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Song JY, Sun ZG, Ma YX. Efficacy and safety of Shen Que (RN8) moxibustion on reproductive outcomes in unexpected poor ovarian responders: a randomized controlled trial. J Ovarian Res 2024; 17:177. [PMID: 39210342 PMCID: PMC11363657 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-024-01493-2] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Managing infertility patients with poor ovarian response (POR) to ovarian stimulation remains unmet clinically. Besides economic burdens, patients with POR have a poor prognosis during in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET). In this study, we assessed the efficacy and safety of Shen Que (RN8) moxibustion on reproductive outcomes in POSEIDON patients (Group 2a). METHODS Women eligible for IVF were invited to participate in this randomized, open-label, superiority trial at an academic fertility center from January 2022 to December 2023. One hundred patients ≤ 44 years old equally divided between Shen Que moxibustion (SQM) and control groups were randomized. These patients must meet the POSEIDON criteria, Group 2a, which requires antral follicle count (AFC) ≥ 5 or anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) ≥ 1.2ng/ml, and a previous unexpected POR (< 4 oocytes). Twelve moxibustion sessions were conducted in the SQM group prior to oocyte retrieval, while only IVF treatment was performed in the control group. The primary outcome was the number of oocytes retrieved. RESULTS As compared with the IVF treatment alone, the SQM + IVF treatment significantly increased the number of retrieved oocytes (4.7 vs. 5.8, p = 0.012), mature oocytes (3.0 vs. 5.0, p = 0.008), and available embryos (2.0 vs. 4.0, p = 0.014) in unexpected poor ovarian responders aged more than 35 years. In the SQM group, the cumulative live birth rate was 27.3% (9/33) in comparison to 13.3% (4/30) in the control group, whereas no statistical significance was detected (p = 0.172). During the study, no significant adverse effects were observed. CONCLUSIONS Women with unexpected POR who meet POSEIDON Group 2a can benefit from Shen Que (RN8) moxibustion treatment. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05653557.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Yan Song
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- Reproductive Center of Integrated Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- College of Acupuncture and Massage, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Zhen-Gao Sun
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.
- Reproductive Center of Integrated Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.
| | - Yu-Xia Ma
- College of Acupuncture and Massage, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China.
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Hart RJ. Nutritional supplements and IVF: an evidence-based approach. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 48:103770. [PMID: 38184959 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Many women undergoing IVF take supplements during treatment. The purpose of this review was to systematically review these nutritional supplements. The therapies studied are dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), melatonin, co-enzyme Q10 (CoQ1O), carnitine, selenium, vitamin D, myo-inositol, omega-3, Chinese herbs and dietary interventions. A literature search up to May 2023 was undertaken. The data suggest that a simple nutritional approach would be to adopt a Mediterranean diet. With regards to supplements to treat a potential poor ovarian response to ovarian stimulation, starting DHEA and COQ-10 before cycle commencement is better than control therapies. Furthermore, medication with CoQ10 may have some merit, although it is unclear whether its place is for older women, for those with a poor response to ovarian stimulation or for poor embryonic development. There appears a benefit for some IVF outcomes for the use of melatonin, although it is unclear what group of patients would derive the benefit and the appropriate dosing regimen. For women with polycystic ovary syndrome, there may be a benefit to the use of myo-inositol, although again the dosing regimen is unclear. Furthermore, the place of vitamin D supplementation has yet to be clarified, and supplementation with omega-3 free fatty acids may lead to improvements in clinical and embryological IVF outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger J Hart
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.; Fertility Specialists of Western Australia and City Fertility Clinic, Claremont, Western Australia, Australia..
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Wang Z, Liu D, Nie Y, Zhang Q. Cai's prescription inhibits granulosa cell apoptosis through ARHGAP4 on poor ovarian responders. J Ovarian Res 2024; 17:40. [PMID: 38355537 PMCID: PMC10865665 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-024-01363-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Poor ovarian response (POR) is a big challenge for in vitro fertilization. The traditional Chinese medicine, Cai's Prescription of Tonifying Kidney and Strengthening Vitals (Cai's Prescription) has yielded satisfactory results for POR treatment clinically, but systematic scientific research of Cai's Prescription is not well reported. This study aimed to investigate the clinical effect of Cai's Prescription on poor ovarian responders and its biological mechanism. METHODS Serum was collected from poor ovarian responders, and IL-1β, INFγ, FSH, E2 and AMH levels were analyzed by ELISA. Ovarian antral follicles were identified and counted using transvaginal ultrasound. The embryo quality grading were done on day 3 after retrieval. We used high-throughput sequencing of granulosa cells to investigate the gene transcription patterns of ovarian granulosa cells in poor ovarian responders after Cai's Prescription pretreatment. The expression level of ARHGAP4 was analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR and western blot. The effects of ARHGAP4 for granulosa cells were analyzed by CCK-8 assay, annexin-V and PI staining, ELISA and western blot. The effects of Cai's Prescription on the expression of PI3K-Akt pathway and apoptosis were analyzed by western blot. RESULTS In this study, we found that Cai's Prescription pretreatment had the tendency to improve the ovarian reserve function and could increase the number of high quality embryos for poor ovarian responders. Through high-throughput sequencing of mRNA in granulosa cells, we discovered ARHGAP4, which is a member of GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs) may be a candidate target for POR treatment. ARHGAP4 was significantly increased in poor ovarian responders and can be recovered after Cai's Prescription pretreatment. Mechanically, combining the cell line model and clinical tissue samples, we found that ARHGAP4 can accelerate cell apoptosis and inflammation response in granulosa cells via PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. In addition, Cai's Prescription pretreatment for three months significantly reduced the high level of ARHGAP4 in poor ovarian responders. CONCLUSION This study shows that the traditional Chinese medicine, Cai's Prescription yielded satisfactory results for poor ovarian responders clinically and ARHGAP4 may be a candidate target for POR treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Wang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
| | - Denghao Liu
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Yonghong Nie
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Qinhua Zhang
- Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
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Chang H, Yeung TC, Yang X, Gao J, Wu X, Wang CC. Chinese herbal medicines as complementary therapy to in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer in women with infertility: protocols and applications. HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:845-863. [PMID: 37937818 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2023.2266619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
In vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) is a very common treatment for couples with infertility. However, IVF-ET still has a limited success rate with high costs. Chinese herbal medicines (CHM) have been used as complementary treatments for infertility to improve the reproductive outcomes during different stages of the IVF-ET cycle. This review provides an up to date evidence on CHM treatments. We summarize the treatment protocols based on the stages of IVF-ET cycle and discuss its clinical applications in IVF-ET treatment. The possible underlying mechanisms of CHM include improving ovarian function, promoting endometrial receptivity, regulating immune function, inhibiting oxidation, and reducing mental stress and discomfort during treatment. This review aims to provide information and guidance on the potential clinical applications of CHM as an adjuvant therapy during IVF-ET treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Tsz Ching Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Xinming Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Jingshu Gao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Xiaoke Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Chi Chiu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
- Laboratory for Reproduction and Development, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences; School of Biomedical Sciences, Chinese University of Hong Kong-Suchuen University Joint Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
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Han QS, Wu ZJ, Zhou Y, Liang JN, Jin QM, Song JY, Sun ZG. Effectiveness of oestrogen pretreatment in patients with expected poor ovarian response (POSEIDON groups 3 and 4) undergoing GnRH antagonist protocol: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e069840. [PMID: 37558441 PMCID: PMC10414096 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-069840] [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: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Women characterised by diminished ovarian reserve are considered to have poor ovarian response (POR) according to Patient-Oriented Strategies Encompassing IndividualizeD Oocyte Number (POSEIDON) criteria. Patients in this population often have a poor prognosis for treatment with assisted reproductive technology. In previous studies, oestrogen pretreatment before ovarian stimulation has been shown to have a beneficial effect. However, recent studies presented conflicting conclusions. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of oestrogen pretreatment in patients with expected POR (POSEIDON groups 3 and 4) undergoing gonadotrophin releasing hormone antagonist (GnRH-ant) protocol. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A prospective superiority randomised parallel controlled trial will be conducted at a tertiary university-affiliated hospital. A total of 316 patients will be randomly divided into two groups at a ratio of 1:1. In the intervention group, oral oestrogen pretreatment will be administered from day 7 after ovulation until day 2 of the next menstrual cycle. Afterwards, a flexible GnRH-ant protocol will be initiated. The control group will receive no additional intervention beyond routine ovarian stimulation. The primary outcome is the number of oocytes retrieved. Secondary outcomes include the total number of retrieved metaphase II oocytes, average daily dose of gonadotropin, total gonadotropin dose and duration of ovarian stimulation, cycle cancellation rate, top quality embryos rate, blastocyst formation rate, embryo implantation rate, clinical pregnancy rate, early miscarriage rate and endometrial thickness on trigger day. All data will be analysed according to the intention-to-treat and per-protocol principles. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The ethical approval has been confirmed by the reproductive ethics committee of the affiliated hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (SDUTCM/2022.9.20). In addition, written informed consent will be obtained from all the participants before the study. The results will be disseminated via publications. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ChiCTR2200064812.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao-Song Han
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhi-Juan Wu
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yue Zhou
- The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jing-Nan Liang
- The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Qing-Mei Jin
- The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jing-Yan Song
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Reproductive Center of Integrated Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhen-Gao Sun
- The First Clinical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Reproductive Center of Integrated Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Su C, Zhang R, Zhang X, Lv M, Liu X, Ao K, Hao J, Mu YL. Dingkun Pill modulate ovarian function in chemotherapy-induced premature ovarian insufficiency mice by regulating PTEN/PI3K/AKT/FOXO3a signaling pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023:116703. [PMID: 37257704 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Dingkun Pill (DKP) is a traditional Chinese medicine that has been shown to have beneficial effects on reproductive function. However, the specific mechanism underlying its effect on POI is not well understood. AIM OF THE STUDY To investigate the effect of different doses of Dingkun Pill on ovarian function in cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) mice and to explore its molecular mechanism through PTEN/PI3K/AKT/FOXO3a signaling pathway. This study will provide valuable insights into the potential clinical application of Dingkun Pill for the treatment of POI. MATERIALS AND METHODS Fifty female ICR mice were randomly divided into normal control (NC) group, model control (MC) group, and Dingkun Pill low, medium, high dose (DKP-L, M, H) groups. Mice were injected with CTX to construct the POI model. Mice in the DKP-L, M, and H groups were given 0.9 g/kg, 1.8 g/kg, and 3.6 g/kg of Dingkun Pill suspension for 21 days, respectively. Mice in the NC and MC groups were given the same amount of normal saline by gavage. Changes in body weight, estrous cycle and gonadal index were observed in each group of mice. Serum levels of FSH, LH, E2 and AMH were detected by ELISA. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining observed the changes of ovarian pathological morphology and follicle counts at all levels. qRT-PCR was used to measure the levels of the PTEN and FOXO3a genes in ovarian tissue. The expression of PTEN/PI3K/AKT/FOXO3a signaling pathway related proteins were detected by Western-blot and immunohistochemistry(IHC). RESULTS In POI mice, Dingkun Pill increased body weight, promoted the recovery of estrous cycle, increased ovarian index, and improved pathological morphology of the ovaries. The FSH level decreased in the medium dose group (P < 0.05), the LH level reduced significantly in the medium and high dose groups (P < 0.01), and the E2 level in the high dose group increased (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in AMH levels across all dose groups. The number of growing follicles improved at all levels in the low and medium dose groups, but declined significantly in the high dose group. However, the number of corpus luteum increased significantly in the high dose group (P < 0.001), and the atretic follicles in the three dose groups decreased. Results from qRT-PCR, Western-blot and IHC showed that the moderate dose of Dingkun Pill suppressed the levels of the p-PI3K and p-AKT proteins by upregulating the expression of PTEN in the ovarian tissues of POI mice, thereby inhibiting the expression of the key protein p-FOXO3a. However, the inhibitory effect of the higher dose may be less than that of the lower and intermediate dose groups. CONCLUSIONS The Dingkun Pill modulated hormonal levels, promoted follicle growth and induced ovulation in mice with CTX-induced POI, with better results in the low and moderate dose groups. Its mechanism may be related to the regulation of the PTEN/PI3K/AKT/FOXO3a signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan Su
- Department of Gynecology, Provincial Hospital, Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250098, China; The Second Clinical Medical College of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250013, China
| | - Ruihong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Xiujuan Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Provincial Hospital, Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250098, China
| | - Mengxiao Lv
- Department of Gynecology, Provincial Hospital, Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250098, China
| | - Xiang Liu
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250013, China
| | - Kai Ao
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250013, China
| | - Jing Hao
- Key Laboratory of Experimental Teratology, Ministry of Education, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China.
| | - Yu-Lan Mu
- Department of Gynecology, Provincial Hospital, Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250098, China.
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Esteves SC, Yarali H, Vuong LN, Conforti A, Humaidan P, Alviggi C. POSEIDON groups and their distinct reproductive outcomes: Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness insights from real-world data research. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2022; 85:159-187. [PMID: 35725717 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2022.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The Patient-Oriented Strategies Encompassing IndividualizeDOocyte Number (POSEIDON) criteria identify and classify the so-called 'low-prognosis' patients undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART). Recent large-scale studies using real-world data (RWD) have shown that patients classified under this system have distinct reproductive outcomes. Moreover, these studies also confirm that POSEIDON patients are commonly found in fertility centers. RWD has substantiated the validity of the POSEIDON biomarkers' thresholds (antral follicle count [AFC] and/or anti-Müllerian hormone [AMH]) for patient classification. Lastly, a predictive model has been developed and validated to estimate the POSEIDON metric of success (i.e., number of oocytes needed to achieve at least one euploid blastocyst). Although more evidence is needed in this area, current insights from RWD research indicate that infertility patients can be counseled and managed more effectively under the POSEIDON scope, with potential gains for all parties involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro C Esteves
- Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Av. Dr. Heitor Penteado, 1464, Campinas, Brazil; Faculty of Health, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Hakan Yarali
- Anatolia IVF and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Lan N Vuong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam; IVFMD, My Duc Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam; HOPE Research Center, My Duc Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Alessandro Conforti
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples, Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Peter Humaidan
- Faculty of Health, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Fertility Clinic Skive, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive & Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Carlo Alviggi
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University of Naples, Federico II, Naples, Italy
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Shi YQ, Wang Y, Zhu XT, Yin RY, Ma YF, Han H, Han YH, Zhang YH. The Application of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Infertility. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2022; 2022:5076306. [PMID: 36248406 PMCID: PMC9568292 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5076306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a lifelong reproductive endocrine disease, which is the most common cause of anovular infertility. Modern medicine mainly treats infertile patients with PCOS by improving living habits, ovulation induction therapy, and assisted reproductive technology (ART), but the effect is not satisfied. Complementary alternative medicine (CAM) has conspicuous advantages in the treatment of PCOS infertility due to its good clinical efficacy, wide mechanism of action, and no obvious adverse reactions, but its safety and effectiveness in the treatment of PCOS infertility have not been proved. Based on the existing clinical and experimental studies, this paper looks for the therapeutic effect and the mechanism behind it, and explores the safety and effectiveness of its treatment in PCOS infertility, in order to provide reference for future clinical treatment and experimental research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Qian Shi
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Xi-Ting Zhu
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Rui-Yang Yin
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Yi-Fu Ma
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Han Han
- The First Clinical Hospital affiliated to Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yan-Hua Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory and Unit of Infertility in Chinese Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
| | - Yue-Hui Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory and Unit of Infertility in Chinese Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, China
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Cai YL, Zhang F, Dou XX, Zeng HW, Wu GS, Liang YL, Xu XK, Zhao J, Ye J, Zhang WD. Integrated metabolomics and network pharmacology to reveal the therapeutic mechanism of Dingkun Pill on polycystic ovary syndrome. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 295:115442. [PMID: 35688255 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Dingkun Pill (DKP), a traditional Chinese medicine prescription, was modified from Bujing decoction and Xusijiangsheng pill by the imperial physician in the Qing dynasty (1700' s). It was believed to treat various gynecological diseases by nourishing qi and blood. Accumulating evidence indicates that it is effective in treating polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, the therapeutic efficacy and mechanism of action DKP against PCOS need to be further elucidated. AIM OF THE STUDY To investigate the therapeutic effect and action mechanism of DKP against PCOS using an integrated approach of metabolomics and network pharmacology. MATERIALS AND METHODS The rat model of PCOS was established by dehydroepiandrosterone. An integrated metabolomics and network pharmacology strategy was applied to systemically clarify the mechanism of DKP against PCOS. Theca cells were prepared to evaluate the effect of DKP and its ingredients on testosterone synthesis in vitro. RESULTS The pharmacological experiments demonstrated that DKP could effectively convert the disordered estrous cyclicity, decrease the level of testosterone and the luteinizing hormone/follicle stimulating hormone ratio, and inhibit abnormal follicle formation in PCOS rats. By metabolomics analysis, 164 serum endogenous differential metabolites and 172 urine endogenous differential metabolites were tentatively identified. Steroid hormone biosynthesis and ovarian steroidogenesis were the most significantly impacted pathways. Based on network pharmacology and metabolomics studies, the ingredient-target-pathway network of DKP in the treatment of PCOS was constructed. Among the 10 key targets, CYP17A1, CYP19A1, STS, AR, ESR1, and MYC were closely involved in ovarian androgen synthesis. In theca cell-based assay of testosterone synthesis, DKP and its two active compounds (ligustilide and picrocrocin) showed inhibitory effects. CONCLUSION DKP effectively improved symptoms in rats with dehydroepiandrosterone-induced PCOS. The mechanism of DKP in the treatment of PCOS is related to the CYP17A1 enzyme required for androgen synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Li Cai
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xiu-Xiu Dou
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Hua-Wu Zeng
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Gao-Song Wu
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yan-Lin Liang
- Guangyuyuan Chinese Medicine Co, Ltd, Shanxi, 030800, China
| | - Xi-Ke Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Pharmaceutical Metabolite Research, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Ji Ye
- School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Pharmaceutical Metabolite Research, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Wei-Dong Zhang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China; School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory for Pharmaceutical Metabolite Research, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
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10
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Jin B, Zhang Y, Zhang Z, Yang G, Pan Y, Xie L, Liu J, Shen W. The Efficacy and Safety of Dingkun Pill in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2022; 2022:8698755. [PMID: 36062168 PMCID: PMC9433272 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8698755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective Dingkun Pill (DKP) is a proprietary Chinese medicine that has been utilized for patients with gynecological diseases, and its clinical application has been widely accepted in China. However, the effects of DKP on reproduction and metabolism in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have never been systematically evaluated. Our objective was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of DKP in treating reproductive and metabolic abnormalities with PCOS. Methods We searched in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Database, VIP Database, and Chinese Biomedical Literature Database up until January 2022 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The methodological quality of the included RCTs was estimated using the Cochrane collaboration risk-of-bias instrument, and the meta-analysis was performed using RevMan. Results A total of 22 RCTs (including 1994 participants) were identified. DKP, combined with ovulation-inducing drugs (OID) or combined oral contraceptives (COC) was superior to OID or COC alone in improving the pregnancy rate (relative risk (RR) 1.84, 95% CI 1.62 to 2.11 and RR 1.38, 95% CI 1.16 to 1.64, respectively), ovulation rate (RR 1.38, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.84 and RR 1.23, 95% CI 1.11 to 1.37, respectively), endometrial thickness (weighted mean difference (WMD) 2.50, 95% CI 1.91 to 3.09 and WMD 0.62, 95% CI 0.08 to 1.16, respectively), luteinizing hormone (WMD -1.93, 95% CI -2.80 to-.07 and WMD -1.79, 95% CI -2.66 to-0.92, respectively), and testosterone (standardized mean difference (SMD) -2.12, 95% CI -3.01 to-1.24 and SMD -1.21, 95% CI -1.64 to-0.78, respectively). DKP combined with COC led to a greater improvement in homeostasis model assessment-β (WMD 20.42, 95% CI 16.85 to 23.98) when compared with COC alone. There was a significant difference between DKP and COC in terms of decreasing total cholesterol (WMD -0.37, 95% CI -0.72 to-0.02), triacylglycerol (WMD -0.85, 95% CI -1.50 to-0.20), and free fatty acid (WMD -130.00, 95% CI -217.56 to-42.22). However, DKP did not affect the follicle stimulating hormone, fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Adverse reactions were more common in COC alone compared to DKP and COC in combination (RR 0.22, 95% CI 0.07 to 0.63). Conclusion DKP shows promise in modifying reproductive and metabolic parameters in patients with PCOS and may be used as a primary choice in conventional or complementary therapies for PCOS. The quality of the evidence analyzed was suboptimal, and therefore, our results should be interpreted cautiously. More prospective large-scale and well-designed RCTs, as well as longer intervention durations are required in the future to draw more reliable conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bao Jin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Internal Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Zongyu Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Guorong Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Yujia Pan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Liangzhen Xie
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Jiarui Liu
- Department of Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Wenjuan Shen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
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Muyayalo KP, Song S, Liu C, Gong GS, Zhang YJ, Zhou H, Shen L, Liao AH. HLA-DR + CD45RA- Tregs and CD28- Treg-like cells: Potential immunologic biomarkers for reproductive aging. Am J Reprod Immunol 2022; 89:e13591. [PMID: 35771647 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM This study aimed to identify subsets of regulatory T cells (Tregs) associated with ovarian aging and determine whether they can be used as markers of reproductive aging. METHOD This prospective cohort study was conducted among women of reproductive age. Basic physiological characteristics, reproductive hormones, Treg cell subsets, and correlations between these parameters were assessed. The POSEIDON criteria was used to identify women with low reproductive potential. RESULTS The percentages of HLA-DR+ CD45RA- Tregs and CD28- Treg-like cells significantly increased with age. Women between 40 and 49 years had significantly higher percentages of HLA-DR+ CD45RA- Tregs and CD28- Treg-like cells than those at 20-29, 30-34, and 35-39 years old. Age positively correlated with FSH levels and the percentages of HLA-DR+ CD45RA- Tregs and CD28- Treg-like cells, but inversely correlated with antral follicle count (AFC) and AMH levels. Interestingly, a positive correlation was found between the percentages of HLA-DR+ CD45RA- Tregs and FSH levels, whereas an inverse correlation was found between those of HLA-DR+ CD45RA- Tregs and AFC or AMH levels. Furthermore, a significant positive correlation was observed between the percentages of CD28- Treg-like cells and AFC. Based on POSEIDON criteria, women with the percentages of HLA-DR+ CD45RA- Tregs and CD28- Treg-like cells above reference value ranges were assigned to the low prognosis groups. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that HLA-DR+ CD45RA- Tregs and CD28- Treg-like cells can be used as immunologic markers of reproductive aging, which helps clinicians identify women with low reproductive potential and establish individualized therapeutic strategies. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kahindo P Muyayalo
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, D. R. Congo
| | - Su Song
- Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medical Hospital, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Chunyan Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Guang-Shun Gong
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Yu-Jing Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Hui Zhou
- Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medical Hospital, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Li Shen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Liyuan Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Ai-Hua Liao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
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Wu L, Fang Q, Wang M, Wang Y, Zhu X, Fang Z, Lu F, Xu B, Jin R, Han H, Tong X. Effect of weight loss on pregnancy outcomes, neuronal-reproductive-metabolic hormones and gene expression profiles in granulosa cells in obese infertile PCOS patients undergoing IVF-ET. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:954428. [PMID: 36246893 PMCID: PMC9562768 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.954428] [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: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of weight loss on pregnancy outcomes, PCOS related neuronal-reproductive-metabolic hormones and ovarian granulosa cell gene expression profiles in obese PCOS infertile patients undergoing in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET). METHODS 75 patients undergoing IVF-ET due to tubal factors alone collected as the control group (group A), and 352 patients with obese PCOS infertility were divided into four groups according to the amount of weight loss before IVF: 0 kg (group B), 1-5 kg (group C), 5-10 kg (group D), and >10 kg (group E). Six cases of ovarian granulosa cells were collected randomly with the random number table method in each group for detecting mRNA profiling. Pathway networks and biological functions of the differentially expressed genes were analyzed. Validation by RT-PCR was performed. RESULTS (1) The levels of luteinizing hormone(LH), testosterone(T) and homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance(HOMA-IR) in group E were significantly lower than those in groups B and C (P<0.05). (2) Compared with groups A and E, groups B and C showed increased total gonadotropin (Gn) and days of Gn stimulation (P<0.05), and the E2 level on trigger day and number of oocytes obtained in group B was significantly less than that in group E (P<0.05 or 0.01). Embryo implantation rate, clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate were increased and miscarriage rate was decreased in groups A, D and E compared with group B (P<0.05 or 0.01). (3) There were significant differences among the control group and PCOS groups in some genes that are involved in neuronal-reproductive-metabolic endocrine, transcriptional regulation, cell proliferation and differentiation, etc (P<0.05). RNA-Seq results were validated by real time PCR analysis for the expression of follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR), drosophila mothers against decapentaplegic protein 7(Smad7) and glutathione peroxidase 3(GPX3) genes that are known to have an important role in follicular development. Functional alterations were confirmed by the improvement in the ovarian responsiveness to Gn and embryo quality. CONCLUSION Weight loss more than 5kg may regulate the neuroreproductive endocrine hormone secretion, insulin resistance and gene expression profiles of ovarian granulosa cells, so as to improve the ovarian responsiveness to Gn, the embryo quality, embryo implantation rate, clinical pregnancy rate, live birth rate, and reduce the spontaneous abortion rate in obese infertile PCOS patients undergoing IVF-ET. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION www.chictr.org.cn, identifier ChiCTR1800018298.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limin Wu
- Reproductive and genetic branch, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Qunying Fang
- Reproductive and genetic branch, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Mengli Wang
- Reproductive and genetic branch, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- Graduate school, Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Yurui Wang
- Reproductive and genetic branch, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xinyi Zhu
- Reproductive and genetic branch, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Zhaohui Fang
- Endocrine Department, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Fangting Lu
- Reproductive and genetic branch, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Bo Xu
- Reproductive and genetic branch, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Rentao Jin
- Reproductive and genetic branch, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Xianhong Tong, ; Hui Han, ; Rentao Jin,
| | - Hui Han
- Neurology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Xianhong Tong, ; Hui Han, ; Rentao Jin,
| | - Xianhong Tong
- Reproductive and genetic branch, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Xianhong Tong, ; Hui Han, ; Rentao Jin,
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Autophagy as a Therapeutic Target of Natural Products Enhancing Embryo Implantation. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 15:ph15010053. [PMID: 35056110 PMCID: PMC8779555 DOI: 10.3390/ph15010053] [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: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility is an emerging health issue worldwide, and female infertility is intimately associated with embryo implantation failure. Embryo implantation is an essential process during the initiation of prenatal development. Recent studies have strongly suggested that autophagy in the endometrium is the most important factor for successful embryo implantation. In addition, several studies have reported the effects of various natural products on infertility improvement via the regulation of embryo implantation, embryo quality, and endometrial receptivity. However, it is unclear whether natural products can improve embryo implantation ability by regulating endometrial autophagy. Therefore, we performed a literature review of studies on endometrial autophagy, embryo implantation, natural products, and female infertility. Based on the information from these studies, this review suggests a new treatment strategy for female infertility by proposing natural products that have been proven to be safe and effective as endometrial autophagy regulators; additionally, we provide a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between the regulation of endometrial autophagy by natural products and female infertility, with an emphasis on embryo implantation.
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