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Roof KA, Andre KE, Modesitt SC, Schirmer DA. Maximizing ovarian function and fertility following chemotherapy in premenopausal patients: Is there a role for ovarian suppression? Gynecol Oncol Rep 2024; 53:101383. [PMID: 38633671 PMCID: PMC11021951 DOI: 10.1016/j.gore.2024.101383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
As more premenopausal patients undergo fertility preserving cancer treatments, there is an increased need for fertility counseling and ovarian sparing strategies. Many patients receive gonadotoxic chemotherapeutic agents which can put them at risk of primary ovarian insufficiency or profoundly diminished ovarian reserve. Traditionally, estradiol and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) values have been used to evaluate ovarian function but more recently, reproductive endocrinologists have been proponents of anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) as a validated measure of ovarian potential. While the gold standard for fertility preservation remains oocyte cryopreservation, data suggest there may be additional interventions that can mitigate the gonadotoxic effects of chemotherapeutic agents. The main objectives of this focused review were to quantify the risk of primary ovarian failure associated with the most common chemotherapies used in treatment of gynecologic cancers and to evaluate and recommend potential interventions to mitigate toxic effects on ovarian function. Chemotherapeutic agents can cause direct loss of oocytes and primordial follicles as well as stromal and vascular atrophy and the extent is dependent upon mechanism of action and age of the patient. The risk of ovarian failure is the highest with alkylating agents (42.2 %), anthracyclines (<10-34 % in patients under 40 years versus 98 % in patients aged 40-49), taxanes (57.1 %) and platinum agents (50 %). Multiple trials demonstrate that gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, when administered concurrently with chemotherapy, may have protective effects, with more patients experiencing resumption of a regular menstruation pattern and recovering ovarian function more quickly post-treatment. Premenopausal patients receiving chemotherapy for the treatment of gynecologic cancers should receive adequate counseling on the potential adverse effects on their fertility. Although oocyte cryopreservation remains the gold standard for fertility preservation, there is some evidence to suggest that GNRH agonists could help maintain and preserve ovarian function and should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey A. Roof
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Kerri E. Andre
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Susan C. Modesitt
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - D. Austin Schirmer
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Łubik-Lejawka D, Gabriel I, Marzec A, Olejek A. Oncofertility as an Essential Part of Comprehensive Cancer Treatment in Patients of Reproductive Age, Adolescents and Children. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1858. [PMID: 38791937 PMCID: PMC11119835 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16101858] [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: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The number of children, adolescents and young adults diagnosed with cancer has been rising recently. Various oncological treatments have a detrimental effect on female fertility, and childbearing becomes a major issue during surveillance after recovery. This review discusses the impact of oncological treatments on the ovarian reserve with a thorough explanation of oncologic treatments' effects and modes of oncofertility procedures. The aim of this review is to help clinicians in making an informed decision about post-treatment fertility in their patients. Ultimately, it may lead to improved overall long-term outcomes among young populations suffering from cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Anita Olejek
- Department of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Oncological Gynaecology in Bytom, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland; (D.Ł.-L.); (I.G.); (A.M.)
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Silvestris E, Cormio G, Loizzi V, Corrado G, Arezzo F, Petracca EA. Fertility Preservation in BRCA1/2 Germline Mutation Carriers: An Overview. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:615. [PMID: 38792636 PMCID: PMC11122448 DOI: 10.3390/life14050615] [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: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations are responsible for a higher incidence of breast and ovarian cancer (from 55% up to 70% vs. 12% in the general population). If their functions have been widely investigated in the onset of these malignancies, still little is known about their role in fertility impairment. Cancer patients treated with antineoplastic drugs can be susceptible to their gonadotoxicity and, in women, some of them can induce apoptotic program in premature ovarian follicles, progressive depletion of ovarian reserve and, consequently, cancer treatment-related infertility (CTRI). BRCA variants seem to be associated with early infertility, thus accelerating treatment impairment of ovaries and making women face the concrete possibility of an early pregnancy. In this regard, fertility preservation (FP) procedures should be discussed in oncofertility counseling-from the first line of prevention with risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) to the new experimental ovarian stem cells (OSCs) model as a new way to obtain in vitro-differentiated oocytes, several techniques may represent a valid option to BRCA-mutated patients. In this review, we revisit knowledge about BRCA involvement in lower fertility, pregnancy feasibility, and the fertility preservation (FP) options available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Silvestris
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (F.A.); (E.A.P.)
| | - Gennaro Cormio
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (F.A.); (E.A.P.)
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Vera Loizzi
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (F.A.); (E.A.P.)
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Giacomo Corrado
- Department of Woman, Child Health and Public Health, Gynecologic Oncology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00136 Rome, Italy;
| | - Francesca Arezzo
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (F.A.); (E.A.P.)
| | - Easter Anna Petracca
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (F.A.); (E.A.P.)
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Silvestris E, D’Oronzo S, Petracca EA, D’Addario C, Cormio G, Loizzi V, Canosa S, Corrado G. Fertility Preservation in the Era of Immuno-Oncology: Lights and Shadows. J Pers Med 2024; 14:431. [PMID: 38673058 PMCID: PMC11050999 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14040431] [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: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, immuno-oncology has revolutionized the cancer treatment field by harnessing the immune system's power to counteract cancer cells. While this innovative approach holds great promise for improving cancer outcomes, it also raises important considerations related to fertility and reproductive toxicity. In fact, most young females receiving gonadotoxic anti-cancer treatments undergo iatrogenic ovarian exhaustion, resulting in a permanent illness that precludes the vocation of motherhood as a natural female sexual identity. Although commonly used, oocyte cryopreservation for future in vitro fertilization and even ovarian cortex transplantation are considered unsafe procedures in cancer patients due to their oncogenic risks; whereas, ovarian stem cells might support neo-oogenesis, providing a novel stemness model of regenerative medicine for future fertility preservation programs in oncology. Recent scientific evidence has postulated that immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) might in some way reduce fertility by inducing either primary or secondary hypogonadism, whose incidence and mechanisms are not yet known. Therefore, considering the lack of data, it is currently not possible to define the most suitable FP procedure for young patients who are candidates for ICIs. In this report, we will investigate the few available data concerning the molecular regulation of ICI therapy and their resulting gonadal toxicity, to hypothesize the most suitable fertility preservation strategy for patients receiving these drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Silvestris
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II” Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (E.A.P.); (G.C.); (V.L.)
| | - Stella D’Oronzo
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy;
- Division of Medical Oncology, A.O.U. Consorziale Policlinico di Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Easter Anna Petracca
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II” Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (E.A.P.); (G.C.); (V.L.)
| | - Claudia D’Addario
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy;
- Division of Medical Oncology, A.O.U. Consorziale Policlinico di Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Gennaro Cormio
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II” Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (E.A.P.); (G.C.); (V.L.)
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | - Vera Loizzi
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II” Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (E.A.P.); (G.C.); (V.L.)
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Stefano Canosa
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Giacomo Corrado
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, Department of Woman, Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00136 Roma, Italy;
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Taniskidou AM, Voultsos P, Tarlatzis V, Timotheadou E. Perceptions and experiences of fertility preservation in female patients with cancer in Greece. BMC Womens Health 2024; 24:108. [PMID: 38336757 PMCID: PMC10858603 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-024-02955-x] [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: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As advances in oncology have led to remarkable and steady improvements in the survival rates of patients with cancer and anticancer treatment can cause premature ovarian failure in women, fertility preservation (FP) has become a global public health concern and an integral part of the care for women diagnosed with cancer during reproductive age. However, for various reasons, FP remains underutilized for patients with cancer. There are substantial gaps in our knowledge about women's experiences and perceptions of the issue. This study aims to contribute to bridging that gap. METHODS This prospective qualitative study was conducted from March 2018 to February 2023. A combination of purposive and snowball sampling was used. Data were collected by semistructured interviews with nineteen reproductive-age women who had been recently diagnosed with cancer. Data were classified and analysed with a thematic analysis approach. RESULTS A variety of distinct themes and subthemes emerged from the analysis of the interview data. The cancer diagnosis emerged as a factor that considerably affects the women's attitudes towards biological parenthood: It can further increase their (strong) previous desire or decrease their previous (weak) desire. Women with a recent cancer diagnosis had not received adequate and multidisciplinary counselling, including clear and sufficient information. However, participants felt satisfied with the information they received because they either received the information they requested or remained in denial about the need to be informed (i.e., because they felt overwhelmed after the cancer diagnosis). Embryo cryopreservation emerged as a less desirable FP option for women with cancer. Participants showed respect for human embryos, not always for religious reasons. Surrogacy emerged as the last resort for most participants. Religious, social or financial factors did play a secondary (if any) role in women's decision-making about FP. Finally, male partners' opinions played a secondary role in most participants' decision-making about FP. If embryo cryopreservation was the selected option, partners would have a say because they were contributing their genetic material. CONCLUSIONS The findings that emerged from the data analysis were partly consistent with prior studies. However, we identified some interesting nuances that are of clinical importance. The results of this study may serve as a starting point for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Maria Taniskidou
- Laboratory of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology (Division: Medical Law and Ethics), School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, University Campus, Thessaloniki, GR, 54124, Greece
| | - Polychronis Voultsos
- Laboratory of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology (Division: Medical Law and Ethics), School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, University Campus, Thessaloniki, GR, 54124, Greece.
| | - Vasileios Tarlatzis
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, University Campus, Thessaloniki, GR, 54124, Greece
| | - Eleni Timotheadou
- Department of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Papageorgiou Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Dong R, Abazarikia A, Luan Y, Yu SY, Kim SY. Molecular Mechanisms Determining Mammalian Oocyte Quality with the Treatment of Cancer Therapy. ADVANCES IN ANATOMY, EMBRYOLOGY, AND CELL BIOLOGY 2024; 238:97-119. [PMID: 39030356 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-55163-5_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Cancer is a global public health issue and remains one of the leading causes of death in the United States (Siegel et al. CA Cancer J Clin. 72:7-33, 2022). It is estimated in the US in 2022, about 935,000 new cases of cancer will be diagnosed in women, and the probability of developing invasive cancer is 5.8% for females younger than 50 years old (Siegel et al. CA Cancer J Clin. 72:7-33, 2022). However, advances in screening programs, diagnostic methods, and therapeutic options have greatly increased the five-year survival rate in reproductive-age women with a variety of cancers. Given the clinical consequences of gonadotoxic cancer therapies, young, female cancer survivors may face compromised fertility, premature ovarian insufficiency, early-onset menopause, and endocrine dysregulation (Bedoschi et al. Future Oncol. 12:2333-44, 2016). Gonadotoxic side effects may include decreased oocyte quality within surviving follicles, loss of ovarian follicles, and impaired ovarian function. In reproductive-age women, oocyte quality is an important element for successful clinical pregnancies and healthy offspring as poor-quality oocytes may be a cause of infertility (McClam et al. Biol Reprod. 106:328-37, 2022; Marteil et al. Reprod Biol. 9:203-24, 2009; Krisher. J Anim Sci. 82: E14-E23, 2004). Thus, it is critical to determine the quantity and quality of surviving follicles in the ovary after cancer treatment and to assess oocyte quality within those surviving follicles as these are markers for determining the capacity for ovarian function restoration and future fertility, especially for young cancer survivors (Xu et al. Nat Med. 17:1562-3, 2011). The long-term effects of cancer therapeutics on oocyte quality are influenced by factors including, but not limited to, individual patient characteristics (e.g. age, health history, comorbidities, etc.), disease type, or treatment regimen (Marci et al. Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 16:1-112, 2018). These effects may translate clinically into an impaired production of viable oocytes and compromised fertility (Garutti et al. ESMO Open. 6:100276, 2021).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Olson Center for Women's Health, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- , Omaha, USA
| | - Amirhossein Abazarikia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Olson Center for Women's Health, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- , Omaha, USA
| | - Yi Luan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Olson Center for Women's Health, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- , Omaha, USA
| | - Seok-Yeong Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Olson Center for Women's Health, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
- , Omaha, USA
| | - So-Youn Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Olson Center for Women's Health, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
- , Omaha, USA.
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Amargant F, Zhou LT, Yuan Y, Nahar A, Krisher RL, Spate LD, Roberts RM, Prather RS, Rowell EE, Laronda MM, Duncan FE. FGF2, LIF, and IGF1 (FLI) supplementation during human in vitro maturation enhances markers of gamete competence. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:1938-1951. [PMID: 37608600 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead162] [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: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does a chemically defined maturation medium supplemented with FGF2, LIF, and IGF1 (FLI) improve in vitro maturation (IVM) of cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) obtained from children, adolescents, and young adults undergoing ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC)? SUMMARY ANSWER Although FLI supplementation did not increase the incidence of oocyte meiotic maturation during human IVM, it significantly improved quality outcomes, including increased cumulus cell expansion and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) expression as well as enhanced transzonal projection retraction. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY During OTC, COCs, and denuded oocytes from small antral follicles are released into the processing media. Recovery and IVM of these COCs is emerging as a complementary technique to maximize the fertility preservation potential of the tissue. However, the success of IVM is low, especially in the pediatric population. Supplementation of IVM medium with FLI quadruples the efficiency of pig production through improved oocyte maturation, but whether a similar benefit occurs in humans has not been investigated. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This study enrolled 75 participants between January 2018 and December 2021 undergoing clinical fertility preservation through the Fertility & Hormone Preservation & Restoration Program at the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago. Participants donated OTC media, accumulated during tissue processing, for research. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Participants who underwent OTC and include a pediatric population that encompassed children, adolescents, and young adults ≤22 years old. All participant COCs and denuded oocytes were recovered from media following ovarian tissue processing. IVM was then performed in either a standard medium (oocyte maturation medium) or one supplemented with FLI (FGF2; 40 ng/ml, LIF; 20 ng/ml, and IGF1; 20 ng/ml). IVM outcomes included meiotic progression, cumulus cell expansion, transzonal projection retraction, and detection of MAPK protein expression. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The median age of participants was 6.3 years, with 65% of them classified as prepubertal by Tanner staging. Approximately 60% of participants had been exposed to chemotherapy and/or radiation prior to OTC. On average 4.7 ± 1 COCs and/or denuded oocytes per participant were recovered from the OTC media. COCs (N = 41) and denuded oocytes (N = 29) were used for IVM (42 h) in a standard or FLI-supplemented maturation medium. The incidence of meiotic maturation was similar between cohorts (COCs: 25.0% vs 28.6% metaphase II arrested eggs in Control vs FLI; denuded oocytes: 0% vs 5.3% in Control vs FLI). However, cumulus cell expansion was 1.9-fold greater in COCs matured in FLI-containing medium relative to Controls and transzonal projection retraction was more pronounced (2.45 ± 0.50 vs 1.16 ± 0.78 projections in Control vs FLIat 16 h). Additionally, MAPK expression was significantly higher in cumulus cells obtained from COCs matured in FLI medium for 16-18 h (chemiluminescence corrected area 621,678 vs 2,019,575 a.u., P = 0.03). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Our samples are from human participants who exhibited heterogeneity with respect to age, diagnosis, and previous treatment history. Future studies with larger sample sizes, including adult participants, are warranted to determine the mechanism by which FLI induces MAPK expression and activation. Moreover, studies that evaluate the developmental competence of eggs derived from FLI treatment, including assessment of embryos as outcome measures, will be required prior to clinical translation. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS FLI supplementation may have a conserved beneficial effect on IVM for children, adolescents, and young adults spanning the agricultural setting to clinical fertility preservation. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology startup funds (F.E.D.), Department of Surgery Faculty Practice Plan Grant and the Fertility & Hormone Preservation & Restoration Program at the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago (M.M.L. and E.E.R.). M.M.L. is a Gesualdo Foundation Research Scholar. Y.Y.'s research is supported by the internal research funds provided by Colorado Center of Reproductive Medicine. Y.Y., L.D.S., R.M.R., and R.S.P. have a patent pending for FLI. The remaining authors have no conflict of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farners Amargant
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Luhan T Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ye Yuan
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, CO, USA
| | - Asrafun Nahar
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, CO, USA
| | | | - Lee D Spate
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - R Michael Roberts
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Randall S Prather
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Erin E Rowell
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Monica M Laronda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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Bewtra C, Acharya N. Preservation of Fertility in Cancer Patients: A Narrative Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e47910. [PMID: 38034134 PMCID: PMC10684029 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.47910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The survival rates for cancer patients have been steadily improving in recent years due to the improved efficacy of contemporary oncological care, including radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Modern technology makes it feasible to maintain fertility in cancer patients, and this practice needs to be included in oncological care. In many instances, it is impossible to avoid the harm that cancer treatments can cause to a patient's fertility; hence, research in fertility preservation techniques is being conducted to allow cancer patients to have future children biologically related to them. The development of fertility preservation approaches has grown in importance in the field of research over the past few years to increase patient's quality of life and survival. Oncologists must be aware of circumstances in which cancer patients' fertility will be impacted by their therapy and the avenues open for procedures like cryopreservation of the gametes or embryos. When cancer therapy is scheduled, all patients should receive prompt and thorough information on the fertility-related side effects of treatment and the prospects for fertility preservation. The article analyzes the literature, enlisting the factors that contribute to cancer and their effects on fertility, followed by a list of available and newly developed strategies for maintaining fertility in patients. The efficiency of the various fertility preservation techniques following cancer therapy is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chehak Bewtra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education & Research (Deemed to be University), Wardha, IND
| | - Neema Acharya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education & Research (Deemed to be University), Wardha, IND
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Dong Z, Zhang L, Wang W, Jiang F, Ai H. ZnSO 4 Protects against premature ovarian failure through PI3K/AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway. Theriogenology 2023; 207:61-71. [PMID: 37269597 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.05.023] [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: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and plays a crucial role in the female reproductive system. We aimed to investigate the protective effect of ZnSO4 on premature ovarian failure (POF) in SD rats and granulosa cells (GCs) treated with cisplatin. We also explored the underlying mechanisms. In vivo experiments showed that ZnSO4 increased the serum levels of Zn2+, increased estrogen (E2) secretion, and decreased follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion in rats. ZnSO4 increased ovarian index, protected ovarian tissues and blood vessels, reduced excessive follicular atresia, and maintained follicular development. At the same time, ZnSO4 inhibited apoptosis in the ovaries. In vitro experiments showed that ZnSO4 combination treatment restored the intracellular levels of Zn2+ and inhibited the apoptosis of GCs. ZnSO4 inhibited cisplatin-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and preserved mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). We also found that ZnSO4 protected against POF by activating the PI3K/AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway and reducing apoptosis of GCs. These data suggest that ZnSO4 may be a potential therapeutic agent for protecting the ovaries and preserving fertility during chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Dong
- Graduate School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China; Key Laboratory of Follicular Development and Reproductive Health of Liaoning Province, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Graduate School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Graduate School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China
| | - Fan Jiang
- Graduate School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China
| | - Hao Ai
- Graduate School, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China; Key Laboratory of Follicular Development and Reproductive Health of Liaoning Province, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning Province, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China.
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10
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Tanase A, Ciocoiu M, Tănase G. Fertility options after chemotherapy in young premenopausal patients. ACTA ENDOCRINOLOGICA (BUCHAREST, ROMANIA : 2005) 2023; 19:398-402. [PMID: 38356982 PMCID: PMC10863951 DOI: 10.4183/aeb.2023.398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Context Infertility affects more and more younger patients nowadays. Life-saving cancer treatments - chemotherapy and radiation therapy unfortunately damage oocytes and reduce the window of fertility in women. There were an estimated 14.1 million cases of cancer worldwide in 2012, of which 6.7 million were in women. Aim We are reviewing fertility options and treatments for women fighting oncological diseases. It is important to promote that there is a possibility for these patients to know all they can do in order to preserve their fertility and our government should help all these young patients.The trend of delayed childbearing has increased worldwide duet o increased life costs, difficulty of finding a suitable partner and carier options, while the number of women facing a cancer diagnosis is rising. Material and methods We describe a review regarding the impact of these treatments for the fertility of these patients. Results Show that informed patients can better cope with their diagnostic and have a better prognosis. Conclusions Improving survival rates and current data have created a new medical field oncofertility. The term was first introduced in 2015 and is being used all over clinics that treat young patients nowadays.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Tanase
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Grigore T Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi
| | - M. Ciocoiu
- Pathophysiology, “Grigore T Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi
| | - G.V. Tănase
- Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Unit, Iasi, Romania
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Alesi LR, Nguyen QN, Stringer JM, Winship AL, Hutt KJ. The future of fertility preservation for women treated with chemotherapy. REPRODUCTION AND FERTILITY 2023; 4:RAF-22-0123. [PMID: 37068157 PMCID: PMC10235927 DOI: 10.1530/raf-22-0123] [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: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Cytotoxic chemotherapies have been a mainstay of cancer treatment, but are associated with numerous systemic adverse effects, including impacts to fertility and endocrine health. Irreversible ovarian damage and follicle depletion are side-effects of chemotherapy that can lead to infertility and premature menopause, both being major concerns of young cancer patients. Notably, many women will proceed with fertility preservation, but unfortunately existing strategies don't entirely solve the problem. Most significantly, oocyte and embryo freezing do not prevent cancer treatment-induced ovarian damage from occurring, which may result in the impairment of long-term hormone production. Unfortunately, loss of endogenous endocrine function is not fully restored by hormone replacement therapy. Additionally, while GnRH agonists are standard care for patients receiving alkylating chemotherapy to lessen the risk of premature menopause, their efficacy is incomplete. The lack of more broadly effective options stems, in part, from our poor understanding of how different treatments damage the ovary. Here, we summarise the impacts of two commonly utilised chemotherapies - cyclophosphamide and cisplatin - on ovarian function and fertility, and discuss the mechanisms underpinning this damage. Additionally, we critically analyse current research avenues in the development of novel fertility preservation strategies, with a focus on fertoprotective agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren R Alesi
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Quynh-Nhu Nguyen
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Paediatric Integrated Cancer Service, VIC, Australia
| | - Jessica M Stringer
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Amy L Winship
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Karla J Hutt
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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Castiglione Morelli MA, Iuliano A, Matera I, Viggiani L, Schettini SCA, Colucci P, Ostuni A. A Pilot Study on Biochemical Profile of Follicular Fluid in Breast Cancer Patients. Metabolites 2023; 13:metabo13030441. [PMID: 36984881 PMCID: PMC10054828 DOI: 10.3390/metabo13030441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most common type of cancer among women in almost all countries worldwide and is one of the oncological pathologies for which is indicated fertility preservation, a type of procedure used to help keep a person's ability to have children. Follicular fluid (FF) is a major component of oocyte microenvironment, which is involved in oocyte growth, follicular maturation, and in communication between germ and somatic cells; furthermore, it accumulates all metabolites during oocytes growth. To obtain information about changes on fertility due to cancer, we aimed at investigating potential biomarkers to discriminate between FF samples obtained from 16 BC patients and 10 healthy women undergoing in vitro fertilization treatments. An NMR-based metabolomics approach was performed to investigate the FF metabolic profiles; ELISA and western blotting assays were used to investigate protein markers of oxidative and inflammatory stress, which are processes closely related to cancer. Our results seem to suggest that FFs of BC women display some significant metabolic alterations in comparison to healthy controls, and these variations are also related with tumor staging.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Assunta Iuliano
- Center for Reproductive Medicine of "San Carlo" Hospital, 85100 Potenza, Italy
| | - Ilenia Matera
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy
| | - Licia Viggiani
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy
| | | | - Paola Colucci
- Center for Reproductive Medicine of "San Carlo" Hospital, 85100 Potenza, Italy
| | - Angela Ostuni
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy
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13
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Takeuchi H, Maezawa T, Hagiwara K, Horage Y, Hanada T, Haipeng H, Sakamoto M, Nishioka M, Takayama E, Terada K, Kondo E, Takai Y, Suzuki N, Ikeda T. Investigation of an efficient method of oocyte retrieval by dual stimulation for patients with cancer. Reprod Med Biol 2023; 22:e12534. [PMID: 37601482 PMCID: PMC10433114 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To examine the optimal timing of second ovarian stimulation using the dual stimulation method for good ovarian responders with cancer undergoing oocyte retrieval for fertility preservation. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted using data from 69 patients with cancer who underwent oocyte retrieval for fertility preservation at four Japanese institutions during 2010-2021. Twenty-two patients underwent two oocyte retrievals for fertility preservation. We studied the relationship between the initial number of oocytes retrieved via dual stimulation and risk of ovarian enlargement as well as the appropriate waiting interval between the end of the first ovarian stimulation and beginning of the second ovarian stimulation. Results The risk of ovarian enlargement was high when the initial number of oocytes retrieved via dual stimulation was ≥5. An 8-day waiting interval may be more effective for performing a second ovarian stimulation oocyte retrieval in these cases, although the difference was not significant. Conclusions This study provides one policy for effectively managing ovarian enlargement and timing of second ovarian stimulation during oocyte retrieval via the dual stimulation method for patients with cancer undergoing fertility preservation. If more facilities implement this procedure, more oocytes may be obtained in a short period for fertility preservation purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Takeuchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineMie UniversityTsuJapan
| | - Tadashi Maezawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineMie UniversityTsuJapan
| | | | - Yuki Horage
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySt. Marianna University School of MedicineKawasakiJapan
| | - Tetsuro Hanada
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyShiga University of Medical ScienceOtsuJapan
| | - Huang Haipeng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical CenterSaitama Medical UniversityKawagoeJapan
| | - Mito Sakamoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineMie UniversityTsuJapan
| | - Mikiko Nishioka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineMie UniversityTsuJapan
| | - Erina Takayama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineMie UniversityTsuJapan
| | - Kento Terada
- Advanced Reproductive Medical CenterMie‐University HospitalTsuJapan
| | - Eiji Kondo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineMie UniversityTsuJapan
| | - Yasushi Takai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical CenterSaitama Medical UniversityKawagoeJapan
| | - Nao Suzuki
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySt. Marianna University School of MedicineKawasakiJapan
| | - Tomoaki Ikeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineMie UniversityTsuJapan
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Barriers to Oncofertility Care among Female Adolescent Cancer Patients in Canada. Curr Oncol 2022; 29:1583-1593. [PMID: 35323333 PMCID: PMC8947634 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol29030133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
High survival rates in adolescent cancer patients have shifted the medical focus to the long-term outcomes of cancer treatments. Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation increase the risk of infertility and infertility-related distress in adolescent cancer patients and survivors. The aims of this narrative review were to (1) describe the psychosocial impacts of cancer-related infertility in adolescents, (2) identify multilevel barriers to fertility preservation (FP) conversations and referrals, and (3) conclude with evidence-based clinical solutions for improving the oncofertility support available to Canadian adolescents. The results of this review revealed that FP decisions occur within the patient, parent, and health care provider (HCP) triad, and are influenced by factors such as parent attitudes, patient maturity, and HCP knowledge. Decision tools and HCP education can promote the occurrence of developmentally appropriate fertility discussions. At the systems level, cost and resource barriers prevent patients from receiving sufficient fertility information and referrals. Clinical models of care (MOCs) can define interdisciplinary roles and referral pathways to improve the integration of oncofertility services into adolescent cancer care. The continued integration of oncofertility care will ensure that all Canadian adolescents receive the exemplary medical and psychological support necessary to make empowered decisions about their own fertility.
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