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Sparić R, Stojković M, Plešinac J, Pecorella G, Malvasi A, Tinelli A. Advanced maternal age (AMA) and pregnancy: a feasible but problematic event. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2024:10.1007/s00404-024-07678-w. [PMID: 39120753 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-024-07678-w] [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: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
This narrative review aimed to summarize all adverse outcomes of pregnancy in advanced maternal age (AMA) to assess the age of the mother as a potentially crucial risk factor. AMA refers to women older than 35 years. While expectations and the role of women in society have undergone significant changes today, the biology of aging remains unchanged. Various pathologic changes occur in the human body with age, including chronic noncommunicable diseases, as well as notable changes in reproductive organs, that significantly affect fertility. Despite substantial advancements in technology and medicine, pregnancy in AMA remains a formidable challenge. Although there are some advantages to postponing childbirth, they primarily relate to maternal maturity and economic stability. However, regrettably, there are also many adverse aspects of pregnancy at advanced ages. These include complications affecting both the mother and the fetus. Pregnants in AMA were more prone to suffer from gestational diabetes mellitus, preeclampsia, and eclampsia during pregnancy compared to younger women. In addition, miscarriages and ectopic pregnancies were more prevalent. Delivery was more frequently completed via cesarean section, and postpartum complications and maternal mortality were also higher. Unfortunately, there were also complications concerning the fetus, such as chromosomal abnormalities, premature birth, low birth weight, admission to the neonatal intensive care unit, and stillbirth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radmila Sparić
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 8, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
- Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Clinical Centre of Serbia, Dr Koste Todorovića 26, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marta Stojković
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Dr Subotića 8, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jovana Plešinac
- Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Clinical Centre of Serbia, Dr Koste Todorovića 26, 11000, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Giovanni Pecorella
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Reproduction Medicine, Saarland University, 66424, Homburg, Germany
| | - Antonio Malvasi
- Division of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari 'Aldo Moro', Bari, Italy
| | - Andrea Tinelli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and CERICSAL (CEntro di RIcerca Clinico SALentino), "Veris Delli Ponti Hospital", Via Giuseppina Delli Ponti, 73020, Scorrano, LE, Italy.
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2
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Yeung E, Biedrzycki RJ, Gómez Herrera LC, Issarapu P, Dou J, Marques IF, Mansuri SR, Page CM, Harbs J, Khodasevich D, Poisel E, Niu Z, Allard C, Casey E, Berstein FM, Mancano G, Elliott HR, Richmond R, He Y, Ronkainen J, Sebert S, Bell EM, Sharp G, Mumford SL, Schisterman EF, Chandak GR, Fall CHD, Sahariah SA, Silver MJ, Prentice AM, Bouchard L, Domellof M, West C, Holland N, Cardenas A, Eskenazi B, Zillich L, Witt SH, Send T, Breton C, Bakulski KM, Fallin MD, Schmidt RJ, Stein DJ, Zar HJ, Jaddoe VWV, Wright J, Grazuleviciene R, Gutzkow KB, Sunyer J, Huels A, Vrijheid M, Harlid S, London S, Hivert M, Felix J, Bustamante M, Guan W. Maternal age is related to offspring DNA methylation: A meta-analysis of results from the PACE consortium. Aging Cell 2024; 23:e14194. [PMID: 38808605 PMCID: PMC11320347 DOI: 10.1111/acel.14194] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Worldwide trends to delay childbearing have increased parental ages at birth. Older parental age may harm offspring health, but mechanisms remain unclear. Alterations in offspring DNA methylation (DNAm) patterns could play a role as aging has been associated with methylation changes in gametes of older individuals. We meta-analyzed epigenome-wide associations of parental age with offspring blood DNAm of over 9500 newborns and 2000 children (5-10 years old) from the Pregnancy and Childhood Epigenetics consortium. In newborns, we identified 33 CpG sites in 13 loci with DNAm associated with maternal age (PFDR < 0.05). Eight of these CpGs were located near/in the MTNR1B gene, coding for a melatonin receptor. Regional analysis identified them together as a differentially methylated region consisting of 9 CpGs in/near MTNR1B, at which higher DNAm was associated with greater maternal age (PFDR = 6.92 × 10-8) in newborns. In childhood blood samples, these differences in blood DNAm of MTNR1B CpGs were nominally significant (p < 0.05) and retained the same positive direction, suggesting persistence of associations. Maternal age was also positively associated with higher DNA methylation at three CpGs in RTEL1-TNFRSF6B at birth (PFDR < 0.05) and nominally in childhood (p < 0.0001). Of the remaining 10 CpGs also persistent in childhood, methylation at cg26709300 in YPEL3/BOLA2B in external data was associated with expression of ITGAL, an immune regulator. While further study is needed to establish causality, particularly due to the small effect sizes observed, our results potentially support offspring DNAm as a mechanism underlying associations of maternal age with child health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edwina Yeung
- Epidemiology Branch, Division of Population Health Research, Division of Intramural ResearchEunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human DevelopmentBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Richard J. Biedrzycki
- Division of Intramural ResearchGlotech Inc., Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of HealthBethesdaMarylandUSA
| | - Laura C. Gómez Herrera
- ISGlobal, Institute for Global HealthBarcelonaSpain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF)BarcelonaSpain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP)MadridSpain
| | - Prachand Issarapu
- MRC Unit the Gambia at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)BanjulThe Gambia
| | - John Dou
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public HealthUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - Irene Fontes Marques
- Generation R Study Group, Erasmus MCUniversity Medical Center RotterdamRotterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MCUniversity Medical Center RotterdamRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Sohail Rafik Mansuri
- Genomic Research on Complex Diseases (GRC‐Group)CSIR‐Centre for Cellular and Molecular BiologyHyderabadTelanganaIndia
| | | | - Justin Harbs
- Department of Diagnostics and Intervention, OncologyUmeå UniversityUmeåSweden
| | - Dennis Khodasevich
- Environmental Health Sciences, Berkeley Public HealthCERCH, University of CaliforniaBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Eric Poisel
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology in PsychiatryCentral Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of HeidelbergMannheimGermany
| | - Zhongzheng Niu
- Department of Population and Public Health Science, Keck School of MedicineUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Catherine Allard
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke (CHUS)SherbrookeQuebecCanada
| | - Emma Casey
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public HealthEmory UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Fernanda Morales Berstein
- Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology UnitUniversity of BristolBristolUK
- Bristol Medical School Population Health SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUK
| | - Giulia Mancano
- Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology UnitUniversity of BristolBristolUK
- Bristol Medical School Population Health SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUK
| | - Hannah R. Elliott
- Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology UnitUniversity of BristolBristolUK
- Bristol Medical School Population Health SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUK
| | - Rebecca Richmond
- Medical Research Council Integrative Epidemiology UnitUniversity of BristolBristolUK
- Bristol Medical School Population Health SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUK
| | - Yiyan He
- Research Unit of Population HealthUniversity of OuluOuluFinland
| | | | - Sylvain Sebert
- Research Unit of Population HealthUniversity of OuluOuluFinland
| | - Erin M. Bell
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences and Epidemiology and BiostatisticsUniversity at Albany School of Public HealthAlbanyNew YorkUSA
| | - Gemma Sharp
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of ExeterExeterUK
| | - Sunni L. Mumford
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Enrique F. Schisterman
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Perelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Giriraj R. Chandak
- Genomic Research on Complex Diseases (GRC‐Group)CSIR‐Centre for Cellular and Molecular BiologyHyderabadTelanganaIndia
| | | | | | - Matt J. Silver
- MRC Unit the Gambia at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)BanjulThe Gambia
| | - Andrew M. Prentice
- MRC Unit the Gambia at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM)BanjulThe Gambia
| | - Luigi Bouchard
- Department of Biochemistry and Functional GenomicsCentre intégré Universitaire de santé et de Services Sociaux (CIUSSS) du Saguenay‐Lac‐St‐Jean, Université de SherbrookeSherbrookeQuebecCanada
- Department of Laboratory MedicineCIUSSS du Saguenay‐Lac‐Saint‐Jean – Hôpital de ChicoutimiChicoutimiQuebecCanada
| | - Magnus Domellof
- Department of Clinical Sciences, PediatricsUmeå UniversityUmeåSweden
| | - Christina West
- Department of Clinical Sciences, PediatricsUmeå UniversityUmeåSweden
| | - Nina Holland
- Environmental Health Sciences, Berkeley Public HealthCERCH, University of CaliforniaBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Andres Cardenas
- Department of Epidemiology and Population HealthStanford UniversityStanfordCaliforniaUSA
| | - Brenda Eskenazi
- Environmental Health Sciences, Berkeley Public HealthCERCH, University of CaliforniaBerkeleyCaliforniaUSA
| | - Lea Zillich
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology in PsychiatryCentral Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of HeidelbergMannheimGermany
| | - Stephanie H. Witt
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology in PsychiatryCentral Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of HeidelbergMannheimGermany
| | - Tabea Send
- Department of Psychiatry and PsychotherapyCentral Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of HeidelbergMannheimGermany
| | - Carrie Breton
- Department of Population and Public Health Science, Keck School of MedicineUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Kelly M. Bakulski
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public HealthUniversity of MichiganAnn ArborMichiganUSA
| | - M. Daniele Fallin
- Dean's Office, Rollins School of Public HealthEmory UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Rebecca J. Schmidt
- Department of Public Health Sciences and the M.I.N.D. Institute, School of MedicineUniversity of CaliforniaDavisCaliforniaUSA
| | - Dan J. Stein
- Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental HealthUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) Unit on Risk and Resilience in Mental DisordersUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Heather J. Zar
- South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) Unit on Risk and Resilience in Mental DisordersUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Red Cross War Memorial Children's HospitalUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Vincent W. V. Jaddoe
- Generation R Study Group, Erasmus MCUniversity Medical Center RotterdamRotterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MCUniversity Medical Center RotterdamRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - John Wright
- Bradford Institute for Health Research, Temple Bank House, Bradford Royal InfirmaryBradfordUK
| | | | | | - Jordi Sunyer
- ISGlobal, Institute for Global HealthBarcelonaSpain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF)BarcelonaSpain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP)MadridSpain
- IMIM‐Parc Salut MarBarcelonaSpain
| | - Anke Huels
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public HealthEmory UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public HealthEmory UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Martine Vrijheid
- ISGlobal, Institute for Global HealthBarcelonaSpain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF)BarcelonaSpain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP)MadridSpain
| | - Sophia Harlid
- Department of Diagnostics and Intervention, OncologyUmeå UniversityUmeåSweden
| | - Stephanie London
- Epidemiology BranchNational Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle ParkDurhamNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Marie‐France Hivert
- Division of Chronic Disease Research across the Lifecourse (CoRAL); Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical SchoolHarvard Pilgrim Health Care InstituteBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Diabetes Unit, Massachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Janine Felix
- Generation R Study Group, Erasmus MCUniversity Medical Center RotterdamRotterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Erasmus MCUniversity Medical Center RotterdamRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Mariona Bustamante
- ISGlobal, Institute for Global HealthBarcelonaSpain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF)BarcelonaSpain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP)MadridSpain
| | - Weihua Guan
- Division of Biostatistics, School of Public HealthUniversity of MinnesotaMinneapolisMinnesotaUSA
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Pelikh A, Remes H, Metsä-Simola N, Goisis A. Partnership trajectories preceding medically assisted reproduction. POPULATION STUDIES 2024; 78:341-360. [PMID: 37310298 PMCID: PMC11318510 DOI: 10.1080/00324728.2023.2215213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The number of people who undergo medically assisted reproduction (MAR) to conceive has increased considerably in recent decades. However, existing research into the demographics and the partnership histories of this growing subgroup is limited. Using unique data from Finnish population registers on nulliparous women born in Finland in 1971-77 (n = 21,129; ∼10 per cent of all women) who had undergone MAR treatment, we created longitudinal partnership histories from age 16 until first MAR treatment. We identified six typical partnership trajectories and used relative frequency sequence plots to investigate heterogeneity in partnership transitions within and between these groups. The majority of women (60.7 per cent) underwent MAR with their first partner, followed by women who underwent MAR in a second (21.5 per cent) or higher-order partnership (7.1 per cent), while 10.7 per cent underwent MAR without a partner. On average, women undergoing MAR were relatively young (with around half starting treatment before age 30) and were highly educated with high incomes.
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Tierney KI, Greil AL, Bell AV. Socioeconomic and Racial/Ethnic Inequalities in Infertility Prevalence, Help-Seeking, and Help Received Since 1995. Womens Health Issues 2024; 34:401-408. [PMID: 38692970 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2024.03.005] [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: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the United States, infertility and treatment for infertility are marked by racial/ethnic and socioeconomic inequalities. Simultaneously, biomedical advances and increased public health attention toward preventing and addressing infertility have grown. It is not known, however, whether the racial/ethnic and socioeconomic inequalities observed in infertility prevalence, help-seeking, or help received have changed over time. METHODS Using National Survey of Family Growth data (1995 through 2017-2019 cycles), this study applied multivariable logistic regression with interaction terms to investigate whether and how racial/ethnic and socioeconomic inequalities in 1) the prevalence of infertility, 2) ever seeking help to become pregnant, and 3) use of common types of medical help (advice, testing, medication for ovulation, surgery for blocked tubes, and artificial insemination) have changed over time. RESULTS The results showed persisting, rather than narrowing or increasing, inequalities in the prevalence of infertility and help-seeking overall. The results showed persisting racial/ethnic inequalities in testing, ovulation medication use, and surgery for blocked tubes. By contrast, the results showed widening socioeconomic inequalities in testing and narrowing inequalities in the use of ovulation medications. CONCLUSIONS There is little evidence to suggest policy interventions, biomedical advances, or increased public health awareness has narrowed inequalities in infertility prevalence, treatment seeking, or use of specific treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Arthur L Greil
- Division of Social Sciences, Alfred University, Alfred, New York
| | - Ann V Bell
- Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware
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5
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Gawron A, Milewski N. Migration, Partner Selection, and Fertility in Germany: How Many Children are Born in Mixed Unions? EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF POPULATION = REVUE EUROPEENNE DE DEMOGRAPHIE 2024; 40:24. [PMID: 38940881 PMCID: PMC11213842 DOI: 10.1007/s10680-024-09710-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
For the German context, we investigate whether the number of children ever born differs between mixed unions (exogamous unions between natives and migrants or migrant descendants) and endogamous unions (unions among co-ethnics). Our theoretical considerations are derived from assimilation theories, which view exogamous unions as indicators of assimilation processes, and the framework on migrant fertility. The migrant (or descendant) partner in an exogamous union may adapt to the majority group, both partners may adapt to each other, or both partners may constitute a selected group in their fertility preferences. However, due to the higher likelihood of conflicts within the partnership and of separation, exogamy may disrupt family formation processes and depress couples' fertility. Drawing on data from the GSOEP (1984-2020), we estimate generalized Poisson regressions. The results reveal that the number of children ever born is higher in exogamous unions than in endogamous native couples. This general pattern largely persists across migrant generations and regions of origin, but we identify gender differences. While fertility in exogamous unions of native women/migrant (descendant) men is not statistically different from fertility in native/native couples, unions of migrant (descendant) women/native men have more children, especially when controlling for socio-demographic confounders. Our results demonstrate that in the German context, exogamy does not lead to fertility disruptions, and is not straightforwardly associated with assimilation to the fertility of the majority group. Instead, differences in gendered partner choice patterns and life-course transitions may influence the number of children exogamous couples have.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annegret Gawron
- Institute of Sociology and Demography, University of Rostock, Ulmenstraße 69, 18057, Rostock, Germany.
| | - Nadja Milewski
- Federal Institute for Population Research, Wiesbaden, Germany
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Galatidou S, Petelski AA, Pujol A, Lattes K, Latorraca LB, Fair T, Popovic M, Vassena R, Slavov N, Barragán M. Single-cell proteomics reveals decreased abundance of proteostasis and meiosis proteins in advanced maternal age oocytes. Mol Hum Reprod 2024; 30:gaae023. [PMID: 38870523 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaae023] [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: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Advanced maternal age is associated with a decline in oocyte quality, which often leads to reproductive failure in humans. However, the mechanisms behind this age-related decline remain unclear. To gain insights into this phenomenon, we applied plexDIA, a multiplexed data-independent acquisition, single-cell mass spectrometry method, to analyze the proteome of oocytes from both young women and women of advanced maternal age. Our findings primarily revealed distinct proteomic profiles between immature fully grown germinal vesicle and mature metaphase II oocytes. Importantly, we further show that a woman's age is associated with changes in her oocyte proteome. Specifically, when compared to oocytes obtained from young women, advanced maternal age oocytes exhibited lower levels of the proteasome and TRiC complex, as well as other key regulators of proteostasis and meiosis. This suggests that aging adversely affects the proteostasis and meiosis networks in human oocytes. The proteins identified in this study hold potential as targets for improving oocyte quality and may guide future studies into the molecular processes underlying oocyte aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Styliani Galatidou
- Research and Development, EUGIN Group, Barcelona, Spain
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Aleksandra A Petelski
- Department of Bioengineering, Single Cell Proteomics Center and Barnett Institute, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | | - Lais B Latorraca
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Trudee Fair
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mina Popovic
- Research and Development, EUGIN Group, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rita Vassena
- Research and Development, EUGIN Group, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nikolai Slavov
- Department of Bioengineering, Single Cell Proteomics Center and Barnett Institute, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
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7
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Liu Y, Su Y, Li X. Psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on infertile patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Psych J 2024. [PMID: 38894564 DOI: 10.1002/pchj.782] [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: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
The present study aimed to examine the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on infertile patients. We adopted a comparison design and searched articles published from 1 September 2016 to 31 December 2019 as the control group, while articles published from 1 January 2020 to 31 April 2023 were treated as the pandemic group. Specifically, Web of Science, PubMed, Medline, PsycArticle, CNKI and PsycINFO were searched to identify potential eligible records. Risk of bias was assessed, and random-effects meta-analyses were conducted to estimate the prevalence of specific mental health problems. Forty studies with a total of 19,480 participants were included in the analysis. The pooled prevalence of anxiety in the pandemic group was significantly higher than that in the control group. The depression and stress prevalence in the pandemic group was higher than that in the control group, yet did not reach statistical significance. A subgroup analysis revealed region differences with developed countries exhibiting higher rates of anxiety and depression in the pandemic group, but the result was the opposite in the control group. Physiological factors, psychological factors and social factors correlated with infertile patients' mental health were identified. The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant negative impact on infertile patients' mental health, emphasizing the importance of ways to mitigate the risks during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Liu
- School of Psychology, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yiyao Su
- School of Psychology, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiaoshan Li
- Center of Mental Health Education and Research, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, China
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8
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Willführ KP, Klüsener S. The current 'dramatically' high paternal ages at childbirth are not unprecedented. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:1161-1166. [PMID: 38569672 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
There is strong individual-level evidence that late fatherhood is related to a wide range of health disorders and conditions in offspring. Over the last decades, mean paternal ages at childbirth have risen drastically. This has alarmed researchers from a wide range of fields. However, existing studies have an important shortcoming in that they lack a long-term perspective. This article is a step change in providing such a long-term perspective. We unveil that in many countries the current mean paternal ages at childbirth and proportions of fathers of advanced age at childbirth are not unprecedented. Taking the detected U-shaped trend pattern into account, we discuss individual- and population-level implications of the recent increases in paternal ages at childbirth and highlight important knowledge gaps. At the individual level, some of the biological mechanisms that are responsible for the paternal age-related health risk might, at least to some degree, be counterbalanced by various social factors. Further, how these individual-level effects are linked to population health and human cognitive development might be influenced by various factors, including technical advances and regulations in prenatal diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai P Willführ
- Institute for Social Sciences, School of Educational and Social Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky University, Oldenburg, Germany
- Center for Economic Demography, Department of Economic History, Lund University, Sweden
| | - Sebastian Klüsener
- Ageing, Mortality and Population Dynamics, Federal Institute for Population Research (BiB), Wiesbaden, Germany
- Institute of Sociology and Social Psychology (ISS), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Centre for Demographic Research, Vytautas Magnus University, Kaunas, Lithuania
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9
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Galatidou S, Petelski A, Pujol A, Lattes K, Latorraca LB, Fair T, Popovic M, Vassena R, Slavov N, Barragan M. Single-cell proteomics reveals decreased abundance of proteostasis and meiosis proteins in advanced maternal age oocytes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.23.595547. [PMID: 38903107 PMCID: PMC11188101 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.23.595547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Advanced maternal age is associated with a decline in oocyte quality, which often leads to reproductive failure in humans. However, the mechanisms behind this age-related decline remain unclear. To gain insights into this phenomenon, we applied plexDIA, a multiplexed, single-cell mass spectrometry method, to analyze the proteome of oocytes from both young women and women of advanced maternal age. Our findings primarily revealed distinct proteomic profiles between immature fully grown germinal vesicle and mature metaphase II oocytes. Importantly, we further show that a woman's age is associated with changes in her oocyte proteome. Specifically, when compared to oocytes obtained from young women, advanced maternal age oocytes exhibited lower levels of the proteasome and TRiC complex, as well as other key regulators of proteostasis and meiosis. This suggests that aging adversely affects the proteostasis and meiosis networks in human oocytes. The proteins identified in this study hold potential as targets for improving oocyte quality and may guide future studies into the molecular processes underlying oocyte aging.
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10
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Kaltsas A, Zikopoulos A, Vrachnis D, Skentou C, Symeonidis EN, Dimitriadis F, Stavros S, Chrisofos M, Sofikitis N, Vrachnis N, Zachariou A. Advanced Paternal Age in Focus: Unraveling Its Influence on Assisted Reproductive Technology Outcomes. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2731. [PMID: 38792276 PMCID: PMC11122544 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13102731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
As global demographics shift toward increasing paternal age, the realm of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs), particularly in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), faces new challenges and opportunities. This study provides a comprehensive exploration of the implications of advanced paternal age on ART outcomes. Background research highlights the social, cultural, and economic factors driving men toward later fatherhood, with a focus on the impact of delayed paternity on reproductive outcomes. Methods involve a thorough review of existing literature, centering on changes in testicular function, semen quality, and genetic and epigenetic shifts associated with advancing age. Study results point to intricate associations between the father's age and ART outcomes, with older age being linked to diminished semen quality, potential genetic risks, and varied impacts on embryo quality, implantation rates, and birth outcomes. The conclusions drawn from the current study suggest that while advanced paternal age presents certain risks and challenges, understanding and mitigating these through strategies such as sperm cryopreservation, lifestyle modifications, and preimplantation genetic testing can optimize ART outcomes. Future research directions are identified to further comprehend the epigenetic mechanisms and long-term effects of the older father on offspring health. This study underscores the need for a comprehensive approach in navigating the intricacies of delayed fatherhood within the context of ART, aiming for the best possible outcomes for couples and their children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aris Kaltsas
- Third Department of Urology, Attikon University Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (A.K.); (M.C.)
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Athanasios Zikopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro TR1 3LJ, UK;
| | - Dionysios Vrachnis
- Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece;
| | - Chara Skentou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Evangelos N. Symeonidis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.N.S.); (F.D.)
| | - Fotios Dimitriadis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; (E.N.S.); (F.D.)
| | - Sofoklis Stavros
- Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Attikon University Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (S.S.)
| | - Michael Chrisofos
- Third Department of Urology, Attikon University Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (A.K.); (M.C.)
| | - Nikolaos Sofikitis
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Nikolaos Vrachnis
- Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Attikon University Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece; (S.S.)
- Vascular Biology, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Athanasios Zachariou
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
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Slabá J, Kocourková J, Šťastná A. The fertility timing gap: the intended and real timing of childbirth. J Biosoc Sci 2024; 56:504-517. [PMID: 38356439 DOI: 10.1017/s002193202400004x] [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] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
The fertility gap, which indicates the difference between the planned and actual number of children born, can be explained by the shift in parenthood to older ages and is associated with the non-attainment of one's intended reproductive plans. This paper focuses on the gap in the timing of entry into parenthood, i.e. between the planned and actual age at the birth of the first child. The study is based on data from the Women 2016 survey which re-interviewed women of fertile age from the second wave of the Czech Generations & Gender Survey conducted in 2008. At the population level, the fertility timing gap differs across generations. While for Czech women born between 1966 and 1971 the planned age exceeded the actual observed age by one year, the realisation of fertility occurred two years later than planned for the youngest generation (1983-1990) included in the study. At the individual level, the later-than-planned realisation of fertility was found to be related primarily to partner-related factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitka Slabá
- Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | - Anna Šťastná
- Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
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Mashayekh-Amiri S, Asghari Jafarabadi M, Molaie B, Rashidi F, Hemati E, Aliasghari F, Mirghafourvand M. Validation and measurement properties of the Male and Female Fertility Knowledge Inventories (MFKI and FFKI) in Iranian couples. Reprod Health 2024; 21:57. [PMID: 38649965 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-024-01795-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the most important population challenges during the last three decades has been the significant decrease in the fertility rate worldwide. Since the validity and reliability of the Male and Female Fertility Knowledge Inventories (MFKI and FFKI) have not been determined in Iran, we conducted this study to assess psychometric characteristics of the MFKI and FFKI in couples in Tabriz and Urmia, Iran. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study, as the first part (quantitative phase) of a sequential explanatory mixed-method study. The current study was done on 1200 participants (600 women with their husbands) living in the northwestern region of Iran, between January 2023 and September 2023. The psychometric properties of the Persian version of the tool (MFKI and FFKI) were performed in 5 stages, including translation process, content validity, face validity, construct validity and reliability assesment. RESULTS In this study, the CVI, CVR, and impact scores of the MFKI tool were equal to 0.90, 0.88, 3.26 and CVI, CVR, and Impact scores of the FFKI tool were respectively equal to 0.95, 0.91 and 3.59, that it indicated a satisfactory level of content and face validity. Then, to check the construct validity, the results of the exploratory factor analysis of the MFKI tool on 13 items led to the identification of 3 factors, including Environment and reproductive health (ERH), Lifestyle factors (LSF) and Sperm quality (SQ), which explained 66% of the cumulative variance. The results of the exploratory factor analysis of the FFKI tool on 15 items led to the identification of 4 factors, including Reproductive health (RH), Lifestyle factors (LSF), Chance of conception (CHC) and Ovarian reserve and preservation (ORP), which explained 68% of the cumulative variance. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study indicated that the Persian version of MFKI and FFKI has acceptable psychometric properties to measure the awareness of Iranian couples regarding fertility, which can be used as a screening tool for fertility knowledge by health care professionals and also as a reliable tool in research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh Mashayekh-Amiri
- Student of Midwifery, Students Research Committee, Midwifery Department, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Tabriz University of Medical sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Asghari Jafarabadi
- Cabrini Research, Cabrini Health, Malvern, VIC, 3144, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Road Traffic Injury Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Behnam Molaie
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Science, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Rashidi
- Students Research Committee, Midwifery Department, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Tabriz University of Medical sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Elnaz Hemati
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Aliasghari
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Midwifery Department, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Mojgan Mirghafourvand
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Buljubašić A, Švaljug D, Mudnić Pulje M, Gusar I, Jerković J, Jerončić Tomić I. Knowledge about Fertility in Croatia, Measured with the Croatian Version of the Cardiff Fertility Knowledge Scale (CFKS-Hr), in Relation to Attitudes toward Having a Child and Associated Factors in a Cross-Sectional Survey. NURSING REPORTS 2024; 14:816-828. [PMID: 38651475 PMCID: PMC11036257 DOI: 10.3390/nursrep14020063] [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: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fertility is a crucial component of population maintenance and growth. A declining fertility trend has been observed over the past two decades, and it continues. The birth rate in the Republic of Croatia is continuously decreasing, which is insufficient to maintain its population. OBJECTIVE This research aimed to examine the level of fertility knowledge, factors influencing fertility knowledge, and the relationship between fertility knowledge and the decision to have a child. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of mothers in five hospitals on the Adriatic coast of the Republic of Croatia, involving 1541 mothers, 18 years and older, from September 2021 to December 2023. The Cardiff Fertility Knowledge Scale (CFKS) was used for the research. The participants were divided into four groups according to age. The analysis was conducted using SPSS software (version 22.0). Descriptive statistics, chi-squared tests, t-tests, and Pearson's correlations were used for the data analysis. RESULTS The average percent correct score on the CFKS was 51.8% (SD 22.6), with greater knowledge being significantly related to married status and higher education status (both p < 0.05). A total of 83% of mothers who have one child want to have more children. Fewer mothers who have two children want to have more children (42%), while only 11% of mothers who have three or more children want to have more children. There is no significant relationship between the CFKS and the importance of childbearing in the future (p = 0.12). Respondents indicated that they gained most of their knowledge from the internet (31%) and from the healthcare system (33%). CONCLUSIONS The research results reveal a lack of fertility knowledge among participants, as well as an intention to have a child in the later stages of life. The lack of formal education on this topic leads to information gathering from friends, newspapers, television, and the internet. This study was not registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ante Buljubašić
- Department of Health Studies, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.M.P.); (J.J.)
| | - Deana Švaljug
- Faculty of Health Studies Rijeka, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia;
| | - Martina Mudnić Pulje
- Department of Health Studies, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.M.P.); (J.J.)
| | - Ivana Gusar
- Department of Health Studies, University of Zadar, 23000 Zadar, Croatia;
| | - Jelena Jerković
- Department of Health Studies, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia; (M.M.P.); (J.J.)
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Armijo-Sánchez A, Benítez Castillo N, García-Vidal E, Luna Chadid M, Salvador Ballada C, Valls Ricart G, Torres Pellens V. Treatment With a Patented 3.6:1 Myo-Inositol to D-chiro-Inositol Ratio, Antioxidants, Vitamins and Minerals Food Supplement in Women With a History of Assisted Reproductive Technique (ART) Failures: A Series of Case Reports. CLINICAL MEDICINE INSIGHTS-CASE REPORTS 2024; 17:11795476241242265. [PMID: 38559382 PMCID: PMC10981332 DOI: 10.1177/11795476241242265] [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: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Infertility affects 15% of couples in reproductive age worldwide. In women in particular, infertility can be caused by various abnormalities, with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) being the most common. Currently, there are many assisted reproductive techniques (ART) available to combat the burden of infertility. However, positive results are not guaranteed. The administration of inositol has been shown to increase positive reproductive outcomes in women undergoing ART. Here we present a series of clinical cases in which women with a history of infertility and previously failed ART, supplemented with a specific 3.6:1 MYO:DCI ratio, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals for a period of 1 to 3 months before undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). In this series of case reports, we provide preliminary evidence that supplementation with a specific 3.6:1 MYO to DCI ratio, as well as antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals may contribute positively to female fertility in women undergoing IVF, with a history of primary or secondary infertility and previously failed ART.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - N. Benítez Castillo
- Hospital Universitario Materno Infantil de Canarias, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
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15
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Kan-Tor Y, Srebnik N, Gavish M, Shalit U, Buxboim A. Evaluating the heterogeneous effect of extended culture to blastocyst transfer on the implantation outcome via causal inference in fresh ICSI cycles. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:703-715. [PMID: 38321264 PMCID: PMC10957840 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03023-x] [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: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE In IVF treatments, extended culture to single blastocyst transfer is the recommended protocol over cleavage-stage transfer. However, evidence-based criteria for assessing the heterogeneous implications on implantation outcomes are lacking. The purpose of this work is to estimate the causal effect of blastocyst transfer on implantation outcome. METHODS We fit a causal forest model using a multicenter observational dataset that includes an exogenous source of variability in treatment assignment and has a strong claim for satisfying the assumptions needed for valid causal inference from observational data. RESULTS We quantified the probability difference in embryo implantation if transferred as a blastocyst versus cleavage stage. Blastocyst transfer increased the average implantation rate; however, we revealed a subpopulation of embryos whose implantation potential is predicted to increase via cleavage-stage transfer. CONCLUSION Relative to the current policy, the proposed embryo transfer policy retrospectively improves implantation rate from 0.2 to 0.27. Our work demonstrates the efficacy of implementing causal inference in reproductive medicine and motivates its utilization in medical disciplines that are dominated by retrospective datasets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoav Kan-Tor
- Rachel and Selim Benin School for Computer Science and Engineering, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, The Edmond J. Safra Campus Givat Ram, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel
- The Center for Interdisciplinary Data Science Research, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, The Edmond J. Safra Campus, Givat Ram, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Naama Srebnik
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, The Edmond J. Safra Campus, Givat Ram, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel
- Hebrew University School of Medicine, In Vitro Fertilization Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, 9103102, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Matan Gavish
- Rachel and Selim Benin School for Computer Science and Engineering, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, The Edmond J. Safra Campus Givat Ram, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel
- The Center for Interdisciplinary Data Science Research, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, The Edmond J. Safra Campus, Givat Ram, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Uri Shalit
- Data and Decision Sciences, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, 3200003, Haifa, Israel
| | - Amnon Buxboim
- Rachel and Selim Benin School for Computer Science and Engineering, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, The Edmond J. Safra Campus Givat Ram, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel.
- The Center for Interdisciplinary Data Science Research, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, The Edmond J. Safra Campus, Givat Ram, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel.
- Alexander Grass Center for Bioengineering, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, The Edmond J. Safra Campus, Givat Ram, 9190401, Jerusalem, Israel.
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Fauser BCJM, Adamson GD, Boivin J, Chambers GM, de Geyter C, Dyer S, Inhorn MC, Schmidt L, Serour GI, Tarlatzis B, Zegers-Hochschild F. Declining global fertility rates and the implications for family planning and family building: an IFFS consensus document based on a narrative review of the literature. Hum Reprod Update 2024; 30:153-173. [PMID: 38197291 PMCID: PMC10905510 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family-planning policies have focused on contraceptive approaches to avoid unintended pregnancies, postpone, or terminate pregnancies and mitigate population growth. These policies have contributed to significantly slowing world population growth. Presently, half the countries worldwide exhibit a fertility rate below replacement level. Not including the effects of migration, many countries are predicted to have a population decline of >50% from 2017 to 2100, causing demographic changes with profound societal implications. Policies that optimize chances to have a child when desired increase fertility rates and are gaining interest as a family-building method. Increasingly, countries have implemented child-friendly policies (mainly financial incentives in addition to public funding of fertility treatment in a limited number of countries) to mitigate decreasing national populations. However, the extent of public spending on child benefits varies greatly from country to country. To our knowledge, this International Federation of Fertility Societies (IFFS) consensus document represents the first attempt to describe major disparities in access to fertility care in the context of the global trend of decreasing growth in the world population, based on a narrative review of the existing literature. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The concept of family building, the process by which individuals or couples create or expand their families, has been largely ignored in family-planning paradigms. Family building encompasses various methods and options for individuals or couples who wish to have children. It can involve biological means, such as natural conception, as well as ART, surrogacy, adoption, and foster care. Family-building acknowledges the diverse ways in which individuals or couples can create their desired family and reflects the understanding that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to building a family. Developing education programs for young adults to increase family-building awareness and prevent infertility is urgently needed. Recommendations are provided and important knowledge gaps identified to provide professionals, the public, and policymakers with a comprehensive understanding of the role of child-friendly policies. SEARCH METHODS A narrative review of the existing literature was performed by invited global leaders who themselves significantly contributed to this research field. Each section of the review was prepared by two to three experts, each of whom searched the published literature (PubMed) for peer reviewed full papers and reviews. Sections were discussed monthly by all authors and quarterly by the review board. The final document was prepared following discussions among all team members during a hybrid invitational meeting where full consensus was reached. OUTCOMES Major advances in fertility care have dramatically improved family-building opportunities since the 1990s. Although up to 10% of all children are born as a result of fertility care in some wealthy countries, there is great variation in access to care. The high cost to patients of infertility treatment renders it unaffordable for most. Preliminary studies point to the increasing contribution of fertility care to the global population and the associated economic benefits for society. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Fertility care has rarely been discussed in the context of a rapid decrease in world population growth. Soon, most countries will have an average number of children per woman far below the replacement level. While this may have a beneficial impact on the environment, underpopulation is of great concern in many countries. Although governments have implemented child-friendly policies, distinct discrepancies in access to fertility care remain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bart C J M Fauser
- University Medical Center Utrecht, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | - Silke Dyer
- Groot Schuur Hospital and Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Luo Y, An C, Zhong K, Zhou P, Li D, Liu H, Guo Q, Wei W, Pan H, Min Z, Li R, Yu Y, Fan Y. Exploring the impacts of senescence on implantation and early embryonic development using totipotent cell-derived blastoids. J Adv Res 2024:S2090-1232(24)00073-0. [PMID: 38402947 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2024.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Advanced maternal age is associated with reduced implantation and pregnancy rates, yet the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood, and research models are limited. OBJECTIVES Here, we aim to elucidate the impacts of senescence on implantation ability by employing blastoids to construct a novel research model. METHODS We used a novel three-dimensional system with totipotent blastomere-like cells (TBLCs) to construct TBL-blastoids and established senescence-related embryo models derived from oxidative stress-induced TBLCs. RESULTS Morphological and transcriptomic analyses revealed that TBL-blastoids exhibited characteristic blastocyst morphology, cell lineages, and a higher consistency in developmental rate. TBL-blastoids demonstrated the ability to develop into postimplantation structures in vitro and successfully implanted into mouse uteri, inducing decidualization and forming embryonic tissues. Importantly, senescence impaired the implantation potential of TBL-blastoids, effectively mimicking the impaired implantation ability and reduced pregnancy rates associated with advanced age. Furthermore, analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in human homologous deciduae revealed enrichment in multiple fertility-related diseases and other complications of pregnancy. The genes implicated in these diseases and the common DEGs identified in the lineage-like cells of the two types of TBL-blastoids and deciduae may represent potential targets for addressing impaired implantation potential. CONCLUSION These results unveiled that TBL blastoids are an improved model for investigating implantation and early postimplantation, offering valuable insights into pregnancy-related disorders in women with advanced age and potential targets for therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Promotion, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Chenrui An
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510150, China
| | - Ke Zhong
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510150, China
| | - Ping Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Promotion, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Dan Li
- Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Qing Guo
- Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Hen Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Promotion, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Zheying Min
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510150, China.
| | - Rong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Promotion, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Yang Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Promotion, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China; Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.
| | - Yong Fan
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510150, China.
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Chwastek A, Mynarska M. Navigating work and motherhood: exploring the link between career orientation and childbearing motivations in emerging adulthood. J Reprod Infant Psychol 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38363339 DOI: 10.1080/02646838.2024.2316317] [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: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Difficulties in reconciling work and family life are recognised as one of the major reasons for women delaying or even forgoing childbearing. Nonetheless, there are different mechanisms through which women's engagement in the labour market can impact their choices regarding having children. The current study focuses on the relationship between women's career orientation and the childbearing motivation of young, childless women. Additionally, we examine the moderating effect of women's self-esteem. METHODS Questionnaires to assess women's childbearing motivation, career orientation (career commitment and career centeredness), and self-esteem were administered online to Polish childless women aged 18-25 (N = 358). Multivariate regression was performed to verify how professional aspirations determine childbearing motivation. Moderation analysis included self-esteem in the equation. RESULTS Women's desire to be employed over their life course (career commitment) was associated with perceiving childbearing as less strenuous. However, women who placed a higher value on professional development perceived more costs and barriers related to parenthood. Women with higher self-esteem demonstrated a generally more negative view of childbearing, yet their perceived costs of having children increased along with rising professional aspirations. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate that career aspirations are a highly complex construct, and their relationship to childbearing motivation may differ depending on how women perceive their future in the labour market. The mere desire to engage in professional work is not detrimental to childbearing motivation, but the anticipated costs of having children become greater the more a woman is career-centred and the lower her self-esteem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Chwastek
- Institute of Psychology, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Monika Mynarska
- Institute of Psychology, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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Greil AL, Wallace DD, Passet-Wittig J, McQuillan J, Bujard M, Lowry MH. Self-Perceived Infertility is Not Always Associated with Having Fewer Children: Evidence from German Panel Data. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF POPULATION = REVUE EUROPEENNE DE DEMOGRAPHIE 2024; 40:8. [PMID: 38347334 PMCID: PMC10861411 DOI: 10.1007/s10680-023-09692-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Proximate determinants theory considers infertility rates a risk factor for lower fertility rates, but the assumption that people who perceive infertility will have fewer children has not been tested. This study investigates the association of self-perceived infertility with the number of children people have had after 11 years. Infertility implies reduced chances of conception (rather than sterility), but people do not always consistently perceive infertility over time. If people who think they are infertile at one time can later report no infertility, then does self-perceived infertility necessarily lead to having fewer children? We answer this question by analyzing 11 waves of the German family panel (pairfam) data using negative binomial growth curve models for eight core demographic subgroups created by combinations of gender (men/women), parity (0/1+children), and initial age groups (25-27 and 35-37). Those who repeatedly perceived themselves to be infertile (three times or more) had fewer children than those who perceived themselves to be infertile once or twice in only four of eight gender by initial parity by age groups. Only in four groups did people who perceived themselves to be infertile once or twice have fewer children than those who never perceived themselves to be infertile in both the unadjusted and adjusted models. Thus, self-perceived infertility does not necessarily result in fewer children. Rather, the association depends upon life course context and gender.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur L Greil
- Division of Social Sciences, Alfred University, Alfred, NY, USA
| | | | - Jasmin Passet-Wittig
- Family and Fertility Research Area, Federal Institute for Population Research, Wiesbaden, Germany
| | - Julia McQuillan
- Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - Martin Bujard
- Family and Fertility Research Area, Federal Institute for Population Research, Wiesbaden, Germany.
| | - Michele H Lowry
- Division of Social Sciences, Alfred University, Alfred, NY, USA
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de Smith AJ, Spector LG. In Utero Origins of Acute Leukemia in Children. Biomedicines 2024; 12:236. [PMID: 38275407 PMCID: PMC10813074 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12010236] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute leukemias, mainly consisting of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML), comprise a major diagnostic group among hematologic cancers. Due to the early age at onset of ALL, particularly, it has long been suspected that acute leukemias of childhood may have an in utero origin. This supposition has motivated many investigations seeking direct proof of prenatal leukemogenesis, in particular, twin and "backtracking studies". The suspected in utero origin has also focused on gestation as a critical window of risk, resulting in a rich literature on prenatal risk factors for pediatric acute leukemias. In this narrative review, we recount the circumstantial and direct evidence for an in utero origin of childhood acute leukemias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam J. de Smith
- Center for Genetic Epidemiology, Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA;
- USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Logan G. Spector
- Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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Zhicheng J, Yongqian L, Peixuan W, Kai Y, Mengyu S, Wen C, Qihui L, Ying G. ErZhiTianGui Decoction alleviates age-related ovarian aging by regulating mitochondrial homeostasis and inhibiting ferroptosis. J Ovarian Res 2024; 17:12. [PMID: 38200521 PMCID: PMC10777630 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01341-9] [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] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
AIM This study was designed to investigate the pharmacological effects and mechanisms of ErZhiTianGui Decoction (EZTG) for age-related ovarian aging in mice. METHODS This study used naturally aging mice as a model, and EZTG was used for intragastric administration. Ovarian pathological changes, as well as follicular reserve were assessed by hematoxylin and eosin staining, and serum hormone levels (anti-mullerian hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone), mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) damage marker 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine(8-OHdG), and lipid peroxidation markers glutathione(GSH) and malondialdehyde(MDA) were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) levels in ovaries were determined using flow cytometry. The levels of PINK1 and Parkin were observed using immunofluorescence staining. Mitochondrial-derived vesicles (MDVs) and mitochondrial morphology were observed using electron microscopy. Prussian blue staining was used to observe iron ion aggregation in ovarian tissue. The Iron assay kits detected total iron levels. Western blot was used to detect the expression of proteins related to mitochondrial and ferroptosis related genes. RESULTS After EZTG treatment, aged mice showed increased ovarian reserve, improved serum hormone levels, increased MMP, GSH levels, and decreased mitochondrial ROS, 8-OHdG, and MDA levels. Immunofluorescence staining showed decreased levels of PINK1 and Parkin, and the same trend was observed for the Western blot. Meanwhile, electron microscopy showed that EZTG improved the mitochondrial morphology in the ovaries of aged mice. EZTG also decreased the total iron and protein levels of Acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family4 (ACSL4) and increased the protein level of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) in the ovaries of aged mice. CONCLUSIONS EZTG can maintain PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitochondrial homeostasis, reduce the lipid peroxidation caused by the accumulation of ROS, and inhibit the occurrence of ferroptosis and delaying ovarian aging. These findings suggest that EZTG may be a promising drug for treating age-related ovarian aging in females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Zhicheng
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Li Yongqian
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Wang Peixuan
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yang Kai
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Shi Mengyu
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Chen Wen
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Liang Qihui
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Guo Ying
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.
- Reproductive and Genetic Center of Integrative Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.
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Chen X, Liang J, Yang Q, Huang J, Li L, Deng K. Age affects the association between socioeconomic status and infertility: a cross-sectional study. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:675. [PMID: 38115086 PMCID: PMC10729442 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02680-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have shown the interaction between age and socioeconomic status (SES) on the risk of infertility in the UK, but the association is still unclear in the United States. Therefore, the present study investigated the effect of age on the relationship between SES and the risk of infertility in American women. METHODS The study included adults who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2013 to 2018. The poverty income ratio (PIR) was used to represent the SES of the population. With participants stratified according to age category (< 35 years; ≥ 35 years), we further assessed differences in the relationship between PIR and infertility risk among participants of different age groups using multivariate logistic regression and interaction tests. RESULTS Approximately 3,273 participants were enrolled in the study. There were 399 cases of infertility and 2,874 cases without infertility. In women ≥ 35 years of age, PIR levels were significantly higher in infertile participants than in non-infertile participants, but no such difference was found in those < 35 years of age. The association of PIR with the risk of infertility appeared to differ between age < 35 years and age ≥ 35 years (OR: 0.99, 95%Cl: 0.86-1.13 vs. OR: 1.24, 95%Cl: 1.12-1.39) in a fully adjusted model. Furthermore, an interaction between age and PIR increased the risk of infertility (p-value for interaction < 0.001). CONCLUSION Our study found that age may influence the association between PIR and infertility. It is imperative to perform further studies to provide more evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiting Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), No.1 Jiazi Road, Lunjiao, Shunde District, Foshan City, 528308, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jiemei Liang
- Department of Gynecology, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), No.1 Jiazi Road, Lunjiao, Shunde District, Foshan City, 528308, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Qian Yang
- Department of Gynecology, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), No.1 Jiazi Road, Lunjiao, Shunde District, Foshan City, 528308, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jinfa Huang
- Department of Gynecology, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), No.1 Jiazi Road, Lunjiao, Shunde District, Foshan City, 528308, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Lixin Li
- Department of Gynecology, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), No.1 Jiazi Road, Lunjiao, Shunde District, Foshan City, 528308, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Kaixian Deng
- Department of Gynecology, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), No.1 Jiazi Road, Lunjiao, Shunde District, Foshan City, 528308, Guangdong Province, China.
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Wang L, Han C, Lv X, Zeng S, Mu R, Deng Y, Xie W, Huang J, Wu S, Zhang Y, Zhang H, He Y, Peng Z, Wang Y, Shen H, Wang Q, Zhang Y, Yan D, Yang Y, Ma X. Structural transition of parenthood among Chinese nulliparous couples with planned pregnancies, 2013-2019. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2412. [PMID: 38049775 PMCID: PMC10696718 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17380-2] [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: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The postponement of parenthood is a global public health issue that has received attention of many public health experts. However, few studies have investigated the postponement in marriage age, marriage and conception interval, and pregnancy age in terms of demographic and regional heterogenicities. METHODS This is a cross-sectional, registry-based study, and a total of 13 894 601 nulliparous couples who participated in the National Free Pre-Pregnancy Check-ups Project and became pregnant during 2013-2019 were included. We calculated annual percentage change and forest plots for marriage age, marriage and conception interval, and pregnancy age. RESULTS Late marriage (marriage age ≥ 35 years), long marriage and conception interval (marriage and conception interval ≥ 2 years), and advanced pregnancy (pregnancy age ≥ 35 years) increased from 1.20%, 22.01%, and 1.88% in 2013 to 1.69%, 32.75%, and 2.79% in 2019, respectively. The corresponding annual percentage changes were 6.55%, 8.44%, and 8.17%. Participants without higher education had a higher annual percentage change, but comparable prevalence for long marriage and conception interval with participants with higher education. Participants residing in second- or new first-tier cities, and the northeast of China who had a higher prevalence of parenthood postponement also had higher corresponding annual percentage changes. CONCLUSIONS Structural postponement of parenthood with demographic and regional heterogenicities was observed among Chinese nulliparous couples with planned pregnancies during 2013-2019. Inclusive and comprehensive parenting support should be developed and implemented in mainland China to minimize the negative health effects arising from the postponement, especially for couples without higher education and living in new first/second-tier cities or the northeast China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Wang
- Institute of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Chunying Han
- Institute of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xinyi Lv
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Shuai Zeng
- Institute of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Rongwei Mu
- Institute of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yuzhi Deng
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Wenlu Xie
- Institute of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jiaxin Huang
- Institute of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Siyu Wu
- Institute of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ya Zhang
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
| | - Hongguang Zhang
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan He
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
| | - Zuoqi Peng
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wang
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China
| | - Haiping Shen
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, National Health Commission of the PRC, Beijing, China
| | - Qiaomei Wang
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, National Health Commission of the PRC, Beijing, China
| | - Yiping Zhang
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, National Health Commission of the PRC, Beijing, China
| | - Donghai Yan
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, National Health Commission of the PRC, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Yang
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China.
- National Human Genetic Resources Centre, Beijing, China.
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Xu Ma
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, China.
- National Human Genetic Resources Centre, Beijing, China.
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
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Bodin M, Plantin L, Schmidt L, Ziebe S, Elmerstig E. The pros and cons of fertility awareness and information: a generational, Swedish perspective. HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:216-225. [PMID: 34423731 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2021.1968045] [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: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Being aware of factors that affect fertility can help people make informed decisions about their reproductive futures. To some, however, fertility information leads to worry and self-blame. In this paper, we explore how people from different generations discuss fertility and reproductive decision-making, along with their perceptions of fertility information. The study was conducted in southern Sweden with 26 focus-group discussions that included a total of 110 participants aged 17-90 years. The material was analysed thematically. Our results show that fertility knowledge and openness to talking about fertility problems have increased over generations. Participants who were assigned female at birth were more often concerned about their fertility than those who were not, and fertility concerns were transferred from mothers to daughters. While age-related fertility concerns had been uncommon in older generations, participants aged 25-40 often expressed these concerns. Young adults appreciated being knowledgeable about fertility but simultaneously expressed how fertility information could lead to distress. Our conclusion is that fertility information was best received by high-school students, and efforts to improve fertility education in schools are therefore recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Bodin
- Centre for Sexology and Sexuality Studies, Malmö University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Lars Plantin
- Centre for Sexology and Sexuality Studies, Malmö University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Lone Schmidt
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, København, Denmark
| | - Søren Ziebe
- Fertility Clinic, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Eva Elmerstig
- Centre for Sexology and Sexuality Studies, Malmö University, Malmö, Sweden
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Petersen JF, Friis-Hansen LJ, Bryndorf T, Jensen AK, Andersen AN, Løkkegaard E. A Novel Approach to Predicting Early Pregnancy Outcomes Dynamically in a Prospective Cohort Using Repeated Ultrasound and Serum Biomarkers. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:3597-3609. [PMID: 37640889 PMCID: PMC10692000 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01323-8] [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: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to develop a dynamic model for predicting outcome during the first trimester of pregnancy using baseline demographic data and serially collected blood samples and transvaginal sonographies. A prospective cohort of 203 unselected women with an assumed healthy pregnancy of < 8 weeks' gestation was followed fortnightly from 4-14 weeks' gestation until either miscarriage or confirmed first trimester viability. The main outcome was development of a model to predict outcome from gestational age-dependent hazard ratios using both baseline and updated serial data from each visit. Secondary outcomes were descriptions of risk factors for miscarriage. The results showed that 18% of the women experienced miscarriages. A fetal heart rate detected before 8 weeks' gestation indicated a 90% (95% CI 85-95%) chance of subsequent delivery. Maternal age (≥ 35 years), insufficient crown-rump-length (CRL) and mean gestational sac diameter (MSD) development, and presence of bleeding increased the risk of miscarriage. Serum biomarkers, including hCG, progesterone, and estradiol, were found to impact the risk of miscarriage with estradiol as the most important. The best model to predict miscarriage was a combination of maternal age, vaginal bleeding, CRL, and hCG. The second-best model was the sonography-absent model of maternal age, bleeding, hCG, and estradiol. This study suggests that combining maternal age, and evolving data from hCG, estradiol, CRL, and bleeding could be used to predict fetal outcome during the first trimester of pregnancy.Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02761772.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Thue Bryndorf
- Gynecological Clinic, 10, 3, Ny Østergade, 1101, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Andreas Kryger Jensen
- Section of Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, North Zealand Hospital, Hillerød, Denmark
| | - Anders Nyboe Andersen
- The Fertility Clinic 4071, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ellen Løkkegaard
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, North Zealand Hospital, Hillerød, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Klutstein M, Gonen N. Epigenetic aging of mammalian gametes. Mol Reprod Dev 2023; 90:785-803. [PMID: 37997675 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23717] [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: 12/18/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
The process of aging refers to physiological changes that occur to an organism as time progresses and involves changes to DNA, proteins, metabolism, cells, and organs. Like the rest of the cells in the body, gametes age, and it is well established that there is a decline in reproductive capabilities in females and males with aging. One of the major pathways known to be involved in aging is epigenetic changes. The epigenome is the multitude of chemical modifications performed on DNA and chromatin that affect the ability of chromatin to be transcribed. In this review, we explore the effects of aging on female and male gametes with a focus on the epigenetic changes that occur in gametes throughout aging. Quality decline in oocytes occurs at a relatively early age. Epigenetic changes constitute an important part of oocyte aging. DNA methylation is reduced with age, along with reduced expression of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs). Histone deacetylases (HDAC) expression is also reduced, and a loss of heterochromatin marks occurs with age. As a consequence of heterochromatin loss, retrotransposon expression is elevated, and aged oocytes suffer from DNA damage. In sperm, aging affects sperm number, motility and fecundity, and epigenetic changes may constitute a part of this process. 5 methyl-cytosine (5mC) methylation is elevated in sperm from aged men, but methylation on Long interspersed nuclear elements (LINE) elements is reduced. Di and trimethylation of histone 3 lysine 9 (H3K9me2/3) is reduced in sperm from aged men and trimethylation of histone 3 lysine 27 (H3K27me3) is elevated. The protamine makeup of sperm from aged men is also changed, with reduced protamine expression and a misbalanced ratio between protamine proteins protamine P1 and protamine P2. The study of epigenetic reproductive aging is recently gaining interest. The current status of the field suggests that many aspects of gamete epigenetic aging are still open for investigation. The clinical applications of these investigations have far-reaching consequences for fertility and sociological human behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Klutstein
- Institute of Biomedical and Oral Research, Faculty of Dental Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nitzan Gonen
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Institute of Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
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Neeser NB, Martani A, De Clercq E, De Geyter C, Vulliemoz N, Elger BS, Wangmo T. Building a family at advanced parental age: a systematic review on the risks and opportunities for parents and their offspring. Hum Reprod Open 2023; 2023:hoad042. [PMID: 38045093 PMCID: PMC10692762 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoad042] [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: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the existing empirical literature on the psychosocial health and wellbeing of the parents and offspring born at an advanced parental age (APA), defined as 40 years onwards? SUMMARY ANSWER Although the studies show discrepancies in defining who is an APA parent and an imbalance in the empirical evidence for offspring, mothers, and fathers, there is a drive towards finding psychotic disorders and (neuro-)developmental disorders among the offspring; overall, the observed advantages and disadvantages are difficult to compare. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In many societies, children are born to parents at advanced ages and there is rising attention in the literature towards the consequences of this trend. STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION The systematic search was conducted in six electronic databases (PubMed including Medline, Embase, Scopus, PsycInfo, CINAHL, and SocINDEX) and was limited to papers published between 2000 and 2021 and to English-language articles. Search terms used across all six electronic databases were: ('advanced parental age' OR 'advanced maternal age' OR 'advanced paternal age' OR 'advanced reproductive age' OR 'late parent*' OR 'late motherhood' OR 'late fatherhood') AND ('IVF' OR 'in vitro fertilization' OR 'in-vitro-fertilization' OR 'fertilization in vitro' OR 'ICSI' OR 'intracytoplasmic sperm injection' OR 'reproductive techn*' OR 'assisted reproductive technolog*' OR 'assisted reproduction' OR 'assisted conception' OR 'reproduction' OR 'conception' OR 'birth*' OR 'pregnan*') AND ('wellbeing' OR 'well-being' OR 'psycho-social' OR 'social' OR 'ethical' OR 'right to reproduce' OR 'justice' OR 'family functioning' OR 'parental competenc*' OR 'ageism' OR 'reproductive autonomy' OR 'outcome' OR 'risk*' OR 'benefit*'). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS The included papers were empirical studies in English published between 2000 and 2021, where the study either examined the wellbeing and psychosocial health of parents and/or their children, or focused on parental competences of APA parents or on the functioning of families with APA parents. A quality assessment of the identified studies was performed with the QATSDD tool. Additionally, 20% of studies were double-checked at the data extraction and quality assessment stage to avoid bias. The variables sought were: the geographical location, the year of publication, the methodological approach, the definitions of APA used, what study group was at the centre of the research, what research topic was studied, and what advantages and disadvantages of APA were found. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A total number of 5403 articles were identified, leading to 2543 articles being included for title and abstract screening after removal of duplicates. This resulted in 98 articles included for a full-text reading by four researchers. Ultimately, 69 studies were included in the final sample. The key results concerned four aspects relevant to the research goals. (i) The studies showed discrepancies in defining who is an APA parent. (ii) There was an imbalance in the empirical evidence produced for different participant groups (mothers, fathers, and offspring), with offspring being the most studied study subjects. (iii) The research topics studied underlined the increased risks of neuro-developmental and psychotic disorders among offspring. (iv) The observed advantages and disadvantages were varied and could not be compared, especially for the offspring of APA parents. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION Only English-language studies, published between 2000 and 2021, found in the above-mentioned databases were considered for this review. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS More research is necessary to understand the risks and benefits of building a family at an APA for the offspring when they reach adulthood. Furthermore, studies that explore the perspective of older fathers and older parents from non-Western societies would be highly informative. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS The writing of this manuscript was permitted by financial support provided by the Swiss National Science Foundation (Weave/Lead Agency funding program, grant number 10001AL_197415/1, project title 'Family Building at Advanced Parental Age: An Interdisciplinary Approach'). The funder had no role in the drafting of this manuscript and the views expressed therein are those of the authors. The authors have no conflicts of interest. REGISTRATION NUMBER This systematic review is registered in Prospero: CRD42022304564.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie B Neeser
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Martani
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Eva De Clercq
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christian De Geyter
- Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecological Endocrinology (RME), University Hospital, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Vulliemoz
- Centre de Procréation Médicalement Assistée (CPMA), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Bernice S Elger
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tenzin Wangmo
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Sexty RE, van der Pal S, Reijneveld SA, Wolke D, Lüchters G, Bakker L, van Buuren S, Bos AF, Bartmann P. Changes in neonatal morbidity, neonatal care practices, and length of hospital stay of surviving infants born very preterm in the Netherlands in the 1980s and in the 2000s: a comparison analysis with identical characteristics definitions. BMC Pediatr 2023; 23:554. [PMID: 37925410 PMCID: PMC10625206 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-023-04354-x] [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: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study evaluates changes in the neonatal morbidity, the neonatal care practices, and the length of hospital stay of surviving very preterm (VP) infants born in the Netherlands in the 1980s and in the 2000s; a period over which historical improvements were introduced into neonatal care. We, herein, also study whether these changes in neonatal morbidity, neonatal care practices and length of hospital stay are associated with sociodemographic, prenatal, and infant characteristics. METHODS Two community-based cohorts from 1983 (POPS) and 2002-03 (LOLLIPOP) have provided the perinatal data for our study. The analysis enrolled 1,228 participants born VP (before the 32nd week of gestation) and surviving to 2 years of age without any severe congenital malformation. A rigorous harmonisation protocol ensured a precise comparison of the cohorts by using identical definitions of the perinatal characteristics. RESULTS In 2003, mothers were older when giving birth, had higher multiple birth rates, and significantly more parents had received higher education. In 2003, less VP infants had severe intraventricular haemorrhage and sepsis and relatively more received continuous positive airway pressure, mechanical ventilation and caffeine therapy than in 1983. Antenatal corticosteroids and surfactant therapy were provided only in 2003. The length of the stay in the neonatal intensive care unit and in hospital had decreased in 2003 by 22 and 11 days, respectively. Differences persisted after adjustment for sociodemographic, prenatal, and infant characteristics. CONCLUSIONS Neonatal morbidities of the surviving VP infants in this study have not increased, and exhibit improvements for various characteristics in two cohorts born 20 years apart with comparable gestational age and birth weight. Our data suggest that the improvements found are associated with more advanced therapeutic approaches and new national protocols in place, and less so with sociodemographic changes. This analysis provides a basis for further comparative analyses of the health and the development of VP children, particularly with regard to long-term outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Réka E Sexty
- Department of Psychology, Health Psychology Unit, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
- University Hospital Bonn, Children's Hospital, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Sijmen A Reijneveld
- Department of Health Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Dieter Wolke
- Department of Psychology, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Guido Lüchters
- Centre for Development Research (ZEF), Biostatistics, Bonn, Germany
| | | | | | - Arend F Bos
- Department of Paediatrics, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Peter Bartmann
- University Hospital Bonn, Children's Hospital, Bonn, Germany.
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Tan PL, Pan J, Xia X. Does information on age-related fertility decline and fertility policies affect university students' family and career expectations? Evidence from a randomized controlled trial. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0287526. [PMID: 37910460 PMCID: PMC10619829 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287526] [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: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Past research shows that young adults have poor knowledge of age-related fertility decline and that the provision of information can improve fertility knowledge. We provide university students with information on age-related fertility and fertility-related policies and investigate whether the provision of such information affects their family formation and career expectations. METHODS A three-armed randomized controlled trial was conducted online in Singapore between September and October 2021. A total of 1000 undergraduate students were recruited through campus advertisements to complete a 30- to 45-minute online survey, which randomly exposed participants to one of three informational brochures on age-related fertility decline, fertility policies, or diabetes (control group). Participants answered questions on family formation and career expectations both before and after the information intervention. Analysis of covariance was used to assess the effects of the information intervention. RESULTS Exposure to age-related fertility information resulted in significant reductions in the ideal age at first childbirth, significant increases in the expected probability of marriage before age 30, and (among female participants) significant increases in the expected likelihood of undergoing social egg-freezing. No difference existed in child-number ideals, educational aspirations, and income expectations between groups after exposure. No difference existed between the fertility policy information group and the control group after exposure in any of the outcomes of interest. CONCLUSIONS Information on age-related fertility decline brought forward university students' expected timing of childbearing and marriage without reducing their educational and career expectations. The provision of fertility information at early ages, such as during university, can help correct widespread inaccurate beliefs about fertility and promote realistic family formation planning without adversely affecting educational and career goals. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poh Lin Tan
- Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jessica Pan
- Department of Economics, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xing Xia
- Division of Social Sciences, Yale-NUS College, Singapore, Singapore
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Deshpande S, Patel KD, Parulkar T, Mahabalesh K, Madhusudhan P, Madhusudhan DK, Thimmapuram J. Effect of Heartfulness meditation based integrative therapy on infertility outcomes: A retrospective case series evaluation. J Ayurveda Integr Med 2023; 14:100793. [PMID: 37797350 PMCID: PMC10562913 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaim.2023.100793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Indian context, infertility is often a silent struggle. Despite the high prevalence of infertility in the country, the majority of couples do not share their struggles with family or friends due to social stigma, thus increasing their psychological vulnerability. Heartfulness meditation has shown to decrease stress, anxiety, loneliness and improve sleep along with quality of life. OBJECTIVES The current retrospective series evaluated the effectiveness of Heartfulness-based integrative therapy on infertility outcomes. METHODS The program consisted of a 5- day onsite lifestyle modification workshop and online follow up meditation sessions. RESULTS 54 couples with infertility participated in the program with a mean age of 30.74 years (SD 5.04) for females and 34.03 years (SD 4.54) for males. 15 couples presented with male infertility, 16 couples presented with female infertility and in 5 couples both partners had infertility problems. Further, 18 couples had unexplained infertility. 24 couples conceived with 18 natural conceptions, five via assisted reproductive technology and one spontaneous abortion. CONCLUSION The program was beneficial in the cohort who utilized it as prescribed resulting in conception of 24 out of 54 couples. Future research investigating the causal relationship of Heartfulness meditation on fertility outcomes in a randomized control study could solidify this treatment method to be used independently or as an adjuvant therapy with assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Divya K Madhusudhan
- GCSRT, Department of Postgraduate Medical Education, Harvard Medical School, USA
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Magee B, Smith KR. Infertility clinics and acupuncture: a qualitative web-based study. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:2367-2373. [PMID: 37526808 PMCID: PMC10504127 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02898-6] [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: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing demand for fertility treatments has led to the rise of private clinics offering complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatments. The most frequently offered CAM infertility treatment is acupuncture. However, there is no good evidence to support the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating infertility. This study evaluates the scope of information provided by CAM fertility clinics in the UK. A content analysis was conducted on 200 websites of CAM fertility clinics in the UK that offer acupuncture as a treatment for infertility. Of the 48 clinics that met the eligibility criteria, the majority of the websites did not provide sufficient information on the efficacy, risks and success rates of acupuncture for infertility. This has the potential to infringe on patient autonomy, provide false hope and reduce the chances of pregnancy ever being achieved as fertility declines during the time course of ineffective acupuncture treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany Magee
- Division of Health Science, School of Applied Sciences, Abertay University, Dundee, DD1 1HG, UK
| | - Kevin Richard Smith
- Division of Health Science, School of Applied Sciences, Abertay University, Dundee, DD1 1HG, UK.
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Ito J, Iwata H. Age-related advanced glycation end-product accumulation impairs mitochondrial regulation after vitrification†. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:271-281. [PMID: 37399120 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitrification is an important assisted reproductive technology, although it induces mitochondrial dysfunction in embryos. Herein, we aimed to investigate whether age-associated accumulation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) in oocytes impairs the recovery of embryos from cryopreservation-induced mitochondrial dysfunction/damage. Mouse eight-cell stage embryos developed in vitro were vitrified and warmed and incubated up to the blastocyst stage. AGE levels in oocytes were higher in both aged mice and AGE accumulation mouse models (MGO-mice) than those in young and control mice. In addition, the level of SIRT1 upregulation was lower for embryos of aged and MGO-mice than that for embryos of young and control mice. The highest mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content was detected in blastocysts derived from vitrified embryos of aged and MGO-mice. The spent culture medium of blastocysts derived from both aged and MGO-mice contained higher mtDNA content than that of the blastocysts derived from young and control mice. EX527 increased mtDNA content in the spent culture medium of vitrified embryos derived from young mice. In addition, p62 aggregate levels were higher in vitrified embryos of control mice than those in vitrified embryos of MGO-mice. The SIRT1 activator, resveratrol, increased p62 aggregation levels in vitrified embryos derived from young and aged mice, whereas vitrification did not affect p62 aggregation levels in embryos from aged mice. Therefore, age-associated AGE accumulation induces decreased responsive SIRT1 upregulation following vitrified-warmed treatment and impairs mitochondrial quality control activity in vitrified embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Ito
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Atsugi, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Hisataka Iwata
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Atsugi, Kanagawa, Japan
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Génard-Walton M, Warembourg C, Duros S, Ropert-Bouchet M, Lefebvre T, Guivarc'h-Levêque A, Le Martelot MT, Jacquemin B, Cordier S, Costet N, Multigner L, Garlantézec R. Heavy metals and diminished ovarian reserve: single-exposure and mixture analyses amongst women consulting in French fertility centres. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 47:103241. [PMID: 37451971 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Do heavy metals affect the risk of diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) in women of reproductive age? DESIGN A total of 139 cases and 153 controls were included between 2016 and 2020. The participants were aged between 18 and 40 years and attended consultations for couple infertility in one of four fertility centres in western France. Cases of DOR were defined as women with an antral follicle count less than 7, anti-Müllerian hormone levels 1.1 ng/ml or less, or both. Controls were frequency matched on age groups and centres, and were women with normal ovarian reserve evaluations, no malformations and menstrual cycles between 26 and 35 days. Heavy metals (lead, mercury, cadmium and chromium) were measured in whole blood at inclusion. Single-exposure associations were examined with multivariable logistic regressions adjusted on potential confounders. Mixture effects were investigated with quantile g-computation and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR). RESULTS Chromium as a continuous exposure was significantly associated with DOR in unadjusted models (OR 2.07, 95% CI 1.04 to 4.13) but the association was no longer significant when confounders were controlled for (adjusted OR 2.75, 95% CI 0.88 to 8.60). Similarly, a statistically significant association was observed for the unadjusted second tercile of cadmium exposure (OR 1.87, 95% CI 1.06 to 3.30); however, this association was no longer statistically significant after adjustment. None of the other associations tested were statistically significant. Quantile g-computation and BKMR both yielded no significant change of risk of DOR for the mixture of metals, with no evidence of interaction. CONCLUSIONS Weak signals that some heavy metals could be associated with DOR were detected. These findings should be replicated in other studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilien Génard-Walton
- Université de Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France.
| | - Charline Warembourg
- Université de Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Solène Duros
- Reproductive Medicine, CHU Rennes, 35200 Rennes, France
| | | | | | | | | | - Bénédicte Jacquemin
- Université de Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Sylvaine Cordier
- Université de Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Nathalie Costet
- Université de Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Luc Multigner
- Université de Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Ronan Garlantézec
- Université de Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
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Giles J, Cruz M, Cobo A, Vidal C, Requena A, Remohi J, Bosch E. Medroxyprogesterone acetate: an alternative to GnRH-antagonist in oocyte vitrification for social fertility preservation and preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 47:103222. [PMID: 37290978 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Can medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) be used as a pituitary suppressor instead of a gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist during ovarian stimulation in elective fertility preservation and preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) cycles? DESIGN A multicentre, retrospective, observational, cohort study conducted in 11 IVIRMA centres affiliated to private universities. Of a total of 1652 cycles of social fertility preservation, 267 patients were stimulated using a progestin-primed ovarian stimulation protocol (PPOS), and 1385 patients received a GnRH antagonist. In the PGT-A cycles, 5661 treatments were analysed: 635 patients received MPA and 5026 patients received GnRH antagonist. A further 66 fertility preservation and 1299 PGT-A cycles were cancelled. All cycles took place between June 2019 and December 2021. RESULTS In the social fertility preservation cycles, the number of mature oocytes vitrified in MPA was similar to the number of those treated with an antagonist, a trend that was seen regardless of age (≤35 or >35 years). In the PGT-A cycles, no differences were found in number of metaphase II, two pronuclei, number of biopsied embryos (4.4 ± 3.1 versus 4.5 ± 3.1), rate of euploidy (57.9% versus 56.4%) or ongoing pregnancy rate (50.4% versus 47.1%, P = 0.119) between the group receiving MPA versus a GnRH antagonist, whereas the clinical miscarriage rate was higher in the antagonist group (10.4% versus 14.8%, P = 0.019). CONCLUSIONS Administration of PPOS yields similar results to GnRH antagonists in oocytes retrieved, rate of euploid embryos and clinical outcome. Hence, PPOS can be recommended for ovarian stimulation in social fertility preservation and PGT-A cycles, as it allows greater patient comfort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Giles
- Human Reproduction Department, IVI-RMA, Plaza de la Policia Local, 3, PC, Valencia 46015, Spain; IVI Foundation - IIS La Fe. Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, Torre 106 A, 7(a) planta, 46026, Valencia, Spain
| | - Maria Cruz
- IVI Foundation - IIS La Fe. Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, Torre 106 A, 7(a) planta, 46026, Valencia, Spain; IVIRMA Global, Avenida del Talgo 68, Madrid 28023, Spain
| | - Ana Cobo
- IVI Foundation - IIS La Fe. Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, Torre 106 A, 7(a) planta, 46026, Valencia, Spain; Cryopreservation Department, IVI-RMA, Plaza de la Policia Local, 3, PC, Valencia 46015, Spain
| | - Carmen Vidal
- Human Reproduction Department, IVI-RMA, Plaza de la Policia Local, 3, PC, Valencia 46015, Spain; IVI Foundation - IIS La Fe. Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, Torre 106 A, 7(a) planta, 46026, Valencia, Spain
| | - Antonio Requena
- IVI Foundation - IIS La Fe. Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, Torre 106 A, 7(a) planta, 46026, Valencia, Spain; IVIRMA Global, Avenida del Talgo 68, Madrid 28023, Spain
| | - Jose Remohi
- Human Reproduction Department, IVI-RMA, Plaza de la Policia Local, 3, PC, Valencia 46015, Spain; IVI Foundation - IIS La Fe. Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, Torre 106 A, 7(a) planta, 46026, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ernesto Bosch
- Human Reproduction Department, IVI-RMA, Plaza de la Policia Local, 3, PC, Valencia 46015, Spain; IVI Foundation - IIS La Fe. Avenida Fernando Abril Martorell, Torre 106 A, 7(a) planta, 46026, Valencia, Spain
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Łada-Maśko AB, Kaźmierczak M. Dyadic approach to maturity to parenthood: multilevel study on attachment in expectant and non-expectant couples. J Reprod Infant Psychol 2023:1-17. [PMID: 37366347 DOI: 10.1080/02646838.2023.2230592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examined links between attachment styles and maturity to parenthood and its dimensions across different age groups of childless young adult couples. The role of developmental factors (age, assuming parental role) for maturity to parenthood was also investigated. BACKGROUND Relational and individual factors have both been confirmed to be crucial for the transition to parenthood. The concept of maturity to parenthood has been linked to individual values, personality traits, and close relationships. However, the question arises whether maturity to parenthood is related to one of the most crucial concepts in family psychology - attachment. METHOD Three hundred heterosexual young adult couples aged 20-35 years (Mage = 26.20; SD = 3.63) took part. Couples were divided into three groups: 1) 110 couples aged 20-25 (emerging adulthood); 2) 90 couples aged 26-35 (young adulthood); and 3) 100 couples aged 20-35 expecting their first child (third trimester of pregnancy). The main questionnaires used were the Maturity to Parenthood Scale and Close Relationship Experience Scale. RESULTS The results indicated that the more avoidant couples had lower maturity to parenthood. A moderation effect of group (pregnancy) was also observed - the effect of attachment-related avoidance was weaker in expectant couples. Women presented higher overall and behavioural maturity to parenthood than men. Furthermore, higher life satisfaction were associated with greater maturity to parenthood. CONCLUSION Maturity to parenthood is also created in the dyadic context. When related to lower attachment avoidance, it might greatly facilitate transition to parenthood and future parent - child relations.
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Shi Q, Qi K. Developmental origins of health and disease: Impact of paternal nutrition and lifestyle. Pediatr Investig 2023; 7:111-131. [PMID: 37324600 PMCID: PMC10262906 DOI: 10.1002/ped4.12367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Most epidemiological and experimental studies have focused on maternal influences on offspring's health. The impact of maternal undernutrition, overnutrition, hypoxia, and stress is linked to adverse offspring outcomes across a range of systems including cardiometabolic, respiratory, endocrine, and reproduction among others. During the past decade, it has become evident that paternal environmental factors are also linked to the development of diseases in offspring. In this article, we aim to outline the current understanding of the impact of male health and environmental exposure on offspring development, health, and disease and explore the mechanisms underlying the paternal programming of offspring health. The available evidence suggests that poor paternal pre-conceptional nutrition and lifestyle, and advanced age can increase the risk of negative outcomes in offspring, via both direct (genetic/epigenetic) and indirect (maternal uterine environment) effects. Beginning at preconception, and during utero and the early life after birth, cells acquire an epigenetic memory of the early exposure which can be influential across the entire lifespan and program a child's health. Potentially not only mothers but also fathers should be advised that maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle is important to improve offspring health as well as the parental health status. However, the evidence is mostly based on animal studies, and well-designed human studies are urgently needed to verify findings from animal data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoyu Shi
- Laboratory of Nutrition and Development, Key Laboratory of Major Diseases in Children, Ministry of Education, Beijing Pediatric Research Institute, Beijing Children's HospitalCapital Medical University, National Center for Children's HealthBeijingChina
| | - Kemin Qi
- Laboratory of Nutrition and Development, Key Laboratory of Major Diseases in Children, Ministry of Education, Beijing Pediatric Research Institute, Beijing Children's HospitalCapital Medical University, National Center for Children's HealthBeijingChina
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Qu J, Qin L, Guo J, Zhu L, Luo Y, Li C, Xie J, Wang J, Shi C, Huang G, Li J. Near-infrared fluorophore IR-61 improves the quality of oocytes in aged mice via mitochondrial protection. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 162:114571. [PMID: 36989715 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114571] [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: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal aging is associated with a decline in oocyte quality, which leads to the decreased fertility. Therefore, developing approaches to reduce aging-induced deterioration of oocyte quality in older women is important. Near-infrared cell protector-61 (IR-61), a novel heptamethine cyanine dye, has the potential for antioxidant effects. In this study, we found that IR-61 can accumulate in the ovaries and improved ovarian function of naturally aged mice; it also increased the oocyte maturation rate and quality by maintaining the integrity of the spindle/chromosomal structure and reducing the aneuploidy rate. In addition, the embryonic developmental competence of aged oocytes was improved. Finally, RNA-sequencing analysis indicated that IR-61 might perform the beneficial effects on aged oocytes by regulating mitochondrial function, this was confirmed by immunofluorescence analysis of mitochondrial distribution and reactive oxygen species. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that IR-61 supplementation in vivo can increase oocyte quality and protect oocytes from aging-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, and thus could improve the fertility of older women and efficiency of assisted reproductive technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiadan Qu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Lifeng Qin
- College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Jing Guo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Ling Zhu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Yunyao Luo
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Chong Li
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Juan Xie
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiaqiang Wang
- College of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Chunmeng Shi
- Institute of Rocket Force Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China.
| | - Guoning Huang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China.
| | - Jingyu Li
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China; Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China.
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Golub R, Ivkov-Dzigurski A, Simeunović V. Determinants of Fertility Intentions of the Women in Bosnia and Herzegovina-An Example from the Semberija Region. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:bs13050417. [PMID: 37232653 DOI: 10.3390/bs13050417] [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: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this paper was to analyze the socio-demographic determinants of fertility in Bosnia and Herzegovina that affect the number of live births in Semberija. The paper focuses on work and educational statuses, economic crisis and unemployment, and other relevant factors that affect desired family sizes and lead to negative demographic trends. The relevant data were collected through a survey questionnaire filled by a verified sample of 1000 women in their reproductive period (aged 15-49). In order to evaluate the role of each research variable in predicting fertility intentions, the arithmetic mean, frequency of responses in percentage, Pearson's coefficient, and a logistic regression model were used to explore the related factors of fertility behaviors among women in this population. The results showed that employment status, poor housing conditions, and financial support from the state statistically significantly impact future birth trends. Those socio-demographic factors affect desired family sizes and have proven essential to future fertile behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rada Golub
- Faculty of Education, University of East Sarajevo, 71126 Lukavica, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Andjelija Ivkov-Dzigurski
- Department of Geography, Tourism and Hotel Management, Faculty of Sciences, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Vlado Simeunović
- Faculty of Education, University of East Sarajevo, 71126 Lukavica, Bosnia and Herzegovina
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Jochumsen S, Hegaard HK, Rode L, Jørgensen KJ, Nathan NO. Maternal factors associated with labor dystocia in low-risk nulliparous women. A systematic review and meta-analysis. SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTHCARE 2023; 36:100855. [PMID: 37210774 DOI: 10.1016/j.srhc.2023.100855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify maternal factors associated with labor dystocia in low-risk nulliparous women. METHODS MEDLINE, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov, Cochrane, and CINAHL were searched for intervention studies and observational studies published from January 2000 to January 2022. Low-risk was defined as nulliparous women with a singleton, cephalic birth in spontaneous labor at term. Labor dystocia was defined by national or international criteria or treatment. Countries were restricted to OECD members. Two authors independently screened 11,374 titles and abstracts, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Results were presented narratively and by meta-analysis when compatible. RESULTS Seven cohort studies were included. Overall, the certainty of the evidence was moderate. Three studies found that higher maternal age was associated with an increased frequency of labor dystocia (relative risk 1.68; 95% CI 1.43-1.98). Further three studies found that higher maternal BMI was associated with increased frequency of labor dystocia (relative risk 1.20; 95% CI 1.01-1.43). Maternal short stature, fear of childbirth, and high caffeine intake were also associated with an increased frequency of labor dystocia, while maternal physical activity was associated with a decreased frequency. CONCLUSION Maternal factors associated with an increased frequency of labor dystocia were mainly maternal age, physical characteristics, and fear of childbirth. Maternal physical activity was associated with a decreased frequency. Intervention studies targeting these maternal factors would need to be initiated before or early in pregnancy to test the causality of the identified factors and labor dystocia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Jochumsen
- The Interdisciplinary Unit of Women's, Children's and Families' Health, the Juliane Marie Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hanne Kristine Hegaard
- The Interdisciplinary Unit of Women's, Children's and Families' Health, the Juliane Marie Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Line Rode
- Department of Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Valdemar Hansens Vej 13, 2600 Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Karsten Juhl Jørgensen
- Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine Odense (CEBMO) and Cochrane Denmark, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense, Denmark
| | - Nina Olsén Nathan
- The Interdisciplinary Unit of Women's, Children's and Families' Health, the Juliane Marie Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Köksal S, Goisis A. Loneliness during the Pregnancy-Seeking Process: Exploring the Role of Medically Assisted Reproduction. JOURNAL OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL BEHAVIOR 2023; 64:209-227. [PMID: 37144327 DOI: 10.1177/00221465231167847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
This study explores whether undergoing medically assisted reproduction (MAR) is associated with experiencing loneliness and whether this association varies by gender and having a live birth. Using two waves of the Generations and Gender Survey (n = 2,725) from countries in Central and Eastern Europe, we estimate the changes in levels of emotional and social loneliness among pregnancy seekers in heterosexual relationships and test if they vary by the mode of conception while controlling for individual sociodemographic characteristics. Individuals who underwent MAR experienced increased levels of social loneliness compared to individuals who were trying to conceive spontaneously. This association is entirely driven by respondents who did not have a live birth between the two observation periods, while the results did not differ by gender. No differences emerged in emotional loneliness. Our findings suggest that increased social loneliness during the MAR process might be attributable to infertility-related stress and stigma.
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Geronimus AT, Bound J, Hughes L. Trend Toward Older Maternal Age Contributed To Growing Racial Inequity In Very-Low-Birthweight Infants In The US. Health Aff (Millwood) 2023; 42:674-682. [PMID: 37126758 PMCID: PMC10559944 DOI: 10.1377/hlthaff.2022.01066] [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] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
In 2016 the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that for the first time, US women in their thirties were bearing more children than those in their twenties. Analyzing US vital statistics data from the period 1989-2019, we simulated the effect that the distributional shift to older maternal ages at first birth had on health inequity between Black and White infants. Net of maternal socioeconomic indicators, this shift increased the relative odds that White women gave birth to very-low-birthweight (VLBW) infants by 10 percent, versus 19 percent for Black women, largely accounting for the rise in VLBW and the increase in racial inequity seen in the years analyzed. Reductions in infant mortality over the period were dampened by the maternal age shift, especially among Black babies, exacerbating Black-White inequity. Policy implications for promoting reproductive justice include universal tertiary care access, increasing the supply and distribution of maternity care providers, addressing the holistic needs of mothers throughout pregnancy and postpartum, and expanding family support policies. Conceptually, we recommend centering the realities of pregnancy and parenting from the perspective of the populations at highest risk-centering on the margins-and taking into account their implications for maternal weathering (accelerated deterioration due to disparate impacts of structural racism).
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Romanowska J, Nustad HE, Page CM, Denault WRP, Lee Y, Magnus MC, Haftorn KL, Gjerdevik M, Novakovic B, Saffery R, Gjessing HK, Lyle R, Magnus P, Håberg SE, Jugessur A. The X-factor in ART: does the use of assisted reproductive technologies influence DNA methylation on the X chromosome? Hum Genomics 2023; 17:35. [PMID: 37085889 PMCID: PMC10122315 DOI: 10.1186/s40246-023-00484-6] [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: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) may perturb DNA methylation (DNAm) in early embryonic development. Although a handful of epigenome-wide association studies of ART have been published, none have investigated CpGs on the X chromosome. To bridge this knowledge gap, we leveraged one of the largest collections of mother-father-newborn trios of ART and non-ART (natural) conceptions to date to investigate sex-specific DNAm differences on the X chromosome. The discovery cohort consisted of 982 ART and 963 non-ART trios from the Norwegian Mother, Father, and Child Cohort Study (MoBa). To verify our results from the MoBa cohort, we used an external cohort of 149 ART and 58 non-ART neonates from the Australian 'Clinical review of the Health of adults conceived following Assisted Reproductive Technologies' (CHART) study. The Illumina EPIC array was used to measure DNAm in both datasets. In the MoBa cohort, we performed a set of X-chromosome-wide association studies ('XWASs' hereafter) to search for sex-specific DNAm differences between ART and non-ART newborns. We tested several models to investigate the influence of various confounders, including parental DNAm. We also searched for differentially methylated regions (DMRs) and regions of co-methylation flanking the most significant CpGs. Additionally, we ran an analogous model to our main model on the external CHART dataset. RESULTS In the MoBa cohort, we found more differentially methylated CpGs and DMRs in girls than boys. Most of the associations persisted after controlling for parental DNAm and other confounders. Many of the significant CpGs and DMRs were in gene-promoter regions, and several of the genes linked to these CpGs are expressed in tissues relevant for both ART and sex (testis, placenta, and fallopian tube). We found no support for parental DNAm-dependent features as an explanation for the observed associations in the newborns. The most significant CpG in the boys-only analysis was in UBE2DNL, which is expressed in testes but with unknown function. The most significant CpGs in the girls-only analysis were in EIF2S3 and AMOT. These three loci also displayed differential DNAm in the CHART cohort. CONCLUSIONS Genes that co-localized with the significant CpGs and DMRs associated with ART are implicated in several key biological processes (e.g., neurodevelopment) and disorders (e.g., intellectual disability and autism). These connections are particularly compelling in light of previous findings indicating that neurodevelopmental outcomes differ in ART-conceived children compared to those naturally conceived.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Romanowska
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway.
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
| | - Haakon E Nustad
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- DeepInsight, 0154, Oslo, Norway
| | - Christian M Page
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - William R P Denault
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Yunsung Lee
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Maria C Magnus
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kristine L Haftorn
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Miriam Gjerdevik
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Computer Science, Electrical Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Bergen, Norway
| | - Boris Novakovic
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Richard Saffery
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Håkon K Gjessing
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Robert Lyle
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Per Magnus
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Siri E Håberg
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Astanand Jugessur
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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Wang X, Wang L, Xiang W. Mechanisms of ovarian aging in women: a review. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:67. [PMID: 37024976 PMCID: PMC10080932 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01151-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian aging is a natural and physiological aging process characterized by loss of quantity and quality of oocyte or follicular pool. As it is generally accepted that women are born with a finite follicle pool that will go through constant decline without renewing, which, together with decreased oocyte quality, makes a severe situation for women who is of advanced age but desperate for a healthy baby. The aim of our review was to investigate mechanisms leading to ovarian aging by discussing both extra- and intra- ovarian factors and to identify genetic characteristics of ovarian aging. The mechanisms were identified as both extra-ovarian alternation of hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis and intra-ovarian alternation of ovary itself, including telomere, mitochondria, oxidative stress, DNA damage, protein homeostasis, aneuploidy, apoptosis and autophagy. Moreover, here we reviewed related Genome-wide association studies (GWAS studies) from 2009 to 2021 and next generation sequencing (NGS) studies of primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) in order to describe genetic characteristics of ovarian aging. It is reasonable to wish more reliable anti-aging interventions for ovarian aging as the exploration of mechanisms and genetics being progressing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangfei Wang
- Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Lingjuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Wenpei Xiang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Ezoe K, Miki T, Akaike H, Shimazaki K, Takahashi T, Tanimura Y, Amagai A, Sawado A, Mogi M, Kaneko S, Ueno S, Coticchio G, Cimadomo D, Borini A, Rienzi L, Kato K. Maternal age affects pronuclear and chromatin dynamics, morula compaction and cell polarity, and blastulation of human embryos. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:387-399. [PMID: 36644923 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does maternal ageing impact early and late morphokinetic and cellular processes of human blastocyst formation? SUMMARY ANSWER Maternal ageing significantly affects pronuclear size and intra- and extra-nuclear dynamics during fertilization, dysregulates cell polarity during compaction, and reduces blastocoel expansion. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In ART, advanced maternal age (AMA) affects oocyte yield, fertilization, and overall developmental competence. However, with the exception of chromosome segregation errors occurring during oocyte meiosis, the molecular and biochemical mechanisms responsible for AMA-related subfertility and reduced embryo developmental competence remain unclear. In particular, studies reporting morphokinetics and cellular alterations during the fertilization and pre-implantation period in women of AMA remain limited. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A total of 2058 fertilized oocytes were stratified by maternal age according to the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology classification (<35, 35-37, 38-40, 41-42, and >42 years) and retrospectively analysed. AMA effects were assessed in relation to: embryo morphokinetics and morphological alterations; and the presence and distribution of cell polarity markers-Yes-associated protein (YAP) and protein kinase C-ζ (PKC-ζ)-involved in blastocyst morphogenesis. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS A total of 1050 cycles from 1050 patients met the inclusion criteria and were analysed. Microinjected oocytes were assessed using a time-lapse culture system. Immature oocytes at oocyte retrieval and mature oocytes not suitable for time-lapse monitoring, owing to an excess of residual corona cells or inadequate orientation for correct observation, were not analysed. Phenomena relevant to meiotic resumption, pronuclear dynamics, cytoplasmic/cortical modifications, cleavage patterns and embryo quality were annotated and compared among groups. Furthermore, 20 human embryos donated for research by consenting couples were used for immunofluorescence. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Static microscopic observation revealed that blastocyst formation and expansion were impaired in the 41-42 and >42-year groups (P < 0.0001). The morphological grades of the inner cell mass and trophectoderm were poorer in the >42-year group than those in the <35-year group (P = 0.0022 and P < 0.0001, respectively). Time-lapse microscopic observation revealed a reduction in nucleolus precursor body alignment in female pronuclei in the 41-42 and >42-year groups (P = 0.0010). Female pronuclear area decreased and asynchronous pronuclear breakdown increased in the >42-year group (P = 0.0027 and P < 0.0122, respectively). Developmental speed at cleavage stage, incidence of irregularity of first cleavage, type and duration of blastomere movement, and number of multinucleated cells were comparable among age groups. Delayed embryonic compaction and an increased number of extruded blastomeres were observed in the >42-year group (P = 0.0002 and P = 0.0047, respectively). Blastulation and blastocyst expansion were also delayed in the 41-42 and >42-year groups (P < 0.0001 for both). YAP positivity rate in the outer cells of morulae and embryo PKC-ζ immunoflourescence decreased in the >42-year group (P < 0.0001 for both). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION At the cellular level, the investigation was limited to cell polarity markers. Cell components of other developmental pathways should be studied in relation to AMA. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The study indicates that maternal ageing affects the key functions of embryo morphogenesis, irrespective of the well-established influence on the fidelity of oocyte meiosis. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by the participating institutions. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mai Mogi
- Kato Ladies Clinic, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Laura Rienzi
- Clinica Valle Giulia, GeneraLife IVF, Rome, Italy.,Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino, Italy
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Mogi R, Lazzari E, Nisén J, Canudas-Romo V. Cross-sectional average length of life by parity: Country comparisons. POPULATION STUDIES 2023; 77:1-14. [PMID: 35412443 DOI: 10.1080/00324728.2022.2049857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
This study aims to present an alternative measure of fertility-cross-sectional average length of life by parity (CALP)-which: (1) is a period fertility indicator using all available cohort information; (2) captures the dynamics of parity transitions; and (3) links information on fertility quantum and timing together as part of a single phenomenon. Using data from the Human Fertility Database, we calculate CALP for 12 countries in the Global North. Our results show that women spend the longest time at parity zero on average, and in countries where women spend comparatively longer time at parity zero, they spend fewer years at parities one and two. The analysis is extended by decomposing the differences in CALPs between Sweden and the United States, revealing age- and cohort-specific contributions to population-level differences in parity-specific fertility patterns. The decomposition illustrates how high teenage fertility in the United States dominates the differences between these two countries in the time spent at different parities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jessica Nisén
- University of Turku.,Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research
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46
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Obern C, Ekstrand Ragnar M, Tydén T, Larsson M, Niemeyer Hultstrand J, Gemzell-Danielsson K, Sundström-Poromaa I, Makenzius M. Multiple induced abortions - implications for counselling and contraceptive services from a multi-centre cross-sectional study in Sweden. EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2023; 28:119-124. [PMID: 36803482 DOI: 10.1080/13625187.2023.2178257] [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: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate factors associated with multiple induced abortions. MATERIALS AND METHODS A multi-centre cross-sectional survey among abortion-seeking women (n = 623;14-47y) in Sweden, 2021. 'Multiple abortions' was defined as having had ≥2 induced abortions. This group was compared to women with a previous experience of 0-1 induced abortion. Regression analysis was conducted to determine independent factors associated with multiple abortions. RESULTS 67.4% (n = 420) reported previous experience of 0-1 abortion, and 25.8% (n = 161) ≥2 abortions (42 women chose to not respond). Several factors were associated with multiple abortions, but when adjusted in the regression model, the following factors remained; parity ≥1 (OR = 2.96, 95%CI [1.63, 5.39]), low education (OR = 2.40, 95%CI [1.40, 4.09]), tobacco use (OR = 2.50, 95%CI [1.54, 4.07]) and exposure to violence over the last year (OR = 2.37, 95%CI [1.06, 5.29]). More women in the group who had 0-1 abortion (n = 109/420) believed they could not become pregnant at the time of conception, compared to women who had ≥2 abortions (n = 27/161), p=.038. Mood swings, as a contraceptive side-effect, were more often reported among women with ≥2 abortions (n = 65/161), compared to those with 0-1 abortion (n = 131/420), p=.034. CONCLUSION Multiple abortions is associated with vulnerability. Sweden provides high quality and accessible comprehensive abortion care; however, counselling must be improved both to achieve contraceptive adherence and identify and address domestic violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cerisa Obern
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Maria Ekstrand Ragnar
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Tanja Tydén
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Margareta Larsson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Kristina Gemzell-Danielsson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,WHO centre, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Marlene Makenzius
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Health Sciences, Mid Sweden University, Östersund, Sweden
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47
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Temmesen CG, Faber Frandsen T, Svarre-Nielsen H, Petersen KB, Clemensen J, Andersen HLM. Women's reflections on timing of motherhood: a meta-synthesis of qualitative evidence. Reprod Health 2023; 20:30. [PMID: 36755286 PMCID: PMC9909900 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-022-01548-x] [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: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fertility declines with increasing age, especially in women. In recent decades women's age at the birth of their first child has risen markedly in many countries, and an increasing number of women do not establish a family until their late-twenties to mid-thirties. Although there can be various reasons that couples experience fertility problems, advanced maternal age is the most frequent cause for difficulties with achieving pregnancy. OBJECTIVE In this meta-synthesis, we investigated reflections on timing of motherhood in women who have not yet had children. METHODS A systematic literature search of six electronic databases and manual searches of reference lists identified eight qualitative studies published between 2011 and 2018 that focused on women's reflections on timing of motherhood. The studies were assessed with the Critical Assessment Skills Programme (CASP) quality appraisal tool. The results were synthesized using Noblit and Hare's meta-ethnographic approach as described by Malterud. FINDINGS An overall theme of 'Timing of motherhood' and four overlapping subthemes were identified: Making a life-changing decision, The right time, Fear of regret, and Plan B. The dilemmas associated with timing of motherhood leave women of reproductive age balancing their priorities and values against a biological deadline for having children naturally or through assisted reproductive technology. CONCLUSIONS Women of reproductive age are aware that they must make a life-changing decision as to if or when to have children, but they consider having children at 'the right time' to be important. Simultaneously, while some women are reluctant to have children for various reasons, they express fear that waiting too long could result in their regretting not having children later in life. Although women of reproductive age express concern about their ability to achieve pregnancy, they have limited focus on the medical risks associated with postponing motherhood. There is a need to establish preventive health initiatives to support women of reproductive age in their considerations regarding timing of motherhood. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER PROSPERO: CRD42020175151.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Gry Temmesen
- Department of Nutrition, Rehabilitation and Midwifery, University College Absalon, Sdr. Stationsvej 30, 4200, Slagelse, Denmark. .,Clinical Institute, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Tove Faber Frandsen
- grid.10825.3e0000 0001 0728 0170Department of Design and Communication, University of Southern Denmark, Kolding, Denmark
| | - Henriette Svarre-Nielsen
- grid.5254.60000 0001 0674 042XDepartment of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark ,grid.411905.80000 0004 0646 8202Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | | | - Jane Clemensen
- grid.10825.3e0000 0001 0728 0170Department of Children, Hans Christian Andersen Children’s Hospital, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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48
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Access to Ovulation Tests and Strategic Timing of Intercourse in a Low Fertility Context. POPULATION RESEARCH AND POLICY REVIEW 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s11113-023-09769-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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49
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Pang L, Yu W, Lv J, Dou Y, Zhao H, Li S, Guo Y, Chen G, Cui L, Hu J, Zhao Y, Zhao Q, Chen ZJ. Air pollution exposure and ovarian reserve impairment in Shandong province, China: The effects of particulate matter size and exposure window. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 218:115056. [PMID: 36521537 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.115056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lack of evidence exists on whether air pollution exposure may affect ovarian reserve, especially for Chinese women. OBJECTIVES To explore the association between exposure to various air pollutants and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), a predictor of ovarian reserve, over different exposure windows in Shandong Province, China. METHODS We enrolled 18,878 women who had AMH measurements in the Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University during 2010-2019. Daily average concentrations of ambient particulate matter with diameters ≤1 μm/2.5 μm/10 μm (PM1, PM2.5, and PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and ozone (O3) were developed at a spatial resolution of 0.01° × 0.01°, and assigned to the residential addresses. Three exposure windows were considered, i.e., the process from primary to small antral follicle stage (W1), from primary to secondary follicle stage (W2), and from secondary to small antral follicle stage (W3). The air pollution-AMH association was fitted using the multivariable linear mixed effect model with adjustment for potential confounders. Stratified analyses were performed by age group, overweight status, residential region, and educational level. RESULTS The level of AMH changed by -8.8% (95% confidence interval (CI): -12.1%, -5.3%), -2.1% (95% CI: -3.5%, -0.6%), -1.9% (95% CI: -3.3%, -0.5%), and -4.5% (95% CI: -7.1%, -1.9%) per 10 μg/m3 increase in PM1, PM2.5, PM10, and NO2, respectively, during W1. The effect estimates were significant during W2 for PM1, PM2.5 and NO2 while minimal association was observed in W3. Greater vulnerability for certain air pollutants were observed for women who lived in inland areas and were less educated. CONCLUSIONS We found that ovarian reserve was negatively associated with air pollution exposure for women, particularly from the primary to secondary follicle stage. The effect estimate increased by the reduction in the diameter of PMs, which also varied across population sub-groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihong Pang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Wenhao Yu
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Jiale Lv
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Yunde Dou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Han Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Shanshan Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, 3004, Australia
| | - Yuming Guo
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, 3004, Australia
| | - Gongbo Chen
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Linlin Cui
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Jingmei Hu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Yueran Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Qi Zhao
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Department of Epidemiology, IUF-Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, Düsseldorf, 40225, Germany.
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, 200135, China.
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Ntostis P, Swanson G, Kokkali G, Iles D, Huntriss J, Pantou A, Tzetis M, Pantos K, Picton HM, Krawetz SA, Miller D. Trophectoderm non-coding RNAs reflect the higher metabolic and more invasive properties of young maternal age blastocysts. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2023; 69:3-19. [PMID: 36576378 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2022.2153636] [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] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Increasing female age is accompanied by a corresponding fall in her fertility. This decline is influenced by a variety of factors over an individual's life course including background genetics, local environment and diet. Studying both coding and non-coding RNAs of the embryo could aid our understanding of the causes and/or effects of the physiological processes accompanying the decline including the differential expression of sub-cellular biomarkers indicative of various diseases. The current study is a post-hoc analysis of the expression of trophectoderm RNA data derived from a previous high throughput study. Its main aim is to determine the characteristics and potential functionalities that characterize long non-coding RNAs. As reported previously, a maternal age-related component is potentially implicated in implantation success. Trophectoderm samples representing the full range of maternal reproductive ages were considered in relation to embryonic implantation potential, trophectoderm transcriptome dynamics and reproductive maternal age. The long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) biomarkers identified here are consistent with the activities of embryo-endometrial crosstalk, developmental competency and implantation and share common characteristics with markers of neoplasia/cancer invasion. Corresponding genes for expressed lncRNAs were more active in the blastocysts of younger women are associated with metabolic pathways including cholesterol biosynthesis and steroidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Ntostis
- Discovery and Translational Science Department, Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Department of Genetics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Grace Swanson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Georgia Kokkali
- Genesis Athens Clinic, Reproductive Medicine Unit, Athens, Greece
| | - David Iles
- Discovery and Translational Science Department, Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - John Huntriss
- Discovery and Translational Science Department, Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Agni Pantou
- Genesis Athens Clinic, Reproductive Medicine Unit, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Tzetis
- Department of Genetics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Helen M Picton
- Discovery and Translational Science Department, Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Stephen A Krawetz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - David Miller
- Discovery and Translational Science Department, Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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