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van Zundert SKM, van Rossem L, Mirzaian M, Griffioen PH, Willemsen SP, van Schaik RHN, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. Periconceptional Non-medical Maternal Determinants Influence the Tryptophan Metabolism: The Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort (Predict Study). Int J Tryptophan Res 2024; 17:11786469241257816. [PMID: 38873365 PMCID: PMC11171438 DOI: 10.1177/11786469241257816] [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: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The vital role of the maternal tryptophan (TRP) metabolism in maternal health and pregnancy is well established. However, non-medical maternal determinants influencing the TRP metabolism have been poorly investigated. We hypothesise that periconceptional maternal non-medical determinants alter the TRP metabolism, affecting both kynurenine (KP) and serotonin pathway (SP) metabolite concentrations. Therefore, we investigated the influence of non-medical maternal determinants on the TRP metabolism during the periconception period. Methods About 1916 pregnancies were included from the Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort between November 2010 and December 2020. Data on periconceptional non-medical maternal determinants were collected through questionnaires. Serum samples were collected at 8.5 (SD = 1.6) weeks of gestation and TRP, kynurenine (KYN), 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), 5-HT (5-hydroxytryptamine) and 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid (5-HIAA) were determined using validated liquid chromatography (tandem) mass spectrometry. Mixed models were used to determine associations between periconceptional non-medical maternal determinants and these metabolites. Results In total 11 periconceptional non-medical maternal determinants were identified. Protein intake was positively associated with TRP (β = .12, 95% CI = 0.07-0.17), while age, energy intake and body mass index (BMI) (β = -.24, 95% CI = -0.37 to -0.10) were negatively associated with TRP. Age, BMI and total homocysteine were associated with higher KYN, whereas non-western geographical origin was associated with lower KYN (β = -.09, 95% CI = -0.16 to -0.03). Protein intake and total homocysteine (β = .07, 95% CI = 0.03-0.11) had a positive association with 5-HTP, while a negative association was found for energy intake. A non-western geographical origin and drug use were associated with higher 5-HT, and BMI with lower 5-HT (β = -6.32, 95% CI = -10.26 to -2.38). Age was positively associated with 5-HIAA (β = .92, 95% CI = 0.29-1.56), and BMI negatively. Conclusions Periconceptional non-medical maternal determinants, including age, geographical origin, drug use, energy and protein intake, BMI and total homocysteine, influence KP and SP metabolite concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofie KM van Zundert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lenie van Rossem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mina Mirzaian
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pieter H Griffioen
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ron HN van Schaik
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Schenkelaars N, van Rossem L, Willemsen SP, Faas MM, Schoenmakers S, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. The intake of ultra-processed foods and homocysteine levels in women with(out) overweight and obesity: The Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort. Eur J Nutr 2024; 63:1257-1269. [PMID: 38383813 PMCID: PMC11139698 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-024-03334-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Today's diet consists of a substantial proportion of ultra-processed foods (UPF), especially in women with overweight and obesity in the reproductive period. High UPF intake results in an inadequate and unbalanced diet leading to derangements of several metabolic pathways detrimental to pregnancy and birth outcomes. Therefore, we aim to investigate whether UPF intake in the periconceptional period affects total homocysteine plasma levels (tHcy). METHODS 1532 participants were included from the prospective Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort. UPF intake was calculated using Food Frequency Questionnaires including items classified as 4 in the Nova classification, and tHcy was measured by using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry system, with an interassay coefficient of variation of < 5.5%. Multivariable linear regression modeling was used and adjusted for covariates and significant interaction terms. RESULTS Women with overweight or obesity showed significantly higher percentage of UPF intake (respectively, 50.3 and 51.3%) and higher tHcy (respectively, 6.6 and 6.3 µmol/L, Kruskal-Wallis test; respectively, p < 0.001 and p = 0.04) compared to women with normal BMI (UPF intake: 46.8%, tHcy: 6.1 µmol/L). A 10% higher intake of UPF was associated with an increase in tHcy (adjusted: β = 1.31, 95% CI = 0.38-2.23). Analysis stratified for BMI classification showed comparable associations in normal weight participants (adjusted: β = 1.07, 95% CI = 0.06-2.07); however, no significant association in participants with overweight (adjusted: β = 0.06, 95% CI = - 0.95-1.07) and obesity (adjusted: β = 1.70, 95% CI = - 0.52-3.92) was shown. CONCLUSION This study showed that a higher intake of UPF is associated with increased tHcy. Better knowledge and awareness of the nutritional quality of the diet in the periconceptional period may contribute to 1-CM and subsequently improve pregnancy course and outcome. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER AND DATE NTR4356, November 2010.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Schenkelaars
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lenie van Rossem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marijke M Faas
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen and University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Sam Schoenmakers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Régine P M Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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van Zundert SKM, van Egmond NCM, van Rossem L, Willemsen SP, Griffioen PH, van Schaik RHN, Mirzaian M, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. First trimester maternal tryptophan metabolism and embryonic and fetal growth: the Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort (Predict Study). Hum Reprod 2024; 39:912-922. [PMID: 38498837 PMCID: PMC11063566 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae046] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the association between first trimester maternal tryptophan (TRP) metabolites and embryonic and fetal growth? SUMMARY ANSWER Higher 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) concentrations are associated with reduced embryonic growth and fetal growth and with an increased risk of small-for-gestational age (SGA), while higher kynurenine (KYN) concentrations are associated with a reduced risk of SGA. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The maternal TRP metabolism is involved in many critical processes for embryonic and fetal growth, including immune modulation and regulation of vascular tone. Disturbances in TRP metabolism are associated with adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This study was embedded within the Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort (Predict Study), an ongoing prospective observational cohort conducted at a tertiary hospital from November 2010 onwards. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS A total of 1115 women were included before 11 weeks of gestation between November 2010 and December 2020. Maternal serum samples were collected between 7 and 11 weeks of gestation, and TRP metabolites (TRP, KYN, 5-HTP, 5-hydroxytryptamine, and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid) were determined using a validated liquid chromatography (tandem) mass spectrometry method. Serial 3D ultrasound scans were performed at 7, 9, and 11 weeks of gestation to accurately assess features of embryonic growth, including crown-rump length (CRL) and embryonic volume (EV) offline using virtual reality systems. Fetal growth parameters were retrieved from medical records and standardized according to Dutch reference curves. Mixed models were used to assess associations between maternal TRP metabolites and CRL and EV trajectories. Linear and logistic regression models were utilized to investigate associations with estimated fetal weight (EFW) and birthweight, and with SGA, respectively. All analyses were adjusted for potential confounders. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Maternal 5-HTP concentrations and the maternal 5-HTP/TRP ratio were inversely associated with embryonic growth (5-HTP, √CRL: β = -0.015, 95% CI = -0.028 to -0.001; 5-HTP 3√EV: β = -0.009, 95% CI = -0.016 to -0.003). An increased maternal 5-HTP/TRP ratio was also associated with lower EFW and birthweight, and with an increased risk of SGA (odds ratio (OR) = 1.006, 95% CI = 1.00-1.013). In contrast, higher maternal KYN concentrations were associated with a reduced risk of SGA in the unadjusted models (OR = 0.548, 95% CI = 0.320-0.921). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Residual confounding cannot be ruled out because of the observational design of this study. Moreover, this study was conducted in a single tertiary hospital, which assures high internal validity but may limit external validity. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The novel finding that maternal 5-HTP concentrations are associated with a smaller embryo and fetus implies that disturbances of the maternal serotonin pathway in the first trimester of pregnancy are potentially involved in the pathophysiology of fetal growth restriction. The association between higher maternal KYN concentrations and a reduced risk of SGA substantiate the evidence that the KYN pathway has an important role in fetal growth. More research is needed to delve deeper into the potential role of the maternal TRP metabolism during the periconception period and pregnancy outcome for mother and offspring. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was funded by the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Department of Clinical Chemistry of the Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands. The authors have no competing interests to disclose. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofie K M van Zundert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Nina C M van Egmond
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lenie van Rossem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Pieter H Griffioen
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ron H N van Schaik
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Mina Mirzaian
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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De Vos ES, Mulders AGMGJ, Koning AHJ, Willemsen SP, Rousian M, Van Rijn BB, Steegers EAP, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. Morphologic development of the first-trimester utero-placental vasculature is positively associated with embryonic and fetal growth: the Rotterdam Periconception Cohort. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:923-935. [PMID: 38503486 PMCID: PMC11063559 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae056] [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: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is morphologic development of the first-trimester utero-placental vasculature associated with embryonic growth and development, fetal growth, and birth weight percentiles? SUMMARY ANSWER Using the utero-placental vascular skeleton (uPVS) as a new imaging marker, this study reveals morphologic development of the first-trimester utero-placental vasculature is positively associated with embryonic growth and development, fetal growth, and birth weight percentiles. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY First-trimester development of the utero-placental vasculature is associated with placental function, which subsequently impacts embryonic and fetal ability to reach their full growth potential. The attribution of morphologic variations in the utero-placental vascular development, including the vascular structure and branching density, on prenatal growth remains unknown. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This study was conducted in the VIRTUAL Placental study, a subcohort of 214 ongoing pregnancies, embedded in the prospective observational Rotterdam Periconception Cohort (Predict study). Women were included before 10 weeks gestational age (GA) at a tertiary referral hospital in The Netherlands between January 2017 and March 2018. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS We obtained three-dimensional power Doppler volumes of the gestational sac including the embryo and the placenta at 7, 9, and 11 weeks of gestation. Virtual Reality-based segmentation and a recently developed skeletonization algorithm were applied to the power Doppler volumes to generate the uPVS and to measure utero-placental vascular volume (uPVV). Absolute vascular morphology was quantified by assigning a morphologic characteristic to each voxel in the uPVS (i.e. end-, bifurcation-crossing-, or vessel point). Additionally, total vascular length (mm) was calculated. The ratios of the uPVS characteristics to the uPVV were calculated to determine the density of vascular branching. Embryonic growth was estimated by crown-rump length and embryonic volume. Embryonic development was estimated by Carnegie stages. Fetal growth was measured by estimated fetal weight in the second and third trimester and birth weight percentiles. Linear mixed models were used to estimate trajectories of longitudinal measurements. Linear regression analysis with adjustments for confounders was used to evaluate associations between trajectories of the uPVS and prenatal growth. Groups were stratified for conception method (natural/IVF-ICSI conceptions), fetal sex (male/female), and the occurrence of placenta-related complications (yes/no). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Increased absolute vascular morphologic development, estimated by positive random intercepts of the uPVS characteristics, is associated with increased embryonic growth, reflected by crown-rump length (endpoints β = 0.017, 95% CI [0.009; 0.025], bifurcation points β = 0.012, 95% CI [0.006; 0.018], crossing points β = 0.017, 95% CI [0.008; 0.025], vessel points β = 0.01, 95% CI [0.002; 0.008], and total vascular length β = 0.007, 95% CI [0.003; 0.010], and similarly with embryonic volume and Carnegie stage, all P-values ≤ 0.01. Density of vascular branching was negatively associated with estimated fetal weight in the third trimester (endpoints: uPVV β = -94.972, 95% CI [-185.245; -3.698], bifurcation points: uPVV β = -192.601 95% CI [-360.532; -24.670]) and birth weight percentiles (endpoints: uPVV β = -20.727, 95% CI [-32.771; -8.683], bifurcation points: uPVV β -51.097 95% CI [-72.257; -29.937], and crossing points: uPVV β = -48.604 95% CI [-74.246; -22.961])), all P-values < 0.05. After stratification, the associations were observed in natural conceptions specifically. LIMITATION, REASONS FOR CAUTION Although the results of this prospective observational study clearly demonstrate associations between first-trimester utero-placental vascular morphologic development and prenatal growth, further research is required before we can draw firm conclusions about a causal relationship. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our findings support the hypothesis that morphologic variations in utero-placental vascular development play a role in the vascular mechanisms involved in embryonic and fetal growth and development. Application of the uPVS could benefit our understanding of the pathophysiology underlying placenta-related complications. Future research should focus on the clinical applicability of the uPVS as an imaging marker for the early detection of fetal growth restriction. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This research was funded by the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands. There are no conflicts of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Registered at the Dutch Trial Register (NTR6854).
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Affiliation(s)
- E S De Vos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A G M G J Mulders
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A H J Koning
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M Rousian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - B B Van Rijn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E A P Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - R P M Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Van Vliet MM, Schoenmakers S, Haug B, Willemsen S, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. Paternal age and first trimester placental size and growth: The Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort. Placenta 2024; 150:1-7. [PMID: 38537411 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite a noticeable trend of delayed fatherhood, less is known about the impact of paternal age on the paternally programmed placenta. We hypothesize that paternal aging affects seminal quality and as such induces ageing-related epigenetic alterations that influence placental growth. Our main aim is to investigate associations between paternal age and first trimester (vascular) placental growth trajectories. METHODS Pregnant women were enrolled before 10 weeks of gestation in the Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort (Predict study). Placental volumes (PV) and utero-placental vascular volumes (uPVV) were measured at 7, 9, and 11 weeks gestation. Associations between paternal age and PV and uPVV were investigated using linear mixed models and the maximum likelihood ratio test to test non-linear relationships. We adjusted for gestational age, fetal sex, parental smoking and maternal age, BMI, education and parity, and stratified for conception mode. RESULTS From 808 pregnancies we obtained 1313 PV and from 183 pregnancies 345 uPVV measurements. We show no associations between paternal age and PV (p = 0.934) and uPVV (p = 0.489) in our total population or in pregnancies conceived naturally (PV p = 0.166; uPVV p = 0.446) and after IVF/ICSI (PV p = 0.909; uPVV p = 0.749). For example, PV was 0.9% smaller (95% CI -5.7%-7.1%) in fathers aged 40 compared to 30 years old at 9 weeks gestation in the total study population. DISCUSSION We are not demonstrating a significant impact of paternal age on first trimester placental growth in a tertiary care population. Given the trend of increasing paternal age, our study should be repeated in the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Van Vliet
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Developmental Biology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - S Schoenmakers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - B Haug
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - S Willemsen
- Department Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - R P M Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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de Vos ES, van der Meeren LE, Koning AHJ, Nikkels PGJ, Steegers EAP, Steegers-Theunissen RPM, Mulders AGMGJ. First-trimester 3D power Doppler imaging markers of utero-placental vascular development are associated with placental weight and diameter at birth: The Rotterdam Periconception Cohort. Placenta 2024; 148:44-52. [PMID: 38367314 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Early utero-placental vascular development impacts placental development and function throughout pregnancy. We investigated whether impaired first-trimester utero-placental vascular development is associated with pathologic features of the postpartum placenta. METHODS In this prospective observational study of 65 ongoing pregnancies, we obtained three-dimensional power Doppler ultrasounds of the placenta at 7, 9 and 11 weeks of gestation. We applied VOCAL software to measure placental volume (PV), virtual reality based segmentation to measure utero-placental vascular volume (uPVV) and applied a skeletonization algorithm to generate the utero-placental vascular skeleton (uPVS). Vascular morphology was quantified by assigning a morphologic characteristic to each voxel in the uPVS (i.e. end-, bifurcation-, crossing- or vessel point). Following delivery, placentas were measured and histologically examined according to the Amsterdam criteria to assess maternal vascular malperfusion (MVM). We used linear mixed models to estimate trajectories of PV, uPVV and uPVS development. Multivariable linear regression analysis with adjustments for confounders was used to evaluate associations between PV, uPVV and uPVS development and features of the postpartum placenta. RESULTS We observed no associations between first-trimester PV development and measurements of the postpartum placenta. Increased first-trimester utero-placental vascular development, reflected by uPVV (β = 0.25 [0.01; 0.48]), uPVS end points (β = 0.25 [0.01; 0.48]), bifurcation points (β = 0.22 [0.05; 0.37]), crossing points (β = 0.29 [0.07; 0.52]) and vessel points (β = 0.09 [0.02; 0.17]) was positively associated with the postpartum placental diameter. uPVV was positively associated with postpartum placental weight. No associations were found with MVM. DISCUSSION Development of the first-trimester utero-placental vasculature is associated with postpartum placental size, whereas placental tissue development contributes to a lesser extent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eline S de Vos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lotte E van der Meeren
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Anton H J Koning
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Peter G J Nikkels
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center Utrecht, H04.312, PO Box 85500, 3505 GA, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Eric A P Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Régine P M Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Annemarie G M G J Mulders
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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Snoek KM, van de Woestijne N, Ritfeld VEEG, Klaassen RA, Versendaal H, Galjaard S, Willemsen SP, Laven JSE, Steegers-Theunissen RPM, Schoenmakers S. Preconception maternal gastric bypass surgery and the impact on fetal growth parameters. Surg Obes Relat Dis 2024; 20:128-137. [PMID: 37805294 DOI: 10.1016/j.soard.2023.08.015] [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: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bariatric surgery is increasingly performed in women of reproductive age. As bariatric surgery will result in postoperative rapid catabolic weight loss which potentially leads to fetal malnutrition and directly related impaired intra-uterine growth, it is advised to postpone pregnancy for at least 12-18 months after surgery. OBJECTIVES To investigate the consequences of preconception gastric bypass surgery (pGB) on fetal growth parameters and maternal pregnancy outcome. SETTING Maasstad Hospital, The Netherlands, general hospital and Erasmus Medical Center, The Netherlands, university hospital. METHODS We included 97 pGB pregnancies (Maasstad hospital) and 440 non-bariatric pregnancies (Rotterdam Periconception cohort, Erasmus Medical Center). Longitudinal second and third trimester fetal growth parameters (head circumference, biparietal diameter, femur length, abdominal circumference, estimated fetal weight) were analyzed using linear mixed models, adjusting for covariates and possible confounders. Fetal growth and birthweight in pGB pregnancies were compared to non-bariatric pregnancies and Dutch reference curves. Maternal pregnancy outcome in the pGB group was compared to non-bariatric pregnancies. RESULTS All fetal growth parameters of pGB pregnancies were significantly decreased at 20 weeks' gestation (P < .001) and throughout the remaining part of pregnancy (P < .05) compared with non-bariatric pregnancies (crude and adjusted models). In our cohort, gestational weight gain was not significantly associated with birthweight corrected for gestational age. Birthweight was significantly lower in pGB pregnancies (estimate -241 grams [95% CI, -342.7 to -140.0]) with a 2-fold increased risk of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) (adjusted odds ratio 2.053 [95% CI, 1.058 to 3.872]). Compared to the non-bariatric pregnancies, we found no significant differences in maternal pregnancy outcome. CONCLUSIONS PGB is associated with overall reduced fetal growth trajectories and a 2-fold increased risk of SGA, without significant adverse consequences for maternal pregnancy outcome. We recommend close monitoring of fetal growth after pGB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katinka M Snoek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nadia van de Woestijne
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - René A Klaassen
- Department of Surgery, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hans Versendaal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sander Galjaard
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joop S E Laven
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Sam Schoenmakers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Williamson AA, Amin RS, Meltzer LJ, Laposky A, Fiks AG, Tapia IE. Defining and Promoting Pediatric Pulmonary Health: Understanding Sleep and Ventilatory Health. Pediatrics 2023; 152:e2023062292D. [PMID: 37656027 PMCID: PMC10484307 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2023-062292d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Healthy sleep and optimal ventilatory control begin in early development and are crucial for positive child outcomes. This paper summarizes information presented at the Sleep and Ventilatory Control sessions of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood-sponsored 2021 Defining and Promoting Pediatric Pulmonary Health workshop. These sessions focused on pediatric sleep health, screening for sleep health and sleep disorders in primary care using the electronic health record, infant sleep and ventilatory control, and home sleep testing. Throughout this summary, we discuss key gaps in and barriers to promoting sleep and ventilatory health that were identified during the workshop sessions. We conclude with strategies to address these gaps and barriers and directions for future multidisciplinary research, patient care, and training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariel A. Williamson
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Raouf S. Amin
- Cincinnati Children’s Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | | | - Aaron Laposky
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Alexander G. Fiks
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Ignacio E. Tapia
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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9
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van Zundert SKM, Griffioen PH, van Rossem L, Willemsen SP, de Rijke YB, van Schaik RHN, Steegers-Theunissen RPM, Mirzaian M. Simultaneous quantification of tryptophan metabolites by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry during early human pregnancy. Clin Chem Lab Med 2023; 61:442-451. [PMID: 36458576 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2022-0790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In this study we describe the development and validation of a liquid chromatography mass spectrometry method (LC-MS/MS) to quantify five tryptophan (TRP) metabolites within the kynurenine- and serotonin pathway and apply the method to serum samples of women in the first trimester of pregnancy. A secondary aim was to investigate the correlation between body mass index (BMI) and the five analytes. METHODS A LC-MS/MS was developed for the analysis of TRP, kynurenine (KYN), 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), and 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid (5-HIAA). Serum samples (n=374) were analyzed of pregnant women (median gestational age: 8 ± 2 weeks) participating in a subcohort of the Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort (Predict study). RESULTS The LC-MS/MS method provided satisfactory separation of the five analytes (7 min run). For all analytes R2 was >0.995. Within- and between-run accuracies were 72-97% and 79-104%, and the precisions were all <15% except for the between-run precisions of the low QC-samples of 5-HTP and 5-HT (both 16%). Analyte concentrations were determined in serum samples of pregnant women (median (IQR)); TRP (µmol/L): 57.5 (13.4), KYN (µmol/L): 1.4 (0.4), 5-HTP (nmol/L): 4.1 (1.2), 5-HT (nmol/L): 615 (323.1), and 5-HIAA (nmol/L): 39.9 (17.0). BMI was negatively correlated with TRP, 5-HTP, and 5-HIAA (TRP: r=-0.18, p<0.001; 5-HTP: r=-0.13, p=0.02; natural log of 5-HIAA: r=-0.11, p=0.04), and positively with KYN (r=0.11, p=0.04). CONCLUSIONS The LC-MS/MS method is able to accurately quantify kynurenine- and serotonin pathway metabolites in pregnant women, providing an opportunity to investigate the role of the TRP metabolism in the (patho)physiology of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofie K M van Zundert
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Pieter H Griffioen
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lenie van Rossem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Yolanda B de Rijke
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ron H N van Schaik
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Mina Mirzaian
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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10
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Leung T, Schoenmakers S, Willemsen S, van Rossem L, Dinnyes A, Rousian M, Steegers-Theunissen RP. The Effect of an eHealth Coaching Program (Smarter Pregnancy) on Attitudes and Practices Toward Periconception Lifestyle Behaviors in Women Attempting Pregnancy: Prospective Study. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e39321. [PMID: 36719733 PMCID: PMC9929732 DOI: 10.2196/39321] [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: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lifestyle behaviors during the periconception period contribute to achievement of a successful pregnancy. Assessment of attitudes and practices toward these modifiable behaviors can aid in identifying gaps in unhealthy lifestyle behaviors with impact on intervention effectiveness. OBJECTIVE This study investigates the effectiveness of coaching by the eHealth program Smarter Pregnancy during the periconception period on improvement of attitudes and practices toward fruit and vegetable intake and smoking in women attempting pregnancy through assisted reproductive technology (ART) or natural conception. METHODS Women attempting pregnancy through ART (n=1060) or natural conception (n=631) were selected during the periconception period. The intervention groups, conceived through ART or naturally, received Smarter Pregnancy coaching for 24 weeks, whereas the control group conceived through ART and did not receive coaching. Attitudes and practices at baseline and follow-up periods were obtained from self-administered online questionnaire provided by the program. Attitudes were assessed in women with unhealthy behaviors as their intention to increase their fruit and vegetable intake and to quit smoking using a yes/no question. Outcomes on practices, suggesting effectiveness, included daily fruit (pieces) and vegetable (grams) intake, and if women smoked (yes/no). Changes in attitudes and practices were compared at 12 and 24 weeks with baseline between the ART intervention and ART control groups, and within the intervention groups between ART and natural conception. Changes in practices at 12 and 24 weeks were also compared with baseline between women with negative attitude and positive attitude within the intervention groups: ART and natural conception. Analysis was performed using linear and logistic regression models adjusted for maternal confounders and baseline attitudes and practices. RESULTS The ART intervention group showed higher vegetable intake and lower odds for negative attitudes toward vegetable intake after 12 weeks (βadj=25.72 g, P<.001; adjusted odds ratio [ORadj] 0.24, P<.001) and 24 weeks of coaching (βadj=23.84 g, P<.001; ORadj 0.28, P<.001) compared with ART controls. No statistically significant effect was observed on attitudes and practices toward fruit intake (12 weeks: P=.16 and .08, respectively; 24 weeks: P=.16 and .08, respectively) and smoking behavior (12 weeks: P=.87; 24 weeks: P=.92). No difference was observed for the studied attitudes and practices between the ART intervention and natural conception intervention groups. Women with persistent negative attitude toward fruit and vegetable intake at week 12 showed lower fruit and vegetable intake at week 24 compared with women with positive attitude (βadj=-.49, P<.001; βadj=-30.07, P<.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS The eHealth Smarter Pregnancy program may improve vegetable intake-related attitudes and practices in women undergoing ART treatment. Women with no intention to increase fruit and vegetable intake had less improvement in their intakes. Despite small changes, this study demonstrates again that Smarter Pregnancy can be used to improve vegetable intake, which can complemented by blended care that combines face-to-face and online care to also improve fruit intake and smoking behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sam Schoenmakers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sten Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Lenie van Rossem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Andras Dinnyes
- BioTalentum Ltd, Godollo, Hungary.,Department of Physiology and Animal Health, Institute of Physiology and Animal Nutrition, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Godollo, Hungary
| | - Melek Rousian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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11
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van Zundert S, van der Padt S, Willemsen S, Rousian M, Mirzaian M, van Schaik R, Steegers-Theunissen R, van Rossem L. Periconceptional Maternal Protein Intake from Animal and Plant Sources and the Impact on Early and Late Prenatal Growth and Birthweight: The Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14245309. [PMID: 36558467 PMCID: PMC9785913 DOI: 10.3390/nu14245309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Plant-based diets continue to rise in popularity, including among women of reproductive age, while consequences for pregnancy outcomes have hardly been studied. During pregnancy, maternal diet is the only source of proteins for the developing fetus. Hence, we investigated the effects of periconceptional maternal animal and plant protein intake on prenatal growth and birthweight. 501 pregnancies were included from the prospective Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort. Embryonic growth was depicted by crown-rump length (CRL) and embryonic volume (EV) at 7, 9 and 11 weeks using 3D ultrasound scans. Estimated fetal weight (EFW) at 20 weeks and birthweight were retrieved from medical records and standardized. Multivariable mixed models were used for CRL and EV trajectories, and linear regression for EFW and birthweight. A 10 g/day higher maternal animal protein intake was positively associated with increased embryonic growth (CRL: β = 0.023 √mm, p = 0.052; EV: β = 0.015 ∛cm, p = 0.012). A positive association, albeit non-significant, was found between maternal animal protein intake and EFW, and birthweight. No clear associations emerged between maternal plant protein intake and prenatal growth and birthweight, with effect estimates close to zero. In conclusion, maternal animal protein intake during the periconception period was positively associated with early and late prenatal growth and birthweight, while no associations were found between maternal plant protein intake and prenatal growth and birthweight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofie van Zundert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Simone van der Padt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sten Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Melek Rousian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mina Mirzaian
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ron van Schaik
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Régine Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Correspondence:
| | - Lenie van Rossem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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12
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de Vos ES, Koning AHJ, Steegers-Theunissen RPM, Willemsen SP, van Rijn BB, Steegers EAP, Mulders AGMGJ. Assessment of first-trimester utero-placental vascular morphology by 3D power Doppler ultrasound image analysis using a skeletonization algorithm: the Rotterdam Periconception Cohort. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:2532-2545. [PMID: 36125007 PMCID: PMC9627684 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac202] [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: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can three-dimensional (3D) Power Doppler (PD) ultrasound and a skeletonization algorithm be used to assess first-trimester development of the utero-placental vascular morphology? SUMMARY ANSWER The application of 3D PD ultrasonography and a skeletonization algorithm facilitates morphologic assessment of utero-placental vascular development in the first trimester and reveals less advanced vascular morphologic development in pregnancies with placenta-related complications than in pregnancies without placenta-related complications. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Suboptimal development of the utero-placental vasculature is one of the main contributors to the periconceptional origin of placenta-related complications. The nature and attribution of aberrant vascular structure and branching patterns remain unclear, as validated markers monitoring first-trimester utero-placental vascular morphologic development are lacking. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION In this prospective observational cohort, 214 ongoing pregnancies were included before 10 weeks gestational age (GA) at a tertiary hospital between January 2017 and July 2018, as a subcohort of the ongoing Rotterdam Periconception Cohort study. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS By combining 3D PD ultrasonography and virtual reality, utero-placental vascular volume (uPVV) measurements were obtained at 7, 9 and 11 weeks GA. A skeletonization algorithm was applied to the uPVV measurements to generate the utero-placental vascular skeleton (uPVS), a network-like structure containing morphologic characteristics of the vasculature. Quantification of vascular morphology was performed by assigning a morphologic characteristic to each voxel in the uPVS (end-, vessel-, bifurcation- or crossing-point) and calculating total vascular network length. A Mann–Whitney U test was performed to investigate differences in morphologic development of the first-trimester utero-placental vasculature between pregnancies with and without placenta-related complications. Linear mixed models were used to estimate trajectories of the morphologic characteristics in the first trimester. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE All morphologic characteristics of the utero-placental vasculature increased significantly in the first trimester (P < 0.005). In pregnancies with placenta-related complications (n = 54), utero-placental vascular branching was significantly less advanced at 9 weeks GA (vessel points P = 0.040, bifurcation points P = 0.050, crossing points P = 0.020, total network length P = 0.023). Morphologic growth trajectories remained similar after adjustment for parity, conception mode, foetal sex and occurrence of placenta-related complications. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The tertiary setting of this prospective observational study provides high internal, but possibly limited external, validity. Extrapolation of the study’s findings should therefore be addressed with caution. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The uPVS enables assessment of morphologic development of the first-trimester utero-placental vasculature. Further investigation of this innovative methodology needs to determine its added value for the assessment of (patho-) physiological utero-placental vascular development. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This research was funded by the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands. There are no conflicts of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Registered at the Dutch Trial Register (NTR6854).
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Affiliation(s)
- Eline S de Vos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anton H J Koning
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bas B van Rijn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eric A P Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annemarie G M G J Mulders
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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13
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A high periconceptional maternal ultra-processed food consumption impairs embryonic growth: The Rotterdam periconceptional cohort. Clin Nutr 2022; 41:1667-1675. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clnu.2022.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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14
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van Duijn L, Steegers-Theunissen RP, Baart EB, Willemsen S, Laven JS, Rousian M. The impact of culture medium used in IVF-treatment on post-implantation embryonic growth and development with emphasis on sex-specificity: The Rotterdam Periconception Cohort. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:1085-1096. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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15
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van Zundert SK, van Rossem L, Willemsen SP, van der Meer L, Ernst-Smelt HE, Steegers-Theunissen RP. Accumulation of periconceptional maternal social, lifestyle and medical risk factors and impairment of embryonic growth: The Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort (Predict Study). Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 44:1123-1133. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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16
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Pietersma CS, Mulders AGMGJ, Sabanovic A, Willemsen SP, Jansen MS, Steegers EAP, Steegers-Theunissen RPM, Rousian M. OUP accepted manuscript. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:696-707. [PMID: 35193145 PMCID: PMC8971648 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is periconceptional maternal smoking associated with embryonic morphological development in ongoing pregnancies? SUMMARY ANSWER Smoking during the periconceptional period is associated with a delayed embryonic morphological development which is not fully recuperated beyond the first trimester of pregnancy. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Smoking during pregnancy decreases prenatal growth, increasing the risk of preterm birth, small for gestational age (GA) and childhood obesity. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Between 2010 and 2018, 689 women with ongoing singleton pregnancies were periconceptionally enrolled in a prospective cohort study with follow-up until 1 year after delivery. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Between 7 + 0 and 10 + 3 weeks, GA serial three-dimensional transvaginal ultrasound scans were performed. Embryonic morphological development as assessed by the Carnegie developmental stages was evaluated using Virtual Reality techniques. In the absence of fetal morphology classification methods beyond the embryonic period, fetal ultrasound measurements at around 20 weeks’ GA, and birth weight were used to assess fetal growth. Linear mixed models were used to evaluate the association between smoking and the Carnegie stages. Regarding first-trimester morphological development, we additionally stratified our findings for mode of conception. Multiple linear regression models were used to study the association between smoking, fetal growth and birth weight. To investigate to which extent delayed embryonic morphological development mediated the effect of smoking, contemporary mediation analysis was used. Adjustments were made for potential confounders and other covariates. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A total of 689 singleton ongoing pregnancies were included and 1210 Carnegie stages were determined. Maternal periconceptional smoking represented by the number of cigarettes/day was associated with a slight non-significant delay of the Carnegie stages (βcigarettes/day = −0.058, 95% CI −0.122; 0.007, P = 0.080). Smoking of ≥10 cigarettes/day showed the strongest association (β≥10 cigarettes/day = −0.352, 95% CI −0.648; −0.057, P = 0.019), as reflected by a 0.9-day delay in reaching the final Carnegie stage. Stratification for mode of conception showed a stronger negative association between the number of cigarettes/day in the IVF/ICSI group (βcigarettes/day = −0.126, 95% CI −0.200; −0.051, P = 0.001) compared to naturally conceived pregnancies (βcigarettes/day = 0.009, 95% CI −0.093; 0.111, P = 0.867). In the IVF/ICSI group, periconceptional smoking of ≥10 cigarettes/day was associated with in a 1.6 day delay in reaching the final Carnegie stage (β≥10 cigarettes/day = −0.510, 95% CI −0.834; −0.186, P = 0.002). In the second trimester, periconceptional smoking was associated with a smaller femur length (βcigarettes/day = −0.077, 95% CI −0.147; −0.008, P = 0.029) and a larger head circumference (β1–9 cigarettes/day = 0.290, 95% CI 0.065; 0.514, P = 0.012). Smoking was associated with a lower birth weight, with a dose-response effect (βcigarettes/day = −0.150, 95% CI −0.233; −0.068, P < 0.001). Furthermore, using the unadjusted model, 40–60% of the association between smoking and fetal ultrasound parameters and 6.3% of the association between smoking and birth weight can be explained by a delayed embryonic morphology. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The study population was recruited from a tertiary referral center. Smoking habits were explored using self-reported questionnaires and checked for consistency by trained researchers. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study shows that the association of periconceptional maternal smoking and human morphological development can already be detected early in the first trimester of pregnancy using embryonic morphology as outcome. One of the key messages of this study is that the delay, or dysregulation, in embryonic morphology is associated with allometric growth reflected by smaller fetal measurements at 20 weeks gestation and lower weight at birth. The delay in embryonic morphology, measured in early pregnancy, cannot be recuperated during the pregnancy. The results of this study emphasize the importance of smoking intervention programs prior to conception. More research is warranted to assess the association between periconceptional smoking cessation and embryonic development. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The work was funded by the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands. The authors declare no conflicts of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- C S Pietersma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - A G M G J Mulders
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - A Sabanovic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - S P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - M S Jansen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - E A P Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - R P M Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - M Rousian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Correspondence address. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, PO Box 2040, Room Ee2271a, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands. Tel: +31-10 7038254; Fax: +31-10-7036815; E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3008-2567
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Wiegel RE, Fares DA, Willemsen SP, Steegers EA, Danser AJ, Steegers-Theunissen RP. First-trimester maternal renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system activation and fetal growth and birth weight: The Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 44:1110-1122. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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18
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Hoek J, Schoenmakers S, van Duijn L, Willemsen SP, van Marion ES, Laven JSE, Baart EB, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. A higher preconceptional paternal body mass index influences fertilization rate and preimplantation embryo development. Andrology 2021; 10:486-494. [PMID: 34779151 PMCID: PMC9299449 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Background Obesity is a worldwide problem affecting the health of millions of people throughout the life course. Studies reveal that obesity impairs sperm parameters and epigenetics, potentially influencing embryonic development. Objective To investigate the association between preconceptional paternal body mass index (BMI) and embryo morphokinetics using a time‐lapse incubator and in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) outcomes. Materials and methods Participants were recruited from a tertiary hospital in this prospective periconceptional cohort study. A total of 211 men were included: 86 with normal weight (BMI < 25.0), 94 overweight (BMI 25–29.9), and 41 obese (BMI ≥ 30). These men were part of a couple that underwent IVF/ICSI treatment with ejaculated sperm after which 757 embryos were cultured in a time‐lapse incubator. The main outcome parameters consisted of fertilization rate, embryo developmental morphokinetics, embryo quality assessed by a time‐lapse prediction algorithm (KIDScore), and live birth rate. Results A higher paternal BMI was associated with faster development of the preimplantation embryo, especially during the first cleavage divisions (t2: −0.11 h (p = 0.05) and t3: −0.19 h (p = 0.01)). Embryo quality using the KIDScore was not altered. The linear regression analysis, after adjustment for confounders (paternal age, ethnicity, smoking, alcohol use, education, total motile sperm count, and maternal age and BMI), showed an inverse association between paternal BMI and fertilization rate (effect estimate: −0.01 (p = 0.002)), but not with the live birth rate. Discussion and conclusion Our data demonstrate that a higher preconceptional paternal BMI is associated with a reduced fertilization rate in IVF/ICSI treatment. Our findings underline the importance of a healthy paternal weight during the preconception period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Hoek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sam Schoenmakers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Linette van Duijn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eva S van Marion
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joop S E Laven
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Esther B Baart
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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19
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Wiegel RE, Karsten MJH, Reijnders IF, van Rossem L, Willemsen SP, Mulders AGMGJ, Koning AHJ, Steegers EAP, Danser AHJ, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. Corpus luteum number and the maternal renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system as determinants of utero-placental (vascular) development: the Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:164. [PMID: 34732224 PMCID: PMC8567673 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00843-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnancies with > 1 corpus luteum (CL) display a hyperdynamic circulation and an increased risk of small-for-gestational age deliveries. Among the factors released by the CL is prorenin, the inactive precursor of renin. Since the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) is involved in early hemodynamic pregnancy adaptation, we linked both CL number and first-trimester concentrations of prorenin (as an indicator of RAAS activity) and the aldosterone/renin ratio (as an indicator of angiotensin-independent aldosterone effectiveness) to non-invasive markers of utero-placental (vascular) development, measured longitudinally from the first trimester onwards. METHODS A total of 201 women, who conceived naturally or after in-vitro fertilization treatment (with 0 (n = 8), 1 (n = 143), or > 1 (n = 51) CL), were selected from the Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort. Maternal RAAS components were determined at 11 weeks gestation. Placental volume and utero-placental vascular volume were measured from transvaginal 3D ultrasound scans at 7, 9 and 11 weeks gestation, pulsatility and resistance indices of the uterine arteries were assessed by pulsed wave Doppler ultrasounds at 7, 9, 11, 13, 22 and 32 weeks gestation. At birth placental weight was obtained using standardized procedures. RESULTS Pregnancies without a CL show lower uterine artery indices throughout gestation than 1 CL and > 1 CL pregnancies, while parameters of placental development are comparable among the CL groups. After adjustment for patient- and treatment-related factors, first-trimester prorenin concentrations are positively associated with uterine artery pulsatility and resistance indices (β 0.06, 95% CI 0.01;0.12, p = 0.04 and β 0.10, 95% CI 0.01;0.20, p = 0.04, respectively), while high prorenin concentrations are negatively associated with first-trimester utero-placental vascular volume (β -0.23, 95% CI -0.44;-0.02, p = 0.04) and placental weight (β -93.8, 95%CI -160.3;-27.4, p = 0.006). In contrast, the aldosterone/renin ratio is positively associated with first-trimester placental volume (β 0.12, 95% CI 0.01;0.24, p = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS The absence of a CL, resulting in low prorenin concentrations, associates with low uterine artery pulsatility and resistance, while high prorenin concentrations associate with a low utero-placental vascular volume and weight. These data support a scenario in which excess prorenin, by upregulating angiotensin II, increases uterine resistance, thereby preventing normal placental (vascular) development, and increasing the risk of small-for-gestational age deliveries. Simultaneously, high aldosterone concentrations, by ensuring volume expansion, exert the opposite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalieke E Wiegel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maud J H Karsten
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Igna F Reijnders
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lenie van Rossem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annemarie G M G J Mulders
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anton H J Koning
- Department of Pathology, Clinical Bioinformatics Unit, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eric A P Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A H Jan Danser
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Régine P M Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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20
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van Duijn L, Rousian M, Laven JSE, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. Periconceptional maternal body mass index and the impact on post-implantation (sex-specific) embryonic growth and morphological development. Int J Obes (Lond) 2021; 45:2369-2376. [PMID: 34290384 DOI: 10.1038/s41366-021-00901-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Women with obesity have an increased risk of pregnancy complications. Although complications generally present in the second and third trimester of pregnancy, most of them develop in the periconception period. Moreover, fetal sex also impacts pregnancy course and outcome. Therefore, our aim is to study (sex-specific) associations between periconceptional maternal body mass index (BMI) and embryonic growth and morphological development. METHODS A total of 884 women with singleton pregnancies were selected from the Rotterdam Periconception Cohort, comprising 15 women with underweight, 483 with normal weight, 231 with overweight and 155 with obesity. Longitudinal three-dimensional ultrasound examinations were performed at 7, 9, and 11 weeks of gestation for offline measurements of crown-rump length (CRL), embryonic volume (EV), and Carnegie stages. Analyses were adjusted for maternal age, parity, ethnicity, education, and periconceptional lifestyle. RESULTS A negative trend was observed for embryos of women with obesity (βEV -0.03, p = 0.086), whereas embryonic growth and developmental trajectories in women with overweight were comparable to those with normal weight. Maternal underweight was associated with faster morphological development (βCarnegie 0.78, p = 0.004). After stratification for fetal sex, it was demonstrated that female embryos of underweight women grow and morphologically develop faster than those of normal weight women (βEV 0.13, p = 0.008; βCarnegie 1.39, p < 0.001), whereas female embryos of women with obesity grow slower (βEV -0.05, p = 0.027). CONCLUSION We found that periconceptional maternal underweight is associated with faster embryonic growth, especially in females. In contrast, female embryos of women with obesity grow slower than female embryos of women with normal weight. This may be the result of altered female adaptation to the postnatal environment. Future research should focus on strategies for optimizing preconceptional maternal weight, to reduce BMI-related pregnancy complications and improve the health of future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linette van Duijn
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Melek Rousian
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joop S E Laven
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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21
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Husen SC, Kemper ND, Go AT, Willemsen SP, Rousian M, Steegers-Theunissen RP. Periconceptional maternal folate status and the impact on embryonic head and brain structures: the Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 44:515-523. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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22
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Reijnders IF, Mulders A, Koster M, Kropman A, Koning A, Willemsen SP, Steegers E, Steegers-Theunissen R. First-trimester maternal haemodynamic adaptation to pregnancy and placental, embryonic and fetal development: the prospective observational Rotterdam Periconception cohort. BJOG 2021; 129:785-795. [PMID: 34665928 PMCID: PMC9298112 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.16979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Objective To investigate whether first‐trimester maternal haemodynamic adaptation impacts placental, embryonic and fetal development as well as birth outcomes in pregnancies with and without placenta‐related complications. Design Prospective observational cohort. Setting A Dutch tertiary hospital. Population Two hundred and fourteen ongoing pregnancies. Methods At 7, 9 and 11 weeks of gestation, we assessed maternal haemodynamic adaptation (mean arterial blood pressure [MAP], uterine artery [UtA] blood flow) and placental development (placental volume [PV], uteroplacental vascular volume [uPVV]) using three‐dimensional power Doppler ultrasound volumes, and embryonic development (crown–rump length, embryonic volume). At 22 and 32 weeks of gestation, fetal development was assessed by estimated fetal weight. Birth outcomes (birthweight, placental weight) were extracted from medical records. Linear mixed modelling and linear regression analyses were applied. Main outcome measures Birthweight centile and placental weight. Results In placenta‐related complications (n= 55, 25.7%), reduced haemodynamic adaptation, i.e. higher UtA pulsatility index (PI) and resistance index (RI) trajectories, was associated with smaller increase in PV (β = −0.559, 95% CI −0.841 to −0.278, P< 0.001; β = −0.579, 95% CI −0.878 to −0.280, P< 0.001) and uPVV trajectories (UtA PI: β = −0.301, 95% CI −0.578 to −0.023, P= 0.034). At birth, reduced haemodynamic adaptation was associated with lower placental weight (UtA PI: β = −0.502, 95% CI −0.922 to −0.082, P= 0.022; UtA RI: β = −0.435, 95% CI −0.839 to −0.032, P= 0.036). In pregnancies without placenta‐related complications, higher MAP trajectories were positively associated with birthweight centile (β = 0.398, 95% CI 0.049–0.748, P= 0.025). Conclusions Reduced first‐trimester maternal haemodynamic adaptation impacts both placental size and vascularisation and birthweight centile, in particular in pregnancies with placenta‐related complications. Tweetable abstract Reduced first‐trimester maternal haemodynamic adaptation to pregnancy impairs early placental development.
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Affiliation(s)
- I F Reijnders
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Agmgj Mulders
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mph Koster
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Atm Kropman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ahj Koning
- Department of Pathology, Clinical Bioinformatics Unit Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eap Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rpm Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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23
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Periconceptional maternal and paternal homocysteine levels and early utero-placental (vascular) growth trajectories: The Rotterdam periconception cohort. Placenta 2021; 115:45-52. [PMID: 34560327 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Maternal elevated plasma total homocysteine (tHcy) is involved in the origin of several placenta-related pregnancy complications. The first trimester is the most sensitive period for placentation influenced by maternal and paternal health. The aim is to study associations between periconceptional parental tHcy levels and utero-placental growth trajectories in the first trimester of pregnancy. METHODS Pregnant women and their partners were enrolled before 10 weeks of gestation in the Virtual Placenta study as subcohort of the Rotterdam periconception cohort (Predict study). A total of 190 women with a singleton pregnancy, of which 109 conceived naturally and 81 after IVF/ICSI treatment, were included. We measured serial utero-placental vascular volumes (uPVV) and placental volumes (PV) at 7, 9 and 11 weeks of gestation. First-trimester trajectories of PV were also measured in 662 pregnancies from the total Predict study. RESULTS Comparing all participants of the virtual placenta study, no association between maternal tHcy and uPVV was observed. However, in IVF/ICSI pregnancies sub-analyses showed significantly negative associations between maternal tHcy in the 3rd and 4th quartile and uPVV trajectories (beta: -0.38 (95%CI -0.74 to -0.02) and beta: -0.42 (95% CI -0.78 to -0.05), respectively) with the 1st quartile as reference. Analysis in the total Predict cohort showed similar negative associations for the total study population. DISCUSSION Periconceptional high maternal tHcy levels are associated with smaller placental growth trajectories depicted as PV and uPVV in the first trimester of pregnancy. The stronger negative associations with uPVV in IVF/ICSI pregnancies underline the need for further investigation.
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van Duijn L, Rousian M, Hoek J, Willemsen SP, van Marion ES, Laven JSE, Baart EB, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. Higher preconceptional maternal body mass index is associated with faster early preimplantation embryonic development: the Rotterdam periconception cohort. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:145. [PMID: 34537064 PMCID: PMC8449446 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00822-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Overweight and obesity affect millions of people globally, which has also serious implications for reproduction. For example, treatment outcomes after in vitro fertilisation (IVF) are worse in women with a high body mass index (BMI). However, the impact of maternal BMI on embryo quality is inconclusive. Our main aim is to study associations between preconceptional maternal BMI and morphokinetic parameters of preimplantation embryos and predicted implantation potential. In addition, associations with clinical IVF outcomes are investigated. METHODS From a tertiary hospital, 268 women undergoing IVF or IVF with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) were included; 143 normal weight, 79 overweight and 46 obese women. The embryos of these women were cultured in the EmbryoScope, a time-lapse incubator. The morphokinetic parameters of preimplantation embryos and predicted implantation potential, assessed by the KIDScore algorithm were longitudinally evaluated as primary and secondary outcomes, respectively. The tertiary outcomes included clinical outcomes, i.e., fertilization, implantation and live birth rate. RESULTS After adjustment for patient- and treatment-related factors, we demonstrated in 938 embryos that maternal BMI is negatively associated with the moment of pronuclear appearance (βtPNa -0.070 h (95%CI -0.139, -0.001), p = 0.048), pronuclear fading (βtPNf -0.091 h (95%CI -0.180, -0.003), p = 0.043 and the first cell cleavage (βt2 -0.111 h (95%CI -0.205, -0.016), p = 0.022). Maternal BMI was not significantly associated with the KIDScore and tertiary clinical treatment outcomes. In embryos from couples with female or combined factor subfertility, the impact of maternal BMI was even larger (βtPNf -0.170 h (95%CI -0.293, -0.047), p = 0.007; βt2 -0.199 h (95%CI -0.330, -0.067), p = 0.003). Additionally, a detrimental impact of BMI per point increase was observed on the KIDScore (β -0.073 (se 0.028), p = 0.010). CONCLUSIONS Higher maternal BMI is associated with faster early preimplantation development. In couples with female or combined factor subfertility, a higher BMI is associated with a lower implantation potential as predicted by the KIDScore. Likely due to power issues, we did not observe an impact on clinical treatment outcomes. However, an effect of faster preimplantation development on post-implantation development is conceivable, especially since the impact of maternal BMI on pregnancy outcomes has been widely demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linette van Duijn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands
| | - Melek Rousian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands
| | - Jeffrey Hoek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eva S van Marion
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joop S E Laven
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Esther B Baart
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Developmental Biology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Régine P M Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands.
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van der Windt M, Schoenmakers S, Willemsen S, van Rossem L, Steegers-Theunissen R. Optimizing the Periconception Lifestyle of Women With Overweight Using a Blended Personalized Care Intervention Combining eHealth and Face-to-face Counseling (eFUSE): Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2021; 10:e28600. [PMID: 34477561 PMCID: PMC8449297 DOI: 10.2196/28600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Maternal overweight has a substantial impact on reproductive, maternal, pregnancy, and neonatal outcomes with long-term and transgenerational health consequences. Interventions that aim to optimize periconception maternal lifestyle can improve maternal and fetal health during pregnancy and throughout the life course. However, it remains difficult to change and adopt adequate lifestyle behaviors. We hypothesize that additional psychological therapy targeting cognitive and affective factors substantially contribute to the effectiveness of these interventions. Objective The proposed study aims to examine the feasibility and effectiveness of a blended personalized periconception lifestyle care intervention with additional psychological therapy aimed at women with a BMI≥25 and who are contemplating pregnancy or are already pregnant (≤12 weeks) in reducing inadequate lifestyle behaviors and improving early and late pregnancy outcome. Methods The eHealth and Face-to-face Counseling (eFUSE) study follows a single-center two-arm randomized controlled trial design at the Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, with a multicenter regional referral. The female patients with overweight (BMI≥25), together with their male partner, will be stratified by pregnancy status (preconception vs pregnant) and randomized to receive either the blended personalized periconception lifestyle care intervention with additional psychological therapy (n=313) or usual care (n=313). The primary outcome is a change in the lifestyle risk score (between baseline and 24 weeks) between the randomization arms (difference in differences). Secondary outcomes include measurements defined as most relevant by the International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement, including behavioral determinants, patient satisfaction, provider feasibility, and maternal pregnancy and neonatal complications. Results The study will be open for recruitment from Fall 2021 onward. Data collection is expected to be completed by the beginning of 2023, and the results are expected to be published by Fall 2023. Conclusions This study will evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of a blended periconception lifestyle intervention with additional psychological therapy, aimed at women with a BMI≥25. Positive results of this innovative care approach will be used for implementation in routine medical care of all women with overweight, with the ultimate aim to improve clinical outcomes of these high-risk pregnancies. Trial Registration Netherlands Trial Register NL9264; https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/9264 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/28600
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa van der Windt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sam Schoenmakers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sten Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Lenie van Rossem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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26
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Snoek KM, Steegers-Theunissen RPM, Klaassen RA, Laven JSE, Schoenmakers S. Impact of Bariatric surgery on EmbrYONic, fetal and placental Development (BEYOND): protocol for a prospective cohort study embedded in the Rotterdam periconceptional cohort. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e051110. [PMID: 34475184 PMCID: PMC8413945 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-051110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The worldwide obesity epidemic has resulted in a rise of bariatric surgery in women of reproductive age, which can lead to 'iatrogenic undernutrition'. Long-lasting undernutrition can affect maternal health, pregnancy outcomes and offspring. We hypothesise that embryonic and placental growth are impaired in pregnancies after bariatric surgery due to the changed nutritional and microbiome dynamics. Therefore, our aim is to conduct the Bariatrics and EmbrYONic Development (BEYOND) study to investigate parameters of maternal nutritional and health status after bariatric surgery, both periconceptionally and during pregnancy, particularly concentrating on embryonic and fetal growth trajectories as well as placental development. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We designed a single-centre prospective, observational cohort, which investigates the iatrogenic nutritional and health status of women after bariatric surgery, periconceptionally and during pregnancy. The BEYOND study is embedded in the Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort, a tertiary hospital-based birth cohort study. Eligible participants are women planning pregnancy or <12+0 weeks pregnant, ≥18 and ≤45 years of age, who have undergone bariatric surgery (cases) or without prior bariatric surgery (controls) and their male partners. Medical charts will be reviewed and questionnaires regarding general health, lifestyle and food intake will be collected. Moreover, we will perform serial three-dimensional ultrasounds to assess embryonic growth and placental development and two-dimensional ultrasounds for fetal growth assessment. The microbiome, including the virome, and blood samples will be sampled during the preconception period and in each trimester. Multivariable linear mixed model analyses will be used to assess the associations between bariatric surgery and pregnancy outcomes. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This proposal was approved by the Medical Ethics Committee from the Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands. Study results will be submitted for publication in high-impact journals, presented at scientific conferences, implemented into guidelines and communicated through the Erasmus MC and collaborating partners. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NL8217 (www.trialregister.nl).
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Affiliation(s)
- Katinka M Snoek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - René A Klaassen
- Department of Surgery, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joop S E Laven
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sam Schoenmakers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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27
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van Duijn L, Rousian M, Reijnders IF, Willemsen SP, Baart EB, Laven JSE, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. The influence of frozen-thawed and fresh embryo transfer on utero-placental (vascular) development: the Rotterdam Periconception cohort. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:2091-2100. [PMID: 33974704 PMCID: PMC8289318 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does frozen-thawed or fresh embryo transfer (ET) influence utero-placental (vascular) development, when studied using three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound and virtual reality imaging techniques? SUMMARY ANSWER In the first trimester, placental developmental parameters, that is, placental volume (PV) and utero-placental vascular volume (uPVV), were comparable between pregnancies resulting from frozen-thawed ET, fresh ET and natural conception; and in the second and the third trimester, uterine artery Doppler indices were lower in pregnancies after frozen-thawed ET compared to pregnancies after fresh ET and natural conception. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Pregnancies after frozen-thawed ET are at risk of developing placenta-related pregnancy complications. There is strong evidence that impaired first-trimester spiral artery remodelling is involved in the pathophysiology of these complications. Studies on longitudinal placental development in pregnancies with different modes of conception, that is, after frozen-thawed ET, fresh ET or natural conception, are lacking. STUDY, DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Women with singleton pregnancies were included before 10 weeks of gestation, between January 2017 and July 2018, as a subcohort of the ongoing Rotterdam Periconception cohort. Results were partially validated in 722 women from the total cohort, which was conducted from November 2010 onwards. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS A total of 214 women, of whom 32 conceived after frozen-thawed ET, 56 conceived after fresh ET and 126 conceived naturally, were selected. PV and uPVV measurements were obtained at 7, 9 and 11 weeks of gestation by transvaginal 3D (power Doppler) ultrasound. The uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA-PI) and resistance index (UtA-RI) were measured transvaginally at 7, 9, 11 and 13 weeks and abdominally at 22 and 32 weeks of gestation by pulsed wave Doppler ultrasound. In the validation cohort, the PV was measured in 722 women. Associations between mode of conception and placental development were studied using linear mixed models. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE First-trimester parameters of placental development, that is, PV, uPVV, UtA-PI and UtA-RI, were comparable between pregnancies after frozen-thawed and fresh ET and naturally conceived pregnancies. In our validation cohort, comparable results were found for PV. However, the second- and third-trimester UtA-PI and UtA-RI in pregnancies after frozen-thawed ET were significantly lower than in pregnancies after fresh ET (βUtA-PI −0.158 (95% CI: −0.268, −0.048), P = 0.005; βUtA-RI −0.052 (95% CI: −0.089, −0.015), P = 0.006). The second- and third-trimester uterine artery indices in pregnancies after fresh ET were comparable to those in pregnancies after natural conception. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The main limitation of this study is the lack of power to optimally detect differences in placental development and placenta-related pregnancy outcomes between pregnancies after different modes of conception. Moreover, our population was selected from a tertiary hospital and included a relatively limited number of pregnancies. Therefore, external validity of the results should be confirmed in a larger sample size. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These findings indicate no significant impact of conception mode on early placental development and a beneficial impact for frozen-thawed ET on the second- and third-trimester Doppler indices. This suggests that frozen-thawed ET may not be as detrimental for placental perfusion as previous research has demonstrated. As the number of clinics applying the ‘freeze-all strategy’ increases, future research should focus on establishing the optimal uterine environment, with regards to hormonal preparation, prior to ET to reduce placental-related pregnancy complications after frozen-thawed ET. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This research was funded by the Erasmus MC Medical Research Advisor Committee’s ‘Health Care Efficiency Research’ program and the department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands. JSEL reports grants and personal fees from Ferring, personal fees from Titus Healthcare, grants and personal fees from Ansh Labs, grants from NIH, grants from Dutch Heart Association and grants from ZonMW outside the submitted work. None of the other authors have a conflict of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Registered at the Dutch Trial Register (NTR6684).
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Affiliation(s)
- Linette van Duijn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Melek Rousian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Igna F Reijnders
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Esther B Baart
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Developmental Biology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joop S E Laven
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Rousian M, Schoenmakers S, Eggink AJ, Gootjes DV, Koning AHJ, Koster MPH, Mulders AGMGJ, Baart EB, Reiss IKM, Laven JSE, Steegers EAP, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. Cohort Profile Update: the Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort and embryonic and fetal measurements using 3D ultrasound and virtual reality techniques. Int J Epidemiol 2021; 50:1426-1427l. [PMID: 34097026 PMCID: PMC8580268 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyab030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Melek Rousian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sam Schoenmakers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alex J Eggink
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dionne V Gootjes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anton H J Koning
- Department of Pathology, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maria P H Koster
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Esther B Baart
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Irwin K M Reiss
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joop S E Laven
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eric A P Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Husen SC, Koning IV, Go ATJI, Groenenberg IAL, Willemsen SP, Rousian M, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. IVF with or without ICSI and the impact on human embryonic brain development: the Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:596-604. [PMID: 33454773 PMCID: PMC7891808 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does IVF with or without ICSI (IVF/ICSI) treatment impact the development of embryonic brain structures? SUMMARY ANSWER Our results show associations between IVF/ICSI treatment, smoking and slightly increased sizes of early human embryonic brain structures. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The number of IVF/ICSI procedures is increasing worldwide and is associated with higher risks of obstetric and perinatal complications in pregnancies. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION One hundred seventy-five women with a singleton pregnancy were included in the Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort (Predict study). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Self-reported questionnaires, verified by a research assistant at enrollment, provided information on periconceptional maternal characteristics and mode of conception. Three-dimensional ultrasound (3D-US) examinations were performed at 9 and 11 weeks of gestational age (GA). Diencephalon total diameter (DTD), mesencephalon total diameter (MTD) and telencephalon thickness on the left and right site (TTL/TTR) were measured offline in standardized planes using 4D View software. Linear regression models with adjustment for GA, maternal age, body mass index, moment of initiation of folic acid supplement use and smoking were used to study associations between mode of conception and embryonic brain measurements at 9 and 11 weeks of GA. MAIN RESULTS AND ROLE OF CHANCE A total of 276 3D-US scans of 166 participants, of which 50 conceived through IVF/ICSI, were included for embryonic brain measurements. Success rates of the DTD and MTD measurements were between 67% and 73% and of the TTL/TTR between 52% and 57%. In the fully adjusted model, we found that at 11 weeks of GA, the MTD (ß = 0.264, 95% CI = 0.101; 0.427, P < 0.01) and TTR (ß = 0.075, 95% CI = 0.001; 0.149, P < 0.05) sizes were larger in IVF/ICSI pregnancies. In addition, smoking also resulted in larger TTL measurements at 11 weeks of GA (ß = 0.095, 95% CI= 0.005; 0.186, P < 0.05). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The implications of these small deviations on brain functioning need further investigation. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Enlargement of attention for prenatal brain development and postnatal neurodevelopmental outcome after IVF/ICSI treatment. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This study was funded by the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, and Sophia research foundation for Medical Research, Rotterdam, the Netherlands (SSWO grant number 644). No competing interests are declared. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofie C Husen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3000 CA, The Netherlands
| | - Irene V Koning
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3000 CA, The Netherlands
| | - Attie T J I Go
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3000 CA, The Netherlands
| | - Irene A L Groenenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3000 CA, The Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3000 CA, The Netherlands.,Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3000 CA, The Netherlands
| | - Melek Rousian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam 3000 CA, The Netherlands
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30
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van Duijn L, Hoek J, Rousian M, Baart EB, Willemsen SP, Laven JSE, Steegers-Theunissen RPM, Schoenmakers S. Prenatal growth trajectories and birth outcomes after frozen-thawed extended culture embryo transfer and fresh embryo transfer: the Rotterdam Periconception Cohort. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 43:279-287. [PMID: 34092521 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Are there differences in prenatal growth trajectories and birth outcomes between singleton pregnancies conceived after IVF treatment with frozen-thawed extended culture embryo transfer at day 5, fresh embryo transfer at day 3 or naturally conceived pregnancies? DESIGN From a prospective hospital-based cohort, 859 singleton pregnancies were selected, including 133 conceived after IVF with frozen-thawed embryo transfer, 276 after fresh embryo transfer, and 450 naturally conceived pregnancies. Longitudinal 3D ultrasound scans were performed at 7, 9 and 11 weeks of gestation for offline crown-rump length (CRL) and embryonic volume measurements. Second trimester estimated fetal weight was based on growth parameters obtained during the routine fetal anomaly scan at 20 weeks of gestation. Birth outcome data were collected from medical records. RESULTS No differences regarding embryonic growth trajectories were observed between frozen-thawed and fresh embryo transfer. Birthweight percentiles after fresh embryo transfer were lower than after frozen-thawed embryo transfer (38.0 versus 48.0; P = 0.046, respectively). The prevalence of non-iatrogenic preterm birth (PTB) was significantly lower in pregnancies resulting from fresh embryo transfer compared with frozen-thawed embryo transfer (4.7% versus 10.9%; P = 0.026, respectively). Compared with naturally conceived pregnancies, birthweight percentiles and percentage of non-iatrogenic PTB were significantly lower in pregnancies after fresh embryo transfer and gestational age at birth was significantly higher. CONCLUSIONS This study shows that embryonic growth is comparable between singleton pregnancies conceived after fresh and frozen-thawed embryo transfer. The lower relative birthweight and PTB rate in pregnancies after fresh embryo transfer than after frozen-thawed embryo transfer and naturally conceived pregnancies warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linette van Duijn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jeffrey Hoek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Melek Rousian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Esther B Baart
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Joop S E Laven
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Sam Schoenmakers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Reijnders IF, Mulders AGMGJ, Koster MPH, Kropman ATM, de Vos ES, Koning AHJ, Willemsen SP, Rousian M, Steegers EAP, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. First-trimester utero-placental (vascular) development and embryonic and fetal growth: The Rotterdam periconception cohort. Placenta 2021; 108:81-90. [PMID: 33823358 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Impaired placental development is a major cause of fetal growth restriction (FGR) and early detection will therefore improve antenatal care and birth outcomes. Here we aim to investigate serial first-trimester ultrasound markers of utero-placental (vascular) development in association with embryonic and fetal growth. METHODS In a prospective cohort, we periconceptionally included 214 pregnant women. Three-dimensional power Doppler ultrasonography at 7, 9 and 11 weeks gestational age (GA) was used to measure placental volumes (PV) and basal plate surface area by Virtual Organ Computer-aided AnaLysis™, and utero-placental vascular volume (uPVV), crown-rump length (CRL) and embryonic volume (EV) by a V-scope volume rendering application. Estimated fetal weight (EFW) was measured by ultrasound at 22 and 32 weeks GA and birth weight percentile (BW) was recorded. Linear mixed models and regression analyses were applied and appropriately adjusted. All analyses were stratified for fetal sex. RESULTS PV trajectories were positively associated with CRL (βadj = 0.416, 95%CI:0.255; 0.576, p < 0.001), EV (βadj = 0.220, 95%CI:0.058; 0.381, p = 0.008) and EFW (βadj = 0.182, 95%CI:0.012; 0.352, p = 0.037). uPVV trajectories were positively associated with CRL (βadj = 0.203, 95%CI 0.021; 0.384, p = 0.029). In girls, PV trajectories were positively associated with CRL (p < 0.001), EV (p = 0.018), EFW (p = 0.026), and uPVV trajectories were positively associated with BW (p = 0.040). In boys, positive associations were shown between PV trajectories and CRL (p = 0.002), and between uPVV trajectories and CRL (p = 0.046). DISCUSSION First-trimester utero-placental (vascular) development is associated with embryonic and fetal growth, with fetal sex specific modifications. This underlines the opportunity to monitor first-trimester placental development and supports the associations with embryonic and fetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- I F Reijnders
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - A G M G J Mulders
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - M P H Koster
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - A T M Kropman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - E S de Vos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - A H J Koning
- Department of Pathology, Clinical Bioinformatics Unit Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - S P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - M Rousian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - E A P Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - R P M Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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Welling MS, Husen SC, Go ATJI, Groenenberg IAL, Willemsen SP, Bijma HH, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. Growth trajectories of the human fetal brain in healthy and complicated pregnancies and associations with neurodevelopmental outcome in the early life course. Early Hum Dev 2020; 151:105224. [PMID: 33091852 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2020.105224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a need for non-invasive prenatal markers of the brain to assess fetuses at risk for poor postnatal neurodevelopmental outcome. Periconceptional maternal conditions and pregnancy complications impact prenatal brain development. AIMS To investigate associations between growth trajectories of fetal brain structures and neurodevelopmental outcome in children in the early life course. STUDY DESIGN Periconceptional prospective observational cohort. SUBJECTS Singleton pregnancies were included in the Rotterdam periconception cohort. Two- and three-dimensional ultrasound scans at 22, 26 and 32 weeks gestational age were analysed. OUTCOME MEASURES Head circumference (HC), cerebellum, corpus callosum (CC), Sylvian fissure, insula and parieto-occipital fissure (POF) were measured. Neurodevelopment was evaluated using the Age-and-Stages-questionnaire-3 (ASQ-3) and the Child-Behaviour-Checklist (CBCL) at 2 years of age. Linear mixed models, used to estimate the prenatal brain growth trajectories, and linear regression models, used to evaluate the associations between prenatal brain structures and neurodevelopmental outcomes, were applied in the total study population, and in subgroups: fetal growth restriction (FGR), preterm birth (PTB), fetal congenital heart disease (CHD), and uncomplicated controls. RESULTS Consent for participation was received from parents on behalf of their child 138/203 (68%). ASQ-3 was completed in 128/203 children (63%) and CBCL in 93/203 children (46%). Significant smaller subject-specific growth trajectories (growth rate of CC, HC, left insula, left POF and right POF and the baseline size of CC, HC, left POF and right POF) were found in the FGR subgroup, compared to the other subgroups (all p-values <0.05). In the total group (n = 138), the growth rate of the left insula was associated with poorer ASQ-3 score (β = -869.51; p < 0.05). Healthy controls (n = 106) showed a comparable association (β = -1209.87; p < 0.01). FGR (n = 10) showed a larger baseline size of the right Sylvian fissure in association with poorer CBCL-score (β = 4.13; p < 0.01). In CHD (n = 12) the baseline size of the left Sylvian fissure and its growth rate were associated with respectively poorer and better CBCL-scores (β = 3.11; p < 0.01); (β = -171.99; p < 0.01). In PTB (n = 10) no associations were found. CONCLUSIONS This explorative study suggests associations between ultrasound measurements of fetal brain growth and neurodevelopmental outcome at 2 years of age. In future, this non-invasive technique may improve early identification of fetuses at risk for neurodevelopmental outcome and follow-up postnatal clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mila S Welling
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sofie C Husen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Attie T J I Go
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Irene A L Groenenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hilmar H Bijma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Régine P M Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Sophia Children's Hospital, 3000, CA, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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Hoek J, Boellaard WPA, van Marion ES, Willemsen SP, Baart EB, Steegers-Theunissen RPM, Schoenmakers S. The impact of the origin of surgical sperm retrieval on placental and embryonic development: The Rotterdam Periconception cohort. Andrology 2020; 9:599-609. [PMID: 33207074 PMCID: PMC7986236 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In patients with azoospermia, pregnancy can be achieved after surgical techniques using sperm retrieved from the testis or epididymis, which can impact on DNA integrity and epigenetics. DNA of the fetus and placenta is equally derived from both parents; however, genes important for placental development are expressed from the paternal alleles. Therefore, the origin of sperm may affect fetal and placental development. OBJECTIVES To investigate whether first-trimester trajectories of embryonic and placental development of pregnancies conceived after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) with testicular sperm extraction (TESE) or microsurgical epididymal sperm aspiration (MESA), are different from pregnancies after ICSI with ejaculated sperm or natural conceptions. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 147 singleton ICSI pregnancies, including pregnancies conceived after TESE (n = 23), MESA (n = 25) and ejaculated sperm (n = 99), and 380 naturally conceived and 140 after IVF treatment without ICSI were selected from the prospective Rotterdam periconception cohort. Crown-rump length (CRL), embryonic volume (EV), Carnegie stages, and placental volume (PV) at 7, 9, and 11 weeks of gestation were measured using 3D ultrasound and virtual reality technology. RESULTS Linear mixed model analysis showed no differences in trajectories of CRL, EV, and Carnegie stages between pregnancies conceived after ICSI with testicular, epididymal, and ejaculated sperm. A significantly positive association was demonstrated for PV between pregnancies conceived after TESE-ICSI (adjusted beta: 0.28(95%CI: 0.05-0.50)) versus ICSI with ejaculated sperm. Retransformation to original values showed that the PV of pregnancies after TESE-ICSI is 14.6% (95%CI: 1.4%-25.5%) larger at 11 weeks of gestation compared to ICSI pregnancies conceived with ejaculated sperm. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Here we demonstrate that the first-trimester growth trajectory of the placenta is increased in pregnancies conceived after TESE-ICSI compared to those conceived after ICSI with ejaculated sperm. Findings are discussed in the light of known differences in sperm DNA integrity, epigenetics, and placental gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Hoek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Willem P A Boellaard
- Department of Urology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eva S van Marion
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Esther B Baart
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Sam Schoenmakers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Frudiger A, Mulders AGMGJ, Rousian M, Plasschaert SCN, Koning AHJ, Willemsen SP, Steegers-Theunissen RPM, de Vries JIP, Steegers EAP. Evaluation of embryonic posture using four-dimensional ultrasound and virtual reality. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2020; 47:397-406. [PMID: 33145949 PMCID: PMC7821160 DOI: 10.1111/jog.14554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Aim To assess the possibility of embryonic posture evaluation (=feasibility, reproducibility, variation) at rest at 9 weeks' (+0–6 days) gestational age (GA) using four‐dimensional ultrasound and virtual reality (VR) techniques. Moreover, it is hypothesized that embryonic posture shows variation at the same time point in an uneventful pregnancy. Methods In this explorative prospective cohort study, 23 pregnant women were recruited from the Rotterdam periconceptional cohort. A transvaginal four‐dimensional ultrasound examination of 30 min per pregnancy was performed between 9 and 10 weeks' GA. The acquired datasets were offline evaluated longitudinally (i.e. per frame) using VR techniques. Results The ultrasound data of 16 (70%) out of 23 pregnancies were eligible for evaluation. At rest the analysis of the embryonic posture was feasible and showed a strong (>80%) intraobserver and interobserver reproducibility for most body parts. The majority of the body parts were in similar anatomic positions at rest. However, variations in anatomic positions (e.g. 6% rotated head, 9% laterally bent spine), within and between embryos, were seen at 9 weeks' GA. Conclusion In this unique study, we showed for the first time that embryonic posture measurements at rest can be performed in a reliable way using state‐of‐the‐art four‐dimensional ultrasound and VR techniques. Already early in prenatal life there are differences regarding posture within and between embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Frudiger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annemarie G M G J Mulders
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Melek Rousian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sophie C N Plasschaert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anton H J Koning
- Department of Pathology, Division of Clinical Bioinformatics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Regine P M Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Johanna I P de Vries
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Amsterdam Movement Science, Amsterdam UMC-VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eric A P Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Wiegel RE, Jan Danser AH, Steegers-Theunissen RPM, Laven JSE, Willemsen SP, Baker VL, Steegers EAP, von Versen-Höynck F. Determinants of Maternal Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone-System Activation in Early Pregnancy: Insights From 2 Cohorts. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5898239. [PMID: 32853347 PMCID: PMC7494245 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT The corpus luteum (CL) secretes prorenin, renin's inactive precursor. It may thus contribute to the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone-system (RAAS) activation that is required for maternal adaptation in pregnancy. Whether this activation is disturbed in pregnancies lacking a CL is unknown. OBJECTIVE The objective of this work is to investigate maternal RAAS determinants in early pregnancy. DESIGN AND SETTING Two observational prospective cohort studies. TOOK PLACE AT 2 tertiary referral hospitals. PATIENTS AND INTERVENTION(S) Pregnancies (n = 277) were stratified by CL number and in vitro fertilization (IVF) protocol: 0 CL (programmed cycle frozen embryo transfer [FET], n = 28), 1 CL (natural cycle FET, n = 41 and spontaneous conceptions, n = 139), and more than 1 CL (ovarian stimulation and fresh embryo transfer, n = 69). METHODS Quantification was performed for maternal prorenin, renin, and aldosterone blood levels at 5, 9, and 11 weeks of gestation. RESULTS Prorenin and renin were lower in the absence of a CL at all time points when compared to 1 CL, whereas prorenin, renin, and aldosterone were higher in the presence of more than 1 CL vs 1 CL (P < .05). Ovarian stimulation with menopausal gonadotropin resulted in higher prorenin, renin, and aldosterone concentrations during the late first trimester than recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (P < .05). Prorenin, and to a lesser degree renin, correlated positively with serum progesterone and relaxin, but not serum estradiol. Total follicle diameter, body mass index (BMI), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and antimüllerian hormone (AMH) were additional determinants of circulating prorenin. Finally, pregnancies conceived in the absence of a CL were more disposed to develop preeclampsia. CONCLUSIONS CL number, IVF protocol, BMI, PCOS, and AMH affect maternal RAAS activation in early pregnancy, and may thus contribute to pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalieke E Wiegel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - A H Jan Danser
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Régine P M Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: R.P.M. Steegers-Theunissen, MD, PhD, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Room EE-2271a, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands. E-mail:
| | - Joop S E Laven
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Valerie L Baker
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Lutherville, Maryland, USA
| | - Eric A P Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Laureij LT, Breunis LJ, Steegers-Theunissen RPM, Rosman AN. Identifying the Needs for a Web-Based Postpartum Platform Among Parents of Newborns and Health Care Professionals: Qualitative Focus Group Study. JMIR Form Res 2020; 4:e16202. [PMID: 32452805 PMCID: PMC7284398 DOI: 10.2196/16202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background During the turbulent postpartum period, there is an urgent need by parents for support and information regarding the care for their infant. In the Netherlands, professional support is provided during the first 8 days postpartum and for a maximum of 8 hours a day. This care is delivered by maternity care assistants (MCAs). Despite the availability of this extensive care, a majority of women prefer to make use of a lesser amount of postpartum care. After this period, access to care is less obvious. Where parents are automatically offered care in the first 8 days after birth, they must request care in the period thereafter. To compensate for a possible gap in information transfer, electronic health (eHealth) can be a valuable, easily accessible addition to regular care. Objective We explored the needs and preferred content by new parents and health care professionals of a web-based platform dedicated to the postpartum period and identified barriers and facilitators for using such a platform. Methods We conducted 3 semistructured focus groups among (1) parents of newborns, (2) MCAs, and (3) clinicians and administrators in maternity care. A topic list based on a framework designed for innovation processes was used. Thematic content analysis was applied. Results In the focus group for parents, 5 mothers and 1 male partner participated. A total of 6 MCAs participated in the second focus group. A total of 5 clinicians and 2 administrators—a member of a stakeholder party and a manager of a maternity care organization—participated in the third focus group. All user groups underlined that a platform focusing on the postpartum period was missing in current care, especially by parents experiencing a gap following the intensive care ending after the first week of childbirth. Parents indicated that they would perceive a postpartum platform as a proper source of reliable information on topics regarding breastfeeding, growth, and developmental milestones, but also as a tool to support them in seeking care with appropriate professionals. They also emphasized the need to receive personalized information and the opportunity to ask questions via the platform. MCAs acknowledged added value of providing additional information on topics that they address during the early postpartum period. MCAs as well as clinicians and administrators would guide parents to such a platform for additional support. All user groups experienced disadvantages of using an authentication procedure and filling out extra questionnaires to receive tailored information. Conclusions Our research shows that parents of newborns, MCAs, and clinicians and administrators foresee the additional value of a web-based postpartum platform for at least the whole postpartum period. The platform should be easily accessible and personalized. Content on the platform should contain information regarding breastfeeding, growth, and developmental milestones. A chat function with professionals could be considered as an option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyzette T Laureij
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sophia Children's Hospital, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Leonieke J Breunis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sophia Children's Hospital, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Regine P M Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sophia Children's Hospital, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ageeth N Rosman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sophia Children's Hospital, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Health Care Studies, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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The tissue-specific aspect of genome-wide DNA methylation in newborn and placental tissues: implications for epigenetic epidemiologic studies. J Dev Orig Health Dis 2020; 12:113-123. [PMID: 32327008 DOI: 10.1017/s2040174420000136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic programming is essential for lineage differentiation, embryogenesis and placentation in early pregnancy. In epigenetic association studies, DNA methylation is often examined in DNA derived from white blood cells, although its validity to other tissues of interest remains questionable. Therefore, we investigated the tissue specificity of epigenome-wide DNA methylation in newborn and placental tissues. Umbilical cord white blood cells (UC-WBC, n = 25), umbilical cord blood mononuclear cells (UC-MNC, n = 10), human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC, n = 25) and placental tissue (n = 25) were obtained from 36 uncomplicated pregnancies. Genome-wide DNA methylation was measured by the Illumina HumanMethylation450K BeadChip. Using UC-WBC as a reference tissue, we identified 3595 HUVEC tissue-specific differentially methylated regions (tDMRs) and 11,938 placental tDMRs. Functional enrichment analysis showed that HUVEC and placental tDMRs were involved in embryogenesis, vascular development and regulation of gene expression. No tDMRs were identified in UC-MNC. In conclusion, the extensive amount of genome-wide HUVEC and placental tDMRs underlines the relevance of tissue-specific approaches in future epigenetic association studies, or the use of validated representative tissues for a certain disease of interest, if available. To this purpose, we herewith provide a relevant dataset of paired, tissue-specific, genome-wide methylation measurements in newborn tissues.
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Reijnders IF, Mulders AGMGJ, van der Windt M, Steegers EAP, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. The impact of periconceptional maternal lifestyle on clinical features and biomarkers of placental development and function: a systematic review. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 25:72-94. [PMID: 30407510 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmy037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Worldwide, placenta-related complications contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as pre-eclampsia, fetal growth restriction and preterm birth, with implications for the future health of mothers and offspring. The placenta develops in the periconception period and forms the interface between mother and embryo/fetus. An unhealthy periconceptional maternal lifestyle, such as smoking, alcohol and under- and over-nutrition, can detrimentally influence placental development and function. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The impact of maternal lifestyle on placental health is largely unknown. Therefore, we aim to summarize the evidence of the impact of periconceptional maternal lifestyle on clinical features and biomarkers of placental development and function throughout pregnancy. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive search in Medline, Embase, Pubmed, The Cochrane Library Web of Science and Google Scholar was conducted. The search strategy included keywords related to the maternal lifestyle, smoking, alcohol, caffeine, nutrition (including folic acid supplement intake) and body weight. For placental markers throughout pregnancy, keywords related to ultrasound imaging, serum biomarkers and histological characteristics were used. We included randomized controlled trials and observational studies published between January 2000 and March 2017 and restricted the analysis to singleton pregnancies and maternal periconceptional lifestyle. Methodological quality was scored using the ErasmusAGE tool. A protocol of this systematic review has been registered in PROSPERO International prospective register of systematic reviews (PROSPERO 2016:CRD42016045596). OUTCOMES Of 2593 unique citations found, 82 studies were included. The median quality score was 5 (range: 0-10). The findings revealed that maternal smoking was associated with lower first-trimester placental vascularization flow indices, higher second- and third-trimester resistance of the uterine and umbilical arteries and lower resistance of the middle cerebral artery. Although a negative impact of smoking on placental weight was expected, this was less clear. Alcohol use was associated with a lower placental weight. One study described higher second- and third-trimester placental growth factor (PlGF) levels after periconceptional alcohol use. None of the studies looked at caffeine intake. Adequate nutrition in the first trimester, periconceptional folic acid supplement intake and strong adherence to a Mediterranean diet, were all associated with a lower resistance of the uterine and umbilical arteries in the second and third trimester. A low caloric intake resulted in a lower placental weight, length, breadth, thickness, area and volume. Higher maternal body weight was associated with a larger placenta measured by ultrasound in the second and third trimester of pregnancy or weighed at birth. In addition, higher maternal body weight was associated with decreased PlGF-levels. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Evidence of the impact of periconceptional maternal lifestyle on placental health was demonstrated. However, due to poorly defined lifestyle exposures and time windows of investigation, unstandardized measurements of placenta-related outcomes and small sample sizes of the included studies, a cautious interpretation of the effect estimates is indicated. We suggest that future research should focus more on physiological consequences of unhealthy lifestyle during the critical periconception window. Moreover, we foresee that new evidence will support the development of lifestyle interventions to improve the health of mothers and their offspring from the earliest moment in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignatia F Reijnders
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus Medical Centre, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annemarie G M G J Mulders
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus Medical Centre, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Melissa van der Windt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus Medical Centre, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eric A P Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus Medical Centre, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Hitzerd E, Reijnders IF, Mulders AGMGJ, Koning AHJ, Reiss IKM, Danser AHJ, Steegers-Theunissen RPM, Simons SHP, Koster MPH. Larger First-Trimester Placental Volumetric Parameters Are Associated With Lower Pressure and More Flow-Mediated Vasodilation of the Fetoplacental Vasculature After Delivery. Front Physiol 2020; 11:6. [PMID: 32038310 PMCID: PMC6992654 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore the correlation between in vivo placental volumetric parameters in the first trimester of pregnancy and ex vivo parameters of fetoplacental vascular function after delivery. Methods In ten singleton physiological pregnancies, placental volume (PV) and uteroplacental vascular volume (uPVV) were measured offline in three-dimensional ultrasound volumes at 7, 9, and 11 weeks gestational age (GA) using Virtual Organ Analysis and Virtual Reality. Directly postpartum, term placentas were ex vivo dually perfused and pressure in the fetoplacental vasculature was measured to calculate baseline pressure (pressure after a washout period), pressure increase (pressure after a stepwise fetal flow rate increase of 1 mL/min up to 6 mL/min) and flow-mediated vasodilation (FMVD; reduction in inflow hydrostatic pressure on the fetal side at 6 mL/min flow rate). Correlations between in vivo and ex vivo parameters were assessed by Spearman’s correlation coefficients (R). Results Throughout the first trimester, PV was negatively correlated with pressure increase (Rgrowth = −0.84) and, at 11 weeks GA, also positively correlated with FMVD (R = 0.89). At 7 weeks GA, uPVV and uPVV/PV ratio were negatively correlated with pressure increase (R = −0.58 and R = −0.81, respectively) and positively correlated with FMVD (R = 0.62 and R = 0.90, respectively). Discussion Mainly in the early first trimester, larger placental volumetric parameters are associated with lower pressure and more FMVD in the fetoplacental vasculature after delivery. This may suggest that larger and/or more vascularized placentas in early pregnancy have better adaptive mechanisms and possibly lead to better pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Hitzerd
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Igna F Reijnders
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Annemarie G M G J Mulders
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Anton H J Koning
- Department of Pathology, Clinical Bioinformatics Unit, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Irwin K M Reiss
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - A H Jan Danser
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Sinno H P Simons
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Maria P H Koster
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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Bastiaansen WAP, Rousian M, Steegers-Theunissen RPM, Niessen WJ, Koning A, Klein S. Towards Segmentation and Spatial Alignment of the Human Embryonic Brain Using Deep Learning for Atlas-Based Registration. BIOMEDICAL IMAGE REGISTRATION 2020. [PMCID: PMC7279927 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-50120-4_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Lower S-adenosylmethionine levels and DNA hypomethylation of placental growth factor (PlGF) in placental tissue of early-onset preeclampsia-complicated pregnancies. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0226969. [PMID: 31887212 PMCID: PMC6936822 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The pathophysiology of preeclampsia is largely unknown. Serum placental induced growth factor (PlGF) levels are decreased during second trimester pregnancy. Aberrant DNA methylation is suggested to be involved in the etiology of preeclampsia (PE). We hypothesize that DNA methylation is altered in PE placentas determined the methylation index by measuring placental S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) and S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) levels. In addition, we assessed global DNA methylation status by long-interspersed nuclear element-1 (LINE-1) and DNA methylation status of the PlGF gene. METHODS Placental tissue of 11 early onset PE (EOPE), 11 late onset PE (LOPE) and 60 controls consisting of 25 uncomplicated controls 20 fetal growth restriction (FGR) and 15 preterm births (PTB) controls was collected from a nested case-control study of The Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort. RNA and DNA was isolated from placental tissue and DNA was treated with sodium bisulfite. SAM and SAH levels were measured by LC-ESI-MS/MS. Methylation of LINE-1 and PlGF genes was analyzed by Sequenom Epityper and. mRNA expression of PlGF was assessed with qPCR. Differences were assessed by analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) corrected for gestational age and birth weight. RESULTS Placental SAM levels were significantly lower in placental tissue of EOPE pregnancies compared to PTB controls (mean difference -240 ± 71.4 nmol/g protein, P = 0.01). PlGF DNA methylation was decreased in placental tissue of EOPE cases versus LOPE (mean difference -17.4 ± 5.1%, P = 0.01), uncomplicated controls (mean difference -23.4 ± 5.4%%, P <0.001), FGR controls (mean difference -17.9 ± 4.6%, P = 0.002) and PTB controls (mean difference -11.3 ± 3.8% P = 0.04). No significant differences were observed in SAH, SAM:SAH ratio, LINE-1 DNA methylation and PlGF mRNA expression between groups. DISCUSSION The hypomethylation state of the placenta in EOPE, which is reflected by lower SAM and PlGF DNA hypomethylation underlines the possible role of placental DNA hypomethylation in the pathophysiology of EOPE, which needs further investigation.
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Bijl RC, Cornette JMJ, van den Bosch AE, Duvekot JJ, Molinger J, Willemsen SP, Koning AHJ, Roos-Hesselink JW, Franx A, Steegers-Theunissen RPM, Koster MPH. Study protocol for a prospective cohort study to investigate Hemodynamic Adaptation to Pregnancy and Placenta-related Outcome: the HAPPO study. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e033083. [PMID: 31712350 PMCID: PMC6858161 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-033083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The importance of cardiovascular health in relation to pregnancy outcome is increasingly acknowledged. Women who develop certain pregnancy complications, in particular preeclampsia, are at higher risk for future cardiovascular disease. Independent of its outcome, pregnancy requires a substantial adaptive response of the maternal cardiovascular system. In the Hemodynamic Adaptation to Pregnancy and Placenta-related Outcome (HAPPO) study, we aim to examine longitudinal maternal haemodynamic adaptation to pregnancy from the preconception period onwards. We hypothesise that women who will develop adverse pregnancy outcomes have impaired cardiovascular health before conception, leading to haemodynamic maladaptation to pregnancy and diminished uteroplacental vascular development. METHODS AND ANALYSIS In this prospective cohort study embedded in the Rotterdam periconception cohort, 200 women with a history of placenta-related pregnancy complications (high-risk group) and 100 women with an uncomplicated obstetric history (low-risk group) will be included. At five moments (preconception, first, second and third trimester and postdelivery), women will undergo an extensive examination of the macrocirculatory and microcirculatory system and uteroplacental vascular development. The main outcome measures are differences in maternal haemodynamic adaptation to pregnancy between women with and without placenta-related pregnancy complications. In a multivariate linear mixed model, the relationship between maternal haemodynamic adaptive parameters, (utero)placental vascularisation indices and clinical outcomes (occurrence of pregnancy complications, embryonic and fetal growth trajectories, miscarriage rate, gestational age at delivery, birth weight) will be studied. Subgroup analysis will be performed to study baseline and trajectory differences between high-risk and low-risk women, independent of subsequent pregnancy outcome. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study protocol was approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of the Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands (MEC 2018-150). Results will be disseminated to the medical community by publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at scientific congresses. Also, patient associations will be informed and the public will be informed by dissemination through (social) media. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NL7394 (www.trialregister.nl).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rianne C Bijl
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jérôme M J Cornette
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Johannes J Duvekot
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Molinger
- Department of Intensive Care Adults, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Anesthesiology & Intensive Care Medicine, Human Physiology and Pharmacology Lab (HPPL), Duke Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Arie Franx
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Maria P H Koster
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Gootjes DV, Koster MPH, Willemsen SP, Koning AHJ, Steegers EAP, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. The Impact of Neighbourhood Deprivation on Embryonic Growth Trajectories: Rotterdam Periconception Cohort. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8111913. [PMID: 31717297 PMCID: PMC6912493 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8111913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Neighbourhood deprivation is a risk factor for impaired health and adverse pregnancy outcomes. We investigated whether living in a deprived neighbourhood is associated with embryonic growth. Methods: From the Predict cohort, we studied 566 women who underwent repeated first trimester ultrasound examinations. Crown rump length (CRL; n = 1707) and embryonic volume (EV; n = 1462) were measured using three-dimensional techniques. Neighbourhood deprivation was assessed using the neighbourhood status scores (NSS) of the Dutch Social Cultural Planning office. A high NSS represents a non-deprived neighbourhood. Associations between the NSS and embryonic growth were investigated using linear mixed models. Adjustment was performed for individual-level factors: maternal age, geographic origin, educational level, BMI, folic acid supplement use, fruit and vegetable intake, alcohol use and smoking habits. Results: The NSS was negatively associated with embryonic growth: a higher score (a less deprived neighbourhood) was associated with a smaller CRL and EV; adjusted β: −0.025 (95% CI −0.046, −0.003) and adjusted β: −0.015 (95% CI −0.026, −0.003). At 11 weeks of pregnancy, we observed a 0.55 cm3 smaller EV (7.65 cm3 vs. 7.10 cm3) and 1.08 mm smaller CRL (43.14 mm vs. 42.06 mm) in the highest compared to the lowest category. Conclusion: In deprived neighbourhoods, embryos are larger than in non-deprived neighbourhoods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dionne V. Gootjes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam 3015 GD, The Netherlands (M.P.H.K.); (S.P.W.); (E.A.P.S.)
| | - Maria P. H. Koster
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam 3015 GD, The Netherlands (M.P.H.K.); (S.P.W.); (E.A.P.S.)
| | - Sten P. Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam 3015 GD, The Netherlands (M.P.H.K.); (S.P.W.); (E.A.P.S.)
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam 3015 GD, The Netherlands
| | - Anton H. J. Koning
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam 3015 GD, The Netherlands;
| | - Eric A. P. Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam 3015 GD, The Netherlands (M.P.H.K.); (S.P.W.); (E.A.P.S.)
| | - Régine P. M. Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam 3015 GD, The Netherlands (M.P.H.K.); (S.P.W.); (E.A.P.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-010-703-8255
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Hoek J, Koster MPH, Schoenmakers S, Willemsen SP, Koning AHJ, Steegers EAP, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. Does the father matter? The association between the periconceptional paternal folate status and embryonic growth. Fertil Steril 2019; 111:270-279. [PMID: 30691629 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the association between periconceptional paternal folate status and embryonic growth trajectories in early pregnancy. DESIGN Prospective periconceptional cohort study. SETTING Single tertiary hospital. PATIENT(S) A total of 511 singleton pregnancies, with 303 conceived spontaneously and 208 after in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Crown-rump length (CRL) and embryonic volume (EV) at 7, 9, and 11 weeks of gestation measured offline using three-dimensional ultrasound data and a virtual reality system. RESULT(S) Using the third quartile of paternal red blood cell (RBC) folate levels as reference values, we found statistically significantly negative associations between RBC folate and longitudinal CRL measurements in the second quartile (beta: -0.14 √mm [95% confidence interval (CI), -0.28 to -0.006]) and fourth quartile (beta: -0.19 √mm [95% CI, -0.33 to -0.04]) in spontaneously conceived pregnancies. Comparable results were found for longitudinal EV measurements in the fourth quartile (beta: -0.12 ∛cm3 [95% CI, -0.20 to -0.05]). No statistically significant associations were observed between RBC folate levels and embryonic growth trajectories in IVF-ICSI pregnancies. CONCLUSION(S) These data demonstrate for the first time that low and high periconceptional paternal RBC folate levels are associated with reduced embryonic growth trajectories in spontaneously conceived pregnancies. These data underline the importance of paternal folate status during the periconception period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Hoek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maria P H Koster
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sam Schoenmakers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Anton H J Koning
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eric A P Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Husen SC, Koning IV, Go ATJI, van Graafeiland AW, Willemsen SP, Groenenberg IAL, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. Three-dimensional ultrasound imaging of fetal brain fissures in the growth restricted fetus. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0217538. [PMID: 31120993 PMCID: PMC6532926 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0217538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To examine differences in growth trajectories of fetal brain fissures in the growth restricted fetus (FGR) compared to controls. Methods We selected a subgroup of 227 women with a singleton pregnancy from the Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort. Participants received three-dimensional ultrasound (3D-US) examinations of the fetal brain at 22, 26 and 32 weeks of gestational age (GA). The left and right Sylvian, insula and parieto-occipital fissures (POF) were measured in standardized planes. Linear mixed models with adjustment for potential confounders were applied to estimate differences between the trajectories of brain fissure depth measurements of FGR and controls. Results 22 FGR and 172 controls provided 31 and 504 3D-US respectively for longitudinal brain fissure depth measurements. Success rates for the Sylvian and insula depth measurements were over 80% and for POF over 62% at all GA. In FGR compared to controls, the trajectory of the right Sylvian fissure depth was significantly decreased (ß = -4.30, 95%CI = -8.03;-0.56, p = 0.024) while its growth rate was slightly increased (ß = 0.02, 95%CI = 0.00;0.04, p = 0.04), after adjustment for GA, head circumference, gender, educational level and parity. Conclusions The small differences in brain fissure measurements between 22 and 32 weeks GA in FGR warrant further investigation in larger cohorts with postnatal follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofie C. Husen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Irene V. Koning
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Attie T. J. I. Go
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anne W. van Graafeiland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sten P. Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Irene A. L. Groenenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Régine P. M. Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Paediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Erasmus MC Sophia Children’s Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
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46
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Güzel C, van den Berg CB, Duvekot JJ, Stingl C, van den Bosch TPP, van der Weiden M, Steegers EAP, Steegers‐Theunissen RPM, Luider TM. Quantification of Calcyclin and Heat Shock Protein 90 in Sera from Women with and without Preeclampsia by Mass Spectrometry. Proteomics Clin Appl 2019; 13:e1800181. [PMID: 30417587 PMCID: PMC6588016 DOI: 10.1002/prca.201800181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Revised: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The objective of present study is to determine serum levels and placental distribution of two interacting proteins calcyclin and heat shock protein 90 in preeclampsia. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Maternal serum levels of calcyclin and heat shock protein 90 are compared throughout pregnancy from the first trimester till term among women with preeclampsia (n = 43) and age-matched normotensive pregnant controls (n = 46). A serum-based 2D LC-MS assay using Parallel Reaction Monitoring is applied to quantify both calcyclin and heat shock protein 90. RESULTS Serum levels of calcyclin are significantly lower in patients with preeclampsia in the second trimester of pregnancy as compared to controls (p < 0.05). Serum levels of heat shock protein 90 are significantly higher in patients with preeclampsia in the third trimester as compared to controls (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Both interacting proteins calcyclin and heat shock protein 90 are notably changed in preeclamptic patients compared to controls. Calcyclin is already decreased before the onset of preeclampsia in the second trimester and HSP90 is strongly increased in the third trimester. This suggests that these proteins may play a role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia and ought to be investigated in large cohort studies as molecular biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coşkun Güzel
- Laboratory of Neuro‐Oncology/Clinical and Cancer ProteomicsDepartment of NeurologyErasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam3015 CNRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Caroline B. van den Berg
- Departments of Obstetrics and GynecologyErasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam3015 CNRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Johannes J. Duvekot
- Departments of Obstetrics and GynecologyErasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam3015 CNRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Christoph Stingl
- Laboratory of Neuro‐Oncology/Clinical and Cancer ProteomicsDepartment of NeurologyErasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam3015 CNRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | | | - Marcel van der Weiden
- Department of PathologyErasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam3015 CNRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Eric A. P. Steegers
- Departments of Obstetrics and GynecologyErasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam3015 CNRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | | | - Theo M. Luider
- Laboratory of Neuro‐Oncology/Clinical and Cancer ProteomicsDepartment of NeurologyErasmus University Medical Center Rotterdam3015 CNRotterdamThe Netherlands
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47
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Parisi F, Rousian M, Koning AH, Willemsen SP, Steegers EA, Steegers-Theunissen RP. Effect of human embryonic morphological development on fetal growth parameters: the Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort (Predict Study). Reprod Biomed Online 2019; 38:613-620. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 11/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Bogers H, Rifouna MS, Cohen-Overbeek TE, Koning AHJ, Willemsen SP, van der Spek PJ, Steegers-Theunissen RPM, Exalto N, Steegers EAP. First trimester physiological development of the fetal foot position using three-dimensional ultrasound in virtual reality. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2018; 45:280-288. [PMID: 30450690 PMCID: PMC6587499 DOI: 10.1111/jog.13862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Aim In anatomic studies of the embryo, it has been established that during the development of the lower limb, several changes in foot position can be observed defined as a temporary ‘physiological clubfoot’. The aim of this study was to develop and test a measurement tool for objective documentation of the first trimester foot position in vivo and made an attempt to create a chart for first trimester foot position. Methods We developed a virtual orthopedic protractor for measuring foot positioning using three‐dimensional virtual reality visualization. Three‐dimensional ultrasound volumes of 112 pregnancies of women examined during the first trimester were studied in a BARCO I‐Space. The frontal angle (plantar flexion) and the lateral angle (adduction) between the leg and foot were measured from 8 until 13 weeks gestational age. Results We observed that the frontal angle steadily decreases, whereas the lateral angle first increases, resulting in transient physiological clubfeet position at 10‐ to 11‐week gestation, followed by a decrease to a normal foot position. Conclusion A transient clubfoot position is present during the normal development of the lower limbs, and it has been measured in vivo for the first time. This study emphasizes that a diagnosis of congenital clubfoot should not be made in the first trimester of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hein Bogers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maria S Rifouna
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Titia E Cohen-Overbeek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Anton H J Koning
- Department of Bioinformatics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Peter J van der Spek
- Department of Bioinformatics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Régine P M Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Niek Exalto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eric A P Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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49
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Oostingh EC, de Vos I, Ham AC, Brouwer-Brolsma EM, Willemsen SP, Eggink AJ, Steegers EAP, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. No independent associations between preconception paternal dietary patterns and embryonic growth; the Predict Study. Clin Nutr 2018; 38:2333-2341. [PMID: 30396773 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnu.2018.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIM Several studies show the importance of periconceptional maternal dietary patterns on human embryonic growth. Healthy paternal nutrition has been associated with better semen quality and fecundability, however, evidence on the impact on pregnancy outcome is limited. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the association between preconception paternal dietary patterns and first trimester embryonic growth using the parameters longitudinal crown-rump length (CRL) and embryonic volume (EV). METHODS A total of 638 couples were enrolled in the Rotterdam Periconceptional Cohort and received longitudinal three dimensional transvaginal ultrasound scans from 7+0 up to 12+0 weeks of gestation. Virtual reality software was used to perform offline measurements of the embryonic CRL and EV. Food frequency questionnaires (FFQ) were used to estimate habitual food intake in couples. Principal component analysis (PCA) was performed to identify paternal and maternal dietary patterns. Linear mixed models adjusted for potential confounders were applied to analyze associations between paternal and maternal dietary patterns and embryonic growth parameters. RESULTS The paternal dietary patterns retrieved were identified as "Whole wheat grains and Vegetables", "Sauces and Snacks Refined Grains", "Fish and Legumes" and explained 27.5% of the total variance of the dietary intake. No significant additional effects, independent of maternal dietary patters and other maternal and paternal potential confounders, were shown of these paternal dietary patterns on embryonic growth in spontaneous or IVF/ICSI pregnancies. CONCLUSION No significant effects of paternal dietary patterns independent of maternal dietary patters and other parental potential confounders on embryonic growth parameters could be established in spontaneous or IVF/ICSI pregnancies. The biological importance of paternal nutrition on semen quality, however, supports the need of periconceptional tailored nutritional counselling of couples trying to conceive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsje C Oostingh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Iris de Vos
- Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University, PO Box 17, 6700 AA Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Annelies C Ham
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Elske M Brouwer-Brolsma
- Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University, PO Box 17, 6700 AA Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Alex J Eggink
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eric A P Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Régine P M Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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50
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Bogers H, Baken L, Cohen-Overbeek TE, Koning AHJ, Willemsen SP, van der Spek PJ, Exalto N, Steegers EAP. Evaluation of First-Trimester Physiological Midgut Herniation Using Three-Dimensional Ultrasound. Fetal Diagn Ther 2018; 45:332-338. [PMID: 30110700 DOI: 10.1159/000489260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to investigate the development of midgut herniation in vivo using three-dimensional (3D) ultrasonographic volume and distance measurements and to create reference data for physiological midgut herniation in ongoing pregnancies in a tertiary hospital population. MATERIALS AND METHODS The transvaginal 3D ultrasound volumes of 112 women, seen weekly during the first trimester of pregnancy, were obtained and subsequently analysed in a virtual reality environment. The width of the umbilical cord insertion, the maximum diameter of the umbilical cord, and the volume of midgut herniation were measured from 6 until 13 weeks gestational age (GA). RESULTS All parameters had a positive relation with GA, crown-rump length, and abdominal circumference. In approximately 1 of 10 volumes no midgut herniation could be observed at 9 and 10 weeks GA. In 5.0% of the fetuses the presence of midgut herniation could still be visualised at 12 weeks GA. CONCLUSION Reference charts for several dimensions of physiological midgut herniation were created. In the future, our data might be used as a reference in the first trimester for comparison in case of a suspected pathological omphalocele.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hein Bogers
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands,
| | - Leonie Baken
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Titia E Cohen-Overbeek
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anton H J Koning
- Department of Bioinformatics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peter J van der Spek
- Department of Bioinformatics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Niek Exalto
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eric A P Steegers
- Division of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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