1
|
Zhang J, Jia H, Diao F, Ma X, Liu J, Cui Y. Efficacy of dehydroepiandrosterone priming in women with poor ovarian response undergoing IVF/ICSI: a meta-analysis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1156280. [PMID: 37361534 PMCID: PMC10288189 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1156280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) may improve the outcomes of patients with poor ovarian response (POR) or diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) undergoing IVF/ICSI. However, the evidence remains inconsistent. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of DHEA supplementation in patients with POR/DOR undergoing IVF/ICSI. Methods PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) were searched up to October 2022. Results A total of 32 studies were retrieved, including 14 RCTs, 11 self-controlled studies and 7 case-controlled studies. In the subgroup analysis of only RCTs, DHEA treatment significantly increased the number of antral follicle count (AFC) (weighted mean difference : WMD 1.18, 95% confidence interval(CI): 0.17 to 2.19, P=0.022), while reduced the level of bFSH (WMD -1.99, 95% CI: -2.52 to -1.46, P<0.001), the need of gonadotropin (Gn) doses (WMD -382.29, 95% CI: -644.82 to -119.76, P=0.004), the days of stimulation (WMD -0.90, 95% CI: -1.34 to -0.47, P <0.001) and miscarriage rate (relative risk : RR 0.46, 95% CI: 0.29 to 0.73, P=0.001). The higher clinical pregnancy and live birth rates were found in the analysis of non-RCTs. However, there were no significant differences in the number of retrieved oocytes, the number of transferred embryos, and the clinical pregnancy and live birth rates in the subgroup analysis of only RCTs. Moreover, meta-regression analyses showed that women with lower basal FSH had more increase in serum FSH levels (b=-0.94, 95% CI: -1.62 to -0.25, P=0.014), and women with higher baseline AMH levels had more increase in serum AMH levels (b=-0.60, 95% CI: -1.15 to -0.06, P=0.035) after DHEA supplementation. In addition, the number of retrieved oocytes was higher in the studies on relatively younger women (b=-0.21, 95% CI: -0.39 to -0.03, P=0.023) and small sample sizes (b=-0.003, 95% CI: -0.006 to -0.0003, P=0.032). Conclusions DHEA treatment didn't significantly improve the live birth rate of women with DOR or POR undergoing IVF/ICSI in the subgroup analysis of only RCTs. The higher clinical pregnancy and live birth rates in those non-RCTs should be interpreted with caution because of potential bias. Further studies using more explicit criteria to subjects are needed. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD 42022384393.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongyan Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Clinical Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Lianyungang Maternal and Child Health Hospital Kangda College of Nanjing Medical University, Lianyungang, China
| | - Feiyang Diao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiang Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiayin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yugui Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yuan WS, Abu MA, Ahmad MF, Elias MH, Abdul Karim AK. Effects of Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) Supplementation on Ovarian Cumulus Cells following In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)/Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) Treatment-A Systematic Review. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1237. [PMID: 37374020 DOI: 10.3390/life13061237] [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: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite many studies exploring the effects of DHEA supplementation, its application in IVF procedure continues to be a subject of debate owing to the inconsistent findings and the lack of rigorously designed, large-scale, randomized trials. Our review aims to explore the effectiveness of DHEA supplementation in ovarian cumulus cells following IVF/ICSI treatment. We conducted a literature search of Pub-Med, Ovid MEDLINE, and SCOPUS (inception to June 2022) for all relevant articles, including the keywords of "dehydroepiandrosterone/DHEA", "oocyte", and "cumulus cells". From the preliminary search, 69 publications were identified, and following a thorough screening process, seven studies were ultimately incorporated into the final review. Four hundred twenty-four women were enrolled in these studies, with DHEA supplementation being administered exclusively to women exhibiting poor ovarian response/diminished ovarian reserve or belonging to an older age demographic. The intervention in the studies was DHEA 75-90 mg daily for at least 8-12 weeks. The only randomized controlled trial showed no difference in clinical or cumulus cell-related outcomes between the control and treatment groups. However, the remaining six studies (two cohorts, four case-controls) showed significant beneficial effects of DHEA in cumulus cell-related outcomes compared to the group (older age or POR/DOR) without DHEA supplementation. All studies revealed no significant difference in stimulation and pregnancy outcomes. Our review concludes that DHEA supplementation did show beneficial effect on ovarian cumulus cells in improving oocyte quality for women of advanced age or with poor ovarian responders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Woon Shu Yuan
- Advanced Reproductive Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, UKM Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Azrai Abu
- Advanced Reproductive Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, UKM Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Faizal Ahmad
- Advanced Reproductive Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, UKM Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| | - Marjanu Hikmah Elias
- Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia, Bandar Baru Nilai 71800, Malaysia
| | - Abdul Kadir Abdul Karim
- Advanced Reproductive Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, UKM Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Mu Z, Shen S, Lei L. Resistant ovary syndrome: Pathogenesis and management strategies. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:1030004. [PMCID: PMC9626816 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1030004] [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: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Resistant ovary syndrome (ROS) is a rare and difficult gynecological endocrine disorder that poses a serious risk to women’s reproductive health. The clinical features are normal sex characteristics, regular female karyotype, and usual ovarian reserve, but elevated endogenous gonadotropin levels and low estrogen levels with primary or secondary amenorrhea. Although there have been many case reports of the disease over the past 50 years, the pathogenesis of the disease is still poorly understood, and there are still no effective clinical management strategies. In this review, we have collected all the current reports on ROS and summarized the pathogenesis and treatment strategies for this disease, intending to provide some clinical references for the management and treatment of this group of patients and provide the foothold for future studies.
Collapse
|
4
|
Yin WW, Huang CC, Chen YR, Yu DQ, Jin M, Feng C. The effect of medication on serum anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) levels in women of reproductive age: a meta-analysis. BMC Endocr Disord 2022; 22:158. [PMID: 35698127 PMCID: PMC9195431 DOI: 10.1186/s12902-022-01065-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study aims to address whether serum anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) levels fluctuate in the short term after medication application, including oral contraceptives (OCs), metformin (MET), Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-a), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), vitamin D (VD), clomiphene citrate (CC), and letrozole (LET). METHODS Published literature from PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane central was retrieved up until 19 September 2021. A total of 51 self-control studies with an average Newcastle-Ottawa quality assessment scale (NOS) score of 6.90 were analyzed. The extracted data were entered into Stata software, and the weighted mean difference/standardized mean difference (WMD/SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were used for data analysis. RESULTS After OCs treatment the AMH level showed a significant decline in women with normal ovarian function, which was significant within 3 months (WMD = -1.43, 95% CI: -2.05 to -0.80, P < 0.00001). After MET treatment, the serum AMH decreased in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients (WMD = -1.79, 95% CI: -2.32 to -1.26, P < 0.00001), in both obese and non-obese patients. GnRH-a treatment in endometriosis patients led to dynamic changes in the serum AMH levels, that is, ascent at 1 month (P = 0.05), and descent at 3 months (P = 0.02). After DHEA treatment the serum AMH increased in diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) / poor ovarian response (POR) patients (WMD = 0.18, 95% CI: 0.09 to 0.27, P < 0.0001). After VD treatment the serum AMH increased, and it was obvious in non-PCOS patients (WMD = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.34 to 1.21, P = 0.0004). After CC treatment the serum AMH decreased significantly in PCOS patients, specifically in non-obese patients (WMD = -1.24, 95% CI: -1.87 to -0.61, P = 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Serum AMH levels may be affected in the short term after drug application. Specifically, OC, MET and CC lead to decreased AMH level, DHEA and VD lead to increased AMH level, and GnRH-a leads to dynamic variation, which is correlated with PCOS, obesity, age, and duration of medication. The impacts of these medications should be taken into consideration when AMH is used as a marker of ovarian reserve.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Wei Yin
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chang-Chang Huang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yi-Ru Chen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dan-Qing Yu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China
| | - Min Jin
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chun Feng
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Neves AR, Montoya-Botero P, Polyzos NP. Androgens and diminished ovarian reserve: the long road from basic science to clinical implementation. A comprehensive and systematic review with meta-analysis. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 227:401-413.e18. [PMID: 35364061 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2022.03.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to present a narrative review regarding androgen production, androgens' role in folliculogenesis, and the available therapeutic approaches for androgen supplementation, and to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis regarding the impact of androgens (dehydroepiandrosterone/testosterone) compared with placebo or no treatment on ovarian response and pregnancy outcomes in patients with diminished ovarian reserve and/or poor ovarian responders. DATA SOURCES An electronic search of MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Scopus, ClinicalTrials.gov, the ISRCTN registry, and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry, was conducted for studies published until September 2021. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Randomized controlled trials that compared ovarian response and/or pregnancy outcomes between the different in vitro fertilization protocols using androgens (ie, dehydroepiandrosterone and testosterone) and conventional in vitro fertilization stimulation in patients with diminished ovarian reserve and/or poor ovarian responders were included. METHODS The quality of each study was evaluated with the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2). The meta-analysis used random-effects models. All results were interpreted on the basis of intention-to-treat analysis (defined as the inclusion of all randomized patients in the denominator). Risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals were used and combined for meta-analysis. RESULTS No significant differences were found regarding the number of oocytes retrieved (mean difference, 0.76; 95% confidence interval, -0.35 to 1.88), mature oocytes retrieved (mean difference, 0.25; 95% confidence interval, -0.27 to 0.76), clinical pregnancy rate (risk ratio, 1.17; 95% confidence interval, 0.87-1.57), live-birth rate (risk ratio, 0.97; 95% confidence interval, 0.47-2.01), or miscarriage rate (risk ratio, 0.80; 95% confidence interval, 0.29-2.22) when dehydroepiandrosterone priming was compared with placebo or no treatment. Testosterone pretreatment yielded a higher number of oocytes retrieved (mean difference, 0.94; 95% confidence interval, 0.46-1.42), a higher clinical pregnancy rate (risk ratio, 2.07; 95% confidence interval, 1.33-3.20), and higher live-birth rate (risk ratio, 2.09; 95% confidence interval, 1.11-3.95). CONCLUSION Although dehydroepiandrosterone did not present a clear effect on outcomes of assisted reproductive techniques, we found a potentially beneficial effect of testosterone priming on ovarian response and pregnancy outcomes. However, results should be interpreted with caution, taking into account the low to moderate quality of the available evidence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Raquel Neves
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain; Autonomous University of Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Pedro Montoya-Botero
- Conceptum - Unidad de Fertilidad del Country, Bogotá, Colombia; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de la Salud - FUCS, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Nikolaos P Polyzos
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University (UZ Gent), Ghent, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zheng Y, Pan Y, Li P, Wang Z, Wang Z, Shi Y. Ovarian Sensitivity Decreased Significantly in Patients With Insulin Resistance Undergoing in vitro Fertilization and Embryo Transfer. Front Physiol 2022; 12:809419. [PMID: 35360506 PMCID: PMC8963761 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.809419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian sensitivity could affect the outcome of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET). The objective of this study was to explore the relationship between the ovarian sensitivity index (OSI) and traditional ovarian response makers and observe the relationship between OSI and insulin resistance (IR). The patients enrolled in this study included 131 patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) with IR (PCOS-IR), 52 patients with PCOS without IR (PCOS-N), 164 patients with control with IR (control-IR), 133 patients with control without IR (control-N), 295 patients with IR, 184 patients with non-IR, 183 patients with PCOS, and 297 patients with control (patients with non-PCOS). All patients received standard long protocol or the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist protocol to induce follicular development. The two protocols downregulated the pituitary function or blocked the pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion with a GnRH antagonist. Both protocols can block premature LH surges because premature luteinization is not conducive to follicular development. All patients underwent IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Embryo transfer was carried out according to the specific situation of each patient. The OSI was significantly reduced in patients with IR. The OSI had a significant positive relationship with anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), antral follicle count (AFC), basal LH/follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), dominant follicle number on trigger day, retrieved oocytes, embryo number, and high-quality embryo number. OSI had a significant negative relationship with age, body mass index (BMI), basal FSH, initial dose of Gn, and total dose of Gn. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of OSI demonstrated a better accuracy in distinguishing patients with positive pregnancy and clinical pregnancy, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.662 (95% CI, 0.598–0.727) and 0.636 (95% CI, 0.577–0.695), respectively. Patients could get a higher rate of dominant follicle count (p < 0.0001) through the treatment of standard long protocol when compared with GnRH antagonist protocol. The OSI has a significant correlation with traditional ovarian response markers and could be a good predictor of positive pregnancy and clinical pregnancy for patients with IR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanjun Zheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Ye Pan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Ping Li
- Women and Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Zhongyuan Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China
| | - Ze Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yuhua Shi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Yuhua Shi,
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
The Use of Androgen Priming in Women with Reduced Ovarian Reserve Undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technology. Semin Reprod Med 2021; 39:207-219. [PMID: 34500477 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1735646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Androgen priming with either dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) or testosterone has been suggested as an adjunct to improve in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes in women with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR). Numerous studies have investigated the effects of both DHEA and testosterone on IVF outcome. The results were inconsistent, and the quality of most studies is substandard. Meta-analyses have consistently reported that DHEA does appear to significantly improve IVF outcome in women with predicted or proven poor ovarian response (POR), but these have included some normal responders and/or nonrandomized studies. Our meta-analyses including randomized controlled trials (RCTs) incorporating only women with DOR or POR suggest that DHEA confers no benefit. While meta-analyses of RCTs on the use of testosterone in women with DOR or POR showed an improved IVF outcome, most studies included are of low quality with high risk of bias. When analysis of data from studies of only low-risk bias was performed, such a benefit with testosterone was not observed. Although recruitment may well be a challenge, a large, well-designed RCT is, however, still warranted to investigate whether or not androgen priming with either DHEA or testosterone should be recommended as an adjuvant treatment for women with DOR or POR undergoing IVF.
Collapse
|
8
|
The Relationships Between Serum DHEA-S and AMH Levels in Infertile Women: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10061211. [PMID: 33803980 PMCID: PMC7998713 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10061211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The relationship between serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEA-S) and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels has not been fully established. Therefore, we performed a large-scale cross-sectional study to investigate the association between serum DHEA-S and AMH levels. The study included a total of 2155 infertile women aged 20 to 46 years who were divided into four quartile groups (Q1 to Q4) based on serum DHEA-S levels. We found that there was a weak positive association between serum DHEA-S and AMH levels in infertile women (r = 0.190, p < 0.001). After adjusting for potential confounders, serum DHEA-S levels positively correlated with serum AMH levels in infertile women (β = 0.103, p < 0.001). Infertile women in the highest DHEA-S quartile category (Q4) showed significantly higher serum AMH levels (p < 0.001) compared with women in the lowest DHEA-S quartile category (Q1). The serum AMH levels significantly increased across increasing DHEA-S quartile categories in infertile women (p = 0.014) using generalized linear models after adjustment for potential confounders. Our data show that serum DHEA-S levels are positively associated with serum AMH levels.
Collapse
|
9
|
Neves AR, Montoya-Botero P, Polyzos NP. The Role of Androgen Supplementation in Women With Diminished Ovarian Reserve: Time to Randomize, Not Meta-Analyze. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:653857. [PMID: 34079524 PMCID: PMC8165260 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.653857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The management of patients with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) remains one of the most challenging tasks in IVF clinical practice. Despite the promising results obtained from animal studies regarding the importance of androgens on folliculogenesis, the evidence obtained from clinical studies remains inconclusive. This is mainly due to the lack of an evidence-based methodology applied in the available trials and to the heterogeneity in the inclusion criteria and IVF treatment protocols. In this review, we analyze the available evidence obtained from animal studies and highlight the pitfalls from the clinical studies that prevent us from closing the chapter of this line of research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Raquel Neves
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Pedro Montoya-Botero
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Conceptum – Unidad de Fertilidad del Country, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Nikolaos P. Polyzos
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Dexeus University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University (UZ Gent), Gent, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Nikolaos P. Polyzos,
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Luna SL, Brown DI, Kohama SG, Urbanski HF. Lack of effect of short-term DHEA supplementation on the perimenopausal ovary†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:1209-1216. [PMID: 32901819 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) hormonal supplementation can improve oocyte quality in women with diminished ovarian function. However, it is unclear whether DHEA supplementation can also enhance ovarian function during the perimenopause (i.e., when the number of follicles in the ovary has undergone a marked reduction). To address this question, we examined the impact of 2.5-months of daily 5-mg oral DHEA supplementation on the number of ovarian follicles and the concentration of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in perimenopausal rhesus macaques. Like women, these long-lived nonhuman primates have ~ 28-day menstrual cycles and eventually undergo menopause. They also show similar age-related neuroendocrine changes, including a marked decrease in circulating concentrations of DHEA and DHEA sulfate (DHEAS). Our experimental design involved the following three groups of animals (N = 6 per group): Young adult (mean age = 11.6 years), Old control (mean age = 23.1 years), and Old DHEA-treated (mean age = 23.5 years). Histological examination of the ovaries revealed a significant age-related decrease in the mean number of primordial follicles despite DHEA supplementation. Moreover, AMH concentrations within the ovaries and circulation, assessed by Western analysis and ELISA, respectively, showed significant age-related decreases that were not attenuated by DHEA supplementation. Taken together, these results fail to show a clear effect of short-term physiological DHEA supplementation on the perimenopausal ovary. However, they do not exclude the possibility that alternative DHEA supplementation paradigms (e.g., involving an earlier start date, longer duration and using pharmacological doses) may extend reproductive potential during aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Selva L Luna
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, Oregon 97006, USA.,Escuela de Química y Farmacia, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Donald I Brown
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, Oregon 97006, USA.,Instituto de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Steven G Kohama
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, Oregon 97006, USA
| | - Henryk F Urbanski
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, Oregon 97006, USA.,Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Chen SN, Tsui KH, Wang PH, Chern CU, Wen ZH, Lin LT. Dehydroepiandrosterone Supplementation Improves the Outcomes of in vitro Fertilization Cycles in Older Patients With Diminished Ovarian Reserve. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:800. [PMID: 31803144 PMCID: PMC6873389 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) supplementation has been reported to have beneficial effects on the in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes of patients with poor ovarian response or diminished ovarian reserve. The Patient-Oriented Strategies Encompassing IndividualizeD Oocyte Number (POSEIDON) stratification is a set of newly established criteria for low prognosis patients. The aim of this study was to examine the potential effects of DHEA supplementation on the IVF outcomes of patients who fulfill the POSEIDON group 4 criteria. Methods: This retrospective cohort study investigated 297 cycles that fulfilled the POSEIDON group 4 criteria and underwent IVF treatment using the gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist protocol. The study group contained 159 cycles that received DHEA (30 mg three times per day) daily for 12 weeks before their IVF cycles. The control group included 138 cycles that underwent IVF cycles but did not receive DHEA. The baseline characteristics and cycle parameters as well as the IVF outcomes of both groups were compared. Results: In terms of baseline characteristics, more previous IVF attempts and lower AMH levels were found in the study group than in the control group. Regarding IVF outcomes, patients in the study group had significantly higher follicular oocyte index and higher numbers of retrieved oocytes, metaphase II oocytes, fertilized oocytes, day 3 embryos and top-quality day 3 embryos than those in the control group. Besides, a higher cumulative pregnancy rate and lower cancellation rate were observed in the study group than in the control group although clinical pregnancy rate, live birth rate, and cumulative live birth rate did not differ between the two groups. Whether patients are aged ≤ 40 years or aged > 40, higher numbers of oocytes and embryos were observed in the study group than in the control group. In patients aged > 40, cumulative pregnancy rate was significantly higher in the study group than in the control group. Conclusions: Our data suggest that DHEA supplementation might increase both oocyte and embryo yields, as well as cumulative pregnancy rates, in patients fulfilling the POSEIDON group 4 criteria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- San-Nung Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Hao Tsui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei City, Taiwan
- Department of Pharmacy and Master Program, College of Pharmacy and Health Care, Yanpu Township, Taiwan
| | - Peng-Hui Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei City, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei City, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung City, Taiwan
| | - Chyi-Uei Chern
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Zhi-Hong Wen
- Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Li-Te Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei City, Taiwan
- Department of Biological Science, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
- *Correspondence: Li-Te Lin
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chern CU, Tsui KH, Vitale SG, Chen SN, Wang PH, Cianci A, Tsai HW, Wen ZH, Lin LT. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) supplementation improves in vitro fertilization outcomes of poor ovarian responders, especially in women with low serum concentration of DHEA-S: a retrospective cohort study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2018; 16:90. [PMID: 30223902 PMCID: PMC6142344 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-018-0409-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is now widely used as an adjuvant for in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles in poor ovarian responders (PORs). Several studies showed that DHEA supplementation could improve IVF outcomes of PORs. However, most of the PORs do not respond to DHEA clinically. Therefore, the aim of this study is to confirm the beneficial effects of DHEA on IVF outcomes of PORs and to investigate which subgroups of PORs can best benefit from DHEA supplementation. METHODS This retrospective cohort study was performed between January 2015 and December 2017. A total of 151 PORs who fulfilled the Bologna criteria and underwent IVF cycles with the gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist protocol were identified. The study group (n = 67) received 90 mg of DHEA daily for an average of 3 months before the IVF cycles. The control group (n = 84) underwent the IVF cycles without DHEA pretreatment. The basic and cycle characteristics and IVF outcomes between the two groups were compared using independent t-tests, Chi-Square tests and binary logistic regression. RESULTS The study and control groups did not show significant differences in terms of basic characteristics. The study group demonstrated a significantly greater number of retrieved oocytes, metaphase II oocytes, fertilized oocytes, day 3 embryos and top-quality embryos at day 3 and a higher clinical pregnancy rate, ongoing pregnancy rate and live birth rate than those measures in the control group. The multivariate analysis revealed that DHEA supplementation was positively associated with clinical pregnancy rate (OR = 4.93, 95% CI 1.68-14.43, p = 0.004). Additionally, in the study group, the multivariate analysis showed that serum dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHEA-S) levels < 180 μg/dl were significantly associated with a rate of retrieved oocytes > 3 (OR = 5.92, 95% CI 1.48-23.26, p = 0.012). CONCLUSIONS DHEA supplementation improves IVF outcomes of PORs. In PORs with DHEA pretreatment, women with lower DHEA-S level may have greater possibility of attaining more than 3 oocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chyi-Uei Chern
- 0000 0004 0572 9992grid.415011.0Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, Kaohsiung City, 81362 Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Hao Tsui
- 0000 0004 0572 9992grid.415011.0Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, Kaohsiung City, 81362 Taiwan
- 0000 0001 0425 5914grid.260770.4Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, No. 155, Sec. 2, Li-Nong Street, Pei-Tou, Taipei, 112 Taiwan
- 0000 0004 0639 0943grid.412902.cDepartment of Pharmacy and Master Program, College of Pharmacy and Health Care, Tajen University, No.20, Weixin Rd, Yanpu, Township, Pingtung County 90741 Taiwan
| | - Salvatore Giovanni Vitale
- 0000 0004 1757 1969grid.8158.4Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - San-Nung Chen
- 0000 0004 0572 9992grid.415011.0Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, Kaohsiung City, 81362 Taiwan
| | - Peng-Hui Wang
- 0000 0001 0425 5914grid.260770.4Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, No. 155, Sec. 2, Li-Nong Street, Pei-Tou, Taipei, 112 Taiwan
- 0000 0004 0604 5314grid.278247.cDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, No. 201, Section 2, Shih-Pai Road, Taipei, 112 Taiwan
- 0000 0004 0572 9415grid.411508.9Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yude Road, North District, Taichung City, 40447 Taiwan
| | - Antonio Cianci
- 0000 0004 1757 1969grid.8158.4Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Hsiao-Wen Tsai
- 0000 0004 0572 9992grid.415011.0Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, Kaohsiung City, 81362 Taiwan
- 0000 0001 0425 5914grid.260770.4Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, No. 155, Sec. 2, Li-Nong Street, Pei-Tou, Taipei, 112 Taiwan
| | - Zhi-Hong Wen
- 0000 0004 0531 9758grid.412036.2Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-sen University, 70 Lienhai Rd, Kaohsiung City, 80424 Taiwan
| | - Li-Te Lin
- 0000 0004 0572 9992grid.415011.0Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, Kaohsiung City, 81362 Taiwan
- 0000 0001 0425 5914grid.260770.4Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, No. 155, Sec. 2, Li-Nong Street, Pei-Tou, Taipei, 112 Taiwan
- 0000 0004 0531 9758grid.412036.2Department of Biological Science, National Sun Yat-Sen University, 70 Lienhai Rd, Kaohsiung City, 80424 Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Jaschke N, Lunger F, Wildt L, Seeber B. Beta endorphin in serum and follicular fluid of PCOS- and non-PCOS women. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2018; 298:217-222. [PMID: 29808249 PMCID: PMC5995977 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-018-4793-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the concentrations of beta endorphin in serum and follicular fluid (FF) of PCOS- and non-PCOS women. Secondarily, to investigate associations between beta endorphin and other parameters. METHODS Fifty-nine women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) were included in the study. Sixteen were stratified to the PCOS group using the Rotterdam criteria. The remaining 43 women served as controls. Follicular fluid was collected during oocyte retrieval and peripheral blood sampling was performed on the same day. Beta endorphin concentrations in serum and follicular fluid, serum levels of insulin, glucose, LH, estradiol and progesterone were measured. Additionally, testosterone was measured before starting the stimulation protocol. RESULTS There was no difference in beta endorphin levels between PCOS- and non-PCOS women. The concentration of the peptide was higher in serum than in FF, likely due to collection of FF after ovulation induction and corresponding to the early luteal phase. We found a significant correlation between the number of mature Metaphase II (MII) oocytes retrieved and beta endorphin concentration in FF. In women with biochemical hyperandrogenemia, beta endorphin levels in FF correlated with testosterone levels. CONCLUSION Beta Endorphin concentrations in serum and FF do not differ between PCOS- and non PCOS-women undergoing IVF. However, together with sex hormones, beta endorphin might play a key role in oocyte maturation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikolai Jaschke
- Department for Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Fabian Lunger
- Department for Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Ludwig Wildt
- Department for Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Beata Seeber
- Department for Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lin LT, Wang PH, Chen SN, Li CJ, Wen ZH, Cheng JT, Tsui KH. Protection of cumulus cells following dehydroepiandrosterone supplementation. Gynecol Endocrinol 2017; 33:100-104. [PMID: 27684542 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2016.1214262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Growing studies have demonstrated that dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) may improve fertility outcomes in poor ovarian responders (PORs). The aim of this study was to compare clinical outcomes and cumulus cell (CC) expression before and after DHEA treatment in PORs undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles. METHODS Six patients with poor ovarian response were enrolled in the study according to Bologna criteria. DHEA was supplied at least 2 months before patients entered into the next IVF cycle. Expression of apoptosis-related genes in CCs was determined by quantitative real-time PCR. Mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity of CCs was assessed by cell counting kit-8 assay. RESULTS Metaphase II oocytes, maturation rate, embryos at Day 3, and fertilization rate significantly increased following DHEA treatment. Expression of cytochrome c, caspase 9, and caspase 3 genes in CCs were significantly reduced after DHEA therapy. Additionally, increased mitochondrial activity of CCs was observed following DHEA supplementation. CONCLUSIONS DHEA supplementation may protect CCs via improved mitochondrial activity and decreased apoptosis, leading to better clinical outcomes in PORs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li-Te Lin
- a Department of Biological Science , National Sun Yat-sen University , Kaohsiung , Taiwan
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital , Kaohsiung , Taiwan
- c Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine , Taipei , Taiwan
| | - Peng-Hui Wang
- c Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine , Taipei , Taiwan
- d Division of Gynecology , Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital , Taipei , Taiwan
- e Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , National Yang-Ming University Hospital , Ilan , Taiwan
- f Immunology Center, Taipei Veterans General Hospital , Taipei , Taiwan
- g Department of Medical Research , China Medical University Hospital , Taichung , Taiwan
| | - San-Nung Chen
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital , Kaohsiung , Taiwan
| | - Chia-Jung Li
- h Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University , Taiwan
| | - Zhi-Hong Wen
- i Department of Marine Biotechnology and Resources , National Sun Yat-sen University , Kaohsiung , Taiwan , and
| | - Jiin-Tsuey Cheng
- a Department of Biological Science , National Sun Yat-sen University , Kaohsiung , Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Hao Tsui
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital , Kaohsiung , Taiwan
- c Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine , Taipei , Taiwan
- j Department of Pharmacy and Graduate Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology , Tajen University , Pingtung County , Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Gat I, Blanco Mejia S, Balakier H, Librach CL, Claessens A, Ryan EAJ. The use of coenzyme Q10 and DHEA during IUI and IVF cycles in patients with decreased ovarian reserve. Gynecol Endocrinol 2016; 32:534-7. [PMID: 26829445 DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2015.1137095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study is to compare the combination of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) (D + C) with DHEA alone (D) in intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles among patients with decreased ovarian reserve. METHODS We retrospectively extracted data from patients charts treated by DHEA with/without CoQ10 during IUI or IVF between February 2006 and June 2014. Prestimulation parameters included age, BMI, day 3 FSH and antral follicular count (AFC). Ovarian response parameters included total gonadotropins dosage, peak serum estradiol, number of follicles > 16 mm and fertilization rate. Clinical outcomes included clinical and ongoing pregnancy rates. RESULTS Three hundred and thirty IUI cycles involved D + C compared with 467 cycles of D; 78 IVF cycles involved D + C and 175 D. In both IUI and IVF, AFC was higher with D + C compared with D (7.4 ± 5.7 versus 5.9 ± 4.7, 8.2 ± 6.3 versus 5.2 ± 5, respectively, p < 0.05). D + C resulted in a more follicles > 16 mm during IUI cycles (3.3 ± 2.3 versus 2.9 ± 2.2, respectively, p = 0.01), while lower mean total gonadotropin dosage was administered after D + C supplementation compared with D (3414 ± 1141 IUs versus 3877 ± 1143 IUs respectively, p = 0.032) in IVF cycles. Pregnancy and delivery rates were similar for both IUI and IVF. CONCLUSION D + C significantly increases AFC and improves ovarian responsiveness during IUI and IVF without a difference in clinical outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Itai Gat
- a CReATe Fertility Centre , Toronto , Canada
- b Pinchas Borenstein Talpiot Medical Leadership Program, Sheba Medical Center , Tel HaShomer , Ramat Gan , Israel
| | - Sonia Blanco Mejia
- c Toronto West Fertility Center , Etobicoke , Canada
- d Risk Factor Modification Center, St. Michael's Hospital , Toronto , Canada
| | | | - Clifford L Librach
- a CReATe Fertility Centre , Toronto , Canada
- e Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology , University of Toronto , Canada
- f Department of Physiology , University of Toronto , Canada , and
- g Department of Gynecology , Women's College Hospital , Toronto , Canada
| | - Anne Claessens
- c Toronto West Fertility Center , Etobicoke , Canada
- e Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology , University of Toronto , Canada
| | - Edward A J Ryan
- c Toronto West Fertility Center , Etobicoke , Canada
- e Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology , University of Toronto , Canada
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zhang M, Niu W, Wang Y, Xu J, Bao X, Wang L, Du L, Sun Y. Dehydroepiandrosterone treatment in women with poor ovarian response undergoing IVF or ICSI: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:981-91. [PMID: 27094195 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0713-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Accepted: 03/30/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We reviewed the influence of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) supplementation in patients with poor ovarian response (POR) undergoing in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI). METHODS We searched Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library (1980-2015) for relevant papers and used the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale scoring system to evaluate study quality. Dichotomous data were expressed as pooled relative risk (RR) estimates with fixed or random effect models. Continuous variables were expressed as the weighted mean difference (WMD). All data were analyzed using Revman Software v. 5 and are shown with 95 % confidence intervals (CI). RESULTS Twenty-one studies met the inclusion criteria. DHEA pretreatment increased the clinical pregnancy rate (RR 1.53, 95 % CI 1.25-1.86), live birth rate (RR 1.87, 95 % CI 1.22-2.88), implantation rate (RR 1.56, 95 % CI 1.20-2.01), and antral follicle count (WMD 0.4, 95 % CI 0.14 to 0.66) while reducing miscarriages (RR 0.50, 95 % CI 0.27-0.90). After subgroup analysis, oocyte numbers and anti-Müllerian hormone levels were also enhanced after DHEA treatment. However, the endometrial thickness and estradiol levels on the day of injecting hCG to induce ovulation were similar between the DHEA supplementation groups and controls. CONCLUSIONS Based on the limited available evidence, DHEA supplementation seems to improve ovarian reserves and IVF/ICSI outcome in patients with POR. Further research is required to clarify the effect of DHEA exposure in assisted reproduction technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meixiang Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Wenbin Niu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiawei Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Xiao Bao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Linlin Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Linqing Du
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yingpu Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Tsui KH, Lin LT, Chang R, Huang BS, Cheng JT, Wang PH. Effects of dehydroepiandrosterone supplementation on women with poor ovarian response: A preliminary report and review. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol 2016; 54:131-6. [PMID: 25951716 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjog.2014.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/26/2014] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) supplementation on women with poor ovarian response (POR). MATERIALS AND METHODS Women with POR treated with flexible daily gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles at The Reproductive Center in Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital between January 2013 and October 2013, were enrolled for this prospective study. When patients failed to become pregnant during the first IVF cycle, they were treated with DHEA supplementation (30 mg, 3 times a day, orally) for 3 months (mean 12.2 weeks) before the next IVF cycle. Parameters of biochemical, ultrasound and treatment outcomes were compared before and after DHEA supplementation. RESULTS Ten patients with a mean age of 36.6 ± 4.2 years were identified. After DHEA treatment, there was a significant increase in antral follicle count, from 2.8 ± 1.0 to 4.1 ± 1.2 (p < 0.05), and anti-Müllerian hormone, from 0.4 ± 0.2 ng/mL to 0.84 ± 0.2 ng/mL (p < 0.001). A significant decrease of Day 3 follicle-stimulating hormone and estradiol, from 14.4 ± 1.7 mIU/mL to 10.1 ± 0.7 mIU/mL and from 51.2 ± 6.3 pg/mL to 35.2 ± 4.2 pg/mL, respectively (both p < 0.001), was noted. Increased numbers of retrieved oocytes (from 2.4 ± 1.1 to 4.2 ± 1.2; p < 0.01), fertilized oocytes (from 1.7 ± 0.5 to 3.8 ± 1.1; p < 0.001), Day 3 embryos (from 1.7 ± 0.5 to 3.7 ± 1.1; p < 0.001) and transferred embryos (from 1.7 ± 0.8 to 2.8 ± 0.8; p < 0.01) were also seen in these women with POR after DHEA treatment. Three women became pregnant after DHEA treatment. CONCLUSION The potential benefits of DHEA supplementation in women with POR were suggested by the biochemical parameters and IVF outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kuan-Hao Tsui
- Department of Biological Science, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Pharmacy and Graduate Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology, Tajen University, Yanpu, Taiwan
| | - Li-Te Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Su-Ao and Yuanshan Branch, Ilan, Taiwan
| | - Renin Chang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ben-Shian Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University Hospital, Ilan, Taiwan
| | - Jiin-Tsuey Cheng
- Department of Biological Science, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
| | - Peng-Hui Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University School of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University Hospital, Ilan, Taiwan; Division of Gynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Immunology Center, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
Although hormonal regulation of ovarian follicle development has been extensively investigated, most studies concentrate on the development of early antral follicles to the preovulatory stage, leading to the successful use of exogenous FSH for infertility treatment. Accumulating data indicate that preantral follicles are under stringent regulation by FSH and local intraovarian factors, thus providing the possibility to develop new therapeutic approaches. Granulosa cell-derived C-type natriuretic factor not only suppresses the final maturation of oocytes to undergo germinal vesicle breakdown before ovulation but also promotes preantral and antral follicle growth. In addition, several oocyte- and granulosa cell-derived factors stimulate preantral follicle growth by acting through wingless, receptor tyrosine kinase, receptor serine kinase, and other signaling pathways. In contrast, the ovarian Hippo signaling pathway constrains follicle growth and disruption of Hippo signaling promotes the secretion of downstream CCN growth factors capable of promoting follicle growth. Although the exact hormonal factors involved in primordial follicle activation has yet to be elucidated, the protein kinase B (AKT) and mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathways are important for the activation of dormant primordial follicles. Hippo signaling disruption after ovarian fragmentation, combined with treating ovarian fragments with phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) inhibitors and phosphoinositide-3-kinase stimulators to augment AKT signaling, promote the growth of preantral follicles in patients with primary ovarian insufficiency, leading to a new infertility intervention for such patients. Elucidation of intraovarian mechanisms underlying early folliculogenesis may allow the development of novel therapeutic strategies for patients diagnosed with primary ovarian insufficiency, polycystic ovary syndrome, and poor ovarian response to FSH stimulation, as well as for infertile women of advanced reproductive age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aaron J W Hsueh
- Program of Reproductive and Stem Cell Biology (A.J.W.H., Y.C.), Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305-5317; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (K.K.), St. Mariana University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 216-8511, Japan; Department of Reproductive Medicine & Gynecology (B.C.J.M.F.), University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Abstract
Although dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulphate ester dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS) are the most abundant steroid hormones in the human circulation, its exact physiological role is not yet fully understood. In patients with adrenal insufficiency, secretion of DHEA is impaired, leading to decreased circulating DHEA and DHEAS levels, and to androgen deficiency in women. Replacement of DHEA in patients with adrenal insufficiency positively influence mood, sexuality and subjective health status. These effects are generally moderate and show high inter-individual variability. Limited evidence exists for immunomodulatory effects of DHEA. Although an increase of IGF-I levels has been documented, relevant effects on body composition, metabolic or cardiovascular parameters has not been observed in patients with adrenal insufficiency receiving DHEA. Larger-scale phase III studies are still lacking; therefore, initiation of DHEA replacement is decided on an individual basis, focussing on those patients with impaired well-being associated with signs and symptoms of androgen deficiency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Lang
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Unit, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Oberduerrbacher Strasse 6, D-97080 Wuerzburg, Germany.
| | - Stephanie Burger-Stritt
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Unit, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Oberduerrbacher Strasse 6, D-97080 Wuerzburg, Germany.
| | - Stefanie Hahner
- Endocrinology and Diabetes Unit, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Oberduerrbacher Strasse 6, D-97080 Wuerzburg, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Poor responders and androgen adjuvant treatment: "Still haven't found what I'm looking for...". Reprod Biomed Online 2014; 28:661-2. [PMID: 24899085 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2014.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|