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Gonzalez-Martin R, Palomar A, Perez-Deben S, Salsano S, Quiñonero A, Caracena L, Fernandez-Saavedra R, Fernandez-Martinez R, Conde-Vilda E, Quejido AJ, Giles J, Vidal C, Bellver J, Dominguez F. Higher Concentrations of Essential Trace Elements in Women Undergoing IVF May Be Associated with Poor Reproductive Outcomes Following Single Euploid Embryo Transfer. Cells 2024; 13:839. [PMID: 38786061 PMCID: PMC11119764 DOI: 10.3390/cells13100839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Essential trace elements are micronutrients whose deficiency has been associated with altered fertility and/or adverse pregnancy outcomes, while surplus may be toxic. The concentrations of eight essential trace elements were measured using inductively coupled mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and assessed with respect to clinical in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes in a population of 51 women undergoing IVF with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), pre-implantation genetic screening for aneuploidy (PGT-A), and single frozen euploid embryo transfer (SET/FET). Specifically, copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), molybdenum, selenium, lithium, iron, chromium, and manganese were quantified in follicular fluid and whole blood collected the day of vaginal oocyte retrieval (VOR) and in urine collected the day of VOR and embryo transfer. We found that the whole blood Cu/Zn ratio was significantly associated with superior responses to ovarian stimulation. Conversely, the whole blood zinc and selenium concentrations were significantly associated with poor ovarian response outcomes. Higher levels of whole blood zinc and selenium, urinary selenium, lithium, and iron had significant negative associations with embryologic outcomes following IVF. Regarding clinical IVF outcomes, higher urinary molybdenum concentrations the day of VOR were associated with significantly lower odds of implantation and live birth, while higher urinary Cu/Mo ratios on the day of VOR were associated with significantly higher odds of implantation, clinical pregnancy, and live birth. Our results suggest that essential trace element levels may directly influence the IVF outcomes of Spanish patients, with selenium and molybdenum exerting negative effects and copper-related ratios exerting positive effects. Additional studies are warranted to confirm these relationships in other human populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Gonzalez-Martin
- IVI-RMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), 46026 Valencia, Spain; (R.G.-M.); (A.P.); (A.Q.); (L.C.); (J.G.); (C.V.); (J.B.)
| | - Andrea Palomar
- IVI-RMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), 46026 Valencia, Spain; (R.G.-M.); (A.P.); (A.Q.); (L.C.); (J.G.); (C.V.); (J.B.)
| | - Silvia Perez-Deben
- IVI-RMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), 46026 Valencia, Spain; (R.G.-M.); (A.P.); (A.Q.); (L.C.); (J.G.); (C.V.); (J.B.)
| | - Stefania Salsano
- IVI-RMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), 46026 Valencia, Spain; (R.G.-M.); (A.P.); (A.Q.); (L.C.); (J.G.); (C.V.); (J.B.)
| | - Alicia Quiñonero
- IVI-RMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), 46026 Valencia, Spain; (R.G.-M.); (A.P.); (A.Q.); (L.C.); (J.G.); (C.V.); (J.B.)
| | - Laura Caracena
- IVI-RMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), 46026 Valencia, Spain; (R.G.-M.); (A.P.); (A.Q.); (L.C.); (J.G.); (C.V.); (J.B.)
- IVI-RMA Global Research Alliance, IVI-RMA Valencia, 46015 Valencia, Spain
| | - Rocio Fernandez-Saavedra
- Unit of Mass Spectrometry and Geochemical Applications, Chemistry Division, Department of Technology, Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (R.F.-S.); (R.F.-M.); (E.C.-V.); (A.J.Q.)
| | - Rodolfo Fernandez-Martinez
- Unit of Mass Spectrometry and Geochemical Applications, Chemistry Division, Department of Technology, Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (R.F.-S.); (R.F.-M.); (E.C.-V.); (A.J.Q.)
| | - Estefania Conde-Vilda
- Unit of Mass Spectrometry and Geochemical Applications, Chemistry Division, Department of Technology, Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (R.F.-S.); (R.F.-M.); (E.C.-V.); (A.J.Q.)
| | - Alberto J. Quejido
- Unit of Mass Spectrometry and Geochemical Applications, Chemistry Division, Department of Technology, Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (R.F.-S.); (R.F.-M.); (E.C.-V.); (A.J.Q.)
| | - Juan Giles
- IVI-RMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), 46026 Valencia, Spain; (R.G.-M.); (A.P.); (A.Q.); (L.C.); (J.G.); (C.V.); (J.B.)
- IVI-RMA Global Research Alliance, IVI-RMA Valencia, 46015 Valencia, Spain
| | - Carmen Vidal
- IVI-RMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), 46026 Valencia, Spain; (R.G.-M.); (A.P.); (A.Q.); (L.C.); (J.G.); (C.V.); (J.B.)
- IVI-RMA Global Research Alliance, IVI-RMA Valencia, 46015 Valencia, Spain
| | - Jose Bellver
- IVI-RMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), 46026 Valencia, Spain; (R.G.-M.); (A.P.); (A.Q.); (L.C.); (J.G.); (C.V.); (J.B.)
- IVI-RMA Global Research Alliance, IVI-RMA Valencia, 46015 Valencia, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Francisco Dominguez
- IVI-RMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), 46026 Valencia, Spain; (R.G.-M.); (A.P.); (A.Q.); (L.C.); (J.G.); (C.V.); (J.B.)
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Montagnoli C, Ruggeri S, Cinelli G, Tozzi AE, Bovo C, Bortolus R, Zanconato G. Anything New about Paternal Contribution to Reproductive Outcomes? A Review of the Evidence. World J Mens Health 2021; 39:626-644. [PMID: 33474842 PMCID: PMC8443996 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.200147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Paternal health and behavioral lifestyles affect reproductive and neonatal outcomes and yet the magnitude of these effects remain underestimated. Even though these impacts have been formally recognized as a central aspect of reproductive health, health care services in Europe often neglect the involvement of fathers in their reproductive programs. Following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines for systematic reviews, a literature search was carried out to assess the possible impact of paternal health on reproductive outcomes. The comprehensive strategy included cohort studies and meta-analysis available on PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Google scholar. Cross-referencing of bibliographies of the selected papers ensured wider study capture. Paternal factors were grouped into two categories respectively identified with the terms "Biological Paternal Factors" and "Lifestyle Paternal Factors". Advanced age may impair male fertility and affect early pregnancy stages. Increased body mass index, smoking, alcohol and recreational drugs, all alter seminal fluid parameters. Hazardous alcohol use correlates with low birthweight in pregnancy and harmful behavioral lifestyles have been linked to congenital heart defects, metabolic and neurodevelopmental disorders in the offspring. Measures targeting paternal health and lifestyle within the first 1,000 days' timeframe need to be implemented in couples undergoing reproductive decisions. Health professionals, as well as future fathers, must be aware of the benefits for the offspring associated with correct paternal behaviors. More research is needed to build guidelines and to implement specific programs aiming at reproductive health promotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Montagnoli
- Department of Medical Direction, Verona University Hospital, Verona, Italy.,Department of Midwifery, Geneva School of Health Sciences, HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Western Switzerland, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Giulia Cinelli
- Predictive and Preventive Medicine Research Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto E Tozzi
- Predictive and Preventive Medicine Research Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
| | - Chiara Bovo
- Department of Medical Direction, Verona University Hospital, Verona, Italy
| | - Renata Bortolus
- Directorate General for Preventive Health - Office 9, Ministry of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Zanconato
- Department of Surgery, Odontostomatology and Maternal and Child Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Chronopoulou E, Seifalian A, Stephenson J, Serhal P, Saab W, Seshadri S. Preconceptual care for couples seeking fertility treatment, an evidence-based approach. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.xfnr.2020.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Guo J, Tian P, Xu Z, Zhang H. Introduction to Environmental Harmful Factors. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1300:3-19. [PMID: 33523427 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-33-4187-6_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
In this Chapter, we systematically and comprehensively described various environmental harmful factors. They were classified into four aspects: physical factors, chemical factors, biological factors, and physiological and psychological stress factors. Their classification, modes of presence, toxicity and carcinogenicity, routes of exposure to human and toxic effects on the female reproductive health were introduced. It is expected that the exposure routes could be controlled and eliminated, and the pathogenic mechanism of environmental harmful factors should be investigated and explained to protect female reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiarong Guo
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Female Reproductive Health, West China School of Public Health, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Peng Tian
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Female Reproductive Health, West China School of Public Health, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhongyan Xu
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Female Reproductive Health, West China School of Public Health, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Huidong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Female Reproductive Health, West China School of Public Health, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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Wu H, Whitcomb BW, Huffman A, Brandon N, Labrie S, Tougias E, Lynch K, Rahil T, Sites CK, Pilsner JR. Associations of sperm mitochondrial DNA copy number and deletion rate with fertilization and embryo development in a clinical setting. Hum Reprod 2019; 34:163-170. [PMID: 30428043 PMCID: PMC6295960 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are sperm mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNAcn) and deletion rate (mtDNAdel) associated with odds of fertilization and high embryo quality at Days 3 and 5? SUMMARY ANSWER Higher sperm mtDNAcn and mtDNAdel were associated with lower odds of high quality Day 3 embryos and transfer quality Day 5 embryos, both of which were primarily driven by lowered odds of fertilization. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Sperm mtDNAcn and mtDNAdel have been previously associated with poor semen parameters and clinical male infertility. One prior study has shown that mtDNAdel is associated with lower fertilization rates. However, it is unknown whether these characteristics are linked with ART outcomes. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This prospective observational study included 119 sperm samples collected from men undergoing ART in Western Massachusetts. ART outcomes were observed through to Day 5 post-insemination. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTINGS, METHODS As part of the Sperm Environmental Epigenetics and Development Study (SEEDS), 119 sperm samples were collected from men undergoing ART in Western Massachusetts. Sperm mtDNAcn and mtDNAdel were measured via triplex probe-based qPCR. Fertilization, Day 3 embryo quality and Day 5 embryo quality measures were fitted with mtDNAcn and mtDNAdel using generalized estimating equations. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE After adjusting for male age and measurement batches, higher sperm mtDNAcn and mtDNAdel were associated with lower odds of fertilization (P = 0.01 and P < 0.01), high quality Day 3 embryos (P = 0.02 for both) and transfer quality Day 5 embryos (P = 0.01 and P = 0.09). However, the associations of mtDNAcn and mtDNAdel with Day 3 high quality status and Day 5 transfer quality status were attenuated in models restricted to fertilized oocytes. Sperm mtDNAcn and mtDNAdel remained statistically significant in models adjusted for both male age and semen parameters, although models including both mtDNA markers generally favoured mtDNAdel. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Our sample only included oocytes and embryos from 119 couples and thus large diverse cohorts are necessary to confirm the association of sperm mtDNA biomarkers with embryo development. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS To our knowledge, our study is the first to assess the associations of sperm mtDNAcn and mtDNAdel with fertilization and embryo quality. The biological mechanism(s) underlying these associations are unknown. Multivariable models suggest that sperm mtDNAcn and mtDNAdel provide discrimination independent of age and semen parameters; therefore, future investigation of the utility of sperm mtDNA as a biomarker for ART outcomes is warranted. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by Grant (K22-ES023085) from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. The authors declare no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haotian Wu
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts, 686 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Brian W Whitcomb
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts, 715 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Alexandra Huffman
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts, 686 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Nicole Brandon
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts, 686 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Suzanne Labrie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Baystate Medical Center, 759 Chestnut Street, Springfield, MA, USA
| | - Ellen Tougias
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Baystate Medical Center, 759 Chestnut Street, Springfield, MA, USA
| | - Kelly Lynch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Baystate Medical Center, 759 Chestnut Street, Springfield, MA, USA
| | - Tayyab Rahil
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Baystate Medical Center, 759 Chestnut Street, Springfield, MA, USA
| | - Cynthia K Sites
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Baystate Medical Center, 759 Chestnut Street, Springfield, MA, USA
| | - J Richard Pilsner
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts, 686 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA, USA
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Wesselink AK, Hatch EE, Wise LA, Rothman KJ, Vieira VM, Aschengrau A. Exposure to tetrachloroethylene-contaminated drinking water and time to pregnancy. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2018; 167:136-143. [PMID: 30014895 PMCID: PMC6399737 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2018.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Revised: 07/02/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The synthetic solvent tetrachloroethylene (PCE), commonly used in dry cleaning operations, is a human neurotoxicant and carcinogen. However, its effect on reproduction is poorly understood, as prior studies have been limited to small occupational cohorts. We examined the association between PCE exposure from contamination of the public drinking water supply and time-to-pregnancy (TTP) in a cohort of mothers from Cape Cod, Massachusetts. METHODS The Cape Cod Family Health Study is a retrospective cohort study designed to examine the reproductive and developmental health effects of exposure to PCE-contaminated drinking water. Our analysis included 1565 women who reported 3826 planned pregnancies from 1949 to 1990. Women completed self-administered questionnaires that ascertained TTP for each of her pregnancies, regardless of the outcome, as well as residential history and demographic information. We utilized EPANET water distribution system modeling software and a leaching and transport model to assess PCE exposure for each pregnancy. We used log-binomial regression models to estimate relative risks (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI), adjusting for potential confounders. We performed a probabilistic bias analysis to examine the effect of outcome misclassification on our results. RESULTS Any cumulative PCE exposure before pregnancy was associated with a 15% reduction in risk of TTP > 12 months (RR = 0.85, 95% CI: 0.70, 1.03). However, women with the highest average monthly PCE exposure around the time of the pregnancy attempt (≥ 2.5 g) had increased risk of TTP > 12 months (RR = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.06, 1.76). CONCLUSIONS We found little evidence for long-term, cumulative adverse effects of PCE exposure on TTP, but high levels of PCE exposure around the time of the pregnancy attempt were associated with longer TTP. These associations may be underestimated due to the exclusion of unsuccessful pregnancy attempts from our study population, and may be biased by outcome and exposure misclassification given the long-term recall of TTP and use of a leaching and transport model to estimate PCE exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelia K Wesselink
- Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Elizabeth E Hatch
- Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth J Rothman
- Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Boston, MA, USA; RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Veronica M Vieira
- University of California, Irvine, Program in Public Health, Susan and Henry Samueli College of Health Sciences, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Ann Aschengrau
- Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Boston, MA, USA
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8
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Sharma R, Biedenharn KR, Fedor JM, Agarwal A. Lifestyle factors and reproductive health: taking control of your fertility. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2013; 11:66. [PMID: 23870423 PMCID: PMC3717046 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-11-66] [Citation(s) in RCA: 349] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2013] [Accepted: 07/10/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 10 to 15% of couples are impacted by infertility. Recently, the pivotal role that lifestyle factors play in the development of infertility has generated a considerable amount of interest. Lifestyle factors are the modifiable habits and ways of life that can greatly influence overall health and well-being, including fertility. Many lifestyle factors such as the age at which to start a family, nutrition, weight, exercise, psychological stress, environmental and occupational exposures, and others can have substantial effects on fertility; lifestyle factors such as cigarette smoking, illicit drug use, and alcohol and caffeine consumption can negatively influence fertility while others such as preventative care may be beneficial. The present literature review encompasses multiple lifestyle factors and places infertility in context for the couple by focusing on both males and females; it aims to identify the roles that lifestyle factors play in determining reproductive status. The growing interest and amount of research in this field have made it evident that lifestyle factors have a significant impact on fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakesh Sharma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Kelly R Biedenharn
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Jennifer M Fedor
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, USA
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9
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Merhi ZO. Gulf Coast oil disaster: impact on human reproduction. Fertil Steril 2010; 94:1575-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2010.08.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2010] [Revised: 08/13/2010] [Accepted: 08/16/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Anderson K, Nisenblat V, Norman R. Lifestyle factors in people seeking infertility treatment - A review. Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 2010; 50:8-20. [PMID: 20218991 DOI: 10.1111/j.1479-828x.2009.01119.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical infertility is a prevalent problem with significant financial and psychosocial costs. Modifiable lifestyle factors exist that may affect a person's time to conception and their chance of having a healthy, live birth. However, no guideline delineates what preconception advice should be offered to people presenting for infertility treatment. AIM The aim of this article is to review the literature regarding modifiable lifestyle factors in people seeking infertility treatment. RESULTS A person's time to pregnancy and their chance of having a healthy, live birth may be affected by factors such as weight, vitamin and iodine intake, alcohol and caffeine consumption, smoking, substance abuse, stress, environmental pollutants, vaccinations and oxidative stress. CONCLUSIONS Advice on modifiable lifestyle factors should be given to people presenting for infertility treatment to help them make positive changes that may improve their chances of pregnancy and delivering a healthy, live baby. Developing a guideline for this would be a prudent step towards helping clinicians to implement this aspect of preconception care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty Anderson
- Level 6 Medical School, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
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11
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Kumar S, Mishra VV. Review: Toxicants in reproductive fluid and in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome. Toxicol Ind Health 2010; 26:505-11. [PMID: 20529961 DOI: 10.1177/0748233710373081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Some of the physical, chemical, dietary, occupational and environmental factors are having adverse effect on human reproduction. Increasing trend in reproductive disorders in recent years at least in part might be associated with these factors. The data available suggests less success rate of in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome of parents exposed to some of the reproductive toxic chemicals as compared to parents who were not exposed to such chemicals. However, data are very meager and require more studies as some debatable data also exists. But existing positive findings encourage in advising that sub-fertile subjects, who are planning to go for the IVF, should reduce toxic exposure well in advance by adopting positive life style and work environment. Further, clinician ought to be aware of occupational and environmental exposure history of the participating couple.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil Kumar
- Division of Reproductive and Cytotoxicology, National Institute of Occupational Health (ICMR), Ahmedabad 380016, India.
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12
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Homan GF, Davies M, Norman R. The impact of lifestyle factors on reproductive performance in the general population and those undergoing infertility treatment: a review. Hum Reprod Update 2007; 13:209-23. [PMID: 17208948 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dml056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 243] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
This evidence-based review focuses on the impact of potentially modifiable, non-communicable lifestyle factors on reproductive performance in the general population and the infertile population undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment. The impact of several lifestyle factors including; age, weight, smoking, diet, exercise, psychological stress, caffeine consumption, alcohol consumption and exposure to environmental pollutants are included in the review. The databases of Medline, PubMed and Cinahl were searched to identify relevant publications. There is strong evidence that age, weight and smoking impact on general health and adversely on reproductive performance. However there is a need for further research focusing specifically on the relationship between diet and various levels of exercise on reproductive performance. There are several other factors such as psychological stress, caffeine consumption, alcohol consumption and exposure to environmental pollutants that have been implicated but the evidence is equivocal. It is concluded that lifestyle modification can assist couples to conceive spontaneously or optimize their chances of conception with ART treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- G F Homan
- Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Medical School, University of Adelaide, SA, Australia.
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Lamb JC, Hentz KL. Toxicological review of male reproductive effects and trichloroethylene exposure: Assessing the relevance to human male reproductive health. Reprod Toxicol 2006; 22:557-63. [PMID: 16938429 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2006.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2006] [Revised: 06/19/2006] [Accepted: 07/05/2006] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Effects of trichloroethylene (TCE) on male reproduction and fertility have been studied in mice and rats, and assessed in workers exposed to TCE. Only limited evidence exists for any male reproductive effects in rats or humans. The human studies of TCE male reproductive effects failed to provide much useful information for risk assessment. First, the TCE-specific studies are limited in group size, scope, and typically provide no data on dose, so dose-response assessment is impossible. In other studies, TCE is only one of many solvents identified in the workplace, such that the confounding exposures or lack of evidence of specific exposures make the exposure assessment useless. For TCE risk assessment, one currently must rely upon animal studies as more reliable and useful. The rat studies were generally negative, showing systemic toxicity but little or no male reproductive toxicity. The mouse studies showed various organ effects in the male reproductive system and were typically associated with increased liver weight and kidney toxicity. Enzyme induction and oxidative metabolism appear to be important in the systemic toxicity and may likewise play a role in the reproductive toxicity of TCE. Oxidative metabolites of TCE are formed in the mouse epididymis resulting in epididymal damage, and at systemically toxic high doses, TCE may adversely affect the maturation of sperm and decreasing sperm motility. Protection against systemic toxicity should also protect against adverse effects including male reproductive toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- James C Lamb
- The Weinberg Group Inc, Washington, DC 20036, USA.
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14
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Sallmén M, Baird DD, Hoppin JA, Blair A, Sandler DP. Fertility and exposure to solvents among families in the Agricultural Health Study. Occup Environ Med 2006; 63:469-75. [PMID: 16698811 PMCID: PMC2092515 DOI: 10.1136/oem.2005.021337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies have reported associations between solvent exposure and reduced female fertility, but the evidence is inconclusive for male fertility. OBJECTIVES To investigate the impact of solvent exposure on subfertility among families of male licensed pesticide applicators in the Agricultural Health Study cohort. METHODS The couples enrolled between 1993 and 1997. Cross-sectional questionnaire information on work tasks was used to assess exposure to solvents. The data were limited to couples (wife aged less than 40 years) with an attempt at pregnancy in the last four years (n = 2112). RESULTS Twenty eight per cent of the couples were defined as subfertile (not conceiving a pregnancy after at least 12 months of unprotected intercourse, regardless of whether or not a pregnancy ultimately occurred). Adjusted subfertility odds ratios (OR) for exposure to solvents were calculated with logistic regression. Female (OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.15 to 1.75) and male exposure to solvents (OR 1.21 (95% CI 0.93 to 1.57) for monthly exposure and 1.40 (95% CI 0.97 to 2.03) for daily or weekly exposure) were associated with subfertility. In farming, spouses may share or exchange jobs. To account for potential dual exposure, variables for parental exposure (either parent exposed or both parents exposed) were also defined. Both were strongly associated with subfertility (OR 1.62 (95% CI 1.20 to 2.17) and OR 2.10 (95% CI 1.22 to 3.60), respectively). CONCLUSIONS Solvents may impair fertility of either gender, though the evidence for female effects is stronger than for male effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Sallmén
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Human Health Services, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA.
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Cole DC, Wainman B, Sanin LH, Weber JP, Muggah H, Ibrahim S. Environmental contaminant levels and fecundability among non-smoking couples. Reprod Toxicol 2006; 22:13-9. [PMID: 16439098 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2005.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2005] [Revised: 11/22/2005] [Accepted: 12/06/2005] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of low level maternal and paternal persistent contaminant exposures on fecundability among couples from the general population. METHODS About 41 couples having their first pregnancy completed questionnaires and provided blood samples for analysis of metals, organochlorine pesticides, and polychorinated biphenyls. Associations of personal consumption and contaminant measures for mothers, fathers, and couples overall were analyzed through fecundability odds ratios (fOR, probability of pregnancy per month in more versus less exposed) in multivariable analyses. FINDINGS Couples with higher reported caffeine consumption (couple consumption > or =111 drinks/month, fOR 0.25, 95% CI, 0.10, 0.63) and higher mercury concentrations in maternal blood (>1.2 microg/L or 0.24 ppm in hair, fOR 0.22, 95% CI, 0.07, 0.72) had lower fecundability, after adjustment for intercourse frequency. CONCLUSION Reduced fecundability at levels below the mercury reference dose warrants further research and prudent reduction in persistent toxic substances exposure among women and men of reproductive age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald C Cole
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont., Canada; Institute for Work and Health, Toronto, Ont., Canada
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Hjollund NH, Bonde JP, Ernst E, Lindenberg S, Andersen AN, Olsen J. Spontaneous abortion in IVF couples—a role of male welding exposure. Hum Reprod 2005; 20:1793-7. [PMID: 15760968 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deh680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fume from welding of stainless steel contains hexavalent chromium, which in animal studies can induce paternally mediated spontaneous abortion. Human studies have shown conflicting results. The best studies include early pregnancy experience, but these are expensive to conduct. In vitro fertilization (IVF) provides new design opportunities. Our aim was to study pregnancy survival in IVF treated women with respect to paternal welding exposure. METHODS We mailed a questionnaire to 5879 couples from the Danish IVF register that covers all IVF treatments after 1993 (response ratio 68.2%). A subgroup of male metal workers received a second questionnaire on exposure to welding (n = 319 men, response ratio 77%). Information on outcome was collected from national health registers. Survival of the first hCG-positive pregnancy was analysed using Cox regression. RESULTS The proportion of pregnancies terminated by spontaneous abortion before 28 gestational weeks was 18% (n = 91 pregnancies) and 25% (n = 128) in pregnancies with paternal exposure to stainless steel welding and mild steel welding, respectively. In the reference group of 2925 pregnancies the abortion ratio was 28%. The risk ratio for pregnancies with paternal exposure to stainless steel was 0.6 (95% CI 0.4-1.0). CONCLUSIONS We found no increased risk of spontaneous abortion in IVF treated women, who became pregnant by a man exposed to welding of any sort. Since the process of fertilization and selection of IVF pregnancies differs from natural pregnancies the negative results need not apply to other pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- N H Hjollund
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, DK-8000, Aarhus, Denmark.
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Younglai EV, Holloway AC, Foster WG. Environmental and occupational factors affecting fertility and IVF success. Hum Reprod Update 2005; 11:43-57. [PMID: 15601728 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmh055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Reproductive function has been shown to be sensitive to changes in the physical, psychosocial and chemical environments. Although reproductive effects of occupational exposure to hazardous chemicals have been well documented in the literature, the potential effects of chemical contaminants at levels representative of contemporary exposures in the general population are much less certain. Evidence for adverse effects of exposure to environmental contaminants is more conclusive among the lower animals than for humans where considerable controversy remains. In addition to potential reproductive hazards of exposure to environmental contaminants, there is also evidence for adverse reproductive effects of the physical and psychosocial environments. In this review we focus on the difficulties involved in linking exposure to putative hazardous substances in environmental and occupational settings to adverse reproductive outcomes, especially success of IVF procedures. We highlight the plausibility of adverse events through animal and cell studies and the application of these results to the interpretation of human data. We consider both the male and female partners since it is essentially their combined contributions of gametes which may be affected by chemicals, which lead to successful outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward V Younglai
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Reproductive Biology Division, McMaster University, Health Sciences Centre, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
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DuTeaux SB, Berger T, Hess RA, Sartini BL, Miller MG. Male Reproductive Toxicity of Trichloroethylene: Sperm Protein Oxidation and Decreased Fertilizing Ability1. Biol Reprod 2004; 70:1518-26. [PMID: 14736810 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.103.022210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to characterize and investigate potential mechanisms for the male reproductive toxicity of trichloroethylene (TCE). Male rats exposed to TCE in drinking water exhibited a dose-dependent decrease in the ability to fertilize oocytes from untreated females. This reduction in fertilizing ability occurred in the absence of treatment-related changes in combined testes/epididymides weight, sperm concentration, or sperm motility. In addition, flow cytometric analysis showed that there were no treatment-related differences in sperm mitochondrial membrane potential or acrosomal stability. TCE caused slight histological changes in efferent ductule epithelium, coinciding with the previously reported ductule localization of cytochrome P450 2E1. However, no alterations were noted in the testis or in any segment of the epididymis. Because there were no treatment-related changes to sperm indices and no clear pathological lesions to explain the reduced fertilization, the present study investigated TCE-mediated sperm oxidative damage. Oxidized proteins were detected by immunochemical techniques following the derivatization of sperm protein carbonyls with dinitrophenyl hydrazine. Immunochemical staining of whole, intact sperm showed the presence of halos of oxidized proteins around the head and midpiece of sperm from TCE-treated animals. The presence of oxidized sperm proteins was confirmed by Western blotting using in vitro-oxidized sperm as a positive control. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances analyses showed a dose-dependent increase in the level of lipid peroxidation in sperm from treated animals, as well. Oxidative damage to sperm may explain the diminished fertilizing capacity of exposed animals and provide another mechanism by which TCE can adversely affect reproductive capabilities in the male.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelley Brown DuTeaux
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, California 95616, USA
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DuTeaux SB, Hengel MJ, DeGroot DE, Jelks KA, Miller MG. Evidence for trichloroethylene bioactivation and adduct formation in the rat epididymis and efferent ducts. Biol Reprod 2003; 69:771-9. [PMID: 12724279 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.102.014845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies indicate that trichloroethylene (TCE) may be a male reproductive toxicant. It is metabolized by conjugation with glutathione and cytochrome p450-dependent oxidation. Reactive metabolites produced along both pathways are capable of forming protein adducts and are thought to be involved in TCE-induced liver and kidney damage. Similarly, in situ bioactivation of TCE and subsequent binding of metabolites may be one mechanism by which TCE acts as a reproductive toxicant. Cysteine-conjugate beta-lyase (beta-lyase) bioactivates the TCE metabolite dichlorovinyl cysteine (DCVC) to a reactive intermediate that is capable of binding cellular macromolecules. In the present study, Western blot analysis indicated that the soluble form of beta-lyase, but not the mitochondrial form, was present in the epididymis and efferent ducts. Both forms of beta-lyase were detected in the kidney. When rats were dosed with DCVC, no protein adducts were detected in the epididymis or efferent ducts, although adducts were present in the proximal tubule of the kidney. Trichloroethylene can also be metabolized and form protein adducts through a cytochrome p450-mediated pathway. Western blot analysis detected the presence of cytochrome p450 2E1 (CYP2E1) in the efferent ducts. Immunoreactive proteins were localized to efferent duct and corpus epididymis epithelia. Metabolism of TCE was demonstrated in vitro using microsomes prepared from untreated rats. Metabolism was inhibited 77% when efferent duct microsomes were preincubated with an antibody to CYP2E1. Dichloroacetyl adducts were detected in epididymal and efferent duct microsomes exposed in vitro to TCE. Results from the present study indicate that the cytochrome p450-dependent formation of reactive intermediates and the subsequent covalent binding of cellular proteins may be involved in the male reproductive toxicity of TCE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelley Brown DuTeaux
- Department of Environmental Toxicology, University of California, Davis, California 95616, USA
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Ford WCL, Northstone K, Farrow A. Male employment in some printing trades is associated with prolonged time to conception. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2002; 25:295-300. [PMID: 12270027 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2605.2002.00366.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
We investigated whether male employment in defined occupational groups was associated with decreased fecundity as revealed by prolonged time to conception. The analysis was carried out on data from questionnaires completed over a period of 21 months by 4808 couples with a planned pregnancy and collected as part of the Avon Longitudinal Study of Pregnancy and Childhood. Previously logistic regression had identified nine non-occupational factors associated with taking >6 or >12 months to conceive and this model was used to analyse the association of the fathers ever having worked in defined occupational groups with delayed conception. If the man had worked in 'Printing and related trades' (OPCS code 56), couples had a statistically significantly increased odds ratio (OR) of taking >6 [1.86 (1.21, 2.94)] or >12 months [1.96 (1.13, 3.39)] to conceive [OR (95% confidence intervals)] after adjustment for non-occupational factors. The association with time to conception was stronger in the subgroup 'Other printing related trades' (OPCS code 569) but no statistically significant associations after adjustment for other factors were found for other printing jobs.
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Affiliation(s)
- W C L Ford
- Division of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
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Hales BF, Robaire B. Paternal exposure to drugs and environmental chemicals: effects on progeny outcome. JOURNAL OF ANDROLOGY 2001; 22:927-36. [PMID: 11700855 DOI: 10.1002/j.1939-4640.2001.tb03431.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- B F Hales
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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