR antagonists. TPT's effect on ABCA1 expression was reduced in LXRβ and RXRβ knockdown theca cells. Similar findings were obtained with primary human theca cells. No synergistic effect of TBT and TPT was observed. In conclusion, at an environmentally relevant dose, TPT upregulates theca cell cholesterol transporter ABCA1 expression via RXR and LXR pathways. Similar effects of TPT on human and sheep theca cells supports its conserved mechanism across mammalian theca cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Pu
- Department of Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Elvis Ticiani
- Department of Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sarah Pearl
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sparrow Health System, Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Denny Martin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sparrow Health System, Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Almudena Veiga-Lopez
- Department of Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago, IL, USA; The Chicago Center for Health and Environment, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
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27
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Lacasse JM, Gomez-Perales E, Brake WG. Modeling hormonal contraception in female rats: A framework for studies in behavioral neurobiology. Front Neuroendocrinol 2022; 67:101020. [PMID: 35952797 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2022.101020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Research on hormonal contraceptives (HC) in animal models is lacking, and as a result, so is our understanding of the impact of HC on the brain and behavior. Here, we provide a review of the pharmacology of HC, as well as the methodology and best practices for designing a model of HC in female rats. We outline specific methodological considerations regarding dosing, route of administration, exposure time/timing, and selecting a control group. We also provide a framework outlining important levels of analysis for thinking about the impact of HC on behavioral and neurobiological outcomes. The purpose of this review is to equip researchers with foundational knowledge, and some basic elements of experimental design for future studies investigating the impact of HC on the brain and behavior of female rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse M Lacasse
- Centre for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal H4B 1R6, Canada.
| | - Eamonn Gomez-Perales
- Centre for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal H4B 1R6, Canada
| | - Wayne G Brake
- Centre for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal H4B 1R6, Canada.
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28
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Jia Y, Liu L, Gong S, Li H, Zhang X, Zhang R, Wang A, Jin Y, Lin P. Hand2os1 Regulates the Secretion of Progesterone in Mice Corpus Luteum. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9080404. [PMID: 36006319 PMCID: PMC9415164 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9080404] [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: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The corpus luteum plays a key role in pregnancy maintenance and estrous cycle regulation by secreting progesterone. Hand2os1 is an lncRNA located upstream of Hand2, with which a bidirectional promoter is shared and is involved in the regulation of cardiac development and embryo implantation in mice. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression and regulation of Hand2os1 in the ovaries. Here, we used RNAscope to detect differential expression of Hand2os1 in the ovaries of cycling and pregnant mice. Hand2os1 was specifically detected in luteal cells during the proestrus and estrus phases, showing its highest expression in the corpus luteum at estrus. Additionally, Hand2os1 was strongly expressed in the corpus luteum on day 4 of pregnancy, but the positive signal progressively disappeared after day 8, was detected again on day 18, and gradually decreased after delivery. Hand2os1 significantly promoted the synthesis of progesterone and the expression of StAR and Cyp11a1. The decreased progesterone levels caused by Hand2os1 interference were rescued by the overexpression of StAR. Our findings suggest that Hand2os1 may regulate the secretion of progesterone in the mouse corpus luteum by affecting the key rate-limiting enzyme StAR, which may have an impact on the maintenance of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanni Jia
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China; (Y.J.); (L.L.); (S.G.); (H.L.); (X.Z.); (R.Z.); (A.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Lu Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China; (Y.J.); (L.L.); (S.G.); (H.L.); (X.Z.); (R.Z.); (A.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Suhua Gong
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China; (Y.J.); (L.L.); (S.G.); (H.L.); (X.Z.); (R.Z.); (A.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Haijing Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China; (Y.J.); (L.L.); (S.G.); (H.L.); (X.Z.); (R.Z.); (A.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Xinyan Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China; (Y.J.); (L.L.); (S.G.); (H.L.); (X.Z.); (R.Z.); (A.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Ruixue Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China; (Y.J.); (L.L.); (S.G.); (H.L.); (X.Z.); (R.Z.); (A.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Aihua Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China; (Y.J.); (L.L.); (S.G.); (H.L.); (X.Z.); (R.Z.); (A.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
| | - Yaping Jin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China; (Y.J.); (L.L.); (S.G.); (H.L.); (X.Z.); (R.Z.); (A.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
- Correspondence: (Y.J.); (P.L.)
| | - Pengfei Lin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China; (Y.J.); (L.L.); (S.G.); (H.L.); (X.Z.); (R.Z.); (A.W.)
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang 712100, China
- Correspondence: (Y.J.); (P.L.)
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29
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Liu M, Ge Y, Xu X, Liao L. Quantification of urinary steroids by supported liquid extraction with GC-MS/MS: Unravelling cyclic fluctuations of steroid profiling in regular menstrual cycle. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2022; 216:114789. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2022.114789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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30
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Glasier A, Edelman A, Creinin MD, Han L, Matulich MC, Brache V, Westhoff CL, Hemon A. Mechanism of action of norgestrel 0.075 mg a progestogen-only pill. I. Effect on ovarian activity. Contraception 2022; 112:37-42. [PMID: 35351445 DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2022.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the effect on ovarian activity and ovulation of 28 days of correct daily use of a progestogen-only pill containing norgestrel 0.075 mg. STUDY DESIGN We performed a prospective, randomized, cross-over study at two US sites, recruiting healthy women of reproductive age to use norgestrel 0.075 mg daily for three 28-day treatment cycles. We monitored ovarian activity every 3-4 days with reproductive hormone measurements and ovarian ultrasonography. Participants recorded pill use in daily diaries. An adjudication committee independent of the research sites assessed ovarian activity using a modified Hoogland score combining hormone concentrations and follicle diameter and appearance (quiescence 1-3, ovarian activity without ovulation 4-5, and ovulatory/postovulatory 6-7). RESULTS We report here the findings of the initial 28-day treatment cycle in which 51/52 recruited participants provided data sufficient for analysis. Two thirds of subjects had no evidence of ovulation (34/51, 66.6%); eight of these (15.7%) had quiescent ovaries (follicle <13 mm diameter) and 26 (51%) had follicular development (follicle >13 mm diameter) without ovulation. Seventeen participants ovulated, of whom 12 (23.5%) had a normal, and 5 (9.8%) an abnormal luteal phase. Persistent ovarian follicles were common among women who had ovarian activity without ovulation, 17/26 participants (65.4%) had a large follicle which persisted beyond 28 days. CONCLUSION During 28 days of exposure to a norgestrel 0.075 mg progestogen-only pill, most women had no evidence of ovulation. IMPLICATIONS Ovulation inhibition and follicle growth disturbance are important in the mechanism of action of a progestogen-only pill containing norgestrel 0.075 mg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Glasier
- College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Alison Edelman
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Mitchell D Creinin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Leo Han
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Melissa C Matulich
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Vivian Brache
- Asociación Dominicana Pro Bienestar de la Familia, Inc. (PROFAMILIA), Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Carolyn L Westhoff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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Martínez-Alarcón O, García-López G, Guerra-Mora JR, Molina-Hernández A, Diaz-Martínez NE, Portillo W, Díaz NF. Prolactin from Pluripotency to Central Nervous System Development. Neuroendocrinology 2022; 112:201-214. [PMID: 33934093 DOI: 10.1159/000516939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Prolactin (PRL) is a versatile hormone that exerts more than 300 functions in vertebrates, mainly associated with physiological effects in adult animals. Although the process that regulates early development is poorly understood, evidence suggests a role of PRL in the early embryonic development regarding pluripotency and nervous system development. Thus, PRL could be a crucial regulator in oocyte preimplantation and maturation as well as during diapause, a reversible state of blastocyst development arrest that shares metabolic, transcriptomic, and proteomic similarities with pluripotent stem cells in the naïve state. Thus, we analyzed the role of the hormone during those processes, which involve the regulation of its receptor and several signaling cascades (Jak/Mapk, Jak/Stat, and PI3k/Akt), resulting in either a plethora of physiological actions or their dysregulation, a factor in developmental disorders. Finally, we propose models to improve the knowledge on PRL function during early development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Martínez-Alarcón
- Departamento de Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Guadalupe García-López
- Departamento de Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - José Raúl Guerra-Mora
- Departamento de Neurociencias, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Ciudad de México, Mexico
- Departamento de Cirugia Experimental, Instituto Nacional de Nutrición, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Anayansi Molina-Hernández
- Departamento de Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Néstor Emmanuel Diaz-Martínez
- Laboratorio de Reprogramación Celular y Bioingeniería de Tejidos, Biotecnología Médica y Farmacéutica CONACYT, Centro de Investigación y Asistencia en Tecnología y Diseño del Estado de Jalisco, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - Wendy Portillo
- Departamento de Neurobiología Conductual y Cognitiva, Instituto de Neurobiología, UNAM, Quéretaro, Mexico
| | - Néstor Fabián Díaz
- Departamento de Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, Ciudad de México, Mexico
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Kale AR, Kale AA, Yelikar K. A Comparative, Randomized Control Trial in Patients of Per Vaginal Bleeding Comparing Efficacy of Oral Dydrogesterone Versus Vaginal Progesterone in Successful Pregnancy Outcome for Patients with Recurrent Pregnancy Loss. J Obstet Gynaecol India 2021; 71:591-595. [PMID: 34898896 DOI: 10.1007/s13224-021-01473-2] [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] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Progesterone is essential for the maintenance of a healthy pregnancy. Any defect in the secretion of human chorionic gonadotropin or progesterone is associated with a significantly increased risk of first-trimester abortion. Progesterone is frequently prescribed to patients presenting with per vaginal (PV) bleeding in early pregnancy and a history of recurrent pregnancy loss. Methods Pregnant women up to 12 weeks of gestation with a history of more than two early pregnancy losses and presenting with vaginal bleeding were included in this study. All subjects were randomized to receive either vaginal progesterone 600 mg/day or oral dydrogesterone 30 mg/day. A detailed history-including menstrual history, previous pregnancies, previous miscarriages, and other risk factors-was obtained. The mean time required for the cessation of PV bleeding and continuation of pregnancy up to 24 weeks and till term was compared. Results A total of 200 patients were randomized to vaginal progesterone 600 mg/day (n = 100) or oral dydrogesterone 30 mg/day (n = 100). While 74 patients had two miscarriages in the progesterone group, 68 patients had two miscarriages in the dydrogesterone group. The time required for complete cessation of bleeding was significantly lesser among patients who received oral dydrogesterone compared to those who received intravaginal progesterone (53.90 ± 9.09 vs. 94.60 ± 7.29 h, p < 0.0001). Numerically higher number of patients receiving oral dydrogesterone had a successful continuation of pregnancy up to 24 weeks of gestation, as well as till full term compared to progesterone group (70 vs. 75). Conclusion Oral dydrogesterone is preferred over vaginal progesterone in patients presenting with vaginal bleeding during early pregnancy and a history of recurrent early pregnancy loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Ramchandra Kale
- Ashakiran Hospitals and Asha IVF Centre, 555, Narsinha Chintamani Kelkar Road, Narayan Peth, Pune, Maharashtra 411030 India
| | - Ashwini Ashish Kale
- Ashakiran Hospitals and Asha IVF Centre, 555, Narsinha Chintamani Kelkar Road, Narayan Peth, Pune, Maharashtra 411030 India
| | - Kanan Yelikar
- Ashwini Hospital, Govt Medical College & Hospital, Aurangabad, MS India
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Hart RJ, D'Hooghe T, Dancet EAF, Aurell R, Lunenfeld B, Orvieto R, Pellicer A, Polyzos NP, Zheng W. Self-Monitoring of Urinary Hormones in Combination with Telemedicine - a Timely Review and Opinion Piece in Medically Assisted Reproduction. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:3147-3160. [PMID: 34780023 PMCID: PMC8592080 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00754-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Cycle monitoring via ultrasound and serum-based hormonal assays during medically assisted reproduction (MAR) can provide information on ovarian response and assist in optimizing treatment strategies in addition to reducing complications such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Two surveys conducted in 2019 and 2020, including overall 24 fertility specialists from Europe, Asia and Latin America, confirmed that the majority of fertility practitioners routinely conduct hormone monitoring during MAR. However, blood tests may cause inconvenience to patients. The reported drawbacks of blood tests identified by the survey included the validity of results from different service providers, long waiting times and discomfort to patients due to travelling to clinics for tests and repeated venepunctures. Historically, urine-based assays were used by fertility specialists in clinics but were subsequently replaced by more practical and automated serum-based assays. A remote urine-based hormonal assay could be an alternative to current serum-based testing at clinics, reducing the inconvenience of blood tests and the frequency of appointments, waiting times and patient burden. Here we provide an overview of the current standard of care for cycle monitoring and review the literature to assess the correlation between urine-based hormonal assays and serum-based hormonal assays during MAR. In addition, in this review, we discuss the evidence supporting the introduction of remote urine-based hormonal monitoring as part of a novel digital health solution that includes remote ultrasound and tele-counselling to link clinics and patients at home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger J Hart
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Western Australia & Fertility Specialists of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Thomas D'Hooghe
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, R&D Healthcare, the healthcare business of Merck KGaA, Frankfurter Str. 250, 64293, Darmstadt, Germany
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Eline A F Dancet
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Leuven University Fertility Centre, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ramón Aurell
- IVF Unit, Fertility Campus Hospital Quirónsalud Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Bruno Lunenfeld
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Raoul Orvieto
- Infertility and IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center (Tel Hashomer), Ramat Gan, Israel
- Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- The Tarnesby-Tarnowski Chair for Family Planning and Fertility Regulation, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | - Nikolaos P Polyzos
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus Mujer, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Wenjing Zheng
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, R&D Healthcare, the healthcare business of Merck KGaA, Frankfurter Str. 250, 64293, Darmstadt, Germany.
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34
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Wagh GN, Kundavi Shankar KM, Bachani S. A review of conventional and sustained-release formulations of oral natural micronized progesterone in obstetric indications. Drugs Context 2021; 10:dic-2021-7-1. [PMID: 34721615 PMCID: PMC8527984 DOI: 10.7573/dic.2021-7-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Exogenous progesterone is a treatment option for obstetric indications associated with reduced progesterone activity. Oral natural micronized progesterone (NMP) is effective, although it requires multiple daily doses and may cause adverse events due to its active metabolites. A sustained-release formulation of NMP (NMP-SR) has been developed to overcome the limitations of conventional oral NMP. Methods This narrative review examines the available evidence for oral NMP and NMP-SR in several obstetric indications of interest. Results Literature searches identified 17 studies of oral NMP (luteal phase support during assisted reproduction, prevention of threatened miscarriage, prevention of preterm delivery), and clinical studies supporting use of NMP-SR (luteal phase support during intrauterine insemination, maintenance of high-risk pregnancy). Oral NMP was effective for luteal phase support during in vitro fertilization and intrauterine insemination, prevention of threatened miscarriage, and prevention of preterm delivery. NMP-SR was comparable to dydrogesterone for luteal phase support during intrauterine insemination and effectively maintained high-risk pregnancies. Oral NMP-SR was well tolerated. Conclusions By releasing progesterone gradually and circumventing first-pass metabolism, NMP-SR elicits the desired therapeutic effect with benefits over conventional oral NMP in terms of bioavailability, once-daily dosing and improved tolerability. Oral NMP-SR appears to be a valuable option for treating obstetric conditions associated with insufficient progesterone exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sumitra Bachani
- Vardhman Mahavir Medical College & Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India
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35
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Key to Life: Physiological Role and Clinical Implications of Progesterone. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222011039. [PMID: 34681696 PMCID: PMC8538505 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The most recent studies of progesterone research provide remarkable insights into the physiological role and clinical importance of this hormone. Although the name progesterone itself means “promoting gestation”, this steroid hormone is far more than a gestational agent. Progesterone is recognized as a key physiological component of not only the menstrual cycle and pregnancy but also as an essential steroidogenic precursor of other gonadal and non-gonadal hormones such as aldosterone, cortisol, estradiol, and testosterone. Based on current findings, progesterone and novel progesterone-based drugs have many important functions, including contraception, treatment of dysfunctional uterine bleeding, immune response, and prevention of cancer. Considering the above, reproduction and life are not possible without progesterone; thus, a better understanding of this essential molecule could enable safe and effective use of this hormone in many clinical conditions.
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36
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Beck-Fruchter R, Nothman S, Baram S, Geslevich Y, Weiss A. Progesterone and estrogen levels are associated with live birth rates following artificial cycle frozen embryo transfers. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:2925-2931. [PMID: 34537928 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02307-w] [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] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Does an association exist between serum progesterone and estradiol levels and live birth rates in artificial cycle frozen embryo transfer (AC-FET)? METHODS Retrospective cohort study was based on prospectively collected data at a university-affiliated fertility center. Included were all cycles using an artificial endometrial preparation with estradiol hemihydrate (Estrofem, 2 mg/8 h) and vaginal progesterone (Endometrin 100 mg/8 h), autologous oocytes, and cleavage stage embryo transfers. Serum progesterone and estradiol levels were measured 14 days after FET. A total of 921 cycles in 568 patients from to December 2010 to June 2019 were investigated. Live birth was the primary outcome measure. RESULTS Significant association was found between live birth and progesterone as well as estradiol levels (progesterone 14.65 vs 11.62 ng/ml, p = 0.001; estradiol 355.12 vs 287.67 pg/ml, p = 0.001). A significant difference in live birth rate was found below and above the median progesterone level (10.9 ng/ml, p = 0.007). Lower estradiol level was significantly associated with lower live birth rate (< 188.2 pg/ml 8.3%, > 263.1 pg/ml 16%, p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS Serum progesterone and estradiol levels impact live birth rate in AC-FET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronit Beck-Fruchter
- Fertility Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Emek Medical Center, Afula, Israel. .,Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
| | - Simon Nothman
- Fertility Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Emek Medical Center, Afula, Israel.,Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Shira Baram
- Fertility Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Emek Medical Center, Afula, Israel
| | - Yoel Geslevich
- Fertility Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Emek Medical Center, Afula, Israel
| | - Amir Weiss
- Fertility Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Emek Medical Center, Afula, Israel.,Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
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Han S, Cicek AF, Tokmak A, Yildirir Ustun T, Ercan Gokay N, Uludag MO, Demirel MA. Effects of Resveratrol on Receptor Expression and Serum Levels of Estrogen and Progesterone in the Rat Endometritis Model. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:2610-2622. [PMID: 33966185 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00586-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Endometritis is characterized by inflammation of the endometrial lining that leads to reduced reproductive potential. Restoring the impaired hormonal balance is an important component of endometritis treatment. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the effects of resveratrol on estrogen and progesterone hormone status in endometritis. Mature female Sprague Dawley rats were used, and endometritis was induced by intrauterine infusion of Escherichia coli. Animals were treated with resveratrol alone or combined with marbofloxacin. Compared to the non-treated endometritis group, resveratrol treatment reduced serum oestradiol levels, increased serum progesterone levels, enhanced estrogen receptor (ER) expression in the uterine stroma, decreased ESR1 gene expression, and raised ESR2 gene expression. Resveratrol administration combined with marbofloxacin also increased ER expression in the uterine gland and progesterone receptor expression in the uterine epithelium. The findings of this study suggest that the actions of resveratrol on progesterone levels and estrogen receptor expression might be responsible for its beneficial effect in rats with endometritis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevtap Han
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Gazi University, Etiler, 06330, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Ali Fuat Cicek
- Department of Pathology, Gülhane Research and Education Hospital, Etlik, 06010, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Aytekin Tokmak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Research and Education Hospital, Altindag, 06230, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Tugce Yildirir Ustun
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary, Ankara University, Dışkapı, 06110, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Nilufer Ercan Gokay
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Research and Education Hospital, Altindag, 06230, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mecit Orhan Uludag
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Gazi University, Etiler, 06330, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Murside Ayse Demirel
- Laboratory Animal Care and Research Unit, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Gazi University, Etiler, 06330, Ankara, Turkey
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Foyle KL, Sharkey DJ, Moldenhauer LM, Green ES, Wilson JJ, Roccisano CJ, Hull ML, Tremellen KP, Robertson SA. Effect of Intralipid infusion on peripheral blood T cells and plasma cytokines in women undergoing assisted reproduction treatment. Clin Transl Immunology 2021; 10:e1328. [PMID: 34408876 PMCID: PMC8358997 DOI: 10.1002/cti2.1328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Intravenous infusion of Intralipid is an adjunct therapy in assisted reproduction treatment (ART) when immune‐associated infertility is suspected. Here, we evaluated the effect of Intralipid infusion on regulatory T cells (Treg cells), effector T cells and plasma cytokines in peripheral blood of women undertaking IVF. Methods This prospective, observational pilot study assessed Intralipid infusion in 14 women exhibiting recurrent implantation failure, a clinical sign of immune‐associated infertility. Peripheral blood was collected immediately prior to and 7 days after intravenous administration of Intralipid. Plasma cytokines were measured by Luminex, and T‐cell subsets were analysed by flow cytometry. Results A small increase in conventional CD8+ T cells occurred after Intralipid infusion, but no change was seen in CD4+ Treg cells, or naïve, memory or effector memory T cells. Proliferation marker Ki67, transcription factors Tbet and RORγt, and markers of suppressive capacity CTLA4 and HLA‐DR were unchanged. Dimensionality‐reduction analysis using the tSNE algorithm confirmed no phenotype shift within Treg cells or other T cells. Intralipid infusion increased plasma CCL2, CCL3, CXCL8, GM‐CSF, G‐CSF, IL‐6, IL‐21, TNF and VEGF. Conclusion Intralipid infusion elicited elevated pro‐inflammatory cytokines, and a minor increase in CD8+ T cells, but no change in pro‐tolerogenic Treg cells. Notwithstanding the limitation of no placebo control, the results do not support Intralipid as a candidate intervention to attenuate the Treg cell response in women undergoing ART. Future placebo‐controlled studies are needed to confirm the potential efficacy and clinical significance of Intralipid in attenuating cytokine induction and circulating CD8+ T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerrie L Foyle
- Robinson Research Institute Adelaide Medical School University of Adelaide Adelaide SA Australia
| | - David J Sharkey
- Robinson Research Institute Adelaide Medical School University of Adelaide Adelaide SA Australia
| | - Lachlan M Moldenhauer
- Robinson Research Institute Adelaide Medical School University of Adelaide Adelaide SA Australia
| | - Ella S Green
- Robinson Research Institute Adelaide Medical School University of Adelaide Adelaide SA Australia
| | - Jasmine J Wilson
- Robinson Research Institute Adelaide Medical School University of Adelaide Adelaide SA Australia
| | - Cassandra J Roccisano
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences University of South Australia Adelaide SA Australia
| | - M Louise Hull
- Robinson Research Institute Adelaide Medical School University of Adelaide Adelaide SA Australia
| | - Kelton P Tremellen
- School of Medicine Flinders University Adelaide SA Australia.,Repromed Pty Ltd Dulwich SA Australia
| | - Sarah A Robertson
- Robinson Research Institute Adelaide Medical School University of Adelaide Adelaide SA Australia
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Vitzthum VJ, Thornburg J, Spielvogel H, Deschner T. Recognizing normal reproductive biology: A comparative analysis of variability in menstrual cycle biomarkers in German and Bolivian women. Am J Hum Biol 2021; 33:e23663. [PMID: 34374156 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.23663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The idealized "normal" menstrual cycle typically comprises a coordinated ebb and flow of hormones over a 28-day span with ovulation invariably shown at the midpoint. It's a pretty picture-but rare. Systematic studies have debunked the myth that cycles occur regularly about every 28 days. However, assumptions persist regarding the extent and normalcy of variation in other cycle biomarkers. The processes of judging which phenotypic variants are "normal" is context dependent. In everyday life, normal is that which is most commonly seen. In biomedicine normal is often defined as an arbitrarily bounded portion of the phenotype's distribution about its statistical mean. Standards thus defined in one population are problematic when applied to other populations; population specific standards may also be suspect. Rather, recognizing normal female reproductive biology in diverse human populations requires specific knowledge of proximate mechanisms and functional context. Such efforts should be grounded in an empirical assessment of phenotypic variability. We tested hypotheses regarding cycle biomarker variability in women from a wealthy industrialized population (Germany) and a resource-limited rural agropastoral population (Bolivia). Ovulatory cycles in both samples displayed marked but nonetheless comparable variability in all cycle biomarkers and similar means/medians for cycle and phase lengths. Notably, cycle and phase lengths are poor predictors of mid-luteal progesterone concentrations. These patterns suggest that global and local statistical criteria for "normal" cycles would be difficult to define. A more productive approach involves elucidating the causes of natural variation in ovarian cycling and its consequences for reproductive success and women's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia J Vitzthum
- Evolutionary Anthropology Laboratory, Department of Anthropology, & The Kinsey Institute, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Jonathan Thornburg
- Department of Astronomy, & IUCSS, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | | | - Tobias Deschner
- Department of Primatology, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
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40
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Zhu TY, Rothenbühler M, Hamvas G, Hofmann A, Welter J, Kahr M, Kimmich N, Shilaih M, Leeners B. The Accuracy of Wrist Skin Temperature in Detecting Ovulation Compared to Basal Body Temperature: Prospective Comparative Diagnostic Accuracy Study. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e20710. [PMID: 34100763 PMCID: PMC8238491 DOI: 10.2196/20710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background As a daily point measurement, basal body temperature (BBT) might not be able to capture the temperature shift in the menstrual cycle because a single temperature measurement is present on the sliding scale of the circadian rhythm. Wrist skin temperature measured continuously during sleep has the potential to overcome this limitation. Objective This study compares the diagnostic accuracy of these two temperatures for detecting ovulation and to investigate the correlation and agreement between these two temperatures in describing thermal changes in menstrual cycles. Methods This prospective study included 193 cycles (170 ovulatory and 23 anovulatory) collected from 57 healthy women. Participants wore a wearable device (Ava Fertility Tracker bracelet 2.0) that continuously measured the wrist skin temperature during sleep. Daily BBT was measured orally and immediately upon waking up using a computerized fertility tracker with a digital thermometer (Lady-Comp). An at-home luteinizing hormone test was used as the reference standard for ovulation. The diagnostic accuracy of using at least one temperature shift detected by the two temperatures in detecting ovulation was evaluated. For ovulatory cycles, repeated measures correlation was used to examine the correlation between the two temperatures, and mixed effect models were used to determine the agreement between the two temperature curves at different menstrual phases. Results Wrist skin temperature was more sensitive than BBT (sensitivity 0.62 vs 0.23; P<.001) and had a higher true-positive rate (54.9% vs 20.2%) for detecting ovulation; however, it also had a higher false-positive rate (8.8% vs 3.6%), resulting in lower specificity (0.26 vs 0.70; P=.002). The probability that ovulation occurred when at least one temperature shift was detected was 86.2% for wrist skin temperature and 84.8% for BBT. Both temperatures had low negative predictive values (8.8% for wrist skin temperature and 10.9% for BBT). Significant positive correlation between the two temperatures was only found in the follicular phase (rmcorr correlation coefficient=0.294; P=.001). Both temperatures increased during the postovulatory phase with a greater increase in the wrist skin temperature (range of increase: 0.50 °C vs 0.20 °C). During the menstrual phase, the wrist skin temperature exhibited a greater and more rapid decrease (from 36.13 °C to 35.80 °C) than BBT (from 36.31 °C to 36.27 °C). During the preovulatory phase, there were minimal changes in both temperatures and small variations in the estimated daily difference between the two temperatures, indicating an agreement between the two curves. Conclusions For women interested in maximizing the chances of pregnancy, wrist skin temperature continuously measured during sleep is more sensitive than BBT for detecting ovulation. The difference in the diagnostic accuracy of these methods was likely attributed to the greater temperature increase in the postovulatory phase and greater temperature decrease during the menstrual phase for the wrist skin temperatures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy Y Zhu
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Györgyi Hamvas
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Anja Hofmann
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - JoEllen Welter
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Maike Kahr
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nina Kimmich
- Department of Obstetrics, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Brigitte Leeners
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Diagnosis and treatment of luteal phase deficiency: a committee opinion. Fertil Steril 2021; 115:1416-1423. [PMID: 33827766 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Luteal phase deficiency (LPD) is a clinical diagnosis associated with an abnormal luteal phase length of ≤10 days. Potential etiologies of LPD include inadequate progesterone duration, inadequate progesterone levels, or endometrial progesterone resistance. LPD has not only been described in association with medical conditions but also in fertile, normally menstruating women. Although progesterone is important for the process of implantation and early embryonic development, LPD has not been proven to be an independent entity causing infertility or recurrent pregnancy loss. Controversy exists regarding the multiple proposed measures for diagnosing LPD and, assuming it can be diagnosed accurately, whether treatment improves outcomes. This document replaces the document entitled "Current clinical irrelevance of luteal phase deficiency: a committee opinion," last published in 2015 (Fertil Steril 2015;103:e27-e32).
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Shankar VK, Police A, Pandey P, Cuny ZG, Repka MA, Doerksen RJ, Murthy SN. Optimization of sulfobutyl-ether-β-cyclodextrin levels in oral formulations to enhance progesterone bioavailability. Int J Pharm 2021; 596:120212. [PMID: 33493605 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.120212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Progesterone oral dose regimens are indicated for the treatment of luteal phase deficiency and estrogen dominance. The poor aqueous solubility of progesterone leads to erratic oral absorption, resulting in suboptimal or excessive plasma levels. Developing a formulation to enhance the solubility of progesterone in the gastrointestinal tract would be beneficial to decrease drug absorption variability and increase bioavailability. The solubility of progesterone at 400 mM sulfobutyl-ether-β-cyclodextrin (SBE-β-CD) concentration was ~7000-fold greater than its intrinsic solubility, aided by the formation of SBE-β-CD-progesterone complex. The complex was characterized using differential scanning colorimeter, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy techniques. FTIR and NMR studies of the complex confirm the interaction between functional groups of SBE-β-CD and progesterone to form an inclusion complex. Molecular modeling studies demonstrated progesterone binding poses with four probable SBE-β-CD isomers and these results matched with NMR and FTIR data. The progesterone oral formulations were optimized by increasing the levels of SBE-β-CD in the formulation to prevent the displacement of progesterone from the complex by gastrointestinal contents. The oral bioavailability of progesterone in rats was increased 5-fold when administered with the optimized formulation compared to administration with progesterone API capsules. Studies demonstrated that the optimized formulation prevents precipitation of progesterone in the intestinal tract and increases progesterone oral bioavailability in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Kumar Shankar
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, School of Pharmacy, The University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA.
| | - Anitha Police
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, School of Pharmacy, The University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA.
| | - Pankaj Pandey
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, Division of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, The University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA.
| | - Zachary G Cuny
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, Division of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, The University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA.
| | - Michael A Repka
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, School of Pharmacy, The University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA.
| | - Robert J Doerksen
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, Division of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, The University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA.
| | - S Narasimha Murthy
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery, School of Pharmacy, The University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA; Institute for Drug Delivery and Biomedical Research, Bangalore, India.
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Expression of E-Cadherin in Pig-Tailed Monkey ( Macaca nemestrina) Endometrium after Controlled Ovarian Hyperstimulation. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:8824614. [PMID: 33708995 PMCID: PMC7932768 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8824614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
An increase of steroid hormones in controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) procedures is reducing the success rate in assisted reproductive technology (ART), and this includes the pregnancy rate and/or implantation rate. Research has found that the decrease in the success rate occurred due to the decreased expression of the protein that is needed to prepare the endometrium so that the embryo could attach. The aim of the study was to analyse the changes in E-chaderin expression due to COH and its relations with increased level of steroid hormones as one of the proteins in the endometrium. There were 13 samples of stored biological tissue from Macaca nemestrina endometrial tissue; came from one group of natural cycles as the control group (n = 4) and three groups of stimulated cycles. The first stimulated cycle group was injected by a 30 IU dose of rFSH (n = 2). The second stimulated cycle group was injected by a 50 IU dose of rFSH (n = 4). The third stimulated cycle group was injected by a 70 IU dose of rFSH (n = 3). The expression of E-cadherin was measured by the immunohistochemistry (IHC) technique. Estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) levels were assessed using ELISA and have already been done. The IHC staining expression of E-cadherin was found in the cytoplasm of glandular epithelium. Immunostaining measurement used the H_SCORE. We found that the expression of E-cadherin within the group was not significantly different (p value: 0.178). Similarly, both the correlation between the estradiol level with E-cadherin and the correlation between the progesterone level with E-cadherin were not significantly different (p value: 0.872 and p value: 0.836). The conclusion is that the level of E-Cadherin expression in the endometrium that were taken in themiddle secretion phase not affected by the dose regimen that given. In addition, the level of expression is not influenced by the increase of serum E2 and P4 levels.
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Wang NF, Bungum L, Skouby SO. What is the optimal luteal support in assisted reproductive technology? Horm Mol Biol Clin Investig 2021; 43:225-233. [PMID: 33609426 DOI: 10.1515/hmbci-2020-0081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The need for luteal phase support in IVF/ICSI is well established. A large effort has been made in the attempt to identify the optimal type, start, route, dosage and duration of luteal phase support for IVF/ICSI and frozen embryo transfer. These questions are further complicated by the different types of stimulation protocols and ovulation triggers used in ART. The aim of this review is to supply a comprehensive overview of the available types of luteal phase support, and the indications for their use.A review of the literature was carried out in the effort to find the optimal luteal phase support regimen with regards to pregnancy related outcomes and short and long term safety.The results demonstrate that vaginal, intramuscular, subcutaneous and rectal progesterone are equally effective as luteal phase support in IVF/ICSI. GnRH agonists and oral dydrogesterone are new and promising treatment modalities but more research is needed. hCG and estradiol are not recommended for luteal phase support. More research is needed to establish the most optimal luteal phase support in frozen embryo transfer cycles, but progesterone has been shown to improve live birth rate in some studies. Luteal phase support should be commenced between the evening of the day of oocyte retrieval, and day three after oocyte retrieval and it should be continued at least until the day of positive pregnancy test.So, in conclusion still more large and well-designed RCT's are needed to establish the most optimal luteal phase support in each stimulation protocol, and especially in frozen embryo transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie F Wang
- Fertility Clinic, Section 4071, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Leif Bungum
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Unit of Reproductive Medicine, Herlev/Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, HerlevDenmark
| | - Sven O Skouby
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Unit of Reproductive Medicine, Herlev/Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, HerlevDenmark
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Orvieto R, Venetis CA, Fatemi HM, D’Hooghe T, Fischer R, Koloda Y, Horton M, Grynberg M, Longobardi S, Esteves SC, Sunkara SK, Li Y, Alviggi C. Optimising Follicular Development, Pituitary Suppression, Triggering and Luteal Phase Support During Assisted Reproductive Technology: A Delphi Consensus. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:675670. [PMID: 34040586 PMCID: PMC8142593 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.675670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A Delphi consensus was conducted to evaluate global expert opinions on key aspects of assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment. METHODS Ten experts plus the Scientific Coordinator discussed and amended statements plus supporting references proposed by the Scientific Coordinator. The statements were distributed via an online survey to 35 experts, who voted on their level of agreement or disagreement with each statement. Consensus was reached if the proportion of participants agreeing or disagreeing with a statement was >66%. RESULTS Eighteen statements were developed. All statements reached consensus and the most relevant are summarised here. (1) Follicular development and stimulation with gonadotropins (n = 9 statements): Recombinant human follicle stimulating hormone (r-hFSH) alone is sufficient for follicular development in normogonadotropic patients aged <35 years. Oocyte number and live birth rate are strongly correlated; there is a positive linear correlation with cumulative live birth rate. Different r-hFSH preparations have identical polypeptide chains but different glycosylation patterns, affecting the biospecific activity of r-hFSH. r-hFSH plus recombinant human LH (r-hFSH:r-hLH) demonstrates improved pregnancy rates and cost efficacy versus human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) in patients with severe FSH and LH deficiency. (2) Pituitary suppression (n = 2 statements): Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists are associated with lower rates of any grade ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and cycle cancellation versus GnRH agonists. (3) Final oocyte maturation triggering (n=4 statements): Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) represents the gold standard in fresh cycles. The efficacy of hCG triggering for frozen transfers in modified natural cycles is controversial compared with LH peak monitoring. Current evidence supports significantly higher pregnancy rates with hCG + GnRH agonist versus hCG alone, but further evidence is needed. GnRH agonist trigger, in GnRH antagonist protocol, is recommended for final oocyte maturation in women at risk of OHSS. (4) Luteal-phase support (n = 3 statements): Vaginal progesterone therapy represents the gold standard for luteal-phase support. CONCLUSIONS This Delphi consensus provides a real-world clinical perspective on the specific approaches during the key steps of ART treatment from a diverse group of international experts. Additional guidance from clinicians on ART strategies could complement guidelines and policies, and may help to further improve treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raoul Orvieto
- Infertility and IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center (Tel Hashomer), Ramat Gan, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- The Tarnesby-Tarnowski Chair for Family Planning and Fertility Regulation, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- *Correspondence: Raoul Orvieto,
| | - Christos A. Venetis
- Centre for Big Data Research in Health & School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- IVF Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Human M. Fatemi
- Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), Fertility Clinics, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Thomas D’Hooghe
- Global Medical Affairs, Research and Development, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
- Research Group Reproductive Medicine, Department of Development and Regeneration, Organ Systems, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven (University of Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | | | - Yulia Koloda
- Center of Reproduction “Life Line”, Moscow, Russia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russia
| | - Marcos Horton
- Pregna Medicina Reproductiva, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Michael Grynberg
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction et Préservation de la Fertilité, Hôpital Antoine Béclère, Clamart, France
| | - Salvatore Longobardi
- Global Clinical Development, Merck Serono, Italy, an Affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Sandro C. Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Center for Male Reproduction, Campinas, Brazil
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Sesh K. Sunkara
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yuan Li
- Medical Center for Human Reproduction, Beijing Chao-yang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Carlo Alviggi
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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46
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Tesarik J, Conde-López C, Galán-Lázaro M, Mendoza-Tesarik R. Luteal Phase in Assisted Reproductive Technology. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2020; 2:595183. [PMID: 36304702 PMCID: PMC9580649 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2020.595183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Luteal phase (LP) is the period of time beginning shortly after ovulation and ending either with luteolysis, shortly before menstrual bleeding, or with the establishment of pregnancy. During the LP, the corpus luteum (CL) secretes progesterone and some other hormones that are essential to prepare the uterus for implantation and further development of the embryo, the function known as uterine receptivity. LP deficiency (LPD) can occur when the secretory activity of the CL is deficient, but also in cases of normal CL function, where it is caused by a defective endometrial response to normal levels of progesterone. LPD is particularly frequent in treatments using assisted reproductive technology (ART). Controlled ovarian stimulation usually aims to obtain the highest number possible of good-quality oocytes and requires the use of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs, to prevent premature ovulation, as well as an ovulation trigger to achieve timed final oocyte maturation. Altogether, these treatments suppress pituitary secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH), required for the formation and early activity of the CL. In addition to problems of endometrial receptivity for embryos, LPD also leads to dysfunction of the local uterine immune system, with an increased risk of embryo rejection, abnormally high uterine contractility, and restriction of uterine blood flow. There are two alternatives of LPD prevention: a direct administration of exogenous progesterone to restore the physiological progesterone serum concentration independently of the CL function, on the one hand, and treatments aimed to stimulate the CL activity so as to increase endogenous progesterone production, on the other hand. In case of pregnancy, some kind of LP support is often needed until the luteal-placental shift occurs. If LPD is caused by defective response of the endometrium and uterine immune cells to normal concentrations of progesterone, a still poorly defined condition, symptomatic treatments are the only available solution currently available.
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47
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Lu Q, Lin Y, Chen T, Lv H, Diao F, Liu C, Peng M, Ling X, Li H, Wang Y, Wei Y, Du J, Jin G, Xia Y, Ma H, Liu X, Shen H, Hu Z. Alternations of gut microbiota composition in neonates conceived by assisted reproductive technology and its relation to infant growth. Gut Microbes 2020; 12:1794466. [PMID: 32752913 PMCID: PMC7524295 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2020.1794466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiome in newborns may be strongly influenced by their intrinsic host microenvironmental factors (e.g., the gestational age) and has been linked to their short-term growth and potentially future health. It is yet unclear whether early microbiota composition is significantly different in newborns conceived by assisted reproductive technology (ART) when compared with those who were conceived spontaneously. Additionally, little is known about the effect of gut microbiota composition on weight gain in early infancy. We aimed to characterize the features and the determinants of the gut microbiome in ART newborns and to assess the impact of early microbiota composition on their weight gain in early infancy in mother-infant dyads enrolled in the China National Birth Cohort (CNBC). Among 118 neonates born by ART and 91 neonates born following spontaneous conception, we observed significantly reduced gut microbiota α-diversity and declined Bacteroidetes relative abundance in ART neonates. The microbiota composition of ART neonates was largely driven by specific ART treatments, hinting the importance of fetus intrinsic host microenvironment on the early microbial colonization. Following up these neonates for six months after their births, we observed the effects of gut microbiome composition on infant rapid weight gaining. Collectively, we identified features and determinants of the gut microbiota composition in ART neonates, and provided evidence for the importance of microbiota composition in neonatal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qun Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuan Lin
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ting Chen
- Scientific Education Section, The Affiliated Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hong Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Feiyang Diao
- Department of Reproduction, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Cong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Meijuan Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiufeng Ling
- Department of Reproduction, The Affiliated Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hong Li
- Reproductive Genetic Center, Suzhou Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Yun Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Suzhou Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, China
| | - Yongyue Wei
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China,China International Cooperation Center for Environment and Human Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiangbo Du
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guangfu Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yankai Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongxia Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xingyin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongbing Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China,Hongbing Shen Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing211166, China
| | - Zhibin Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China,CONTACT Zhibin Hu Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing211166, China
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48
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Sundström-Poromaa I, Comasco E, Sumner R, Luders E. Progesterone - Friend or foe? Front Neuroendocrinol 2020; 59:100856. [PMID: 32730861 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2020.100856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Estradiol is the "prototypic" sex hormone of women. Yet, women have another sex hormone, which is often disregarded: Progesterone. The goal of this article is to provide a comprehensive review on progesterone, and its metabolite allopregnanolone, emphasizing three key areas: biological properties, main functions, and effects on mood in women. Recent years of intensive research on progesterone and allopregnanolone have paved the way for new treatment of postpartum depression. However, treatment for premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder as well as contraception that women can use without risking mental health problems are still needed. As far as progesterone is concerned, we might be dealing with a two-edged sword: while its metabolite allopregnanolone has been proven useful for treatment of PPD, it may trigger negative symptoms in women with PMS and PMDD. Overall, our current knowledge on the beneficial and harmful effects of progesterone is limited and further research is imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Erika Comasco
- Department of Neuroscience, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Eileen Luders
- School of Psychology, University of Auckland, New Zealand; Laboratory of Neuro Imaging, School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA
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Usman MA, Ibrahim MA, Salman AA, Sallau AB. Depletion of cholesterol could be associated with modulation of progesterone but not other sex hormone levels during Plasmodium falciparum infection in humans: a cross-sectional study from Zaria, Nigeria. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:4143-4150. [PMID: 32951142 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06826-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
In order for Plasmodium falciparum to grow and survive in its host, membrane biogenesis, fueled by host cholesterol, is essential for these processes. Consistent with this essential role, more insights into the cholesterol pathway would enhance the current understanding of the pathophysiology of malaria infection. To explore its broader potential, we conducted a cross-sectional study and assayed for the serum levels of cholesterol, vitamin D, progesterone, testosterone, estradiol and bile acid in both P. falciparum-infected patients and apparently healthy sex-matched participants. Our results revealed that the levels of cholesterol, vitamin D, progesterone, testosterone and estradiol in P. falciparum-infected patients were significantly (p < 0.05) lower compared to those in control groups whereas the level of bile acid in P. falciparum-infected patients was significantly (p < 0.05) higher compared to that in control groups. Additionally, cholesterol and the metabolic products with the exception of bile acid had a significant (p < 0.05) association with the parasite density in P. falciparum-infected patients with moderate and high P. falciparum infections. Furthermore, all the metabolic products of cholesterol had an insignificant (p > 0.05) association with the cholesterol in P. falciparum-infected patients with the exception of progesterone which showed a significant (p < 0.05) association with cholesterol in the malaria-infected female patients. Data from the present study demonstrated that progesterone depletion in P. falciparum-infected female patients could be a consequence of P. falciparum-induced decrease in cholesterol.
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50
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Tera Dolebo A, Melesse A, Porcu C, Getachew T, Haile A, Rouatbi M, Abate Z, Zeleke M, Rischkowsky B, Mwacharo JM, Rekik M. Increased number of large non-atretic follicles and co-dominance effects account for high litter sizes in Bonga sheep. Anim Sci J 2020; 91:e13384. [PMID: 32462805 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13384] [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: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
To understand the ovarian basis for prolificacy of Bonga sheep, a total of 31 ewes were selected based on litter size (LS) records and divided into two groups: High Prolificacy (HP) (n = 20) with LS ≥ 2 and Low Prolificacy (LP) (n = 11) with LS = 1. At a synchronized estrus, follicular dynamics were determined using transrectal ultrasonography. Plasma estradiol concentrations were also monitored. In total 27 ewes were observed in estrus being 9/11 LP (82%) and 18/20 HP (90%). On the day of estrus (day 0), the mean number of large follicles was higher (p < .05) in HP (1.78 ± 0.19) than in LP (1.0 ± 0.28) ewes. Prior to estrus, more (p < .05) medium follicles were visible for HP compared to LP ewes. Plasma estradiol concentrations were higher in HP compared to LP ewes (18.91 ± 0.41 vs. 14.51 ± 0.65 pg/ml; p < .05) and similarly was ovulation number (2.3 ± 0.15 vs. 1.28 ± 0. 14; p < .05). Higher ovulation rates and litter size in Bonga sheep are evidenced by the previous presence of more large follicles and the existence of co-dominance effects as most likely medium follicles are selected to ovulate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asrat Tera Dolebo
- School of Animal and Range Sciences, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Aberra Melesse
- School of Animal and Range Sciences, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Cristian Porcu
- University of Sassari, Piazza Università, Sassari, Italy
| | - Tesfaye Getachew
- International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Aynalem Haile
- International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Mariem Rouatbi
- Institut National Agronomique de Tunisie, Tunis, Tunisia
| | | | | | - Barbara Rischkowsky
- International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Joram M Mwacharo
- International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Mourad Rekik
- International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), Amman, Jordan
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