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Thapliyal A, Tomar AK, Naglot S, Dhiman S, Datta SK, Sharma JB, Singh N, Yadav S. Exploring Differentially Expressed Sperm miRNAs in Idiopathic Recurrent Pregnancy Loss and Their Association with Early Embryonic Development. Noncoding RNA 2024; 10:41. [PMID: 39051375 PMCID: PMC11270218 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna10040041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2024] [Revised: 07/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The high incidence of idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss (iRPL) may stem from the limited research on male contributory factors. Many studies suggest that sperm DNA fragmentation and oxidative stress contribute to iRPL, but their roles are still debated. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non-coding RNAs that regulate various biological processes by modulating gene expression. While differential expression of specific miRNAs has been observed in women suffering from recurrent miscarriages, paternal miRNAs remain unexplored. We hypothesize that analyzing sperm miRNAs can provide crucial insights into the pathophysiology of iRPL. Therefore, this study aims to identify dysregulated miRNAs in the spermatozoa of male partners of iRPL patients. Total mRNA was extracted from sperm samples of iRPL and control groups, followed by miRNA library preparation and high-output miRNA sequencing. Subsequently, raw sequence reads were processed for differential expression analysis, target prediction, and bioinformatics analysis. Twelve differentially expressed miRNAs were identified in the iRPL group, with eight miRNAs upregulated (hsa-miR-4454, hsa-miR-142-3p, hsa-miR-145-5p, hsa-miR-1290, hsa-miR-1246, hsa-miR-7977, hsa-miR-449c-5p, and hsa-miR-92b-3p) and four downregulated (hsa-miR-29c-3p, hsa-miR-30b-5p, hsa-miR-519a-2-5p, and hsa-miR-520b-5p). Functional enrichment analysis revealed that gene targets of the upregulated miRNAs are involved in various biological processes closely associated with sperm quality and embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayushi Thapliyal
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Anil Kumar Tomar
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Sarla Naglot
- Division of Reproductive, Child Health and Nutrition, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Soniya Dhiman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Sudip Kumar Datta
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Jai Bhagwan Sharma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Neeta Singh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India
| | - Savita Yadav
- Department of Biophysics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029, India
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Rokhsartalab Azar P, Maleki Aghdam M, Karimi S, Haghtalab A, Sadeghpour S, Mellatyar H, Taheri-Anganeh M, Ghasemnejad-Berenji H. Uterine fluid microRNAs in repeated implantation failure. Clin Chim Acta 2024; 558:119678. [PMID: 38641194 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2024.119678] [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: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is a significant obstacle in assisted reproductive procedures, primarily because of compromised receptivity. As such, there is a need for a dependable and accurate clinical test to evaluate endometrial receptiveness, particularly during embryo transfer. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have diverse functions in the processes of implantation and pregnancy. Dysregulation of miRNAs results in reproductive diseases such as recurrent implantation failure (RIF). The endometrium secretes several microRNAs (miRNAs) during the implantation period, which could potentially indicate whether the endometrium is suitable for in vitro fertilization (IVF). The goal of this review is to examine endometrial miRNAs as noninvasive biomarkers that successfully predict endometrium receptivity in RIF.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mahdi Maleki Aghdam
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Sarmad Karimi
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Arian Haghtalab
- School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Sonia Sadeghpour
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran; Reproductive Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | | | - Mortaza Taheri-Anganeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Hojat Ghasemnejad-Berenji
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
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Shen L, Zeng H, Fu Y, Ma W, Guo X, Luo G, Hua R, Wang X, Shi X, Wu B, Luo C, Quan S. Specific plasma microRNA profiles could be potential non-invasive biomarkers for biochemical pregnancy loss following embryo transfer. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:351. [PMID: 38720272 PMCID: PMC11080217 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-024-06488-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plasma microRNAs act as biomarkers for predicting and diagnosing diseases. Reliable non-invasive biomarkers for biochemical pregnancy loss have not been established. We aim to analyze the dynamic microRNA profiles during the peri-implantation period and investigate if plasma microRNAs could be non-invasive biomarkers predicting BPL. METHODS In this study, we collected plasma samples from patients undergoing embryo transfer (ET) on ET day (ET0), 11 days after ET (ET11), and 14 days after ET (ET14). Patients were divided into the NP (negative pregnancy), BPL (biochemical pregnancy loss), and CP (clinical pregnancy) groups according to serum hCG levels at day11~14 and ultrasound at day28~35 following ET. MicroRNA profiles at different time-points were detected by miRNA-sequencing. We analyzed plasma microRNA signatures for BPL at the peri-implantation stage, we characterized the dynamic microRNA changes during the implantation period, constructed a microRNA co-expression network, and established predictive models for BPL. Finally, the sequencing results were confirmed by Taqman RT-qPCR. RESULTS BPL patients have distinct plasma microRNA profiles compared to CP patients at multiple time-points during the peri-implantation period. Machine learning models revealed that plasma microRNAs could predict BPL. RT-qPCR confirmed that miR-181a-2-3p, miR-9-5p, miR-150-3p, miR-150-5p, and miR-98-5p, miR-363-3p were significantly differentially expressed between patients with different reproductive outcomes. CONCLUSION Our study highlights the non-invasive value of plasma microRNAs in predicting BPL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lang Shen
- Reproductive Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, NanFang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Hong Zeng
- Reproductive Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, NanFang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Foshan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, 528000, China
| | - Yu Fu
- Reproductive Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, NanFang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Wenmin Ma
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Foshan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, 528000, China
| | - Xiaoling Guo
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Foshan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, 528000, China
| | - Guoqun Luo
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Foshan Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan, 528000, China
| | - Rui Hua
- Reproductive Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, NanFang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Xiaocong Wang
- Reproductive Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, NanFang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Xiao Shi
- Reproductive Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, NanFang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Biao Wu
- Reproductive Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, NanFang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Chen Luo
- Reproductive Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, NanFang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Song Quan
- Reproductive Center of Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, NanFang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
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Au LS, Feng Q, Shingshetty L, Maheshwari A, Mol BW. Evaluating prognosis in unexplained infertility. Fertil Steril 2024; 121:717-729. [PMID: 38423380 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2024.02.044] [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: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE The diagnosis of unexplained infertility presents a dilemma as it signifies both uncertainty about the cause of infertility and the potential for natural conception. Immediate treatment of all would result in overtreatment. Prediction models estimating the likelihood of natural conception and subsequent live birth can guide treatment decisions. OBJECTIVE To evaluate if in couples with unexplained infertility, prediction models are effective in guiding treatment decisions. EVIDENCE REVIEW This review examines 25 studies that assess prediction models for natural conception in couples with unexplained infertility in terms of derivation, validation, and impact analysis. FINDINGS The largest prediction models have been integrated in the synthesis models of Hunault, which includes female age and infertility duration, having been pregnant before and motile sperm percentage. Despite its limited discriminative capacity, this model demonstrates excellent calibration. Importantly, the impact of the Hunault model has been evaluated in randomized clinical trials, and shows that in couples with unexplained infertility and 12-month natural conception chances exceeding 30%, immediate treatment with intrauterine insemination (IUI) and controlled ovarian hyperstimulation is not better than expectant management for 6 months. Below the threshold of 30%, treatment with IUI is superior over expectant management, but immediate in vitro fertilization was not better than IUI. CONCLUSION In couples with unexplained infertility and a good prognosis for natural conception, treatment can be delayed, whereas in couples with a poor prognosis, immediate treatment (with IUI-controlled ovarian hyperstimulation) is warranted. RELEVANCE These data indicate that in couples with unexplained infertility, integration of prediction models into clinical decision making can optimize treatment selection and maximize fertility outcomes while limiting unnecessary treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Shan Au
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Qian Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Laxmi Shingshetty
- Aberdeen Centre of Reproductive Medicine, NHS Grampian, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Abha Maheshwari
- Aberdeen Centre of Reproductive Medicine, NHS Grampian, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Ben W Mol
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Aberdeen Centre for Women's Health Research, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom.
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Chettiar V, Patel A, Chettiar SS, Jhala DD. Meta-analysis of endometrial transcriptome data reveals novel molecular targets for recurrent implantation failure. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:1417-1431. [PMID: 38456991 PMCID: PMC11143096 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03077-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: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Gene expression analysis of the endometrium has been shown to be a useful approach for identifying the molecular signatures and pathways involved in recurrent implantation failure (RIF). Nevertheless, individual studies have limitations in terms of study design, methodology and analysis to detect minor changes in expression levels or identify novel gene signatures associated with RIF. METHOD To overcome this, we conducted an in silico meta-analysis of nine studies, the systematic collection and integration of gene expression data, utilizing rigorous selection criteria and statistical techniques to ensure the robustness of our findings. RESULTS Our meta-analysis successfully unveiled a meta-signature of 49 genes closely associated with RIF. Of these genes, 38 were upregulated and 11 downregulated in RIF patients' endometrium and believed to participate in key processes like cell differentiation, communication, and adhesion. GADD45A, IGF2, and LIF, known for their roles in implantation, were identified, along with lesser-studied genes like OPRK1, PSIP1, SMCHD1, and SOD2 related to female infertility. Many of these genes are involved in MAPK and PI3K-Akt pathways, indicating their role in inflammation. We also investigated to look for key miRNAs regulating these 49 dysregulated mRNAs as potential diagnostic biomarkers. Along with this, we went to associate protein-protein interactions of 49 genes, and we could recognize one cluster consisting of 11 genes (consisted of 22 nodes and 11 edges) with the highest score (p = 0.001). Finally, we validated some of the genes by qRT-PCR in our samples. CONCLUSION In summary, the meta-signature genes hold promise for improving RIF patient identification and facilitating the development of personalized treatment strategies, illuminating the multifaceted nature of this complex condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venkatlaxmi Chettiar
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
| | - Alpesh Patel
- GeneXplore Diagnostics and Research Centre PVT. LTD., Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
| | | | - Devendrasinh D Jhala
- Department of Zoology, School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India.
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Fathi M, Omrani MA, Kadkhoda S, Ghahghaei-Nezamabadi A, Ghafouri-Fard S. Impact of miRNAs in the pathoetiology of recurrent implantation failure. Mol Cell Probes 2024; 74:101955. [PMID: 38479679 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcp.2024.101955] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is a condition with a multifactorial basis. Recent research has focused on the role of genetic factors in the pathophysiology of RIF. Of particular note, miRNAs have been found to contribute to the pathogenesis of RIF. Several miRNA polymorphisms have been investigated in this context. Moreover, dysregulation of expression of a number of miRNAs, including miR-374a-5p, miR-145-5p, miR-30b-5p, miR-196b-5p, miR-22, miR-181 and miR-145 has been found in RIF. This review concentrates on the role of miRNAs in RIF to help in identification of the molecular basis for this condition and design of more effective methods for management of RIF, especially in a personalized manner that relies on the expression profiles of miRNAs in the peripheral blood or endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohadeseh Fathi
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amin Omrani
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center (UNRC), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sepideh Kadkhoda
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center (UNRC), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Akram Ghahghaei-Nezamabadi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Arash Women's Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soudeh Ghafouri-Fard
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Strbo N, Rodriguez S, Padula L, Fisher E, Lyons A, Rodriguez C, Rivas K, Ibrahim M, Paidas M, Attia G. Assessment of immune cells in the uterine fluid at the time of the embryo transfer. Am J Reprod Immunol 2024; 91:e13842. [PMID: 38650366 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Although endometrial receptivity is a key factor in influencing implantation in both naturally conceived and assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles, very little is known about the endometrium milieu around the time of implantation. Previous studies have demonstrated the presence of several cytokines in the endometrium that affect implantation. However, there is lacking data about the presence of immune cell subtypes within the endometrium and in the uterine cavity at the time of implantation. METHOD OF STUDY This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board (# 225589). The study was designed as a prospective observational cohort study between May 2021 and December 2022 at a single academic-based fertility center. All patients underwent at least one In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) cycle and have frozen embryos. Twenty-four participants were recruited for this study which was conducted during the frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle regardless of the outcome of previous cycles. Two samples were acquired from each subject, denoted as lower and upper. A trial transfer catheter was introduced under ultrasound guidance into the lower uterine segment. Upon removal, the tip was rinsed in IMDM medium containing 10% FBS (lower uterus). A transfer catheter was then loaded with the embryo that was placed in the upper uterus under ultrasound guidance. The tip of the transfer catheter was rinsed in separate aliquot of the above media (upper uterus). After centrifugation, pelleted cells were stained for the following surface markers: CD45, CD3, CD19, CD4, CD8, gamma delta TCR, CD25, CD127, CD66b, CD14, CD16, CD56 and acquired on Sony SP6800 Spectral Analyzer. RESULTS Upon staining the pelleted cells, we were able to identify viable leukocytes from samples obtained from both, upper and lower uterus (0.125 × 106 cells ± SD 0.32), (0.123 × 106 cells ± SD 0.12), respectively. Among total viable cells, there was no significant difference in both percent and number of CD45+ cells between the upper and lower uterus (9.88% ± 6.98 SD, 13.67% ± 9.79 SD, p = .198) respectively. However, there was significantly higher expression of CD3+ (p = .006), CD19+ (p = .032) and CD14+ (p = .019) cells in samples collected from upper compared to lower uterus. Within all CD3+ cells, we found that gamma delta T cells (GDT) were the major population of T cells in both upper and lower uterus. In contrast, CD8+ T cells were significantly higher in the lower uterus when compared to the upper uterus (p = .009). There was no statistically significant difference in the expression of CD4+ T cells, T regulatory cells (CD4+CD25+CD127-), NK cells (CD56+), neutrophils (CD66b+) and FcγRIII+ cells (CD16+) between upper and lower uterus. CONCLUSIONS We believe the immune milieu at the time of embryo transfer will affect implantation. Understanding the composition of immune cells will guide further research in identifying optimal immune milieus that favor implantation. Comprehensive analysis of endometrium is expected to lead to new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to improve IVF outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasa Strbo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Suset Rodriguez
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, and Infertility, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Laura Padula
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Eva Fisher
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Annabel Lyons
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Carolina Rodriguez
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Katelyn Rivas
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Mohammed Ibrahim
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, and Infertility, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Michael Paidas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, and Infertility, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - George Attia
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, and Infertility, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
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Lacconi V, Massimiani M, Carriero I, Bianco C, Ticconi C, Pavone V, Alteri A, Muzii L, Rago R, Pisaturo V, Campagnolo L. When the Embryo Meets the Endometrium: Identifying the Features Required for Successful Embryo Implantation. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2834. [PMID: 38474081 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Evaluation of the optimal number of embryos, their quality, and the precise timing for transfer are critical determinants in reproductive success, although still remaining one of the main challenges in assisted reproduction technologies (ART). Indeed, the success of in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments relies on a multitude of events and factors involving both the endometrium and the embryo. Despite concerted efforts on both fronts, the overall success rates of IVF techniques continue to range between 25% and 30%. The role of the endometrium in implantation has been recently recognized, leading to the hypothesis that both the "soil" and the "seed" play a central role in a successful pregnancy. In this respect, identification of the molecular signature of endometrial receptivity together with the selection of the best embryo for transfer become crucial in ART. Currently, efforts have been made to develop accurate, predictive, and personalized tests to identify the window of implantation and the best quality embryo. However, the value of these tests is still debated, as conflicting results are reported in the literature. The purpose of this review is to summarize and critically report the available criteria to optimize the success of embryo transfer and to better understand current limitations and potential areas for improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Lacconi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Via di Sant'Alessandro 8, 00131 Rome, Italy
| | - Micol Massimiani
- Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Via di Sant'Alessandro 8, 00131 Rome, Italy
| | - Ilenia Carriero
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Bianco
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Ticconi
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Section of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Pavone
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Alteri
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Ludovico Muzii
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Policlinico Umberto I, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Rocco Rago
- Physiopathology of Reproduction and Andrology Unit, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Via dei Monti Tiburtini 385/389, 00157 Rome, Italy
| | - Valerio Pisaturo
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Policlinico Umberto I, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Campagnolo
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
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Cho SH, Kim YM, An HJ, Kim JH, Kim NK. miR-665-Mediated Regulation of AHCYL2 and BVES Genes in Recurrent Implantation Failure. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:244. [PMID: 38397233 PMCID: PMC10888078 DOI: 10.3390/genes15020244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The primary goal of this investigation was to identify mRNA targets affected by dysregulated miRNAs in RIF. This was accomplished by comprehensively analyzing mRNA and miRNA expression profiles in two groups: female subjects with normal reproductive function (control, n = 5) and female subjects experiencing recurrent implantation failure (RIF, n = 5). We conducted transcriptome sequencing and small RNA sequencing on endometrial tissue samples from these cohorts. Subsequently, we validated a selection of intriguing findings using real-time PCR with samples from the same cohort. In total, our analysis revealed that 929 mRNAs exhibited differential expression patterns between the control and RIF patient groups. Notably, our investigation confirmed the significant involvement of dysregulated genes in the context of RIF. Furthermore, we uncovered promising correlation patterns within these mRNA/miRNA pairs. Functional categorization of these miRNA/mRNA pairs highlighted that the differentially expressed genes were predominantly associated with processes such as angiogenesis and cell adhesion. We identified new target genes that are regulated by miR-665, including Blood Vessel Epicardial Substance (BVES) and Adenosylhomocysteinase like 2 (AHCYL2). Our findings suggest that abnormal regulation of genes involved in angiogenesis and cell adhesion, including BVES and AHCYL2, contributes to the endometrial dysfunction observed in women with recurrent implantation failure (RIF) compared to healthy women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung Hwan Cho
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam 13488, Republic of Korea; (S.H.C.); (H.J.A.)
- College of Medicine, Konyang University, Daejeon 35365, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Myeong Kim
- Kangwon Institute of Inclusive Technology, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea;
| | - Hui Jeong An
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam 13488, Republic of Korea; (S.H.C.); (H.J.A.)
- College of Life Science, Gangneung-Wonju National University, Gangneung 25457, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Hyang Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, School of Medicine, CHA University, Seongnam 13496, Republic of Korea
| | - Nam Keun Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Life Science, CHA University, Seongnam 13488, Republic of Korea; (S.H.C.); (H.J.A.)
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10
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Dehghan Z, Rezaee D, Noori E, Pilehchi T, Saberi F, Taheri Z, Darya G, Mehdinejadiani S. Exosomes as modulators of embryo implantation. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:284. [PMID: 38324178 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09282-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Exosomes, known as extracellular vehicles (EVs), are found in biological fluids. They have the capability to carry and transfer signaling molecules, such as nucleic acids and proteins, facilitating intercellular communication and regulating the gene expression profile in target cells. EVs have the potential to be used as biomarkers in diagnosis, prognosis and also as feasible therapeutic targets. The available evidence suggests that exosomes play critical roles in the reproductive system, particularly during implantation, which is widely recognized as a crucial step in early pregnancy. A proper molecular dialogue between a high-quality embryo and a receptive endometrium is essential for the establishment of a normal pregnancy. This review focuses on the key role of exosomes originated from various sources, including the embryo, seminal fluid, and uterus fluid, based on the available evidence. It explores their potential applications as a novel approach in assisted reproductive technologies (ART).
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Dehghan
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Delsuz Rezaee
- School of Allied Medical Sciences, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Effat Noori
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tayyebeh Pilehchi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Saberi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Taheri
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Pavia University, Pavia, Italy
| | - Gholamhossein Darya
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Shayesteh Mehdinejadiani
- Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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11
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Chico-Sordo L, Ruiz-Martínez T, Toribio M, González-Martín R, Spagnolo E, Domínguez F, Hernández A, García-Velasco JA. Identification of miR-30c-5p microRNA in Serum as a Candidate Biomarker to Diagnose Endometriosis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1853. [PMID: 38339132 PMCID: PMC10855247 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The diagnosis of endometriosis by laparoscopy is delayed until advanced stages. In recent years, microRNAs have emerged as novel biomarkers for different diseases. These molecules are small non-coding RNA sequences involved in the regulation of gene expression and can be detected in peripheral blood. Our aim was to identify candidate serum microRNAs associated with endometriosis and their role as minimally invasive biomarkers. Serum samples were obtained from 159 women, of whom 77 were diagnosed with endometriosis by laparoscopy and 82 were healthy women. First, a preliminary study identified 29 differentially expressed microRNAs between the two study groups. Next, nine of the differentially expressed microRNAs in the preliminary analysis were evaluated in a new cohort of 67 women with endometriosis and 72 healthy women. Upon validation by quantitative real-time PCR technique, the circulating level of miR-30c-5p was significantly higher in the endometriosis group compared with the healthy women group. The area under the curve value of miR-30c-5p was 0.8437, demonstrating its diagnostic potential even when serum samples registered an acceptable limit of hemolysis. Dysregulation of this microRNA was associated with molecular pathways related to cancer and neuronal processes. We concluded that miR-30c-5p is a potential minimally invasive biomarker of endometriosis, with higher expression in the group of women with endometriosis diagnosed by laparoscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Chico-Sordo
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.C.-S.); (F.D.); (J.A.G.-V.)
| | | | - Mónica Toribio
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA Madrid, 28023 Madrid, Spain
| | - Roberto González-Martín
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.C.-S.); (F.D.); (J.A.G.-V.)
| | - Emanuela Spagnolo
- Gynaecology Department, La Paz University Hospital, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Domínguez
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.C.-S.); (F.D.); (J.A.G.-V.)
| | - Alicia Hernández
- Gynaecology Department, La Paz University Hospital, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan A. García-Velasco
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.C.-S.); (F.D.); (J.A.G.-V.)
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA Madrid, 28023 Madrid, Spain
- School of Health Sciences, Medical Specialties and Public Health, Obstetrics and Gynecology Area, Rey Juan Carlos University Alcorcón, 28922 Madrid, Spain
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12
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Yao K, Kang Q, Chen K, Shi B, Jin X. MiR-124-3p negatively impacts embryo implantation via suppressing uterine receptivity formation and embryo development. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2024; 22:16. [PMID: 38297297 PMCID: PMC10829223 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-024-01187-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
During embryo implantation, blastocyst interacts with the receptivity endometrium and the endometrial epithelium secretes nurturing fluid to support embryonic development. Interferon-λ (IFN-λ) is a novel, non-redundant regulator that participates in the fetal-maternal interaction; however, the precise molecular mechanism underlying its impact on uterine receptivity remains elusive. Here, microarray profiling revealed that 149 specific miRNAs were differentially expressed in the human endometrial cells following IFN-λ treatment. In particular, miR-124-3p expression was significantly reduced after IFN-λ treatment (p < 0.05). An in vivo mouse pregnancy model showed that miR-124-3p overexpression notably decreased embryo implantation rate and led to an aberrant epithelial phenotype. Furthermore, miR-124-3p negatively impacted the migration and proliferation of endometrial cells, and hindered embryonic developmental competence in terms of blastocyst formation and global DNA re-methylation. Downstream analysis showed that LIF, MUC1 and BCL2 are potential target genes for miR-124-3p, which was confirmed using western blotting and immunofluorescence assays. In conclusion, IFN-λ-driven downregulation of miR-124-3p during embryo implantation modulates uterine receptivity. The dual functional role of miR-124-3p suggests a cross-talk model wherein, maternal endometrial miRNA acts as a transcriptomic modifier of the peri-implantation endometrium and embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kezhen Yao
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 1 Xueshi Road, Hangzhou, China.
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics, Ministry of Education, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Quanmin Kang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics, Ministry of Education, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kai Chen
- China United Engineering Corporation Limited, Hangzhou, China
| | - Biwei Shi
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 1 Xueshi Road, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaofen Jin
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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13
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Zahir M, Tavakoli B, Zaki-Dizaji M, Hantoushzadeh S, Majidi Zolbin M. Non-coding RNAs in Recurrent implantation failure. Clin Chim Acta 2024; 553:117731. [PMID: 38128815 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2023.117731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failure (RIF), defined as the inability to achieve conception following multiple consecutive in-vitro fertilization (IVF) attempts, represents a complex and multifaceted challenge in reproductive medicine. The emerging role of non-coding RNAs in RIF etiopathogenesis has only gained prominence over the last decade, illustrating a new dimension to our understanding of the intricate network underlying RIF. Successful embryo implantation demands a harmonious synchronization between an adequately decidualized endometrium, a competent blastocyst, and effective maternal-embryonic interactions. Emerging evidence has clarified the involvement of a sophisticated network of non-coding RNAs, including microRNAs, circular RNAs, and long non-coding RNAs, in orchestrating these pivotal processes. Disconcerted expression of these molecules can disrupt the delicate equilibrium required for implantation, amplifying the risk of RIF. This comprehensive review presents an in-depth investigation of the complex role played by non-coding RNAs in the pathogenesis of RIF. Furthermore, it underscores the vast potential of non-coding RNAs as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets, with the ultimate goal of enhancing implantation success rates in IVF cycles. As ongoing research continues to unravel the intercalated web of molecular interactions, exploiting the power of non-coding RNAs may offer promising avenues for mitigating the challenges posed by RIF and improving the outcomes of assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mazyar Zahir
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Pediatric Urology and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Gene, Cell and Tissue Research Institute, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahareh Tavakoli
- Pediatric Urology and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Gene, Cell and Tissue Research Institute, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Biology, Maragheh University, Maragheh, Iran
| | - Majid Zaki-Dizaji
- Legal Medicine Research Center, Legal Medicine Organization, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sedigheh Hantoushzadeh
- Vali-E-Asr Reproductive Health Research Center, Family Health Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Masoumeh Majidi Zolbin
- Pediatric Urology and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Gene, Cell and Tissue Research Institute, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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14
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Hiraoka T, Osuga Y, Hirota Y. Current perspectives on endometrial receptivity: A comprehensive overview of etiology and treatment. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2023; 49:2397-2409. [PMID: 37527810 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) remains a challenging problem in assisted reproductive technology (ART). Further insights into uterine abnormalities that can disturb embryo implantation should be obtained. This review provides an overview of the effects of organic and non-organic uterine disorders on endometrial receptivity. The results suggest that various uterine pathologies can lead to defective embryo implantation via multiple mechanisms. In particular, uterine adenomyosis dysregulates molecular and cellular interactions that are vital for successful embryo implantation with a background of chronic inflammation, which may be alleviated by pretreatment with a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist. Uterine myomas can cause endometrial deformation and adverse alterations in uterine contractility. Nonetheless, the effectiveness of myomectomy remains debated, and endometrial polyp removal may be considered, particularly in patients with RIF. Chronic endometritis abrogates the appropriate uterine immunological environment critical for embryo implantation. Abnormal endometrial microbiota have been suggested to influence endometrial receptivity; however, supporting evidence is currently scarce. Platelet-rich plasma therapy may be a potential treatment for thin endometria; nevertheless, further validation is required. Endometrial receptivity analysis can detect dysregulation of the window of implantation, and new non-invasive methods for predicting endometrial receptivity have recently been proposed. However, numerous issues still need to be fully clarified. Further clinical and basic studies are necessary to investigate the pathophysiology of defective endometrial receptivity and identify optimal treatments for patients undergoing ART, especially those with RIF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takehiro Hiraoka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasushi Hirota
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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15
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Parraga-Leo A, Sebastian-Leon P, Devesa-Peiro A, Marti-Garcia D, Pellicer N, Remohi J, Dominguez F, Diaz-Gimeno P. Deciphering a shared transcriptomic regulation and the relative contribution of each regulator type through endometrial gene expression signatures. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:84. [PMID: 37700285 PMCID: PMC10496172 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01131-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGORUND While various endometrial biomarkers have been characterized at the transcriptomic and functional level, there is generally a poor overlap among studies, making it unclear to what extent their upstream regulators (e.g., ovarian hormones, transcription factors (TFs) and microRNAs (miRNAs)) realistically contribute to menstrual cycle progression and function. Unmasking the intricacies of the molecular interactions in the endometrium from a novel systemic point of view will help gain a more accurate perspective of endometrial regulation and a better explanation the molecular etiology of endometrial-factor infertility. METHODS An in-silico analysis was carried out to identify which regulators consistently target the gene biomarkers proposed in studies related to endometrial progression and implantation failure (19 gene lists/signatures were included). The roles of these regulators, and of genes related to progesterone and estrogens, were then analysed in transcriptomic datasets compiled from samples collected throughout the menstrual cycle (n = 129), and the expression of selected TFs were prospectively validated in an independent cohort of healthy participants (n = 19). RESULTS A total of 3,608 distinct genes from the 19 gene lists were associated with endometrial progression and implantation failure. The lists' regulation was significantly favoured by TFs (89% (17/19) of gene lists) and progesterone (47% (8 /19) of gene lists), rather than miRNAs (5% (1/19) of gene lists) or estrogen (0% (0/19) of gene lists), respectively (FDR < 0.05). Exceptionally, two gene lists that were previously associated with implantation failure and unexplained infertility were less hormone-dependent, but primarily regulated by estrogen. Although endometrial progression genes were mainly targeted by hormones rather than non-hormonal contributors (odds ratio = 91.94, FDR < 0.05), we identified 311 TFs and 595 miRNAs not previously associated with ovarian hormones. We highlight CTCF, GATA6, hsa-miR-15a-5p, hsa-miR-218-5p, hsa-miR-107, hsa-miR-103a-3p, and hsa-miR-128-3p, as overlapping novel master regulators of endometrial function. The gene expression changes of selected regulators throughout the menstrual cycle (FDR < 0.05), dually validated in-silico and through endometrial biopsies, corroborated their potential regulatory roles in the endometrium. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed novel hormonal and non-hormonal regulators and their relative contributions to endometrial progression and pathology, providing new leads for the potential causes of endometrial-factor infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Parraga-Leo
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Av. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026, Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Universidad de Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibáñez 15, 46010, Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Patricia Sebastian-Leon
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Av. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026, Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Almudena Devesa-Peiro
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Av. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026, Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Universidad de Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibáñez 15, 46010, Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Diana Marti-Garcia
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Av. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026, Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Universidad de Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibáñez 15, 46010, Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Nuria Pellicer
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Av. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026, Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA Valencia, Plaza de La Policia Local 3, 46015, Valencia, Spain
| | - Jose Remohi
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Universidad de Valencia, Av. Blasco Ibáñez 15, 46010, Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA Valencia, Plaza de La Policia Local 3, 46015, Valencia, Spain
| | - Francisco Dominguez
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Av. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026, Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Patricia Diaz-Gimeno
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Av. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, Planta 1ª, 46026, Valencia, Valencia, Spain.
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16
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Segura-Benítez M, Bas-Rivas A, Juárez-Barber E, Carbajo-García MC, Faus A, De Los Santos MJ, Pellicer A, Ferrero H. Human blastocysts uptake extracellular vesicles secreted by endometrial cells containing miRNAs related to implantation. Hum Reprod 2023:dead138. [PMID: 37407281 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead138] [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: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are the extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by the maternal endometrium uptaken by human embryos and is their miRNA cargo involved in implantation and embryo development? SUMMARY ANSWER Data suggest that EVs secreted by human endometrial epithelial cells are internalized by human blastocysts, and transport miRNAs to modulate biological processes related to implantation events and early embryo development. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Successful implantation is dependent on coordination between maternal endometrium and embryo, and EVs role in the required cell-to-cell crosstalk has recently been established. In this regard, our group previously showed that protein cargo of EVs secreted by primary human endometrial epithelial cells (pHEECs) is implicated in biological processes related to endometrial receptivity, embryo implantation, and early embryo development. However, little is known about the regulation of these biological processes through EVs secreted by the endometrium at a transcriptomic level. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A prospective descriptive study was performed. Endometrial biopsies were collected from healthy oocyte donors with confirmed fertility on the day of oocyte retrieval, 36 h after the LH surge. pHEECs were isolated from endometrial biopsies (n = 8 in each pool) and cultured in vitro. Subsequently, conditioned medium was collected and EVs were isolated and characterized. Uptake of EVs by human blastocysts and miRNA cargo of these EVs (n = 3 pools) was analyzed. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS EVs were isolated from the conditioned culture media using ultracentrifugation, and characterization was performed using western blotting, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and transmission electron microscopy. EVs were fluorescently labeled with Bodipy-TR ceramide, and their uptake by human blastocysts was analyzed using confocal microscopy. Analysis of the miRNA cargo of EVs was performed using miRNA sequencing, target genes of the most expressed miRNA were annotated, and functional enrichment analysis was performed. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE EVs measured 100-300 nm in diameter, a concentration of 1.78 × 1011 ± 4.12 × 1010 (SD) particles/ml and expressed intraluminal protein markers Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) and Tumor Susceptibility Gene 101 (TSG101), in addition to CD9 and CD81 transmembrane proteins. Human blastocysts efficiently internalized fluorescent EVs within 1-2 h, and more pronounced internalization was observed in the hatched pole of the embryos. miRNA-seq analysis featured 149 annotated miRNAs, of which 37 were deemed most relevant. The latter had 6592 reported gene targets, that in turn, have functional implications in several processes related to embryo development, oxygen metabolism, cell cycle, cell differentiation, apoptosis, metabolism, cellular organization, and gene expression. Among the relevant miRNAs contained in these EVs, we highlight hsa-miR-92a-3p, hsa-let-7b-5p, hsa-miR-30a-5p, hsa-miR-24-3p, hsa-miR-21-5p, and hsa-let-7a-5p as master regulators of the biological processes. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This is an in vitro study in which conditions of endometrial cell culture could not mimic the intrauterine environment. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study defines potential biomarkers of endometrial receptivity and embryo competence that could be useful diagnostic and therapeutic targets for implantation success, as well as open insight further investigations to elucidate the molecular mechanisms implicated in a successful implantation. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by the Spanish Ministry of Education through FPU awarded to M.S.-B. (FPU18/03735), the Health Institute Carlos III awarded to E.J.-B. (FI19/00110) and awarded to H.F. by the Miguel Servet Program 'Fondo Social Europeo «El FSE invierte en tu futuro»' (CP20/00120), and Generalitat Valenciana through VALi+d Programme awarded to M.C.C.-G. (ACIF/2019/139). The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Segura-Benítez
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- Departamento de Pediatría, Obstetricia y Ginecología, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Alba Bas-Rivas
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - María Cristina Carbajo-García
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- Departamento de Pediatría, Obstetricia y Ginecología, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Amparo Faus
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - María José De Los Santos
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Hortensia Ferrero
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
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17
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Yang J, Barkley JE, Bhattarai B, Firouzi K, Monk BJ, Coonrod DV, Zenhausern F. Identification of Endometrial Cancer-Specific microRNA Biomarkers in Endometrial Fluid. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108683. [PMID: 37240034 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108683] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Abnormal uterine bleeding is a common benign gynecological complaint and is also the most common symptom of endometrial cancer (EC). Although many microRNAs have been reported in endometrial carcinoma, most of them were identified from tumor tissues obtained at surgery or from cell lines cultured in laboratories. The objective of this study was to develop a method to detect EC-specific microRNA biomarkers from liquid biopsy samples to improve the early diagnosis of EC in women. Endometrial fluid samples were collected during patient-scheduled in-office visits or in the operating room prior to surgery using the same technique performed for saline infusion sonohysterography (SIS). The total RNA was extracted from the endometrial fluid specimens, followed by quantification, reverse transcription, and real-time PCR arrays. The study was conducted in two phases: exploratory phase I and validation phase II. In total, endometrial fluid samples from 82 patients were collected and processed, with 60 matched non-cancer versus endometrial carcinoma patients used in phase I and 22 in phase II. The 14 microRNA biomarkers, out of 84 miRNA candidates, with the greatest variation in expression from phase I, were selected to enter phase II validation and statistical analysis. Among them, three microRNAs had a consistent and substantial fold-change in upregulation (miR-429, miR-183-5p, and miR-146a-5p). Furthermore, four miRNAs (miR-378c, miR-4705, miR-1321, and miR-362-3p) were uniquely detected. This research elucidated the feasibility of the collection, quantification, and detection of miRNA from endometrial fluid with a minimally invasive procedure performed during a patient in-office visit. The screening of a larger set of clinical samples was necessary to validate these early detection biomarkers for endometrial cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianing Yang
- Center for Applied NanoBiosciences and Medicine, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA
| | - Joel E Barkley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, District Medical Group, Valleywise Health, Phoenix, AZ 85008, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Creighton University, Phoenix, AZ 85012, USA
| | - Bikash Bhattarai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA
- Department of Research, Valleywise Health, Phoenix, AZ 85008, USA
| | - Kameron Firouzi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, District Medical Group, Valleywise Health, Phoenix, AZ 85008, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Creighton University, Phoenix, AZ 85012, USA
| | - Bradley J Monk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Creighton University, Phoenix, AZ 85012, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA
- HonorHealth Research Institute, Scottsdale, AZ 85258, USA
| | - Dean V Coonrod
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, District Medical Group, Valleywise Health, Phoenix, AZ 85008, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Creighton University, Phoenix, AZ 85012, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA
| | - Frederic Zenhausern
- Center for Applied NanoBiosciences and Medicine, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arizona's College of Engineering, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA
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18
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Non-Coding RNAs as Biomarkers for Embryo Quality and Pregnancy Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065751. [PMID: 36982824 PMCID: PMC10052053 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in in vitro fertilization (IVF), there is still a lack of non-invasive and reliable biomarkers for selecting embryos with the highest developmental and implantation potential. Recently, small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) have been identified in biological fluids, and extracellular sncRNAs are explored as diagnostic biomarkers in the prediction of IVF outcomes. To determine the predictive role of sncRNAs in embryo quality and IVF outcomes, a systematic review and meta-analysis was performed. Articles were retrieved from PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science from 1990 to 31 July 2022. Eighteen studies that met the selection criteria were analyzed. In total, 22 and 47 different sncRNAs were found to be dysregulated in follicular fluid (FF) and embryo spent culture medium (SCM), respectively. MiR-663b, miR-454 and miR-320a in FF and miR-20a in SCM showed consistent dysregulation in two different studies. The meta-analysis indicated the potential predictive performance of sncRNAs as non-invasive biomarkers, with a pooled area under curve (AUC) value of 0.81 (95% CI 0.78, 0.844), a sensitivity of 0.79 (95% CI 0.72, 0.85), a specificity of 0.67 (95% CI 0.52, 0.79) and a diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) of 8 (95% CI 5, 12). Significant heterogeneity was identified among studies in sensitivity (I2 = 46.11%) and specificity (I2 = 89.73%). This study demonstrates that sncRNAs may distinguish embryos with higher developmental and implantation potentials. They can be promising non-invasive biomarkers for embryo selection in ART. However, the significant heterogeneity among studies highlights the demand for prospective multicenter studies with optimized methods and adequate sample sizes in the future.
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19
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Juárez-Barber E, Segura-Benítez M, Carbajo-García MC, Bas-Rivas A, Faus A, Vidal C, Giles J, Labarta E, Pellicer A, Cervelló I, Ferrero H. Extracellular vesicles secreted by adenomyosis endometrial organoids contain miRNAs involved in embryo implantation and pregnancy. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 46:470-481. [PMID: 36697316 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Do extracellular vesicles secreted by the endometrium of women with adenomyosis contain miRNAs involved in adenomyosis-related infertility? DESIGN A descriptive study using organoids from eutopic endometrium of women with adenomyosis (n = 4) generated and differentiated to secretory and gestational phases, in which miRNA cargo from extracellular vesicles secreted by these differentiated organoids in each phase was analysed by next-generation sequencing. miRNAs in secretory-extracellular vesicles and gestational-extracellular vesicles were selected based on the counts per million. miRNAs target genes in each phase were obtained from miRNet and gene ontology was used for enrichment analysis. RESULTS miRNA sequencing identified 80 miRNAs in secretory-phase extracellular vesicles, including hsa-miR-21-5p, hsa-miR-24-3p, hsa-miR-26a-5p, hsa-miR-92a-3p, hsa-miR-92b-3p, hsa-miR-200c-3p and hsa-miR-423a-5p, related to adenomyosis pathogenesis and implantation failure. Further, 60 miRNAs were identified in gestational-phase extracellular vesicles, including hsa-miR-21-5p, hsa-miR-26a-5p, hsa-miR-30a-5p, hsa-miR-30c-5p, hsa-miR-222-3p and hsa-miR-423a-5p were associated with preeclampsia and miscarriage. Among the target genes of these miRNAs, PTEN, MDM4, PLAGL2 and CELF1, whose downregulation (P = 0.0003, P < 0.0001, P = 0.0002 and P = 0.0003, respectively) contributes to adenomyosis pathogenesis, and impaired early embryo development, leading to implantation failure and miscarriage, are highlihghted. Further, functional enrichment analyses of the target genes revealed their involvement in cell differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle regulation and response to extracellular stimuli. CONCLUSIONS Eutopic endometrium in secretory and gestational phase from women with adenomyosis releases extracellular vesicles containing miRNAs involved in adenomyosis progression, impaired embryo implantation and pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Juárez-Barber
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Marina Segura-Benítez
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; Departamento de Pediatría, Obstetricia y Ginecología, Universidad de Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - María Cristina Carbajo-García
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; Departamento de Pediatría, Obstetricia y Ginecología, Universidad de Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Alba Bas-Rivas
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Amparo Faus
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Carmen Vidal
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; IVI-RMA Valencia, 46015 Valencia, Spain
| | - Juan Giles
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; IVI-RMA Valencia, 46015 Valencia, Spain
| | - Elena Labarta
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; IVI-RMA Valencia, 46015 Valencia, Spain
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; IVI-RMA Rome, 00197 Rome, Italy
| | - Irene Cervelló
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Hortensia Ferrero
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain.
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20
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Yaghoobi A, Nazerian Y, Meymand AZ, Ansari A, Nazerian A, Niknejad H. Hypoxia-sensitive miRNA regulation via CRISPR/dCas9 loaded in hybrid exosomes: A novel strategy to improve embryo implantation and prevent placental insufficiency during pregnancy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 10:1082657. [PMID: 36704201 PMCID: PMC9871368 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1082657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproductive techniques as a new regenerative medicine approach have significantly contributed to solving infertility problems that affect approximately 15% of couples worldwide. However, the success rate of an in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle remains only about 20%-30%, and 75% of these losses are due to implantation failure (the crucial rate-limiting step of gestation). Implantation failure and abnormal placenta formation are mainly caused by defective adhesion, invasion, and angiogenesis. Placental insufficiency endangers both the mother's and the fetus's health. Therefore, we suggested a novel treatment strategy to improve endometrial receptivity and implantation success rate. In this strategy, regulating mir-30d expression as an upstream transcriptomic modifier of the embryo implantation results in modified expression of the involved genes in embryonic adhesion, invasion, and angiogenesis and consequently impedes implantation failure. For this purpose, "scaffold/matrix attachment regions (S/MARs)" are employed as non-viral episomal vectors, transfecting into trophoblasts by exosome-liposome hybrid carriers. These vectors comprise CRISPR/dCas9 with a guide RNA to exclusively induce miR-30d gene expression in hypoxic stress conditions. In order to avoid concerns about the fetus's genetic manipulation, our vector would be transfected specifically into the trophoblast layer of the blastocyst via binding to trophoblast Erb-B4 receptors without entering the inner cell mass. Additionally, S/MAR episomal vectors do not integrate with the original cell DNA. As an on/off regulatory switch, a hypoxia-sensitive promoter (HRE) is localized upstream of dCas9. The miR-30d expression increases before and during the implantation and placental insufficiency conditions and is extinguished after hypoxia elimination. This hypothesis emphasizes that improving the adhesion, invasion, and angiogenesis in the uterine microenvironment during pregnancy will result in increased implantation success and reduced placental insufficiency, as a new insight in translational medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Yaghoobi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yasaman Nazerian
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arman Zeinaddini Meymand
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Ansari
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Hassan Niknejad
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,*Correspondence: Hassan Niknejad,
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21
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Zou K, Du Q, Chen X, Tang P, Liang H. MLL1:EZH2 Ratio in Uterine Secretions and Endometrial Receptivity in Patients with Endometriosis. Lab Med 2023; 54:90-97. [PMID: 36094360 DOI: 10.1093/labmed/lmac067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To establish a novel approach for diagnosing endometriosis (EM) in patients with impaired endometrial receptivity. METHOD Mixed lineage leukemia 1 (MLL1) and enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) levels were analyzed. The MLL1:EZH2 ratio in identifying impaired endometrial receptivity has been established and validated. RESULTS In normal endometrial tissue, the MLL1:EZH2 ratio increased significantly in the midsecretory phase, compared with that in the proliferative phase. In the midsecretory phase, the MLL1:EZH2 ratio in endometrial tissues and uterine secretions accurately identifies patients with EM who have impaired endometrial receptivity. In the validation group, the sensitivity and specificity of the MLL1:EZH2 ratio in the uterine secretions of the midsecretory phase, in diagnosing patients EM who have impaired endometrial receptivity, were 100% and 96.55%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The MLL1:EZH2 ratio in uterine secretions of the midsecretory phase may serve as a marker to diagnose EM in patients with impaired endometrial receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kehan Zou
- Department of Health, The Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hunan Province
| | - Qing Du
- Department of Second School of Clinical Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Second School of Clinical Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine
| | - Pingfang Tang
- Department of Second School of Clinical Medicine, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine
| | - Huizhen Liang
- Department of Clinic of Integrated Traditional & Western Medicine, The Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hunan Province , Changsha, China
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22
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Maziotis E, Kalampokas T, Giannelou P, Grigoriadis S, Rapani A, Anifantakis M, Kotsifaki A, Pantou A, Triantafyllidou O, Tzanakaki D, Neofytou S, Vogiatzi P, Bakas P, Simopoulou M, Vlahos N. Commercially Available Molecular Approaches to Evaluate Endometrial Receptivity: A Systematic Review and Critical Analysis of the Literature. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:2611. [PMID: 36359455 PMCID: PMC9689742 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12112611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the advances in the field of reproductive medicine, implantation failure represents a challenging condition affecting 10-30% of patients subjected to in vitro fertilization (IVF). Research has focused on the identification of molecules playing crucial roles in endometrial receptivity, with the aim of designing predictive tools for efficient detection of the implantation window. To that end, novel molecular genomic and transcriptomic approaches have been introduced as promising tools to enable personalized approaches with the aim of optimizing embryo transfer dating. However, the clinical value of these approaches remains unclear. The aim of this study is to provide a systematic review and critical analysis of the existing evidence regarding the employment of commercially available novel approaches to evaluate endometrial receptivity. An Embase and PubMed/Medline search was performed on 1 February 2022. From the 475 articles yielded, only 27 were included and analyzed. The considerable heterogeneity of the included articles indicates the uniqueness of the implantation window, showcasing that the optimal time for embryo transfer varies significantly between women. Moreover, this study provides information regarding the technical aspects of these advanced molecular tools, as well as an analysis of novel possible biomarkers for endometrial receptivity, providing a basis for future research in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelos Maziotis
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias Str., 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Theodoros Kalampokas
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Polina Giannelou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli Str., 15232 Athens, Greece
| | - Sokratis Grigoriadis
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias Str., 11527 Athens, Greece
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Anna Rapani
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias Str., 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Marios Anifantakis
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias Str., 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Amalia Kotsifaki
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias Str., 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Agni Pantou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli Str., 15232 Athens, Greece
| | - Olga Triantafyllidou
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Despoina Tzanakaki
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Spyridoula Neofytou
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Paraskevi Vogiatzi
- Andromed Health & Reproduction, Fertility Diagnostics Center, 3, Mesogion Str., 15126 Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Bakas
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias Str., 11527 Athens, Greece
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Vlahos
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece
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23
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Goharitaban S, Abedelahi A, Hamdi K, Khazaei M, Esmaeilivand M, Niknafs B. Role of endometrial microRNAs in repeated implantation failure (mini-review). Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:936173. [PMID: 36060804 PMCID: PMC9437697 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.936173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play various roles in the implantation and pregnancy process. Abnormal regulation of miRNAs leads to reproductive disorders such as repeated implantation failure (RIF). During the window of implantation, different miRNAs are released from the endometrium, which can potentially reflect the status of the endometrium for in vitro fertilization (IVF). The focus of this review is to determine whether endometrial miRNAs may be utilized as noninvasive biomarkers to predict the ability of endometrium to implant and provide live birth during IVF cycles. The levels of certain miRNAs in the endometrium have been linked to implantation potential and pregnancy outcomes in previous studies. Endometrial miRNAs could be employed as non-invasive biomarkers in the assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycle to determine the optimal time for implantation. Few human studies have evaluated the association between ART outcomes and endometrial miRNAs in RIF patients. This review may pave the way for more miRNA transcriptomic studies on human endometrium and introduce a specific miRNA profile as a multivariable prediction model for choosing the optimal time in the IVF cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepide Goharitaban
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Abedelahi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Kobra Hamdi
- Womens Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mozafar Khazaei
- Fertility and Infertility Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Esmaeilivand
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Behrooz Niknafs
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- *Correspondence: Behrooz Niknafs, , 0000-0003-4438-1880
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24
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Chao A, Wu KY, Lin CY, Lee YS, Huang HJ, Tang YH, Weng CH, Chao AS, Chang TC, Lai CH, Wu RC. Towards less invasive molecular diagnostics for endometrial cancer: massively parallel sequencing of endometrial lavage specimens in women attending for an office hysteroscopy. J Mol Med (Berl) 2022; 100:1331-1339. [PMID: 35953603 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-022-02239-7] [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: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to detect endometrial cancer (EC)-associated mutations in endometrial lavage specimens collected in an office setting and to compare the detected mutations with those identified in tissue samples. Participants included 16 women attending for an office hysteroscopy because of suspected EC between July 2020 and October 2021. Massively parallel sequencing was conducted using the targeted 72 cancer-associated genes. Endometrial lavage specimens, endometrial tissue samples, and blood samples were simultaneously sequenced to establish the concordance of genetic alterations. In this study, the vast majority of EC-associated mutations identified in lavage samples (R2 = 0.948) were identical to those detected in endometrial tissues. Of the 13 patients with EC, 12 (92.3%) had at least one mutation identified in endometrial lavage samples. Notably, no mutations in lavage samples were identified in the two patients with a previous history of EC but no actual endometrial lesions, supporting a high negative predictive value of the test. A patient previously diagnosed with EC and with current evidence of atypical hyperplasia showed persisting PTEN, PIK3R1, and KRAS mutations in her endometrial lavage specimen. PTEN was the most commonly mutated gene, followed by PIK3R1, ARID1A, PIK3CA, CTNNB1, and KRAS. In conclusions, our study provides pilot evidence on the actionability of uterine lavage samples sequencing to detect EC-associated mutations in women with suspected endometrial lesions. In a precision medicine framework, the high mutational concordance between uterine lavage samples and tissue specimens may help inform less invasive diagnostic protocols and the need for ongoing surveillance in patients with EC who wished for fertility-preserving treatment. KEY MESSAGES: • Sequencing of uterine lavage samples collected by office hysteroscopy is feasible. • Most EC mutations identified in lavage were identical to endometrial tissues. • Sequencing of uterine lavage samples may help inform diagnostic protocols for EC. • This approach can be used for recurrence surveillance in patients with EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angel Chao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Gynecologic Cancer Research Center, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Kai-Yun Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Gynecologic Cancer Research Center, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chiao-Yun Lin
- Gynecologic Cancer Research Center, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Shien Lee
- Department of Biotechnology, Ming Chuan University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Genomic Medicine Research Core Laboratory, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Huei-Jean Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Gynecologic Cancer Research Center, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yun-Hsin Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Gynecologic Cancer Research Center, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Cindy Hsuan Weng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Gynecologic Cancer Research Center, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - An-Shine Chao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New Taipei Municipal Tu Cheng Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Chang Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Gynecologic Cancer Research Center, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chyong-Huey Lai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Gynecologic Cancer Research Center, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Ren-Chin Wu
- Department of Pathology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan. .,Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
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25
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Liu X, Papukashvili D, Wang Z, Liu Y, Chen X, Li J, Li Z, Hu L, Li Z, Rcheulishvili N, Lu X, Ma J. Potential utility of miRNAs for liquid biopsy in breast cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:940314. [PMID: 35992785 PMCID: PMC9386533 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.940314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) remains the most prevalent malignancy due to its incidence rate, recurrence, and metastasis in women. Conventional strategies of cancer detection– mammography and tissue biopsy lack the capacity to detect the complete cancer genomic landscape. Besides, they often give false- positive or negative results. The presence of this and other disadvantages such as invasiveness, high-cost, and side effects necessitates developing new strategies to overcome the BC burden. Liquid biopsy (LB) has been brought to the fore owing to its early detection, screening, prognosis, simplicity of the technique, and efficient monitoring. Remarkably, microRNAs (miRNAs)– gene expression regulators seem to play a major role as biomarkers detected in the samples of LB. Particularly, miR-21 and miR-155 among other possible candidates seem to serve as favorable biomarkers in the diagnosis and prognosis of BC. Hence, this review will assess the potential utility of miRNAs as biomarkers and will highlight certain promising candidates for the LB approach in the diagnosis and management of BC that may optimize the patient outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangrong Liu
- Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Dimitri Papukashvili
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhixiang Wang
- Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xiaoxia Chen
- Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jianrong Li
- Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Zhiyuan Li
- Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Linjie Hu
- Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Nino Rcheulishvili
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaoqing Lu
- Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaoqing Lu, ; Jinfeng Ma,
| | - Jinfeng Ma
- Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaoqing Lu, ; Jinfeng Ma,
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26
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Sun B, Yeh J. Non-Invasive and Mechanism-Based Molecular Assessment of Endometrial Receptivity During the Window of Implantation: Current Concepts and Future Prospective Testing Directions. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 4:863173. [PMID: 36303672 PMCID: PMC9580756 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.863173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Suboptimal endometrial receptivity and altered embryo-endometrial crosstalk account for approximately two-thirds of human implantation failures. Current tests of the window of implantation, such as endometrial thickness measurements and the endometrial receptivity assay, do not consistently improve clinical outcomes as measured by live birth rates. Understanding the mechanisms regulating the endometrial receptivity during the window of implantation is a critical step toward developing clinically meaningful tests. In this narrative review, the available literature is evaluated regarding mechanisms that regulate the endometrial receptivity during the window of implantation and the current tests developed. Overall, both animal and human studies point to five possible and interrelated mechanisms regulating the endometrial window of implantation: suitable synchrony between endometrial cells, adequate synchrony between the endometrium and the embryo, standard progesterone signaling and endometrial responses to progesterone, silent genetic variations, and typical morphological characteristics of the endometrial glands. The biological basis of current clinical markers or tests of window of implantation is poor. Future studies to elucidate the mechanisms shaping the window of implantation and to investigate the potential markers based on these mechanisms are required. In addition, molecular testing of the endometrium at single-cell resolution should be an initial step toward developing clinically meaningful tests for the optimal window of implantation. As understanding of the optimal window of implantation continues to evolve, one can envision the future development of non-invasive, mechanism-based testing of the window of implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bei Sun
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Sackler School of Medicine, New York State/American Program of Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - John Yeh
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, UMass Memorial Medical Center, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: John Yeh
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