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Lassen E, Pacey A, Skytte AB, Montgomerie R. Recent decline in sperm motility among donor candidates at a sperm bank in Denmark. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:1618-1627. [PMID: 38834185 PMCID: PMC11291611 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae115] [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: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Has there been variation in semen quality among men applying to be sperm donors (i.e. donor candidates) in Denmark in recent years (2017-2022)? SUMMARY ANSWER The motile sperm concentration and total motile sperm count (TMSC) in ejaculates-both measures of sperm quality-declined by as much as 22% from 2019 to 2022. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Questions remain about whether human semen quality has declined in recent years. Whilst some studies provide evidence for a decline in human semen quality, these findings have been disputed owing to potential biases in the populations studied or in the methods used to measure semen quality. Resolution of this issue has important implications for human fertility, as well as for those involved in the recruitment of sperm donors for use in medically assisted reproduction. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We obtained data on the semen quality of ejaculates previously collected from 2017 to 2022 at sperm bank locations in four cities in Denmark: Aarhus, Aalborg, Copenhagen, and Odense. Our study focuses on the single semen samples provided by 6758 donor candidates aged between 18 and 45 years old to determine whether their sperm quality met a minimum criterion for them to be accepted as sperm donors. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS All ejaculates were analyzed within 1 hour of production. Semen volume (ml) was estimated by weight and both the concentration (106/ml) of sperm as well as the concentration of motile sperm (World Health Organization grades a and b) were measured using the same protocols and computer-assisted semen analysis system across all years at each site. Statistical analyses of the semen variables were controlled for age and donation site, as well as the average monthly high temperature when the ejaculate was produced. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE From 2017 to 2019, semen volume, sperm concentration, and total sperm count in the ejaculates of donor candidates increased by 2-12%. Then, from 2019 to 2022, sperm concentration and total sperm count changed by 0.1-5% from year to year, but none of those changes were statistically significant. In contrast, both motile sperm concentration and TMSC declined significantly, by 16% and 22%, respectively, between 2019 and 2022. Thus, the concentration of motile sperm in donor candidates declined from 18.4 [95% CL: 17.0, 20.0] million/ml in 2019 to 15.5 [14.4, 16.7] million/ml in 2022, and TMSC declined from 61.4 [55.8, 67.5] million per ejaculate in 2019 to 48.1 [44.1, 52.4] million in 2022. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION We cannot determine from the available data the causes of the decline in semen quality of donor candidates from 2019 to 2022. However, as this period coincides with lockdowns and changes in work patterns during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, it is possible that changes in motile sperm concentration and TMSC were the result of changes in the lifestyles of the men whose semen was analyzed. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Men providing initial semen samples at sperm banks, when applying to be sperm donors, are a useful population in which to monitor changes in human semen quality over time. Our results have implications for human fertility and the recruitment of sperm donors for medically assisted reproduction, where motile sperm concentration is an essential selection criterion because it influences fertility. We suggest that gathering health and lifestyle data on donor candidates at sperm banks might help to identify causal factors for the decline of sperm quality that could be addressed and intervention, if desired, could be personalized for each accepted donor. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) No external funding was obtained for this study. E.L. and A.-B.S. are employees of Cryos International. AP reports paid consultancy for Cryos International, Cytoswim Ltd, Exceed Health, and Merck Serono in the last 2 years of this study, but all monies were paid to the University of Sheffield (former employer). AP is also an unpaid trustee of the Progress Educational Trust (Charity Number 1139856). RM declares support from Cryos International to present results of this research at ESHRE 2023. None of the authors were directly involved in the collection or physical analysis of semen samples. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Lassen
- Cryos International Sperm and Egg Bank, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Allan Pacey
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Core Technology Facility, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Castiglione Morelli MA, Iuliano A, Viggiani L, Matera I, Pistone A, Schettini SCA, Colucci P, Ostuni A. Redox Balance and Inflammatory Response in Follicular Fluids of Women Recovered by SARS-CoV-2 Infection or Anti-COVID-19 Vaccinated: A Combined Metabolomics and Biochemical Study. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8400. [PMID: 39125969 PMCID: PMC11313332 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25158400] [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: 06/20/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
To date, not many studies have presented evidence of SARS-CoV-2 infecting the female reproductive system. Furthermore, so far, no effect of the administration of anti-COVID 19 vaccines has been reported to affect the quality of oocytes retrieved from women who resorted to assisted reproduction technology (ART). The FF metabolic profiles of women who had been infected by SARS-CoV-2 before IVF treatments or after COVID-19 vaccination were examined by 1H NMR. Immunochemical characterization of proteins and cytokines involved in the redox and inflammatory pathways was performed. The increased expression of SOD2 and NQO1, the lack of alteration of IL-6 and CXCL10 levels, as well as the increased expression of CD39, suggested that, both sharing similar molecular mechanisms or proceeding along different routes, the redox balance is controlled in the FF of both vaccinated and recovered women compared to controls. The lower amount of metabolites known to have proinflammatory activity, i.e., TMAO and lipids, further supported the biochemical results, suggesting that the FF microenvironment is controlled so as to guarantee oocyte quality and does not compromise the outcome of ART. In terms of the number of blastocysts obtained after ICSI and the pregnancy rate, the results are also comforting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Assunta Iuliano
- Center for Reproductive Medicine of “San Carlo” Hospital, 85100 Potenza, Italy; (A.I.); (S.C.A.S.); (P.C.)
| | - Licia Viggiani
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy; (M.A.C.M.); (L.V.); (I.M.); (A.P.)
| | - Ilenia Matera
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy; (M.A.C.M.); (L.V.); (I.M.); (A.P.)
| | - Alessandro Pistone
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy; (M.A.C.M.); (L.V.); (I.M.); (A.P.)
| | - Sergio C. A. Schettini
- Center for Reproductive Medicine of “San Carlo” Hospital, 85100 Potenza, Italy; (A.I.); (S.C.A.S.); (P.C.)
| | - Paola Colucci
- Center for Reproductive Medicine of “San Carlo” Hospital, 85100 Potenza, Italy; (A.I.); (S.C.A.S.); (P.C.)
| | - Angela Ostuni
- Department of Sciences, University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy; (M.A.C.M.); (L.V.); (I.M.); (A.P.)
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3
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Wei SQ, Luu TM, Ayoub A, Lewin A, Auger N. Assisted Reproductive Technology During COVID-19: A Population-Based Study Of Pregnancy Outcomes. Reprod Sci 2024:10.1007/s43032-024-01649-x. [PMID: 39030447 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01649-x] [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: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
We assessed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the pregnancy outcomes of patients who used assisted reproductive technology. We conducted a population-based cohort study of 443,101 patients who conceived naturally or with assisted reproductive technology between December 2015 and July 2021 and had a delivery in hospitals of Quebec, Canada. The main exposure measure was use of assisted reproductive technology before or during the pandemic. Outcomes included preeclampsia, preterm birth, and other pregnancy complications. We used adjusted log-binomial regression models to estimate risk ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association of assisted reproductive technology with adverse pregnancy outcomes compared with natural conception before vs. during the pandemic. In secondary analyses, we examined the association of COVID-19 infection with pregnancy outcomes among women who used assisted reproductive technology. Compared with natural conception, assisted reproductive technology was associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia (RR 1.43; 95% CI 1.21-1.68), preterm birth (RR 2.07; 95% CI 1.84-2.33), and low birth weight (RR 1.94; 95% CI 1.72-2.20) during the pandemic. However, the same risks were also present before the pandemic. Compared with no infection, COVID-19 infection was not associated with adverse outcomes among women who conceived with assisted reproductive technology. This study suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic did not significantly impact the pregnancy outcomes of women who underwent assisted reproductive procedures in Quebec. The findings are reassuring for patients concerned about the potential reproductive effects of the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Qin Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Institut national de santé publique du Québec, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Thuy Mai Luu
- Department of Pediatrics, Sainte-Justine Hospital Research Centre, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Aimina Ayoub
- Institut national de santé publique du Québec, Montreal, QC, Canada
- University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Antoine Lewin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sherbrooke University, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Nathalie Auger
- Institut national de santé publique du Québec, Montreal, QC, Canada.
- University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada.
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada.
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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Yadav PK, Pandey AN, Premkumar KV, Tiwari M, Pandey AK, Chaube SK. Follicular oocyte as a potential target for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. Rev Med Virol 2024; 34:e2568. [PMID: 38937111 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2568] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was reported in December 2019 and rapidly became a pandemic as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Apart from other organs, presence of specific receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE2) and corresponding proteases such as transmembrane serine protease 2, basigin and cysteine protease cathepsin L make follicular somatic cells as well as oocyte as potential targets for SARS-CoV-2 infection. The SARS-CoV-2 causes inflammation and hypoxia that generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) in critically ill patients. In addition, a large number of casualties and insecurity of life due to repeated waves of SARS-CoV-2 infection generate psychological stress and cortisol resulting in the further generation of ROS. The excess levels of ROS under physiological range cause meiotic instability, while high levels result in oxidative stress that trigger various death pathways and affect number as well as quality of follicular oocytes. Although, emerging evidence suggests that the SARS-CoV-2 utilises cellular machinery of ovarian follicular cells, generates ROS and impairs quality of follicular oocytes, the underlying mechanism of viral entry into host cell and its negative impact on the follicular oocyte remains poorly understood. Therefore, this review summarises emerging evidence on the presence of cellular machinery for SARS-CoV-2 in ovarian follicles and the potential negative impact of viral infection on the follicular oocytes that affect ovarian functions in critically ill and stressed women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pramod K Yadav
- Cell Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Ashutosh N Pandey
- Cell Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Karuppanan V Premkumar
- Cell Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Meenakshi Tiwari
- Cell Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Ajai K Pandey
- Department of Kayachikitsa, Faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shail K Chaube
- Cell Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Zhao Y, Wan Y, Hu X, Tong X, Xu B, Jiang X, Bai S, Cao C. SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination Improves Semen Quality in Men Recovered From COVID-19: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Am J Mens Health 2024; 18:15579883241264120. [PMID: 39054777 PMCID: PMC11282512 DOI: 10.1177/15579883241264120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been reported to decrease semen quality in reproductive-age men. Semen quality in vaccinated men after SARS-CoV-2 infection remains unclear. We recruited reproductive-age Chinese men scheduled for COVID-19 vaccination from December 2022 to March 2023. Among 1,639 vaccinated participants, an upward trend was found in sperm concentration (p < .001), progressive motility (p < .001), total motility (p < .001), total motile sperm count (TMSC) (p < .001), and normal morphology (p = .01) over time following COVID-19 recovery. Among men with an SARS-CoV-2 infection that lasted less than 30 days, men who received an inactivated vaccine booster had higher sperm progressive (p = .006) and total motility (p = .005) as well as TMSC (p = .008) than those without a booster vaccine, whereas no difference was found in semen parameters among men who received a recombinant protein vaccine. Similarly, an upward trend in semen quality was found among 122 men who provided semen samples before and after COVID-19. Higher risks of asthenozoospermia (odds ratio [OR] = 2.23, p < .001) and teratozoospermia (OR = 2.09, p = .03) were found among men who had an SARS-CoV-2 infection that lasted less than 30 days than among those without COVID-19. Collectively, after receiving SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, adverse but reversible semen parameters were observed in men recovering from COVID-19 over time. Recombinant protein vaccines and inactivated vaccine boosters should be recommended to all reproductive-age men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanqi Zhao
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, P.R. China
- Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, P.R. China
| | - Yangyang Wan
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, P.R. China
| | - Xuechun Hu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, P.R. China
| | - Xianhong Tong
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, P.R. China
| | - Bo Xu
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, P.R. China
| | - Xiaohua Jiang
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, P.R. China
| | - Shun Bai
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, P.R. China
| | - Cheng Cao
- Center for Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, P.R. China
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Ko Y, Chen L, Zhou C, Xi J, Xiao Y, Chen X. Influence of COVID-19 infection on early pregnancy outcomes in different periods around frozen embryo transfer. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:440. [PMID: 38914960 PMCID: PMC11194866 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-024-06646-1] [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: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The study aimed to investigate the potential influence of COVID-19 infection on embryo implantation and early development in women undergoing frozen embryo transfer (FET), with a specific focus on infections occurring at different periods around FET. METHODS A retrospective analysis was performed on women who had undergone FET during a period marked by a significant surge in COVID-19 infection in Shanghai. All enrolled women experienced their first documented COVID-19 infection around the time of FET, ensuring that infections did not occur prior to oocyte retrieval. Participants were categorized into six groups based on the timing of infection: uninfected, ≥ 60 days, < 60 days before FET, 0-14 days, 15-28 days, and 29-70 days after FET. Clinical outcomes were compared across these groups. RESULTS The infection rate among the total of 709 cases was 78.28%. Infected individuals exhibited either asymptomatic or mild symptoms. The ongoing pregnancy rates for the first four groups were 40.7%, 44.4%, 40.5%, and 34.2% (P = 0.709) respectively, biochemical pregnancy rates (59.1% vs. 61.1% vs. 67.6% vs. 55.7%, P = 0.471) and clinical pregnancy rates (49.6% vs. 55.6% vs. 55.4% vs. 48.1%, P = 0.749), all showed no significant differences. Early spontaneous abortion rates across all six groups were 18.3%, 20.0%, 25.0%, 28.9%, 5.4%, and 19.0% respectively, with no significant differences (P = 0.113). Multivariable logistic analysis revealed no significant correlation between the infection and ongoing pregnancy. CONCLUSION Asymptomatic or mild COVID-19 infections occurring around FET do not appear to have a significant adverse impact on early pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiling Ko
- Reproductive Medical Center, School of Medicine, The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai, 200030, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Luting Chen
- Reproductive Medical Center, School of Medicine, The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai, 200030, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Chengliang Zhou
- Reproductive Medical Center, School of Medicine, The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai, 200030, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Ji Xi
- Reproductive Medical Center, School of Medicine, The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai, 200030, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Yu Xiao
- Reproductive Medical Center, School of Medicine, The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai, 200030, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China.
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
| | - Xiaojun Chen
- Reproductive Medical Center, School of Medicine, The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai, 200030, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China.
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
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Kelson VC, Kiser JN, Davenport KM, Suarez EM, Murdoch BM, Neibergs HL. Identifying Regions of the Genome Associated with Conception Rate to the First Service in Holstein Heifers Bred by Artificial Insemination and as Embryo Transfer Recipients. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:765. [PMID: 38927701 PMCID: PMC11202900 DOI: 10.3390/genes15060765] [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: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Heifer conception rate to the first service (HCR1) is defined as the number of heifers that become pregnant to the first breeding service compared to the heifers bred. This study aimed to identify loci associated and gene sets enriched for HCR1 for heifers that were bred by artificial insemination (AI, n = 2829) or were embryo transfer (ET, n = 2086) recipients, by completing a genome-wide association analysis and gene set enrichment analysis using SNP data (GSEA-SNP). Three unique loci, containing four positional candidate genes, were associated (p < 1 × 10-5) with HCR1 for ET recipients, while the GSEA-SNP identified four gene sets (NES ≥ 3) and sixty-two leading edge genes (LEGs) enriched for HCR1. While no loci were associated with HCR1 bred by AI, one gene set and twelve LEGs were enriched (NES ≥ 3) for HCR1 with the GSEA-SNP. This included one gene (PKD2) shared between HCR1 AI and ET services. Identifying loci associated or enriched for HCR1 provides an opportunity to use them as genomic selection tools to facilitate the selection of cattle with higher reproductive efficiency, and to better understand embryonic loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria C. Kelson
- Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99163, USA; (V.C.K.); (K.M.D.); (E.M.S.)
| | - Jennifer N. Kiser
- Washington Animal Disease Diagnostics Laboratory, Pullman, WA 99164, USA;
| | - Kimberly M. Davenport
- Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99163, USA; (V.C.K.); (K.M.D.); (E.M.S.)
| | - Emaly M. Suarez
- Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99163, USA; (V.C.K.); (K.M.D.); (E.M.S.)
| | - Brenda M. Murdoch
- Department of Animal, Veterinary and Food Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844, USA;
| | - Holly L. Neibergs
- Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99163, USA; (V.C.K.); (K.M.D.); (E.M.S.)
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Lu Y, He Y, Wang Y, Zhu Q, Qi J, Li X, Ding Y, Huang J, Ding Z, Xu Y, Yang Y, Lindheim SR, Wei Z, Sun Y. Effects of SARS-COV-2 infection during the frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycle on embryo implantation and pregnancy outcomes. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:1239-1246. [PMID: 38604654 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae068] [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: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection during the frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycle affect embryo implantation and pregnancy rates? SUMMARY ANSWER There is no evidence that SARS-CoV-2 infection of women during the FET cycle negatively affects embryo implantation and pregnancy rates. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), as a multi-systemic disease, poses a threat to reproductive health. However, the effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on embryo implantation and pregnancy following fertility treatments, particularly FET, remain largely unknown. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This retrospective cohort study, included women who underwent FET cycles between 1 November 2022 and 31 December 2022 at an academic fertility centre. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Women who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 during their FET cycles were included in the COVID-19 group, while those who tested negative during the same study period were included in the non-COVID-19 group. The primary outcome was ongoing pregnancy rate. Secondary outcomes included rates of implantation, biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, early pregnancy loss, and ongoing pregnancy. Multivariate logistic regression models were applied to adjust for potential confounders including age, body mass index, gravidity, vaccination status, and endometrial preparation regimen. Subgroup analyses were conducted by time of infection with respect to transfer (prior to transfer, 1-7 days after transfer, or 8-14 days after transfer) and by level of fever (no fever, fever <39°C, or fever ≥39°C). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A total of 243 and 305 women were included in the COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 group, respectively. The rates of biochemical pregnancy (58.8% vs 62.0%, P = 0.46), clinical pregnancy (53.1% vs 54.4%, P = 0.76), implantation (46.4% vs 46.2%, P = 0.95), early pregnancy loss (24.5% vs 26.5%, P = 0.68), and ongoing pregnancy (44.4% vs 45.6%, P = 0.79) were all comparable between groups with or without infection. Results of logistic regression models, both before and after adjustment, revealed no associations between SARS-CoV-2 infection and rates of biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, early pregnancy loss, or ongoing pregnancy. Moreover, neither the time of infection with respect to transfer (prior to transfer, 1-7 days after transfer, or 8-14 days after transfer) nor the level of fever (no fever, fever <39°C, or fever ≥39°C) was found to be related to pregnancy rates. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The retrospective nature of the study is subject to possible selection bias. Additionally, although the sample size was relatively large for the COVID-19 group, the sample sizes for certain subgroups were relatively small and lacked adequate power, so these results should be interpreted with caution. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The study findings suggest that SARS-CoV-2 infection during the FET cycle in females does not affect embryo implantation and pregnancy rates including biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, early pregnancy loss, and ongoing pregnancy, indicating that cycle cancellation due to SARS-CoV-2 infection may not be necessary. Further studies are warranted to verify these findings. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China (2023YFC2705500, 2019YFA0802604), National Natural Science Foundation of China (82130046, 82101747), Shanghai leading talent program, Innovative research team of high-level local universities in Shanghai (SHSMU-ZLCX20210201, SHSMU-ZLCX20210200, SSMU-ZLCX20180401), Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Affiliated Renji Hospital Clinical Research Innovation Cultivation Fund Program (RJPY-DZX-003), Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (23Y11901400), Shanghai Sailing Program (21YF1425000), Shanghai's Top Priority Research Center Construction Project (2023ZZ02002), Three-Year Action Plan for Strengthening the Construction of the Public Health System in Shanghai (GWVI-11.1-36), and Shanghai Municipal Education Commission-Gaofeng Clinical Medicine Grant Support (20161413). The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Lu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Yaqiong He
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Qinling Zhu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia Qi
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinyu Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Ding
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiaan Huang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Ziyin Ding
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Yurui Xu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanan Yang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Steven R Lindheim
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor Scott & White, Temple, TX, USA
| | - Zhe Wei
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Yun Sun
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Immune Therapy Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine-Affiliated Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
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9
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Huang J, Fang Z, Wu X, Xia L, Liu Y, Wang J, Su Y, Xu D, Zhang K, Xie Q, Chen J, Liu P, Wu Q, Tan J, Kuang H, Tian L. Transcriptomic responses of cumulus granulosa cells to SARS-CoV-2 infection during controlled ovarian stimulation. Apoptosis 2024; 29:649-662. [PMID: 38409352 DOI: 10.1007/s10495-024-01942-9] [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] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Cumulus granulosa cells (CGCs) play a crucial role in follicular development, but so far, no research has explored the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on ovarian function from the perspective of CGCs. In the present study, we compared the cycle outcomes between infected and uninfected female patients undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation, performed bulk RNA-sequencing of collected CGCs, and used bioinformatic methods to explore transcriptomic changes. The results showed that women with SARS-CoV-2 infection during stimulation had significantly lower number of oocytes retrieved and follicle-oocyte index, while subsequent fertilization and embryo development were similar. CGCs were not directly infected by SARS-CoV-2, but exhibited dramatic differences in gene expression (156 up-regulated and 65 down-regulated). Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses demonstrated a high enrichment in antiviral, immune and inflammatory responses with necroptosis. In addition, the pathways related to telomere organization and double strand break repair were significantly affected by infection in gene set enrichment analysis. Further weighted gene co-expression network analysis identified a key module associated with ovarian response traits, which was mainly enriched as a decrease of leukocyte chemotaxis and migration in CGCs. For the first time, our study describes how SARS-CoV-2 infection indirectly affects CGCs at the transcriptional level, which may impair oocyte-CGC crosstalk and consequently lead to poor ovarian response during fertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialyu Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang Medical College, 318 Bayi Avenue, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Zheng Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xingwu Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang Medical College, 318 Bayi Avenue, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Leizhen Xia
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang Medical College, 318 Bayi Avenue, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Yuxin Liu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Queen Mary, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jiawei Wang
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Yufang Su
- Department of Oncology, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Dingfei Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang Medical College, 318 Bayi Avenue, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Ke Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang Medical College, 318 Bayi Avenue, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Qiqi Xie
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang Medical College, 318 Bayi Avenue, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Jia Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang Medical College, 318 Bayi Avenue, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Peipei Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang Medical College, 318 Bayi Avenue, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Qiongfang Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang Medical College, 318 Bayi Avenue, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Jun Tan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang Medical College, 318 Bayi Avenue, Nanchang, 330006, China.
| | - Haibin Kuang
- Department of Physiology, Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, 461 Bayi Avenue, Nanchang, China.
| | - Lifeng Tian
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang Medical College, 318 Bayi Avenue, Nanchang, 330006, China.
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10
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Dörr T, Güsewell S, Cusini A, Brucher A, Goppel S, Grässli F, Betschon E, Möller J, Ortner M, Ruetti M, Stocker R, Vuichard‐Gysin D, Besold U, Risch L, von Kietzell M, Schlegel M, Kuster S, Kahlert C, Kohler P. SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination is Not Associated With Involuntary Childlessness in Female Healthcare Workers: A Multicenter Cohort Study. Influenza Other Respir Viruses 2024; 18:e13333. [PMID: 38845394 PMCID: PMC11157148 DOI: 10.1111/irv.13333] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is debate about the causes of the recent birth rate decline in high-income countries worldwide. During the pandemic, concern about the effects on reproductive health has caused vaccine hesitancy. We investigated the association of SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and infection with involuntary childlessness. METHODS Females in fertility age within a prospective multicenter cohort of healthcare workers (HCW) were followed since August 2020. Data on baseline health, SARS-CoV-2-infection, and vaccination were obtained and regularly updated, in which serum samples were collected repetitively and screened for anti-nucleocapsid and anti-spike antibodies. In October 2023, participants indicated the presence of involuntary childlessness with onset during the pandemic, whereas those indicating an onset before the pandemic were excluded. The association of involuntary childlessness and SARS-CoV-2-vaccination and infection was investigated using univariable and multivariable analysis. Sensitivity analysis was performed to compare those reporting involuntary childlessness with those birthing a child since 2020. RESULTS Of 798 participants, 26 (3.2%) reported involuntary childlessness starting since the pandemic. Of the involuntary childless women, 73.1% (19/26) were vaccinated compared to 86.0% (664/772) without involuntary childlessness (p = 0.73). SARS-CoV-2 infection was reported by 76.9% (20/26) compared to 72.4% (559/772) of controls (p = 0.64). Neither SARS-CoV-2 vaccination (aOR 0.91 per dose, 95%CI 0.67-1.26) nor infection (aOR per infection 1.05, 95%CI 0.62-1.71) was associated with involuntary childlessness. Sensitivity analysis confirmed these results. CONCLUSIONS Among female HCW of fertility age, 3.2% indicated involuntary childlessness, which is comparable to pre-pandemic data. No association between involuntary childlessness and SARS-CoV-2 vaccination or infection was found.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Dörr
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital EpidemiologyCantonal Hospital St GallenSt GallenSwitzerland
| | - Sabine Güsewell
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital EpidemiologyCantonal Hospital St GallenSt GallenSwitzerland
| | - Alexia Cusini
- Division of Infectious DiseasesCantonal Hospital GraubündenChurSwitzerland
| | - Angela Brucher
- Psychiatry Services of the Canton of St. Gallen (South)St GallenSwitzerland
| | - Stephan Goppel
- Ambulatory ServicesPsychiatry Services of the Canton of St. Gallen (North)St. GallenSwitzerland
| | - Fabian Grässli
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital EpidemiologyCantonal Hospital St GallenSt GallenSwitzerland
| | | | | | - Manuela Ortner
- Rheintal Werdenberg Sarganserland Hospital GroupGrabsSwitzerland
| | - Markus Ruetti
- Fuerstenland Toggenburg Hospital GroupWilSwitzerland
| | | | - Danielle Vuichard‐Gysin
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital EpidemiologyThurgau Hospital GroupMuensterlingenSwitzerland
- Department of Research and DevelopmentSwiss National Centre for Infection Prevention (Swissnoso)BerneSwitzerland
| | | | - Lorenz Risch
- Labormedizinisches Zentrum Dr Risch Ostschweiz AGBuchsSwitzerland
- Private Universität im Fürstentum LiechtensteinTriesenLiechtenstein
- Centre of Laboratory MedicineUniversity Institute of Clinical Chemistry, University of Bern, InselspitalBernSwitzerland
| | | | - Matthias Schlegel
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital EpidemiologyCantonal Hospital St GallenSt GallenSwitzerland
| | - Stefan P. Kuster
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital EpidemiologyCantonal Hospital St GallenSt GallenSwitzerland
| | - Christian R. Kahlert
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital EpidemiologyCantonal Hospital St GallenSt GallenSwitzerland
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital EpidemiologyChildren's Hospital of Eastern SwitzerlandSt. GallenSwitzerland
| | - Philipp Kohler
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital EpidemiologyCantonal Hospital St GallenSt GallenSwitzerland
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11
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Zhang Y, Chen S, Tian Y, Fu X. Host factors of SARS-CoV-2 in infection, pathogenesis, and long-term effects. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1407261. [PMID: 38846354 PMCID: PMC11155306 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1407261] [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: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is the causative virus of the devastating COVID-19 pandemic that results in an unparalleled global health and economic crisis. Despite unprecedented scientific efforts and therapeutic interventions, the fight against COVID-19 continues as the rapid emergence of different SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern and the increasing challenge of long COVID-19, raising a vast demand to understand the pathomechanisms of COVID-19 and its long-term sequelae and develop therapeutic strategies beyond the virus per se. Notably, in addition to the virus itself, the replication cycle of SARS-CoV-2 and clinical severity of COVID-19 is also governed by host factors. In this review, we therefore comprehensively overview the replication cycle and pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 from the perspective of host factors and host-virus interactions. We sequentially outline the pathological implications of molecular interactions between host factors and SARS-CoV-2 in multi-organ and multi-system long COVID-19, and summarize current therapeutic strategies and agents targeting host factors for treating these diseases. This knowledge would be key for the identification of new pathophysiological aspects and mechanisms, and the development of actionable therapeutic targets and strategies for tackling COVID-19 and its sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yan Tian
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Medical School, West China Hospital and Cancer Center, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan, Chengdu, China
| | - Xianghui Fu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Medical School, West China Hospital and Cancer Center, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan, Chengdu, China
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12
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Al‐Haddad HS, Mossa HAL, Muhammed AA, Jumaah AS, McAllister KA, Yasseen AA. The impact of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine on intracytoplasmic sperm injection outcomes at a fertility center in Iraq: A prospective cohort study. Health Sci Rep 2024; 7:e2142. [PMID: 38784253 PMCID: PMC11112633 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.2142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a major public health problem that requires preventative vaccines. However, there is vaccine hesitancy among women of reproductive age in Iraq. This study aimed to investigate SARS-CoV-2 vaccination effects on intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and related fertility parameters. Methods The study population comprised 54 infertile patients undergoing the ICSI procedure at a fertility clinic: vaccinated (n = 17) and non-vaccinated (n = 37). SARS-CoV-2-IgG/mL was assayed in follicular fluid from patients. Fertility parameters were assessed using oocyte and embryo quality and pregnancy outcomes between study groups, with respect to the time interval from vaccination to ova pick up. Results There were no significant differences between non-vaccinated and vaccinated groups in respect of oocytes quality with regard to the mean number of picked up oocytes (p = 0.564), abnormal oocyte (p = 0.827), oocytes metaphase I and II (p = 0.306; p = 0.165), germinal vesicles (p = 0.076), grade I, II, and III fertilized oocytes (p > 0.05), and for maturation rate (p = 0.13). There were also no significant differences (p > 0.05) in embryo quality parameters with the mean number of grade I, II, and III fertilized oocytes and the fertilization rate, the number of transferred embryo (0.086). There were no significant differences between vaccinated and unvaccinated groups with respect to follicular fluid SARS-CoV-2-IgG (p = 0.854), and pregnancy outcomes (p = 0.550). Conclusions The COVID-19 mRNA vaccine has no effect on ICSI, fertility parameters, and pregnancy outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Alaa Salah Jumaah
- Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of KufaIraq
| | | | - Akeel Abed Yasseen
- Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of KufaIraq
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13
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Hu X, Feng G, Chen Q, Sang Y, Chen Q, Wang S, Liu S, Bai L, Zhu Y. The impact and inflammatory characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 infection during ovarian stimulation on the outcomes of assisted reproductive treatment. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1353068. [PMID: 38726341 PMCID: PMC11079226 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1353068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Despite the global prevalence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), limited research has been conducted on the effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on human reproduction. The aims of this study were to investigate the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection during controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) on the outcomes of assisted reproductive treatment (ART) and the cytokine status of patients. Methods This retrospective cohort study included 202 couples who received ART treatment, 101 couples infected with SARS-CoV-2 during COS and 101 matched uninfected couples. The parameters of ovarian stimulation and pregnancy outcomes were compared between the two groups. The All-Human Inflammation Array Q3 kit was utilized to measure cytokine levels in both blood and follicular fluid. Results No difference was found in the number of good-quality embryos (3.3 ± 3.1 vs. 3.0 ± 2.2, P = 0.553) between the infected and uninfected groups. Among couples who received fresh embryo transfers, no difference was observed in clinical pregnancy rate (53.3% vs. 51.5%, P = 0.907). The rates of fertilization, implantation, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy and live birth were also comparable between the two groups. After adjustments were made for confounders, regression models indicated that the quality of embryos (B = 0.16, P = 0.605) and clinical pregnancy rate (P = 0.206) remained unaffected by SARS-CoV-2 infection. The serum levels of MCP-1, TIMP-1, I-309, TNF-RI and TNF-RII were increased, while that of eotaxin-2 was decreased in COVID-19 patients. No significant difference was found in the levels of cytokines in follicular fluid between the two groups. Conclusion Asymptomatic or mild COVID-19 during COS had no adverse effects on ART outcomes. Although mild inflammation was present in the serum, it was not detected in the follicular fluid of these patients. The subsequent immune response needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoling Hu
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Guofang Feng
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qichao Chen
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yimiao Sang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qingqing Chen
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Sisi Wang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shuangying Liu
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Long Bai
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics, Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yimin Zhu
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics, Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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14
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Li XF, Zhang YJ, Yao YL, Chen MX, Wang LL, Wang MD, Hu XY, Tang XJ, Zhong ZH, Fu LJ, Luo X, Lv XY, Geng LH, Wan Q, Ding YB. The association of post-embryo transfer SARS-CoV-2 infection with early pregnancy outcomes in in vitro fertilization: a prospective cohort study. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2024; 230:436.e1-436.e12. [PMID: 38135094 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.12.022] [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: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The influence of SARS-CoV-2 infection after embryo transfer on early pregnancy outcomes in in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection-embryo transfer treatment remains inadequately understood. This knowledge gap endures despite an abundance of studies investigating the repercussions of preceding SARS-CoV-2 infection on early pregnancy outcomes in spontaneous pregnancies. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the association between SARS-CoV-2 infection within 10 weeks after embryo transfer and early pregnancy outcomes in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection treatment. STUDY DESIGN This prospective cohort study was conducted at a single public in vitro fertilization center in China. Female patients aged 20 to 39 years, with a body mass index ranging from 18 to 30 kg/m2, undergoing in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection treatment, were enrolled between September 2022 and December 2022, with follow-up extended until March 2023. The study tracked SARS-CoV-2 infection time (≤14 days, ≤28 days, and ≤10 weeks after embryo transfer), symptoms, vaccination status, the interval between vaccination and embryo transfer, and early pregnancy outcomes, encompassing biochemical pregnancy rate, implantation rate, clinical pregnancy rate, and early miscarriage rate. The study used single-factor analysis and multivariate logistic regression to examine the association between SARS-CoV-2 infection status, along with other relevant factors, and the early pregnancy outcomes. RESULTS A total of 857 female patients undergoing in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection treatment were analyzed. In the first stage, SARS-CoV-2 infection within 14 days after embryo transfer did not have a significant negative association with the biochemical pregnancy rate (adjusted odds ratio, 0.74; 95% confidence interval, 0.51-1.09). In the second stage, SARS-CoV-2 infection within 28 days after embryo transfer had no significant association with the implantation rate (36.6% in infected vs 44.0% in uninfected group; P=.181). No statistically significant association was found with the clinical pregnancy rate after adjusting for confounding factors (adjusted odds ratio, 0.69; 95% confidence interval, 0.56-1.09). In the third stage, SARS-CoV-2 infection within 10 weeks after embryo transfer had no significant association with the early miscarriage rate (adjusted odds ratio, 0.77; 95% confidence interval, 0.35-1.71). CONCLUSION Our study suggests that SARS-CoV-2 infection within 10 weeks after embryo transfer may not be negatively associated with the biochemical pregnancy rate, implantation rate, clinical pregnancy rate, and early miscarriage rate in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection treatment. It is important to note that these findings are specific to the target population of in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection patients aged 20 to 39 years, without previous SARS-CoV-2 infection, and with a body mass index of 18 to 30 kg/m2. This information offers valuable insights, addressing current concerns and providing a clearer understanding of the actual risk associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection after embryo transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Fei Li
- Reproductive Center, Sichuan Jinxin Xinan Women and Children's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Yong-Jia Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ying-Ling Yao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ming-Xing Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li-Li Wang
- Reproductive Center, Sichuan Jinxin Xinan Women and Children's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Meng-Di Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xin-Yue Hu
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiao-Jun Tang
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhao-Hui Zhong
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li-Juan Fu
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Department of Pharmacology, Academician Workstation, Changsha Medical University, Changsha, China
| | - Xin Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xing-Yu Lv
- Reproductive Center, Sichuan Jinxin Xinan Women and Children's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Li-Hong Geng
- Reproductive Center, Sichuan Jinxin Xinan Women and Children's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Qi Wan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China; Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, China
| | - Yu-Bin Ding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction and Development of the Ministry of Education of China, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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15
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Al-Bdairi AA, Makki HA, Shawki O, Alkhudair SH, Al-Hilli NM, Alkhalidi BA, Alkadhim HK, Shweliyya AA. The Multi-faceted Effects of COVID-19 on Female Reproductive Health: An Updated Narrative Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e57944. [PMID: 38738039 PMCID: PMC11082527 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.57944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Concerns about the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic's possible impact on sexual and reproductive health have grown significantly. In this narrative review, the latest research on the effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on several facets of sexual and reproductive health is reviewed. The review starts initially by going through the possible consequences of SARS-CoV-2 on female menstrual cycles. The virus may interfere with the menstrual cycle, which could affect hormone synthesis and endometrial reactions, according to newly available evidence. Menstrual blood loss may be impacted by COVID-19's potential to influence endothelial cell function and systemic hemostasis. Hypothalamic amenorrhea may be brought on by severe COVID-19 disease. There is little research on this subject, although most women resume their regular menstrual cycles after 1-2 months of recuperation. The review also examines how SARS-CoV-2 infection may affect assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatments. There are few clinical data, although some research points to potential effects on embryo quality. Overall, ART results, however, did not materially change from the time before the epidemic. Obstetric problems are more likely when SARS-CoV-2 infection occurs during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. Even though the maternal death rate is still low, pregnant women, especially those with comorbidities, are more likely to experience serious sickness. The review emphasizes how the COVID-19 vaccine affects menstrual cycles, showing brief, modest modifications without serious health hazards. Also included are the psychological effects of family planning choices during the pandemic. In conclusion, this narrative review offers a thorough assessment of the complicated and changing effects of SARS-CoV-2 on sexual and reproductive health. The different requirements of people and couples during and after the pandemic are highlighted, underscoring the necessity for ongoing study and specialized healthcare practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adnan A Al-Bdairi
- Infertility, Assisted Reproductive Technologies, Teba IVF and Genetic Center, Babylon, IRQ
| | - Hayder A Makki
- Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Babylon, Babylon, IRQ
| | - Osama Shawki
- Gynecology Surgery, School of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, EGY
| | - Sallama H Alkhudair
- Fertility, Assisted Reproductive Technology, Alzaitoon Specialized Fertility Center, Baghdad, IRQ
| | - Nadia M Al-Hilli
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Babylon, Babylon, IRQ
| | - Batool A Alkhalidi
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Kufa, Najaf, IRQ
| | - Hanan K Alkadhim
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Iraqi Fertility Society, College of Medicine, University of Babylon, Babylon, IRQ
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16
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Li Y, Zhao Q, Ma S, Tang S, Lu G, Lin G, Gong F. SARS-CoV-2 infection is detrimental to pregnancy outcomes after embryo transfer in IVF/ICSI: a prospective cohort study. BMC Med 2024; 22:124. [PMID: 38500129 PMCID: PMC10949839 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-024-03336-9] [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: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To explore whether SARS-CoV-2 infection affects the pregnancy outcomes of assisted reproductive techniques (ART). METHODS A prospective cohort study recruited patients for embryo transfer from December 01, 2022, to December 31, 2022. All patients were closely followed up for SARS-CoV-2 infection after embryo transfer. The SARS-CoV-2 "diagnosed group" was defined as RNA or antigen-positive. The SARS-CoV-2 "suspected infection group" was defined as having apparent SARS-CoV-2 symptoms without an RNA or antigen test, while the "uninfected group" was defined as having a negative SARS-CoV-2 RNA or antigen test and no SARS-CoV-2 symptoms. RESULTS A total of 1330 patients participated in the study, 687 of whom were in the SARS-CoV-2 diagnosed group, 219 in the suspected infection group, and 424 in the uninfected group. There was no significant difference in basic characteristics among the three groups. The clinical pregnancy rate was 68% in the SARS-CoV-2 diagnosed group, 63% in the uninfected group, and 51% in the suspected infection group (P < 0.001). The ongoing pregnancy rate was 58% in the SARS-CoV-2 diagnosed group, 53% in the uninfected group, and 45% in the suspected infection group (P < 0.001). Upon analyzing the factors influencing clinical pregnancy, it was found that suspected infection (odds ratio [OR] 0.618, 95% CI 0.444-0.862, P = 0.005) and the short time (≤ 22 days) between embryo transfer and SARS-CoV-2 infection (OR 3.76, 95% CI 1.92-8.24, P < 0.001) were not conducive to clinical pregnancy. In addition, the concurrent presence of fever and dizziness/headache SARS-CoV-2 symptoms (OR 0.715, 95% CI 0.526-0.972, P = 0.032) decreased the clinical pregnancy rate. However, vaccination administered 2-3 times (OR 1.804, 95% CI 1.332-2.444, P < 0.001) was associated with an improvement in clinical pregnancy rate. CONCLUSIONS This prospective cohort study shows that SARS-CoV-2 infection in a short period of time after embryo transfer is not conducive to clinical pregnancy. Reproductive physicians should advise patients to avoid SARS-CoV-2 infection shortly after embryo transfer. Meanwhile, women should be encouraged to vaccinate at least 2-3 times before embryo transfer or pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Li
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, No. 567 Tongzipo West Road, Yuelu District, Hunan, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Qi Zhao
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, No. 567 Tongzipo West Road, Yuelu District, Hunan, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Shujuan Ma
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, No. 567 Tongzipo West Road, Yuelu District, Hunan, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Sha Tang
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, No. 567 Tongzipo West Road, Yuelu District, Hunan, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Guangxiu Lu
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, No. 567 Tongzipo West Road, Yuelu District, Hunan, Changsha, 410008, China
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, Key Laboratory of National Health and Family Planning Commission, Central South University, Hunan, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Ge Lin
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, No. 567 Tongzipo West Road, Yuelu District, Hunan, Changsha, 410008, China
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, Key Laboratory of National Health and Family Planning Commission, Central South University, Hunan, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Fei Gong
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, No. 567 Tongzipo West Road, Yuelu District, Hunan, Changsha, 410008, China.
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, Key Laboratory of National Health and Family Planning Commission, Central South University, Hunan, Changsha, 410008, China.
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17
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Hallak J, Caldini EG, Teixeira TA, Correa MCM, Duarte-Neto AN, Zambrano F, Taubert A, Hermosilla C, Drevet JR, Dolhnikoff M, Sanchez R, Saldiva PHN. Transmission electron microscopy reveals the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in human spermatozoa associated with an ETosis-like response. Andrology 2024. [PMID: 38469742 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13612] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Severe acute syndrome coronavirus 2 can invade a variety of tissues, including the testis. Even though this virus is scarcely found in human semen polymerase chain reaction tests, autopsy studies confirm the viral presence in all testicular cell types, including spermatozoa and spermatids. OBJECTIVE To investigate whether the severe acute syndrome coronavirus 2 is present inside the spermatozoa of negative polymerase chain reaction-infected men up to 3 months after hospital discharge. MATERIALS AND METHODS This cross-sectional study included 13 confirmed moderate-to-severe COVID-19 patients enrolled 30-90 days after the diagnosis. Semen samples were obtained and examined with real-time polymerase chain reaction for RNA detection and by transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS In moderate-to-severe clinical scenarios, we identified the severe acute syndrome coronavirus 2 inside spermatozoa in nine of 13 patients up to 90 days after discharge from the hospital. Moreover, some DNA-based extracellular traps were reported in all studied specimens. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Although severe acute syndrome coronavirus 2 was not present in the infected men's semen, it was intracellularly present in the spermatozoa till 3 months after hospital discharge. The Electron microscopy (EM) findings also suggest that spermatozoa produce nuclear DNA-based extracellular traps, probably in a cell-free DNA-dependent manner, similar to those previously described in the systemic inflammatory response to COVID-19. In moderate-to-severe cases, the blood-testes barrier grants little defence against different pathogenic viruses, including the severe acute syndrome coronavirus 2. The virus could also use the epididymis as a post-testicular route to bind and fuse to the mature spermatozoon and possibly accomplish the reverse transcription of the single-stranded viral RNA into proviral DNA. These mechanisms can elicit extracellular cell-free DNA formation. The potential implications of our findings for assisted conception must be addressed, and the evolutionary history of DNA-based extracellular traps as preserved ammunition in animals' innate defence might improve our understanding of the severe acute syndrome coronavirus 2 pathophysiology in the testis and spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Hallak
- Departamento de Cirurgia, Disciplina de Urologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Androscience, Science & Innovation Center in Andrology and High-Complex Clinical and Research Andrology Laboratory., Androscience Institute, Sao Paulo, Brasil
| | - Elia G Caldini
- Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thiago A Teixeira
- Androscience, Science & Innovation Center in Andrology and High-Complex Clinical and Research Andrology Laboratory., Androscience Institute, Sao Paulo, Brasil
- Departamento de Cirurgia, Divisão de Urologia, Hospital Universitário da Universidade Federal do Amapá, Amapá, Brazil
| | | | - Amaro N Duarte-Neto
- Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fabiola Zambrano
- Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
- Center of Translational Medicine-Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEMT-BIOREN), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Anja Taubert
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Carlos Hermosilla
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Joël R Drevet
- GReD Institute, CNRS-INSERM-Université Clermont Auvergne, Faculty of Medicine, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Marisa Dolhnikoff
- Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Raul Sanchez
- Center of Translational Medicine-Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEMT-BIOREN), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
- Institute of Parasitology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Paulo H N Saldiva
- Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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18
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Ma L, Yao Y, Zhang Z, Huang Y, Zhang L, Qiao P, Kang J, Ren C, Xie W, Liang R, Wu H, Liu Z, Ma Y. SARS-CoV-2 infection negatively impacts on the quality of embryos by delaying early embryonic development. Am J Reprod Immunol 2024; 91:e13831. [PMID: 38444103 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13831] [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: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented health crisis that has affected in vitro fertilization practices globally. Previous studies have shown that SARS-CoV-2 impacts the quality of embryos by inducing an immunological response in infertile patients. In this study, the early embryonic development of SARS-CoV-2-infected infertile patients was investigated. METHODS Sixty-five SARS-CoV-2 infected infertile patients and 258 controls were involved in this study. The major outcome parameters for the cycle were analyzed, including the number of oocytes, maturation oocytes, available embryos per cycle, and embryo morpho kinetic characteristics. RESULTS From SARS-CoV-2 infection until oocyte retrieval, it took an average of 6.63 days. The results revealed that the number of oocytes and high-quality embryos on day 3 dramatically reduced in SARS-CoV-2-infected infertile patients. SARS-CoV-2 was detected in the follicular fluid of three infertile patients. SARS-CoV-2 infection had negatively impacted the number of oocytes in multivariate linear regression models. The early embryonic development in the SARS-CoV-2 infection group had a noticeable delay from the six-cell stage to blastocyst stage. CONCLUSIONS SARS-CoV-2 infection reduced the number of oocytes and high-quality embryos on day 3. It delays the early embryonic development from the six-cell stage to blastocyst stage and has a negative impact on the quality of embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linna Ma
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation (Hainan Medical University), Ministry of Education, Department of Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan Province, China
| | - Yufei Yao
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation (Hainan Medical University), Ministry of Education, Department of Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan Province, China
| | - Zhao Zhang
- Qinzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Qinzhou, Guangxi Province, China
| | - Yanhua Huang
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation (Hainan Medical University), Ministry of Education, Department of Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan Province, China
| | - Liuguang Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Haikou Mary Hospital, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Pengyun Qiao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong Province, China
| | - Jinyu Kang
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation (Hainan Medical University), Ministry of Education, Department of Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan Province, China
| | - Chune Ren
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong Province, China
| | - Wenling Xie
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong Province, China
| | - Rongwei Liang
- Qinzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Qinzhou, Guangxi Province, China
| | - Hongbo Wu
- Qinzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Qinzhou, Guangxi Province, China
| | - Zheng Liu
- College of Medical Laboratory Science, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, China
| | - Yanlin Ma
- Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research, Hainan Provincial Clinical Research Center for Thalassemia, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Diseases Research and Translation (Hainan Medical University), Ministry of Education, Department of Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan Province, China
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19
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Maybin J, Watters M, Rowley B, Walker C, Sharp G, Alvergne A. COVID-19 and abnormal uterine bleeding: potential associations and mechanisms. Clin Sci (Lond) 2024; 138:153-171. [PMID: 38372528 PMCID: PMC10876417 DOI: 10.1042/cs20220280] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
The impact of COVID-19 on menstruation has received a high level of public and media interest. Despite this, uncertainty exists about the advice that women and people who menstruate should receive in relation to the expected impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection, long COVID or COVID-19 vaccination on menstruation. Furthermore, the mechanisms leading to these reported menstrual changes are poorly understood. This review evaluates the published literature on COVID-19 and its impact on menstrual bleeding, discussing the strengths and limitations of these studies. We present evidence consistent with SARS-CoV-2 infection and long COVID having an association with changes in menstrual bleeding parameters and that the impact of COVID vaccination on menstruation appears less significant. An overview of menstrual physiology and known causes of abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is provided before discussing potential mechanisms which may underpin the menstrual disturbance reported with COVID-19, highlighting areas for future scientific study. Finally, consideration is given to the effect that menstruation may have on COVID-19, including the impact of the ovarian sex hormones on acute COVID-19 severity and susceptibility and reported variation in long COVID symptoms across the menstrual cycle. Understanding the current evidence and addressing gaps in our knowledge in this area are essential to inform public health policy, direct the treatment of menstrual disturbance and facilitate development of new therapies, which may reduce the severity of COVID-19 and improve quality of life for those experiencing long COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline A. Maybin
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K
| | - Marianne Watters
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K
| | - Bethan Rowley
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K
| | - Catherine A. Walker
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, U.K
| | | | - Alexandra Alvergne
- ISEM, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, Montpellier, France
- School of Anthropology and Museum Ethnography, Oxford, U.K
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20
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Yang T, Wu L, Peng J, Wang C, Li G, Zhang J, He X, Cao Y, Song B. Effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection during ovarian stimulation on ART outcomes. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 48:103422. [PMID: 38030535 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103422] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection during ovarian stimulation affect assisted reproductive technology outcomes? DESIGN This retrospective cohort study conducted at the Reproductive Medicine Centre of The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University aimed to assess the effects of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection during IVF on treatment outcomes and the reproductive system. The study included 151 treatment cycles involving couples with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) during ovarian stimulation, along with 224 cycles of non-infected couples as a control group. Clinical characteristics and laboratory parameters were analysed, including total gonadotrophin dosage, duration of ovarian stimulation, number of oocytes retrieved, fertilization method, fertilization rate, and number of blastocyst embryos available. Forty-six follicular fluid samples, 38 semen samples and 78 embryo culture medium samples from patients with COVID-19 were tested for SARS-CoV-2 RNA using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction assay. RESULTS The treatment and control groups showed similar cycle characteristics, including fertilization method, total gonadotrophin dosage and duration of ovarian stimulation. The mean number of oocytes retrieved per cycle and rate of mature oocytes in intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles were comparable. No significant difference was observed in the total number of blastocyst embryos available between the groups. Furthermore, no SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in any of the samples of patients with COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, acute SARS-CoV-2 infection during ovarian stimulation does not have a significant impact on IVF treatment outcomes. Additionally, no risk to the reproductive system was observed in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, individuals with asymptomatic or mild COVID-19 can safely continue IVF treatment. Future research is needed to investigate the long-term effects of COVID-19 on fertility and reproductive outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianjin Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Longmei Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Anhui Public Health Clinical Centre, Hefei, China
| | - Jing Peng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Chao Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Guanjian Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Junfei Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaojin He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Hefei, China; Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Centre, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Hefei, China; Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Centre, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
| | - Bing Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Hefei, China; Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Centre, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
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21
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Amodeo A, Persani L, Bonomi M, Cangiano B. Use of testosterone replacement therapy to treat long-COVID-related hypogonadism. Endocrinol Diabetes Metab Case Rep 2024; 2024:23-0097. [PMID: 38520748 PMCID: PMC10959025 DOI: 10.1530/edm-23-0097] [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: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Summary Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can impair pituitary-gonadal axis and a higher prevalence of hypogonadism in post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients compared with the general population has been highlighted. Here we report the first case of a patient affected with a long-COVID syndrome leading to hypogonadism and treated with testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and its effects on clinical and quality of life (QoL) outcomes. We encountered a 62-year-old man who had been diagnosed with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism about 2 months after recovery from COVID-19 underwent a complete physical examination, general and hormonal blood tests, and self-reported questionnaires administration before and after starting TRT. Following the TRT, both serum testosterone level and hypogonadism-related symptoms were improved, but poor effects occurred on general and neuropsychiatric symptoms and QoL. Therefore, hypogonadism does not appear to be the cause of neurocognitive symptoms, but rather a part of the long-COVID syndrome; as a consequence, starting TRT can improve the hypogonadism-related symptoms without clear benefits on general clinical condition and QoL, which are probably related to the long-COVID itself. Longer follow-up might clarify whether post-COVID hypogonadism is a transient condition that can revert as the patient recovers from long-COVID syndrome. Learning points Hypogonadism is more prevalent in post-COVID-19 patients compared with the general population. In these patients, hypogonadism may be part of long-COVID syndrome, and it is still unclear whether it is a transient condition or a permanent impairment of gonadal function. Testosterone replacement therapy has positive effects on hypogonadism-related clinic without clear benefits on general symptomatology and quality of life, which are more likely related to the long-COVID itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Amodeo
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Persani
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Bonomi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Biagio Cangiano
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
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22
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Stark J, Kuster SP, Hungerbühler V. Impact of COVID-19 disease on the male factor in reproductive medicine - how-to advise couples undergoing IVF/ICSI. Reprod Fertil Dev 2024; 36:RD23205. [PMID: 38185121 DOI: 10.1071/rd23205] [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: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT The COVID-19 pandemic has caused widespread concern about its potential impact on various aspects of human health. AIMS This narrative review aims to summarise the current knowledge about the impact of COVID-19 on sperm quality and its effect on assisted reproductive technology. METHODS In this narrative review, a literature search using the PubMed and MEDLINE databases was conducted to identify relevant original research articles published up to 29 January 2023. RESULTS Thirty original studies were included in our review. There is evidence that SARS-CoV-2 is detectable in seminal fluid during the acute phase of infection and for up to 1month. However, the fact that SARS-CoV-2 is barely detectable in semen makes sexual transmission very unlikely. COVID-19 infection has been associated with the following changes in sperm quality: morphology, altered motility, changed DNA fragmentation-index (DFI), decreased sperm concentration, lower total number of sperm, and a significant increase in leukocytes and cytokines. The effects mostly seem to be reversible and have not been shown to negatively affect the outcome of assisted reproductive technology but should lead to further research concerning the health of the offspring, because a correlation of increased DFI after COVID-19 even 5months after disease could be assumed. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this narrative review suggest that SARS-CoV-2 may harm sperm quality in the acute phase. IMPLICATIONS A recovery time of at least 3months regarding assisted reproductive therapy could be reasonable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Stark
- Kantonsspital St. Gallen, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Stefan P Kuster
- Kantonsspital St. Gallen, Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, Rorschacher Str. 95, 9007 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Vera Hungerbühler
- Kantonsspital St. Gallen, Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Fiore Praxis AG, Brauerstrasse 95, 9016 St. Gallen, Switzerland
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23
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Su BQ, Yang GY, Wang J, Ming SL, Chu BB. Pseudorabies virus inhibits progesterone-induced inactivation of TRPML1 to facilitate viral entry. PLoS Pathog 2024; 20:e1011956. [PMID: 38295116 PMCID: PMC10829982 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Viral infection is a significant risk factor for fertility issues. Here, we demonstrated that infection by neurotropic alphaherpesviruses, such as pseudorabies virus (PRV), could impair female fertility by disrupting the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovary axis (HPOA), reducing progesterone (P4) levels, and consequently lowering pregnancy rates. Our study revealed that PRV exploited the transient receptor potential mucolipin 1 (TRPML1) and its lipid activator, phosphatidylinositol 3,5-bisphosphate (PI(3,5)P2), to facilitate viral entry through lysosomal cholesterol and Ca2+. P4 antagonized this process by inducing lysosomal storage disorders and promoting the proteasomal degradation of TRPML1 via murine double minute 2 (MDM2)-mediated polyubiquitination. Overall, the study identifies a novel mechanism by which PRV hijacks the lysosomal pathway to evade P4-mediated antiviral defense and impair female fertility. This mechanism may be common among alphaherpesviruses and could contribute significantly to their impact on female reproductive health, providing new insights for the development of antiviral therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing-Qian Su
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biochemistry and Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Growth and Development of Henan Province, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Guo-Yu Yang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biochemistry and Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Growth and Development of Henan Province, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Jiang Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biochemistry and Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Growth and Development of Henan Province, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Sheng-Li Ming
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biochemistry and Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Growth and Development of Henan Province, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Bei-Bei Chu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biochemistry and Nutrition, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Growth and Development of Henan Province, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
- Longhu Advanced Immunization Laboratory, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
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Mao Y, Yao Y, Du H, Wang Z, Zhou X, Zeng M, Wang C, Liu H, Luo Y, Hong H, Liu J, Li L. Effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on embryological outcomes in assisted reproductive technology during the Omicron epidemic. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:224. [PMID: 37993936 PMCID: PMC10664545 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01301-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The influence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection on assisted reproductive technology (ART) has received increasing attention. It has been reported that the SARS-CoV-2 RiboNucleic Acid (RNA) cannot be detected in follicular fluid and granulosa cells. However, the detection rate of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in immature oocytes and blastocysts has still unknown. Moreover, the effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection on embryological outcomes in ART during the Omicron epidemic is limited. METHODS A prospective study was performed to explore the detection rate of viral RNA in biological specimens from patients who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA and the effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on embryological outcomes. A total of 211 patients underwent transvaginal oocyte retrieval at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University between December 13, 2022 and December 30, 2022. Prior to transvaginal oocyte retrieval, 61 individuals tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA within 24 h. Follicular fluid was preserved during oocyte retrieval. Granular cells were collected after degranulation (Intracytoplasmic sperm injection only). Immature oocytes were collected at the end of the ICSI. Unavailable blastocysts were collected on day 6 (D6). The TIANLONG SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR-Kit was used to detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA in all samples. The COVID-19 and Non COVID-19 groups were contrasted in the following areas: fertilization rate, 2PN rate, Day 3 (D3) available embryos rate, D3 good-quality embryos rate, blastocyst formation rate, good-quality blastocyst formation rate. RESULTS All samples were negative except for an immature oocytes sample that was positive for SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA with a detection rate of 6.67%. Whether in-vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), the rate of fertilization, 2PN, D3 available embryos, D3 good-quality embryos, blastocyst formation, good-quality blastocyst formation was not significantly negative different between the COVID-19 and the Non COVID-19 groups. Our findings were validated by an overview of the embryological outcome from the cycles before SARS- Cov-2 infection from the same patient. CONCLUSIONS Except for immature oocytes, none of the follicular fluid, granulosa cells, or blastocysts samples contained viral RNA. In addition, SARS-CoV-2 infection had no detrimental effects on the embryological outcomes of ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuling Mao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yachao Yao
- Department of Laboratory medicine, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongzi Du
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zheng Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xueliang Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ming Zeng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chunyan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hanyan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yang Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Honghai Hong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Jianqiao Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
- Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Higher Education Joint Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
- Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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Xue Y, Xiong Y, Cheng X, Li K. Impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on clinical outcomes of in vitro fertilization treatments: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1233986. [PMID: 37867530 PMCID: PMC10588479 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1233986] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The influence of SARS-CoV-2 infection on clinical outcomes in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization has been uncertain. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the impact of past SARS-CoV-2 infection on IVF outcomes. A comprehensive search of PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases was conducted from December 2019 to January 2023. Included studies comparing IVF outcomes between patients with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection and controls without previous infection were analyzed. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. Sensitivity analysis, publication bias, and heterogeneity were also examined. The review protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023392007). A total of eight studies, involving 317 patients with past SARS-CoV-2 infection and 904 controls, met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis revealed no significant differences between the infection group and controls in terms of clinical pregnancy rate (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.73-1.29; P = 0.82), implantation rate (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.67-1.46; P = 0.96), or miscarriage rate (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.15-2.65; P = 0.53). Subgroup analyses based on transfer type demonstrated comparable clinical pregnancy rates between the two groups in both fresh embryo transfer (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.69-1.36; P = 0.86) and frozen embryo transfer (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.38-2.44; P = 0.94). In conclusion, this meta-analysis suggests that previous SARS-CoV-2 infection does not have a detrimental impact on clinical outcomes in IVF patients. These findings provide valuable insights into assessing the influence of prior SARS-CoV-2 infection on successful pregnancy outcomes in IVF treatment. The systematic review was performed based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. This review was prospectively registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (ID CRD42023392007) on January 16, 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamei Xue
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuping Xiong
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaohong Cheng
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Kun Li
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal’s & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Paira DA, Beltramone F, Olmedo JJ, Tissera AD, Molina RI, Fux-Otta C, Olivera C, Motrich RD. Persistent oligonecrozoospermia after asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection. A case report and literature review. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20340. [PMID: 37809541 PMCID: PMC10560057 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is known to have deleterious effects on different systems such as the respiratory, cardiovascular, central nervous, and gastrointestinal. However, conflicting data about the possible implications for male reproductive health and fertility have been reported. In addition, the long-term consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection remain unclear. Herein, we report a case of a 42-year-old man with no known co-morbidities and normal baseline semen quality, who subsequently suffered an asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection. Shortly after, the patient developed sudden oligoasthenozoospermia, even reaching azoospermia, which gradually evolved into persistent severe oligonecrozoospermia, accompanied by semen inflammation and oxidative stress. Remarkably, the latter occurred in the absence of urogenital infections, hormonal imbalances, tissue/organ obstruction/damage, medication or drug treatment, smoking, or exposure to toxins/pollutants, radiation, or high temperature. This case constitutes valuable clinical evidence that adds to the current knowledge in the field and highlights the need for further and longer follow-up studies to better understand the putative long-term consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection on male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Andrea Paira
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Fernando Beltramone
- OVUM- Centro de Medicina Reproductive, Fetal y Cirugía Ambulatoria, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - José Javier Olmedo
- Fundación Urológica Córdoba para la Docencia e Investigación Médica (FUCDIM), Córdoba, Argentina
| | | | | | - Carolina Fux-Otta
- Hospital Universitario de Maternidad y Neonatología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Carolina Olivera
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Ruben Dario Motrich
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
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Wei L, Zhang J, Deng X, Luo C, Bo L, Gao S, Qian F, Lu S, Mao C. Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on Chinese assisted reproductive technology institutions and human sperm banks: reflections in the post-pandemic era. JOURNAL OF HEALTH, POPULATION, AND NUTRITION 2023; 42:82. [PMID: 37592335 PMCID: PMC10436387 DOI: 10.1186/s41043-023-00422-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The COVID-19 pandemic has been the most serious public health emergency encountered in modern assisted reproductive technology (ART) development. In order to identify lessons learned, this study reviews the effect of the pandemic on ART institutions and human sperm banks in China, and summarizes the experiences and reflections of Chinese scholars post-pandemic era. METHODS This review is based on multiple consensus statements on the COVID-19 pandemic issued by Chinese experts as well as current national regulations and principles in ART institutions and human sperm banks to document the current situation of ART services in China, describe the impact of the pandemic on these services, and offer Chinese reflections on worrying issues in the post-pandemic era. RESULTS China reached one million ART cycles in 2016, and there are currently 540 ART medical institutions and 27 human sperm banks, with 540 licensed for AIH, 91 for AID, 415 for conventional IVF and ICSI and 85 for PGT. Of these, only 4 institutions carry out 10,000 cycles or more annually, and the proportion of institutions with less than 1,000 cycles has reached 66%, which means that a considerable number of ART institutions are still not saturated. As a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic, 63.6% of ART providers and 95.5% of human sperm banks suspended operations. By the end of May 2020, China, as an early country affected by the pandemic achieved a national resumption rate of ART medical services of 99.2% and that of human sperm banks of 100.0%. Reports from the first and largest human sperm bank in China showed that qualification, semen concentration and sperm viability rates measured at primary screening have significantly decreased post-pandemic. Much like in other countries, Chinese experts developed a consensus on prevention and control measures during the pandemic. In principle, all ART activities should be suspended during acute phases of infection spread. Chinese scholars highlight that attention should be paid to young patients with fertility requirements during and after COVID-19, and emphasize the importance of fertility evaluation and clinical intervention. In addition, couples should be reminded that during ART treatment, disinfectants should not be used excessively to minimize risks of damaging the reproductive system, gametes and zygotes. At the same time, timely and reasonable guidance for tackling negative emotions from stress response is needed to provide reassurance and to avoid irrational fear and excessive stress. Seminal parameters should be re-examined 2 months after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, and ART treatments recommenced if no abnormalities are detected. CONCLUSIONS Given the growing frequency of outbreaks of global infectious diseases in recent years, ART institutions and human sperm banks should pay attention to improving their prevention and control capabilities. To a certain extent, decisions and measures adopted in China during COVID-19 pandemic are worthy of recognition and acceptance. Chinese scholars have discussed, proactively responded to and understand the key issues surrounding ART development during the pandemic with the aim of contributing to the substantial progress and healthy development of ART services in the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lun Wei
- Reproductive Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.899 Pinghai Road, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiakai Zhang
- Centre for Chinese Urbanization Studies & Collaborative Innovation Center for New Urbanization and Social Governance of Universities in Jiangsu, Soochow University, No.50 Donghuan Road, Suzhou, 215021, Jiangsu, China
- Suzhou High School Affiliated to Xi'an Jiaotong University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoling Deng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.899 Pinghai Road, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chao Luo
- Reproductive Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.899 Pinghai Road, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Le Bo
- Reproductive Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.899 Pinghai Road, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shasha Gao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.899 Pinghai Road, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fei Qian
- Reproductive Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.899 Pinghai Road, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shucheng Lu
- Centre for Chinese Urbanization Studies & Collaborative Innovation Center for New Urbanization and Social Governance of Universities in Jiangsu, Soochow University, No.50 Donghuan Road, Suzhou, 215021, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Caiping Mao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.899 Pinghai Road, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China.
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Huang J, Guan T, Tian L, Xia L, Xu D, Wu X, Huang L, Chen M, Fang Z, Xiong C, Nie L, Wang S, Li Z, Zhao Y, Wu Q. Impact of inactivated COVID-19 vaccination on female ovarian reserve: a propensity score-matched retrospective cohort study. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1198051. [PMID: 37638010 PMCID: PMC10451080 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1198051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To explore the impact of inactivated COVID-19 vaccination on ovarian reserve as assessed by serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) concentration. Methods A total of 3160 women were included in this single-center retrospective cohort study between June 2021 and October 2022. Vaccination information were collected from official immunization records available in personal mobile apps. Serum AMH was qualified by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay and compared with previous measurement data within three years. Women were categorized to the vaccinated group if they received two doses of inactivated COVID-19 vaccines (Sinopharm or Sinovac) between AMH tests (n = 488), and to the control group if not vaccinated (n = 2672). Propensity score matching and multivariate linear regression were performed to control for potential confounders. The main outcome measures were the numeric AMH change and percentage AMH change between the two tests. Results There were 474 women left in each group after matching all baseline characteristics. The mean interval from the first to second AMH measurement was 508.0 ± 250.2 and 507.5 ± 253.6 days for vaccinated and unvaccinated women, respectively (P = 0.680). Both groups had a significant AMH decrease in the second test compared with the first test (P = 0.001). However, the second AMH level remained comparable between groups (3.26 ± 2.80 vs. 3.24 ± 2.61 ng/mL, P = 0.757). Similarly, no significant differences were observed in numerical (-0.14 ± 1.32 vs. -0.20 ± 1.56 ng/mL, P = 0.945) and percentage (2.33 ± 58.65 vs. 0.35 ± 48.42%, P = 0.777) AMH changes. The results were consistent in sub-analyses for women aged <35 and ≥35 years. There were also no significant differences when vaccinated women were divided according to the time interval after vaccination: ≤30, 31-60, 61-90, and ≥91 days. Conclusion Our study provides the first evidence that inactivated COVID-19 vaccination has no measurable detrimental effect on ovarian reserve, regardless of female age and vaccination interval. This reassuring finding adds to the safety evidence of COVID-19 vaccine in fertility, and should be useful to promote vaccine acceptance. Multicenter prospective cohort studies are needed to validate our conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialyu Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Tianshu Guan
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Queen Mary, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Lifeng Tian
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Leizhen Xia
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Dingfei Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Xingwu Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Lingling Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Mengyi Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Zheng Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Chaoyi Xiong
- Department of Pathology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Liju Nie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Shuang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Zengming Li
- Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health of Jiangxi Province, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Qiongfang Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jiangxi Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
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Azzahra F, Pangestu M, Lestari SW, Pratama G. Impacts of COVID-19 Pandemic on Three IVF Clinics of Jakarta, Indonesia: A Retrospective Qualitative and Quantitative Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2023; 17:254-258. [PMID: 37577908 PMCID: PMC10439993 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2023.562118.1381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Corona virus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic also led to a reduction or even the suspension of elective health services. These decisions affected in vitro fertilization (IVF) programs worldwide. Therefore, it is essential to map the readiness of IVF clinics in providing safety in this situation and in the future. MATERIALS AND METHODS This is a retrospective qualitative and quantitative research done in 2021 that involved three IVF clinics of Jakarta, Indonesia. Those three clinics were government-owned, private-owned, and educational and training center. The qualitative data of each clinic's readiness towards COVID-19 was obtained from interviews with the clinics staff. The quantitative data were collected from the clinics patients' number and demographic data from 2019-2021 as well as from COVID-19 databases. Both data sets were analysed descriptively and only for the quantitative analysis Stata version 16 was used. RESULTS There were changes in the domiciles and number of patients attending the three clinics. The ratio of patients from Jakarta increased while patients from outside Java Island decreased. There was a drop in annual patient numbers in 2020. However, from June 2020 to December 2021, the number of monthly IVF cycles increased significantly by 3.5 cycles per month (P=0.001). There was no association between IVF patients' attendance numbers and COVID-19 cases (P=0.785). One of the clinics had a negative pressure operating theatre, which made them more confident in treating patients with COVID-19 positive and made them even had higher IVF cycles started than the pre-pandemic period. CONCLUSION Those three clinics are prepared in facing COVID-19, as they complied with government regulations. As the COVID-19 pandemic progressed, the number of patients gradually returned to normal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fira Azzahra
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Australia
| | - Mulyoto Pangestu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Australia
| | | | - Gita Pratama
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
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Sunada N, Otsuka Y, Honda H, Tokumasu K, Otsuka F. Phase-dependent trends of male hypogonadism in long COVID patients. Endocr J 2023; 70:755-756. [PMID: 37394474 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.ej23-0266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Naruhiko Sunada
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Yuki Otsuka
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Honda
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Kazuki Tokumasu
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
| | - Fumio Otsuka
- Department of General Medicine, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
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Sen S, Khosla S, Awan O, Cohen S, Gollie JM. Endothelial dysfunction in autoimmune, pulmonary, and kidney systems, and exercise tolerance following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1197061. [PMID: 37575987 PMCID: PMC10413142 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1197061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Long COVID is characterized by persistent symptoms beyond 3-months of severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection that last for at least 2 months and cannot be explained by an alternative diagnosis. Autonomic, immunologic, endothelial, and hypercoagulation are implicated as possible mechanisms of long COVID symptoms. Despite recognition of the public health challenges posed by long COVID, the current understanding of the pathophysiological underpinnings is still evolving. In this narrative review, we explore the long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on T cell activation such as autoimmune disorders and endothelial cell dysfunction involving vascular impairments within pulmonary and renal architecture. We have described how endothelial dysfunction and vascular abnormalities may underscore findings of exercise intolerance by way of impaired peripheral oxygen extraction in individuals with long COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabyasachi Sen
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Shikha Khosla
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Omar Awan
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Disorders Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Scott Cohen
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Jared M. Gollie
- Research and Development Service, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States
- Department of Health, Human Function, and Rehabilitation Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
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Martinez MS, Ferreyra FN, Paira DA, Rivero VE, Olmedo JJ, Tissera AD, Molina RI, Motrich RD. COVID-19 associates with semen inflammation and sperm quality impairment that reverses in the short term after disease recovery. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1220048. [PMID: 37497433 PMCID: PMC10366368 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1220048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: COVID-19 exerts deleterious effects on the respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and central nervous systems, causing more severe disease in men than in women. However, cumulative reported data about the putative consequences on the male reproductive tract and fertility are controversial. Furthermore, the long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection are still uncertain. Methods: In this study, we prospectively evaluated levels of inflammatory cytokines and leukocytes in semen and sperm quality parameters in a cohort of 231 reproductive-aged male patients, unvaccinated, who had recovered from mild or severe COVID-19 and in 62 healthy control individuals. Sperm quality was assessed early (less than 3 months) and long (more than 3 and up to 6 months) after having COVID-19. Interestingly, and unlike most reported studies, available extensive background and baseline data on patients' sperm quality allowed performing a more accurate analysis of COVID-19 effects on sperm quality. Results: Significantly higher levels of IL-1β, TNF and IFNγ were detected in semen from patients recently recovered from mild and/or severe COVID-19 with respect to control individuals indicating semen inflammation. Moreover, patients recovered from mild and/or severe COVID-19 showed significantly reduced semen volume, lower total sperm counts, and impaired sperm motility and viability. Interestingly, all observed alterations returned to baseline values after 3 or more months after disease recovery. Discussion: These results indicate that COVID-19 associates with semen inflammation and impaired semen quality early after disease. However, long COVID-19 seems not to include long-term detrimental consequences on male fertility potential since the observed alterations were reversible after 1-2 spermatogenesis cycles. These data constitute compelling evidence allowing a better understanding of COVID-19 associated sequelae, fundamental for semen collection in assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Sol Martinez
- CIBICI-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | | | - Daniela Andrea Paira
- CIBICI-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Virginia Elena Rivero
- CIBICI-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - José Javier Olmedo
- Fundación Urológica Córdoba para la Docencia e Investigación Médica (FUCDIM), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Andrea Daniela Tissera
- Fundación Urológica Córdoba para la Docencia e Investigación Médica (FUCDIM), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Rosa Isabel Molina
- Fundación Urológica Córdoba para la Docencia e Investigación Médica (FUCDIM), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Rubén Darío Motrich
- CIBICI-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
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Tian F, Li S, Li N, Zhao H, Luo M, Zhang J, Mao Z, Zhang Q, Li R, Tang T, Zhang C, Li Y, Zhang S, Zhao J. Association of SARS-CoV-2 Infection During Controlled Ovarian Stimulation With Oocyte- and Embryo-Related Outcomes. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2323219. [PMID: 37440229 PMCID: PMC10346123 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.23219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance SARS-CoV-2 infection has had significant effects on the health of people worldwide. Whether SARS-CoV-2 infection during controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) is associated with laboratory outcomes in assisted reproductive technology remains unclear. Objective To investigate the association between SARS-CoV-2 infection during COS with oocyte- and embryo-related outcomes. Design, Setting, and Participants A multicenter cohort study was conducted of couples undergoing assisted reproductive technology treatments in 7 reproductive centers in 4 provinces in China from October 1, 2022, to December 31, 2022. All couples received nucleic acid testing for SARS-CoV-2 during COS. The SARS-CoV-2-positive group included couples in which either partner was infected with SARS-CoV-2. The SARS-CoV-2-negative group comprised couples without infection. Exposure In the SARS-CoV-2-positive group, either partner was infected with SARS-CoV-2 during COS, defined as a positive test result for the SARS-CoV-2 antigen. Main Outcomes and Measures Primary outcomes were the available embryo and blastocyst and top-quality embryo and blastocyst rates. Secondary outcomes were the number of oocytes retrieved, the mature oocyte rate, normal fertilization (2 pronuclei observed on day 1 after insemination [2PN]), oocyte degeneration, 2PN cleavage, and blastocyst formation rates. Results A total of 585 heterosexual couples with infertility participated in the study (median [IQR] age for female partners, 33 [30-37] years), with 135 couples in the SARS-CoV-2-positive group and 450 in the SARS-CoV-2-negative group. The characteristics of the groups were similar. The SARS-CoV-2-positive group had a significantly lower top-quality embryo rate (odds ratio [OR], 0.83; 95% CI, 0.71-0.96), top-quality blastocyst rate (OR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.45-0.77), available blastocyst rate (OR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.59-0.82), and blastocyst formation rate (OR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.52-0.71) than the SARS-CoV-2-negative group. Analysis of the associations of infection by sex showed that the female positive group had impaired oocyte and embryo quality regarding mature oocyte rate, 2PN cleavage rate, top-quality embryo rate, blastocyst formation rate, available blastocyst rate, and top-quality blastocyst rate compared with the SARS-CoV-2-negative group. Compared with the SARS-CoV-2-negative group, the male positive group and the group of couples with both positive partners had significantly decreased available blastocyst rate, top-quality blastocyst rate, and blastocyst formation rate compared with the SARS-CoV-2 negative group. Conclusions and Relevance In this cohort study, SARS-CoV-2 infection during COS was negatively associated with embryo and blastocyst quality. Reproductive physicians should be more attentive to patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection during COS and should give couples who have been infected adequate counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fen Tian
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Women’s Reproductive Health in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Saijiao Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ning Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Hao Zhao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Women’s Reproductive Health in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Man Luo
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Zenghui Mao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Changsha Hospital for Maternal & Child Health Care, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qianjie Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Rong Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Tingting Tang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Cuilian Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yanping Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Women’s Reproductive Health in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Shaodi Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People’s Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Women’s Reproductive Health in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China
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Dolgushina NV, Menzhinskaya IV, Ermakova DM, Frankevich NA, Vtorushina VV, Sukhikh GT. The Effect of COVID-19 Severity, Associated Serum Autoantibodies and Time Interval after the Disease on the Outcomes of Fresh Oocyte ART Cycles in Non-Vaccinated Patients. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4370. [PMID: 37445405 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12134370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
It is assumed that SARS-CoV-2- and COVID-19-associated autoimmune processes may affect the outcomes of assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles. This observational prospective study included 240 infertile patients: 105 patients had no history of COVID-19 (group 1) and 135 patients had experienced COVID-19 (group 2) in a mild (n = 85) or moderate (n = 50) form less than 12 months prior to oocyte retrieval. Using ELISAs, the profiles of their serum autoantibodies were determined, including antiphospholipid antibodies and antibodies to nuclear and thyroid antigens. The parameters of oogenesis and embryogenesis, as well as the pregnancy and childbirth rates, did not differ between groups 1 and 2, and also between the subgroups with different severities of COVID-19. However, when oocyte retrieval was performed less than 180 days after COVID-19, a higher proportion of poor-quality blastocysts was obtained (p = 0.006). A high risk of early miscarriage was found in the patients with moderate COVID-19. In group 2, IgG antibodies to annexin V, phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), and TSHr were detected more often than in group 1 (p = 0.035; p = 0.028; and p = 0.033, respectively), and a weak inverse correlation was revealed between anti-PE IgG and the number of oocytes and zygotes obtained. The results of the study suggest a possible adverse effect of COVID-19 and its associated autoantibodies on the outcomes of fresh oocyte ART cycles and early pregnancy, which depends on the severity of COVID-19 and the time interval after the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataliya V Dolgushina
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named after Academician V.I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, 117997 Moscow, Russia
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Perinatology and Reproductology, Institute of Professional Education, Federal State Autonomous Educational Institution of Higher Education the First Moscow State Medical University Named after I.M. Sechenov of Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), 119048 Moscow, Russia
| | - Irina V Menzhinskaya
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named after Academician V.I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Daria M Ermakova
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named after Academician V.I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Natalia A Frankevich
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named after Academician V.I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Valentina V Vtorushina
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named after Academician V.I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Gennady T Sukhikh
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Named after Academician V.I. Kulakov of Ministry of Healthcare of the Russian Federation, 117997 Moscow, Russia
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Perinatology and Reproductology, Institute of Professional Education, Federal State Autonomous Educational Institution of Higher Education the First Moscow State Medical University Named after I.M. Sechenov of Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), 119048 Moscow, Russia
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Pourmasumi S, Kounis NG, Naderi M, Hosseinisadat R, Khoradmehr A, Fagheirelahee N, Kouni SN, de Gregorio C, Dousdampanis P, Mplani V, Michalaki MA, Plotas P, Assimakopoulos S, Gogos C, Aidonidis G, Roditis P, Matsas N, Velissaris D, Calogiuri G, Hung MY, Koniari I. Effects of COVID-19 Infection and Vaccination on the Female Reproductive System: A Narrative Review. Balkan Med J 2023; 40:153-164. [PMID: 37114907 PMCID: PMC10175880 DOI: 10.4274/balkanmedj.galenos.2023.2023-3-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Several studies and research papers have been published to elucidate and understand the mechanism of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and its long-term effects on the human body. COVID-19 affects a number of organs, including the female reproductive system. However, less attention has been given to the effects of COVID-19 on the female reproductive system due to their low morbidity. The results of studies investigating the relationship between COVID-19 infection and ovarian function in women of reproductive age have shown the harmless involvement of COVID-19 infection. Several studies have reported the involvement of COVID-19 infection in oocyte quality, ovarian function, and dysfunctions in the uterine endometrium and the menstrual cycle. The findings of these studies indicate that COVID-19 infection negatively affects the follicular microenvironment and dysregulate ovarian function. Although the COVID-19 pandemic and female reproductive health have been studied in humans and animals, very few studies have examined how COVID-19 affects the female reproductive system. The objective of this review is to summarize the current literature and categorize the effects of COVID-19 on the female reproductive system, including the ovaries, uterus, and hormonal profiles. The effects on oocyte maturation, oxidative stress, which causes chromosomal instability and apoptosis in ovaries, in vitro fertilization cycle, high-quality embryos, premature ovarian insufficiency, ovarian vein thrombosis, hypercoagulable state, women’s menstrual cycle, the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovary axis, and sex hormones, including estrogen, progesterone, and the anti-Müllerian hormone, are discussed in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soheila Pourmasumi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
- Clinical Research Development Unit, Ali-Ibn Abi-Talib Hospital, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Nicholas G. Kounis
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | - Monavar Naderi
- Knowledge and Information Science, Vice Chancellor for Science and Technology, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Robabe Hosseinisadat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Arezoo Khoradmehr
- The Persian Gulf Marine Biotechnology Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Niloofar Fagheirelahee
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | | | - Cesare de Gregorio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina Medical School, Messina, Italy
| | | | - Virginia Mplani
- Intensive Care Unit, Patras University Hospital, Patras, Greece
| | - Marina A. Michalaki
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Fculty of Health Sciences, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | | | - Stelios Assimakopoulos
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Patras Medical School, Patras, Greece
| | - Christos Gogos
- COVID-19 Unit, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Pavlos Roditis
- Department of Cardiology, Mamatsio Kozanis General Hospital, Kozani, Greece
| | | | | | - Gianfranco Calogiuri
- Pneumonology Department, Civil Hospital “Ninetto Melli”, Pietro Vernoti, Brindisi, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Section of Allergology and Clinical Immunology, University of Bari Medical School, Bari, Italy
| | - Ming-Yow Hung
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Taipei Heart Institute, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ioanna Koniari
- Departmentof Cardiology, Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, Liverpool, UK
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Vernon V, Patel J, Cieri-Hutcherson NE, Arellano R, Elmore H, Griffin BL, Mitzel K, Moyeno WM, O'Connell MB, Pelaccio K, Lodise NM. The impact of COVID-19 on select considerations in patients of reproductive age: Brief talking points for pharmacists. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2023; 63:720-724. [PMID: 36775738 PMCID: PMC9831663 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2023.01.003] [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: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has elicited many health concerns, including the impact of the infection and vaccine on reproductive health. Although robust evidence demonstrates the safety of all available COVID-19 vaccines, misinformation and disinformation related to the vaccine continue to circulate. As accessible and essential health care workers, it is crucial that pharmacists are informed of the evidence related to effects of the COVID-19 infection and vaccinations on reproductive health care. Menstrual cycle changes have been noted owing to COVID-19 infection, pandemic stress, and COVID-19 vaccination. COVID-19 infection and vaccination have not been shown to influence female fertility, pregnancy rates, and lactation. The use of exogenous estrogen may further contribute to an increased risk of thromboembolism with COVID-19 infection, and differences in the risk of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis appear to exist between the types of vaccines. The benefits of COVID-19 vaccination outweigh any risks. Shared decision-making is necessary when discussing vaccination with patients. Pharmacists play a vital role in dispelling misinformation and disinformation related to the impact of COVID-19 illness and vaccination on reproductive health care.
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Chen X, Shi H, Li C, Zhong W, Cui L, Zhang W, Geng L, Hu K, Fang M, Wei D, Yan J, Sun Y, Wu K, Zhao H, Chen ZJ. The effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection on human embryo early development: a multicenter prospective cohort study. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2023:10.1007/s11427-023-2291-0. [PMID: 36795183 PMCID: PMC9933004 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-023-2291-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolei Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China ,Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250012 China ,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China ,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012 China ,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012 China ,National Research Center of Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China
| | - Huangcong Shi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China ,Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250012 China ,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China ,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012 China ,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012 China ,National Research Center of Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China
| | - Cheng Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China ,Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250012 China ,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China ,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012 China ,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012 China ,National Research Center of Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China
| | - Wanxia Zhong
- Center for reproductive medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127 China ,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, 200127 China
| | - Linlin Cui
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China ,Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250012 China ,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China ,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012 China ,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012 China ,National Research Center of Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China ,Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China
| | - Wenjun Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China ,Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250012 China ,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China ,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012 China ,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012 China ,National Research Center of Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China
| | - Ling Geng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China
| | - Kuona Hu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China
| | - Mei Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China
| | - Daimin Wei
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China ,Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250012 China ,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China ,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012 China ,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012 China ,National Research Center of Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China
| | - Junhao Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China ,Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250012 China ,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China ,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012 China ,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012 China ,National Research Center of Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012 China
| | - Yun Sun
- Center for reproductive medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, 200127, China.
| | - Keliang Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China. .,Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250012, China. .,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China. .,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, China. .,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, China. .,National Research Center of Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
| | - Han Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China. .,Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250012, China. .,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China. .,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, China. .,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, China. .,National Research Center of Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China. .,Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, 250012, China. .,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China. .,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, China. .,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, China. .,National Research Center of Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China. .,Center for reproductive medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, 200127, China.
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Takeshima T, Ando S, Iwahata T, Umemoto Y, Kato M, Kobayashi H, Komiya A, Shiraishi K, Taniguchi H, Chiba K, Tsujimura A, Fukuhara S, Yumura Y. [INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR INFERTILITY TREATMENT SINCE APRIL 2022: HOW MALE INFERTILITY TREATMENT HAS CHANGED IN INSURANCE MEDICAL INSTITUTION -FROM THE QUESTIONNAIRE FOR JAPAN SOCIETY FOR REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE MALE INFERTILITY SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP (SIG)]. Nihon Hinyokika Gakkai Zasshi 2023; 114:75-80. [PMID: 39034118 DOI: 10.5980/jpnjurol.114.75] [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: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
(Introduction) Beginning in April of 2022, infertility services-including assisted reproductive technologies and examinations and treatments for male infertility-were covered by health insurance in Japan. Although these changes are expected to bolster birth rates in Japan, increased numbers of patients and surgeries are anticipated, particularly following reductions in patient visits caused by COVID-19. (Materials and methods) We surveyed 13 members of the Male Infertility Special Interest Group of the Japanese Society for Reproductive Medicine using Microsoft Forms. Respondents were asked about the number of new male infertility patients and surgeries at their respective facilities before the COVID-19 pandemic, after the first wave, after the sixth wave, and after the insurance changes to cover treatments for male infertility. Respondents were also asked to describe challenges in meeting the demand created by these insurance coverage changes. (Results) Patients and surgeries (varicocelectomy and testicular sperm extraction) declined markedly after the first wave of COVID-19 but gradually recovered after the sixth wave. However, once male infertility-related services were covered by insurance in Japan, respondents observed a marked increase in new patients and surgeries compared to pre-COVID-19. The most frequently reported problem was that sperm cryopreservation was not covered by insurance. (Conclusions) This survey should be readministered after additional time has passed to capture longer-term changes following changes to insurance coverage in Japan. We anticipate the responses to the survey will reflect ongoing challenges associated with changes in insurance coverage for male infertility-related services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teppei Takeshima
- Japan Society for Reproductive Medicine Male Infertility Special Interest Group (SIG)
- Department of Urology, Reproduction Center, Yokohama City University Medical Center
| | - Satoshi Ando
- Japan Society for Reproductive Medicine Male Infertility Special Interest Group (SIG)
- Department of Urology, Jichi Medical University
| | - Toshiyuki Iwahata
- Japan Society for Reproductive Medicine Male Infertility Special Interest Group (SIG)
- International Center for Reproductive Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University Saitama Medical Center
| | - Yukihiro Umemoto
- Japan Society for Reproductive Medicine Male Infertility Special Interest Group (SIG)
- Department of Urology, Nagoya City University West Medical Center
| | - Mayuko Kato
- Japan Society for Reproductive Medicine Male Infertility Special Interest Group (SIG)
- Department of Urology, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Hideyuki Kobayashi
- Japan Society for Reproductive Medicine Male Infertility Special Interest Group (SIG)
- Department of Urology, Toho University School of Medicine
| | - Akira Komiya
- Japan Society for Reproductive Medicine Male Infertility Special Interest Group (SIG)
- Department of Urology, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine
- Department of Urology, Kameda Medical Center
| | - Koji Shiraishi
- Japan Society for Reproductive Medicine Male Infertility Special Interest Group (SIG)
- Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Yamaguchi University
| | - Hisanori Taniguchi
- Japan Society for Reproductive Medicine Male Infertility Special Interest Group (SIG)
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Kansai Medical University
| | - Koji Chiba
- Japan Society for Reproductive Medicine Male Infertility Special Interest Group (SIG)
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery Related, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Akira Tsujimura
- Japan Society for Reproductive Medicine Male Infertility Special Interest Group (SIG)
- Department of Urology, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital
| | - Shinichiro Fukuhara
- Japan Society for Reproductive Medicine Male Infertility Special Interest Group (SIG)
- Department of Urology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Yasushi Yumura
- Japan Society for Reproductive Medicine Male Infertility Special Interest Group (SIG)
- Department of Urology, Reproduction Center, Yokohama City University Medical Center
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Al-Alami ZM, Albeitawi S, ALNatsheh MS, Albakri K, Qublan H, Muhaidat N, Abuhalaweh MA, AlRawashdeh MM, Alqam H. COVID-19 and Semen Fluid Parameters, a Retrospective Study from Infertility Clinics. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12122076. [PMID: 36556441 PMCID: PMC9781580 DOI: 10.3390/life12122076] [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: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The study of the effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection and/or vaccination on semen fluid analysis (SFA) parameters is still incomplete. The aim of this study is to assess the effect of COVID-19 infection and vaccination on sperm parameters for a sample of individuals visiting multi-infertility clinics in Jordan. SFA records were collected retrospectively between September and November 2021 and analyzed using Jamovi software (version 2.2.5 for Windows); p-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Sperm concentration, progressive motility, normal morphology, and semen liquefaction time, volume, and viscosity were compared among two data categories. In the first category of data, SFA records from 354 participants were separated into four groups: only vaccinated, infected and vaccinated, neither infected nor vaccinated, and only infected. In the other category, SFA from 49 subjects before their infection and/or vaccination and after were classified into the same mentioned groups and analyzed. There were no statistically significant differences between the studied parameters in the SFA records in the first data category and the second. Nevertheless, the sperm concentration was higher among vaccinated subjects compared to unvaccinated ones (p = 0.04). It is concluded that SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccines have no negative effects on SFA parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zina M. Al-Alami
- Medical Laboratory Sciences Department, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman 19328, Jordan
- Correspondence:
| | - Soha Albeitawi
- Clinical Science Department, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 21163, Jordan
| | - Maha S. ALNatsheh
- IVF Department, Al-Kindi Hospital, P.O. Box 851575, Amman 11185, Jordan
| | - Khaled Albakri
- Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, Zarqa 13133, Jordan
| | - Hussein Qublan
- Irbid Specialty Hospital IVF Center, Irbid Specialty Hospital, Irbid 21110, Jordan
| | - Nadia Muhaidat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Mariam Ahmad Abuhalaweh
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Al-Kindi Hospital, P.O. Box 851575, Amman 11185, Jordan
| | | | - Hiba Alqam
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Islamic Hospital, Al-Abdali, King Hussein street, Amman 11942, Jordan
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