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Basar M, Unsal E, Ergun Y. Embryology with precision: effective quality control in the in vitro fertilization laboratory. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2024; 36:200-207. [PMID: 38572581 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to address the critical need for standardization and clarity in the use of key performance indicators (KPIs) within the realm of in vitro fertilization (IVF), particularly emphasizing the integration of preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) processes. This review is timely and relevant given the persistently modest success rates of IVF treatments, which stand at approximately 30%, and the growing complexity of IVF procedures, including PGT practices. The review synthesizes recent findings across studies focusing on technical and clinical KPIs in embryology and genetic laboratories, identifying gaps in current research and practice, particularly the lack of standardized KPIs and terminology. Recent findings highlighted include the critical evaluation of technical KPIs such as Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) fertilization rates, embryo development rates, and laboratory performance metrics, alongside clinical KPIs like the proportion of mature oocytes and clinical pregnancy rates. Notably, the review uncovers a significant gap in integrating and standardizing KPIs for PGT applications, which is essential for improving IVF outcomes and genetic diagnostic accuracy. The implications of these findings are profound for both clinical practice and research. For clinical practice, establishing a standardized set of KPIs, especially for PGT, could significantly enhance the success rates of IVF treatments by providing clearer benchmarks for quality and performance. For research, this review underscores the necessity for further studies to close the identified gaps, promoting a more integrated and standardized approach to KPIs in IVF and PGT processes. This comprehensive approach will not only aid in improving clinical outcomes but also in advancing the field of reproductive medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murat Basar
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven
- Yale Fertility Center, Orange, Connecticut
| | - Evrim Unsal
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven
- Yale Fertility Center, Orange, Connecticut
| | - Yagmur Ergun
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA, New Jersey, Marlton, New Jersey, USA
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Cutting ER, Abdallah KS, Mol BW. Is there a treatable cause of repeated implantation failure, or is it simply treatment failure by chance? Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 48:103845. [PMID: 38636349 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2024.103845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does repeated implantation failure (RIF) sometimes have a cause, or is it simply treatment failure by chance? DESIGN A hypothetical model of a cohort of 1000 women undergoing four repeated IVF attempts was constructed. A proportion of women with RIF carried an underlying risk factor negatively affecting implantation, compared with women without the factor. In strategy A, women had standard IVF without additional treatment; in strategy B, the women received standard IVF plus an additional treatment. The sensitivity analysis varied the prevalence of the underlying risk factor from 5% to 50%. The model was compared with literature studies where a treatment strategy had been applied. RESULTS With strategy A, the clinical pregnancy rate decreased with subsequent IVF attempts (31% in the first transfer with a risk factor prevalence of 5%, to 8% in the fourth transfer with a risk factor prevalence of 50%). As the prevalence increased, the clinical pregnancy rate was higher with strategy A. For strategy B, the clinical pregnancy rates for the modelled cohort decreased with each subsequent IVF attempt. Regardless of the prevalence of the risk factor, the decline in clinical pregnancy rate was less strong (from 32% in the first transfer with a prevalence of 5%, to 25% in the fourth transfer with a prevalence of 50%). When applying the model to the literature studies, the trends expected for strategy B (decreasing clinical pregnancy rates) were not expressed. CONCLUSIONS RIF might therefore be of iatrogenic origin due to the low success rate of IVF and might be triggered by the increasing female age associated with higher numbers of RIF.
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Affiliation(s)
- E R Cutting
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
| | - K S Abdallah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - B W Mol
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Womens and Children's Program Monash Health, Clayton, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Aberdeen Centre for Women's Health Research, School of Medicine, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
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Kan-Tor Y, Srebnik N, Gavish M, Shalit U, Buxboim A. Evaluating the heterogeneous effect of extended culture to blastocyst transfer on the implantation outcome via causal inference in fresh ICSI cycles. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:703-715. [PMID: 38321264 PMCID: PMC10957840 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03023-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE In IVF treatments, extended culture to single blastocyst transfer is the recommended protocol over cleavage-stage transfer. However, evidence-based criteria for assessing the heterogeneous implications on implantation outcomes are lacking. The purpose of this work is to estimate the causal effect of blastocyst transfer on implantation outcome. METHODS We fit a causal forest model using a multicenter observational dataset that includes an exogenous source of variability in treatment assignment and has a strong claim for satisfying the assumptions needed for valid causal inference from observational data. RESULTS We quantified the probability difference in embryo implantation if transferred as a blastocyst versus cleavage stage. Blastocyst transfer increased the average implantation rate; however, we revealed a subpopulation of embryos whose implantation potential is predicted to increase via cleavage-stage transfer. CONCLUSION Relative to the current policy, the proposed embryo transfer policy retrospectively improves implantation rate from 0.2 to 0.27. Our work demonstrates the efficacy of implementing causal inference in reproductive medicine and motivates its utilization in medical disciplines that are dominated by retrospective datasets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoav Kan-Tor
- Rachel and Selim Benin School for Computer Science and Engineering, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, The Edmond J. Safra Campus Givat Ram, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel
- The Center for Interdisciplinary Data Science Research, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, The Edmond J. Safra Campus, Givat Ram, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Naama Srebnik
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, The Edmond J. Safra Campus, Givat Ram, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel
- Hebrew University School of Medicine, In Vitro Fertilization Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, 9103102, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Matan Gavish
- Rachel and Selim Benin School for Computer Science and Engineering, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, The Edmond J. Safra Campus Givat Ram, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel
- The Center for Interdisciplinary Data Science Research, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, The Edmond J. Safra Campus, Givat Ram, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Uri Shalit
- Data and Decision Sciences, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, 3200003, Haifa, Israel
| | - Amnon Buxboim
- Rachel and Selim Benin School for Computer Science and Engineering, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, The Edmond J. Safra Campus Givat Ram, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel.
- The Center for Interdisciplinary Data Science Research, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, The Edmond J. Safra Campus, Givat Ram, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel.
- Alexander Grass Center for Bioengineering, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, The Edmond J. Safra Campus, Givat Ram, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel.
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Almohammadi A, Choucair F, El Taha L, Burjaq H, Albader M, Cavanillas AB, Awwad JT. The reproductive potential of vitrified-warmed euploid embryos declines following repeated uterine transfers. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2024; 22:23. [PMID: 38350949 PMCID: PMC10863213 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-024-01192-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) represents a vague clinical condition with an unclear diagnostic challenge that lacks solid scientific underpinning. Although euploid embryos have demonstrated consistent implantation capabilities across various age groups, a unanimous agreement regarding the advantages of preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) in managing RIF is absent. The ongoing discussion about whether chromosomal aneuploidy in embryos significantly contributes to recurrent implantation failure remains unsettled. Despite active discussions in recent times, a universally accepted characterization of recurrent implantation failure remains elusive. We aimed in this study to measure the reproductive performance of vitrified-warmed euploid embryos transferred to the uterus in successive cycles. METHODS This observational cohort study included women (n = 387) with an anatomically normal uterus who underwent oocyte retrieval for PGT-A treatment with at least one biopsied blastocyst, between January 2017 and December 2021 at a university-affiliated public fertility center. The procedures involved in this study included ICSI, blastocyst culture, trophectoderm biopsy and comprehensive 24-chromosome analysis of preimplantation embryos using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS). Women, who failed a vitrified-warmed euploid embryo transfer, had successive blastocyst transfer cycles (FET) for a total of three using remaining cryopreserved euploid blastocysts from the same oocyte retrieval cycle. The primary endpoints were sustained implantation rate (SIR) and live birth rate (LBR) per vitrified-warmed single euploid embryo. The secondary endpoints were mean euploidy rate (m-ER) per cohort of biopsied blastocysts from each patient, as well as pregnancy and miscarriage rates. RESULTS The mean age of the patient population was 33.4 years (95% CI 32.8-33.9). A total of 1,641 embryos derived from the first oocyte retrieval cycle were biopsied and screened. We found no associations between the m-ER and the number of previous failed IVF cycles among different ranges of maternal age at oocyte retrieval (P = 0.45). Pairwise comparisons showed a significant decrease in the sustained implantation rate (44.7% vs. 30%; P = 0.01) and the livebirth rate per single euploid blastocyst (37.1% vs. 25%; P = 0.02) between the 1st and 3rd FET. The cumulative SIR and LBR after up to three successive single embryo transfers were 77.1% and 68.8%, respectively. We found that the live birth rate of the first vitrified-warmed euploid blastocyst transferred decreased significantly with the increasing number of previously failed IVF attempts by categories (45.3% vs. 35.8% vs. 27.6%; P = 0.04). A comparable decrease in sustained implantation rate was also observed but did not reach statistical significance (50% vs. 44.2 vs. 37.9%; P = NS). Using a logistic regression model, we confirmed the presence of a negative association between the number of previous IVF failed attempts and the live birth rate per embryo transfer cycle (OR = 0.76; 95% CI 0.62-0.94; P = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS These findings are vital for enhancing patient counseling and refining management strategies for individuals facing recurrent implantation failure. By tailoring interventions based on age and ovarian reserve, healthcare professionals can offer more personalized guidance, potentially improving the overall success rates and patient experiences in fertility treatments. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Almohammadi
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Granada, Granada, 18071, 11, Spain
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Sidra Medicine, OPC Bldg. Level 3. Office 302. Al Luqta St. Education City North Campus. Qatar Foundation, Doha, PO BOX 26999, Qatar
| | - F Choucair
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Sidra Medicine, OPC Bldg. Level 3. Office 302. Al Luqta St. Education City North Campus. Qatar Foundation, Doha, PO BOX 26999, Qatar
| | - L El Taha
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Sidra Medicine, OPC Bldg. Level 3. Office 302. Al Luqta St. Education City North Campus. Qatar Foundation, Doha, PO BOX 26999, Qatar
| | - H Burjaq
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, 3050, Qatar
| | - M Albader
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, 3050, Qatar
| | - A B Cavanillas
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Granada, Granada, 18071, 11, Spain
| | - Johnny T Awwad
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Sidra Medicine, OPC Bldg. Level 3. Office 302. Al Luqta St. Education City North Campus. Qatar Foundation, Doha, PO BOX 26999, Qatar.
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
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Fujii S, Oguchi T. The number of previous implantation failures is a critical determinant of intrauterine autologous platelet-rich plasma infusion success in women with recurrent implantation failure. Reprod Med Biol 2024; 23:e12565. [PMID: 38435746 PMCID: PMC10904764 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose We aimed to identify factors influencing the reproductive outcomes of frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) with intrauterine autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) infusion in patients with either a thin endometrium or recurrent implantation failure (RIF) despite a normal endometrial appearance. Methods In this retrospective study of women who underwent PRP-FET, factors influencing PRP-FET outcomes were identified using multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results We enrolled 111 patients (70 with refractory thin endometrium and 41 with RIF but no thin endometrium). For 99 completed FET cycles, the β-hCG positivity rate was 46.7%, clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) was 41.0%, and live birth rate (LBR) was 36.2%. PRP treatment was associated with significant improvements over previous cycles, and participants with thin endometria demonstrated thickening. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the number of previous implantation failures in women with RIF was a significant factor affecting the PRP-FET outcomes. The CPR and LBR of women with RIF were lower when there had been ≥3 previous implantation failures occurred. Conclusions Intrauterine PRP infusion improves the pregnancy outcomes of patients with RIF or a thin endometrium. The number of previous implantation failures is a critical determinant of successful intrauterine PRP infusions in women with RIF.
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Deng H, Wang S, Li Z, Xiao L, Ma L. Effect of intrauterine infusion of platelet-rich plasma for women with recurrent implantation failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2023; 43:2144177. [PMID: 36397660 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2022.2144177] [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] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluated the effect of intrauterine perfusion of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) on pregnancy outcomes in women with recurrent implantation failure (RIF). Key biomedical databases were searched to identify relevant clinical trials and observational studies. Outcomes included clinical pregnancy rate, chemical pregnancy rate, implantation rate, live birth rate, and abortion rate. Data was extracted from ten studies (six randomised controlled trials, four cohort studies) involving 1555 patients. Pregnancy outcomes were improved in women treated with PRP compared to controls: clinical pregnancy rate (RR = 1.96, 95% CI [1.67, 2.31], p < 0.00001, I2 = 46%), chemical pregnancy rate (RR = 1.79, 95% CI [1.54, 2.08], p < 0.00001, I2 = 29%), implantation rate (RR = 1.90, CI [1.50, 2.41], p < 0.00001, I2 = 0%), live birth rate (RR = 2.83, CI [1.45, 5.52], p = 0.0007, I2 = 83%), abortion rate (RR = 0.40, 95% CI [0.18, 0.90], p = 0.03, I2 = 59%). These data imply PRP has potential to improve pregnancy outcomes in women with RIF, suggesting a promising role in assisted reproductive technology.IMPACT STATEMENTWhat is already known on this subject? Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous blood product that contains platelets, various growth factors, and cytokines at concentrations above the normal baseline level. Recent studies have shown that intrauterine infusion of autologous PRP can improve pregnancy outcomes in infertile women.What do the results of this study add? This systematic review and meta-analysis of data from ten studies (n = 1555; 775 cases and 780 controls) investigated the effect of intrauterine perfusion of autologous PRP on pregnancy outcomes in women with recurrent implantation failure (RIF). Findings suggest that pregnancy outcomes, including clinical pregnancy rate, chemical pregnancy rate, implantation rate, live birth rate and abortion rate were improved in women treated with PRP compared to controls.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? RIF remains a challenge for researchers, clinicians, and patients. Our study identified PRP as a potential intervention in assisted reproduction. As an autologous blood preparation, PRP eliminates the risk of an immune response and transmission of disease. PRP is low cost and effective and may represent a new approach to the treatment of patients with RIF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyu Deng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P. R. China
| | - Suqing Wang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P. R. China
| | - Zhijie Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P. R. China
| | - Lingfei Xiao
- Department of Spine Surgery and Musculoskeletal Tumor, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P. R. China
| | - Ling Ma
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P. R. China
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Surcel M, Neamtiu IA, Muresan D, Goidescu I, Staicu A, Marta MM, Nemeti G, Harsa R, Doroftei B, Capilna ME, Caracostea G. Killer Cell Immunoglobulin-like Receptor Genotypes and Reproductive Outcomes in a Group of Infertile Women: A Romanian Study. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:3048. [PMID: 37835791 PMCID: PMC10572162 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13193048] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
A growing body of evidence suggests that endometrial immune disorders may be responsible for endometrial dysfunctions that can lead to gynecological and obstetrical pathology. The aim of this study was to explore the potential relationship between different killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) genotypes and reproductive outcomes. We conducted a prospective cohort study that included 104 infertile patients undergoing an in vitro fertilization procedure. All participants underwent clinical and ultrasound examination, genetic evaluation (KIR genotyping), endometrial washing fluid sampling for cytokine determination, endometrial tissue sampling for histologic assessment and hysteroscopic evaluation. Our analysis showed statistically significant lower levels of uterine cytokines TNF-α (p = 0.001) and IL-1beta (p = 0.000) in the KIR AA genotype group as compared to KIR AB and BB among study participants with chronic endometritis. The study results suggest that the KIR AA genotype population subgroups may be more susceptible to developing endometrial disorders such as chronic endometritis. The changes in the behavior of NK cells seem to be subtle and expressed as an altered regulatory pattern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihai Surcel
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 3-5 Clinicilor Street, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (M.S.); (D.M.); (I.G.); (A.S.); (G.N.); (G.C.)
| | - Iulia Adina Neamtiu
- Health Department, Environmental Health Center, Part of ALS, 58 Busuiocului Street, 400240 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University, 30 Fantanele Street, 400294 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Daniel Muresan
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 3-5 Clinicilor Street, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (M.S.); (D.M.); (I.G.); (A.S.); (G.N.); (G.C.)
| | - Iulian Goidescu
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 3-5 Clinicilor Street, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (M.S.); (D.M.); (I.G.); (A.S.); (G.N.); (G.C.)
| | - Adelina Staicu
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 3-5 Clinicilor Street, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (M.S.); (D.M.); (I.G.); (A.S.); (G.N.); (G.C.)
| | - Monica Mihaela Marta
- Department of Medical Education, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 3-5 Clinicilor Street, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Georgiana Nemeti
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 3-5 Clinicilor Street, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (M.S.); (D.M.); (I.G.); (A.S.); (G.N.); (G.C.)
| | - Radu Harsa
- In Vitro fertilization Department, “Regina Maria” Hospital, 29 Dorobantilor Street, 400117 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Bogdan Doroftei
- Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 University Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Mihai Emil Capilna
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Medicine, Pharmacy Science and Technology “George Emil Palade”, 38 Gheorghe Marinescu, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania;
| | - Gabriela Caracostea
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 3-5 Clinicilor Street, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (M.S.); (D.M.); (I.G.); (A.S.); (G.N.); (G.C.)
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Parraga-Leo A, Sebastian-Leon P, Devesa-Peiro A, Marti-Garcia D, Pellicer N, Remohi J, Dominguez F, Diaz-Gimeno P. Deciphering a shared transcriptomic regulation and the relative contribution of each regulator type through endometrial gene expression signatures. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:84. [PMID: 37700285 PMCID: PMC10496172 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01131-4] [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: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGORUND While various endometrial biomarkers have been characterized at the transcriptomic and functional level, there is generally a poor overlap among studies, making it unclear to what extent their upstream regulators (e.g., ovarian hormones, transcription factors (TFs) and microRNAs (miRNAs)) realistically contribute to menstrual cycle progression and function. Unmasking the intricacies of the molecular interactions in the endometrium from a novel systemic point of view will help gain a more accurate perspective of endometrial regulation and a better explanation the molecular etiology of endometrial-factor infertility. METHODS An in-silico analysis was carried out to identify which regulators consistently target the gene biomarkers proposed in studies related to endometrial progression and implantation failure (19 gene lists/signatures were included). The roles of these regulators, and of genes related to progesterone and estrogens, were then analysed in transcriptomic datasets compiled from samples collected throughout the menstrual cycle (n = 129), and the expression of selected TFs were prospectively validated in an independent cohort of healthy participants (n = 19). RESULTS A total of 3,608 distinct genes from the 19 gene lists were associated with endometrial progression and implantation failure. The lists' regulation was significantly favoured by TFs (89% (17/19) of gene lists) and progesterone (47% (8 /19) of gene lists), rather than miRNAs (5% (1/19) of gene lists) or estrogen (0% (0/19) of gene lists), respectively (FDR < 0.05). Exceptionally, two gene lists that were previously associated with implantation failure and unexplained infertility were less hormone-dependent, but primarily regulated by estrogen. Although endometrial progression genes were mainly targeted by hormones rather than non-hormonal contributors (odds ratio = 91.94, FDR < 0.05), we identified 311 TFs and 595 miRNAs not previously associated with ovarian hormones. We highlight CTCF, GATA6, hsa-miR-15a-5p, hsa-miR-218-5p, hsa-miR-107, hsa-miR-103a-3p, and hsa-miR-128-3p, as overlapping novel master regulators of endometrial function. The gene expression changes of selected regulators throughout the menstrual cycle (FDR < 0.05), dually validated in-silico and through endometrial biopsies, corroborated their potential regulatory roles in the endometrium. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed novel hormonal and non-hormonal regulators and their relative contributions to endometrial progression and pathology, providing new leads for the potential causes of endometrial-factor infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Parraga-Leo
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Av. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026, Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Universidad de Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibáñez 15, 46010, Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Patricia Sebastian-Leon
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Av. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026, Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Almudena Devesa-Peiro
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Av. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026, Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Universidad de Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibáñez 15, 46010, Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Diana Marti-Garcia
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Av. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026, Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Universidad de Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibáñez 15, 46010, Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Nuria Pellicer
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Av. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026, Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA Valencia, Plaza de La Policia Local 3, 46015, Valencia, Spain
| | - Jose Remohi
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Universidad de Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibáñez 15, 46010, Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA Valencia, Plaza de La Policia Local 3, 46015, Valencia, Spain
| | - Francisco Dominguez
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Av. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026, Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Patricia Diaz-Gimeno
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Av. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026, Valencia, Valencia, Spain.
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Rozen G, Polyakov A. Prednisone and Live Birth Rate in Patients With Recurrent Implantation Failure. JAMA 2023; 330:971. [PMID: 37698569 DOI: 10.1001/jama.2023.12631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Genia Rozen
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, Melbourne University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alex Polyakov
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Ma N, Li J, Zhang J, Jin Y, Wang J, Qin W, Hang F, Qin A. Combined oral antibiotics and intrauterine perfusion can improve in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer pregnancy outcomes in patients with chronic endometritis and repeated embryo implantation failure. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:344. [PMID: 37391748 PMCID: PMC10311699 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02443-8] [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: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate whether oral antibiotics (doxycycline and metronidazole) combined with intrauterine perfusion (gentamicin and dexamethasone) are beneficial for patients with repeated implantation failure (RIF) and chronic endometritis (CE) to improve clinical pregnancy outcomes. METHODS Patients with RIF and CE were diagnosed using hysteroscopy and histology together. A total of 42 patients were enrolled in the study. All patients received oral antibiotics (doxycycline combined with metronidazole) and 22 patients underwent intrauterine perfusion (gentamicin combined with dexamethasone) immediately after the end of oral antibiotic therapy. Pregnancy outcomes were evaluated during the first in vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo transfer (ET) cycle. RESULTS For the first D3 ET after treatment with oral antibiotics (doxycycline and metronidazole) combined with intrauterine perfusion (gentamicin and dexamethasone), higher embryo implantation rate (30.95% vs. 26.67%, P = 0.0308), clinical pregnancy rate (30% vs. 50%, P < 0.001), live birth rate (33.33% vs. 45.45%, P < 0.0001). No fetal malformations or ectopic pregnancies were observed. CONCLUSION We report oral antibiotics (doxycycline and metronidazole) combined with intrauterine perfusion (gentamicin and dexamethasone) as a novel treatment for CE to improve the outcomes of successful pregnancy compared with those of oral antibiotics alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nana Ma
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Jiaxu Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Junlei Zhang
- Department of Sports Medicine, Southern University of Science And Technology Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yufu Jin
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Jiawei Wang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Weili Qin
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Fu Hang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China.
| | - Aiping Qin
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China.
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11
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Richter KS, Richter ML. Personalized embryo transfer reduces success rates because endometrial receptivity analysis fails to accurately identify the window of implantation. Hum Reprod 2023:7147081. [PMID: 37119530 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead083] [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: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023] Open
Abstract
After more than a decade of increasingly widespread clinical use, personalized embryo transfer guided by endometrial receptivity analysis (ERA) remains controversial and unproven. One key element missing from the historical literature is the recognition that potential benefits from personalized embryo transfer are entirely dependent on the accuracy and predictive value of the ERA test. Results from the first comprehensive clinical trial, designed in a way that allowed independent evaluation of both potential benefits of personalized embryo transfer and the predictive value of the ERA test upon which it is based, were recently published. However, the authors failed to conduct an appropriate analysis or recognize the significance of their results. Here, we present a simple reanalysis of data from this otherwise excellent randomized controlled trial, demonstrating for the first time that the ERA was unable to identify the window of implantation as purported and that, as a result, personalized embryo transfer based on the ERA actually reduced rather than increased the birth rates. Based on these results and the lack of any contradictory evidence, it is our opinion that all clinical use of ERA-guided personalized embryo transfer should be discontinued immediately, outside of a controlled experimental setting with appropriate informed consent of all participating patients.
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Coutanceau B, Dos Santos E, Swierkowski Blanchard N, Sanchez Louboutin A, Boitrelle F, Margueritte F, Vialard F, Serazin V, Fathallah K. Should the Treatment of Patients with Repeated Embryo Implantation Failure Be Adapted as a Function of the Endometrial Cytokine Profile? A Single-Center Experience. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11030817. [PMID: 36979796 PMCID: PMC10044898 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11030817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Repeated embryo implantation failures (RIF) is a source of distress and frustration for patients and clinicians alike. Today's approaches for treating RIF are largely empirical and have limited effectiveness. The main causes of RIF are poor endometrial receptivity and poor-quality embryos. Recent studies have suggested the involvement of immune dysregulation due to an imbalance between T-helper (Th) 1 and Th2 cytokines; this opens up perspectives for treating women with RIF and increasing the implantation rate. We conducted an interventional, longitudinal, prospective cohort study of the impact of correcting the cytokine imbalance on the clinical pregnancy rate in women with RIF. Seventy-seven women with RIF underwent an endometrial biopsy during the implantation window. The cytokine profile was evaluated by studying the activation and maturation of uterine natural killer (uNK) cells, the IL-15/Fn-14 mRNA ratio (a biomarker of uNK activation/maturation), and the IL-18/TWEAK mRNA ratio (a marker of angiogenesis and the Th1/Th2 balance). Personalized treatment was initiated for women with an abnormal endometrial cytokine profile (hyper-activation or hypo-activation). We documented the clinical pregnancy rate after subsequent embryo transfers. In total, 72.7% (56/77) of patients had an abnormal endometrial cytokine profile (hyper-activation in 68.8% (n = 53) and hypo-activation in 3.9% (n = 3). After treatment (or not) as a function of the endometrial profile, the overall clinical pregnancy rate was 30.2%. Our results indicated a potential positive effect of appropriate treatment on the ongoing pregnancy rate in women with RIF, despite the small number of cases analyzed. The results must now be validated in randomized studies with larger numbers of well-characterized patients. By applying a previously published decision tree, this treatment approach could be implemented in clinics worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bérangère Coutanceau
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Poissy-Saint-Germain-en-Laye Hospital, 78300 Poissy, France
| | - Esther Dos Santos
- Medical Biology Laboratory, Poissy-Saint-Germain-en-Laye Hospital, 78300 Poissy, France
- RhUMA Team, UMR-BREED (INRAE, UVSQ, ENVA), UFR Simone Veil-Santé, 78180 Montigny le Bretonneux, France
| | | | - Anne Sanchez Louboutin
- Department of Anatomy and Pathology, Poissy-Saint-Germain-en-Laye Hospital, 78300 Poissy, France
| | - Florence Boitrelle
- Reproductive Biology Department, Poissy-Saint-Germain-en-Laye Hospital, 78300 Poissy, France
| | - François Margueritte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Poissy-Saint-Germain-en-Laye Hospital, 78300 Poissy, France
| | - François Vialard
- RhUMA Team, UMR-BREED (INRAE, UVSQ, ENVA), UFR Simone Veil-Santé, 78180 Montigny le Bretonneux, France
- Department of Genetics, Poissy-Saint-Germain-en-Laye Hospital, 78300 Poissy, France
| | - Valérie Serazin
- Medical Biology Laboratory, Poissy-Saint-Germain-en-Laye Hospital, 78300 Poissy, France
- RhUMA Team, UMR-BREED (INRAE, UVSQ, ENVA), UFR Simone Veil-Santé, 78180 Montigny le Bretonneux, France
| | - Khadija Fathallah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Poissy-Saint-Germain-en-Laye Hospital, 78300 Poissy, France
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13
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Vani V, Vasan SS, Adiga SK, Varsha SR, Seshagiri PB. Molecular regulators of human blastocyst development and hatching: Their significance in implantation and pregnancy outcome. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 89:e13635. [PMID: 36254379 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In humans, blastocyst hatching and implantation events are two sequential, critically linked and rate-limiting events for a prospective pregnancy. These events are regulated by embryo-endometrium derived molecular factors which include hormones, growth factors, cytokines, immune-modulators, cell adhesion molecules and proteases. Due to poor viability of blastocysts, they fail to hatch and implant, leading to a low 'Live Birth Rates', majorly contributing to infertility. Here, embryo-derived biomarkers analysis plays a key role to assess potential biological viability of blastocysts which are capable of implantation and prospective pregnancy. Thus far, embryo-derived biomarkers examined are mostly immune-modulators which are thought to be associated with blastocyst development-implantation and progression of pregnancy, leading to live births. There is an urgent need to develop a quantitative and a reliable non-invasive approach aiding embryo selection for elective single embryo transfer and to minimize recurrent pregnancy loss and multiple pregnancies. In this article, we provide a comprehensive review on our current knowledge and understanding of potential embryo-derived molecular regulators, that is, biomarkers, of development of human blastocysts, their hatching and implantation. We discuss their potential implications in the assessment of blastocyst implantation potential and pregnancy outcome in terms of live births in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venkatappa Vani
- Indian Institute of Science, Department of Molecular Reproduction, Development and Genetics, Sir C.V. Raman Road, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | | | - Satish K Adiga
- Kasturba Medical College, Department of Clinical Embryology, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | | | - Polani B Seshagiri
- Indian Institute of Science, Department of Molecular Reproduction, Development and Genetics, Sir C.V. Raman Road, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
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14
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Mirzaei M, Amirajam S, Moghimi ES, Behzadi S, Rohani A, Zerangian N, Samani NK, Soudagar S, Ghazanfarpour M. The effects of hydroxychloroquine on pregnancy outcomes in infertile women: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Med Life 2023; 16:189-194. [PMID: 36937474 PMCID: PMC10015562 DOI: 10.25122/jml-2022-0095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 03/21/2023] Open
Abstract
A promising strategy for controlling repeated implantation failure (RIF) may be the use of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ). To the best of our knowledge, no systematic review has been conducted on the effects of hydroxychloroquine on pregnancy outcomes. A systematic research of the following electronic databases was conducted: Cochrane, EMBASE-Ovid, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus from inception to December 2021, using the following keywords [hydroxychloroquine] AND [infertility]. Fertilization and rate of live birth were significantly higher in the HCQ+ prednisone (PDN) group than in the PDN alone group. However, the abortion rate was not different between the two groups. The meta-analysis of two studies revealed no statistical significance between the PDN group and HCQ+PDN group regarding clinical pregnancy rate (OR=.14 [95%CI: 0.4-4.370]; heterogeneity; P=0.13; I2=54%; random effect model) and implantation rate (OR=1.99 [95%CI: 0.94-4.2]; heterogeneity; P=0.37; I2=0%; fixed-effect model). While HCQ may help improve fertilization and live birth rates, adding it to prednisone did not improve overall pregnancy outcomes. This systematic review should be used with caution due to the small size, study design, and difference in the studies' population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Mirzaei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Sara Amirajam
- Avicenna Infertility Clinic, Avicenna Research Institute, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Soudabeh Behzadi
- Student Research Committee, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Abbas Rohani
- Department of Educational Psychology, Islamic Azad University Mobarakeh Branch, Esfahan, Iran
| | - Nasibeh Zerangian
- School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Neda Khalili Samani
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Social Security Organization, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Simin Soudagar
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Masumeh Ghazanfarpour
- Student Research Committee, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Corresponding Author: Masumeh Ghazanfarpour, Student Research Committee, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran. E-mail:
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15
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Lapides L, Klein M, Belušáková V, Csöbönyeiová M, Varga I, Babál P. Uterine Natural Killer Cells in the Context of Implantation: Immunohistochemical Analysis of Endometrial Samples from Women with Habitual Abortion and Recurrent Implantation Failure. Physiol Res 2022. [DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.935012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Infertility affects approximately 48 million couples globally. Despite the enormous progress of the methods of reproductive medicine that has been made since the first test-tube baby was born in 1978, the implantation rate of day-3 embryos is only around 15-20 % and 30 % of day-5 embryos. Numerous strategies aim to improve implantation rates and prevent repeated implantation failure. However, there is no specific general recommendation leading to satisfying results. One of the many risk factors relevant in this regard is the uterine immunological make-up, mainly the uterine Natural Killer (uNK) cells. They orchestrate the overall immune response during implantation by influencing trophoblast invasion and vascular remodeling and throughout pregnancy, uNK cells are also the main immune cells at the maternal–fetal interface. Previously, uNK count has been correlated with various fertility issues including idiopathic recurrent miscarriage. The present study used endometrial samples collected from 256 patients with recurrent implantation failure (RIF), habitual abortion (HA) and idiopathic sterility. Samples were collected between day 19 and 21 of the menstrual cycle mainly by Pipelle endometrial sampling. The samples were fixed in formalin for 24 hours and further processed for immunohistochemistry using anti-CD56 to visualize this antigen marker of uNK cells. Immunohistochemical counting was performed to assess the low, normal, or elevated count of uNK cells. According to the one-way ANOVA test, the age of our patients did not have any influence on the count of uNK cells. With Spearman correlation analysis, we found statistically significant correlation (p-value 0.05) of -0.133 between prior miscarriage and lower uNK cell count. Using the same analysis we found statistically significant correlation (correlation 0.233 with p value 0.01) between number of uNK cells and activation status. Patients with higher uNK cells were more frequenty diagnosed with endometriosis (p-value 0.05, correlation 0.130). Patients with an immunological factor of sterility (defined by a clinical immunologist) had a lower chance of gravidity (-0.203 with p-value 0.01). Based on our results, we can confirm that there is a correlation between RIF, HA, idiopathic sterility, endometriosis, and immunological factor of sterility (uNK cell count). The true predictive value with regard to fertility outcomes needs to be addressed in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Lapides
- Institute of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovakia.
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16
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Dhadhal S, Nampoothiri L. Decoding the molecular cascade of embryonic-uterine modulators in pregnancy loss of PCOS mother- an "in vivo" study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:165. [PMID: 36476384 PMCID: PMC9727897 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-01041-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome is associated with an increased rate of spontaneous abortion/early pregnancy loss and pups delivered to PCOS animals were abnormal. Currently, assisted reproductive technology has been used to help numerous infertile couples to have their babies. However, there is a low implantation rate after the transfer of embryos. Till now, it could not be concluded whether the reduced pregnancy rates observed were due to abnormal embryos or endometrial modification. Further, transgenic mouse models have been used to find out the molecular deficits behind early pregnancy complications. But, the deletion of crucial genes could lead to systemic deficiencies/embryonic lethality. Also, pregnancy is a complex process with overlapping expression patterns making it challenging to mimic their stage-specific role. Therefore, the motive of the current study was to investigate the probable molecular cascade to decipher the early pregnancy loss in the letrozole-induced PCOS mouse model. METHODS PCOS was induced in mice by oral administration of letrozole daily for 21 days. Following, the pregnancy was established and animals were sacrificed on the day 6th of pregnancy. Animals were assessed for early pregnancy loss, hormonal profile, mRNA expression of steroid receptors (Ar, Pr, Esr1/2), decidualization markers (Hox10/11a), adhesion markers (Itgavb3, Itga4b1), matrix metalloproteinases and their endogenous inhibitor (Mmp2/9, Timp1/2) and key mediators of LIF/STAT pathway (Lif, Lifr, gp130, stat3) were analyzed in the embryo implanted region of the uterus. Morphological changes in ovaries and implanted regions of the uterus were assessed. RESULTS Mice treated with letrozole demonstrated significant increases in testosterone levels along with a decline in progesterone levels as compared to control animals. PCOS animals also exhibited decreased fertility index and disrupted ovarian and embryo-containing uterus histopathology. Altered gene expression of the steroid receptors and reduced expression of Hox10a, integrins, Mmp9, Timp1/3, Gp130 & Stat3 was observed in the implanted region of the uterus of PCOS animals. CONCLUSION Our results reveal that majority of the molecular markers alteration in the establishment of early pregnancy could be due to the aberrant progesterone signaling in the embryonic-uterine tissue of PCOS animals, which further translates into poor fetal outcomes as observed in the current study and in several IVF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Dhadhal
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara, Gujarat, 390002, India
| | - Laxmipriya Nampoothiri
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara, Gujarat, 390002, India.
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Growth Hormone Administration to Improve Reproductive Outcomes in Women with Recurrent Implantation Failure (RIF): a Systematic Review. Reprod Sci 2022; 30:1712-1723. [DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01124-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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18
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Comins-Boo A, Valdeolivas L, Pérez-Pla F, Cristóbal I, Subhi-Issa N, Domínguez-Soto Á, Pilar-Suárez L, Gasca-Escorial P, Calvo-Urrutia M, Fernández-Arquero M, Herráiz MÁ, Corbí Á, Sánchez-Ramón S. Immunophenotyping of peripheral blood monocytes could help identify a baseline pro-inflammatory profile in women with recurrent reproductive failure. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 154:103735. [PMID: 36063657 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103735] [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: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) and recurrent implantation failure (RIF) are two well-defined clinical entities, but the role of the monocytes in their pathophysiology needs to be clarified. This study aimed to evaluate the role of the three monocyte subsets (classical, intermediate, and non-classical) and relevant cytokines/chemokines in a cohort of RPL and RIF women to better characterize a baseline proinflammatory profile that could define inflammatory pathophysiology in these two different conditions. We evaluated 108 non-pregnant women: 53 RPL, 24 RIF, and 31 fertile healthy controls (HC). Multiparametric flow cytometry was used to quantify the frequency of surface chemokine receptors (CCR2, CCR5, and CX3CR1) on the monocyte subsets. Cytokines were assessed in plasma samples using a multiplex assay. The CX3CR1+ and CCR5+ intermediate monocytes were significantly higher in RPL and RIF compared to HC. A significant positive correlation was observed between CX3CR1+ intermediate monocytes and IL-17A (P = .03, r = 0.43). The Boruta algorithm followed by a multivariate logistic regression model was used to select the most relevant variables that could help define RPL and RIF: in RPL were CX3CR1 non-classical monocytes, TGF-β1, and CCR5 intermediate monocytes; in RIF: CCR5 intermediate monocytes and TGF-β3. The combination of these variables could predict RPL and RIF with 90 % and 82 %, respectively. Our study suggests that a combination of specific blood monocyte subsets and cytokines could aid in identifying RPL and RIF women with a pro-inflammatory profile. These findings could provide a more integrated understanding of these pathologies. Further investigation and validation in independent cohorts are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Comins-Boo
- Department of Immunology, IML, and IdSSC, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain; Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology, and ENT, School of Medicine, Complutense University School of Medicine, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lorena Valdeolivas
- Department of Immunology, IML, and IdSSC, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain; Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology, and ENT, School of Medicine, Complutense University School of Medicine, Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando Pérez-Pla
- Department of Applied Mathematics and Computational Science, University of Cantabria, Spain
| | - Ignacio Cristóbal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nabil Subhi-Issa
- Department of Immunology, IML, and IdSSC, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain; Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology, and ENT, School of Medicine, Complutense University School of Medicine, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángeles Domínguez-Soto
- Molecular Microbiology and Infection Biology Department, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lydia Pilar-Suárez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar Gasca-Escorial
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Calvo-Urrutia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Fernández-Arquero
- Department of Immunology, IML, and IdSSC, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain; Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology, and ENT, School of Medicine, Complutense University School of Medicine, Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel Ángel Herráiz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel Corbí
- Molecular Microbiology and Infection Biology Department, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
| | - Silvia Sánchez-Ramón
- Department of Immunology, IML, and IdSSC, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain; Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology, and ENT, School of Medicine, Complutense University School of Medicine, Madrid, Spain.
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Papúchová H, Saxtorph MH, Hallager T, Jepsen IE, Eriksen JO, Persson G, Funck T, Weisdorf I, Macklon NS, Larsen LG, Hviid TVF. Endometrial HLA-F expression is influenced by genotypes and correlates differently with immune cell infiltration in IVF and recurrent implantation failure patients. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:1816-1834. [PMID: 35689445 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-F protein expressed in mid-secretory endometrium, and are its expression levels influenced by HLA-F gene polymorphisms and correlated with the abundance of uterine natural killer (uNK) cells and anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages? SUMMARY ANSWER HLA-F protein is expressed in mid-secretory endometrium, and levels are correlated with immune cell infiltration, plasma progesterone concentrations and HLA-F single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), however, women experiencing recurrent implantation failure (RIF) show differences when compared to women attending their first IVF treatment. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The immunomodulatory HLA class Ib molecules HLA-G and HLA-F are expressed on the extravillous trophoblast cells and interact with receptors on maternal immune cells. Little is known regarding HLA-F expression in endometrial stroma and HLA-F function; furthermore, HLA-F and HLA-G SNP genotypes and haplotypes have been correlated with differences in time-to-pregnancy. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Primary endometrial stromal cell (ESC) cultures (n = 5) were established from endometrial biopsies from women attending IVF treatment at a fertility clinic. Basic HLA-F and HLA-G protein expression by the ESCs were investigated. A prospective controlled cohort study was performed including 85 women with a history of RIF and 36 control women beginning their first fertility treatment and with no history of RIF. In some analyses, the RIF group was divided into unknown cause, male infertility, female infertility, and both female and male infertility. Endometrial biopsies and blood samples were obtained the day equivalent to embryo transfer in a hormone-substituted cycle. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS HLA protein expression by ESCs was characterized using flow cytometry and western blot. In the cohort study, the specific immune markers HLA-F and HLA-G, CD56 and CD16 (NK cells), CD163 (M2 macrophages), FOXP3 (regulatory T cells) and CD138 (plasma cells) were analysed by immunohistochemistry and a digital image analysis system in endometrial biopsies. Endometrial receptivity was assessed by an endometrial receptivity array test (the ERA® test). Endometrial biopsies were examined according to modified Noyes' criteria. SNPs at the HLA-F gene and HLA-G haplotypes were determined. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE HLA-F protein is expressed in the endometrium at the time of implantation. Furthermore, the HLA-F protein levels were different according to the womeńs HLA-F SNP genotypes and diplotypes, which have previously been correlated with differences in time-to-pregnancy. Endometrial HLA-F was positively correlated with anti-inflammatory CD163+ M2 macrophage infiltration and CD56+ uNK cell abundance for the entire cohort. However, this was not the case for CD56+ in the female infertility RIF subgroup. HLA-F levels in the endometrial stroma were negatively correlated with plasma progesterone concentrations in the RIF subgroup with known female infertility. Conversely, HLA-F and progesterone were positively correlated in the RIF subgroup with infertility of the male partner and no infertility diagnosis of the woman indicating interconnections between progesterone, HLA-F and immune cell infiltration. Glandular sHLA-G expression was also positively correlated with uNK cell abundance in the RIF subgroup with no female infertility but negatively correlated in the RIF subgroup with a female infertility diagnosis. LARGE SCALE DATA Immunohistochemistry analyses of endometrial biopsies and DNA sequencing of HLA genes. Data will be shared upon reasonable request to the corresponding author. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The control group of women attending their first IVF treatment had an anticipated good prognosis but was not proven fertile. A significant age difference between the RIF group and the IVF group reflects the longer treatment period for women with a history of RIF. The standardization of hormonal endometrial preparation, which allowed consistent timing of endometrial and blood sampling, might be a strength because a more uniform hormonal background may more clearly show an influence on the immune marker profile and HLA class Ib levels in the endometrium by other factors, for example genetic polymorphisms. However, the immune marker profile might be different during a normal cycle. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The findings further highlight the importance of HLA-F and HLA-G at the implantation site and in early pregnancy for pregnancy success. Diagnostic measures and modulation of the complex interactions between HLA class Ib molecules, maternal immune cells and hormonal factors may have potential to improve fertility treatment. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the Region Zealand Health Sciences Research Foundation and the Zealand University Hospital through the ReproHealth Research Consortium ZUH. The authors declared there are no conflicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrieta Papúchová
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Centre for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,The ReproHealth Research Consortium, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Malene Hviid Saxtorph
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,The ReproHealth Research Consortium, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Fertility Clinic, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Trine Hallager
- The ReproHealth Research Consortium, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark.,Department of Pathology, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Ida E Jepsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,The ReproHealth Research Consortium, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Fertility Clinic, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Jens O Eriksen
- The ReproHealth Research Consortium, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark.,Department of Pathology, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Gry Persson
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Centre for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,The ReproHealth Research Consortium, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Tina Funck
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Centre for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,The ReproHealth Research Consortium, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Iben Weisdorf
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Centre for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,The ReproHealth Research Consortium, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Nicholas S Macklon
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,The ReproHealth Research Consortium, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Fertility Clinic, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark.,London Women's Clinic, London, UK
| | - Lise Grupe Larsen
- The ReproHealth Research Consortium, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark.,Department of Pathology, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Thomas Vauvert F Hviid
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Centre for Immune Regulation and Reproductive Immunology (CIRRI), Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,The ReproHealth Research Consortium, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark
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20
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Somigliana E, Busnelli A, Kalafat E, Viganò P, Ata B. Recurrent Implantation Failure: A plea for a widely adopted rational definition. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:183-185. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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21
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Recurrent Implantation Failure-Is It the Egg or the Chicken? LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 12:life12010039. [PMID: 35054432 PMCID: PMC8777926 DOI: 10.3390/life12010039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is an undefined, quite often, clinical phenomenon that can result from the repeated failure of embryo transfers to obtain a viable pregnancy. Careful clinical evaluation prior to assisted reproduction can uncover various treatable causes, including endocrine dysfunction, fibroid(s), polyp(s), adhesions, uterine malformations. Despite the fact that it is often encountered and has a critical role in Assisted Reproductive Technique (ART) and human reproduction, RIF’s do not yet have an agreed-on definition, and its etiologic factors have not been entirely determined. ART is a complex treatment with a variable percentage of success among patients and care providers. ART depends on several factors that are not always known and probably not always the same. When confronted with repeated ART failure, medical care providers should try to determine whether the cause is an embryo or endometrium related. One of the most common causes of pregnancy failure is aneuploidy. Therefore, it is likely that this represents a common cause of RIF. Other RIF potential causes include immune and endometrial factors; however, with a very poorly defined role. Recent data indicate that the possible endometrial causes of RIF are very rare, thereby throwing into doubt all endometrial receptivity assays. All recent reports indicate that the true origin of RIF is probably due to the “egg”.
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22
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Vani V, Vasan SS, Adiga SK, Varsha SR, Sachdeva G, Kumar P, Seshagiri PB. Soluble human leukocyte antigen-G is a potential embryo viability biomarker and a positive predictor of live-births in humans. Am J Reprod Immunol 2021; 86:e13499. [PMID: 34766406 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13499] [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: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Human infertility affects 15-20% of reproductive-age couples and it is mitigated by assisted reproductive technology (ART) approaches. Poor biological viability of embryos contributes to implantation failure and live birth rate (LBR). This study is aimed to examine whether or not embryo-secreted soluble human leukocyte antigen-G (sHLA-G) is (i) associated with developing embryos and (ii) able to predict successful pregnancy outcome. METHOD OF STUDY A retrospective, multicentric study using 539 human embryo spent medium samples (E-SMs), analysed for sHLA-G levels by ELISA. Correlation analysis was performed on sHLA-G levels with developing embryonic stages, their quality scores and pregnancy outcome in terms of LBR. RESULTS Of 539 E-SMs analysed, 445 had detectable sHLA-G (83%) with levels varying within and across clinics and, between stages of embryonic development. Levels of sHLA-G (ng/mL) were significantly (P < .05) different in E-SMs of cleavage-stage embryos versus blastocysts. There was an insignificant correlation between the sHLA-G levels and morphology scores of embryos. But, sHLA-G levels showed a positive correlation with grades of blastocysts and importantly, its levels were significantly (P < .05) higher in live-birth vis-a-vis no-birth cases. Also, levels were higher in live-births out of blastocysts-ETs versus cleavage-stage-embryo transfers. Altered levels were observed with embryos, which resulted in miscarriages. Overall, a significant (P < .0001) association of sHLA-G with live births was observed. CONCLUSION Embryo-derived sHLA-G can be a valuable embryo viability, independent, biomarker, which can predict live-birth outcome and it could be useful as an adjunct to existing criteria for elective single embryo transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venkatappa Vani
- Department of Molecular Reproduction, Development and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Sir C.V. Raman Road, Bangalore, India
| | - Satya S Vasan
- Manipal Ankur Andrology & Reproductive Services, Bangalore, India
| | - Satish K Adiga
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, India
| | | | | | - Pratap Kumar
- Department of Reproductive Medicine & Surgery, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, India
| | - Polani B Seshagiri
- Department of Molecular Reproduction, Development and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Sir C.V. Raman Road, Bangalore, India
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23
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Piekarska K, Radwan P, Tarnowska A, Wiśniewski A, Radwan M, Wilczyński JR, Malinowski A, Nowak I. ERAP, KIR, and HLA-C Profile in Recurrent Implantation Failure. Front Immunol 2021; 12:755624. [PMID: 34745129 PMCID: PMC8569704 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.755624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The mother’s uterine immune system is dominated by uterine natural killer (NK) cells during the first trimester of pregnancy. These cells express killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) of inhibitory or activating function. Invading extravillous trophoblast cells express HLA-C molecules, and both maternal and paternal HLA-C allotypes are presented to KIRs. Endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidase 1 (ERAP1) and 2 (ERAP2) shape the HLA class I immunopeptidome. The ERAPs remove N-terminal residues from antigenic precursor peptides and generate optimal-length peptides to fit into the HLA class I groove. The inability to form the correct HLA class I complexes with the appropriate peptides may result in a lack of immune response by NK cells. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of ERAP1 and ERAP2 polymorphisms in the context of KIR and HLA-C genes in recurrent implantation failure (RIF). In addition, for the first time, we showed the results of ERAP1 and ERAP2 secretion into the peripheral blood of patients and fertile women. We tested a total of 881 women. Four hundred ninety-six females were patients who, together with their partners, participated in in vitro fertilization (IVF). A group of 385 fertile women constituted the control group. Women positive for KIR genes in the Tel AA region and HLA-C2C2 were more prevalent in the RIF group than in fertile women (p/pcorr. = 0.004/0.012, OR = 2.321). Of the ERAP polymorphisms studied, two of them (rs26653 and rs26618) appear to affect RIF susceptibility in HLA-C2-positive patients. Moreover, fertile women who gave birth in the past secreted significantly more ERAP1 than IVF women and control pregnant women (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0005, respectively). In the case of ERAP2, the opposite result was observed; i.e., fertile women secreted far less ERAP2 than IVF patients (p = 0.0098). Patients who became pregnant after in vitro fertilization embryo transfer (IVF-ET) released far less ERAP2 than patients who miscarried (p = 0.0032). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses indicate a value of about 2.9 ng/ml of ERAP2 as a point of differentiation between patients who miscarried and those who gave birth to a healthy child. Our study indicates that both ERAP1 and ERAP2 may be involved in processes related to reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Piekarska
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics and Tissue Immunology, Department of Clinical Immunology, Ludwik Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Paweł Radwan
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Gameta Hospital, Rzgów, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Tarnowska
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics and Tissue Immunology, Department of Clinical Immunology, Ludwik Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Andrzej Wiśniewski
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics and Tissue Immunology, Department of Clinical Immunology, Ludwik Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Michał Radwan
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Gameta Hospital, Rzgów, Poland.,Faculty of Health Sciences, The Mazovian State University in Płock, Płock, Poland
| | - Jacek R Wilczyński
- Department of Surgical and Oncological Gynecology, Medical University of Łódź, Łódź, Poland
| | - Andrzej Malinowski
- Department of Surgical, Endoscopic and Oncologic Gynecology, Polish Mothers' Memorial Hospital-Research Institute, Łódź, Poland.,Medical Centre Gynemed, Łódź, Poland
| | - Izabela Nowak
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics and Tissue Immunology, Department of Clinical Immunology, Ludwik Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
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24
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Jafari-Gharabaghlou D, Vaghari-Tabari M, Oghbaei H, Lotz L, Zarezadeh R, Rastgar Rezaei Y, Ranjkesh M, Nouri M, Fattahi A, Nikanfar S, Dittrich R. Role of adipokines in embryo implantation. Endocr Connect 2021; 10:R267-R278. [PMID: 34559064 PMCID: PMC8558901 DOI: 10.1530/ec-21-0288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Embryo implantation is a complex process in which multiple molecules acting together under strict regulation. Studies showed the production of various adipokines and their receptors in the embryo and uterus, where they can influence the maternal-fetal transmission of metabolites and embryo implantation. Therefore, these cytokines have opened a novel area of study in the field of embryo-maternal crosstalk during early pregnancy. In this respect, the involvement of adipokines has been widely reported in the regulation of both physiological and pathological aspects of the implantation process. However, the information about the role of some recently identified adipokines is limited. This review aims to highlight the role of various adipokines in embryo-maternal interactions, endometrial receptivity, and embryo implantation, as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davoud Jafari-Gharabaghlou
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mostafa Vaghari-Tabari
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hajar Oghbaei
- Department of Physiology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Laura Lotz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen–Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Reza Zarezadeh
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Yeganeh Rastgar Rezaei
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahnaz Ranjkesh
- Medical Radiation Science Research Group (MRSRG), Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Fattahi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen–Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Correspondence should be addressed to A Fattahi or S Nikanfar: or
| | - Saba Nikanfar
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Correspondence should be addressed to A Fattahi or S Nikanfar: or
| | - Ralf Dittrich
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen–Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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25
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Labarta E, Sebastian-Leon P, Devesa-Peiro A, Celada P, Vidal C, Giles J, Rodriguez-Varela C, Bosch E, Diaz-Gimeno P. Analysis of serum and endometrial progesterone in determining endometrial receptivity. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:2861-2870. [PMID: 34382075 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is there a relationship between serum and endometrial progesterone (P4) levels, including P4 and metabolites (oestrone, oestradiol and 17α-hydroxyprogesterone), and endometrial receptivity? SUMMARY ANSWER Serum P4 levels were not correlated with endometrial P4, nor associated with endometrial receptivity as determined by the ERA® test; however, endometrial P4 and 17α-hydroxyprogesterone levels were positively correlated and related to endometrial receptivity by ERA. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Acquisition of endometrial receptivity is governed by P4, which induces secretory transformation. A close relationship between serum P4 and pregnancy outcome is reported for hormone replacement therapy (HRT) cycles. However, the relationship between serum and uterine P4 levels has not been described, and it is unknown whether uterine receptivity depends more on serum or uterine P4 levels. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A prospective cohort study was performed during March 2018-2019 in 85 IVF patients undergoing an evaluation-only HRT cycle with oestradiol valerate (6 mg/day) and micronised vaginal progesterone (400 mg/12 h). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Patients were under 50 years of age, had undergone at least one failed IVF cycle, had no uterine pathology, and had adequate endometrial thickness (> 6.5 mm). The study was conducted at IVI Valencia and IVI Foundation. An endometrial biopsy and a blood sample were collected after 5 days of P4 vaginal treatment. Measures included serum P4 levels, ERA®-based evaluation of endometrial receptivity, and endometrial P4 levels along with metabolites (oestrone, oestradiol and 17α-hydroxyprogesterone) measured by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Seventy-nine women were included (mean age: 39.9 ± 4.6, BMI: 24.2 ± 3.9 kg/m2, endometrial thickness: 8.2 ± 1.4 mm). The percentage of endometria indicated as receptive by ERA® was 40.5%. When comparing receptive versus non-receptive groups, no differences were observed in baseline characteristics nor in steroid hormones levels in serum or endometrium. No association between serum P4 and endometrial steroid levels or ERA result was found (P < 0.05). When the population was stratified according to metabolite concentration levels, endometrial P4 and 17α-hydroxyprogesterone were significantly associated with endometrial receptivity (P < 0.05). A higher proportion of receptive endometria by ERA was observed when endometrial P4 levels were higher than 40.07 µg/ml (relative maximum) and a lower proportion of receptive endometria was associated with endometrial 17α-hydroxyprogesterone lower than 0.35 ng/ml (first quartile). A positive correlation R2 = 0.67, P < 0.001 was observed between endometrial P4 and 17α-hydroxyprogesterone levels. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study did not analyse pregnancy outcomes. Further, the findings can only be extrapolated to HRT cycles with micronised vaginal progesterone for luteal phase support. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our findings suggest that the combined benefits of different routes of progesterone administration for luteal phase support could be leveraged to ensure an adequate concentration of progesterone both in the uterus and in the bloodstream. Further studies will confirm whether this method can optimise both endometrial receptivity and live birth rate. Additionally, targeted treatment to increase P4 endometrial levels may normalise the timing of the window of implantation without needing to modify the progesterone administration day. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This research was supported by the IVI-RMA Valencia (1706-VLC-051-EL) and Consellería d'Educació, Investigació, Cultura, i esport Generalitat Valenciana (Valencian Government, Spain, GV/2018//151). Almudena Devesa-Peiro (FPU/15/01398) and Cristina Rodriguez-Varela (FPU18/01657) were supported by the FPU program fellowship from the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities (Spanish Government). P.D.-G. is co-inventor on the ERA patent, with non-economic benefits. The other authors have no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03456375.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Labarta
- Reproductive Medicine, IVI RMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain.,IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - P Sebastian-Leon
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - A Devesa-Peiro
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain.,Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - P Celada
- Reproductive Medicine, IVI RMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - C Vidal
- Reproductive Medicine, IVI RMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain.,IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - J Giles
- Reproductive Medicine, IVI RMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain.,IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - C Rodriguez-Varela
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - E Bosch
- Reproductive Medicine, IVI RMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain.,IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - P Diaz-Gimeno
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
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26
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Ata B, Kalafat E, Somigliana E. A new definition of recurrent implantation failure on the basis of anticipated blastocyst aneuploidy rates across female age. Fertil Steril 2021; 116:1320-1327. [PMID: 34332750 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.06.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To present a definition of recurrent implantation failure that accounts for the effects of female age and anticipated blastocyst euploidy rates on cumulative implantation rates. DESIGN Mathematical modeling. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENT(S) Not applicable. INTERVENTION(S) Mathematical modeling of cumulative implantation probability on the basis of published blastocyst euploidy rates across categories of female age. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The number of blastocysts required to achieve 95% cumulative implantation probability under the assumption of the absence of any other factor affecting implantation. RESULT(S) When the euploidy status of the transferred embryo is unknown (i.e., not subjected to preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies), our simulation shows that no age category reaches 95% cumulative probability of implantation of at least one embryo until after transfer of seven blastocysts. The number of blastocysts required to reach the same threshold is higher for older patients. For example, women older than 38 years require transfer of more than 10 untested blastocysts for the upper range of predictive probability to meet the threshold of 95%. On the other hand, if the implantation rate for a euploid blastocyst is assumed to be 55%, then 4 blastocysts are enough to reach a cumulative probability rate greater than 95%, regardless of age. CONCLUSION(S) The term "recurrent implantation failure" should be a functional term guiding further management. We suggest that recurrent implantation failure should not be called until implantation failure becomes reasonably likely to be caused by factors other than embryo aneuploidy, the leading cause of implantation failure. We propose a new definition that factors in anticipated blastocyst euploidy rates across categories of female age, euploid blastocyst implantation rate, and a specified threshold of cumulative probability of implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baris Ata
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koc University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Erkan Kalafat
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koc University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey; Department of Statistics, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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27
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Rozen G, Rogers P, Teh WT, Stern CJ, Polyakov A. An algorithm to personalise the diagnosis of recurrent implantation failure based on theoretical cumulative implantation rate. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:1463-1468. [PMID: 33904909 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is an imprecisely defined disorder lacking a robust scientific basis. The incomplete understanding of RIF provides significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, and a better understanding of the underlying issues is necessary to improve outcomes. We propose a novel concept termed 'Theoretical Cumulative Implantation Rate', the calculation of which is based on objective data, to define whether a patient should be diagnosed with RIF. An updated definition to assist with patient counselling and planning research studies, which is more precise and standardised, is well overdue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genia Rozen
- Reproductive Services, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Melbourne IVF, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter Rogers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Wan Tinn Teh
- Reproductive Services, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Melbourne IVF, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Catharyn J Stern
- Reproductive Services, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Melbourne IVF, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Alex Polyakov
- Reproductive Services, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Melbourne IVF, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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28
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Ben Rafael Z. Endometrial Receptivity Analysis (ERA) test: an unproven technology. Hum Reprod Open 2021; 2021:hoab010. [PMID: 33880419 PMCID: PMC8045470 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoab010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
This article addresses the limitations of the endometrial receptivity array (ERA) methodology to increase implantation. Such limitations vary from the assumed inconsistency of the endometrial biopsy, the variable number of genes found to be dysregulated in endometrium samples without the embryonal-induced effect, the failure to account for the simultaneous serum progesterone level, and the expected low percentage of patients who may need this add-on procedure, to the difficulties in synchronising the endometrium with hormone replacements in successive cycles and the inherent perinatal risks associated with routine cryopreservation of embryos. Without a gold standard to compare, the claim that the window of implantation (WOI) might be off by ±12 h only requires a good argument for the advantage it provides to human procreation, knowing that embryos can linger for days before actual embedding starts and that the window is actually a few days. The intra-patient variations in the test need to be addressed. In summary, like all other add-ons, it is doubtful whether the ERA test use can significantly enhance implantation success rates.
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29
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Devesa-Peiro A, Sebastian-Leon P, Pellicer A, Diaz-Gimeno P. Guidelines for biomarker discovery in endometrium: correcting for menstrual cycle bias reveals new genes associated with uterine disorders. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:gaab011. [PMID: 33576824 PMCID: PMC8063681 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaab011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcriptomic approaches are increasingly used in reproductive medicine to identify candidate endometrial biomarkers. However, it is known that endometrial progression in the molecular biology of the menstrual cycle is a main factor that could affect the discovery of disorder-related genes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to systematically review current practices for considering the menstrual cycle effect and to demonstrate its bias in the identification of potential biomarkers. From the 35 studies meeting the criteria, 31.43% did not register the menstrual cycle phase. We analysed the menstrual cycle effect in 11 papers (including 12 studies) from Gene Expression Omnibus: three evaluating endometriosis, two evaluating recurrent implantation failure, one evaluating recurrent pregnancy loss, one evaluating uterine fibroids and five control studies, which collected endometrial samples throughout menstrual cycle. An average of 44.2% more genes were identified after removing menstrual cycle bias using linear models. This effect was observed even if studies were balanced in the proportion of samples collected at different endometrial stages or only in the mid-secretory phase. Our bias correction method increased the statistical power by retrieving more candidate genes than per-phase independent analyses. Thanks to this practice, we discovered 544 novel candidate genes for eutopic endometriosis, 158 genes for ectopic ovarian endometriosis and 27 genes for recurrent implantation failure. In conclusion, we demonstrate that menstrual cycle progression masks molecular biomarkers, provides new guidelines to unmask them and proposes a new classification that distinguishes between biomarkers of disorder or/and menstrual cycle progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Almudena Devesa-Peiro
- Department of Genomic & Systems Reproductive Medicine, IVI-RMA IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain—Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia 46026, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia 46010, Spain
| | - Patricia Sebastian-Leon
- Department of Genomic & Systems Reproductive Medicine, IVI-RMA IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain—Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia 46026, Spain
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- Department of Genomic & Systems Reproductive Medicine, IVI-RMA IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain—Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia 46026, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia 46010, Spain
- IVI-RMA IVI Rome, Reproductive medicine clinic, Largo Ildebrando Pizzetti, 1, Rome 00197, Italy
| | - Patricia Diaz-Gimeno
- Department of Genomic & Systems Reproductive Medicine, IVI-RMA IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain—Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia 46026, Spain
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Amini P, Ramezanali F, Parchehbaf-Kashani M, Maroufizadeh S, Omani-Samani R, Ghaheri A. Factors Associated with In Vitro Fertilization Live Birth Outcome: A Comparison of Different Classification Methods. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2021; 15:128-134. [PMID: 33687166 PMCID: PMC8052806 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2020.134582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Background In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a useful assisted reproductive technology to achieve pregnancy in infertile couples. However, it is very important to optimize the success rate after IVF by controlling for its influencing factors. This study aims to classify successful deliveries after IVF according to couples' characteristics and available data on oocytes, sperm, and embryos using several classification methods. Materials and Methods This historical cohort study was conducted in a referral infertility centre located in Tehran, Iran. The patients' demographic and clinical variables for 6071 cycles during March 21, 2011 to March 20, 2014 were collected. We used six different machine learning approaches including support vector machine (SVM), extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), logistic regression (LR), random forest (RF), naïve Bayes (NB), and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) to predict successful delivery. The results of the performed methods were compared using accuracy tools. Results The rate of successful delivery was 81.2% among 4930 cycles. The total accuracy of the results exposed RF had the best performance among the six approaches (ACC=0.81). Regarding the importance of variables, total number of embryos, number of injected oocytes, cause of infertility, female age, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) were the most important factors predicting successful delivery. Conclusion A successful delivery following IVF in infertile individuals is considerably affected by the number of embryos, number of injected oocytes, cause of infertility, female age, and PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Payam Amini
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Fariba Ramezanali
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Centre, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Saman Maroufizadeh
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Reza Omani-Samani
- Department of Medical Ethics and Law, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Centre, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azadeh Ghaheri
- Reproductive Epidemiology Research Centre, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
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Coelho Neto MA, Ludwin A, Petraglia F, Martins WP. Definition, prevalence, clinical relevance and treatment of T-shaped uterus: systematic review. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2021; 57:366-377. [PMID: 32898287 DOI: 10.1002/uog.23108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To summarize in a systematic review the current evidence regarding definitions, diagnosis, prevalence, etiology, clinical relevance and impact of surgical treatment for T-shaped uterus not related to diethylstilbestrol (DES) exposure, and to highlight areas on which future research should focus. METHODS A search of PubMed, Scopus and EMBASE was performed on 9 April 2020 using the search terms 't-shaped OR t-shape OR infantile OR (lateral indentation) OR (diethylstilbestrol OR DES) AND (uterus OR uterine OR uteri) AND (anomaly OR anomalies OR malformation OR malformations)'. Additionally, the reference lists of the included studies were searched manually for other relevant publications. All studies presenting data on T-shaped uterus not associated with DES exposure and including at least 10 women were considered eligible. Studies regarding DES-related T-shaped uterus were excluded because DES has not been used since 1971. There were no restrictions on language, date of publication or status of publication. RESULTS Of 2504 records identified by the electronic search, 20 studies were included in the systematic review. The majority of studies were of poor quality. In 11 of 16 studies reporting on the diagnosis of T-shaped uterus, the diagnostic method used was three-dimensional ultrasound. There is no consensus on the definition of T-shaped uterus, but the most cited criteria (4/16 studies) were of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology and the European Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (ESHRE/ESGE; 2013). The prevalence of T-shaped uterus varied from 0.2% to 10% in the four included studies reporting such data. With respect to etiology (except for DES), T-shaped uterus was considered a primary condition in three studies and secondary to adhesions in five and adenomyosis in one. T-shaped uterus was related to worse reproductive outcome based on subfertility (nine studies), miscarriage (seven studies), preterm delivery (two studies), ectopic pregnancy (one study) and repeat implantation failure (seven studies). Of the 12 studies that reported on the effects of surgical treatment of T-shaped uterus by hysteroscopic metroplasty, some mentioned an improvement in pregnancy rate (rates ranging from 49.6% to 88%; eight studies), live-birth rate (rates ranging from 35.1% to 76%; seven studies) and term-delivery rate (four studies) and a reduction in miscarriage (rates ranging from 7% to 49.6%; five studies) and ectopic pregnancy (one study). However, the evidence is of very low quality with serious/critical risk of bias toward overestimating the intervention effect. Some authors reported no complications related to the procedure, while others mentioned persistence of the dysmorphism (rates ranging from 1.4% to 11%; three studies), bleeding (1.3%; one study), infection (2.6%; one study) and adhesions (11.1% and 16.8%; two studies). CONCLUSIONS The prevalence, etiology and clinical relevance, with respect to reproductive outcome, of T-shaped uterus remain unclear and there is no consensus on the definition and diagnostic method for this condition. Expectant management should be considered the most appropriate choice for everyday practice until randomized controlled trials show a benefit of intervention. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Coelho Neto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (DGO-FRMP-USP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
- SEMEAR Fertilidade, Reproductive Medicine, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - A Ludwin
- Department of Gynecology and Oncology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
- Ludwin & Ludwin Gynecology, Private Medical Center, Krakow, Poland
| | - F Petraglia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - W P Martins
- SEMEAR Fertilidade, Reproductive Medicine, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
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Santiago KY, Porchia LM, López-Bayghen E. Endometrial preparation with etanercept increased embryo implantation and live birth rates in women suffering from recurrent implantation failure during IVF. Reprod Biol 2021; 21:100480. [PMID: 33476990 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2021.100480] [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: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failure (RIF), defined as ≥3 failed in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles with the accumulated transfer of at least five embryos, plague many infertile women. The exact cause is unknown; however, evidence supports the immune system, specifically the Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) pathway. Etanercept (a TNFα antagonist) has been shown to improve pregnancy rates in women with rheumatoid arthritis or endometriomas; therefore, this study aimed to determine the effectiveness of etanercept for IVF in RIF women. Eighty-three RIF women were recruited from the Ingenes Institute in Mexico City for this single-arm, prospective study. All patients underwent a similar IVF protocol and received etanercept (4 × 25 mg every 72 h) after endometrial preparation, if applicable, and at embryo transfer. IVF endpoints assessed were embryo implantation (h-βCG >10 mg/dL at Day 14), the presence of a gestational sac, live birth, and birth weight. All women reported no side-effects associated with the etanercept treatment. 75.9 % of the cohort achieved embryo implantation, 74.7 % developed gestational sacs, and the ongoing pregnancy/live birth rate was at 62.7 %. However, 56.7 % of the live births were preterm (<37 weeks) and 60.5 % of the births were underweight (<2500 g). When stratified by fresh or frozen cycles or by the ova source (patient versus donor), the results were not significantly different with respect to the implantation rate, formation of gestational sacs, and the live birth rate. Here, we showed that using etanercept during endometrial preparation improves IVF outcomes in RIF women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karla Y Santiago
- Clinical Research, Instituto de Infertilidad y Genética México SC, Ingenes, México City, México
| | - Leonardo M Porchia
- Clinical Research, Instituto de Infertilidad y Genética México SC, Ingenes, México City, México
| | - Esther López-Bayghen
- Departamento de Toxicología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV-IPN), México City, México.
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Efficacy of therapies and interventions for repeated embryo implantation failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:1747. [PMID: 33462292 PMCID: PMC7814130 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-81439-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the effect of the different therapeutic options for repeated embryo implantation failure (RIF) on a subsequent IVF cycle outcome. Twenty-two RCTs and nineteen observational studies were included. Pooling of results showed a beneficial effect of intrauterine PBMC infusion on both CPR (RR 2.18; 95% CI 1.58-3.00; p < 0.00001; OR 2.03; 95% CI 1.22-3.36; p = 0.006) and LBR (RR 2.41; 95% CI 1.40-4.16; p = 0.002; OR 3.73; 95% CI 1.13-12.29; p = 0.03), of subcutaneous G-CSF administration on CPR (RR 2.29; 95% CI 1.58-3.31; p < 0.0001) and of intrauterine PRP infusion on CPR (RR 2.45; 95% CI 1.55-3.86; p = 0.0001). Observational studies also demonstrated a positive effect of IVIG and intrauterine hCG infusion on both CPR and LBR and of atosiban on CPR. Studies investigating intrauterine G-CSF infusion, LMWH, intravenous intralipid, hysteroscopy, blastocyst-stage ET, ZIFT, PGT-A and AH failed to observe an impact on IVF outcome. The quality of the evidence that emerged from RCTs focused on intrauterine PBMC infusion and subcutaneous G-CSF administration was moderate. For all other therapies/interventions it varied from low to very low. In conclusion, intrauterine PBMC infusion and subcutaneous G-CSF administration are the most promising therapeutic options for RIF. However, further well conducted RCTs are necessary before their introduction into clinical practice.
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Sun Y, Zhang Y, Ma X, Jia W, Su Y. Determining Diagnostic Criteria of Unexplained Recurrent Implantation Failure: A Retrospective Study of Two vs Three or More Implantation Failure. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:619437. [PMID: 34367060 PMCID: PMC8339466 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.619437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The definition of recurrent implantation failure (RIF) differs clinically, one of the most controversial diagnostic criteria is the number of failed treatment cycles. We tried to investigate whether the two implantation failure could be included in the diagnostic criteria of RIF. METHODS A retrospective analysis of the clinical data of patients (N=1518) aged under 40 years with two or more implantation failure, recruited from the Center for Reproductive Medicine of the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from January 2016 to June 2019. RESULTS After adjusting for confounding factors by using binary logistic regression, the results showed that partial general information and: distribution of associated factors were significant differences such as maternal age (aOR=1.054, P=0.001), type of cycle (aOR=2.040, P<0.001), stage of embryos development (aOR=0.287, P<0.001), number of embryos transferred (aOR=0.184, P<0.001), female factor (tubal pathology) (aOR=0.432, P=0.031) and male factor (aOR=1.734, P=0.002) between the groups with two and three or more unexplained implantation failure. And further explored whether these differential factors had a significant negative impact on pregnancy outcome, the results showed that: for patients who had three unexplained implantation failure, in the fourth cycle of ET, the live birth rate decreased significantly with age (aOR=0.921, P<0.001), and the live birth rate of blastocyst transfer was significantly higher than that of cleavage embryo transfer (aOR=1.826, P=0.007). At their first assisted pregnancy treatment after the diagnosis of RIF according to these two different definitions, there were no significant difference in the biochemical pregnancy rate, clinical pregnancy rate, ectopic pregnancy rate and abortion rate (P>0.05), but the live birth rate (35.64% vs 42.95%, P=0.004) was significantly different. According to the definition of 'two or more failed treatment cycles', the live birth rate of the first ET treatment after RIF diagnosis was significantly lower than that of patients according to the definition of 'three or more failed treatment cycles'. CONCLUSION For patients with unexplained recurrent implantation failure, two implantation failure cannot be included in the diagnostic criteria of RIF. This study supports the generally accepted definition of three or more failed treatment cycles for RIF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yile Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xueshan Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Weitong Jia
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yingchun Su
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Yingchun Su,
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Bahrami-Asl Z, Hajipour H, Rastgar Rezaei Y, Novinbahador T, Latifi Z, Nejabati HR, Farzadi L, Fattahi A, Nouri M, Dominguez F. Cytokines in embryonic secretome as potential markers for embryo selection. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 85:e13385. [PMID: 33300214 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13385] [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: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite performing certain morphological assessments for selecting the best embryo for transfer, the results have not been satisfactory. Given the global tendency for performing quick and noninvasive tests for embryo selection, great efforts have been made to discover the predictive biomarkers of embryo implantation potential. In recent years, many factors have been detected in embryo culture media as a major source of embryo secretions. Previous studies have evaluated cytokines, miRNAs, extracellular vesicles, and other factors such as leukemia inhibitory factor, colony-stimulating factor, reactive oxygen species, soluble human leukocyte antigen G, amino acids, and apolipoproteins in these media. Given the key role of cytokines in embryo implantation, these factors can be considered promising molecules for predicting the implantation success of assisted reproductive technology (ART). The present study was conducted to review embryo-secreted molecules as potential biomarkers for embryo selection in ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Bahrami-Asl
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Hajipour
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Yeganeh Rastgar Rezaei
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Tannaz Novinbahador
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zeinab Latifi
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Nejabati
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Laya Farzadi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Fattahi
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Francisco Dominguez
- Fundacion Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto Universitario IVI (IUIVI), ISS LaFe, Valencia, Spain
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Sadeghpour S, Ghasemnejad Berenji M, Nazarian H, Ghasemnejad T, Nematollahi MH, Abroon S, Paktinat S, Heidari Khoei H, Ghasemnejad Berenji H, Ghaffari Novin M. Effects of treatment with hydroxychloroquine on the modulation of Th17/Treg ratio and pregnancy outcomes in women with recurrent implantation failure: clinical trial. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2020; 42:632-642. [PMID: 33081532 DOI: 10.1080/08923973.2020.1835951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
AIM The imbalance of Th17/Treg cells has been recently suggested as a new risk factors for recurrent implantation failure (RIF). Furthermore Th17/Treg cells are involved in immune regulation in peripheral blood and endometrial tissue of patients with RIF. In this research, we investigated the effects of Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) on the level and function of Th17 and Treg cells in women with RIF. It may be possible to improve pregnancy outcomes by modulating high cytokine levels. METHODS Women with RIF received oral HCQ (n = 60) on day 4 of the menstrual cycle and continued until day 20 of the menstrual cycle and 2 days before embryo transfer and continued until the day of the pregnancy test, for a total of 16 days in another cycle. The serum levels of IL-17 and IL-10, the expression of transcription factors related to Th17 and Treg cells and the immune-reactivity of IL-17, IL-21 as Th17 related cytokines and IL-10, TGF- β as Treg related cytokines in endometrial tissues were evaluated by ELISA, real-time PCR, and fluorescent immunohistochemistry respectively. Results: Treatment with HCQ down-regulated Th17 related cytokines and function and up-regulated Treg related cytokines and function significantly (p < .001). RORγt, the Th17 transcription factor, expression was down-regulated and FOXP-3, the T-reg transcription factor, expression was up-regulated. The biochemical pregnancy rate was not significantly different in RIF patients before and after treatment. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrated that the administration of HCQ in RIF women with immune cell disorders during pregnancy could affect the Th17/Treg ratio and enhance Treg and diminish Th17 responses which may be associated with successful pregnancy outcomes. However, significant difference in pregnancy outcomes was not observed in the present study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Sadeghpour
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Morteza Ghasemnejad Berenji
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Hamid Nazarian
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tohid Ghasemnejad
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hadi Nematollahi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Sina Abroon
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Shahrokh Paktinat
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Heidar Heidari Khoei
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hojjat Ghasemnejad Berenji
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marefat Ghaffari Novin
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Miron-Shatz T, Holzer H, Revel A, Weissman A, Tarashandegan D, Hurwitz A, Gal M, Ben-Chetrit A, Weintraub A, Ravhon A, Tsafrir A. 'Luckily, I don't believe in statistics': survey of women's understanding of chance of success with futile fertility treatments. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 42:463-470. [PMID: 33250411 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.09.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Why are women who face poor prognoses for success in assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment choosing to pursue procedures using their own eggs, despite receiving information that their chances of success are very low. DESIGN Cross-sectional study based on an anonymous questionnaire distributed to women aged between 43 and 45 years, undergoing ART using their own oocytes, at six public outpatient fertility clinics and three public in-hospital IVF units in Israel between 2015 and 2016. The main outcome measure was personal estimation of chance to achieve a live birth after the current ART treatment cycle and the cumulative estimated rate after all the treatment cycles the patient intended to undergo. RESULTS Response rate was 70.0%, with 91 participants of mean age 43.8 ± 0.7 years. Participants estimated their delivery rates after the next ART treatment cycle at 49.0 ± 31.8% (response rate 93.4%) and their cumulative delivery rates after all the ART treatments they would undergo at 57.7 ± 36.3% (response rate 90.1%). This is significantly higher than the predicted success rates of 5% and 15%, respectively (both P < 0.001), which are based on national register data. Nearly one-half of patients rated themselves as having a better than average chance of conception (47.3%). CONCLUSION Women do not pursue futile treatments because they lack information. Despite being informed of the low success rates of conception using ART treatments, many patients of advanced maternal age have unrealistically high expectations from ART, essentially ignoring their estimated prognosis when deciding on treatment continuation. Future work should examine the psychological reasons behind continuing futile fertility treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talya Miron-Shatz
- Ono Academic College, Center for Medical Decision Making, Tzahal St 104, Kiryat Ono, Israel; Winton Centre for Risk and Evidence Communication, Wilberforce Road, Cambridge CB3 0WA, UK
| | - Hananel Holzer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Medical Center Ein Kerem POB 12000 Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ariel Revel
- Reproductive Medicine and In Vitro fertilization Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yitzhak Shamir Medical Center (formerly Assaf Harofeh Medical Center), affiliated to the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel, Zerifin, Israel
| | - Ariel Weissman
- IVF Unit- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Ha-Lokhamim St 62, Holon, 5822012, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Danit Tarashandegan
- Ono Academic College, Center for Medical Decision Making, Tzahal St 104, Kiryat Ono, Israel
| | - Arye Hurwitz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Medical Center Ein Kerem POB 12000 Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Michael Gal
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, IVF unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Shmu'el Bait St 12 Jerusalem 9103102, Israel
| | - Avraham Ben-Chetrit
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, IVF unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Shmu'el Bait St 12 Jerusalem 9103102, Israel
| | - Amir Weintraub
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, IVF unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Shmu'el Bait St 12 Jerusalem 9103102, Israel
| | - Amir Ravhon
- IVF Unit- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Ha-Lokhamim St 62, Holon, 5822012, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Avi Tsafrir
- Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, IVF unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Shmu'el Bait St 12 Jerusalem 9103102, Israel.
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Tan X, Ding J, Pu D, Wu J. Anti-phospholipid antibody may reduce endometrial receptivity during the window of embryo implantation. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2020; 50:101912. [PMID: 32950746 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2020.101912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anti-phospholipid antibodies (aPL) have been reported to be associated with repeated implantation failure (RIF), but the mechanism remains controversial. Endometrial receptivity is well known to be crucial for embryo implantation. This study aims to investigate the effect of aPL on endometrial receptivity in RIF women with positive aPL. METHODS Sixty-four infertile women with normal menstrual cycles were enrolled. The control group comprised 32 pregnant women with negative aPL who conceived successfully after their first in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) cycle, and the RIF group comprised 32 women with positive aPL. Endometrial biopsy samples were collected seven days after the luteinizing hormone surge (LH + 7). The expression of LIF and HOXA10 was evaluated by immunohistochemistry, qRT-PCR and Western blot. Endometrial pinopode development was examined by scanning electron microscopy. RESULTS The mRNA expression of LIF and HOXA10 in the RIF group was significantly decreased compared with that in the control group during the implantation window. The immunohistochemistry and Western blot results confirmed these findings. Then, ultrastructural analyses of endometrial cells showed fewer pinopode processes, a more atypical morphology and increased atrophy in the RIF group compared with the control group, and these results were statistically significant. CONCLUSION aPL positivity may inhibit the expression of LIF and HOXA10 in the endometrium and influence pinopode development. Our findings suggest that positivity for aPL is associated with impaired endometrial receptivity, which results in the development of RIF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofang Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University/Jiangsu Province Hospital/Jiangsu Women and Children Health Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China; Affiliated Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226006, China
| | - Jiayi Ding
- Affiliated Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226006, China
| | - Danhua Pu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University/Jiangsu Province Hospital/Jiangsu Women and Children Health Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China.
| | - Jie Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University/Jiangsu Province Hospital/Jiangsu Women and Children Health Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China.
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39
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Tehraninejad ES, Kashani NG, Hosseini A, Tarafdari A. Autologous platelet-rich plasma infusion does not improve pregnancy outcomes in frozen embryo transfer cycles in women with history of repeated implantation failure without thin endometrium. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2020; 47:147-151. [PMID: 32840031 DOI: 10.1111/jog.14445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
AIM The effect of intrauterine infusion of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) which has been shown to improve the pregnancy outcomes in patients suffering from repeated implantation failure (RIF), is intended to be studied in patients with normal endometrial thickness. METHODS We recruited 85 patients with RIF and normal endometrial thickness (≥7 mm). After obtaining their consent, they were stratified into the intervention (PRP) and control groups, according to the patient's decision. Out of 85 participants, 42 received PRP, while 43 were included in the control group. In the PRP group, 1 mL of PRP was extracted from 10 cc of whole blood via two rounds of centrifugation and infused 2 days before the embryo transfer (ET). RESULTS The pregnancy outcomes, including biochemical, clinical and ongoing pregnancy (≥20 weeks of gestation) rates were similar between the PRP (35.7, 31.0 and 26.8%, respectively) and control (37.2, 37.2 and 25.6%, respectively) groups. CONCLUSION We concluded that PRP is not an effective adjuvant treatment for in vitro fertilization of patients with RIF and normal endometrial thickness undergoing ET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ensieh S Tehraninejad
- Vali-Asr Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Norieh G Kashani
- Vali-Asr Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Hosseini
- Vali-Asr Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azam Tarafdari
- Vali-Asr Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Bahrami-Asl Z, Farzadi L, Fattahi A, Yousefi M, Quinonero A, Hakimi P, Latifi Z, Nejabati HR, Ghasemnejad T, Sadigh AR, Heidari MH, Nouri M, Novin MG, Dominguez F. Tacrolimus Improves the Implantation Rate in Patients with Elevated Th1/2 Helper Cell Ratio and Repeated Implantation Failure (RIF). Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2020; 80:851-862. [PMID: 32817992 PMCID: PMC7428373 DOI: 10.1055/a-1056-3148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction
An abnormal endometrial immune response is involved in the pathogenesis of repeated implantation failure (RIF), so we investigated the effectiveness of tacrolimus treatment on the endometrium of RIF patients.
Materials and Methods
Ten RIF patients with elevated T-helper 1/T-helper 2 (Th1/Th2) cell ratios were recruited into a clinical study. The expression of p53, leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), interleukin (IL)-4, IL-10, IL-17, and interferon gamma (IFN-γ) in the endometrium of patients with and without tacrolimus treatment and the association of these factors with assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes were investigated.
Results
Tacrolimus significantly increased the expression of LIF, IL-10, and IL-17 and decreased the expression of IL-4, IFN-γ, and the IFN-γ/IL-10 ratio in RIF patients. Tacrolimus treatment resulted in an implantation rate of 40%, a clinical pregnancy rate of 50%, and a live birth rate of 35% in RIF patients with elevated Th1/Th2 ratios who had previously failed to become pregnant despite at least three transfers of embryos. We also found a significant positive correlation between IL-10 levels and the implantation rate.
Conclusions
Our findings suggest that RIF patients with a higher Th1/Th2 ratio could be candidates for tacrolimus therapy and that this immunosuppressive drug could be acting through upregulation of LIF, IL-10, and IL-17.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Bahrami-Asl
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Fundacion Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto Universitario IVI (IUIVI), ISS LaFe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Laya Farzadi
- Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Fattahi
- Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Yousefi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Alicia Quinonero
- Fundacion Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto Universitario IVI (IUIVI), ISS LaFe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Parvin Hakimi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zeinab Latifi
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Nejabati
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Tohid Ghasemnejad
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Aydin Raei Sadigh
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hassan Heidari
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Marefat Ghaffari Novin
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Francisco Dominguez
- Fundacion Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI), Instituto Universitario IVI (IUIVI), ISS LaFe, Valencia, Spain
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Preimplantation Genetic Testing: Where We Are Today. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21124381. [PMID: 32575575 PMCID: PMC7352684 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is widely used today in in-vitro fertilization (IVF) centers over the world for selecting euploid embryos for transfer and to improve clinical outcomes in terms of embryo implantation, clinical pregnancy, and live birth rates. Methods: We report the current knowledge concerning these procedures and the results from different clinical indications in which PGT is commonly applied. Results: This paper illustrates different molecular techniques used for this purpose and the clinical significance of the different oocyte and embryo stage (polar bodies, cleavage embryo, and blastocyst) at which it is possible to perform sampling biopsies for PGT. Finally, genetic origin and clinical significance of embryo mosaicism are illustrated. Conclusions: The preimplantation genetic testing is a valid technique to evaluated embryo euploidy and mosaicism before transfer.
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Chen J, Zhao X, Ao L, Yin T, Yang J. Transcriptomic changes and potential regulatory mechanism of intrauterine human chorionic gonadotropin co-cultured with peripheral blood mononuclear cells infusion in mice with embryonic implantation dysfunction. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2020; 8:99. [PMID: 32175392 DOI: 10.21037/atm.2019.12.109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Background This study aimed to explore whether intrauterine infusion of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) could induce favorable transcriptomic changes in the endometrium for embryo implantation and the potential mechanism. Methods Twenty-one mice were randomly divided to five groups, including a normal pregnancy (NP) group, an embryo implantation dysfunction (EID) group, an EID with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) group, an EID with PBMCs group, and an EID with hCG co-cultured with PBMCs group. The endometrium in the implantation window from mice were collected and determined by RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq), and the expression of significantly different genes with high degree of coincidence was recommended and validated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Results There were totally 1,366 up-regulated and 1,374 down-regulated genes in the EID mice compared with the normal pregnant mice. We selected (fold change ≥2, P<0.05) and verified the candidate genes associated with embryo implantation, immune response and other reproductive processes in previous reports by qRT-PCR. Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), solute carrier family 15 member 2 (SLC15A2), retinoic acid receptor responder 1 (RARRES1), vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM1) were down-regulated and musculin (MSC), chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 14 (CXCL14) were up-regulated significantly in EID group (P<0.05), and the synergistic effects of hCG were seen. In addition, the expression of glucocorticoid receptor (GR)-β in PBMCs of NP mice was higher than that of EID mice, and up-regulated GR-β in EID mice could significantly increase the expression of LIF, SLC15A2, RARRES1 and VCAM1, and decrease the expression of CXCL14 and MSC, which indicated GR-β might be a transcriptional factor of the six genes above. Conclusions Intrauterine PBMCs perfusion might improve the performance of impaired endometrial receptivity by regulating LIF, SLC15A2, RARRES1, VCAM1, MSC as well as CXCL14, and hCG could enhance the effect of PBMCs. In addition, GR-β, as a transcriptional factor, could regulate the six genes in PBMCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Chen
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Assisted Reproductive and Embryonic Development, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Xuehan Zhao
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Assisted Reproductive and Embryonic Development, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Liangfei Ao
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Assisted Reproductive and Embryonic Development, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Tailang Yin
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Assisted Reproductive and Embryonic Development, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China.,Hubei Clinical Research Center for Assisted Reproductive and Embryonic Development, Wuhan 430060, China
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Nowak I, Wilczyńska K, Radwan P, Wiśniewski A, Krasiński R, Radwan M, Wilczyński JR, Malinowski A, Kuśnierczyk P. Association of Soluble HLA-G Plasma Level and HLA-G Genetic Polymorphism With Pregnancy Outcome of Patients Undergoing in vitro Fertilization Embryo Transfer. Front Immunol 2020; 10:2982. [PMID: 31993049 PMCID: PMC6971053 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Infertility is currently a growing problem observed around the world and is estimated to affect between 8 and 12% of reproductive-aged couples worldwide. Artificial reproductive techniques are the last chance for couples seeking their own child. Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G expression has been suggested as an immunomodulatory molecule that influences pregnancy outcome. The HLA-G gene encodes either membrane-bound or/and soluble proteins. The aim of this study was the evaluation of the role of soluble HLA-G (sHLA-G) and its gene polymorphism in successful implantation after in vitro fertilization embryo transfers (IVF-ETs) in different clinical protocols. We tested the HLA-G polymorphism in three positions: rs1632947: c.-964G>A; rs1233334: c.-725G>C/T in promoter region; rs371194629: c.*65_*66insATTTGTTCATGCCT in 3′ untranslated region of exon 8, in 389 patients who underwent IVF-ETs and 320 women with healthy children born after natural conception. Among the patient group, 239 women were with recurrent implantation failure and 117 women had an ongoing pregnancy or a child born after IVF-ET. We found that certain rs1632947-rs1233334-rs371194629 HLA-G haplotypes and diplotypes were associated with infertility, while others were protective. The lowest secretors of sHLA-G were G-C-ins haplotype carriers (37.21 IU/ml), while the highest -G-C-del carriers (73.80 IU/ml). Other haplotype carriers were intermediate secretors. In our study, regardless of possessed haplotype by the patient, 59.73 IU/ml sHLA-G was the threshold value with the best sensitivity (58.82%) and specificity (66.10%) to discriminate patients who achieved and maintained pregnancy from those who did not conceive or they had miscarriage (p = 0.0085; likelihood ratio, 1.74; 95% CI = 0.55–0.78). However, we do not exclude that factors other than sHLA-G may also contribute to complications in pregnancy. In addition, we found that IVF patients in cycles when frozen/thawed embryo was transferred secreted higher soluble HLA-G levels than patients with fresh embryo transferred (p = 0.021). Moreover, correlation analysis of sHLA-G concentration measured before and after embryo transfer for particular patients indicated short ovarian stimulation with gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist as more beneficial than long protocol with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist. Our study confirms a role of HLA-G polymorphism in infertility and soluble HLA-G in the early stages of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izabela Nowak
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics and Tissue Immunology, Department of Clinical Immunology, Ludwik Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Karolina Wilczyńska
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics and Tissue Immunology, Department of Clinical Immunology, Ludwik Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Paweł Radwan
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Gameta Hospital, Rzgów, Poland.,Biogeno-Regional Science-Technology Centre, Podzamcze, Poland
| | - Andrzej Wiśniewski
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics and Tissue Immunology, Department of Clinical Immunology, Ludwik Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Rafał Krasiński
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Gameta Hospital, Rzgów, Poland
| | - Michał Radwan
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Gameta Hospital, Rzgów, Poland.,Faculty of Health Sciences, The State University of Applied Sciences in Płock, Płock, Poland
| | - Jacek R Wilczyński
- Department of Surgical and Oncological Gynecology, Medical University of Łódź, Łódź, Poland
| | - Andrzej Malinowski
- Department of Surgical, Endoscopic and Oncologic Gynecology, Polish Mothers' Memorial Hospital-Research Institute, Łódź, Poland
| | - Piotr Kuśnierczyk
- Laboratory of Immunogenetics and Tissue Immunology, Department of Clinical Immunology, Ludwik Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
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Busnelli A, Reschini M, Cardellicchio L, Vegetti W, Somigliana E, Vercellini P. How common is real repeated implantation failure? An indirect estimate of the prevalence. Reprod Biomed Online 2019; 40:91-97. [PMID: 31924493 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2019.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What is the real prevalence of repeated implantation failure (RIF) and what reliable estimates can be given on the risk of false-positive diagnosis after two or three failed IVF attempts. DESIGN A recent theoretical model suggested that commonly used definitions (two or three failed IVF attempts in good-prognosis couples) may expose couples to substantial odds of overdiagnosis and overtreatment. This model, however, was theoretical and based on unproven assumptions that the pregnancy rate in the non-RIF population was 30% and the prevalence of RIF was 10%. In the present study, we applied this model to real data to distinguish the real prevalence of RIF and to provide more reliable estimates on the risk of false-positive diagnosis after two or three failed IVF attempts. To this aim, we retrospectively selected 1221 good-prognosis couples and evaluated pregnancy rates up to the third cycle. RESULTS The clinical pregnancy rate at first, second and third IVF cycle was 52%, 41% and 28%, respectively. A pregnancy rate of 61% was extrapolated in the non-RIF population and 15% among women who had experienced RIF. Therefore, the rate of false-positive diagnoses of RIF after two, three and six failed cycles would be 46%, 25%, and 2%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Our analyses show that estimated prevalence of RIF is 15%. The frequently used definition of RIF based on three failed attempts (but not two) in good-prognosis couples seems justified. Physicians, however, should bear in mind that couples may be inappropriately labelled with this condition in one out of four cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Busnelli
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Festa del Perdono 7, 20122, Milan, Italy.
| | - Marco Reschini
- Obstetric amd Gynaecology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Della Commenda 12, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Lucia Cardellicchio
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Festa del Perdono 7, 20122, Milan, Italy; Obstetric amd Gynaecology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Della Commenda 12, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Walter Vegetti
- Obstetric amd Gynaecology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Della Commenda 12, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Festa del Perdono 7, 20122, Milan, Italy; Obstetric amd Gynaecology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Della Commenda 12, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Vercellini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Festa del Perdono 7, 20122, Milan, Italy; Obstetric amd Gynaecology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Della Commenda 12, 20122, Milan, Italy
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Dieamant F, Vagnini LD, Petersen CG, Mauri AL, Renzi A, Petersen B, Mattila MC, Nicoletti A, Oliveira JBA, Baruffi R, Franco Jr. JG. New therapeutic protocol for improvement of endometrial receptivity (PRIMER) for patients with recurrent implantation failure (RIF) - A pilot study. JBRA Assist Reprod 2019; 23:250-254. [PMID: 31091064 PMCID: PMC6724389 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20190035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether or not one should use a new Protocol for Endometrial Receptivity Improvement (PRIMER) based on platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and granulocyte colony-stimulation factor (G-CSF) to enhance ongoing pregnancy rates in patients with recurrent implantation failure (RIF). METHODS Women undergoing IVF/ICSI were prospectively divided into two groups: - PRIMER/RIF group (n:33): patients with RIF (defined as ≥2embryo transfers (ETs) and at least 5 morphologically good embryos transferred) in which intrauterine PRP injection and subcutaneous G-CSF-injection were performed. - Control group (n:33): patients in their first IVF/ICSI attempt/cycle (without PRP or G-CSF injection). The PRP was prepared using autologous fresh-whole blood processed to increase platelet-concentration in 2 to 4 fold. All patients undergoing the PRP-treatment received 0.7ml of it through intrauterine-injection 48 hours before the ET. G-CSF (300mg/0.5ml) started simultaneously to PRP and was administered subcutaneously every week. RESULTS Regarding implantation, clinical pregnancy and miscarriage rates, we found no statistically significant difference (18.2% versus 17.6%, p=0.90; 36.4% versus 30.3%, p=0.61 and 25.0% versus 9.0%, p=0.43, respectively). The use of PRIMER enabled RIF patients (previous ET µ: 4.0±1.5) to reach similar ongoing pregnancy and live birth rates like those patients who had their first IVF/ICSI cycle attempt (27.3% versus 27.3%, p=0.99). CONCLUSIONS Our results showed, for the first time, evidence that this therapeutic protocol (PRIMER) could be used as a feasible treatment based on biological rationale for patients with RIF, considering its promising outcomes, it is a simple procedure and not associated with patient complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Dieamant
- Center for Human Reproduction Prof Franco Jr. Ribeirão
Preto, Brazil
- Paulista Center for Diagnosis Research and Training.
Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Laura D. Vagnini
- Paulista Center for Diagnosis Research and Training.
Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Claudia G. Petersen
- Center for Human Reproduction Prof Franco Jr. Ribeirão
Preto, Brazil
- Paulista Center for Diagnosis Research and Training.
Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Ana L. Mauri
- Center for Human Reproduction Prof Franco Jr. Ribeirão
Preto, Brazil
- Paulista Center for Diagnosis Research and Training.
Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Adriana Renzi
- Paulista Center for Diagnosis Research and Training.
Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Bruna Petersen
- Center for Human Reproduction Prof Franco Jr. Ribeirão
Preto, Brazil
- Paulista Center for Diagnosis Research and Training.
Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | | | - Andreia Nicoletti
- Center for Human Reproduction Prof Franco Jr. Ribeirão
Preto, Brazil
- Paulista Center for Diagnosis Research and Training.
Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Joao Batista A. Oliveira
- Center for Human Reproduction Prof Franco Jr. Ribeirão
Preto, Brazil
- Paulista Center for Diagnosis Research and Training.
Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Baruffi
- Center for Human Reproduction Prof Franco Jr. Ribeirão
Preto, Brazil
- Paulista Center for Diagnosis Research and Training.
Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Jose G. Franco Jr.
- Center for Human Reproduction Prof Franco Jr. Ribeirão
Preto, Brazil
- Paulista Center for Diagnosis Research and Training.
Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
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Farquhar CM, Bhattacharya S, Repping S, Mastenbroek S, Kamath MS, Marjoribanks J, Boivin J. Female subfertility. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2019; 5:7. [PMID: 30679436 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-018-0058-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Subfertility is common and affects one in six couples, half of whom lack an explanation for their delay in conceiving. Developments in the diagnosis and treatment of subfertility over the past 50 years have been truly remarkable. Indeed, current generations of couples with subfertility are more fortunate than previous generations, as they have many more opportunities to become parents. The timely access to effective treatment for subfertility is important as many couples have a narrow window of opportunity before the age-related effects of subfertility limit the likelihood of success. Assisted reproduction can overcome the barriers to fertility caused by tubal disease and low sperm count, but little progress has been made in reducing the effect of increasing age on ovarian function. The next 5-10 years will likely see further increases in birth rates in women with subfertility, a greater awareness of lifestyle factors and a possible refinement of current assisted reproduction techniques and the development of new ones. Such progress will bring challenging questions regarding the potential benefits and harms of treatments involving germ cell manipulation, artificial gametes, genetic screening of embryos and gene editing of embryos. We hope to see a major increase in fertility awareness, access to safe and cost-effective fertility care in low-income countries and a reduction in the current disparity of access to fertility care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia M Farquhar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Siladitya Bhattacharya
- College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
| | - Sjoerd Repping
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development research institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sebastiaan Mastenbroek
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development research institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Mohan S Kamath
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - Jane Marjoribanks
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jacky Boivin
- School of Psychology, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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