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Bielfeld AP, Schwarze JE, Verpillat P, Lispi M, Fischer R, Hayward B, Chuderland D, D'Hooghe T, Krussel JS. Effectiveness of recombinant human FSH: recombinant human LH combination treatment versus recombinant human FSH alone for assisted reproductive technology in women aged 35-40 years. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 48:103725. [PMID: 38593745 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103725] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION According to real-world data, is recombinant human FSH (r-hFSH) combined with recombinant human LH (r-hLH) or r-hFSH alone more effective for women of advanced maternal age (AMA) in terms of live birth? DESIGN Non-interventional study comparing the effectiveness of r-hFSH and recombinant r-hLH (2:1 ratio) versus r-hFSH alone for ovarian stimulation during ART treatment in women aged 35-40 years, using real-world data from the Deutsches IVF-Register. RESULTS Overall clinical pregnancy (29.8%, 95% CI 28.2 to 31.6 versus 27.8%, 95% CI 26.5 to 29.2) and live birth (20.3%, 95% CI 18.7 to 21.8 versus 18.0%, 95% CI 16.6 to 19.4) rates were not significantly different between the combined r-hFSH and r-hLH group and the r-hFSH alone group (P = 0.269 and P = 0.092, respectively). Treatment effect was significantly higher for combined r-hFSH and r-hLH compared with r-hFSH alone for clinical pregnancy (33.1%, 95% CI 31.0 to 35.0 versus 28.5%, 95% CI 26.6 to 30.4; P = 0.001, not adjusted for multiplicity) and live birth (22.5%, 95% CI 20.5 to 24.2 versus 19.4%, 95% CI 17.6 to 20.9; P = 0.014, not adjusted for multiplicity) in a post-hoc analysis of women with five to 14 oocytes retrieved (used as a surrogate for normal ovarian reserve), highlighting the potential benefits of combined r-hFSH and r-hLH for ovarian stimulation in women aged 35-40 years with normal ovarian reserve. CONCLUSIONS Women of AMA with normal ovarian response benefit from treatment with combined r-hFSH and r-hLH in a 2:1 ratio versus r-hFSH alone in terms of live birth rate. The effectiveness of treatments is best assessed by RCTs; however, real-world data are valuable for examining the effectiveness of fertility treatment, especially among patient groups that are not well represented in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra P Bielfeld
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, UniKiD Center for Reproductive Medicine (UniKiD), Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Juan-Enrique Schwarze
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, Darmstadt, 64293, Germany.
| | - Patrice Verpillat
- Global Epidemiology, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, Darmstadt, 64293, Germany
| | - Monica Lispi
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, Darmstadt, 64293, Germany; PhD School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Endocrinology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Viale A. Allegri 9. 42121, Emilia-Romagna, Italy
| | | | - Brooke Hayward
- EMD Serono, One Technology Place, Rockland, Massachusetts, 02370, USA, an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Dana Chuderland
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, Darmstadt, 64293, Germany
| | - Thomas D'Hooghe
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, Darmstadt, 64293, Germany; Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, KU Leuven, Oude Markt 13, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University Medical School, 333 Cedar St, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Jan-Steffan Krussel
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, UniKiD Center for Reproductive Medicine (UniKiD), Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany
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Bielfeld AP, Schwarze JE, Verpillat P, Lispi M, Fischer R, Hayward B, Chuderland D, D'Hooghe T, Krussel JS. Effectiveness of recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone (r-hFSH): recombinant human luteinizing hormone versus r-hFSH alone in assisted reproductive technology treatment cycles among women aged 35-40 years: A German database study. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2023; 89:102350. [PMID: 37320996 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2023.102350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
This non-interventional study compared the effectiveness of recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone (r-hFSH) and recombinant human luteinizing hormone (r-hLH) (2:1 ratio) versus r-hFSH alone for ovarian stimulation (OS) during assisted reproductive technology treatment in women aged 35-40 years, using real-world data from the Deutsches IVF-Register (D·I·R). Numerically higher clinical pregnancy (29.8% [95% CI 28.2, 31.6] vs. 27.8% [26.5, 29.2]) and live birth (20.3% [18.7, 21.8] vs. 18.0% [16.6, 19.4]) rates were observed with r-hFSH:r-hLH versus r-hFSH alone. The treatment effect was consistently higher for r-hFSH:r-hLH compared with r-hFSH alone in terms of clinical pregnancy (relative risk [RR] 1.16 [1.05, 1.26]) and live birth (RR 1.16 [1.02, 1.31]) in a post-hoc analysis of women with 5-14 oocytes retrieved (used as a surrogate for normal ovarian reserve), highlighting the potential benefits of r-hFSH:r-hLH for OS in women aged 35-40 years with normal ovarian reserve.
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Affiliation(s)
- A P Bielfeld
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, UniKiD Center for Reproductive Medicine (UniKiD), Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany.
| | - J E Schwarze
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, Darmstadt, 64293, Germany.
| | - P Verpillat
- Global Epidemiology, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, Darmstadt, 64293, Germany.
| | - M Lispi
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, Darmstadt, 64293, Germany; PhD School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Endocrinology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Viale A. Allegri 9. 42121, Emilia-Romagna, Italy.
| | - R Fischer
- Fertility Centre Hamburg, 20095, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - B Hayward
- EMD Serono, One Technology Place, Rockland, MA 02370, USA, and affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany.
| | - D Chuderland
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, Darmstadt, 64293, Germany.
| | - T D'Hooghe
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Frankfurter Strasse 250, Darmstadt, 64293, Germany; Department of Development and Regeneration, Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, KU Leuven, Oude Markt 13, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University Medical School, 333 Cedar St, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.
| | - J S Krussel
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, UniKiD Center for Reproductive Medicine (UniKiD), Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University, Universitätsstraße 1, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany.
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Setti AS, Braga DPDAF, Iaconelli A, Borges E. Improving Implantation Rate in 2nd ICSI Cycle through Ovarian Stimulation with FSH and LH in GNRH Antagonist Regimen. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE GINECOLOGIA E OBSTETRÍCIA 2021; 43:749-758. [PMID: 34784631 PMCID: PMC10183840 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1736306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether patients with a previous recombinant follicle stimulating hormone (rFSH)-stimulated cycle would have improved outcomes with rFSH + recombinant luteinizing hormone (rLH) stimulation in the following cycle. METHODS For the present retrospective case-control study, 228 cycles performed in 114 patients undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) between 2015 and 2018 in an in vitro fertilization (IVF) center were evaluated. Controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) was achieved with rFSH (Gonal-f, Serono, Geneva, Switzerland) in the first ICSI cycle (rFSH group), and with rFSH and rLH (Pergoveris, Merck Serono S.p.A, Bari, Italy) in the second cycle (rFSH + rLH group). The ICSI outcomes were compared among the groups. RESULTS Higher estradiol levels, oocyte yield, day-3 high-quality embryos rate and implantation rate, and a lower miscarriage rate were observed in the rFSH + rLH group compared with the rFSH group. In patients < 35 years old, the implantation rate was higher in the rFSH + rLH group compared with the rFSH group. In patients ≥ 35 years old, higher estradiol levels, oocyte yield, day-3 high-quality embryos rate, and implantation rate were observed in the rFSH + rLH group. In patients with ≤ 4 retrieved oocytes, oocyte yield, mature oocytes rate, normal cleavage speed, implantation rate, and miscarriage rate were improved in the rFSH + rLH group. In patients with ≥ 5 retrieved oocytes, higher estradiol levels, oocyte yield, and implantation rate were observed in the rFSH + rLH group. CONCLUSION Ovarian stimulation with luteinizing hormone (LH) supplementation results in higher implantation rates, independent of maternal age and response to COS when compared with previous cycles stimulated with rFSH only. Improvements were also observed for ICSI outcomes and miscarriage after stratification by age and retrieved oocytes.
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Conforti A, Esteves SC, Humaidan P, Longobardi S, D'Hooghe T, Orvieto R, Vaiarelli A, Cimadomo D, Rienzi L, Ubaldi FM, Zullo F, Alviggi C. Recombinant human luteinizing hormone co-treatment in ovarian stimulation for assisted reproductive technology in women of advanced reproductive age: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:91. [PMID: 34154604 PMCID: PMC8215738 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00759-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Several studies suggest that luteinizing hormone (LH) could improve IVF outcome in women of advanced reproductive age by optimizing androgen production. In this review, we assessed the role of recombinant-human LH (r-hLH) and recombinant human follicle stimulating hormone (r-hFSH) co-treatment in ovarian stimulation for assisted reproductive technology in women of advanced reproductive age candidates for assisted reproduction. MATERIAL AND METHODS Using a preregistered protocol we systematically searched Medline/PubMed, Scopus and the ISI Web of Science databases to identify randomized controlled trials in which r-hFSH monotherapy protocols were compared with r-hFSH/r-hLH co-treatment in women ≥35 years undergoing fresh IVF cycles. We calculated the pooled odds ratio (OR) for dichotomous data and the weight mean difference (WMD) for continuous data with an associated 95% confidence interval (CI). The meta-analyses were conducted using the random-effect model. P values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Subgroup analyses of all primary and secondary outcomes were performed only in women aged 35-40 years. RESULTS Twelve studies were identified. In women aged between 35 and 40 years, r-hFSH/r-hLH co-treatment was associated with higher clinical pregnancy rates (OR 1.45, CI 95% 1.05-2.00, I2 = 0%, P = 0.03) and implantation rates (OR 1.49, CI 95% 1.10-2.01, I2 = 13%, P = 0.01) versus r-hFSH monotherapy. Fewer oocytes were retrieved in r-hFSH/r-hLH-treated patients than in r-hFSH-treated patients both in women aged ≥35 years (WMD -0.82 CI 95% -1.40 to - 0.24, I2 = 88%, P = 0.005) and in those aged between 35 and 40 years (WMD -1.03, CI - 1.89 to - 0.17, I2 = 0%, P = 0.02). The number of metaphase II oocytes, miscarriage rates and live birth rates did not differ between the two groups of women overall or in subgroup analysis. CONCLUSION Although more oocytes were retrieved in patients who underwent r-hFSH monotherapy, this meta-analysis suggests that r-hFSH/r-hLH co-treatment improves clinical pregnancy and implantation rates in women between 35 and 40 years of age undergoing ovarian stimulation for assisted reproduction technology. However, more RCTs using narrower age ranges in advanced age women are warranted to corroborate these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Conforti
- University of Naples Federico II, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, Brazil
- Department of Surgery, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Peter Humaidan
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive, Denmark
| | | | - Thomas D'Hooghe
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences Group, KU Leuven (University of Leuven), Merck, Leuven, Belgium
- KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Raoul Orvieto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan, Israel
- The Tarnesby-Tarnowski Chair for Family Planning and Fertility Regulation, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Alberto Vaiarelli
- Clinica Valle Giulia, G.EN.E.R.A. Centers for Reproductive Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Danilo Cimadomo
- Clinica Valle Giulia, G.EN.E.R.A. Centers for Reproductive Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Rienzi
- Clinica Valle Giulia, G.EN.E.R.A. Centers for Reproductive Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Filippo Maria Ubaldi
- Clinica Valle Giulia, G.EN.E.R.A. Centers for Reproductive Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Fulvio Zullo
- University of Naples Federico II, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Alviggi
- University of Naples Federico II, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Abu-Musa A, Haahr T, Humaidan P. Novel Physiology and Definition of Poor Ovarian Response; Clinical Recommendations. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21062110. [PMID: 32204404 PMCID: PMC7139860 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21062110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Poor ovarian response (POR) to controlled ovarian stimulation (OS) presents a major challenge in assisted reproduction. The Bologna criteria represented the first serious attempt to set clear criteria for the definition of POR. However, the Bologna criteria were questioned because of the persistent heterogeneity among POR patients and the inability to provide management strategies. Based on these facts, a more recent classification, the POSEIDON (Patient-Oriented Strategies Encompassing IndividualizeD Oocyte Number) classification, was developed to provide a homogeneous and refined definition of POR that significantly reduces the heterogeneity of the Bologna criteria definition of POR and helps in the clinical handling and counseling of patients. In this review, we discuss the impact of the POSEIDON classification on the clinical management of patients with POR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Abu-Musa
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon
- Correspondence:
| | - Thor Haahr
- The Fertility Clinic Skive Regional Hospital, 7800 Skive, Denmark; (T.H.); (P.H.)
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Peter Humaidan
- The Fertility Clinic Skive Regional Hospital, 7800 Skive, Denmark; (T.H.); (P.H.)
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
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Conforti A, Esteves SC, Di Rella F, Strina I, De Rosa P, Fiorenza A, Zullo F, De Placido G, Alviggi C. The role of recombinant LH in women with hypo-response to controlled ovarian stimulation: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2019; 17:18. [PMID: 30728019 PMCID: PMC6366097 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-019-0460-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the role of recombinant human LH supplementation in women with hypo-response to ovarian stimulation. METHODS We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective clinical trials in which recombinant FSH monotherapy protocols were compared with LH-supplemented protocols in hypo-responders. A search was conducted of the Scopus, MEDLINE databases without time or language restrictions. Primary outcome was clinical pregnancy rate. RESULTS Significantly higher clinical pregnancy rates (odds ratio: 2.03, P = 0.003), implantation rates (odds ratio: 2.62, P = 0.004) and number of oocytes retrieved (weight mean differences: 1.98, P = 0.03) were observed in hypo-responders supplemented with recombinant LH versus hypo-responders who underwent FSH monotherapy. No differences in terms of mature oocytes or miscarriage rates were found between the two groups. CONCLUSION In conclusion, our analysis confirms that women with a hypo-response to exogenous gonadotropins might benefit from LH supplementation. However, more trials are required before a definitive conclusion can be drawn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Conforti
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Francesca Di Rella
- Department of Senology, Medical Oncology, National Cancer Institute, IRCCS "Fondazione G.Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Ida Strina
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Pasquale De Rosa
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessia Fiorenza
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Fulvio Zullo
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe De Placido
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Alviggi
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Istituto per l'Endocrinologia e l'Oncologia Sperimentale (IEOS) Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy
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Mohanan A, Plakkot B, Kanakkaparambil R. Biochemical constituents and steroid hormones in follicular fluid from antral follicles of cross-bred Malabari goats of Kerala. BIOL RHYTHM RES 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/09291016.2018.1564574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Abhina Mohanan
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Thrissur, India
| | - Bhuvana Plakkot
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Thrissur, India
| | - Raji Kanakkaparambil
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Thrissur, India
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Conforti A, Esteves SC, Cimadomo D, Vaiarelli A, Di Rella F, Ubaldi FM, Zullo F, De Placido G, Alviggi C. Management of Women With an Unexpected Low Ovarian Response to Gonadotropin. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:387. [PMID: 31316461 PMCID: PMC6610322 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
POSEIDON groups 1 and 2 patients respond poorly (<4 oocytes retrieved) or sub-optimally (4-9 oocytes retrieved) to gonadotropin stimulation despite the presence of adequate ovarian parameters, which negatively affect their cumulative chances of delivering a baby using Assisted Reproductive Technology. A polygenic trait involving gonadotropins and/or their receptors seems to be the primary pathophysiology mechanism explaining this phenomenon. The clinical management is mainly focused on maximizing oocyte yield as to increase the likelihood of having at least one euploid embryo for transfer. Indices such as FORT (follicle output rate) and FOI (follicle-to-oocyte index) may be used to determine if the ovarian reserve was properly explored during a previous ovarian stimulation. Testing for the presence of common polymorphisms affecting gonadotropins and/or their receptors can also be considered to identify patients at risk of hypo-response. An individualized estimation of the minimum number of oocytes needed to obtain at least one euploid embryo can assist counseling and treatment planning. Among currently existing pharmacological interventions, use of recombinant FSH in preference over urinary gonadotropin preparations, FSH dosage increase, and use of rLH supplementation may be considered -alone or combined- for optimally managing POSEIDON's groups 1 and 2 patients. However, given the recent introduction of the POSEIDON criteria, there is still a lack of studies examining the role of interventions specifically to patients classified as groups 1 and 2, thus making it an area for open research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Conforti
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- *Correspondence: Alessandro Conforti
| | - Sandro C. Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, Brazil
- Department of Surgery, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Danilo Cimadomo
- GENERA, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Vaiarelli
- GENERA, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Di Rella
- Medical Oncology, Department of Senology, National Cancer Institute, IRCCS Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Fulvio Zullo
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe De Placido
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Alviggi
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Alviggi C, Conforti A, Esteves SC, Andersen CY, Bosch E, Bühler K, Ferraretti AP, De Placido G, Mollo A, Fischer R, Humaidan P. Recombinant luteinizing hormone supplementation in assisted reproductive technology: a systematic review. Fertil Steril 2018; 109:644-664. [PMID: 29653717 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2017] [Revised: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 01/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the role of recombinant human LH (r-hLH) supplementation in ovarian stimulation for ART in specific subgroups of patients. DESIGN Systematic review. SETTING Centers for reproductive care. PATIENT(S) Six populations were investigated: 1) women with a hyporesponse to recombinant human FSH (r-hFSH) monotherapy; 2) women at an advanced reproductive age; 3) women cotreated with the use of a GnRH antagonist; 4) women with profoundly suppressed LH levels after the administration of GnRH agonists; 5) normoresponder women to prevent ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome; and 6) women with a "poor response" to ovarian stimulation, including those who met the European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology Bologna criteria. INTERVENTION(S) Systematic review. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Implantation rate, number of oocytes retrieved, live birth rate, ongoing pregnancy rate, fertilization rate, and number of metaphase II oocytes. RESULT(S) Recombinant hLH supplementation appears to be beneficial in two subgroups of patients: 1) women with adequate prestimulation ovarian reserve parameters and an unexpected hyporesponse to r-hFSH monotherapy; and 2) women 36-39 years of age. Indeed, there is no evidence that r-hLH is beneficial in young (<35 y) normoresponders cotreated with the use of a GnRH antagonist. The use of r-hLH supplementation in women with suppressed endogenous LH levels caused by GnRH analogues and in poor responders remains controversial, whereas the use of r-hLH supplementation to prevent the development of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome warrants further investigation. CONCLUSION(S) Recombinant hLH can be proposed for hyporesponders and women 36-39 years of age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Alviggi
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Conforti
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- Androfert, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Claus Yding Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ernesto Bosch
- Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad, Valencia, Spain
| | - Klaus Bühler
- Center for Gynecology, Endocrinology, and Reproductive Medicine, Ulm and Stuttgart, Germany
| | | | - Giuseppe De Placido
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Mollo
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Peter Humaidan
- Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive, Denmark, and Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Lehert P, Kolibianakis EM, Venetis CA, Schertz J, Saunders H, Arriagada P, Copt S, Tarlatzis B. Recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone (r-hFSH) plus recombinant luteinizing hormone versus r-hFSH alone for ovarian stimulation during assisted reproductive technology: systematic review and meta-analysis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2014; 12:17. [PMID: 24555766 PMCID: PMC4015269 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-12-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2013] [Accepted: 02/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The potential benefit of adding recombinant human luteinizing hormone (r-hLH) to recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone (r-hFSH) during ovarian stimulation is a subject of debate, although there is evidence that it may benefit certain subpopulations, e.g. poor responders. METHODS A systematic review and a meta-analysis were performed. Three databases (MEDLINE, Embase and CENTRAL) were searched (from 1990 to 2011). Prospective, parallel-, comparative-group randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in women aged 18-45 years undergoing in vitro fertilization, intracytoplasmic sperm injection or both, treated with gonadotrophin-releasing hormone analogues and r-hFSH plus r-hLH or r-hFSH alone were included. The co-primary endpoints were number of oocytes retrieved and clinical pregnancy rate. Analyses were conducted for the overall population and for prospectively identified patient subgroups, including patients with poor ovarian response (POR). RESULTS In total, 40 RCTs (6443 patients) were included in the analysis. Data on the number of oocytes retrieved were reported in 41 studies and imputed in two studies. Therefore, data were available from 43 studies (r-hFSH plus r-hLH, n=3113; r-hFSH, n=3228) in the intention-to-treat (ITT) population (all randomly allocated patients, including imputed data). Overall, no significant difference in the number of oocytes retrieved was found between the r-hFSH plus r-hLH and r-hFSH groups (weighted mean difference -0.03; 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.41 to 0.34). However, in poor responders, significantly more oocytes were retrieved with r-hFSH plus r-hLH versus r-hFSH alone (n=1077; weighted mean difference +0.75 oocytes; 95% CI 0.14-1.36). Significantly higher clinical pregnancy rates were observed with r-hFSH plus r-hLH versus r-hFSH alone in the overall population analysed in this review (risk ratio [RR] 1.09; 95% CI 1.01-1.18) and in poor responders (n=1179; RR 1.30; 95% CI 1.01-1.67; ITT population); the observed difference was more pronounced in poor responders. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that there is a relative increase in the clinical pregnancy rates of 9% in the overall population and 30% in poor responders. In conclusion, this meta-analysis suggests that the addition of r-hLH to r-hFSH may be beneficial for women with POR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Lehert
- Faculty of Economics, Université Catholique de Louvain (UCL Mons), 7000 Mons, Belgium
- Faculty of Medicine, the University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3010, Victoria, Australia
| | - Efstratios M Kolibianakis
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Christos A Venetis
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Joan Schertz
- Fertility Global Clinical Development Unit, EMD Serono, Inc, Rockland, MA 02370, USA (an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Helen Saunders
- Formerly Merck Serono S.A, Geneva, Switzerland (an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
- Preglem SA, Chemin du Pré-Fleuri 3, 1228 Plan-les-Ouates, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Pablo Arriagada
- Formerly Merck Serono S.A, Geneva, Switzerland (an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
- Preglem SA, Chemin du Pré-Fleuri 3, 1228 Plan-les-Ouates, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Samuel Copt
- Formerly Merck Serono S.A, Geneva, Switzerland (an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
- Biosensors, rue de Lausanne 31, 1100 Morges, Switzerland
| | - Basil Tarlatzis
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
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Lan KC, Chang SY, Huang FJ, Lin HJ, Lin CY, Huang KE, Kang HY. Analysis of androgen receptor and anti-Müllerian hormone pathways in human granulosa cells under luteinizing hormone treatment. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2013; 11:11. [PMID: 23433069 PMCID: PMC3599510 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-11-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2012] [Accepted: 02/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this study was to determine the gene expression profiles of the androgen/androgen receptor (AR) and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH)/ Sry-related high-mobility group box 9 (SOX9) pathways in granulosa-luteal cells from patients undergoing standard in vitro fertilization (IVF) with or without recombinant luteinizing hormone (rLH) therapy. METHODS Levels of reproductive hormones in the pre-ovulatory follicular fluid and the expression levels of LHR (luteinizing hormone receptor), AR, SOX9, AMH, AR-associated protein 54(ARA54)and ARA70 were determined in granulosa-luteal cells by real-time reverse-transcription PCR. The effects of androgen and rLH treatments on AR and AMH expression levels were also tested in vitro using HO23 cells. RESULTS We collected 35 an 70 granulosa cell samples from patients cycled with and without rLH supplementation, respectively. The clinical outcomes were similar in patients who received rLH therapy and those who did not, though the pre-ovulatory follicular fluid levels of androstenedione, testosterone, and estradiol were significantly higher and progesterone was lower in the rLH supplementation group. Moreover, granulosa-luteal cell mRNA levels of LHR, AR, AMH, and SOX9 were significantly higher in the rLH supplementation group relative to the group that did not receive rLH supplementation. In addition, we observed significant correlations between LHR and AR mRNA expression and among AR, AMH, and SOX9 mRNA expression in granulosa-luteal cells from patients undergoing standard IVF treatment. CONCLUSIONS Increased expression of LHR, AR, AMH, and SOX9 is characteristic of granulosa-luteal cells from IVF/ intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) patients receiving rLH supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo-Chung Lan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Center for Menopause and Reproductive Medicine Research, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | | | - Fu-Jen Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Jung Lin
- Center for Menopause and Reproductive Medicine Research, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Yuang Lin
- College of Medicine, China Medical University, Clinical Immunology Center, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ko-En Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Center for Menopause and Reproductive Medicine Research, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Yo Kang
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Center for Menopause and Reproductive Medicine Research, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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12
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Lisi F, Carfagna P, Oliva MM, Rago R, Lisi R, Poverini R, Manna C, Vaquero E, Caserta D, Raparelli V, Marci R, Moscarini M. Pretreatment with myo-inositol in non polycystic ovary syndrome patients undergoing multiple follicular stimulation for IVF: a pilot study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2012; 10:52. [PMID: 22823904 PMCID: PMC3416732 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-10-52] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2012] [Accepted: 07/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aim of this pilot study is to examine the effects of myo-inositol administration on ovarian response and oocytes and embryos quality in non PolyCystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) patients undergoing multiple follicular stimulation and in vitro insemination by conventional in vitro fertilization or by intracytoplasmic sperm injection. METHODS One hundred non-PCOS women aged <40 years and with basal FSH <10 mUI/ml were down-regulated with triptorelin acetate from the mid-luteal phase for 2 weeks, before starting the stimulation protocol for oocytes recovery. All patients received rFSH, at a starting dose of 150 IU for 6 days. The dose was subsequently adjusted according to individual response. Group B (n=50) received myo-inositol and folic acid for 3 months before the stimulation period and then during the stimulation itself. Group A (n-50) received only folic acid as additional treatment in the 3 months before and through treatment. RESULTS Total length of the stimulation was similar between the two groups. Nevertheless, total amount of gonadotropins used to reach follicular maturation was found significantly lower in group B. In addition, the number of oocytes retrieved was significantly reduced in the group pretreated with myo-inositol. Clinical pregnancy and implantation rate were not significantly different in the two groups. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that the addition of myo-inositol to folic acid in non PCOS-patients undergoing multiple follicular stimulation for in-vitro fertilization may reduce the numbers of mature oocytes and the dosage of rFSH whilst maintaining clinical pregnancy rate. Further, a trend in favor of increased incidence of implantation in the group pretreated with myo-inositol was apparent in this study. Further investigations are warranted to clarify this pharmacological approach, and the benefit it may hold for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franco Lisi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Research, Clinica Villa Mafalda, Rome, Italy
| | - Piero Carfagna
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Research, Clinica Villa Mafalda, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Rocco Rago
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Research, Clinica Villa Mafalda, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosella Lisi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Research, Clinica Villa Mafalda, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Poverini
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Research, Clinica Villa Mafalda, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Manna
- GENESIS Center for Reproductive Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Vaquero
- Department of Surgery, Tor Vergata - University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Donatella Caserta
- Department of Women Health and Territorial Medicine, Sapienza - University of Rome, Sant’Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Raparelli
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza - University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Marci
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Advanced Therapies, Section of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Massimo Moscarini
- Department of Women Health and Territorial Medicine, Sapienza - University of Rome, Sant’Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
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Caserta D, Lisi F, Marci R, Ciardo F, Fazi A, Lisi R, Moscarini M. Does supplementation with recombinant luteinizing hormone prevent ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome in down regulated patients undergoing recombinant follicle stimulating hormone multiple follicular stimulation for IVF/ET and reduces cancellation rate for high risk of hyperstimulation? Gynecol Endocrinol 2011; 27:862-6. [PMID: 21391759 DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2010.544133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of recombinant luteinizing hormone (rLH) supplementation in late follicular phase in multiple follicular stimulation with recombinant follicle stimulating hormone (rFSH) in Triptoreline down-regulated patients undergoing IVF, on preventing clinical OHSS and cycles cancellation for OHSS risk. Nine hundred ninety-nine patients aged ≤ 40 with basal FSH ≤ 12 mUI/Ml were down-regulated before starting rFSH stimulation for oocytes recovery. Patients were allocated in two groups: (A) (501 patients) treated with 150 IU of rFSH eventually adjusting rFSH dosage day 7 of stimulation until recombinant human chorionic gonadotropin (rhCG) administration, (B) (498 patients) treated with 150 IU of rFSH and 75 IU of rLH since day 7 of stimulation until rhCG administration and adjusting rFSH at the same day. E2 the day of rhCG was higher in group B (p < 0.0001); number of cycles cancelled in group A (42/8.3%) for risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) was higher than group B (12/2.4%) (p < 0.000001). We observed an increase in pregnancies in group B compared with group A (16.8% vs 11.9%) (p < 0.05) and we observed also a larger number of clinical OHSS in group A than in group B (p < 0.05).
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Caserta
- Department of Woman Health and Territory's Medicine, University of Rome Sapienza, S. Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy.
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14
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Matorras R, Prieto B, Exposito A, Mendoza R, Crisol L, Herranz P, Burgués S. Mid-follicular LH supplementation in women aged 35-39 years undergoing ICSI cycles: a randomized controlled study. Reprod Biomed Online 2011; 22 Suppl 1:S43-51. [PMID: 21575849 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(11)60008-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2009] [Revised: 03/17/2009] [Accepted: 07/06/2009] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This single-centre, randomized, parallel group, comparative study aimed to identify potential benefits of mid-follicular recombinant human LH (r-HLH) supplementation in women aged 35-39 years undergoing ovarian stimulation for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). The main endpoint was the number of metaphase II oocytes retrieved. After pituitary suppression with a gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist, ovarian stimulation was initiated with recombinant human FSH (r-HFSH; 300-450 IU/day). On stimulation day 6, patients were randomized to receive r-HFSH alone or r-HFSH + r-HLH (r-HLH 150 IU/day) for the remainder of the stimulation period. Final follicular maturation was triggered with 250 μg of recombinant human chorionic gonadotrophin. After assessing oocyte nuclear maturity, oocyte were fertilized by ICSI and afterwards embryo quality was analyzed. Of the 131 women enrolled, 68 were allocated to r-HFSH alone and 63 to r-HFSH + r-HLH. No significant differences were observed in markers of either oocyte or embryo quality or quantity. However, higher rates of implantation and live birth per started cycle were observed with r-HLH supplementation than with r-HFSH alone. Although additional large studies are required to further investigate these findings, r-HLH supplementation for women aged 35-39 years undergoing ICSI is recommended as it may have a beneficial action on implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Matorras
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital de Cruces, País Vasco University, Baracaldo, Vizcaya, Spain.
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15
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Devesa M, Martínez F, Coroleu B, Tur R, González C, Rodríguez I, Barri PN. Poor prognosis for ovarian response to stimulation: results of a randomised trial comparing the flare-up GnRH agonist protocol vs. the antagonist protocol. Gynecol Endocrinol 2010; 26:509-15. [PMID: 20196635 DOI: 10.3109/09513591003632191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the efficacy of the flare-up agonist and the antagonist protocols in patients with poor prognosis for ovarian response. METHODS A randomised trial was conducted on two hundred and twenty-one women considered as having poor prognosis for ovarian response to stimulation, based on previous cycles or clinical criteria. All women were prospectively randomised into two groups of treatment (flare-up group and antagonist group) by computer-assisted randomisation in a 1:1 ratio. The main outcome measure was clinical pregnancy rate. RESULTS Groups were homogeneous in age and baseline characteristics. Duration of stimulation, gonadotropin consumption, number of oocytes retrieved and number and quality of embryos transferred did not differ significantly between the groups. E(2) level the day of hCG administration was significantly higher in the flare-up group. Pregnancy rates per started cycle were 15% in the flare-up group and 14.1% in the antagonist group. Cancellation rates were 12.5% in the flare-up group and 16.3% in the antagonist group. None of these differences reached statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS No statistically significant differences were observed between the two protocols regarding clinical pregnancy rates. In patients with poor prognosis for ovarian response, the flare-up agonist and the antagonist protocols were comparable regarding clinical pregnancy rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Devesa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institut Universitari Dexeus, Barcelona, Spain.
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16
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Matorras R, Prieto B, Exposito A, Mendoza R, Crisol L, Herranz P, Burgués S. Mid-follicular LH supplementation in women aged 35-39 years undergoing ICSI cycles: a randomized controlled study. Reprod Biomed Online 2010; 19:879-87. [PMID: 20031032 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2009.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This single-centre, randomized, parallel group, comparative study aimed to identify potential benefits of mid-follicular recombinant human LH (r-HLH) supplementation in women aged 35-39 years undergoing ovarian stimulation for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). The main endpoint was the number of metaphase II oocytes retrieved. After pituitary suppression with a gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist, ovarian stimulation was initiated with recombinant human FSH (r-HFSH; 300-450 IU/day). On stimulation day 6, patients were randomized to receive r-HFSH alone or r-HFSH + r-HLH (r-HLH 150 IU/day) for the remainder of the stimulation period. Final follicular maturation was triggered with 250 mug of recombinant human chorionic gonadotrophin. After assessing oocyte nuclear maturity, oocyte were fertilized by ICSI and afterwards embryo quality was analyzed. Of the 131 women enrolled, 68 were allocated to r-HFSH alone and 63 to r-HFSH + r-HLH. No significant differences were observed in markers of either oocyte or embryo quality or quantity. However, higher rates of implantation and live birth per started cycle were observed with r-HLH supplementation than with r-HFSH alone. Although additional large studies are required to further investigate these findings, r-HLH supplementation for women aged 35-39 years undergoing ICSI is recommended as it may have a beneficial action on implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Matorras
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital de Cruces, País Vasco University, Baracaldo, Vizcaya, Spain.
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17
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Revelli A, Piane LD, Casano S, Molinari E, Massobrio M, Rinaudo P. Follicular fluid content and oocyte quality: from single biochemical markers to metabolomics. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2009; 7:40. [PMID: 19413899 PMCID: PMC2685803 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-7-40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 384] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2008] [Accepted: 05/04/2009] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The assessment of oocyte quality in human in vitro fertilization (IVF) is getting increasing attention from embryologists. Oocyte selection and the identification of the best oocytes, in fact, would help to limit embryo overproduction and to improve the results of oocyte cryostorage programs. Follicular fluid (FF) is easily available during oocyte pick-up and theorically represents an optimal source on non-invasive biochemical predictors of oocyte quality. Unfortunately, however, the studies aiming to find a good molecular predictor of oocyte quality in FF were not able to identify substances that could be used as reliable markers of oocyte competence to fertilization, embryo development and pregnancy. In the last years, a well definite trend toward passing from the research of single molecular markers to more complex techniques that study all metabolites of FF has been observed. The metabolomic approach is a powerful tool to study biochemical predictors of oocyte quality in FF, but its application in this area is still at the beginning. This review provides an overview of the current knowledge about the biochemical predictors of oocyte quality in FF, describing both the results coming from studies on single biochemical markers and those deriving from the most recent studies of metabolomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Revelli
- Reproductive Medicine and IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrical and Gynecological Sciences, University of Torino, Via Ventimiglia 3, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Luisa Delle Piane
- Reproductive Medicine and IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrical and Gynecological Sciences, University of Torino, Via Ventimiglia 3, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Simona Casano
- Reproductive Medicine and IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrical and Gynecological Sciences, University of Torino, Via Ventimiglia 3, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Emanuela Molinari
- Reproductive Medicine and IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrical and Gynecological Sciences, University of Torino, Via Ventimiglia 3, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Marco Massobrio
- Reproductive Medicine and IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrical and Gynecological Sciences, University of Torino, Via Ventimiglia 3, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Paolo Rinaudo
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, USA
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&NA;. Lutropin alfa: a guide to its use in female infertility. DRUGS & THERAPY PERSPECTIVES 2009. [DOI: 10.2165/0042310-200925050-00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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Huddleston HG, Jackson KV, Doyle JO, Racowsky C. hMG increases the yield of mature oocytes and excellent-quality embryos in patients with a previous cycle having a high incidence of oocyte immaturity. Fertil Steril 2009; 92:946-949. [PMID: 19356754 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.02.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2008] [Revised: 01/29/2009] [Accepted: 02/12/2009] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
In a selected group of patients with >20% oocyte immaturity during an IVF cycle with FSH alone, the addition of hMG to the stimulation protocol results in a higher yield of mature oocytes and excellent-quality embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather G Huddleston
- Center for Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California.
| | - Katharine V Jackson
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Joseph O Doyle
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Catherine Racowsky
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Prapas N, Tavaniotou A, Panagiotidis Y, Prapa S, Kasapi E, Goudakou M, Papatheodorou A, Prapas Y. Low-dose human chorionic gonadotropin during the proliferative phase may adversely affect endometrial receptivity in oocyte recipients. Gynecol Endocrinol 2009; 25:53-9. [PMID: 19165663 DOI: 10.1080/09513590802360769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The effect of low-dose human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) administration in the proliferative phase of oocyte recipients was investigated in a prospective randomized trial. Sibling oocytes from the same donor were shared at random among two different recipients. In group I oocyte recipients received 750 IU of hCG every three days concomitant to endometrial preparation with estradiol until hCG injection to the donor, whereas in group II recipients received no hCG during endometrial priming with estradiol. Endometrial thickness was significantly lower in group I compared with group II, although similar endometrial thickness was detected during the mock cycle. Pregnancy rates were significantly lower in group I than in group II (13.6% vs. 45.4%, p<0.05). Implantation rates were also significantly lower in group I (1.7% vs. 22.4%, p<0.01). The study was discontinued prematurely for ethical reasons when 22 cycles were completed, as pregnancy rates were very low in group I. In conclusion, hCG administration in the proliferative phase might directly affect endometrial proliferation and receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikos Prapas
- Iakentro Fertility Centre, Ag. Vasiliou 4 Street, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Abstract
Lutropin alfa is the first and only recombinant human form of luteinizing hormone (LH) developed for use in the stimulation of follicular development. Dose-finding studies revealed a significant dose-dependent increase in the rate of optimal follicular development among women with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and profound LH deficiency (<1.2 IU/L) who received subcutaneous lutropin alfa 0-225 IU/day plus follitropin alfa. Similarly, in a double-blind, randomized study, the rate of optimal follicular development was significantly higher in women with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and profound LH deficiency receiving subcutaneous lutropin alfa 75 IU/day plus follitropin alfa than in those receiving placebo plus follitropin alfa. Lutropin alfa with follitropin alfa may also be of benefit in certain subgroups of normogonadotropic women (e.g. those with an inadequate response to prior follitropin alfa monotherapy, those aged >or=35 years, and those with profound LH downregulation or who required excessive exogenous follitropin alfa). However, one study in older women (>or=35 years) did not show any advantage of lutropin alfa supplementation. Once-daily subcutaneous lutropin alfa was generally well tolerated in hypogonadotropic hypogonadal women, with the majority of adverse events being of mild to moderate severity.
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Abstract
This review summarizes a series of lectures given at a recent Continuing Medical Education meeting in Hamburg, Germany (May 2007), aiming to understand the role of luteinizing hormone (LH) in follicular development during the natural menstrual cycle and controlled ovarian stimulation. Clinical situations and target groups of patients who might benefit from LH supplementation during their ovarian stimulation were discussed and defined. The lectures updated knowledge on the physiology of LH during the normal menstrual cycle and the role of LH in ovarian stimulation. The concept of the 'LH window' was presented, and the use of LH supplementation in different groups of patients undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation was discussed, including those with advanced age, hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism, pituitary down-regulation and poor response. In addition, the different ways of using LH or human chorionic gonadotrophin supplementation in ovulation induction protocols were described.
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Weghofer A, Schnepf S, Barad D, Gleicher N. The impact of luteinizing hormone in assisted reproduction: a review. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2007; 19:253-7. [PMID: 17495642 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0b013e3280bad843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Although the key role of luteinizing hormone in ovarian function, the promotion of follicular growth and maturation, is widely acknowledged, its usefulness as a predictor of ovarian status, and as a supplement during fertility treatment, remains controversial. RECENT FINDINGS Luteinizing hormone alone is not an effective predictor of ovarian function. In combination with follicle-stimulating hormone, as the so-called follicle-stimulating hormone: luteinizing hormone ratio, it serves as a useful marker of ovarian status. Although published data on luteinizing hormone supplementation during ovarian hyperstimulation are somewhat limited, recent well-designed studies suggest a beneficial effect of: (1) luteinizing hormone supplementation for women with inadequate responses to follicle-stimulating hormone-only stimulation; (2) in primarily young patients with low baseline luteinizing hormone levels and, consequently, insufficient remaining endogenous luteinizing hormone concentration during pituitary suppression; and (3) in older women with higher baseline luteinizing hormone levels and age-appropriate ovarian function, who require higher luteinizing hormone thresholds, even during pituitary suppression. SUMMARY Luteinizing hormone levels, as a component of the follicle-stimulating hormone: luteinizing hormone ratio, contribute to the assessment of ovarian function, whereas the supplementation of luteinizing hormone on an individualized basis, in carefully selected patients, improves outcomes of ovarian stimulation with gonadotropins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Weghofer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University Vienna, Austria.
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Kolibianakis EM, Kalogeropoulou L, Griesinger G, Papanikolaou EG, Papadimas J, Bontis J, Tarlatzis BC. Among patients treated with FSH and GnRH analogues for in vitro fertilization, is the addition of recombinant LH associated with the probability of live birth? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Hum Reprod Update 2007; 13:445-52. [PMID: 17586849 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmm008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess whether the addition of recombinant luteinizing hormone (LH) increases live birth rate, among patients treated with follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues for in vitro fertilization (IVF). Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) answering the research question that contained sufficient information to allow ascertainment of whether randomization was true and whether equality was present between the groups compared, regarding baseline demographic characteristics, gonadotrophin stimulation protocol, number of embryos transferred and luteal phase support administered. A literature search identified seven RCTs (701 patients) that provided the information of interest, among which five reported agonist and two antagonist cycles. The reported outcome measure, clinical pregnancy, was converted to live birth using published data in one study. No significant difference in the probability of live birth was present with or without rLH addition to FSH (odds ratio [OR]: 0.92, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.65-1.31; P = 0.65). This finding remained stable in subgroup analyses that ordered the studies by dose of rLH added, the type of analogue used to inhibit premature LH surge, the time rLH was added during the follicular phase, the age of patients analysed, the presence of allocation concealment and by the way the information on live birth was retrieved. In conclusion, the available evidence does not support the hypothesis that the addition of recombinant LH increases the live birth rate in patients treated with FSH and GnRH analogues for IVF.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Kolibianakis
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Nea Efkarpia Peripheral Road, Thessaloniki 54603, Greece.
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Baruffi RL, Mauri AL, Petersen CG, Felipe V, Martins AM, Cornicelli J, Cavagna M, Oliveira JB, Franco JG. Recombinant LH supplementation to recombinant FSH during induced ovarian stimulation in the GnRH-antagonist protocol: a meta-analysis. Reprod Biomed Online 2007; 14:14-25. [PMID: 17207326 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60758-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
This study aims to compare the efficacy of recombinant LH (rLH) supplementation for ovarian stimulation in gonadotrophin-releasing hormone-antagonist protocol for IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles. Search strategies included online surveys of databases. The fixed effects model was used for odds ratio (OR) and effect size (weighted mean difference, WMD). Five trials fulfilled the inclusion criteria. When the meta-analysis was carried out, advantages were observed for the LH supplementation protocol with respect to higher serum oestradiol concentrations on the day of human chorionic gonadotrophin administration P < 0.0001; WMD: 514, 95% CI 368, 660) and higher number of mature oocytes (P = 0.0098; WMD: 0.88, 95% CI 0.21, 1.54). However, these differences were not observed in the total amount of recombinant FSH (rFSH) administered, days of stimulation, number of oocyets retrieved, the clinical pregnancy rate per oocyte retrieval, the implantation rate and miscarriage rate. This result demonstrates that the association of rLH with rFSH may prevent any decrease in oestradiol after antagonist administration and that a significantly higher number of mature oocytes was available for laboratory work. Nevertheless, it failed to show any statistically significant difference in clinically significant end-points in IVF (implantation and pregnancy rates). Additional randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these results further.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Lr Baruffi
- Centre for Human Reproduction Prof. Franco J, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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Oliveira JBA, Mauri AL, Petersen CG, Martins AMC, Cornicelli J, Cavanha M, Pontes A, Baruffi RLR, Franco JG. Recombinant luteinizing hormone supplementation to recombinant follicle-stimulation hormone during induced ovarian stimulation in the GnRH-agonist protocol: a meta-analysis. J Assist Reprod Genet 2006; 24:67-75. [PMID: 17195098 PMCID: PMC3454989 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-006-9095-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2006] [Accepted: 11/29/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE to compare the efficacy of recombinant LH supplementation for controlled ovarian stimulation in recombinant FSH and GnRH-agonist protocol. METHODS Search strategies included on-line surveys of databases. The fixed effects model was used for odds ratio and effect size (weighted mean difference). Four trials fulfilled the inclusion criteria. RESULTS a fewer days of stimulation (p<0.0001), a fewer total amount of r-FSH administered (p<0.0001) and a higher serum estradiol levels on the day of hCG administration (p<0.0001) were observed for the r-LH supplementation protocol. However, differences were not observed in number of oocyte retrieved, number of mature oocytes, clinical pregnancy per oocyte retrieval, implantation and miscarriage rates. CONCLUSIONS more randomized controlled trials are necessary before evidence-based recommendations regarding exogenous LH supplementation in ovarian stimulation protocols with FSH and GnRH-agonist for assisted reproduction treatment can be provided.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana Lucia Mauri
- Center for Human Reproduction Prof. Franco Junior, Ribeirão Preto, SP Brazil
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine of Botucatu, UNESP, Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | - Claudia G. Petersen
- Center for Human Reproduction Prof. Franco Junior, Ribeirão Preto, SP Brazil
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine of Botucatu, UNESP, Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | - Anice M. C. Martins
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine of Botucatu, UNESP, Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | - João Cornicelli
- Center for Human Reproduction Prof. Franco Junior, Ribeirão Preto, SP Brazil
| | - Mario Cavanha
- Faculty of Medicine of Santo Amaro University, São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - Anagloria Pontes
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine of Botucatu, UNESP, Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | | | - José G. Franco
- Center for Human Reproduction Prof. Franco Junior, Ribeirão Preto, SP Brazil
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine of Botucatu, UNESP, Botucatu, SP Brazil
- João Fiusa, 689-CEP 14025-310, Ribeirão Preto, SP Brazil
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Shrim A, Elizur SE, Seidman DS, Rabinovici J, Wiser A, Dor J. Elevated day 3 FSH/LH ratio due to low LH concentrations predicts reduced ovarian response. Reprod Biomed Online 2006; 12:418-22. [PMID: 16740213 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)61993-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Adequate ovarian response, essential for successful IVF, cannot be accurately predicted. This study retrospectively reviewed all patients undergoing IVF from 1998 to 2001. Inclusion criteria were age <41 years at treatment onset and a basal day 3 serum FSH concentration <12 IU/l. Women with FSH <or=8 IU/l underwent a secondary analysis. Two groups emerged according to basal day 3 serum FSH/LH ratio: >or=3 in group 1 and <3 in group 2 (controls). Age at treatment initiation, basal serum day 3 FSH and LH concentrations, peak serum oestradiol concentration, number of retrieved and fertilized oocytes and pregnancy rate were analysed. Groups 1 (n = 41, 111 IVF treatment cycles) and 2 (n = 596, 1,434 IVF treatment cycles) were similar in term of woman's mean age. Group 1 had significantly higher mean basal day 3 FSH concentration (P < 0.01) and significantly lower oestradiol concentrations at oocyte retrieval (P < 0.01), mean number of oocytes retrieved and fertilized (P < 0.01) and pregnancy rate (P = 0.016). The same trend persisted after excluding 98 patients with basal FSH concentrations >8 IU/l. In conclusion, elevated day 3 FSH/LH ratio is associated with an inferior outcome in IVF treatment cycles and may be used as an additional predictor for decreased ovarian response.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Shrim
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Centre, Tel-Hashomer, and the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel.
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Abstract
Human reproductive evolution, involving a complex interaction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, the release of pulsatile and threshold concentrations of gonadotrophins and positive and negative feedback systems, has ensured the release of a single viable egg and functioning corpora lutea in the natural menstrual cycle. The use of follicular stimulation regimens to obtain multiple eggs has resulted in a compromise - in terms of the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation, cost, multiple pregnancies, wastage of or the need for cryopreservation of surplus embryos. Even some women with apparently normal menstrual cycles might become 'poor responders' when administered with follicular stimulants, and we still do not know if the incidence of oocyte aneuploidy is artificially raised after stimulation. After the advent of recombinant FSH and LH, the precise roles of these hormones individually needs to be elucidated to understand the physiological requirements for successful ovarian stimulation in each woman undergoing IVF, to maximize her chance and minimise attendant risks. One of the key debates is the role of LH, which in the natural cycle is significant, but may be redundant during ovarian stimulation for IVF. Current outcome indicators are crude when attempting to understand the physiology, and more basic research and randomized, focused clinical trials are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franco Lisi
- Servizio di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione, Clinica Villa Europa, Via Eufrate 27 00144 Roma, Italia.
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Dias S, McNamee R, Vail A. Evidence of improving quality of reporting of randomized controlled trials in subfertility. Hum Reprod 2006; 21:2617-27. [PMID: 16793995 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/del236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The quality of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in subfertility and their suitability for inclusion in meta-analyses have been assessed in the past and found to be insufficient. Our aim was to assess whether this quality has improved over time, particularly since the publication of the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) statement, and to assess what proportion of trials could be included in the meta-analyses of pregnancy outcomes such as those included in Cochrane Reviews. METHODS A selection of subfertility trials published in 1990, 1996 and 2002 was collected from the Cochrane Menstrual Disorder and Subfertility Group (MDSG) database. Only trials published in English as full journal articles, claiming to be randomized and reporting on pregnancy outcomes, were included. RESULTS One hundred and sixty-four trials met our inclusion criteria. Twenty-four (15%) were found not to be randomized, despite claims, and only 10 trials (6%) provided adequate details on the methods of randomization and allocation concealment. Of these, only three had sufficient details extractable to allow for an intention-to-treat analysis of the outcome 'live birth'. CONCLUSIONS Although an improvement in some subfertility-specific issues was observed, the quality of reporting of RCTs still needs to improve to make them suitable for inclusion in meta-analyses such as those in the Cochrane Library.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Dias
- Biostatistics Group, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
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30
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Abstract
The role of LH in ovarian stimulation continues to be controversial. Most observational studies on both gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist and GnRH antagonist protocols failed to show an effect on ongoing pregnancy likelihood of punctually measured 'low' or 'high' endogenous LH concentrations during ovarian stimulation. As yet, it is still unknown whether individual patients with strongly suppressed levels of immunoreactive LH would actually benefit from additional LH administration. This can only be explored by means of interventional trials. Most trials on LH supplementation in general populations in both GnRH agonist and GnRH antagonist protocols have not found a benefit of LH supplementation, although it has been indicated that some subgroups, such as older age patients, or patients with a low ovarian response might benefit from LH. These concepts need to be explored further before recommendations can be given as to in who, in what protocol, at what time point and in what doses LH should be supplemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georg Griesinger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Clinic of Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany.
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31
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Levi-Setti PE, Cavagna M, Bulletti C. Recombinant gonadotrophins associated with GnRH antagonist (cetrorelix) in ovarian stimulation for ICSI: comparison of r-FSH alone and in combination with r-LH. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2005; 126:212-6. [PMID: 16377062 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2005.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2004] [Revised: 08/21/2005] [Accepted: 11/03/2005] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective was to verify the outcome of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) with ovulation induction performed with GnRH antagonists, comparing the use of recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (r-FSH) alone and in combination with recombinant luteinizing hormone (r-LH) in a prospective and randomized trial. STUDY DESIGN Forty male-factor infertile normo-ovulatory patients undergoing ovarian stimulation for ICSI took part in the study. After initiating ovarian stimulation with only r-FSH, all patients were treated with GnRH antagonist (cetrorelix). When beginning cetrorelix administration, the patients were randomized into two groups: in group I, 20 patients continued to receive r-FSH alone and in group II, 20 patients received combined r-FSH and r-LH. The number of metaphase II oocytes, estradiol concentration at the time of hCG administration, fertilization rate, grade 1 embryo rate, pregnancy rate per cycle, and implantation rate were measured. Results are expressed as mean+/-S.D. RESULTS In group I, the women's age was 32.3+/-2.30 years, and FSH concentration was 7.8+/-1.7 IU/ml. In group II, the women's age was 32.2+/-2.46 years and FSH concentration was 7.5+/-1.7 IU/ml. The number of oocytes retrieved was 9.6+/-2.9 and the number of metaphase II oocytes was 6.7+/-2.2 in group I. In group II the number of retrieved oocytes were 9.9+/-2.6 and the number of metaphase II oocytes 6.9+/-2.1 (p>0.05). Estradiol concentration at the time of hCG was 4.6+/-1.8 nm/l in group I and 6.7+/-2.0 nm/l in group II (p<0.01). Fertilization rate was 73.0% in group I versus 78.2% in group II. In group I, we obtained 53.9% of grade 1 embryos versus 54.4% in group II (p>0.05). Pregnancy and implantation rates in group I were 30.0 and 16.7%, respectively and in group II 35.0 and 20.4%, respectively (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS The use of recombinant LH in addition to recombinant FSH may prevent a decrease in estradiol after GnRH antagonist administration, but does not influence positively the outcome of oocyte number, maturation, embryo quality, fertilization rate, pregnancy rate per cycle, and implantation rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo E Levi-Setti
- Unità Operativa di Medicina della Riproduzione, Istituto Clinico Humanitas, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy.
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Caglar GS, Asimakopoulos B, Nikolettos N, Diedrich K, Al-Hasani S. Recombinant LH in ovarian stimulation. Reprod Biomed Online 2005; 10:774-85. [PMID: 15970010 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)61123-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The advent of recombinant gonadotrophins brought significant changes in fertility therapy. Treatment options with recombinant gonadotrophins add more to knowledge on folliculogenesis and ovarian steroidogenesis. Over a decade, recombinant LH (rLH) has been used for clinical trials, and the amount of peripheral LH that is necessary for optimal follicular growth, oocyte maturation, subsequent embryo development and assisted reproduction outcome during ovulation induction can now be better evaluated. This review evaluates the effect of rLH supplementation on ovarian stimulation and assisted reproduction outcome. The studies conducted with rLH supplementation in ovarian stimulation in different groups of patients and in cases of controlled ovarian stimulation are clearly discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gamze Sinem Caglar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University, Lubeck, Germany
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Tarlatzis B, Tavmergen E, Szamatowicz M, Barash A, Amit A, Levitas E, Shoham Z. The use of recombinant human LH (lutropin alfa) in the late stimulation phase of assisted reproduction cycles: a double-blind, randomized, prospective study. Hum Reprod 2005; 21:90-4. [PMID: 16172149 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dei293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effect of recombinant human LH (r-hLH; lutropin alfa) in women undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation with recombinant human FSH (r-hFSH) prior to IVF was investigated. METHODS After down-regulation with the GnRH agonist, buserelin, 114 normo-ovulatory women (aged 18-37 years) received r-hFSH alone until the lead follicle reached a diameter of 14 mm. Patients were then randomized in a double-blind fashion to receive r-hFSH in addition to r-hLH, 75 IU s.c., or placebo daily for a maximum of 10 days prior to oocyte retrieval and IVF. The primary end-point was the number of metaphase II oocytes. RESULTS There were no significant differences between treatment groups for the primary end-point. Serum estradiol concentrations on the day of HCG administration were significantly higher in the group receiving r-hLH plus r-hFSH than in the group receiving r-hFSH alone (P = 0.0001), but there were no significant differences between the groups in dose and duration of r-hFSH treatment required, oocyte maturation, fertilization rate, pregnancy rate and live birth rate. CONCLUSION In this patient population, the addition of r-hLH during the late follicular phase of a long GnRH agonist and r-hFSH stimulation cycle provides no further benefit in terms of oocyte maturation or other end-points.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Tarlatzis
- Unit for Human Reproduction, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and Infertility & IVF Centre, Geniki Kliniki, Thessaloníki, Greece.
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Shoham Z. Treatment of female infertility with recombinant human luteinising hormone: is there a benefit over other available drugs? Expert Opin Pharmacother 2005; 4:1985-94. [PMID: 14596652 DOI: 10.1517/14656566.4.11.1985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
This manuscript reviews the role of recombinant human luteinising hormone (rhLH) as a therapeutic drug in ovarian stimulation for assisted reproductive technology (ART) and ovulation induction. For this purpose, the role of LH during the follicular phase and during the ovulatory surge, along with the role of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) as a surrogate LH, is reviewed and compared to the results available with the new rhLH formulation. The use of rhLH was found to be safe and highly effective given during the follicular phase and to mimic an endogenous LH surge. The availability of both LH and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) as separate recombinant preparations enables physicians to adjust the doses of each gonadotropin to the individual patient according to the 'therapeutic window' concept for each drug to maximise the success of ovarian stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeev Shoham
- Reproductive Medicine and Infertility Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaplan Medical Center, Rehovot 76100, Israel.
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Lisi F, Rinaldi L, Fishel S, Caserta D, Lisi R, Campbell A. Evaluation of two doses of recombinant luteinizing hormone supplementation in an unselected group of women undergoing follicular stimulation for in vitro fertilization. Fertil Steril 2005; 83:309-15. [PMID: 15705367 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2004.07.969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2004] [Revised: 07/20/2004] [Accepted: 07/20/2004] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy of two doses of recombinant (r)LH, 75 IU (recommended) or 37.5 IU, for follicular stimulation and outcomes in a randomized cohort of IVF patients. DESIGN Randomized, prospective analysis. SETTING Private hospital incorporating an established IVF center. PATIENT(S) Women undergoing IVF who had a body mass index >18 or <35 and no abnormal karyotype, anovulation, oligomenorrhea, or any known endocrinopathy/illness. INTERVENTION(S) Pituitary desensitization was achieved with triptorelin (0.1 mg SC), and gonadotropin stimulation was performed with either rFSH alone (group A) or in combination with rLH in one of two doses: 37.5 IU (group B) or 75 IU (group C), daily. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) A range of endocrinologic, embryologic, clinical, and outcome parameters were evaluated. RESULT(S) With rLH supplementation there was a significant increase in the incidence of implantation (9% for rFSH only [group A] vs. 11% and 16% with 37.5 IU rLH and 75.0 IU rLH [groups B and C], respectively) and clinical pregnancy (19% vs. 23% and 31%) (P<.01 and P<.04, respectively), whereas there was no difference in the multiple pregnancy rates. There was a significant (P<.001) increase in the total units of rFSH used in proportion to the amount of rLH supplementation (2,645 U vs. 3,475 U and 3,681 U) and in the level of peripheral E(2) on the day of hCG administration (1,049 pg/mL vs. 1,640 pg/mL and 1,226 pg/mL) (P<.001). There was no significant between difference in mean age, numbers of oocytes recovered, basal and downregulation hormone levels, or the incidence of fertilization in the absence or presence of rLH supplementation, but a higher incidence of grade 1 to 2 embryos was observed when rLH was supplemented. CONCLUSION(S) After pituitary desensitization, there was an increase in the incidence of implantation, clinical pregnancy, and delivery rates in patients stimulated with rFSH supplemented with rLH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franco Lisi
- BIOGENESI, Casa di Cura Villa Europa all'EUR, Rome, Italy
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Kol S. To add or not to add LH: consideration of LH concentration changes in individual patients. Reprod Biomed Online 2005; 11:664-6. [PMID: 16417723 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)61680-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The availability of recombinant FSH and LH opens an opportunity to individualize ovarian stimulation. While the need for FSH is universal, a question remains whether exogenous LH is beneficial. Previous research on adding LH to an unselected group of patients failed to demonstrate any advantage. Indeed, it may seem presumptuous to expect that all patients will respond in the same manner. Recent studies hint that LH supplementation should be individualized. These studies indirectly suggest that the changes in LH concentration may be more important than the concentration per se. The growing follicle, and particularly oestradiol biosynthesis, may be sensitive to decreases in LH concentrations. The challenge is to identify the patient whose LH will drop during stimulation. This individualized approach will assure that supplemented LH will only be given to those who need it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahar Kol
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Medical Centre, POB 9602, Haifa 31096, Israel.
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Abstract
Many clinical trials have been carried out to find the optimal gonadotrophin starting dose for IVF. The consensus for patients undergoing first treatment and <40 years old is a range stretching from 150 to 250 IU/day. The varying ovarian response to gonadotrophins may be due to factors such as age, basal FSH, number of antral follicles and body mass index, all of which should be taken into account before choosing the type of protocol and the amount of gonadotrophins to use. Increasing the dose of recombinant FSH does not compensate for the age-related decline in retrievable oocytes. Higher doses of gonadotrophins are required in overweight patients, but enhanced protocols are thought to only marginally improve live birth rates in obese women. The actual role of LH in controlled ovarian stimulation is still a matter of debate. A therapeutic 'window' of LH concentrations, below which oestradiol production is inadequate and above which LH may be detrimental to follicular development has been described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Borini
- Tecnobios Procreazione, Centre for Reproductive Health, Bologna, Italy.
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Marrs R, Meldrum D, Muasher S, Schoolcraft W, Werlin L, Kelly E. Randomized trial to compare the effect of recombinant human FSH (follitropin alfa) with or without recombinant human LH in women undergoing assisted reproduction treatment. Reprod Biomed Online 2004; 8:175-82. [PMID: 14989794 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60513-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Women undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) for male factor infertility were randomly assigned to receive ovarian stimulation in a long agonist protocol with a combination of recombinant human FSH (r-hFSH; Gonal-F) and recombinant human LH (r-hLH; Luveris) (n = 212) starting on day 6 of FSH stimulation until human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) at a daily fixed dose of 150 IU r-hLH, or with r-hFSH alone (n = 219). There was no significant difference in the number of metaphase II oocytes retrieved (10.3 versus 10.4) in patients treated with r-hFSH and r-hLH versus r-hFSH alone; however, more embryos were transferred in the LH-supplemented group (2.9 versus 2.8, P = 0.037). Overall, the implantation rates were 22.9 versus 27.0% in patients treated with r-hFSH and r-hLH versus with r-hFSH alone respectively (NS). The respective numbers of MII oocytes retrieved in patients <35 or >or=35 years were 11 versus 8.3 (P = 0.010) for patients treated with r-hFSH alone, and 10.7 versus 9.3 (NS) for those given supplemental r-hLH (150 IU) from day 6. Implantation rates in patients <35 years treated with r-hFSH were higher (30.7%) than those receiving r-hFSH and r-hLH, (23.5%) (P = 0.068). In patients >or=35 years, the implantation rates were 21.7% for those patients supplemented with 150 IU r-hLH from day 6 of stimulation versus 15.7% when treated with FSH alone (NS). Younger patients therefore do not seem to benefit from an LH-supplemented ovarian stimulation protocol, but women >or=35 years undergoing assisted reproduction may benefit from using r-hLH in addition to r-hFSH.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Marrs
- California Fertility Partners, Santa Monica, CA, USA
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Balasch J, Fábregues F. Pregnancy after administration of high dose recombinant human LH alone to support final stages of follicular maturation in a woman with long-standing hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism. Reprod Biomed Online 2003; 6:427-31. [PMID: 12831587 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)62162-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Traditionally, the roles of LH in folliculogenesis have been considered to be limited to stimulating theca cells androgen production, triggering ovulation and supporting the corpus luteum. However, in the late stages of follicle development, granulosa cells become receptive to LH stimulation and LH becomes capable of exerting its actions on both theca cells and granulosa cells. Thus, it has been postulated that once an appropriate (i.e. LH-responsive) stage of follicular development has been achieved in response to treatment with FSH, there are theoretical grounds for reducing or completely withdrawing FSH and maintaining tonic stimulation of the dominant follicle with exogenous LH. This hypothesis was tested in a woman with long-standing hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism, which is the best and only true model to investigate correctly any LH hypothesis. Ovulation induction treatment was carried out with daily s.c. injections of 150 IU recombinant human FSH (rhFSH) (increased to 225 IU daily on stimulation day 15) and 375 IU recombinant human LH (rhLH). When a 14-mm follicle was identified on stimulation day 26, rhFSH was discontinued and from treatment days 26 to 29 the patient was given only rhLH at the above-mentioned dose of 375 IU/day. On treatment day 30, the single dominant follicle measured 22 mm in diameter and oestradiol serum concentration was 148 pg/ml. Thus, an injection of 10,000 IU i.m. human chorionic gonadotrophin was given and sexual intercourse was advised. The patient conceived and a viable singleton intrauterine pregnancy was obtained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Balasch
- Institut Clínic of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Faculty of Medicine-University of Barcelona, Hospital Clínic-Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain.
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Lisi F, Rinaldi L, Fishel S, Lisi R, Pepe G, Picconeri MG. Use of recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (Gonal F) and recombinant luteinizing hormone (Luveris) for multiple follicular stimulation in patients with a suboptimal response to in vitro fertilization. Fertil Steril 2003; 79:1037-8. [PMID: 12749452 DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(02)04917-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Ludwig M. Does the Addition of Luteinizing Hormone in Ovarian Stimulation Protocols Improve the Outcome? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2003; 2:305-13. [PMID: 15981947 DOI: 10.2165/00024677-200302050-00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian stimulation is an integral part of assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Under physiologic conditions, both follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) activity is necessary to guarantee follicle growth and maturation. This can be shown in patients with hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism, who have no endogenous FSH or LH activity. The use of FSH alone in these patients does not result in sufficient follicle growth and oocyte quality. Approximately 75IU of LH activity per day is necessary to guarantee optimal success. The use of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists in normogonadotrophic patients may result in suppression of LH levels below a certain threshold, resulting in suboptimal outcomes. The question under discussion in this article is the threshold level of LH below which exogenous LH activity should be added to provide optimal ovarian response. Different studies indicate that the endogenous LH level should be 0.5-1.5IU in long-term protocol situations. Patients treated in ultra-long GnRH agonist protocols, as well as older patients, patients with a low response to gonadotropin treatment, and patients treated with a GnRH antagonist protocol may benefit from exogenous LH activity. There are three ways of adding LH activity in ovarian stimulation cycles. Nowadays, lutropin alfa (recombinant LH) may be the optimal choice since it has no chorionic gonadotropin activity and allows individual dosage titration. Every menotropin preparation currently on the market contains some chorionic gonadotropin activity. However, more data are necessary before evidence-based recommendations regarding LH supplementation in ovarian stimulation protocols can be given.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Ludwig
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Gynecologic Endocrinology, Endokrinologikum Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany.
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