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Xiong Y, Si Y, Quan R, Huo X, Chen J, Xu J, Jiang Z, Xu F, Liu R, Fu Q. hUMSCs restore ovarian function in POI mice by regulating GSK3β-mediated mitochondrial dynamic imbalances in theca cells. Sci Rep 2024; 14:19008. [PMID: 39152165 PMCID: PMC11329706 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-69381-9] [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: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), a major cause of female infertility, is defined as follicular atresia and a rapid loss of germ cells in women of reproductive age due to ovarian failure. Recently, findings from several studies have indicated that human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUMSCs) can alleviate ovarian dysfunction resulting from POI. However, the mechanisms underlying this effect require further clarification. In this study, a mouse model of POI was established as achieved with an intraperitoneal injection of cyclophosphamide (CTX) into female C57BL/6J mice in vivo. These POI mice received a 1-week intervention of hUMACs. In addition, an in vitro POI model was also included. The cultured supernatants of hUMSCs and glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3β) inhibitor (SB216763) were used to treat theca cells (TCs) exposed to CTX. Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining and Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to assess ovarian structure and morphology, as well as endocrine function in these POI mice. Based on results from the ELISA and JC-1 labeling, CTX exerted significant detrimental effects on testosterone levels and the mitochondrial membrane potential in TCs. Subsequently, Western Blot, Immunofluorescence staining (IF), and Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were used to evaluate various indicators of testosterone synthesis function and mitochondrial dynamics in ovaries and TCs of POI mice. In vivo, dysfunctions in ovarian structure and function in the POI mouse model were effectively restored following hUMSCs treatment, and abnormalities in hormone synthesis were significantly reduced. Furthermore, when the stem cell supernatants of hUMSCs were applied to TCs in vitro we found that GSK3β expression was reduced, the imbalance of mitochondrial dynamics was alleviated, and the ability of mitochondrial testosterone synthesis was increased. Taken together, our results indicate that hUMSCs treatment can restore the imbalance of mitochondrial dynamics and restart testosterone synthesis of TCs by suppressing GSK3β expression, ultimately alleviating POI damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanlian Xiong
- Xu Rongxiang Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China
- Department of Histology and Embryology, College of Basic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China
| | - Yaru Si
- Institute of Aging Medicine, College of Pharmacology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China
- Xu Rongxiang Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China
| | - Rengui Quan
- Department of Obstetrics, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China
| | - Xingyu Huo
- Xu Rongxiang Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China
- Department of Histology and Embryology, College of Basic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China
| | - Juntong Chen
- Xu Rongxiang Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China
- Department of Histology and Embryology, College of Basic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China
| | - Jinyu Xu
- Xu Rongxiang Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China
- Department of Histology and Embryology, College of Basic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China
| | - Zhonglin Jiang
- Xu Rongxiang Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China
- Department of Histology and Embryology, College of Basic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China
| | - Feibo Xu
- Xu Rongxiang Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China
- Department of Histology and Embryology, College of Basic Medicine, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China
| | - Ranran Liu
- Department of Medical Laboratory, Yantai Affiliated Hospital of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China.
| | - Qiang Fu
- Institute of Aging Medicine, College of Pharmacology, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, 264003, China.
- Shandong Cellogene Medicine Science and Technology Co., LTD, Yantai, 264003, China.
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Serdarogullari M, Raad G, Makieva S, Liperis G, Fraire-Zamora JJ, Celik-Ozenci C. Revitalizing female fertility: platelet-rich plasma - hype or hope? Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 49:103813. [PMID: 38852205 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2024.103813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has gained popularity as an experimental tool in regenerative medicine, with potential applications in reproductive medicine. This review will assess the existing literature on the role of PRP in female fertility enhancement, focusing on ovarian rejuvenation and increased endometrial thickness. PRP is being explored as a treatment for recurrent implantation failure, primary ovarian insufficiency and poor ovarian response. While the influence of PRP on endometrial thickness and implantation success is postulated, its effectiveness remains the subject of debate due to protocol variability and unclear patient selection criteria. This narrative review includes 36 articles published before December 2022, and highlights the lack of comprehensive molecular studies examining the impact of PRP on reproductive capacity. This review underscores the importance of standardizing PRP preparation protocols in reproductive medicine. However, challenges persist, and there is a need for well-planned randomized controlled trials and a deeper understanding of the patient population that would gain the greatest benefit from PRP treatment. Clarifying these aspects is crucial to improve outcomes for low-prognosis patients undergoing assisted reproductive technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munevver Serdarogullari
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Cyprus International University, Northern Cyprus via Mersin 10, Turkey
| | - Georges Raad
- Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, Jounieh, Lebanon; Al Hadi Laboratory and Medical Centre, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Sofia Makieva
- Kinderwunschzentrum, Klinik für Reproduktions-Endokrinologie, Universitätsspital Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Georgios Liperis
- Westmead Fertility Centre, Institute of Reproductive Medicine, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Ciler Celik-Ozenci
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey; Koç University Research Centre for Translational Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.
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Yang G, Zhang B, Xu M, Wu M, Lin J, Luo Z, Chen Y, Hu Q, Huang G, Hu H. Improving Granulosa Cell Function in Premature Ovarian Failure with Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Exosome-Derived hsa_circ_0002021. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2024; 21:897-914. [PMID: 38842768 PMCID: PMC11286897 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-024-00652-2] [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: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The therapeutic potential of exosomes from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HUMSCs-Exo) for delivering specific circular RNAs (circRNAs) in treating premature ovarian failure (POF) is not well understood. This study aimed to explore the efficacy of HUMSCs-Exo in delivering hsa_circ_0002021 for POF treatment, focusing on its effects on granulosa cell (GC) senescence and ovarian function. METHODS Bioinformatic analysis was conducted on circRNA profiles using the GSE97193 dataset from GEO, targeting granulosa cells from varied age groups. To simulate granulosa cell senescence, KGN cells were treated with cyclophosphamide (CTX). HUMSCs were transfected with pcDNA 3.1 vectors to overexpress hsa_circ_0002021, and the HUMSCs-Exo secreted were isolated. These exosomes were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Western blotting to confirm exosomal markers CD9 and CD63. Co-culture of these exosomes with CTX-treated KGN cells was performed to assess β-galactosidase activity, oxidative stress markers, ROS levels, and apoptosis via flow cytometry. Interaction between hsa_circ_0002021, microRNA-125a-5p (miR-125a-5p), and cyclin-dependent kinase 6 (CDK6) was investigated using dual-luciferase assays and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP). A POF mouse model was induced with CTX, treated with HUMSCs-Exo, and analyzed histologically and via immunofluorescence staining. Gene expression was quantified using RT-qPCR and Western blot. RESULTS hsa_circ_0002021 was under expressed in both in vivo and in vitro POF models and was effectively delivered by HUMSCs-Exo to KGN cells, showing a capability to reduce GC senescence. Overexpression of hsa_circ_0002021 in HUMSCs-Exo significantly enhanced these anti-senescence effects. This circRNA acts as a competitive adsorbent of miR-125a-5p, regulating CDK6 expression, which is crucial in modulating cell cycle and apoptosis. Enhanced expression of hsa_circ_0002021 in HUMSCs-Exo ameliorated GC senescence in vitro and improved ovarian function in POF models by modulating oxidative stress and cellular senescence markers. CONCLUSION This study confirms that hsa_circ_0002021, when delivered through HUMSCs-Exo, can significantly mitigate GC senescence and restore ovarian function in POF models. These findings provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms of POF and highlight the therapeutic potential of circRNA-enriched exosomes in treating ovarian aging and dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ge Yang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zigong Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Zigong City, 643010, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine Center, Sichuan Neo-Life Stem Cell Biotech Inc, Chengdu City, 610036, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Mei Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zigong Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Zigong City, 643010, Sichuan Province, China
| | - MingJun Wu
- Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine Center, Sichuan Neo-Life Stem Cell Biotech Inc, Chengdu City, 610036, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jie Lin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Zigong Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Zigong City, 643010, Sichuan Province, China
| | - ZiYu Luo
- Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine Center, Sichuan Neo-Life Stem Cell Biotech Inc, Chengdu City, 610036, Sichuan Province, China
| | - YueHua Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Zigong Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Zigong City, 643010, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Qin Hu
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Zigong Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Zigong City, 643010, Sichuan Province, China
| | - GuoPing Huang
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Zigong Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Zigong City, 643010, Sichuan Province, China
| | - HaiYan Hu
- Department of Pediatrics, Zigong Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, No.49, Dahuangtong Road, Longjing Street, Da'an District, Zigong City, 643010, Sichuan Province, China.
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Homer HA. Understanding oocyte ageing. Minerva Obstet Gynecol 2024; 76:284-292. [PMID: 38536027 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-606x.24.05343-0] [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: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Females are born with a finite and non-renewable reservoir of oocytes, which therefore decline both in number and quality with advancing age. A striking characteristic of oocyte quality is that "ageing" effects manifest whilst women are in their thirties and are therefore still chronologically and physically young. Furthermore, this decline is unrelenting and not modifiable to any great extent by lifestyle or diet. Since oocyte quality is rate-limiting for pregnancy success, as the proportion of good-quality oocytes progressively deteriorate, the chance of successful pregnancy during each 6-12-month period also decreases, becoming exponential after 37 years. Unlike oocyte quality, age-related attrition in the size of the ovarian reservoir is less impactful for natural fertility since only one mature oocyte is typically ovulated per menstrual cycle. In contrast, oocyte numbers are pivotal for in-vitro fertilization success, since larger numbers enable better-quality oocytes to be found and is important for buffering the inefficiencies of the IVF process. The ageing trajectory is accelerated in ~10% of women, so-called premature ovarian ageing, with ~1% of women at the extreme end of this spectrum with loss of ovarian function occurring before 40 years of age, termed premature ovarian insufficiency. The aim of this review was to analyze how ageing impacts the size and quality of the oocyte pool along with emerging interventions for combating low oocyte numbers and improving quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayden A Homer
- Queensland Fertility Group, Christopher Chen Oocyte Biology Research Laboratory, UQ Center for Clinical Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia -
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Kalinderi K, Kalinderis M, Papaliagkas V, Fidani L. The Reproductive Lifespan of Ovarian Follicle. Reprod Sci 2024:10.1007/s43032-024-01606-8. [PMID: 38816594 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01606-8] [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: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
The functional unit within mammalian ovaries is the ovarian follicle. The development of the ovarian follicle is a lengthy process beginning from the time of embryogenesis, passing through multiple different stages of maturation. The purpose of this review is to describe the most basic events in the journey of ovarian follicle development, discussing the importance of ovarian reserve and highlighting the role of several factors that affect oocyte quality and quantity during aging including hormonal, genetic and epigenetic factors. Novel, promising anti-aging strategies are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kallirhoe Kalinderi
- Laboratory of Medical Biology-Genetics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, GR-54124, Greece.
| | - Michail Kalinderis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, St George's University Hospital NHS Trust, Blackshaw Road, Tooting, London, SW17 0QT, UK
| | - Vasileios Papaliagkas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health Sciences, International Hellenic University, Thessaloniki, 57400, Greece
| | - Liana Fidani
- Laboratory of Medical Biology-Genetics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, GR-54124, Greece
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Almatrafi AM, Hibshi AM, Basit S. Exome Sequencing to Identify Novel Variants Associated with Secondary Amenorrhea and Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI) in Saudi Women. Biomedicines 2024; 12:785. [PMID: 38672141 PMCID: PMC11048260 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12040785] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Post-pubertal disappearance of menstrual cycles (secondary amenorrhea) associated with premature follicular depletion is a heterogeneous condition. Patients with this disease have low levels of gonadal hormones and high levels of gonadotropins. It is one of the causes of female infertility and a strong genetic component is attributed as an underlying cause of this condition. Although variants in several genes have been associated with the condition, the cause of the disease remains undetermined in the vast majority of cases. Methodology and Materials: Ten Saudi married women experiencing secondary amenorrhea were referred to a center for genetics and inherited diseases for molecular investigation. A family-based study design was used. Intensive clinical examinations, including pelvic ultra-sonography (U/S) and biochemical evaluations, were carried out. Karyotypes were normal in all cases and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) was excluded by using Rotterdam consensus criteria. Patients' DNA samples were whole-exome sequenced (WES). Bidirectional Sanger sequencing was then utilized to validate the identified candidate variants. The pathogenicity of detected variants was predicted using several types of bioinformatics software. RESULTS Most of the patients have a normal uterus with poor ovarian reserves. Exome sequence data analysis identified candidate variants in genes associated with POI in 60% of cases. Novel variants were identified in HS6ST1, MEIOB, GDF9, and BNC1 in POI-associated genes. Moreover, a homozygous variant was also identified in the MMRN1 gene. Interestingly, mutations in MMRN1 have never been associated with any human disease. The variants identified in this study were not present in 125 healthy Saudi individuals. CONCLUSIONS WES is a powerful tool to identify the underlying variants in genetically heterogeneous diseases like secondary amenorrhea and POI. In this study, we identified six novel variants and expanded the genotype continuum of POI. Unravelling the genetic landscape of POI will help in genetic counselling, management, and early intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M. Almatrafi
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Taibah University, Al Madinah Al Munawarah 42353, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali M. Hibshi
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, King Sulman Medical City-Madinah Maternity and Children Hospital, Al Madinah Al Munawarah 42319, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Sulman Basit
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, and Centre for Genetics and Inherited Diseases, Taibah University, Al Madinah Al Munawarah 42353, Saudi Arabia;
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Escarcega-Bordagaray JA, Torres-Martinez M, Hinojosa-Gonzalez DE, Ramírez-Díaz M, Fàbregues F, Carmona F. Basal characteristics of patients who responded to Ovarian Fragmentation for Follicular Activation (OFFA) or In Vitro Activation (IVA): a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:989-998. [PMID: 38315420 PMCID: PMC11052944 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03046-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to identify if there is a subset of patients with POI who are more likely to show follicular growth after ovarian fragmentation for follicular activation (OFFA) or in vitro activation (IVA). Five studies met inclusion criteria for meta-analysis with a total of 164 patients. Forty-three patients showed follicle development (26.21%). Of those, the pregnancy rate was 35.58% (11/43) and the live birth rate was 20.93% (9/43). Our meta-analysis showed that age was not associated with follicle growth. However, lower baseline FSH, lower duration of amenorrhea/diagnosis, and presence of follicles remaining in biopsy were statistically significant for follicle development. Patients with basal characteristics mentioned before may have more chances to show follicle growth after OFFA or IVA. Taking into account that approximately 20% of patients with follicle growth had live birth, these results are very promising. Given the overall certainty of evidence, future studies are needed to confirm said results.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mauricio Torres-Martinez
- Tecnológico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - David Eugenio Hinojosa-Gonzalez
- Tecnológico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Mónica Ramírez-Díaz
- Tecnológico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Francesc Fàbregues
- Department of Gynecology, Institut Clinic of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Carrer de Villarroel, 170, 08036, Barcelona, Spain.
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain.
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Francisco Carmona
- Department of Gynecology, Institut Clinic of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Carrer de Villarroel, 170, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Kim HK, Kim TJ. Current Status and Future Prospects of Stem Cell Therapy for Infertile Patients with Premature Ovarian Insufficiency. Biomolecules 2024; 14:242. [PMID: 38397479 PMCID: PMC10887045 DOI: 10.3390/biom14020242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), also known as premature menopause or premature ovarian failure, signifies the partial or complete loss of ovarian endocrine function and fertility before 40 years of age. This condition affects approximately 1% of women of childbearing age. Although 5-10% of patients may conceive naturally, conventional infertility treatments, including assisted reproductive technology, often prove ineffective for the majority. For infertile patients with POI, oocyte donation or adoption exist, although a prevalent desire persists among them to have biological children. Stem cells, which are characterized by their undifferentiated nature, self-renewal capability, and potential to differentiate into various cell types, have emerged as promising avenues for treating POI. Stem cell therapy can potentially reverse the diminished ovarian endocrine function and restore fertility. Beyond direct POI therapy, stem cells show promise in supplementary applications such as ovarian tissue cryopreservation and tissue engineering. However, technological and ethical challenges hinder the widespread clinical application of stem cells. This review examines the current landscape of stem cell therapy for POI, underscoring the importance of comprehensive assessments that acknowledge the diversity of cell types and functions. Additionally, this review scrutinizes the limitations and prospects associated with the clinical implementation of stem cell treatments for POI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Kyeong Kim
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Infertility Center, CHA University Ilsan Medical Center, Goyang 10414, Republic of Korea;
| | - Tae Jin Kim
- Department of Urology, CHA University Ilsan Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Goyang 10414, Republic of Korea
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Garg A, Seli E. Leukocyte telomere length and DNA methylome as biomarkers of ovarian reserve and embryo aneuploidy: the intricate relationship between somatic and reproductive aging. Fertil Steril 2024; 121:26-33. [PMID: 37979607 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.11.011] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
The average childbearing age among women continues to rise, leading to an increased prevalence of infertility and a subsequent increased use of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). Ovarian aging, especially diminished ovarian reserve and poor ovarian response, have been implicated as common causes of infertility. Telomere length and DNA methylation-based epigenetic clocks are established hallmarks of cellular aging; however, the interplay between somatic and ovarian aging remains unclear. There appears to be a lack of correlation between leukocyte telomere length and the DNA methylation age of somatic and ovarian cells. Both the telomere length and methylome of follicular somatic cells (granulosa and cumulus) appear to be unaffected by chronologic age, infertility, or processes that result in diminished ovarian reserve and poor ovarian response. As such, they are unlikely candidates as surrogate biomarkers of reproductive potential, response to stimulation, or ART outcome. Meanwhile, telomere or methylome changes in leukocytes associated with aging seem to correlate with reproductive function and may have the potential to aid the characterization of women with reproductive decline; however, current data are limited and larger studies evaluating this within an ART setting are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akanksha Garg
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Emre Seli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut; IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA New Jersey, Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
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10
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Buigues A, Ramírez-Martin N, Martínez J, Pellicer N, Meseguer M, Pellicer A, Herraiz S. Systemic changes induced by autologous stem cell ovarian transplant in plasma proteome of women with impaired ovarian reserves. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:14553-14573. [PMID: 38149997 PMCID: PMC10781467 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205400] [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: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Patients with poor ovarian response (POR) and premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) are challenging to treat, with oocyte donation remaining as the only feasible option to achieve pregnancy in some cases. The Autologous stem cell ovarian transplantation (ASCOT) technique allows follicle development, enabling pregnancies and births of healthy babies in these patients. Previous results suggest that growth factors and cytokines secreted by stem cells are partially responsible for their regenerative properties. Indeed, ASCOT beneficial effects associate with the presence of different bone marrow derived stem cell- secreted factors in plasma. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess whether ASCOT induce any modifications in the plasma proteomic profile of patients with impaired ovarian reserves. Discriminant analysis highlighted clear distinctions between the plasma proteome before (PRE), during stem cell mobilization and collection (APHERESIS) and three months after ASCOT (POST) in patients with POR and POI. Both the stem cell mobilization and ASCOT technique induced statistically significant modifications in the plasma composition, reversing some age-related protein expression changes. In the POR group, functional analysis revealed an enrichment in processes related to the complement cascade, immune system, and platelet degranulation, while in the POI group, enriched processes were also associated with responses to oxygen-containing compounds and growth hormones, and blood vessel maturation. In conclusion, our findings highlight the potential proteins and biological processes that may promote the follicle activation and growth observed after ASCOT. Identifying plasma proteins that regenerate aged or damaged ovaries could lead to more effective, targeted and/or preventive therapies for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Buigues
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation - Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia 46026, Spain
| | - Noelia Ramírez-Martin
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation - Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia 46026, Spain
| | - Jessica Martínez
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation - Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia 46026, Spain
| | - Nuria Pellicer
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation - Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia 46026, Spain
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA Valencia, Valencia 46015, Spain
| | - Marcos Meseguer
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation - Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia 46026, Spain
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA Valencia, Valencia 46015, Spain
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation - Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia 46026, Spain
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA Rome, Rome 00197, Italy
| | - Sonia Herraiz
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation - Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia 46026, Spain
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Vali S, Saso S, Bracewell Milnes T, Nicopoullos J, Thum MY, Smith JR, Jones BP. The Clinical Application of Platelet-Rich Plasma in the Female Reproductive System: A Narrative Review. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2348. [PMID: 38137949 PMCID: PMC10744710 DOI: 10.3390/life13122348] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Platelet-rich plasma is an autologous plasma containing platelets prepared from fresh whole blood drawn from a peripheral vein. Through processing, it can be prepared to contain supraphysiologic levels of platelets at three to five times greater than the level of normal plasma. PRP has been explored both in vivo and ex vivo in the human endometrium model in its ability to harness the intrinsic regenerative capacity of the endometrium. Intrauterine autologous PRP infusions have been shown to increase endometrial thickness and reduce the rate of intrauterine adhesions. In the setting of recurrent implantation failure, intrauterine infusion of PRP has been shown to increase clinical pregnancy rate. PRP also appears to hold a potential role in select patients with premature ovarian insufficiency, poor ovarian responders and in improving outcomes following frozen-thawed transplantation of autologous ovarian tissue. Further studies are required to explore the potential role of PRP in reproductive medicine further, to help standardise PRP protocols and evaluate which routes of administration are most effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saaliha Vali
- Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College NHS Trust, London W12 OHS, UK; (S.S.); (J.R.S.); (B.P.J.)
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; (T.B.M.); (J.N.); (M.-Y.T.)
| | - Srdjan Saso
- Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College NHS Trust, London W12 OHS, UK; (S.S.); (J.R.S.); (B.P.J.)
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; (T.B.M.); (J.N.); (M.-Y.T.)
| | - Timothy Bracewell Milnes
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; (T.B.M.); (J.N.); (M.-Y.T.)
- Lister Fertility Clinic, The Lister Hospital, London SW1W 8RH, UK
| | - James Nicopoullos
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; (T.B.M.); (J.N.); (M.-Y.T.)
- Lister Fertility Clinic, The Lister Hospital, London SW1W 8RH, UK
| | - Meen-Yau Thum
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; (T.B.M.); (J.N.); (M.-Y.T.)
- Lister Fertility Clinic, The Lister Hospital, London SW1W 8RH, UK
| | - James Richard Smith
- Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College NHS Trust, London W12 OHS, UK; (S.S.); (J.R.S.); (B.P.J.)
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; (T.B.M.); (J.N.); (M.-Y.T.)
| | - Benjamin P. Jones
- Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College NHS Trust, London W12 OHS, UK; (S.S.); (J.R.S.); (B.P.J.)
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; (T.B.M.); (J.N.); (M.-Y.T.)
- Lister Fertility Clinic, The Lister Hospital, London SW1W 8RH, UK
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Huang Y, Su S, Luo W, Zhong H, Wang X, Lyu G. Effects and mechanisms of intrauterine chronic hypoxia on ovarian reserve function of zygotic rats. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19771. [PMID: 37957219 PMCID: PMC10643435 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-47088-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic intrauterine hypoxia (ICH) may lead to permanent alterations in the offspring's body structure, function, and metabolism through the "developmental programming" pathway, resulting in lasting changes in physiology and metabolism, as well as the onset of adult-onset diseases. The aim was to investigate intrauterine growth restriction caused by ICH and its effect on ovarian reserve function in female offspring at different developmental stages after birth. Healthy female Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 20) were pregnant by normal mating, and the rats in the ICH group were treated with chronic intrauterine hypoxia twice a day for 04 h00 each time from day 4 to 21 of gestation. After the first hypoxic treatment, four pregnant rats were randomly selected from the ICH and natural control groups for arterial blood gas analysis. In the ICH group, birth weight and body weight on the 5th day after birth were less than in the control group, the total number of follicles and the number of primordial follicles in the offspring of the ICH group were significantly reduced on postnatal days 5, 20, and 40 (p < 0.05). ICH decreases ovarian reserve function in female offspring rats and programmatically regulates the differential expression of ovarian miRNAs in female offspring rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Huang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, 362000, China
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, 362000, China
| | - Shanshan Su
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, 362000, China
| | - Weiwen Luo
- Department of Ultrasound, Zhangzhou Hospital, Zhangzhou, 363000, Fujian Province, China
| | - Huohu Zhong
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, 362000, China
| | - Xiali Wang
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, 362000, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Maternal and Infant Health Service Application Technology of Education Ministry, Quanzhou Medical College, Quanzhou, 362000, China
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Quanzhou Medical College, Quanzhou, 362000, China
| | - Guorong Lyu
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, 362000, China.
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Maternal and Infant Health Service Application Technology of Education Ministry, Quanzhou Medical College, Quanzhou, 362000, China.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Quanzhou Medical College, Quanzhou, 362000, China.
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