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Zhao QH, Song YW, Chen J, Zhou X, Xie JL, Yao QP, Dong QY, Feng C, Zhou LM, Fu WP, Jin M. Embryo Transfer Strategies for Women with Recurrent Implantation Failure During the Frozen-thawed Embryo Transfer Cycles: Sequential Embryo Transfer or Double-blastocyst Transfer? Curr Med Sci 2024; 44:212-222. [PMID: 38393529 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-024-2827-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Both sequential embryo transfer (SeET) and double-blastocyst transfer (DBT) can serve as embryo transfer strategies for women with recurrent implantation failure (RIF). This study aims to compare the effects of SeET and DBT on pregnancy outcomes. METHODS Totally, 261 frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles of 243 RIF women were included in this multicenter retrospective analysis. According to different embryo quality and transfer strategies, they were divided into four groups: group A, good-quality SeET (GQ-SeET, n=38 cycles); group B, poor-quality or mixed-quality SeET (PQ/MQ-SeET, n=31 cycles); group C, good-quality DBT (GQ-DBT, n=121 cycles); and group D, poor-quality or mixed-quality DBT (PQ/MQ-DBT, n=71 cycles). The main outcome, clinical pregnancy rate, was compared, and the generalized estimating equation (GEE) model was used to correct potential confounders that might impact pregnancy outcomes. RESULTS GQ-DBT achieved a significantly higher clinical pregnancy rate (aOR 2.588, 95% CI 1.267-5.284, P=0.009) and live birth rate (aOR 3.082, 95% CI 1.482-6.412, P=0.003) than PQ/MQ-DBT. Similarly, the clinical pregnancy rate was significantly higher in GQ-SeET than in PQ/MQ-SeET (aOR 4.047, 95% CI 1.218-13.450, P=0.023). The pregnancy outcomes of GQ-SeET were not significantly different from those of GQ-DBT, and the same results were found between PQ/MQ-SeET and PQ/MQ-DBT. CONCLUSION SeET relative to DBT did not seem to improve pregnancy outcomes for RIF patients if the embryo quality was comparable between the two groups. Better clinical pregnancy outcomes could be obtained by transferring good-quality embryos, no matter whether in SeET or DBT. Embryo quality plays a more important role in pregnancy outcomes for RIF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao-Hang Zhao
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310052, China
| | - Yu-Wei Song
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310052, China
| | - Jian Chen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310052, China
| | - Xiang Zhou
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310052, China
| | - Ji-Lai Xie
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310052, China
| | - Qiu-Ping Yao
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310052, China
- Jiaxing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Jiaxing, 314051, China
| | - Qi-Yin Dong
- Huzhou Maternity and Child Care Hospital, Huzhou, 313002, China
| | - Chun Feng
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310052, China
| | - Li-Ming Zhou
- Ningbo Women and Children's Hospital, Ningbo, 315000, China
| | - Wei-Ping Fu
- Jiaxing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Jiaxing, 314051, China.
| | - Min Jin
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310052, China.
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Sousa LG, Alves P, Teixeira N, Correia-da-Silva G, Fonseca BM. Alterations in the pro-resolving lipid mediator machinery within first trimester maternal tissue: Implications in decidualization and miscarriage risk. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2024; 201:102619. [PMID: 38788346 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2024.102619] [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: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
A pivotal event in uterine receptivity and human reproduction is the differentiation of endometrial stromal cells into decidual cells, known as decidualization. Decidualization is interlinked with its inflammatory environment. Our study aimed to investigate the presence and role of pro-resolving lipid mediators in first trimester maternal tissue. We assessed the levels of LXA4 and RvD1, along with their metabolic LOX enzymes, in elective (control) and sporadic miscarriage samples. We investigated the effects of LXA4 and RvD1 on decidualization using primary endometrial stromal cells and the immortalized endometrial stromal St-T1b cell line. The upregulation of 12- and 15-LOX expression was observed in pregnancy tissue after sporadic miscarriage, suggesting an inflammatory imbalance. Furthermore, incubation with these lipid mediators led to a decrease in decidualization biomarkers PRL and IGFBP-1, accompanied by morphological changes indicative of aberrant differentiation. The expression of LOX enzymes in decidual natural killer cells suggests their involvement in regulating the inflammatory surroundings and the extent of decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luísa G Sousa
- UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Laboratório de Bioquímica, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Alves
- UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Laboratório de Bioquímica, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Natércia Teixeira
- UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Laboratório de Bioquímica, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Georgina Correia-da-Silva
- UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Laboratório de Bioquímica, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Bruno M Fonseca
- UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Laboratório de Bioquímica, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, Universidade do Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; Escola Superior de Saúde, Instituto Politécnico de Viana do Castelo (IPVC), 4900-347 Viana do Castelo, Portugal.
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Warren BD, Ahn SH, McGinnis LK, Grzesiak G, Su RW, Fazleabas AT, Christenson LK, Petroff BK, Petroff MG. Autoimmune Regulator is required in female mice for optimal embryonic development and implantation†. Biol Reprod 2019; 100:1492-1504. [PMID: 30770532 PMCID: PMC6561863 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2018] [Revised: 11/18/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune Regulator (AIRE) regulates central immune tolerance by inducing expression of tissue-restricted antigens in thymic medullary epithelial cells, thereby ensuring elimination of autoreactive T cells. Aire mutations in humans and targeted Aire deletion in mice result in multiorgan autoimmune disease, known in humans as autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type 1 (APS-1). APS-1 is characterized by the presence of adrenal insufficiency, chronic mucosal candidiasis, and/or hypoparathyroidism. Additionally, females often present with gonadal insufficiency and infertility. Aire-deficiency (KO) in mice results in oophoritis and age-dependent depletion of follicular reserves. Here, we found that while the majority of young 6-week-old Aire-KO females had normal follicular reserves, mating behavior, and ovulation rates, 50% of females experienced embryonic loss between gestation day (GD) 5.5 and 7.5 that could not be attributed to insufficient progesterone production or decidualization. The quality of GD0.5 embryos recovered from Aire KO mice was reduced, and when cultured in vitro, embryos displayed limited developmental capacity in comparison to those recovered from wild-type (WT) mice. Further, embryos flushed from Aire KO dams at GD3.5 were developmentally delayed in comparison to WT controls and had reduced trophoblastic outgrowth in vitro. We conclude that AIRE does not play a direct role in uterine decidualization. Rather, reduced fertility of Aire-deficient females is likely due to multiple factors, including oophoritis, delayed preimplantation development, and compromised implantation. These effects may be explained by autoimmune targeting of the ovary, embryo, or both. Alternatively, altered embryonic development could be due to a direct role for AIRE in early embryogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryce D Warren
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Soo H Ahn
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Lynda K McGinnis
- Department of Physiology and Integrative Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Geoffrey Grzesiak
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Ren-Wei Su
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Asgerally T Fazleabas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
| | - Lane K Christenson
- Department of Physiology and Integrative Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Brian K Petroff
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Margaret G Petroff
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
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Development of an in vitro model to study uterine functions and early implantation using rat uterine explants. Cell Tissue Res 2017; 370:501-512. [PMID: 28956162 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-017-2679-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted to develop an in vitro model using rat uterine explants to explore complex uterine functions. Rat uterine explants (1-2 mm) were isolated, cultured and further characterized. Steroid hormone treatment of cultured explants showed that both Muc1 and Pr were significantly up-regulated (P < 0.05) by E2. Areg was significantly up-regulated (P < 0.05) by P4 and Igfbp1 was significantly up-regulated (P < 0.05) by the combination of E2 and P4, although, in rat, Igfbp1 is E2-dependent. In vitro decidualization of cultured explants was induced and two potential markers of decidualization, Prl8a2 and Bmp2, were examined. Real-time quantitative PCR data revealed that both Prl8a2 and Bmp2 were significantly up-regulated (P < 0.05) in MPA- and db-cAMP-treated explants compared to the control group of explants. Then, an individual hatched blastocyst and cultured explant was placed in a 96-well (round-bottom U-shaped) plate. Co-culture results showed that stable attachments were observed after 48 h, where embryos were stably attached to the explants and could not be dislodged after mild shaking and/or pipetting. The rates of attachment of embryos to the explants were increased significantly in the P4-treated group (63.6%) compared to the control group (35.5%), after steroid hormone treatment. The rates of attachment were reduced significantly in the E2-treated group (0.0%), where no stable attachments were observed. Despite the necessity of comprehensive investigation, our results suggest that the cultured rat uterine explants can be a useful in vitro model to study uterine functions and early implantation.
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Gu J, Fan J, Xu Y, Xie Y, Gong T, Kong Y. Regulatory function of β1,4-galactosyltransferase I expression on Lewis-Y glycan and embryo implantation. Gene 2015; 562:220-5. [PMID: 25735572 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2015.02.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2014] [Revised: 02/15/2015] [Accepted: 02/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
β1,4-Galactosyltransferase I (β1,4-GalT-I), a key enzyme in glycobiology, mediates several biological mechanisms. However, the correlation between β-1,4-GalT-I expression in the uterine endometrium and embryo implantation remains unclear. This study aims to elucidate the relationship between β1,4-GalT-I and Lewis(Y) (Le(Y)) glycan during embryo implantation. So far, using green fluorescent protein as an indicator, β1,4-GalT-I interference plasmid (pcDNA3.0-siGalT I), overexpression plasmid (pcDNA3.0-HA-GalT I), interference control plasmid (control pcDNA3.0-siGalT I), and empty vector (pcDNA3.0) were transfected into human uterine epithelial RL95-2 cells that imitate the receptive endometrium. Invasive embryos at pre-implantation and treated RL95-2 cells were co-cultured to determine embryo attachment in each of the transfection groups. The results showed that plasmid transfection was successful in all the groups. β1,4-GalT-I and Fucosyltransferase 1 (FUT1) gene expression declined in the interference group, and the synthesis of Le(Y) decreased accordingly, but the expression of this antigen increased in the overexpression group. After co-culturing of the embryos and 36h transfection of RL95-2, the results of these in vitro implantation models showed that the attachment rate was lower in the interference group (30.0 ± 0.2%) than in the untreated group (50.0 ± 0.6%), empty vector group (50.0 ± 0.2%), and interference control group (46.7 ± 0.6%), however, it was highest in the overexpression group (70.0 ± 0.2%). These results indicated that β1,4-galactosyltransferase I possibly regulate mutual uterus-embryo adhesion and embryo implantation by regulating cell surface Le(Y) glycan expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Gu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Glycobiology and Glycoengineering, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China; Reproduction Medicine Center, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou 221009, China
| | - Jianhui Fan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Glycobiology and Glycoengineering, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Yuefei Xu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Glycobiology and Glycoengineering, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Yunpeng Xie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Glycobiology and Glycoengineering, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Ting Gong
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Glycobiology and Glycoengineering, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China
| | - Ying Kong
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Glycobiology and Glycoengineering, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, China.
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Qu T, Zhang SM, Yu LL, Zhang S, Yuan DZ, Xu Q, Zhang JH, He YP, Yue LM. Relocalisation and activation of integrins induced rapidly by oestrogen via G-protein-coupled receptor 30 in mouse blastocysts. Reprod Fertil Dev 2015; 28:RD14227. [PMID: 25950704 DOI: 10.1071/rd14227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2014] [Accepted: 03/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Integrins are the dominant and final adhesion molecules in the attachment process between the blastocysts and endometrium. It is necessary for oestrogen to rapidly activate mouse blastocysts so that they attach to the endometrial epithelium. Our previous study suggested that oestrogen can rapidly induce an increase in intracellular calcium in mouse blastocysts via G-protein-coupled receptor 30 (GPR30). Thus, we deduced that integrins may be involved in GPR30 mediation of the fast effect of oestrogen on mouse blastocysts in implantation. To prove our hypothesis, we used immunofluorescence staining and in vitro coculture of mouse blastocysts and endometrial epithelial cell line (EECs), Ishikawa cells, in the present study. We found that αv and β1 integrin clustered in mouse blastocysts, and that β3 integrin was relocalised to the apical membrane of blastocyst cells when embryos were treated with 1 μM 17β-estradiol (E2), 1 μM E2 conjugated to bovine serum albumin (E2-BSA) and 1 μM G-1, a specific GPR30 agonist, for 30 min respectively, whereas pretreatment with 1 μM G15, a specific GPR30 antagonist, and 5 μM 1,2-Bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N'',N''-tetraacetic acid tetrakis (acetoxymethyl ester)(BAPTA/AM), a cellular Ca2+ chelator, blocked the localisation of integrins induced by oestrogen via GPR30 in mouse blastocyst cells. E2, E2-BSA and G-1 increased the fibronectin (FN)-binding activity of integrins in blastocysts, whereas G15 and BAPTA/AM blocked the activation of integrins induced by oestrogen via GPR30 in mouse blastocysts. Inhibition of integrins by Arg-Gly-Asp peptide in blastocysts resulted in their failure to adhere to EECs in vitro, even if oestrogen or G-1 was provided. Together, the results indicate the fast effect of oestrogen via the GPR30 membrane receptor further induces relocalisation and activation of integrins in mouse blastocysts, which play important roles in the adhesion of blastocysts to EECs.
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7
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Yu LL, Qu T, Zhang SM, Yuan DZ, Xu Q, Zhang JH, He YP, Yue LM. GPR30 Mediates the Fast Effect of Estrogen on Mouse Blastocyst and its Role in Implantation. Reprod Sci 2015; 22:1312-20. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719115578921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lin-lin Yu
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Preclinical and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Infertility and Sterility, Chengdu Institute of Family Planning, Chengdu, China
| | - Ting Qu
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Preclinical and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shi-mao Zhang
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Preclinical and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dong-zhi Yuan
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Preclinical and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qian Xu
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Preclinical and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jin-hu Zhang
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Preclinical and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ya-ping He
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Preclinical and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Li-min Yue
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Preclinical and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Chen Q, Zhang Y, Elad D, Jaffa AJ, Cao Y, Ye X, Duan E. Navigating the site for embryo implantation: Biomechanical and molecular regulation of intrauterine embryo distribution. Mol Aspects Med 2013; 34:1024-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2012.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2012] [Accepted: 07/31/2012] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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9
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Heng S, Cervero A, Simon C, Stephens AN, Li Y, Zhang J, Paule S, Rainczuk A, Singh H, Quinonero A, Tapia A, Velasquez L, Salamonsen L, Rombauts LJF, Nie G. Proprotein convertase 5/6 is critical for embryo implantation in women: regulating receptivity by cleaving EBP50, modulating ezrin binding, and membrane-cytoskeletal interactions. Endocrinology 2011; 152:5041-52. [PMID: 21971156 DOI: 10.1210/en.2011-1273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Establishment of endometrial receptivity is vital for successful embryo implantation; its failure causes infertility. Epithelial receptivity acquisition involves dramatic structural changes in the plasma membrane and cytoskeleton. Proprotein convertase 5/6 (PC6), a serine protease of the proprotein convertase (PC) family, is up-regulated in the human endometrium specifically at the time of epithelial receptivity and stromal cell decidualization. PC6 is the only PC member tightly regulated in this manner. The current study addressed the importance and mechanisms of PC6 action in regulating receptivity in women. PC6 was dysregulated in the endometrial epithelium during the window of implantation in infertile women of three demographically different cohorts. Its critical role in receptivity was evidenced by a significant reduction in mouse blastocyst attachment of endometrial epithelial cells after PC6 knockdown by small interfering RNA. Using a proteomic approach, we discovered that PC6 cleaved the key scaffolding protein, ezrin-radixin-moesin binding phosphoprotein 50 (EBP50), thereby profoundly affecting its interaction with binding protein ezrin (a key protein bridging actin filaments and plasma membrane), EBP50/ezrin cellular localization, and cytoskeleton-membrane connections. We further validated this novel PC6 regulation of receptivity in human endometrium in vivo in fertile vs. infertile patients. These results strongly indicate that PC6 plays a key role in regulating fundamental cellular remodeling processes, such as plasma membrane transformation and membrane-cytoskeletal interface reorganization. PC6 cleavage of a crucial scaffolding protein EBP50, thereby profoundly regulating membrane-cytoskeletal reorganization, greatly extends the current knowledge of PC biology and provides substantial new mechanistic insight into the fields of reproduction, basic cellular biology, and PC biochemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophea Heng
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
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Yang JZ, Jiang X, Dong J, Guo J, Chen H, Tsang LL, Chung YW, Zhang X, Chan HC. Abnormally enhanced cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator-mediated apoptosis in endometrial cells contributes to impaired embryo implantation in controlled ovarian hyperstimulation. Fertil Steril 2011; 95:2100-6, 2106.e1-2. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.02.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2010] [Revised: 02/16/2011] [Accepted: 02/16/2011] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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Injection of day 2 embryo culture supernatant into the uterine cavity did not improve the pregnancy rate of day 3 embryo transfer in patients who underwent in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer: a randomized clinical trial. Fertil Steril 2009; 93:2216-21. [PMID: 19439284 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.01.098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2008] [Revised: 01/11/2009] [Accepted: 01/14/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effectiveness of uterine cavity injection of day 2 embryo culture supernatant before day 3 embryo transfer in patients who are undergoing in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer. DESIGN Randomized controlled trial. SETTING A reproductive medical centre. PATIENT(S) A total of 90 infertile women, 45 of them in the study group and 45 in the control group. INTERVENTION(S) Uterine cavity infection of day 2 embryo culture supernatant before day 3 embryo transfer. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Embryo implantation rate and pregnancy rate. RESULT(S) The pregnancy versus implantation rates in the study group and control group were 48.9% versus 44.4% and 27.3% versus 22.1%, respectively. Although both pregnancy and implantation rates in the study group were higher than those in the control group, no statistically significant differences were found in these two parameters. CONCLUSION(S) Injection of day 2 embryo culture supernatant into the uterine cavity cannot improve the implantation and pregnancy rates of day 3 embryo transfer.
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Srinivasan KR, Blesson CS, Fatima I, Kitchlu S, Jain SK, Mehrotra PK, Dwivedi A. Expression of alphaVbeta3 integrin in rat endometrial epithelial cells and its functional role during implantation. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2009; 160:124-33. [PMID: 19027743 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2008.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2008] [Revised: 10/08/2008] [Accepted: 10/26/2008] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The alpha(V)beta(3) integrin as a marker of endometrial receptivity has been well established in human and other mammalian species; however, its expression is still not known in rats. Our objective was to establish the expression of alpha(V)beta(3) integrin as a marker of endometrial receptivity in rat and to further prove its role in implantation by function-blocking studies in this species. Immunocytochemical, immunohistochemical and flow-cytometric studies were performed in rat endometrial epithelial cells (EEC) to demonstrate the expression of alpha(V)beta(3) integrin during non-receptive, pre-receptive and receptive phases of the uterus. Results revealed positive immunocytochemical staining for alpha(v) and beta(3) subunits on the surface of EEC of days 4 and 5p.c. (post-coitum), but the intensity was higher in cells of day 5p.c. Flow-cytometric study revealed higher level of alpha(V)beta(3) on day 5p.c. as compared to day 4p.c. and non-pregnant animals. Immunohistochemical analysis of uterine tissue also revealed that the alpha(V)beta(3) expression in LE was higher on day 5p.c. morning as compared to that observed on day 4p.c. In addition, the expression of beta(3) subunit was not evident in rats receiving ormeloxifene, an agent known to inhibit the uterine receptivity. Immunoblotting experiments also revealed higher expression of uterine beta(3) on day 5p.c. On day 6, expression of beta(3) was high in implantation sites than on inter-implantation sites. In immature ovariectomized rats, alpha(V)beta(3) was up-regulated by progesterone and by a combination of estrogen and progesterone. The expression of alpha(V)beta(3) was also up-regulated in EEC co-cultured with blastocysts. All the agents used for function-blocking studies showed significant reduction in the number of implantation sites in treated horn as compared to sham control horn. The present study has successfully demonstrated the expression of alpha(V)beta(3) in rat EEC as a marker of endometrial receptivity and showed that this molecule is indispensable for the process of implantation in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kokatam R Srinivasan
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, P.O. Box-173, Chattar Manzil Palace, Lucknow 226 001, India
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Kimber SJ. Blastocyst implantation:the adhesion cascade. REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE AND ASSISTED REPRODUCTIVE TECHNIQUES 2008. [DOI: 10.3109/9780203091500.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Cervero A, Domínguez F, Horcajadas JA, Quiñonero A, Pellicer A, Simón C. Embryonic adhesion is not affected by endometrial leptin receptor gene silencing. Fertil Steril 2007; 88:1086-92. [PMID: 17336980 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.12.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2006] [Revised: 12/22/2006] [Accepted: 12/22/2006] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In rodents, evidence suggests that the leptin system is mandatory for embryonic implantation. We aimed to investigate the functional relevance of the endometrial leptin receptor (OB-R) in the adhesion phase of human implantation. DESIGN We used an in vitro model for embryonic adhesion, composed of a human endometrial cell line (HEC1-A) and B6C3F1 mouse embryos. The OB-R gene was silenced in a stable manner by RNA interference, and embryonic adhesion rates were analyzed. SETTING Research laboratory at a university-affiliated center. INTERVENTION(S) RNA interference. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Embryonic adhesion in cells treated with OB-R RNAi. RESULT(S) The OB-R shRNA-transfected cells exhibited up to 80% lower OB-R mRNA levels than those of cells nontransfected or transfected with scrambled shRNA. The OB-R protein was also highly diminished in the stable OB-R shRNA-transfected HEC1A cells, whereas OAS1 expression was similar in both nontransfected and transfected cells. Embryonic adhesion rate was similar in nontransfected (94%) and HEC1-A transfected cells with a scrambled sequence (94%) or with OB-R silencing sequence (92%). CONCLUSION(S) Knocking down the OB-R gene in a human endometrial cell line has no effect on the embryonic adhesion rate. Nevertheless, the functional relevance of this system can not be excluded in other phases of embryonic implantation, such as the invasion phase. Moreover, we describe a new approach to the functional analysis of candidate molecules implicated in blastocyst adhesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Cervero
- Fundación IVI, Instituto Universitario IVI, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
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16
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Campbell EA, O'Hara L, Catalano RD, Sharkey AM, Freeman TC, Johnson MH. Temporal expression profiling of the uterine luminal epithelium of the pseudo-pregnant mouse suggests receptivity to the fertilized egg is associated with complex transcriptional changes. Hum Reprod 2006; 21:2495-513. [PMID: 16790611 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/del195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The molecular basis of changes underlying the altered sensitivity of the uterine luminal epithelium (LE) to the embryo over the peri-implantation period is not fully understood. METHODS Microarray analysis was performed on purified LE isolated from the pseudo-pregnant mouse uterus at 12-h intervals from pre-receptivity through the implantation window to refractoriness. The aim was to identify genes whose expression changes in the LE during this period. RESULTS A total of 447 transcripts were identified whose abundance changed more than 2-fold in the LE but which did not change in the underlying stroma (S) and glands. Six major patterns of changing expression were noted. Of the 447 genes, 140 were expressed in LE at least 15-fold higher than in S and glandular epithelium (GE) (101 of these more than 20-fold). Detailed spatiotemporal expression profiles were derived for several genes previously implicated in implantation (including Edg7, Ptgs1, Pla2g4a and Alox15). CONCLUSIONS Functional changes in LE receptivity are characterized by changing constellations of gene expression. Pre-receptivity has a different molecular footprint to refractoriness. Because we have used the pseudo-pregnant mouse model, these changes are driven solely by endocrine signals rather than events downstream of embryo attachment. Some of these genes have been described in previous microarray studies on endometrium, but for the majority, this is the first time they have been implicated in implantation. The 140 genes enriched in the LE greatly expand the list of epithelial markers and provide many novel candidates for further studies to identify genes playing important roles in receptivity and embryo attachment.
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Affiliation(s)
- E A Campbell
- Department of Anatomy, MRC Rosalind Franklin Centre for Genomics Research, Cambridge, UK
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17
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Utsunomiya T, Ito H, Hirai K, Otsu E, Watanabe H, Mori T. Developmentally retarded frozen blastocysts can be rescued by synchronizing culture prior to transfer. Reprod Biomed Online 2006; 12:622-9. [PMID: 16790109 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)61189-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Asynchrony between embryo development and endometrial differentiation is the limiting step of successful pregnancy in assisted reproduction. The aim of this study was to investigate whether or not post-thaw synchronization culture of day 5-6 frozen embryos, prior to transfer, with endometrial differentiation resulted in pregnancy. A total of 142 cycles of 134 patients were transferred in three protocols. Blastocysts with cavities larger than half of the entire blastocyst volume were transferred without synchronizing culture on day 5 or 6 of progesterone commencement (P5/6) in hormone replacement treatment cycles (protocol 1). Blastocysts with cavitation below half of the entire blastocyst were cultured for 1 or 2 days after thawing prior to transfer on P5 or P6 (protocol 2). Morulae and very early stage blastocysts were thawed on the days corresponding to P5 and P6, and only the embryos that reached expanded or hatching blastocysts were transferred on P7 without synchronizing culture (protocol 3). Pregnancy rate in protocol 2 (32.0%) was comparable with that of protocol 1 (35.0%). It is concluded that developmentally retarded frozen embryos can be rescued with synchronizing culture prior to transfer by evading asynchrony.
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Matorras R, Matorras F, Mendoza R, Rodríguez M, Remohí J, Rodríguez-Escudero FJ, Simón C. The implantation of every embryo facilitates the chances of the remaining embryos to implant in an IVF programme: a mathematical model to predict pregnancy and multiple pregnancy rates. Hum Reprod 2005; 20:2923-31. [PMID: 16037116 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dei129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aimed to assess the validity of a theoretical mathematical model to predict the pregnancy rate and the multiple pregnancy rate in IVF/oocyte donation programmes on the basis of the implantation rate and the number of transferred embryos. METHODS A total of 1835 embryo transfers corresponding to three different programmes in two centres with different implantation rates were analysed. Pregnancy and multiple pregnancy rates observed in the aforementioned programmes were compared with those obtained following different mathematical models. Four models were tested: binomial model, ground model, maternal variability model and collaborative model. The goodness of fit was performed by means of the maximum likelihood fit method. RESULTS The binomial model could not predict the pregnancy rate, and especially the multiple pregnancy rate. The multiple pregnancy rate predicted following the binomial model was much lower than observed, up to 40-fold reduced. Ground model and maternal variability model adjusted to the data with more precision, but were still not accurate. Finally, the collaborative model reproduced with very great accuracy both pregnancy rate and the multiple pregnancy rate. A collaborative parameter of 22% was found, implying that the implantation probability of each embryo is increased by 22% for every embryo previously implanted. CONCLUSIONS Embryonic implantation does not follow a binomial law, showing that the implantation is not independent from the number of embryos implanted. The best fit to the data is obtained following a collaborative model by which the implantation of one embryo is facilitated by the implantation of other embryo(s). The mathematical formula of the collaborative model predicts very accurately the pregnancy rate and the multiple pregnancy rate in IVF/oocyte donation programmes, based on the implantation rate of this specific programme and the number of embryos transferred up to five embryos. We recommend using the aforementioned formula to quantify the pregnancy rate and the risk of multiple pregnancy in the counselling of the infertile couple at embryo transfer. Such a formula is freely available at www.ifca.unican.es/matorras/mathpreg/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Matorras
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital de Cruces, Baracaldo, Vizcaya, País Vasco University, Spain.
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Emiliani S, Delbaere A, Devreker F, Englert Y. Embryo-maternal interactive factors regulating the implantation process: implications in assisted reproductive. Reprod Biomed Online 2005; 10:527-40. [PMID: 15901462 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60831-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The embryo-maternal dialogue that starts very early in the life of the embryo is crucial for its own implantation. A disturbance in this dialogue is the major reason for which 60% of all pregnancies are terminated at the end of the periimplantation period. Many studies have been performed to improve the understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in this dialogue. Both partners, the mother and the embryo, are equally involved in this exchange of signals. Much progress has been done in understanding the role of (i) chorionic gonadotrophin, (ii) growth factors and cytokines, and (iii) steroid hormones and other mediators, produced either by the embryo, by the mother, or by both, during the peri-implantation period. Today it is clear that their production dictates changes in the endometrium, in the immunological system of the mother and in embryo metabolism, that enable the embryo to implant. Knowledge of the molecular mechanisms involved in the embryo-maternal interaction are reviewed in this article.
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20
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Goto S, Shiotani M, Kitagawa M, Kadowaki T, Noda Y. Effectiveness of two-step (consecutive) embryo transfer in patients who have two embryos on day 2: comparison with cleavage-stage embryo transfer. Fertil Steril 2005; 83:721-3. [PMID: 15749504 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2004.07.974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2004] [Revised: 07/22/2004] [Accepted: 07/22/2004] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effectiveness, for patients who have only two embryos on day 2, of a two-step (consecutive) embryo transfer (ET) procedure in which a cleaved embryo is transferred on day 2 and a single blastocyst is transferred on day 5. DESIGN Observational comparative study. SETTING Private IVF clinic. PATIENT(S) Ninety two-step ET cycles were performed in patients who had two embryos on day 2 (two-step group). Ninety day-2 ET cycles were performed in age- and infertility-matched patients who had two embryos on day 2 (control group). INTERVENTION(S) Cleaved-ET, extended culture of one embryo, and a second transfer of a blastocyst. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Implantation and pregnancy rates. RESULT(S) The pregnancy and implantation rates in the two-step group (respectively 33.3% and 17.2%) were significantly higher than those in the control group (18.9% and 9.4%). Thirty-nine of the patients in the two-step group (43.3%) could not proceed to the second step of ET because no viable blastocyst could be obtained, but four of them conceived anyway. CONCLUSION(S) Taking advantage of both day-2 ET and blastocyst transfer, two-step ET may be an effective option for ET in patients who have an insufficient number of embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakae Goto
- Hanabusa Women's Clinic, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan.
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21
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Yanaihara A, Iwasaki S, Okai T. Causes and Treatment of Implantation Failure. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol 2005. [DOI: 10.1016/s1028-4559(09)60102-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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22
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Rosario GX, Modi DN, Sachdeva G, Manjramkar DD, Puri CP. Morphological events in the primate endometrium in the presence of a preimplantation embryo, detected by the serum preimplantation factor bioassay. Hum Reprod 2005; 20:61-71. [PMID: 15576397 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deh534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hormonal modulation of the endometrium towards receptivity is well established; however, the role of embryonic stimuli in modulation of the endometrium prior to implantation, especially in primates, is unknown. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the endometrial histology when the embryo was present in its vicinity prior to implantation. METHODS Preimplantation factor (PIF) bioassay was used as a tool to detect the presence of an embryo in the uterine lumen of mated bonnet monkeys (Macaca radiata) (n=9). The control group comprised seven non-mated animals. The specificity of the PIF bioassay for the presence of an embryo was tested by studies in pregnant humans and monkeys. The effects of embryonic stimuli on the endometrial morphology were analysed by routine haematoxylin-eosin staining. The expressions of CD34, an endothelial cell marker, alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA), a marker for blood vessel maturation, and prolactin, a marker of endometrial decidualization, were studied by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS That PIF is embryo specific was established by its presence in sera of pregnant humans, monkeys and also in embryo culture media. Six mated bonnet monkeys were found to be PIF positive. Morphologically, the endometria from these PIF-positive animals showed the presence of the pre-epithelial plaque reaction, increased angiogenesis and stromal compaction. The significantly increased number of CD34- and alpha-SMA-positive blood vessels (P<0.05) in the endometria of PIF-positive animals indicated increased angiogenesis in response to embryonic stimuli. The endometrial expression of immunoreactive prolactin was also significantly increased (P<0.05) in the PIF-positive animals, indicating decidualization. CONCLUSIONS Using PIF as a marker to detect early pregnancy in bonnet monkeys, we have shown that the embryo induces a pre-epithelial plaque type of reaction, increased angiogenesis and decidual reaction in the endometrium prior to implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gracy X Rosario
- Primate Biology Department and Experimental Animal Facility, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai-400012, Maharashtra, India
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23
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Tan Y, Tan D, He M, Gu M, Wang Z, Zeng G, Duan E. A model for implantation: coculture of blastocysts and uterine endometrium in mice. Biol Reprod 2004; 72:556-61. [PMID: 15537866 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.104.032821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the limitations in embryo implantation research is the lack of an available in vitro model that faithfully replicates embryo-uterine interactions. In previous studies, embryos were cultured on a monolayer of either uterine epithelial cells or extracellular matrix substratum on which embryos could adhere and outgrow. However, these models failed to display embryonic invasion, primarily because of the shortage of critical structural and molecular supports that are available in vivo. In the present study, we used intact mouse uterine endometrium collected on Day 4 of pregnancy and placed in contact with blastocysts to initiate coculture experiments in a defined medium at the air-liquid interface. The culture medium was composed of Ham F-12/Dulbecco modified Eagle medium (1:1), 30% fetal calf serum, 63.5 nmol/L of progesterone, 7.14 nmol/L of estradiol-17beta, 100 mug/ml of insulin, and 20 ng/ml of epidermal growth factor, whereas the incubation condition was mixed air of 50% oxygen, 5% carbon dioxide, and 45% nitrogen with a humidity of greater than 90% at 37 degrees C. Our observations from 24 h of culture clearly demonstrated that embryos were capable of attachment to the uterine endometrium and displayed partial invasion into the endometrial stroma. Interestingly, no outgrowth of trophoblasts on the surface of uterine endometrium was seen, but embryos exhibited a pole-specific attachment. Overall, this model is capable of demonstrating a true invasion of embryo within the endometrial stroma and may be suitable in studies related to early embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Tan
- Laboratory Animal Center, Chongqing University of Medical Sciences, Chongqing, People's Republic of China.
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24
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Yoon SJ, Choi DH, Lee WS, Cha KY, Kim SN, Lee KA. A molecular basis for embryo apposition at the luminal epithelium. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2004; 219:95-104. [PMID: 15149731 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2004.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2003] [Accepted: 01/13/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
To obtain a gene expression profile during embryo apposition to the luminal epithelium, we isolated mouse luminal epithelium from implantation (IM) and interimplantation (INTER) sites using laser capture microdissection (LCM), and analyzed their gene expression by microarray analysis. IM and INTER sites were sampled on day 4.5 after mating of female mice with fertile males (day 0.5 = vaginal plug). RNA was extracted, amplified, labeled, and hybridized to microarrays and results were analyzed using the significance analysis of microarrays (SAM) method. Comparison of IM and INTER sites by SAM identified 73 genes most highly ranked at IM, while 13 genes most highly expressed at the INTER sites, within the estimated false discovery rate (FDR) of 0.163. Among 73 genes at IM, 20 were ESTs or were of unknown function, and the remain 53 genes had known functions mainly relating to cellular structuring and others such as cell cycling, gene/protein expression, immune responses, invasion, metabolism, oxidative stress, or signal transduction. Specifically, of the 24 structural genes, 14 were implicated in extracellular matrix and tissue remodeling. Meanwhile, of the 13 genes that were highly expressed at INTER, eight were ESTs or of unknown function, and the remaining five were implicated in metabolism, signal transduction, and gene/protein expression. Among these 58 (53 + 5) genes with known functions, 13 genes (22.4%) were associated with Ca2+ for their function. Results of the present study suggest that (1) at IM sites, active tissue remodeling is occurring for embryo invasion while the INTER sites are relatively quiescent and (2) Ca2+ may be a vital regulatory factor in the apposition process. Investigations of human homologues of those genes expressed in the mouse luminal epithelium during apposition may help to understand the implantation process and/or implantation failure in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Se-Jin Yoon
- Infertility Medical Center, CHA General Hospital, Seoul 135-081, South Korea
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25
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Kyono K, Fukunaga N, Chiba S, Nakajo Y, Fuchinoue K, Yagi A, Araki Y. Two-step consecutive transfer of early embryos and blastocysts. Reprod Med Biol 2003; 2:133-137. [PMID: 29699176 DOI: 10.1046/j.1445-5781.2003.00031.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To evaluate and confirm the merit of two consecutive transfer attempts of early embryos and blastocysts. Methods: A total of 685 patients underwent routine in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles. The study population consisted of three groups: (i) Group 1, early stage embryos were transferred (460 patients; 567 cycles); (ii) group 2, blastocysts were transferred (88 patients; 105 cycles); and (iii) group 3, a two-step (consecutive) transfer was performed on 137 women (141 cycles). Specifically, a standard embryo transfer was performed on day 3, together with a two-step (consecutive) transfer of blastocysts. After the early embryo transfer, an extended culture of supernumerary embryos was conducted, followed by a second transfer of blastocyst(s). Results: No significant differences were found in the three groups with regards to either pregnancy or implantation rates for groups 1, 2, or 3; pregnancy: 34.6, 29.9, and 33.6%, respectively; implantation: 18.6, 15.9, and 15.1%, respectively. The miscarriage rate for each group was also not significant; 20.4, 30.8 and 28.6% for groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively. The multiple pregnancy rate of the three groups was 30.4, 30.8 and 35.7%, respectively, and these were not found to be significant results. Conclusion: No significant difference was found between the three groups with regards to the pregnancy, implantation, multiple pregnancy and miscarriage rates. The multiple pregnancy rate was highest in the two-step (consecutive) transfer group. This difference was not regarded to be highly significant. (Reprod Med Biol 2003; 2: 133-137).
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Affiliation(s)
- Koichi Kyono
- Kyono Reproduction Research Center and Ladies Clinic Kyono, Furukawa, Miyagi and
| | - Noritaka Fukunaga
- Kyono Reproduction Research Center and Ladies Clinic Kyono, Furukawa, Miyagi and
| | - Setsuyo Chiba
- Kyono Reproduction Research Center and Ladies Clinic Kyono, Furukawa, Miyagi and
| | - Yukiko Nakajo
- Kyono Reproduction Research Center and Ladies Clinic Kyono, Furukawa, Miyagi and
| | - Kohei Fuchinoue
- Kyono Reproduction Research Center and Ladies Clinic Kyono, Furukawa, Miyagi and
| | - Akiko Yagi
- Kyono Reproduction Research Center and Ladies Clinic Kyono, Furukawa, Miyagi and
| | - Yasuhisa Araki
- The Institute for Advanced Reproductive Medical Technology (ARMT), Fujimi, Setagun, Gunma, Japan
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26
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Ueda O, Yorozu K, Kamada N, Jishage KI, Kawase Y, Toyoda Y, Suzuki H. Possible expansion of "Window of Implantation" in pseudopregnant mice: time of implantation of embryos at different stages of development transferred into the same recipient. Biol Reprod 2003; 69:1085-90. [PMID: 12773412 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.103.017608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocyst implantation and successful establishment of pregnancy require delicate interactions between the embryo and maternal environment. It is believed that the growth of transferred embryos of different ages is synchronized during preimplantation development and that such embryos are implanted in the uterus at the same time. To define the time of synchronization for developing embryos of different ages, embryos at two different stages of development were transferred separately into the oviducts of the same recipient. We then examined the subsequent development of the embryos at various time intervals after transfer. Pronucleus (PN) stage eggs were transferred separately to the right or left oviduct of recipients on Day 0, while eight-cell embryos (8C) were transferred to the other oviduct. For 8C, 5%, 63%, and 74% of transferred embryos were implanted in the uterus at 42, 66, and 90 h posttransfer, respectively. In contrast, none of the transferred PN was implanted until 90 h posttransfer. At 90 h posttransfer, 59% of the PN had successfully implanted. Histological examination revealed that developmental stage of the embryos in both groups synchronized around 162 h posttransfer, even though the implantation was accelerated in 8C compared with PN. Our results indicate that embryos of advanced stage transferred to the oviduct implant in the uterus in advance of younger embryos and that the uterine development is synchronized at the neural plate, presomite stage. Our results strongly suggest that uterine receptivity for implantation is expandable in pseudopregnant mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Otoya Ueda
- Chugai Pharmaceutical Co, Ltd, 1-135, Komakado, Gotemba, Shizuoka 412-8513, Japan
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27
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Abstract
One of the biggest obstacles to reproductive success is our inability to diagnose or treat effectively the non-receptive endometrium. The endometrium becomes receptive for a limited period of time under the influence of steroid hormones and paracrine signals from the developing embryo. It is likely that the receptive state is characterized by the expression of particular genes that allow the normally refractory endometrium to respond to the embryo and permit attachment. Recently, several molecules have been reported whose function is essential for uterine receptivity in rodents and primates. This article will review current models of the control of receptivity and early implantation and assess progress in defining markers for the receptive endometrium in women. Although some genes have been identified whose expression is altered in women with subfertility, none of these molecular markers have yet proven clinically useful in the assessment of functional receptivity. The use of high throughput techniques such as microarrays and proteomic methods to investigate gene expression in the endometrium provides a novel approach to defining receptivity at the molecular level. The potential impact of these tools on clinical practice will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Sharkey
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QP, UK.
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Valbuena D, Martin J, de Pablo JL, Remohí J, Pellicer A, Simón C. Increasing levels of estradiol are deleterious to embryonic implantation because they directly affect the embryo. Fertil Steril 2001; 76:962-8. [PMID: 11704118 DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(01)02018-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 228] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether the deleterious effect of E(2) on embryonic implantation is due to a direct effect on the endometrium, on the embryo, or both. DESIGN Prospective, controlled in vitro study. SETTING Tertiary infertility center. PATIENT(S) Fertile patients in the luteal phase with histologically normal endometrium who were attending the infertility clinic as oocyte donors (n = 14). INTERVENTION(S) E(2) dose-response (0, 10(-8), 10(-7), 10(-6), 10(-5), and 10(-4) M) and time course (day 2 vs. day 5) experiments were performed in an in vitro embryo adhesion assay composed of human polarized endometrial epithelial cells obtained from fertile patients and mouse embryos. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Blastocyst formation rate and embryo adhesion rate. RESULTS Monolayers of polarized endometrial epithelial cells expressed ERalpha at the mRNA level. The E(2) dose response of blastocysts with polarized endometrial epithelial cells (n = 235) demonstrated a progressive reduction in embryonic adhesion that was statistically significant at 10(-6) M. When polarized endometrial epithelial cells were treated alone with increasing doses of E(2) for 3 days and E(2) was then removed and blastocysts added (n = 410), embryonic adhesion was not significantly reduced, except at 10(-4) M. When 2-day mouse embryos (n = 609) were treated with increasing E(2) concentrations until day 5, the rate of blastocyst formation significantly decreased at a concentration >or= 10(-6) M, and embryonic adhesion decreased when blastocysts (n = 400) were obtained at a concentration >or= 10(-7) M. Time course experiments of embryos cultured for 2 days with polarized endometrial epithelial cells (n = 426) showed that the adhesion rate was higher at E(2) levels of 10(-7), 10(-6) and 10(-5) M compared with embryos cultured for 5 days (n = 495). CONCLUSION(S) High E(2) levels are deleterious to embryo adhesion in vitro, mainly because they have a direct toxic effect on the embryo that may occur at the cleavage stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Valbuena
- Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad Foundation (FIVIER), Valencia, Spain
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29
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Huuskonen H, Saastamoinen V, Komulainen H, Laitinen J, Juutilainen J. Effects of low-frequency magnetic fields on implantation in rats. Reprod Toxicol 2001; 15:49-59. [PMID: 11137378 DOI: 10.1016/s0890-6238(00)00110-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Effects of 50-Hz sinusoidal magnetic fields (MFs) on embryo implantation, serum 17beta-estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, and melatonin levels, and on estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PgR) densities in the uterus were studied during the preimplantation and implantation periods in rats. Pregnant Wistar rats were exposed to magnetic r.m.s. field strengths of 10 or 100 A/m (13 or 130 microT) or sham-exposed (controls) from day 0 of pregnancy for 24 h/day and killed during light and dark periods between 70 h and 176 h after ovulation. MFs did not influence the mean total number of implantations. The nocturnal mean serum melatonin concentration decreased by 34 and 38% at 10 and 100 A/m, respectively. At the same time, the first embryos, at an early developmental stage, arrived in the uterus in the MF-exposed groups. Serum estradiol and progesterone levels did not significantly change. Nuclear PgR and ER densities in the uterus decreased before implantation and there was an increased incidence of early stage embryos and fewer hatched embryos were found in the uterus at 100 A/m. During the early implantation period, the uterine cytosolic ER/PgR-ratio was increased at 100 A/m and no implants were concomitantly found in uterus. The nuclear ER/PgR-ratio decreased during implantation in both MF-groups due to decreased nuclear ER density. At the same time, 19% and 15% of the embryos (calculated from the corpora luteae) at 10 and 100 A/m, respectively, were yet morulae and not implanted. In summary, the results show that MFs do not impair implantation in rats although there may be some borderline changes in the transport and development of embryos and associated endocrinologic parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Huuskonen
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Division of Environmental Health, National Public Health Institute, P. O. Box 95, FIN-70701, Kuopio, Finland.
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Martín JC, Jasper MJ, Valbuena D, Meseguer M, Remohí J, Pellicer A, Simón C. Increased adhesiveness in cultured endometrial-derived cells is related to the absence of moesin expression. Biol Reprod 2000; 63:1370-6. [PMID: 11058540 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod63.5.1370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Human endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) are nonadhesive for embryos throughout most of the menstrual cycle. During the so-called implantation window, the apical plasma membrane of EECs acquire adhesive properties by undergoing a series of morphological and biochemical changes. The human endometrial-derived epithelial cell line, RL95-2, serves as an in vitro model for receptive uterine epithelium because of its high adhesiveness for trophoblast-derived cells. In contrast, the HEC-1-A cell line, which displays poor adhesive properties for trophoblast cells, is considered to be less receptive. The ezrin, radixin, and moesin protein family members, which are present underneath the apical plasma membrane, potentially act to link the cytoskeleton and membrane proteins. In the present study, we have further investigated the adhesive features in these two unrelated endometrial-derived cell lines using an established in vitro model for embryonic adhesion. We have also analyzed the protein pattern and mRNA expression of ezrin and moesin in RL95-2 cells versus HEC-1-A cells. The results demonstrate that RL95-2 cells were indeed more receptive (81% blastocyst adhesion) compared with HEC-1-A cells (46% blastocyst adhesion). An intermediate adhesion rate was found in primary EECs cultured on extracellular matrix gel, thus allowing a partial polarization of these cells (67% blastocyst adhesion). Furthermore, we found that moesin was absent from RL95-2 cells. In contrast, ezrin is expressed in both cell lines, yet it is reduced in adherent RL95-2 cells. Data are in agreement with the hypothesis that uterine receptivity requires down-regulation or absence of moesin, which is a less-polarized actin cytoskeleton.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Martín
- Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad, Research Department (FIVIER), Valencia 46020, Spain
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Suzuki N, Nadano D, Paria BC, Kupriyanov S, Sugihara K, Fukuda MN. Trophinin expression in the mouse uterus coincides with implantation and is hormonally regulated but not induced by implanting blastocysts. Endocrinology 2000; 141:4247-54. [PMID: 11089559 DOI: 10.1210/endo.141.11.7738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Trophinin mediates apical cell adhesion between two human cell lines, trophoblastic teratocarcinoma and endometrial adenocarcinoma. In humans, trophinin is specifically expressed in cells involved in implantation and early placentation. The present study was undertaken to establish trophinin expression by the mouse uterus. In the pregnant mouse uterus, trophinin transcripts are expressed during the time which coincides with the timing of blastocyst implantation. Trophinin is also expressed in the nonpregnant mouse uterus at estrus stage. Uteri from ovariectomized mice did not express trophinin, whereas strong expression was induced by estrogen but not by progesterone. Trophinin transcripts and protein were found in the pseudopregnant mouse uterus. No differences were detected in trophinin expression by the uteri in the pregnant, pseudopregnant, and pseudopregnant received blastocysts. In delayed implantation model, trophinin proteins were found in both luminal and glandular epithelium, whereas dormant blastocysts were negative for trophinin. Upon activation with estrogen, however, no significant changes were detected either in the blastocyst or in the uterus. These results indicate that ovarian hormones regulate trophinin expression by the mouse uterus, and that an implanting blastocyst has no effect on trophinin expression in the surrounding endometrial luminal epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Suzuki
- The Burnham Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
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Abstract
This review covers the sequence of cell adhesion events occurring during implantation of the mammalian embryo, concentrating on data from mouse and human. The analogy is explored between initial attachment of trophoblast to the uterine lining epithelium and that of neutrophils to the endothelial lining of blood vessels at sites of inflammation. The possible role of various carbohydrate ligands in initial attachment of the blastocyst is reviewed. The evidence for subsequent stabilization of cell adhesion via integrins or the trophinin-tastin complex is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- S J Kimber
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, 3.239 Stopford Building, Oxford Rd, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
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Simón C, Gimeno MJ, Mercader A, O'Connor JE, Remohí J, Polan ML, Pellicer A. Embryonic regulation of integrins beta 3, alpha 4, and alpha 1 in human endometrial epithelial cells in vitro. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1997; 82:2607-16. [PMID: 9253342 DOI: 10.1210/jcem.82.8.4153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, we examined the embryonic regulation of beta 3 integrin in human endometrial epithelial cells (EEC) at the protein level and analyzed putative embryonic factors responsible for this regulation. The model employed is based on a clinical in vitro fertilization program in which single human embryos were cocultured with EEC until blastocyst stage and then transferred back to the uterus. After embryo transfer, EEC wells were divided according to the embryonic status reached: EEC with embryos that achieved the blastocyst stage, EEC with arrested embryos, and EEC without embryos. Immunostaining for beta 3 was positive in plasma membrane of EEC. Flow cytometry showed a mean percentage of beta 3-stained cells of 24.1 +/- 5.7 in EEC cocultured with embryos that achieved the blastocyst stage (n = 13) vs. 9.5 +/- 1.6 (P < 0.05) in those EEC cultured with arrested embryos (n = 12). Immunostaining for alpha 1 and alpha 4 integrins was negative in EEC monolayers studied, regardless of the presence or absence of embryos, and these findings were confirmed by flow cytometry. The possibility that the embryonic IL-1 system and leukemia inhibitory factor were involved in the endometrial beta 3 up-regulation was investigated by neutralizing experiments demonstrating a significant inhibition of beta 3-stained cells when EEC monolayers were cultured in the presence of EEC/blastocyst-conditioned media with (n = 4) vs. without (n = 8) antihuman interleukin (IL)-1 alpha + IL-1 beta (1.65% vs. 14.6%; P < 0.05). Dose-response experiments further demonstrated an up-regulation of beta 3 positive cells when IL-1 alpha + IL-1 beta were added to the medium at a concentration of 10 pg/mL compared with control medium without added cytokines (40% vs. 20%, n = 4). The functional relevance of the EEC beta 3 up-regulation was tested using a mouse blastocyst adhesion assay. More mouse blastocysts attached to EEC previously in contact with human blastocyst (72.7%) compared with those EEC previously in contact with arrested embryos (40%). Our results demonstrate the selective effect of a developing human embryo on EEC expression of beta 3, which is maximal when a human blastocyst instead of an arrested embryo is considered. Furthermore, the embryonic IL-1 system seems to be involved in the EEC beta 3 up-regulation, reinforcing the concept of precise paracrine cross-talk between blastocyst and endometrial epithelium during embryonic implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Simón
- Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad, Valencia University, Spain.
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Mehrotra PK, Batra S, Bhaduri AP. Non-steroidal menses-regulating agents: the present status. PROGRESS IN DRUG RESEARCH. FORTSCHRITTE DER ARZNEIMITTELFORSCHUNG. PROGRES DES RECHERCHES PHARMACEUTIQUES 1995; 44:159-84. [PMID: 7644665 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-0348-7161-7_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- P K Mehrotra
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
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