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Zhan T, Zhang J, Zhang Y, Zhao Q, Chemerinski A, Douglas NC, Zhang Q, Xiao S. A Dose-Response Study on Functional and Transcriptomic Effects of FSH on Ex Vivo Mouse Folliculogenesis. Endocrinology 2024; 165:bqae054. [PMID: 38735763 PMCID: PMC11129714 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqae054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) binds to its membrane receptor (FSHR) in granulosa cells to activate various signal transduction pathways and drive the gonadotropin-dependent phase of folliculogenesis. Both FSH insufficiency (due to genetic or nongenetic factors) and FSH excess (as encountered with ovarian stimulation in assisted reproductive technology [ART]) can cause poor female reproductive outcomes, but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive. Herein, we conducted single-follicle and single-oocyte RNA sequencing analysis along with other approaches in an ex vivo mouse folliculogenesis and oogenesis system to investigate the effects of different concentrations of FSH on key follicular events. Our study revealed that a minimum FSH threshold is required for follicle maturation into the high estradiol-secreting preovulatory stage, and such threshold is moderately variable among individual follicles between 5 and 10 mIU/mL. FSH at 5, 10, 20, and 30 mIU/mL induced distinct expression patterns of follicle maturation-related genes, follicular transcriptomics, and follicular cAMP levels. RNA sequencing analysis identified FSH-stimulated activation of G proteins and downstream canonical and novel signaling pathways that may critically regulate follicle maturation, including the cAMP/PKA/CREB, PI3K/AKT/FOXO1, and glycolysis pathways. High FSH at 20 and 30 mIU/mL resulted in noncanonical FSH responses, including premature luteinization, high production of androgen and proinflammatory factors, and reduced expression of energy metabolism-related genes in oocytes. Together, this study improves our understanding of gonadotropin-dependent folliculogenesis and provides crucial insights into how high doses of FSH used in ART may impact follicular health, oocyte quality, pregnancy outcome, and systemic health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingjie Zhan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- Center for Environmental Exposures and Disease, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Jiyang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- Center for Environmental Exposures and Disease, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- Center for Environmental Exposures and Disease, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Qingshi Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, New Jersey Medical School (NJMS), Rutgers University, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Anat Chemerinski
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, New Jersey Medical School (NJMS), Rutgers University, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Nataki C Douglas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health, New Jersey Medical School (NJMS), Rutgers University, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences (RBHS), Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Shuo Xiao
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
- Center for Environmental Exposures and Disease, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
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Ribeiro ACS, Pinto PHN, Santos JDR, Ramalho NP, Laeber CCR, Balaro MFA, Batista RITP, Souza-Fabjan JMG, da Fonseca JF, Ungerfeld R, Brandão FZ. The pFSH dose affects the efficiency of in vivo embryo production in Santa Inês ewes. Anim Reprod Sci 2024; 264:107459. [PMID: 38598889 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2024.107459] [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: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
This study compared the follicular growth, superovulatory response, and in vivo embryo production after administering two doses of porcine follicle-stimulating hormone (pFSH) in Santa Inês ewes. The estrous cycle of 36 multiparous ewes was synchronized with the Day 0 protocol and superovulated with 133 mg (G133, n=18) or 200 mg (G200, n=18) of pFSH. Ultrasonographic evaluations of the ovaries were performed, ewes were mated and submitted to non-surgical embryo recovery. Viable blastocysts were stained with Nile Red and Hoechst. The G200 had a greater number of medium and large follicles, as well as a larger size of the third largest follicle. A total of 97.2% (35/36) of the ewes came into estrus and it was possible to transpose cervix in 80.6% (29/36). There were no effects of treatments in the response to superovulation, the proportion of ewes in which was possible to transpose the cervix, the number of corpora lutea, the number of anovulatory follicles, the proportion of ewes flushed with at least one recovered structure, number of recovered structures, number of viable embryos, viability rate, and recovery rate. The G200 ewes were in estrus for a longer period of time than the G133 ewes (54.0 ± 4.5 h vs. 40.3 ± 3.6 h) and produced more freezable embryos (6.5 ± 1.6 vs. 2.3 ± 0.7) than G133. Both doses promoted an efficient superovulatory response and did not affect embryonic lipid accumulation. The dose of 200 mg of pFSH showed greater potential to increase the superovulatory response, as it increased follicular recruitment and the recovery of freezable embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Clara Sarzedas Ribeiro
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Av. Vital Brasil Filho, 64, Niterói, RJ CEP 24230-340, Brazil.
| | - Pedro Henrique Nicolau Pinto
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Av. Vital Brasil Filho, 64, Niterói, RJ CEP 24230-340, Brazil
| | | | - Nadiala Porto Ramalho
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Av. Vital Brasil Filho, 64, Niterói, RJ CEP 24230-340, Brazil
| | - Camila Correa Roza Laeber
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Av. Vital Brasil Filho, 64, Niterói, RJ CEP 24230-340, Brazil
| | - Mario Felipe Alvarez Balaro
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Av. Vital Brasil Filho, 64, Niterói, RJ CEP 24230-340, Brazil
| | | | | | - Jeferson Ferreira da Fonseca
- Embrapa Caprinos e Ovinos, Núcleo Regional Sudeste, Rodovia MG 133, Km 42, Coronel Pacheco, MG CEP 36155-000, Brazil
| | - Rodolfo Ungerfeld
- Departamento de Biociencias Veterinarias, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Ruta 8 km 18, Montevideo 13000, Uruguay
| | - Felipe Zandonadi Brandão
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Av. Vital Brasil Filho, 64, Niterói, RJ CEP 24230-340, Brazil.
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Zieliński K, Kloska A, Wygocki P, Zieleń M, Kunicki M. Exploring gonadotropin dosing effects on MII oocyte retrieval in ovarian stimulation. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024:10.1007/s10815-024-03102-z. [PMID: 38573535 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03102-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Ovarian stimulation with gonadotropins is crucial for obtaining mature oocytes for in vitro fertilization (IVF). Determining the optimal gonadotropin dosage is essential for maximizing its effectiveness. Our study aimed to develop a machine learning (ML) model to predict oocyte counts in IVF patients and retrospectively analyze whether higher gonadotropin doses improve ovarian stimulation outcomes. METHODS We analyzed the data from 9598 ovarian stimulations. An ML model was employed to predict the number of mature metaphase II (MII) oocytes based on clinical parameters. These predictions were compared with the actual counts of retrieved MII oocytes at different gonadotropin dosages. RESULTS The ML model provided precise predictions of MII counts, with the AMH and AFC being the most important, and the previous stimulation outcome and age, the less important features for the prediction. Our findings revealed that increasing gonadotropin dosage did not result in a higher number of retrieved MII oocytes. Specifically, for patients predicted to produce 4-8 MII oocytes, a decline in oocyte count was observed as gonadotropin dosage increased. Patients with low (1-3) and high (9-12) MII predictions achieved the best results when administered a daily dose of 225 IU; lower and higher doses proved to be less effective. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that high gonadotropin doses do not enhance MII oocyte retrieval. Our ML model can offer clinicians a novel tool for the precise prediction of MII to guide gonadotropin dosing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krystian Zieliński
- INVICTA Research and Development Center, Sopot, Poland
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Electronics, Telecommunications and Informatics, Gdańsk University of Technology, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Anna Kloska
- INVICTA Research and Development Center, Sopot, Poland.
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland.
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Green ES, Chan HY, Frost E, Griffiths M, Hutchison J, Martin JH, Mihalas BP, Newman T, Dunleavy JEM. Recent advances in reproductive research in Australia and New Zealand: highlights from the Annual Meeting of the Society for Reproductive Biology, 2022. Reprod Fertil Dev 2024; 36:RD23213. [PMID: 38346692 DOI: 10.1071/rd23213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
In 2022, the Society for Reproductive Biology came together in Christchurch New Zealand (NZ), for its first face-to-face meeting since the global COVID-19 pandemic. The meeting showcased recent advancements in reproductive research across a diverse range of themes relevant to human health and fertility, exotic species conservation, and agricultural breeding practices. Here, we highlight the key advances presented across the main themes of the meeting, including advances in addressing opportunities and challenges in reproductive health related to First Nations people in Australia and NZ; increasing conservation success of exotic species, including ethical management of invasive species; improvements in our understanding of developmental biology, specifically seminal fluid signalling, ovarian development and effects of environmental impacts such as endocrine-disrupting chemicals; and leveraging scientific breakthroughs in reproductive engineering to drive solutions for fertility, including in assisted reproductive technologies in humans and agricultural industries, and for regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ella S Green
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Hon Y Chan
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Emily Frost
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Meaghan Griffiths
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia; and Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Jennifer Hutchison
- School of BioSciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia; and Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton Vic., Australia; and Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Vic., Australia
| | - Jacinta H Martin
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia; and Infertility and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Bettina P Mihalas
- The Oocyte Biology Research Unit, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of NSW Sydney, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Trent Newman
- School of BioSciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Jessica E M Dunleavy
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
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Karl KR, Schall PZ, Clark ZL, Ruebel ML, Cibelli J, Tempelman RJ, Latham KE, Ireland JJ. Ovarian stimulation with excessive FSH doses causes cumulus cell and oocyte dysfunction in small ovarian reserve heifers. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad033. [PMID: 37713463 PMCID: PMC10541857 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Excessive FSH doses during ovarian stimulation in the small ovarian reserve heifer (SORH) cause premature cumulus expansion and follicular hyperstimulation dysgenesis (FHD) in nearly all ovulatory-size follicles with predicted disruptions in cell-signaling pathways in cumulus cells and oocytes (before ovulatory hCG stimulation). These observations support the hypothesis that excessive FSH dysregulates cumulus cell function and oocyte maturation. To test this hypothesis, we determined whether excessive FSH-induced differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in cumulus cells identified in our previously published transcriptome analysis were altered independent of extreme phenotypic differences observed amongst ovulatory-size follicles, and assessed predicted roles of these DEGs in cumulus and oocyte biology. We also determined if excessive FSH alters cumulus cell morphology, and oocyte nuclear maturation before (premature) or after an ovulatory hCG stimulus or during IVM. Excessive FSH doses increased expression of 17 cumulus DEGs with known roles in cumulus cell and oocyte functions (responsiveness to gonadotrophins, survival, expansion, and oocyte maturation). Excessive FSH also induced premature cumulus expansion and oocyte maturation but inhibited cumulus expansion and oocyte maturation post-hCG and diminished the ability of oocytes with prematurely expanded cumulus cells to undergo IVF or nuclear maturation during IVM. Ovarian stimulation with excessive FSH is concluded to disrupt cumulus cell and oocyte functions by inducing premature cumulus expansion and dysregulating oocyte maturation without an ovulatory hCG stimulus yielding poor-quality cumulus-oocyte complexes that may be incorrectly judged morphologically as suitable for IVF during ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlin R Karl
- Department of Animal Science, Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Peter Z Schall
- Department of Animal Science, Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Zaramasina L Clark
- Department of Animal Science, Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Meghan L Ruebel
- Department of Animal Science, Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Jose Cibelli
- Department of Animal Science, Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Robert J Tempelman
- Department of Animal Science, Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Keith E Latham
- Department of Animal Science, Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - James J Ireland
- Department of Animal Science, Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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Kobanawa M. The gonadotropins starting dose calculator, which can be adjusted the target number of oocytes and stimulation duration days to achieve individualized controlled ovarian stimulation in Japanese patients. Reprod Med Biol 2023; 22:e12499. [PMID: 36699956 PMCID: PMC9853467 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To create a gonadotropin starting dose calculator for controlled ovarian stimulation, which can adjust the target number of oocytes and stimulation duration for each facility to achieve individualized controlled ovarian stimulation among the Japanese patients. Methods The patients received controlled ovarian stimulation using the gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist protocol, and oocytes were retrieved. Using single regression analysis, we selected age, anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), and initial serum follicle-stimulating hormone as variables to predict the number of oocytes retrieved per gonadotropin dose (oocyte sensitivity index). Each variable was then analyzed using backward stepwise multiple regression. Results Age and AMH were selected as predictive variables from the backward stepwise multiple regression, and we developed a multiple regression equation. We decomposed the equation as the number of oocytes retrieved/(gonadotropin starting dose × stimulation duration days) and created a calculation formula to predict the gonadotropin starting dose from the target number of oocytes and stimulation duration days. Conclusions This is the first study to develop an individualized dosing algorithm for gonadotropins among Japanese patients. Our calculator will improve controlled ovarian stimulation performance and enable national standardization by allowing all physicians, regardless of their years of experience, to determine the appropriate starting dose of gonadotropins equally.
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Clark ZL, Ruebel ML, Schall PZ, Karl KR, Ireland JJ, Latham KE. Follicular Hyperstimulation Dysgenesis: New Explanation for Adverse Effects of Excessive FSH in Ovarian Stimulation. Endocrinology 2022; 163:bqac100. [PMID: 35833461 PMCID: PMC9342683 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
High follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) doses during ovarian stimulation protocols for assisted reproductive technologies (ART) are detrimental to ovulatory follicle function and oocyte quality. However, the mechanisms are unclear. In a small ovarian reserve heifer model, excessive FSH doses lead to phenotypic heterogeneity of ovulatory size follicles, with most follicles displaying signs of premature luteinization and a range in severity of abnormalities. By performing whole transcriptome analyses of granulosa cells, cumulus cells, and oocytes from individual follicles of animals given standard or excessive FSH doses, we identified progressive changes in the transcriptomes of the 3 cell types, with increasing severity of follicular abnormality with the excessive doses. The granulosa and cumulus cells each diverged progressively from their normal phenotypes and became highly similar to each other in the more severely affected follicles. Pathway analysis indicates a possible dysregulation of the final stages of folliculogenesis, with processes characteristic of ovulation and luteinization occurring concurrently rather than sequentially in the most severely affected follicles. These changes were associated with disruptions in key pathways in granulosa and cumulus cells, which may account for previously reported reduced estradiol production, enhanced progesterone and oxytocin production and diminished ovulation rates. Predicted deficiencies in oocyte survival, stress response, and fertilization suggest likely reductions in oocyte health, which could further compromise oocyte quality and ART outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaramasina L Clark
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program and the Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Meghan L Ruebel
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program and the Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- USDA-ARS Arkansas Children’s Nutrition Center 15 Children’s Way Little Rock, AR 72202, USA
| | - Peter Z Schall
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program and the Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- University of Michigan Medical School, Department of Human Genetics, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Kaitlin R Karl
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program and the Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - James J Ireland
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program and the Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Keith E Latham
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program and the Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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Fanton M, Nutting V, Rothman A, Maeder-York P, Hariton E, Barash O, Weckstein L, Sakkas D, Copperman AB, Loewke K. An interpretable machine learning model for individualized gonadotropin starting dose selection during ovarian stimulation. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:1152-1159. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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Clark ZL, Karl KR, Ruebel ML, Latham KE, Ireland JJ. Excessive follicle-stimulating hormone during ovarian stimulation of cattle may induce premature luteinization of most ovulatory-size follicles†. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:968-978. [PMID: 35084014 PMCID: PMC9113431 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
High follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) doses during ovarian stimulation are detrimental to ovulatory follicle function and decrease live birth rate in cattle and women. However, the mechanism whereby excessive FSH causes ovarian dysfunction is unknown. This study tested the hypothesis that excessive FSH during ovarian stimulation induces premature luteinization of ovulatory-size follicles. Small ovarian reserve heifers were injected twice daily for 4 days with 70 IU (N = 7 heifers) or 210 IU (N = 6 heifers) Folltropin-V [commercial FSH-enriched preparation of porcine pituitary glands with minor (<1%) luteinizing hormone (LH) contamination, cpFSH]. Ovulatory-size (≥10 mm) follicles were excised from ovaries after the last cpFSH injection and hormone concentrations in follicular fluid (FF) were determined using ELISA. Luteinization was monitored by assessing cumulus cell-oocyte complex (COC) morphology and measuring concentrations of estradiol (E), progesterone (P), and oxytocin (O) in FF. COCs were classified as having compact (cCOC) or expanded (eCOC) cumulus cell layers, and as estrogen-active (E:P in FF ≥1), estrogen-inactive (EI, E:P in FF ≤1 > 0.1), or extreme-estrogen-inactive (EEI, E:P in FF ≤0.1). A high proportion (72%) of ovulatory-size follicles in 210 IU, but not 70 IU, dose heifers displayed eCOCs. The high doses also produced higher proportions of EI or EEI follicles which had lower E:P ratio and/or E but higher P and/or O concentrations compared with the 70 IU dose heifers. In conclusion, excessive cpFSH doses during ovarian stimulation may induce premature luteinization of most ovulatory-size follicles in heifers with small ovarian reserves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaramasina L Clark
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Kaitlin R Karl
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Meghan L Ruebel
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Keith E Latham
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - James J Ireland
- Correspondence: Molecular Reproductive Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA. Tel: +1517 432 1384; E-mail:
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Karl KR, Ireland JLH, Clark ZL, Tempelman RJ, Latham KE, Ireland JJ. Limitations in use of ovarian reserve biomarkers to predict the superovulation response in small ovarian reserve heifers. Theriogenology 2022; 182:53-62. [PMID: 35123311 PMCID: PMC8863639 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.01.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
High FSH doses during superovulation of heifers with a small ovarian reserve increase the number of dysfunctional ovulatory-size follicles that do not ovulate in response to human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Thus, anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and antral follicle count (AFC), two well-established biomarkers of responsiveness of individuals to superovulation, are hypothesized to be positively linked to number of dysfunctional ovulatory-size follicles developing in response to superovulation with high FSH doses. To test this hypothesis, heifers with a small ovarian reserve were stimulated beginning on Day 1 of the estrous cycle with twice daily treatments for 4 days with each of four Folltropin-V (FSH) doses (35 IU, 70 IU (industry standard), 140 IU, or 210 IU) followed by prostaglandin F2α to regress corpora lutea (CL) from the previous estrous cycle and hCG to induce ovulation. Ovulatory-size follicles were classified as functional or dysfunctional based on whether they ovulated and formed CL in response to hCG. FSH dose did not impact the relationship between AMH, AFC and the number of functional or dysfunctional ovulatory-size follicles developing in response to superovulation. Thus, data from the four superovulations were averaged for each heifer. AMH and AFC were positively associated with the subsequent number of functional and dysfunctional ovulatory-size follicles and the proportion of ovulatory-size follicles that are dysfunctional after superovulation. Because measurements of AMH concentration and AFC predict the number but not functionality of ovulatory-size follicles, which may also impact oocyte quality, these ovarian reserve biomarkers are concluded to be unlikely useful to improve IVF or embryo transfer outcomes in heifers with a small ovarian reserve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlin R Karl
- Molecular Reproductive Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Janet L H Ireland
- Molecular Reproductive Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Zaramasina L Clark
- Molecular Reproductive Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Robert J Tempelman
- Molecular Reproductive Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Keith E Latham
- Molecular Reproductive Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - James J Ireland
- Molecular Reproductive Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA.
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Lawrenz B, Melado L, Digma S, Sibal J, Coughlan C, Andersen CY, Fatemi HM. Reintroducing serum FSH measurement during ovarian stimulation for ART. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 44:548-556. [PMID: 34973935 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What is the impact of systemic FSH concentrations during ovarian stimulation for IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection on systemic progesterone concentrations in the late follicular phase? DESIGN Post-hoc analysis of a previously performed randomized controlled trial (RCT) performed between November 2017 and February 2020 in a tertiary IVF centre. The RCT included patients with infertility undergoing ovarian stimulation in a gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist protocol. The GnRH antagonist was administered at 08:00 h and recombinant FSH at 20:00 h. Ultrasound and blood tests were performed 3-5 h after the GnRH antagonist. RESULTS The subgroup analysis comprised 105 patients. Systemic FSH concentrations increased from Day 2/3 until initiation of GnRH antagonist and remained constant until the day of trigger (DoT). The total group was split according to the median FSH DoT concentration (12.95 IU/l; Group A <12.95 IU/l; Group B ≥12.95 IU/l). Significant differences, with the higher concentrations in Group B, were found for: systemic FSH concentration on Day 2/3 (P = 0.04), total gonadotrophin dosage (P = 0.03), progesterone on DoT (P = 0.001) and progesterone per follicle (P = 0.004). In the total group, systemic DoT FSH concentration was statistically significantly positively correlated with the DoT progesterone concentration and the ratio of progesterone per follicle (ρ = 0.37 and 0.38, respectively, both P < 0.001). No significant correlations were seen between the systemic DoT FSH concentration and the number of retrieved oocytes. CONCLUSION While ovarian response seems to be independent from the systemic FSH concentrations on the DoT, high concentrations of circulatory FSH augment the production of progesterone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Lawrenz
- IVF Department, ART Fertility Clinics, Abu Dhabi, UAE; Women's University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany.
| | - Laura Melado
- IVF Department, ART Fertility Clinics, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Shieryl Digma
- IVF Department, ART Fertility Clinics, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Junard Sibal
- Clinical Laboratory, ART Fertility Clinics, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Claus Yding Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Section 5712, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, Copenhagen, University Hospital and Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet Copenhagen, Denmark
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Song D, Hong L, Zhang ZF, Xu JH, Zhang HQ, Huang XL, Du J. The FSHR G-29A variant is not associated with the ovarian response to exogenous FSH stimulation. Am J Reprod Immunol 2021; 86:e13500. [PMID: 34558137 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13500] [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: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
A common genetic variant in the follicle stimulating hormone receptor gene (FSHR) 5'-untranslated region has been previously reported to influence FSHR gene expression. However, studies on the ovarian response to exogenous gonadotropin stimulation are limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of variants at positions -29 of the FSHR gene with the ovarian response to exogenous FSH stimulation in Chinese women. The genotypes of the FSHR gene were assayed using the Sequenom MassARRAY system. Total RNA and protein was extracted from granulosa cells, and FSHR expression at the mRNA and protein levels was assessed using quantitative PCR and western blotting. Our data revealed that there was no association between the FSHR genotype at the -29 position and the outcome of controlled ovarian stimulation. The expression of FSHR, at both the mRNA and protein levels, was similar amongst the different FSHR genotypes assessed, but was significantly reduced in the low responders. These results indicate that the variants caused by mutations at position -29 are not associated with ovarian response, and the low ovarian response to gonadotropin stimulation may be caused by decreased FSHR expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Song
- Naval Medical University, Changhai Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling Hong
- Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhao-Feng Zhang
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian-Hua Xu
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui-Qin Zhang
- Naval Medical University, Changhai Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Xian-Liang Huang
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Du
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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