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Esmaeilian Y, Yusufoglu S, İltumur E, Cimen DU, Vatansever D, Taskiran C, Turan V, Yakin K, İncir S, Urman B, Oktem O. Patients with gynecological malignancies are similar to other IVF patients without cancer for clinical and molecular reproductive parameters and DNA damage response pattern. Sci Rep 2024; 14:13628. [PMID: 38871783 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64403-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
This study intended to investigate if gynecological cancers compromise ovarian function and reduce the success of assisted reproduction techniques (ART). No clinical and molecular data together is available on this issue for gynecological or other organ cancers. Steroidogenic pathways and DNA damage response characteristics of the granulosa cells retrieved from the 39 gynecological cancer patients were analyzed together with their clinical ART characteristics in comparison to 31 control ART patients. Patients with gynecological malignancies were similar to the control IVF patients for the number of mature oocytes retrieved, fertilization rates and embryo development competency. Molecular analyses of the granulosa cells retrieved from these cancer patients did not detect any perturbations in gonadotropin receptor expression and response, sex steroid production, cholesterol utilization/storage and, DNA damage response pattern in comparison to control IVF patients without cancer. This study provides the first reassuring clinical and molecular combined data set that the presence of gynecological malignancy does not appear to have any detrimental effect on clinical IVF cycle characteristics and ovarian functioning at molecular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yashar Esmaeilian
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey
| | - Sevgi Yusufoglu
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koç University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey
| | - Ece İltumur
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koç University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey
| | - Deniz Ugurlu Cimen
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey
| | - Dogan Vatansever
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Koc University, Davutpasa, Topkapi, 34010, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Cagatay Taskiran
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Koc University, Davutpasa, Topkapi, 34010, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Volkan Turan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, İstanbul Health and Technology University Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Kayhan Yakin
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koç University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Koc University, Davutpasa, Topkapi, 34010, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Said İncir
- Department of Biochemistry, Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Bulent Urman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Koc University, Davutpasa, Topkapi, 34010, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ozgur Oktem
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey.
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koç University, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Koc University, Davutpasa, Topkapi, 34010, Istanbul, Turkey.
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Roof KA, Andre KE, Modesitt SC, Schirmer DA. Maximizing ovarian function and fertility following chemotherapy in premenopausal patients: Is there a role for ovarian suppression? Gynecol Oncol Rep 2024; 53:101383. [PMID: 38633671 PMCID: PMC11021951 DOI: 10.1016/j.gore.2024.101383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
As more premenopausal patients undergo fertility preserving cancer treatments, there is an increased need for fertility counseling and ovarian sparing strategies. Many patients receive gonadotoxic chemotherapeutic agents which can put them at risk of primary ovarian insufficiency or profoundly diminished ovarian reserve. Traditionally, estradiol and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) values have been used to evaluate ovarian function but more recently, reproductive endocrinologists have been proponents of anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) as a validated measure of ovarian potential. While the gold standard for fertility preservation remains oocyte cryopreservation, data suggest there may be additional interventions that can mitigate the gonadotoxic effects of chemotherapeutic agents. The main objectives of this focused review were to quantify the risk of primary ovarian failure associated with the most common chemotherapies used in treatment of gynecologic cancers and to evaluate and recommend potential interventions to mitigate toxic effects on ovarian function. Chemotherapeutic agents can cause direct loss of oocytes and primordial follicles as well as stromal and vascular atrophy and the extent is dependent upon mechanism of action and age of the patient. The risk of ovarian failure is the highest with alkylating agents (42.2 %), anthracyclines (<10-34 % in patients under 40 years versus 98 % in patients aged 40-49), taxanes (57.1 %) and platinum agents (50 %). Multiple trials demonstrate that gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, when administered concurrently with chemotherapy, may have protective effects, with more patients experiencing resumption of a regular menstruation pattern and recovering ovarian function more quickly post-treatment. Premenopausal patients receiving chemotherapy for the treatment of gynecologic cancers should receive adequate counseling on the potential adverse effects on their fertility. Although oocyte cryopreservation remains the gold standard for fertility preservation, there is some evidence to suggest that GNRH agonists could help maintain and preserve ovarian function and should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey A. Roof
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Kerri E. Andre
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Susan C. Modesitt
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - D. Austin Schirmer
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Xie Q, Liao Q, Wang L, Zhang Y, Chen J, Bai H, Li K, Ai J. The Dominant Mechanism of Cyclophosphamide-Induced Damage to Ovarian Reserve: Premature Activation or Apoptosis of Primordial Follicles? Reprod Sci 2024; 31:30-44. [PMID: 37486531 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01294-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Cyclophosphamide (CPM), a part of most cancer treatment regimens, has demonstrated high gonadal toxicity in females. Initially, CPM is believed to damage the ovarian reserve by premature activation of primordial follicles, for the fact that facing CPM damage, primordial oocytes show the activation of PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathways, accompanied by accelerated activation of follicle developmental waves. Meanwhile, primordial follicles are dormant and not considered the target of CPM. However, many researchers have found DNA DSBs and apoptosis within primordial oocytes under CPM-induced ovarian damage instead of premature accelerated activation. A stricter surveillance system of DNA damage is also thought to be in primordial oocytes. So far, the apoptotic death mechanism is considered well-proved, but the premature activation theory is controversial and unacceptable. The connection between the upregulation of PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathways and DNA DSBs and apoptosis within primordial oocytes is also unclear. This review aims to highlight the flaw and/or support of the disputed premature activation theory and the apoptosis mechanism to identify the underlying mechanism of CPM's injury on ovarian reserve, which is crucial to facilitate the discovery and development of effective ovarian protectants. Ultimately, this review finds no good evidence for follicle activation and strong consistent evidence for apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Xie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, No.136, Jingzhou Road, Xiangcheng District, Xiangyang, 441021, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiuyue Liao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Lingjuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Hualin Bai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Kezhen Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Jihui Ai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Wang SC, Hsu HC, Chang YC, Yu CY, Liu CT, Sung WW. Melatonin exhibits partial protective effects against gemcitabine- and cisplatin-induced kidney and reproductive injuries in mice. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:14372-14383. [PMID: 38097341 PMCID: PMC10756091 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Cisplatin has the potential to cause kidney and reproductive organ injuries, prompting the search for protective agents against cisplatin-induced toxicity. Melatonin, an antioxidant hormone, has shown promise in mitigating oxidative stress in various organs. However, its protective effects on cisplatin-induced kidney and reproductive injuries have not been extensively investigated. The aim of this study was to explore the potential protective effects of melatonin on cisplatin-induced kidney and reproductive injuries when administered in combination with gemcitabine in mice. Male C57BL/6 mice were subjected to a seven-week treatment with gemcitabine plus cisplatin, with or without melatonin intervention. The testis, epididymis, and kidney were assessed through histological analysis and measurement of blood parameters. Treatment with cisplatin led to a significant reduction in testicular weight, histological abnormalities, and alterations in reproductive hormone levels. Melatonin exhibited a slight protective effect on the testis, with higher doses of melatonin yielding better outcomes. However, melatonin did not reverse the effects of cisplatin on the epididymis. Administration of melatonin before and during treatment with cisplatin plus gemcitabine in mice demonstrated a modest protective effect on testicular injuries, while showing limited effects on epididymal injuries. Serum creatinine levels in the group treated with gemcitabine plus cisplatin treatment and high-dose melatonin approached those of the control group, indicating a protective effect on the kidney. These findings underscore the potential of melatonin as a protective agent against cisplatin-induced kidney and reproductive injuries and emphasize the need for further research to optimize its dosage and evaluate its long-term effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Chuan Wang
- Department of Urology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
| | - Hsuan-Chih Hsu
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Chuan Chang
- Department of Urology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Ying Yu
- Department of Urology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Te Liu
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Wei Sung
- Department of Urology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
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5
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Xiao Y, Peng Y, Zhang C, Liu W, Wang K, Li J. hucMSC-derived exosomes protect ovarian reserve and restore ovarian function in cisplatin treated mice. J Biomed Res 2022; 37:382-393. [PMID: 37198178 PMCID: PMC10541778 DOI: 10.7555/jbr.36.20220166] [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: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Anti-cancer therapy often causes premature ovarian insufficiency and infertility as the ovarian follicle reserve is extremely sensitive to chemotherapy drugs, such as cisplatin. Various fertility preservation methods have been explored for women, especially prepubertal girls undergoing radiotherapy and chemotherapy due to cancer. In recent years, mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-exos) have been reported to play an important role in tissue repair and the treatment of various diseases. In the current study, we observed that human umbilical cord-derived MSC-exos (hucMSC-exos) after short-term culture improved follicular survival and development while receiving cisplatin treatment. Moreover, intravenous injection of hucMSC-exos improved ovarian function and ameliorated inflammatory environment within the ovary. The underlying mechanism of hucMSC-exos on fertility preservation was associated with the down-regulation of p53-related apoptosis and their anti-inflammatory function. Based on these findings, we propose that hucMSC-exos may be a potential approach to improve fertility in women diagnosed with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Yue Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Wei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Kehan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
| | - Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, China
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6
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Unlaid Eggs: Ovarian Damage after Low-Dose Radiation. Cells 2022; 11:cells11071219. [PMID: 35406783 PMCID: PMC8997758 DOI: 10.3390/cells11071219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The total body irradiation of lymphomas and co-irradiation in the treatment of adjacent solid tumors can lead to a reduced ovarian function, premature ovarian insufficiency, and menopause. A small number of studies has assessed the radiation-induced damage of primordial follicles in animal models and humans. Studies are emerging that evaluate radiation-induced damage to the surrounding ovarian tissue including stromal and immune cells. We reviewed basic laboratory work to assess the current state of knowledge and to establish an experimental setting for further studies in animals and humans. The experimental approaches were mostly performed using mouse models. Most studies relied on single doses as high as 1 Gy, which is considered to cause severe damage to the ovary. Changes in the ovarian reserve were related to the primordial follicle count, providing reproducible evidence that radiation with 1 Gy leads to a significant depletion. Radiation with 0.1 Gy mostly did not show an effect on the primordial follicles. Fewer data exist on the effects of radiation on the ovarian microenvironment including theca-interstitial, immune, endothelial, and smooth muscle cells. We concluded that a mouse model would provide the most reliable model to study the effects of low-dose radiation. Furthermore, both immunohistochemistry and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) analyses were valuable to analyze not only the germ cells but also the ovarian microenvironment.
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7
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Zhang X, Zhang R, Hao J, Huang X, Liu M, Lv M, Su C, Mu YL. miRNA-122-5p in POI ovarian-derived exosomes promotes granulosa cell apoptosis by regulating BCL9. Cancer Med 2022; 11:2414-2426. [PMID: 35229987 PMCID: PMC9189466 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.4615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
This study is to explore the therapeutic effect and potential mechanisms of exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) derived from the ovaries with primary ovarian insufficiency (POI). The POI mouse model was established by intraperitoneal injection of cyclophosphamide (CTX) and busulfan. The apoptosis of granulosa cells (GCs) incubated with exosomes extracted from ovarian tissues of control and POI groups was analyzed by flow cytometry. Then, high-throughput sequencing was performed to detect the difference of miRNAs profile in ovarian tissue-derived exosomes between the control and POI mice. The effect of differential miRNA on the apoptosis of CTX-induced ovarian GCs was analyzed by flow cytometry. The results showed that POI mouse model was successfully established. Exosomes extracted from ovarian of normal and POI group have different effects on apoptosis of GCs induced by CTX. miRNA-seq found that exosomal miR-122-5p in POI group increased significantly. miR-122-5p as the dominant miRNA targeting BCL9 was significantly upregulated in ovarian tissues of chemotherapy-induced POI group. Exosomes derived from the ovaries in the control group and miR-122-5p inhibitor group attenuated the apoptosis of primary cultured ovarian GCs. In conclusion, exosomal miR-122-5p promoted the apoptosis of ovarian GCs by targeting BCL9, suggested that miR-122-5p may function as a potential target to restore ovarian function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiujuan Zhang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Ruihong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jing Hao
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Experimental Teratology, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaoyan Huang
- Shandong Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Ming Liu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Mengxiao Lv
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Chan Su
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yu-Lan Mu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
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Valsamakis G, Valtetsiotis K, Charmandari E, Lambrinoudaki I, Vlahos NF. GnRH Analogues as a Co-Treatment to Therapy in Women of Reproductive Age with Cancer and Fertility Preservation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:2287. [PMID: 35216409 PMCID: PMC8875398 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, we analyzed existing literature regarding the use of Gonadotropin-releasing Hormone (GnRH) analogues (agonists, antagonists) as a co-treatment to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. There is a growing interest in their application as a prophylaxis to gonadotoxicity caused by chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy due to their ovarian suppressive effects, making them a potential option to treat infertility caused by such chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. They could be used in conjunction with other fertility preservation options to synergistically maximize their effects. GnRH analogues may be a valuable prophylactic agent against chemotherapeutic infertility by inhibiting rapid cellular turnover on growing follicles that contain types of cells unintentionally targeted during anti-cancer treatments. These could create a prepubertal-like effect in adult women, limiting the gonadotoxicity to the lower levels that young girls have. The use of GnRH agonists was found to be effective in hematological and breast cancer treatment whereas for ovarian endometrial and cervical cancers the evidence is still limited. Studies on GnRH antagonists, as well as the combination of both agonists and antagonists, were limited. GnRH antagonists have a similar protective effect to that of agonists as they preserve or at least alleviate the follicle degradation during chemo-radiation treatment. Their use may be preferred in cases where treatment is imminent (as their effects are almost immediate) and whenever the GnRH agonist-induced flare-up effect may be contra-indicated. The combination treatment of agonists and antagonists has primarily been studied in animal models so far, especially rats. Factors that may play a role in determining their efficacy as a chemoprotective agent that limits gonadal damage, include the type and stage of cancer, the use of alkylating agents, age of patient and prior ovarian reserve. The data for the use of GnRH antagonist alone or in combination with GnRH agonist is still very limited. Moreover, studies evaluating the impact of this treatment on the ovarian reserve as measured by Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels are still sparse. Further studies with strict criteria regarding ovarian reserve and fertility outcomes are needed to confirm or reject their role as a gonadal protecting agent during chemo-radiation treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgios Valsamakis
- Second University Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion University Hospital, Athens Medical School, Ethnikon and Kapodistriakon University of Athens, 115 28 Athens, Greece; (K.V.); (I.L.); (N.F.V.)
| | - Konstantinos Valtetsiotis
- Second University Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion University Hospital, Athens Medical School, Ethnikon and Kapodistriakon University of Athens, 115 28 Athens, Greece; (K.V.); (I.L.); (N.F.V.)
| | - Evangelia Charmandari
- First University Department of Paediatrics, Aghia Sophia Childrens Hospital, Athens Medical School, Ethnikon and Kapodistriakon University of Athens, 152 33 Athens, Greece;
| | - Irene Lambrinoudaki
- Second University Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion University Hospital, Athens Medical School, Ethnikon and Kapodistriakon University of Athens, 115 28 Athens, Greece; (K.V.); (I.L.); (N.F.V.)
| | - Nikolaos F. Vlahos
- Second University Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion University Hospital, Athens Medical School, Ethnikon and Kapodistriakon University of Athens, 115 28 Athens, Greece; (K.V.); (I.L.); (N.F.V.)
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Arecco L, Ruelle T, Martelli V, Boutros A, Latocca MM, Spinaci S, Marrocco C, Massarotti C, Lambertini M. How to Protect Ovarian Function before and during Chemotherapy? J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10184192. [PMID: 34575299 PMCID: PMC8467797 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10184192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
A significant number of women receive a cancer diagnosis before their age of natural menopause. Among these patients, the most frequent neoplasms are breast cancer, gynecological, and hematological malignancies. Premature ovarian insufficiency and infertility are among the most feared short- to long-term consequences of anticancer treatments in premenopausal patients. Both patient- and treatment-related characteristics are key factors in influencing the risk of gonadotoxicity with the use of chemotherapy. The cryopreservation of oocytes/embryos is a standard strategy for fertility preservations offered to young women interested in future family planning, but it does not allow gonadal function protection during chemotherapy. Ovarian suppression with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) during chemotherapy is now recommended as an option to reduce the risk of gonadotoxicity in order to avoid the negative consequences of premature ovarian insufficiency in premenopausal women receiving cytotoxic therapy, including those not interested in fertility preservation. This review summarizes the risk of treatment-induced gonadotoxicity in premenopausal patients and the evidence available on the protective role of administering GnRHa during chemotherapy to preserve ovarian function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Arecco
- U.O. Clinica di Oncologia Medica, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy; (L.A.); (M.M.L.); (C.M.)
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Sciences (DiMI), School of Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (T.R.); (V.M.); (A.B.)
| | - Tommaso Ruelle
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Sciences (DiMI), School of Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (T.R.); (V.M.); (A.B.)
- U.O. Oncologia Medica 2, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Valentino Martelli
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Sciences (DiMI), School of Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (T.R.); (V.M.); (A.B.)
- U.O. Oncologia Medica 1, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Andrea Boutros
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Sciences (DiMI), School of Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (T.R.); (V.M.); (A.B.)
- U.O. Oncologia Medica 2, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Maria Maddalena Latocca
- U.O. Clinica di Oncologia Medica, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy; (L.A.); (M.M.L.); (C.M.)
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Sciences (DiMI), School of Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (T.R.); (V.M.); (A.B.)
| | - Stefano Spinaci
- Division of Breast Surgery, Ospedale Villa Scassi ASL3, 16149 Genova, Italy;
| | - Camilla Marrocco
- U.O. Clinica di Oncologia Medica, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy; (L.A.); (M.M.L.); (C.M.)
| | - Claudia Massarotti
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), School of Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy;
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Matteo Lambertini
- U.O. Clinica di Oncologia Medica, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genova, Italy; (L.A.); (M.M.L.); (C.M.)
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Sciences (DiMI), School of Medicine, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy; (T.R.); (V.M.); (A.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-010-555-4254; Fax: +39-010-555-6536
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10
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Szymanska KJ, Tan X, Oktay K. Unraveling the mechanisms of chemotherapy-induced damage to human primordial follicle reserve: road to developing therapeutics for fertility preservation and reversing ovarian aging. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 26:553-566. [PMID: 32514568 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the investigated mechanisms of chemotherapy-induced damage to human primordial follicle reserve are induction of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) and resultant apoptotic death, stromal-microvascular damage and follicle activation. Accumulating basic and translational evidence suggests that acute exposure to gonadotoxic chemotherapeutics, such as cyclophosphamide or doxorubicin, induces DNA DSBs and triggers apoptotic death of primordial follicle oocytes within 12-24 h, resulting in the massive loss of ovarian reserve. Evidence also indicates that chemotherapeutic agents can cause microvascular and stromal damage, induce hypoxia and indirectly affect ovarian reserve. While it is possible that the acute reduction of the primordial follicle reserve by massive apoptotic losses may result in delayed activation of some primordial follicles, this is unlikely to be a predominant mechanism of loss in humans. Here, we review these mechanisms of chemotherapy-induced ovarian reserve depletion and the potential reasons for the discrepancies among the studies. Based on the current literature, we propose an integrated hypothesis that explains both the acute and delayed chemotherapy-induced loss of primordial follicle reserve in the human ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna J Szymanska
- Laboratory of Molecular Reproduction and Fertility Preservation, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Xiujuan Tan
- Laboratory of Molecular Reproduction and Fertility Preservation, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Kutluk Oktay
- Laboratory of Molecular Reproduction and Fertility Preservation, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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11
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Sukatendel K, Siregar MFG, Natadisastra M, Nasution IPA, Ilyas S, Tala MR, Eyanoer PC, Hasibuan PAZ. Benefits of Nigella sativa Extract Protecting Ovary Due to Cisplatin Chemotherapy. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2021.6446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Cisplatin (CIS) is an important chemotherapy agent which is widely used for the treatment of many types of solid tumors, which can cause decreased ovarian function. Nigella sativa has been shown to have an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activity that might protect the ovaries from damage due to CIS.
AIM: This study aims to understand the benefits of N. sativa protecting the ovaries due to CIS chemotherapy.
METHODS: Thirty-two female Rattus norvegicus aged 8 weeks weighing 160–200 g were divided into four groups: Negative control, Positive control, Treatment-1 (CIS 6 mg/KgBW and NS 500 mg/KgBW/day), and Treatment-2 (CIS 6 mg/KgBW and NS 1000 mg/kgBW/day) for 2 weeks. On the 14th day the rats were sacrificed, blood was drawn from the heart, followed by taking ovaries.
RESULTS: There was lower mortality and morbidity in CIS + NS 1000 and CIS + NS 500 mg group (p = 0.01 and 0.001). The mean estradiol levels, follicle-stimulating hormone levels, and anti-mullerian hormone levels were not statistically significant among the four groups. The highest number of primary, secondary, tertiary follicles are seen at the CIS + NS 500 mg and CIS + NS 1000 mg groups (p = 0.05). The lowest number of atretic follicles is seen at the CIS + NS 1000 mg group, and the highest number of atretic follicles was in CIS only.
CONCLUSION: There is a trend that N. sativa is beneficial in protecting the ovaries from damage caused by CIS.
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Del Castillo LM, Buigues A, Rossi V, Soriano MJ, Martinez J, De Felici M, Lamsira HK, Di Rella F, Klinger FG, Pellicer A, Herraiz S. The cyto-protective effects of LH on ovarian reserve and female fertility during exposure to gonadotoxic alkylating agents in an adult mouse model. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:2514-2528. [PMID: 34333622 PMCID: PMC8373474 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does LH protect mouse oocytes and female fertility from alkylating chemotherapy? SUMMARY ANSWER LH treatment before and during chemotherapy prevents detrimental effects on follicles and reproductive lifespan. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Chemotherapies can damage the ovary, resulting in premature ovarian failure and reduced fertility in cancer survivors. LH was recently suggested to protect prepubertal mouse follicles from chemotoxic effects of cisplatin treatment. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This experimental study investigated LH effects on primordial follicles exposed to chemotherapy. Seven-week-old CD-1 female mice were randomly allocated to four experimental groups: Control (n = 13), chemotherapy (ChT, n = 15), ChT+LH-1x (n = 15), and ChT+LH-5x (n = 8). To induce primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), animals in the ChT and ChT+LH groups were intraperitoneally injected with 120 mg/kg of cyclophosphamide and 12 mg/kg of busulfan, while control mice received vehicle. For LH treatment, the ChT+LH-1x and ChT+LH-5x animals received a 1 or 5 IU LH dose, respectively, before chemotherapy, then a second LH injection administered with chemotherapy 24 h later. Then, two animals/group were euthanized at 12 and 24 h to investigate the early ovarian response to LH, while remaining mice were housed for 30 days to evaluate short- and long-term reproductive outcomes. The effects of LH and chemotherapy on growing-stage follicles were analyzed in a parallel experiment. Seven-week-old NOD-SCID female mice were allocated to control (n = 5), ChT (n = 5), and ChT+LH-1x (n = 6) groups. Animals were treated as described above, but maintained for 7 days before reproductive assessment. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS In the first experiment, follicular damage (phosphorylated H2AX histone (γH2AX) staining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay), apoptotic biomarkers (western blot), and DNA repair pathways (western blot and RT-qPCR) were assessed in ovaries collected at 12 and 24 h to determine early ovarian responses to LH. Thirty days after treatments, remaining mice were stimulated (10 IU of pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) and 10 IU of hCG) and mated to collect ovaries, oocytes, and embryos. Histological analysis was performed on ovarian samples to investigate follicular populations and stromal status, and meiotic spindle and chromosome alignment was measured in oocytes by confocal microscopy. Long-term effects were monitored by assessing pregnancy rate and litter size during six consecutive breeding attempts. In the second experiment, mice were stimulated and mated 7 days after treatments and ovaries, oocytes, and embryos were collected. Follicular numbers, follicular protection (DNA damage and apoptosis by H2AX staining and TUNEL assay, respectively), and ovarian stroma were assessed. Oocyte quality was determined by confocal analysis. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE LH treatment was sufficient to preserve ovarian reserve and follicular development, avoid atresia, and restore ovulation and meiotic spindle configuration in mature oocytes exposed at the primordial stage. LH improved the cumulative pregnancy rate and litter size in six consecutive breeding rounds, confirming the potential of LH treatment to preserve fertility. This protective effect appeared to be mediated by an enhanced early DNA repair response, via homologous recombination, and generation of anti-apoptotic signals in the ovary a few hours after injury with chemotherapy. This response ameliorated the chemotherapy-induced increase in DNA-damaged oocytes and apoptotic granulosa cells. LH treatment also protected growing follicles from chemotherapy. LH reversed the chemotherapy-induced depletion of primordial and primary follicular subpopulations, reduced oocyte DNA damage and granulosa cell apoptosis, restored mature oocyte cohort size, and improved meiotic spindle properties. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This was a preliminary study performed with mouse ovarian samples. Therefore, preclinical research with human samples is required for validation. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The current study tested if LH could protect the adult mouse ovarian reserve and reproductive lifespan from alkylating chemotherapy. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of LH as a complementary non-surgical strategy for preserving fertility in female cancer patients. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by grants from the Regional Valencian Ministry of Education (PROMETEO/2018/137), the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation (CP19/00141), and the Spanish Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports (FPU16/05264). The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M Del Castillo
- IVI Foundation—IIS La Fe, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - A Buigues
- IVI Foundation—IIS La Fe, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Valencia, Spain
| | - V Rossi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - M J Soriano
- IVI Foundation—IIS La Fe, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Valencia, Spain
| | - J Martinez
- IVI Foundation—IIS La Fe, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - M De Felici
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - H K Lamsira
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - F Di Rella
- Clinical and Experimental Senology, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, IRCCS, Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | - F G Klinger
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - A Pellicer
- IVI Foundation—IIS La Fe, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Valencia, Spain
- IVI-RMA Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - S Herraiz
- Correspondence address. IVI Foundation—IIS La Fe, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Av. Fernando Abril Martorell, 106-Torre A-Planta1, 46026 Valencia, Spain. Tel: +34-96-390-33-05; E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0703-6922
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13
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Spears N, Lopes F, Stefansdottir A, Rossi V, De Felici M, Anderson RA, Klinger FG. Ovarian damage from chemotherapy and current approaches to its protection. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 25:673-693. [PMID: 31600388 PMCID: PMC6847836 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 323] [Impact Index Per Article: 80.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anti-cancer therapy is often a cause of premature ovarian insufficiency and infertility since the ovarian follicle reserve is extremely sensitive to the effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. While oocyte, embryo and ovarian cortex cryopreservation can help some women with cancer-induced infertility achieve pregnancy, the development of effective methods to protect ovarian function during chemotherapy would be a significant advantage. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This paper critically discusses the different damaging effects of the most common chemotherapeutic compounds on the ovary, in particular, the ovarian follicles and the molecular pathways that lead to that damage. The mechanisms through which fertility-protective agents might prevent chemotherapy drug-induced follicle loss are then reviewed. SEARCH METHODS Articles published in English were searched on PubMed up to March 2019 using the following terms: ovary, fertility preservation, chemotherapy, follicle death, adjuvant therapy, cyclophosphamide, cisplatin, doxorubicin. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to the analysis of the protective agents. OUTCOMES Recent studies reveal how chemotherapeutic drugs can affect the different cellular components of the ovary, causing rapid depletion of the ovarian follicular reserve. The three most commonly used drugs, cyclophosphamide, cisplatin and doxorubicin, cause premature ovarian insufficiency by inducing death and/or accelerated activation of primordial follicles and increased atresia of growing follicles. They also cause an increase in damage to blood vessels and the stromal compartment and increment inflammation. In the past 20 years, many compounds have been investigated as potential protective agents to counteract these adverse effects. The interactions of recently described fertility-protective agents with these damage pathways are discussed. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Understanding the mechanisms underlying the action of chemotherapy compounds on the various components of the ovary is essential for the development of efficient and targeted pharmacological therapies that could protect and prolong female fertility. While there are increasing preclinical investigations of potential fertility preserving adjuvants, there remains a lack of approaches that are being developed and tested clinically.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Spears
- Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh UK
| | - F Lopes
- Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh UK
| | | | - V Rossi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - M De Felici
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - R A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh UK
| | - F G Klinger
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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14
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Lopes F, Liu J, Morgan S, Matthews R, Nevin L, Anderson RA, Spears N. Single and combined effects of cisplatin and doxorubicin on the human and mouse ovary in vitro. Reproduction 2019; 159:193-204. [PMID: 31821159 PMCID: PMC6993208 DOI: 10.1530/rep-19-0279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Chemotherapy drugs are administered to patients using combination regimens, and as such the possibility of multiplicative effects between drugs need to be investigated. This study examines the individual and combined effects of the chemotherapy drugs cisplatin and doxorubicin on the human ovary. Although cisplatin and doxorubicin are known to affect female fertility, there is limited information about their direct effects on the human ovary, and none examining the possibility of combined, multiplicative effects of co-exposure to these drugs. Here, human ovarian biopsies were obtained from 14 women at the time of caesarean section, with 38 mouse ovaries also obtained from neonatal C57Bl/6J mice. Tissue was cultured for 6 days prior to analyses, with chemotherapy drugs added to culture medium on the second day of culture only. Treatment groups of a single (5 μg/mL human; 0.5 μg/mL mouse) or double (10 μg/mL human; 1.0 μg/mL mouse) dose of cisplatin, a single (1 μg/mL human; 0.05 μg/mL mouse) or double (2 μg/mL human; 0.1 μg/mL mouse) dose of doxorubicin or a combination of a single dose of both drugs together were compared to controls without drug exposure. Exposure to cisplatin or doxorubicin significantly decreased follicle health in human and mouse, supporting the suitability of the mouse as a model for the human ovary. There was also a significant reduction of mouse follicle number. Human ovarian stromal tissue exhibited increased apoptosis and decreased cell proliferation. Crucially, there was no evidence indicating the occurrence of multiplicative effects between cisplatin and doxorubicin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Lopes
- F Lopes, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Jin Liu
- J Liu, Department of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Stephanie Morgan
- S Morgan, Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Rebecca Matthews
- R Matthews, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Lucy Nevin
- L Nevin, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Richard A Anderson
- R Anderson, MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Norah Spears
- N Spears, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
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15
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Scaruffi P, Stigliani S, Cardinali B, Massarotti C, Lambertini M, Sozzi F, Dellepiane C, Merlo DF, Anserini P, Del Mastro L. Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone Agonists Have an Anti-apoptotic Effect on Cumulus Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20236045. [PMID: 31801245 PMCID: PMC6928931 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20236045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Ovaries are sensitive to chemotherapy, which may lead to early depletion of primordial follicle reserve. One strategy for gonadal function preservation is temporary ovarian suppression with Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone agonists (GnRHa) during chemotherapy. To date, GnRHa protective mechanism of action remains not fully elucidated. Methods: We collected 260 immature cumulus cell-oocyte complexes (COC) from 111 women < 38 years old, with a normal ovarian reserve. The COC were randomly assigned to the following groups: (a) control; culture with the addition of (b) GnRHa; (c) cyclophosphamide; (d) cyclophosphamide plus GnRHa. After in vitro treatments, RNA and proteins were extracted from oocytes and cumulus cells (CC), separately. Potential effects of drugs were evaluated on GnRH receptors, apoptosis pathways, ceramide pathway, and glutathione synthesis by quantitative PCR and, whenever possible, by Western blot. Results: Cyclophosphamide triggered activation of the extrinsic pathway of apoptosis mediated by BAX in CC. The co-administration of GnRHa inhibited the apoptosis pathway in CC. According to our model, the GnRHa does not directly act on oocytes, which do not express GnRH receptors. Moreover, glutathione synthesis was decreased after GnRHa treatment both in CC and oocytes. Conclusion: Our data suggest that the protective mechanisms induced by GnRHa is mediated by an anti-apoptotic effect on CC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Scaruffi
- UOS Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (P.S.); (S.S.); (F.S.); (P.A.)
| | - Sara Stigliani
- UOS Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (P.S.); (S.S.); (F.S.); (P.A.)
| | - Barbara Cardinali
- Breast Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (B.C.); (C.D.); (L.D.M.)
| | - Claudia Massarotti
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy;
| | - Matteo Lambertini
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy
- U.O.C. Clinica di Oncologia Medica, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-010-555-4254
| | - Fausta Sozzi
- UOS Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (P.S.); (S.S.); (F.S.); (P.A.)
| | - Chiara Dellepiane
- Breast Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (B.C.); (C.D.); (L.D.M.)
| | - Domenico Franco Merlo
- Infrastruttura Ricerca e Statistica, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale—IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy;
| | - Paola Anserini
- UOS Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (P.S.); (S.S.); (F.S.); (P.A.)
| | - Lucia Del Mastro
- Breast Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, 16132 Genoa, Italy; (B.C.); (C.D.); (L.D.M.)
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy
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16
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Ovarian Follicle Depletion Induced by Chemotherapy and the Investigational Stages of Potential Fertility-Protective Treatments-A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20194720. [PMID: 31548505 PMCID: PMC6801789 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20194720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian follicle pool depletion, infertility, and premature menopause are all known sequelae of cancer treatment that negatively impact the quality of life of young cancer survivors. The mechanisms involved in this undesired iatrogenic ovarian damage have been intensively studied, but many of them remain unclear. Several chemotherapeutic drugs have been shown to induce direct and indirect DNA-damage and/or cellular stress, which are often followed by apoptosis and/or autophagy. Damage to the ovarian micro-vessel network induced by chemotherapeutic agents also seems to contribute to ovarian dysfunction. Another proposed mechanism behind ovarian follicle pool depletion is the overactivation of primordial follicles from the quiescent pool; however, current experimental data are inconsistent regarding these effects. There is great interest in characterizing the mechanisms involved in ovarian damage because this might lead to the identification of potentially protective substances as possible future therapeutics. Research in this field is still at an experimental stage, and further investigations are needed to develop effective and individualized treatments for clinical application. This review provides an overview of the current knowledge and the proposed hypothesis behind chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage, as well as current knowledge on possible co-treatments that might protect the ovary and the follicles from such damages.
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17
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Poggio F, Lambertini M, Bighin C, Conte B, Blondeaux E, D'Alonzo A, Dellepiane C, Buzzatti G, Molinelli C, Boccardo F, Del Mastro L. Potential Mechanisms of Ovarian Protection with Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Agonist in Breast Cancer Patients: A Review. CLINICAL MEDICINE INSIGHTS. REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2019; 13:1179558119864584. [PMID: 31391786 PMCID: PMC6669835 DOI: 10.1177/1179558119864584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The use of chemotherapy in premenopausal cancer patients may lead to chemotherapy-induced premature ovarian failure. Pharmacological temporary ovarian suppression obtained with the gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) administered concomitantly with chemotherapy has been investigated as a technique capable to reduce the gonadotoxicity, reducing the risk of developing premature menopause. In recent years, important evidence has become available on the efficacy and safety of this strategy that should now be considered a standard option for ovarian function preservation in premenopausal breast cancer patients. However, in women interested in fertility preservation, this is not an alternative to cryopreservation strategies, which remains the first option to be proposed. The purpose of this review is to summarize the mechanisms of GnRHa in the preservation of fertility in premenopausal cancer patient candidates to receive chemotherapy, highlighting the areas of doubt that require further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matteo Lambertini
- Department of Medical Oncology, Clinica di Oncologia Medica, IRCCS San Martino Hospital, Genova, Italy.,Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (DIMI), School of Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Claudia Bighin
- UO Breast Unit, IRCCS San Martino Hospital, IST, Genova, Italy
| | - Benedetta Conte
- UO Breast Unit, IRCCS San Martino Hospital, IST, Genova, Italy
| | - Eva Blondeaux
- UO Breast Unit, IRCCS San Martino Hospital, IST, Genova, Italy
| | | | | | - Giulia Buzzatti
- UO Breast Unit, IRCCS San Martino Hospital, IST, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Boccardo
- Department of Medical Oncology, Clinica di Oncologia Medica, IRCCS San Martino Hospital, Genova, Italy.,Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (DIMI), School of Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Lucia Del Mastro
- UO Breast Unit, IRCCS San Martino Hospital, IST, Genova, Italy.,Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (DIMI), School of Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
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Bildik G, Acılan C, Sahin GN, Karahuseyinoglu S, Oktem O. C-Abl is not actıvated in DNA damage-induced and Tap63-mediated oocyte apoptosıs in human ovary. Cell Death Dis 2018; 9:943. [PMID: 30237472 PMCID: PMC6148240 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-018-1026-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Revised: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
There is a controversy in literature as to whether c-Abl is crucial for the induction of TAp63-mediated apoptosis and whether that inhibition of c-Abl with imatinib, which was designed to inhibit the oncogenic kinase BCR-ABL and c-kit, protects oocytes from chemotherapy-induced apoptosis in mice. No human data are available on this issue. We therefore aimed to explore whether genomic damage induced by chemotherapy drug cisplatin activates c-Abl along with TAp63 and the inhibition of c-Abl with imatinib prevents cisplatin-induced oocyte death and follicle loss in human ovary. Exposure to cisplatin induced DNA damage, activated TAp63 and SAPK/JNK pathway, and triggered apoptosis in the oocytes and granulosa cells. However, TAp63 activation after cisplatin was not associated with any increase in the expression of c-Abl. Imatinib did not prevent cisplatin-induced apoptosis of the granulosa cells or oocytes. Moreover, treatment with this drug resulted in the formation of bizarre shaped follicles lacking oocytes and increased follicular atresia by inducing apoptosis of granulosa cells and oocytes. Similar toxic effects were observed when ovarian tissue samples were incubated with a c-kit antagonist drug anti-CD117, but not with another c-Abl tyrosine kinase inhibitor GNF-2, which lacks an inhibitory action on c-kit. Intraperitoneal administration of imatinib to the xenografted animals produced similar histomorphological abnormalities in the follicles in human ovarian grafts and did not prevent cisplatin-induced follicle loss when co-administered with cisplatin. Our findings provide, for the first time, a molecular evidence for ovarian toxicity of this drug in human. Furthermore, this study together with two previous case reports of a severely compromised ovarian response to gonadotropin stimulation and premature ovarian failure in patients, while receiving imatinib, further heighten the concerns about its potential gonadotoxicity on human ovary and urge caution in its use in young female patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gamze Bildik
- Graduate School of Health Sciences and School of Medicine, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ceyda Acılan
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, School of Medicine, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gizem Nur Sahin
- Graduate School of Health Sciences and School of Medicine, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sercin Karahuseyinoglu
- Graduate School of Health Sciences and School of Medicine, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ozgur Oktem
- Graduate School of Health Sciences and School of Medicine, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey. .,Translational Research Laboratory in Reproduction and Cancer, Division Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey.
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19
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Oktem O, Kim SS, Selek U, Schatmann G, Urman B. Ovarian and Uterine Functions in Female Survivors of Childhood Cancers. Oncologist 2017; 23:214-224. [PMID: 29158370 DOI: 10.1634/theoncologist.2017-0201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult survivors of childhood cancers are more prone to developing poor reproductive and obstetrical outcomes than their siblings and the general population as a result of previous exposure to chemotherapy and radiation during childhood. Chemotherapy drugs exert cytotoxic effects systemically and therefore can damage the ovaries, leading to infertility, premature ovarian failure, and, to a lesser extent, spontaneous abortions. They have very limited or no deleterious effects on the uterus that can be recognized clinically. By contrast, radiation is detrimental to both the ovaries and the uterus, thereby causing a greater magnitude of adverse effects on the female reproductive function. These include infertility, premature ovarian failure, miscarriage, fetal growth restrictions, perinatal deaths, preterm births, delivery of small-for-gestational-age infants, preeclampsia, and abnormal placentation. Regrettably, the majority of these adverse outcomes arise from radiation-induced uterine injury and are reported at higher incidence in the adult survivors of childhood cancers who were exposed to uterine radiation during childhood in the form of pelvic, spinal, or total-body irradiation. Recent findings of long-term follow-up studies evaluating reproductive performance of female survivors provided some reassurance to female cancer survivors by documenting that pregnancy and live birth rates were not significantly compromised in survivors, including those who had been treated with alkylating agents and had not received pelvic, cranial, and total-body irradiation. We aimed in this narrative review article to provide an update on the impact of chemotherapy and radiation on the ovarian and uterine function in female survivors of childhood cancer. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Adult survivors of childhood cancers are more prone to developing a number of poor reproductive and obstetrical outcomes than their siblings and the general population as a result of previous exposure to chemotherapy and radiation during childhood. The impact of radiation therapy on the female genital system is greater than chemotherapy regimens because radiation is detrimental to both the uterus and the ovaries, whereas toxic effects of chemotherapy drugs are confined to the ovaries. Therefore, radiation-induced uterine damage accounts for most poor obstetrical outcomes in the survivors. These include infertility, miscarriages, stillbirths, fetal growth restrictions, preeclampsia, and preterm deliveries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozgur Oktem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Fertility Preservation Program, American Hospital Women's Health Center, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Samuel S Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Kansas University, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Ugur Selek
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Koc University School of Medicine and MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Care Program, American Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Glenn Schatmann
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Bulent Urman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Fertility Preservation Program, American Hospital Women's Health Center, Istanbul, Turkey
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Rossi V, Lispi M, Longobardi S, Mattei M, Di Rella F, Salustri A, De Felici M, Klinger FG. LH prevents cisplatin-induced apoptosis in oocytes and preserves female fertility in mouse. Cell Death Differ 2016; 24:72-82. [PMID: 27689876 PMCID: PMC5260508 DOI: 10.1038/cdd.2016.97] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2016] [Revised: 07/18/2016] [Accepted: 07/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Premature ovarian failure and female infertility are frequent side effects of anticancer therapies, owing to the extreme sensitivity of the ovarian reserve oocytes to the damaging effects of irradiation and chemotherapy on DNA. We report here a robust protective effect of luteinizing hormone (LH) on the primordial follicle pool of prepubertal ovaries against the cisplatin (Cs)-induced apoptosis. In vitro LH treatment of prepubertal ovarian fragments generated anti-apoptotic signals by a subset of ovarian somatic cells expressing LH receptor (LHR) through cAMP/PKA and Akt pathways. Such signals, reducing the oocyte level of pro-apoptotic TAp63 protein and favoring the repair of the Cs-damaged DNA in the oocytes, prevented their apoptosis. Noteworthy, in vivo administration to prepubertal female mice of a single dose of LH together with Cs inhibited the depletion of the primordial follicle reserve caused by the drug and preserved their fertility in reproductive age, preventing significant alteration in the number of pregnancy and of delivered pups. In conclusion, these findings establish a novel ovoprotective role for LH and further support the very attracting prospective to use physiological 'fertoprotective' approaches for preventing premature infertility and risks linked to precocious menopause in young patients who survived cancer after chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerio Rossi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Monica Lispi
- Medical Affair Department Fertility TA, Merck-Serono SAS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Maurizio Mattei
- STA, Department of Biology, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Di Rella
- UOC Oncologia Medica Senologica, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori, Fondazione G. Pascale, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonietta Salustri
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo De Felici
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca G Klinger
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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Falcone T, Moore HCF. GnRH agonist for gonadal protection during chemotherapy. Hum Reprod 2015; 30:2711-2. [PMID: 26466910 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tommaso Falcone
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine and Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health Institute Cleveland, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Halle C F Moore
- Solid Tumor Oncology, Cleveland Clinic Tausig Cancer Institute, Cleveland, OH, USA
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