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Morcel K, Merviel P, Pertuisel D, James P, Bouée S, Le Guillou M, Chabaud JJ, Roche S, Drapier H, Perrin A, Beauvillard D. Live Birth Rates in Women Under 38 Years Old with AMH Level < 1.2 ng/ml in the First In Vitro Fertilization + / - Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection: Retrospective Study and Arguments for Care. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:1133-1142. [PMID: 36175614 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01091-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Many studies failed to show a predictive impact of AMH levels on the chances of pregnancy; however, acceptable pregnancy rates for young women with low AMH levels were observed in IVF + / - ICSI. The objectives of this retrospective study were to evaluate the clinical pregnancy and live birth rates in the first IVF + / - ICSI cycle in women under 38 years old with AMH level < 1.2 ng/ml and to determine the arguments for care. We classified the women into three groups: group A: AMH < 0.4 ng/ml (n: 86); group B: AMH: 0.4 to 0.8 ng/ml (n: 90); and group C: AMH > 0.8 to < 1.2 ng/ml (n: 92). We recorded data on the patients' characteristics, stimulation cycles, embryo cultures, and ongoing pregnancies. No difference was observed between the three groups for the number of embryos transferred, the clinical pregnancy, and the live birth rates (LBR) per embryo transfer (LBR/transfer: 24.1% in group A, 25.9% in group B, and 28.1% in group C). The young age of the women reassures about the oocyte quality, but a low level of AMH may raise concerns about a lower quantitative oocyte yield, leading to accelerated management of the couple in IVF + / - ICSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karine Morcel
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, ART Center, Brest University Hospital, 2 Avenue Foch, 29200, Brest, France
| | - Philippe Merviel
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, ART Center, Brest University Hospital, 2 Avenue Foch, 29200, Brest, France.
| | - Diane Pertuisel
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, ART Center, Brest University Hospital, 2 Avenue Foch, 29200, Brest, France
| | - Pandora James
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, ART Center, Brest University Hospital, 2 Avenue Foch, 29200, Brest, France
| | - Sarah Bouée
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, ART Center, Brest University Hospital, 2 Avenue Foch, 29200, Brest, France
| | - Mathilde Le Guillou
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, ART Center, Brest University Hospital, 2 Avenue Foch, 29200, Brest, France
| | - Jean-Jacques Chabaud
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, ART Center, Brest University Hospital, 2 Avenue Foch, 29200, Brest, France
| | - Sylvie Roche
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, ART Center, Brest University Hospital, 2 Avenue Foch, 29200, Brest, France
| | - Hortense Drapier
- Department of Reproductive Biology, ART Center, Brest University Hospital, 2 Avenue Foch, 29200, Brest, France
| | - Aurore Perrin
- Department of Reproductive Biology, ART Center, Brest University Hospital, 2 Avenue Foch, 29200, Brest, France
| | - Damien Beauvillard
- Department of Reproductive Biology, ART Center, Brest University Hospital, 2 Avenue Foch, 29200, Brest, France
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Follicular Atresia, Cell Proliferation, and Anti-Mullerian Hormone in Two Neotropical Primates (Aotus nancymae and Sapajus macrocephalus). Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13061051. [PMID: 36978591 PMCID: PMC10044352 DOI: 10.3390/ani13061051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
This study evaluated the follicular atresia, cell proliferation, and anti-Mullerian hormone action in Aotus nancymae and Sapajus macrocephalus during three sexual phases (follicular, luteal, and gestational). Follicular quantification and immunolocalization of Caspase-3 protein, B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) were performed. A significant difference in the quantification between preantral and antral follicles, with a progressive decrease in the antrals, was identified. Protein and hormonal markers varied significantly between follicle cell types (A. nancymae p = 0.001; S. macrocephalus, p = 0.002). Immunostaining in the preantral and antral follicles was present in all sexual phases; for Caspase-3, in granulosa cells, oocytes, and stroma; for BCL-2, in granulosa cells, oocytes, and theca; and for PCNA and AMH, in oocytes and granulosa cells. The immunostaining for Caspase-3 was more expressive in the preantral follicles (follicular phase, p < 0.05), while that for BCL-2 and PCNA was more expressive in the antral follicles of the follicular phase. The AMH was more expressive in the primary and antral follicles of nonpregnant females, in both the follicular and luteal phases. Our results contribute to understanding the ovarian follicular selection, recruitment, and degeneration of these species.
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Kacem-Berjeb K, Braham M, Massoud CB, Hannachi H, Hamdoun M, Chtourou S, Debbabi L, Bouyahia M, Fadhlaoui A, Zhioua F, Feki A, Chakroun N, Bahri O. Does Endometriosis Impact the Composition of Follicular Fluid in IL6 and AMH? A Case-Control Study. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12051829. [PMID: 36902616 PMCID: PMC10002901 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12051829] [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: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to compare follicular liquid levels of IL6 and AMH in women with and without endometriosis and to evaluate their potential impact on ICSI outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS It is a prospective case-control study conducted on 25 women with proven endometriosis and 50 patients diagnosed with other causes of infertility. All these patients were candidates for ICSI cycles. Their follicular fluid was collected at the time of oocyte retrieval and used to evaluate IL-6 and AMH titers by electro-chemiluminescent immunoassay (Cobas e411-Roche). RESULTS The IL-6 levels in follicular fluid were higher in the endometriosis group than in the control group (152.3 vs. 19.9 pg/mL; p = 0.02). The median level for AMH was 2.2 ± 1.88 ng/mL with no statistical difference between the two groups (2.2 vs. 2.7 ng/mL, p = 0.41). No significant correlation between the follicular IL6 and AMH levels was observed. CONCLUSIONS The oocyte quality seems to be preserved in patients with endometriosis with the adequate response to ovarian stimulation. High levels of follicular IL6 are in accordance with the inflammatory phenomenon of the disease; however, this increase has no impact on ICSI outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadija Kacem-Berjeb
- Department of Reproductive Biology and Cytogenetics, Aziza Othmana Hospital, University of Tunis, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
- Research Laboratory LR16SP01 “Infertility and Oncofertility”, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +216-98538131
| | - Marouen Braham
- Research Laboratory LR16SP01 “Infertility and Oncofertility”, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Aziza Othmana Hospital, University of Tunis, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
| | - Cyrine Ben Massoud
- Department of Reproductive Biology and Cytogenetics, Aziza Othmana Hospital, University of Tunis, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
| | - Hela Hannachi
- Research Laboratory LR16SP01 “Infertility and Oncofertility”, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Microbiology-Biochemistry, Aziza Othmana Hospital, University of Tunis, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
| | - Manel Hamdoun
- Research Laboratory LR16SP01 “Infertility and Oncofertility”, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Microbiology-Biochemistry, Aziza Othmana Hospital, University of Tunis, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
| | - Sana Chtourou
- Department of Reproductive Biology and Cytogenetics, Aziza Othmana Hospital, University of Tunis, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
- Research Laboratory LR16SP01 “Infertility and Oncofertility”, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
| | - Linda Debbabi
- Department of Reproductive Biology and Cytogenetics, Aziza Othmana Hospital, University of Tunis, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
- Research Laboratory LR16SP01 “Infertility and Oncofertility”, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
| | - Maha Bouyahia
- Research Laboratory LR16SP01 “Infertility and Oncofertility”, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Aziza Othmana Hospital, University of Tunis, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
| | - Anis Fadhlaoui
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Aziza Othmana Hospital, University of Tunis, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
| | - Fethi Zhioua
- Research Laboratory LR16SP01 “Infertility and Oncofertility”, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Aziza Othmana Hospital, University of Tunis, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
| | - Anis Feki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cantonal Hospital Fribourg, 1708 Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Nozha Chakroun
- Department of Reproductive Biology and Cytogenetics, Aziza Othmana Hospital, University of Tunis, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
- Research Laboratory LR16SP01 “Infertility and Oncofertility”, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
| | - Olfa Bahri
- Research Laboratory LR16SP01 “Infertility and Oncofertility”, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Microbiology-Biochemistry, Aziza Othmana Hospital, University of Tunis, Tunis 1008, Tunisia
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Wang A, Letourneau JM, Juarez-Hernandez F, Abel MK, Mok-Lin E, Rosen MP. Hormone concentrations of dominant follicles in the TALES randomized controlled trial comparing letrozole with tamoxifen. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:2617-2624. [PMID: 36192617 PMCID: PMC9723077 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02626-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In this secondary analysis of the TAmoxifen or Letrozole in Estrogen Sensitive tumors (TALES) trial, we aimed to investigate if concurrent administration of letrozole vs. tamoxifen vs. no added treatment affects hormonal composition and size of stimulated ovarian follicles. METHODS TALES is a randomized controlled trial of IVF stimulation for estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer patients stimulated with gonadotropins and administered concurrent tamoxifen 20 mg or letrozole 5 mg. We analyzed estradiol (E2), testosterone (T), progesterone (P4), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH). We used ANOVA/Kruskal-Wallis, logistic, and linear regression models to examine differences in follicular hormone levels, size, and mature oocyte yield between trial arm. RESULTS We included data from total 246 follicles (94 letrozole, 82 tamoxifen, and 70 control) from 123 unique participants. E2 was lower (letrozole 187.4, tamoxifen 1026.0, control 821.5 ng/mL, p < 0.01) and T was higher (letrozole 2489, tamoxifen 571, and control 504 ng/mL, p < 0.03) in the letrozole group compared to tamoxifen and control groups, while other hormone levels and follicle size were similar across groups. There were no significant differences in hormone concentrations within the follicle between tamoxifen and control arms. On multivariate logistic regression, there was no significant association of mature oocyte yield by follicle size, hormone levels, or trial arm. CONCLUSIONS Concurrent administration of letrozole with gonadotropins affects follicular E2 and T concentrations compared to tamoxifen/control. Tamoxifen was not associated with any differences in hormone concentrations within the follicle. Mature oocyte yield was similar across groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ange Wang
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of California, San Francisco, 499 Illinois Street 6th Floor, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA.
| | | | - Flor Juarez-Hernandez
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of California, San Francisco, 499 Illinois Street 6th Floor, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Mary Kathryn Abel
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of California, San Francisco, 499 Illinois Street 6th Floor, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Evelyn Mok-Lin
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of California, San Francisco, 499 Illinois Street 6th Floor, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Mitchell P Rosen
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of California, San Francisco, 499 Illinois Street 6th Floor, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
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Gavisova AA, Shevtsova MA, Kindysheva SV, Starodubtseva NL, Frankevich VE, Nazarenko TA, Dolgushina NV. Androgen levels in blood and follicular fluid of IVF patients with diminished ovarian reserve. BULLETIN OF RUSSIAN STATE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY 2022. [DOI: 10.24075/brsmu.2022.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Androgen concentrations in follicular fluid samples collected from patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) may provide useful clinical indicators. This study aimed to analyze possible associations of the androgen levels in follicular fluid and blood plasma in patients with diminished ovarian reserve (POR) in IVF programs. Cross-sectional study with a parallel group design, conducted in 2019–2021, enrolled 300 patients with infertility, aged 18–42 years, applying for assisted reproduction involving IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection and embryo transfer. The androgen profiles of blood plasma and follicular fluid were determined by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Androgen concentrations in blood plasma and follicular fluid, particularly those of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA-S), androstenedione and total testosterone, significantly correlated. The results implicate androgen levels in blood plasma and follicular fluid as early markers of POR in patients with infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- AA Gavisova
- Kulakov national medical research center for obstetrics, gynecology and perinatology, Moscow, Russia
| | - MA Shevtsova
- Kulakov national medical research center for obstetrics, gynecology and perinatology, Moscow, Russia
| | - SV Kindysheva
- Kulakov national medical research center for obstetrics, gynecology and perinatology, Moscow, Russia
| | - NL Starodubtseva
- Kulakov national medical research center for obstetrics, gynecology and perinatology, Moscow, Russia
| | - VE Frankevich
- Kulakov national medical research center for obstetrics, gynecology and perinatology, Moscow, Russia
| | - TA Nazarenko
- Kulakov national medical research center for obstetrics, gynecology and perinatology, Moscow, Russia
| | - NV Dolgushina
- Kulakov national medical research center for obstetrics, gynecology and perinatology, Moscow, Russia
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Brinca AT, Ramalhinho AC, Sousa Â, Oliani AH, Breitenfeld L, Passarinha LA, Gallardo E. Follicular Fluid: A Powerful Tool for the Understanding and Diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Biomedicines 2022; 10:1254. [PMID: 35740276 PMCID: PMC9219683 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) represents one of the leading causes of anovulatory infertility and affects 5% to 20% of women worldwide. Until today, both the subsequent etiology and pathophysiology of PCOS remain unclear, and patients with PCOS that undergo assisted reproductive techniques (ART) might present a poor to exaggerated response, low oocyte quality, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, as well as changes in the follicular fluid metabolites pattern. These abnormalities originate a decrease of Metaphase II (MII) oocytes and decreased rates for fertilization, cleavage, implantation, blastocyst conversion, poor egg to follicle ratio, and increased miscarriages. Focus on obtaining high-quality embryos has been taken into more consideration over the years. Nowadays, the use of metabolomic analysis in the quantification of proteins and peptides in biological matrices might predict, with more accuracy, the success in assisted reproductive technology. In this article, we review the use of human follicular fluid as the matrix in metabolomic analysis for diagnostic and ART predictor of success for PCOS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Teresa Brinca
- Health Sciences Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal; (A.T.B.); (Â.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Ana Cristina Ramalhinho
- Health Sciences Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal; (A.T.B.); (Â.S.); (L.B.)
- Assisted Reproduction Laboratory of Academic Hospital of Cova da Beira, 6200-251 Covilhã, Portugal;
- C4-Cloud Computing Competence Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Ângela Sousa
- Health Sciences Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal; (A.T.B.); (Â.S.); (L.B.)
| | - António Hélio Oliani
- Assisted Reproduction Laboratory of Academic Hospital of Cova da Beira, 6200-251 Covilhã, Portugal;
- São José do Rio Preto School of Medicine, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, São José do Rio Preto 15090-000, Brazil
| | - Luiza Breitenfeld
- Health Sciences Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal; (A.T.B.); (Â.S.); (L.B.)
- C4-Cloud Computing Competence Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Luís A. Passarinha
- Health Sciences Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal; (A.T.B.); (Â.S.); (L.B.)
- UCIBIO–Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Departament of Chemistry, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2819-516 Caparica, Portugal
- Laboratório de Fármaco-Toxicologia, UBIMedical, University of Beira Interior, 6200-284 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Eugenia Gallardo
- Health Sciences Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal; (A.T.B.); (Â.S.); (L.B.)
- Laboratório de Fármaco-Toxicologia, UBIMedical, University of Beira Interior, 6200-284 Covilhã, Portugal
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Sciorio R, Miranian D, Smith GD. Non-invasive oocyte quality assessment. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:274-290. [PMID: 35136962 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte quality is perhaps the most important limiting factor in female fertility; however, the current methods of determining oocyte competence are only marginally capable of predicting a successful pregnancy. We aim to review the predictive value of non-invasive techniques for the assessment of human oocytes and their related cells and biofluids that pertain to their developmental competence. Investigation of the proteome, transcriptome, and hormonal makeup of follicular fluid, as well as cumulus-oocyte complexes are currently underway; however, prospective randomized non-selection-controlled trials of the future are needed before determining their prognostic value. The biological significance of polar body morphology and genetics are still unknown and the subject of debate. The predictive utility of zygotic viscoelasticity for embryo development has been demonstrated, but similar studies performed on oocytes have yet to be conducted. Metabolic profiling of culture media using human oocytes are also limited and may require integration of automated, high-throughput targeted metabolomic assessments in real time with microfluidic platforms. Light exposure to oocytes can be detrimental to subsequent development and utilization of time-lapse imaging and morphometrics of oocytes is wanting. Polarized light, Raman microspectroscopy, and coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering are a few novel imaging tools that may play a more important role in future oocyte assessment. Ultimately, the integration of chemistry, genomics, microfluidics, microscopy, physics, and other biomedical engineering technologies into the basic studies of oocyte biology, and in testing and perfecting practical solutions of oocyte evaluation, are the future for non-invasive assessment of oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Edinburgh Assisted Conception Programme, EFREC, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Daniel Miranian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Gary D Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Physiology, Urology, and Reproductive Sciences Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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Fouché N, Gerber V, Bruckmaier RM, Erni-Wespi B, Zander Y, Vidondo B, Sieme H, Claes A, Kaeser R, Burger D. Assessment of anti-Müllerian hormone in mares' transitional period and in relation to fertility in elderly mares. Theriogenology 2022; 179:97-102. [PMID: 34864361 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) has been linked to reproductive tract abnormalities in mares and stallions. This study aimed at evaluating AMH as a biomarker for two reproductive conditions in mares. In the first part of this study, plasma AMH was evaluated as an early indicator of the onset of cyclicity in mares in the transitional period from the anovulatory phase during winter anoestrus to the cyclic phase during the breeding season. Ten mares between 8 and 17 years old were included in the experiment which lasted from mid-February until the end of April. Ovarian activity was monitored with ultrasonography three times per week, the detection of a corpus haemorrhagicum/luteum was documented and antral follicle counts (AFC) were recorded. Blood samples were collected weekly by jugular venipuncture during the whole study period to compare AMH concentrations before and after the first ovulation of the year. The second objective was to evaluate if plasma AMH concentrations in middle-aged mares are linked to fertility and could serve as a prognostic marker in that age group. A total of 41 privately-owned clinically sound mares aged between 12 and 21 years of various breeds were inseminated with fresh or frozen semen. Mares were scanned between day 14 and 20 and the "early pregnancy rate" included only positive pregnancy examinations after the first observed cycle in the season of each mare. Potential associations between the early pregnancy rate in the first cycle and the explanatory factors AMH concentrations, age, status of the mare, stud, development of post-breeding endometritis, number of inseminations and semen type were analysed using logistic regression models. In the first part of the study, correlation between AMH and AFC for the whole study period (P = 0.0002, ρ = 0.55) as well as prior to (P = 0.008, ρ = 0.58) and after the first ovulation (P = 0.0007, ρ = 0.69) were observed. However, AMH concentrations before and after the first ovulation of the year were not statistically different. The second part of the study revealed no association between early pregnancy rate and AMH concentrations or any of the other mentioned factors. In conclusion, this study showed no evidence of a difference between AMH concentrations before and after the first ovulation of the year thus not supporting the use of AMH as a biomarker to predict the onset of cyclicity in mares. We could furthermore not show a relationship between plasma AMH concentrations and early pregnancy rates in this cohort of animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Fouché
- Swiss Institute of Equine Medicine, University of Bern, and Agroscope, Bern, Avenches, Switzerland
| | - V Gerber
- Swiss Institute of Equine Medicine, University of Bern, and Agroscope, Bern, Avenches, Switzerland
| | - R M Bruckmaier
- Veterinary Physiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - B Erni-Wespi
- Swiss Institute of Equine Medicine, University of Bern, and Agroscope, Bern, Avenches, Switzerland
| | - Y Zander
- Haupt- und Landgestüt Marbach, Gomadingen, Germany
| | - B Vidondo
- Veterinary Public Health Institute, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - H Sieme
- Clinic for Horses - Unit for Reproductive Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Germany
| | - A Claes
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, the Netherlands
| | - R Kaeser
- Swiss Institute of Equine Medicine, University of Bern, and Agroscope, Bern, Avenches, Switzerland
| | - D Burger
- Swiss Institute of Equine Medicine, University of Bern, and Agroscope, Bern, Avenches, Switzerland.
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Witzke L, Leser S, Nesbigall M, Pfefferle PI, Wagner U, Ziller V. The role of follicular anti-Mullerian hormone in women undergoing IVF/ICSI with regard to size, oocyte presence, sociodemographic parameters, treatment variables, and other hormones and vitamins. Gynecol Endocrinol 2022; 38:124-129. [PMID: 34519591 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2021.1967313] [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] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between follicular anti-Mullerian hormone (fAMH) regarding follicle size, the presence of an oocyte, sociodemographic parameters, and other hormones and vitamins in follicular fluid. MATERIALS AND METHODS This prospective exploratory cohort study included 376 follicles from 61 women undergoing IVF/ICSI cycles. The size of each follicle was measured individually, and they were divided into a large and a small group according to their size. The presence of oocytes was detected on the day of oocyte retrieval. Sociodemographic factors were documented during the course of preliminary testing. Then, other parameters of patients' serum and follicular fluid were measured. RESULTS Small follicles contained a significantly higher concentration of fAMH than large ones did. We showed that the presence of an oocyte in a follicle is associated with a significantly higher fAMH level than in those without one (p < .001). There exists a significant but weak correlation between fAMH and the sociodemographic parameter of patients' age (r = -0.11, p < .001). We did not find a correlation with the patients' BMI (r = 0.03, p < .006). We also investigated the connections between fAMH and other parameters, such as vitamin D (r = -0.13, p < .001), LH (r = 0.35, p < .001)), and progesterone (r = -0.21, p < .001) in follicular fluid. CONCLUSIONS This knowledge can be useful for the future development of reproductive medicine. Our results can provide an important building block for this matter.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Witzke
- Department Gynecology Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - S Leser
- Department Gynecology Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - M Nesbigall
- Department Gynecology Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - P I Pfefferle
- Comprehensive Biobank Marburg, Philipps University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - U Wagner
- Department Gynecology Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - V Ziller
- Department Gynecology Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg, Marburg, Germany
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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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11
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Skowrońska P, Kunicki M, Pastuszek E, Konieczna L, Bączek T, Męczekalski B, Smolarczyk R, Łukaszuk K. Vitamin D and anti-Müllerian hormone concentration in human follicular fluid individually aspirated from all patient follicles. Gynecol Endocrinol 2022; 38:28-32. [PMID: 34044669 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2021.1933934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The main aim of this prospective study was to investigate the relationship between intrafollicular vitamin D and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) concentration and its impact on oocyte quality and developmental competence. METHODS The analysis was performed on 208 follicular fluid (FF) samples obtained from 33 patients undergoing ovarian stimulation as part of in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment that included intracytoplasmic sperm injection. RESULTS Our study shows that vitamin D concentration in FF varies according to the developmental stage of the oocyte and corelates with embryo development status on day 3, while AMH concentration in FF is not correlated with the developmental potential of an oocyte. We demonstrated that the levels of vitamin D and AMH were higher in FF than in serum. Moreover we showed that AMH and vitamin D levels were positively correlated in FF but not in serum. CONCLUSION FF-AMH levels do not appear to be a suitable as noninvasive test of the developmental potential of an oocyte, while FF-vitamin D level can be used to evaluate whether embryos obtained from particular oocytes have potential of reaching the third day of culture. However, our results encourage further research to be carried out on a larger number of patients and testing additional components found in FF such as androgens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michał Kunicki
- INVICTA Fertility and Reproductive Center, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ewa Pastuszek
- INVICTA Fertility and Reproductive Center, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Lucyna Konieczna
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Tomasz Bączek
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Błażej Męczekalski
- Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Roman Smolarczyk
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Łukaszuk
- INVICTA Fertility and Reproductive Center, Warsaw, Poland
- INVICTA Fertility and Reproductive Center, Gdansk, Poland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecological Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
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12
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Huang Y, Tu M, Qian Y, Ma J, Chen L, Liu Y, Wu Y, Chen K, Liu J, Ying Y, Chen Y, Ye Y, Xing L, Zhang F, Hu Y, Zhang R, Ruan YC, Zhang D. Age-Dependent Metabolomic Profile of the Follicular Fluids From Women Undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technology Treatment. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:818888. [PMID: 35250874 PMCID: PMC8888916 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.818888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Female fertility declines with age, and this natural variation culminates in reproductive senescence. Human follicular fluids are rich in low-molecular weight metabolites which are responsible for the maturation of oocytes. The metabolomic approaches are powerful tools to study biochemical markers of oocyte quality in the follicular fluids. It is necessary to identify and quantify the reliable metabolites in follicular fluids reflecting oocyte developmental potential. The goal of this study is to conduct a metabolomic analysis of the follicular fluids in women of different ages and study the metabolomic profile of the follicular fluids in relationship with oocyte quality in assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment. A total of 30 women seeking for ART treatment at the Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine from October 2014 to April 2015 were recruited for the present study. Fifteen women aged from 39 to 47 were grouped as advanced maternal age, and the other 15 women aged from 27 to 34, as young controls. Ovarian stimulation and oocyte retrieval were conducted using a regular protocol involving mid-luteal pituitary down-regulation and controlled ovarian stimulation. Follicular fluids from mature follicles were collected and centrifuged for analyses. Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS) were used to perform the quantitative metabolomic analysis. The follicular fluid levels of 311 metabolites and the metabolic significance were assessed. 70 metabolites showed significant differences between women with young and advanced ages. Follicular fluids from women with advanced age showed significantly higher levels of creatine, histidine, methionine, trans-4-hydroxyproline, choline, mevalonate, N2,N2-dimethylguanosine and gamma-glutamylvaline, as compared to those from the young age group. 8 metabolites were found significantly correlated with maternal age positively. Moreover, 3 metabolites were correlated with the number of oocytes retrieved, and 5 metabolites were correlated with cleaved embryo numbers, both negatively. The follicular fluids from women undergoing ART treatment exhibited age-dependent metabolomic profile. Metabolites associated with oocyte quality were identified, suggesting them as potential biomarkers for oocyte maturation and ART outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Huang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mixue Tu
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuli Qian
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junyan Ma
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lifen Chen
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yifeng Liu
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yiqing Wu
- Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health Research of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kai Chen
- Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health Research of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Juan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yanyun Ying
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yinghui Ye
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lanfeng Xing
- Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health Research of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health Research of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yanjun Hu
- Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health Research of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Runjv Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ye Chun Ruan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Dan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Women’s Reproductive Health Research of Zhejiang Province and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Dan Zhang, ; orcid.org/0000-0003-1295-4795
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Lai TH, Chen HT, Wu WB. TGFβ1 induces in-vitro and ex-vivo angiogenesis through VEGF production in human ovarian follicular fluid-derived granulosa cells during in-vitro fertilization cycle. J Reprod Immunol 2021; 145:103311. [PMID: 33812317 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2021.103311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
A growing body of evidence indicates that angiogenesis in folliculogenesis contributes to oocyte developmental competence in natural and in-vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle of animals. Among the known angiogenic factors, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has an important role involved in angiogenesis. However, its expression level and regulatory mechanism in ovarian follicular fluid (FF) in patients undergoing IVF with controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) remains to be explored. In this study, the primary cultured human ovarian follicular granulosa cells (GCs) were prepared from FF and their identity was characterized by the presence of the GC specific markers. The transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) was found to induce a significant increase in VEGF mRNA level and protein expression/secretion in GCs. In line with these observations, TGFβ1 could be detected in the ovarian FF, ranging from about 400 to 2000 pg/mL among three IVF patient groups with different patient's serum Anti-Müllerian hormone level. The cellular signaling analysis revealed that TGFβ1 induced VEGF production through TGFβ receptor (TGFβR), Smad2/3, PI3 K/AKT, and JNK1/2-related signaling pathways. Finally, in a functional study, the TGFβ1-primed GC VEGF secretion promoted in-vitro angiogenesis in vascular endothelial cells and ex-vivo vessel sprouting in aortic ring. Taken together, we demonstrated here that TGFβ1 expressed in ovarian FF is an inducer for promoting VEGF production in follicular GCs through TGFβR-mediated signaling pathways and the released VEGF subsequently leads to angiogenesis. This possibly contributes to oocyte developmental competence in folliculogenesis of IVF patients with a COS protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsung-Hsuan Lai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; School of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Hsuan-Ting Chen
- School of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan; Ph.D. Program in Biopharmaceutical Biotechnology, College of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Bin Wu
- School of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Science, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.
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14
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Gonadotropin Stimulation Has Only a Limited Effect on the Concentration of Follicular Fluid Signalling Proteins: An Antibody Array Analysis. Int J Reprod Med 2021; 2021:2906164. [PMID: 33575317 PMCID: PMC7857919 DOI: 10.1155/2021/2906164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The follicular fluid (FF) plays an essential role in the physiology of the follicle and the oocyte. Gonadotropin stimulation affects the FF steroid hormone and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) concentrations, which has been suggested to be the reason for lower oocyte competence in conventional gonadotropin stimulated in vitro fertilisation (cIVF) compared to natural cycle IVF (NC-IVF). To analyse the effect of gonadotropin stimulation on a broad spectrum of signalling proteins, we ran proteomic antibody arrays on FF of women undergoing both treatments NC-IVF and cIVF. Method Twenty women underwent one NC-IVF and one cIVF treatment cycle. Follicular fluids of the first aspirated follicle were compared between the two groups using a protein microarray which included antibodies against 224 proteins related to cell signalling and reference proteins. Each of the 40 albumin-stripped, matched-pair samples was labelled in the reverse-dye (Cy3/Cy5) procedure before undergoing array hybridisation. Signal analysis was performed using normalisation algorithms in dedicated software. Five proteins yielding a value of P < 0.05 in the array experiment (Cystatin A, Caspase-3, GAD65/67, ERK-1, and ERK-2) were then submitted to quantitative determination by ELISA in the same follicular fluids. Results Array analysis yielded only a small number of differentially expressed signalling markers by unadjusted P values. Adjustment as a consequence of multiple determinations resulted in the absence of any significant differential marker expression on the array. Five unadjusted differentially expressed proteins were quantified immunometrically with antibodies from different sources. Follicular fluid concentrations of Cystatin A and MAP kinase ERK-1 concentrations were significantly higher in the cIVF than in the NC-IVF follicles, while GAD-2 (GAD65/67) did not differ. The assays for Caspase-3 and MAP kinase ERK-2 did not have the required sensitivities. Conclusion In contrast to FF steroid hormones and AMH, FF concentrations of signalling proteins are not or only marginally altered by gonadotropin stimulation.
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15
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von Wolff M, Mitter VR, Jamir N, Stute P, Eisenhut M, Bersinger NA. The endocrine milieu in naturally matured follicles is different in women with high serum anti-Müllerian hormone concentrations. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 43:329-337. [PMID: 34176772 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Is the endocrine milieu different in women with low serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) concentration compared with women with high concentration? DESIGN Cohort study of 84 women (four groups) classified according to AMH concentration and age undergoing natural cycle IVF treatment. Concentrations of LH, oestradiol, testosterone, androstenedione and AMH were determined in follicular fluid (FF), associations analysed and clinical outcome parameters evaluated. RESULTS A positive correlation between serum and FF AMH concentrations was confirmed. Follicular fluid androstenedione concentration was positively correlated with serum AMH concentration (P < 0.0001, r2 = 0.197). The correlation between FF LH and FF testosterone concentration in all women was not significant (P = 0.050, r2 = 0.046); however, the correlation between FF androstenedione in women with high serum AMH concentration was significant (P = 0.032, r2 = 0.220). Follicular fluid testosterone and androstenedione were positively correlated with FF oestradiol overall and in some individual groups. The high serum AMH concentration group showed the highest FF AMH and androstenedione concentrations and lowest oestradiol-testosterone and oestradiol-androstenedione ratios. High FF AMH concentration was associated with a higher clinical pregnancy rate and high FF oestradiol concentration with a slightly better embryo quality. CONCLUSIONS Differences in the endocrine milieu in women with high serum AMH concentration seem to be caused by increased follicular LH concentration. In women with high serum AMH concentration, FF androstenedione is increased and ratios of oestradiol-testosterone and oestradiol-androstenedione are decreased, suggesting a disturbed endocrine milieu caused by reduced metabolization of FF androgens into oestrogens. In natural cycles, FF AMH concentrations are positively associated with higher clinical pregnancy rates and oestradiol concentrations with a higher embryo score.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael von Wolff
- University Women's Hospital, Division of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Vera Ruth Mitter
- University Women's Hospital, Division of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Nadia Jamir
- Bürgerspital Solothurn, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Solothurn 4500, Switzerland
| | - Petra Stute
- University Women's Hospital, Division of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Markus Eisenhut
- University Women's Hospital, Division of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Nick A Bersinger
- University Women's Hospital, Division of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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16
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Cornille AS, Sapet C, Reignier A, Leperlier F, Barrière P, Caillet P, Fréour T, Lefebvre T. Is low anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) level a risk factor of miscarriage in women <37 years old undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF)? HUM FERTIL 2021; 25:600-606. [DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2021.1873431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Sophie Cornille
- Service de Médecine et Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpital Mère et Enfant, CHU de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Clémence Sapet
- Service de Médecine et Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpital Mère et Enfant, CHU de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Arnaud Reignier
- Service de Médecine et Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpital Mère et Enfant, CHU de Nantes, Nantes, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Nantes, France
- Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie (ou CRTI), Inserm, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Florence Leperlier
- Service de Médecine et Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpital Mère et Enfant, CHU de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Paul Barrière
- Service de Médecine et Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpital Mère et Enfant, CHU de Nantes, Nantes, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Nantes, France
| | - Pascal Caillet
- Service de Santé Publique, CHU de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Thomas Fréour
- Service de Médecine et Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpital Mère et Enfant, CHU de Nantes, Nantes, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Nantes, France
- Centre de Recherche en Transplantation et Immunologie (ou CRTI), Inserm, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Tiphaine Lefebvre
- Service de Médecine et Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpital Mère et Enfant, CHU de Nantes, Nantes, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Nantes, France
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17
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Oocyte Selection for In Vitro Embryo Production in Bovine Species: Noninvasive Approaches for New Challenges of Oocyte Competence. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10122196. [PMID: 33255250 PMCID: PMC7760727 DOI: 10.3390/ani10122196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The efficiency of producing embryos using in vitro technologies in cattle species remains lower when compared to mice, indicating that the proportion of female gametes that fail to develop after in vitro manipulation is considerably large. Considering that the intrinsic quality of the oocyte is one of the main factors affecting embryo production, the precise identification of noninvasive markers that predict oocyte competence is of major interest. The aim of this review was to explore the current literature on different noninvasive markers associated with oocyte quality in the bovine model. Apart from some controversial findings, the presence of cycle-related structures in ovaries, a follicle size between 6 and 10 mm, a large slightly expanded investment without dark areas, large oocyte diameter (>120 microns), dark cytoplasm, and the presence of a round and smooth first polar body have been associated with better embryonic development. In addition, the combination of oocyte and zygote selection, spindle imaging, and the anti-Stokes Raman scattering microscopy together with studies decoding molecular cues in oocyte maturation have the potential to further optimize the identification of oocytes with better developmental competence for in vitro technologies in livestock species. Abstract The efficiency of producing embryos using in vitro technologies in livestock species rarely exceeds the 30–40% threshold, indicating that the proportion of oocytes that fail to develop after in vitro fertilization and culture is considerably large. Considering that the intrinsic quality of the oocyte is one of the main factors affecting blastocyst yield, the precise identification of noninvasive cellular or molecular markers that predict oocyte competence is of major interest to research and practical applications. The aim of this review was to explore the current literature on different noninvasive markers associated with oocyte quality in the bovine model. Apart from some controversial findings, the presence of cycle-related structures in ovaries, a follicle size between 6 and 10 mm, large number of surrounding cumulus cells, slightly expanded investment without dark areas, large oocyte diameter (>120 microns), dark cytoplasm, and the presence of a round and smooth first polar body have been associated with better competence. In addition, the combination of oocyte and zygote selection via brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) test, spindle imaging, and the anti-Stokes Raman scattering microscopy together with studies decoding molecular cues in oocyte maturation have the potential to further optimize the identification of oocytes with better developmental competence for in-vitro-derived technologies in livestock species.
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18
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Bai L, Chang HM, Zhang L, Zhu YM, Leung PCK. BMP2 increases the production of BDNF through the upregulation of proBDNF and furin expression in human granulosa-lutein cells. FASEB J 2020; 34:16129-16143. [PMID: 33047388 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202000940r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Locally produced in human granulosa cells of the developing follicle, bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) plays a crucial role in the regulation of ovarian folliculogenesis and luteal formation. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is an intraovarian neurotrophic factor that has been shown to promote oocyte maturation and subsequent fertilization competency. At present, little is known regarding the intracellular regulation, assembly and secretion of endogenous BDNF in human granulosa cells. The aim of this study was to explore the effect of BMP2 on the expression and production of BDNF in human granulosa cells and the molecular mechanisms underlying this effect. An immortalized human granulosa cell line (SVOG) and primary human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells were utilized as in vitro study models. Our results showed that BMP2 significantly increased the mRNA and secreted levels of BDNF. Additionally, BMP2 upregulated the expression of furin at the transcriptional and translational levels. Knockdown of endogenous furin partially attenuated the BMP2-induced increase in BDNF production, indicating that furin is involved in the maturation process of BDNF. Using pharmacological (kinase receptor inhibitors) and siRNA-mediated inhibition approaches, we demonstrated that BMP2-induced upregulation of BDNF and furin expression is most likely mediated by the activin receptor-like kinase (ALK)2/ALK3-SMAD4 signaling pathway. Notably, analysis using clinical samples revealed that there was a positive correlation between follicular fluid concentrations of BMP2 and those of BDNF. These results indicate that BMP2 increases the production of mature BDNF by upregulating the precursor BDNF and promoting the proteolytic processing of mature BDNF. Finally, we also investigated the effects of BMP2 on ovarian steroidogenesis and the results showed that BMP2 treatment significantly increased the accumulated level of estradiol (by upregulating the expression of FSH receptor and cytochrome P450 aromatase), whereas it decreased the accumulated level of progesterone (by downregulating the expression of LH receptors and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein) in primary hGL cells. Our findings provide a novel paracrine mechanism underlying the regulation of an intraovarian growth factor in human granulosa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Bai
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Liang Zhang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Zhejiang Academy of Agriculture Science, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Min Zhu
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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19
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Ciepiela P, Dulęba AJ, Kario A, Chełstowski K, Branecka-Woźniak D, Kurzawa R. Oocyte matched follicular fluid anti-Müllerian hormone is an excellent predictor of live birth after fresh single embryo transfer. Hum Reprod 2020; 34:2244-2253. [PMID: 31725884 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 06/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the relationship between the anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), gonadotropin and androgen concentrations within a single follicle and live birth after ICSI and a transfer of an embryo developed from the matched oocyte? SUMMARY ANSWER Among the analysed markers on the day of oocyte retrieval, AMH concentration in follicular fluid (FF) is a predictor of live birth after single embryo transfer (SET). WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY High serum concentrations of AMH and low FSH concentrations have been associated with a high chance of pregnancy after ART. Whether there are differences in the hormonal milieu for individual follicles and whether this impacts the laboratory and clinical outcomes for the individual oocyte developing within that follicle are unknown. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This prospective cohort study included 322 individual FF samples from 199 infertile women scheduled for ICSI/SET over an 18-month period. Of these women, 76 provided a single FF sample, while 123 women contributed two FF samples taken from two different follicles. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The first follicle aspirated in each ovary on the day of oocyte retrieval had the FF aspirated; the individual cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) was tracked, and the associated FF was stored at -80°C. FF AMH, FSH, LH, testosterone (T) and androstenedione (A2) levels were measured by mass spectrometry (androgens) and immunoassays. The laboratory and clinical outcomes for each individual oocyte were related to their unique follicle hormone concentrations. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Of the 322 oocytes with paired FF samples, 70 (21.7%) oocytes did not fertilise. From the remaining 252 2PN embryos, 88 (34.9%) were transferred as single embryos on Day 3; of the remaining 164, 78 developed into blastocysts, and 18 single blastocyst transfers were performed. Thus, a total of 106 transferred embryos had matching FF samples. An analysis of these individual FF concentrations revealed that AMH concentrations were higher in follicles in which the oocyte developed into a top quality (TQ) blastocyst (6.33 ± 5.52 ng/ml) and whose transfer led to live birth (7.49 ± 5.03 ng/ml) than those in which there was a failure of fertilisation (3.34 ± 2.21 ng/ml). In contrast, follicular FSH concentrations were the lower for oocytes that resulted in a TQ blastocyst (5.36 ± 2.20 mIU/ml) and live birth (5.60 ± 1.41 mIU/ml) than for oocytes that failed to fertilise (9.06 ± 3.36 mIU/ml). FF AMH was the only studied marker that increased the chance of live birth (odds ratio: 1.93 [95% CI: 1.40-2.67], P < 0.001). The receiver operating characteristic analysis showed that FF AMH levels predicted live birth with a very high sensitivity (91.2%), specificity (91.7%) and an excellent AUC value of 0.954, whereas serum AMH level only had a fair (AUC = 0.711) significance as a predictor for live birth after ICSI/SET. The predictive capabilities of the interfollicular markers were not limited to the TQ embryos or blastocysts; they applied to all SET cycles. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Whether an altered intrafollicular hormonal environment reflects the developmental capacity of the oocyte or defines cannot be determined from this cross-sectional analysis. Inclusion of 21 subjects with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may have biased the findings due to a unique intrafollicular milieu associated with PCOS. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our results suggest that highly competent human oocytes have an FF composition of AMH, FSH, T and A2 that is close to that in a natural cycle. Also, the relationships between intrafollicular AMH, gonadotropin and androgen levels in the same follicle support the hypothesis that FF AMH concentration may reflect granulosa cell proliferation during gonadotropin-stimulated follicle growth. Finally, the serum AMH concentration is markedly lower than the FF AMH concentration, with a moderate correlation between serum and FF AMH, implying ovarian follicle autonomy with regards to its secretory products. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The National Science Centre of Poland supported this work (grant number: N N407 217 040). The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest regarding the publication of this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Ciepiela
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Pomeranian Medical University, 48 Żołnierska Street, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland.,The Fertility Partnership, VitroLive, Aleja Wojska Polskiego 103, 70-483 Szczecin, Poland
| | - A J Dulęba
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of California, San Diego, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr., San Diego, CA 92161, USA
| | - A Kario
- The Fertility Partnership, VitroLive, Aleja Wojska Polskiego 103, 70-483 Szczecin, Poland
| | - K Chełstowski
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostics and Molecular Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University, Aleja Powstańców Wielkopolskich 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - D Branecka-Woźniak
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Pomeranian Medical University, 48 Żołnierska Street, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland
| | - R Kurzawa
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Health, Pomeranian Medical University, 48 Żołnierska Street, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland.,The Fertility Partnership, VitroLive, Aleja Wojska Polskiego 103, 70-483 Szczecin, Poland
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Korkidakis A, Cho KK, Albert A, Au J, Mellon J, Dunne CM. Anti-Müllerian hormone and embryo quality as determined by time-lapse imaging. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 72:132-137. [PMID: 32315130 DOI: 10.23736/s0026-4784.20.04546-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is conflicting evidence as to whether serum anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) is a biomarker of oocyte quality in addition to its known role in assessing ovarian reserve. This study aims to examine the relationship between AMH and embryo potential as assessed by time-lapse imaging (TLI). METHODS A total of 106 embryos from 67 patients were included in the study. All subjects were women with recorded pre-treatment AMH levels who underwent in vitro fertilization using a TLI embryo incubator. Exclusion criteria included cases of donor oocytes, rescue-ICSI, and >2 embryos transferred. Individual time measures, presence of multinucleation (MN), and composite TLI score were analyzed in relation to patient AMH. Linear regression was used to model AMH among embryo TLI parameters while controlling for age as a continuous covariate. RESULTS There was no statistically significant difference in the mean AMH levels between patients in the normal and abnormal time frames for CC2, S2, and T5. Similarly, there was no significant difference in AMH levels based on composite TLI score or presence/absence of multinucleation. The lack of association between AMH levels and embryo TLI variables persisted after controlling for age (Grade P=0.19, CC2 P=0.47, S2 P=0.52, t5 P=0.34, MN P=0.92). CONCLUSIONS Serum AMH is not predictive of embryo quality as assessed by TLI standardized time intervals, composite score, and presence of MN. From a clinical perspective, these findings suggest that diminished ovarian reserve alone does not imply poorer quality of individual embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Korkidakis
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kristy K Cho
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Arianne Albert
- Women's Health Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jason Au
- Pacific Center for Reproductive Medicine, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Jill Mellon
- Pacific Center for Reproductive Medicine, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Caitlin M Dunne
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada - .,Pacific Center for Reproductive Medicine, Burnaby, BC, Canada
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Wu W, Wang X, Li Y, Zhang Y. Analysis of the women with the AMH concentrations below the limit of reference range but with the ideal number of retrieved oocytes. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2020; 301:1089-1094. [PMID: 32179967 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-020-05491-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Serum anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) shows a strong positive correlation to the number of oocytes retrieved but the patients undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) with lower AMH concentrations also could retrieve an ideal number of oocytes sometimes. The aim of the current study was to assess the performance of this population. METHODS This retrospective study included a total of 44 in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment cycles as test group, in which their AMH levels were below the limit of reference range but more than 7 eggs were retrieved, and 103 control cases enrolled from May 2016 to December 2018 after matched with the same range of age from 24 to 38 years old and the same number range of retrieved oocytes from 7 to 18 and chosen randomly according to clinical ovarian stimulation protocols by the ratio of 3:7. Several parameters, which include age, basal endocrine status, number of oocytes, the maturation rate of eggs, 2PN fertilization rate, 3PN rate, total fertilization rate, cleavage rate, 8-cell embryo rate of D3 and the utilization rate of embryo, were compared and evaluated between two groups by Wilcoxon rank-sum test and t test for two independent samples. RESULTS Although the same age range from 24 to 38 years and the same retrieval eggs from 7 to 18, compared with the control group, the test group showed less number of oocytes collected (9.455 vs 10.767, p = 0.016), younger ages (28.36 vs 32.59, p = 0.000), and higher FSH of basal endocrine status (9.783 vs 7.338, p = 0.021). Between the two groups, there were no significant differences in parameters such as the mature eggs (7.05 vs 7.92, p = 0.079), the mature oocyte rate (74.189% vs 73.916%, p = 0.924), the number of 2PNs (5.36 vs 5.91, p = 0.236), 2PN rate (73.678% vs 75.125%, p = 0.769), the number of 3PNs (0.39 vs 0.50, p = 0.773), 3PN rate (5.104% vs 5.592%, p = 0.697), number of total fertilizations (6.77 vs 7.35, p = 0.241), total fertilization rate (96.461% vs 93.166%, p = 0.332), cleavage rate (82.003% vs 81.382%, p = 0.673), the number of 8-cells on D3 (1.59 vs 1.91, p = 0.227), the rate of 8-cell on D3 (36.259% vs 41.084%, p = 0.551) and the utilization rate of embryo (62.853% vs 61.824%, p = 0.806). CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that there are no significant differences in the maturation of oocytes and the embryo quality for the women with low AMH level and ideal retrieval eggs but they should undergo IVF treatment and achieve successful pregnancy as soon as possible due to the higher basal FSH, the relatively fewer number of retrieval eggs and the possibility of coming diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) or poor respond (PR) despite their younger ages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbin Wu
- Reproductive Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China.
| | - Xingling Wang
- Reproductive Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Yushan Li
- Reproductive Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Yuchao Zhang
- Reproductive Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
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22
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Dević Pavlić S, Tramišak Milaković T, Panić Horvat L, Čavlović K, Vlašić H, Manestar M, Smiljan Severinski N, Radojčić Badovinac A. Genes for anti-Müllerian hormone and androgen receptor are underexpressed in human cumulus cells surrounding morphologically highly graded oocytes. SAGE Open Med 2019; 7:2050312119865137. [PMID: 31360520 PMCID: PMC6637837 DOI: 10.1177/2050312119865137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of genes crucial for the quality of the oocyte and whether expression levels of these genes in cumulus cells can be biological markers for the quality of the oocyte, zygote or embryo, or even for achievement of pregnancy after the assisted reproductive technology procedure. We examined the expression profile of the anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) gene and its respective receptors: anti-Müllerian hormone receptor type 2 (AMHR2), follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) and androgen receptor (AR) in cumulus cells (CCs) surrounding the oocyte, as well as AMH concentrations in follicular fluid of the associated follicle. The obtained gene expression levels were correlated with the morphological quality of the associated oocyte, zygote and embryo as well as with assisted reproductive technology outcome following the intracytoplasmic sperm injection procedure. Methods: This study involved 129 cumulus cells and 35 follicular fluid samples, taken from 58 patients undergoing the intracytoplasmic sperm injection procedure. Oocytes, zygotes and embryos were assessed for morphological quality. The relative gene expression of AMH, AMHR2, FSHR and AR was calculated using the delta–delta Ct method. Anti-Müllerian hormone concentrations in follicular fluids were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: The results yielded suggest a relationship between AMH, AR and oocyte morphology: AMH and AR gene expression levels in CCs surrounding morphologically optimal oocytes were significantly lower than in CCs surrounding oocytes with suboptimal morphology (p = 0.011 and p = 0.008, respectively). Statistically significant positive correlation was found between mRNA expression levels of AMH and FSHR (p < 0.001), AMH and AR (p = 0.001), AMHR2 and FSHR (p < 0.001), AMHR2 and AR (p < 0.001), as well as between FSHR and AR (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Assessed results point to AMH and AR relation with oocyte maturity, but not with its fertilization potential, or with embryo quality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Linda Panić Horvat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Clinical Hospital Centre Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Kristina Čavlović
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Clinical Hospital Centre Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Hrvoje Vlašić
- Šparac Gynecology and Obstetrics Polyclinic, Split, Croatia
| | - Miljenko Manestar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Clinical Hospital Centre Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | | | - Anđelka Radojčić Badovinac
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Clinical Hospital Centre Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
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23
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O'Brien Y, Wingfield M, O'Shea LC. Anti-Müllerian hormone and progesterone levels in human follicular fluid are predictors of embryonic development. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2019; 17:47. [PMID: 31217014 PMCID: PMC6585091 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-019-0492-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human follicular fluid is an intricate biological fluid contributing to the developing oocyte microenvironment. Accumulating evidence suggests that sex hormones present in follicular fluid (FF) may play an important role in regulating oocyte developmental potential. The aim of this study was to determine if anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and progesterone (P4) levels in FF are correlated with oocyte quality as defined by subsequent embryonic development. METHODS This was a prospective cohort study of 88 women undergoing IVF/ICSI at a university associated fertility clinic. Follicular fluid was collected from the first follicle aspirated at the time of oocyte retrieval. The corresponding oocyte was individually cultured in order to track its developmental outcome. FF-AMH and P4 concentrations from follicles where the oocyte fertilised normally and developed into a blastocyst on day 5 (Group 1: BLAST, n = 23) were compared with FF from follicles where the oocyte fertilised normally but failed to reach blastocyst stage by day 5 (Group 2: FERT, n = 19). No significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of maternal age, body mass index, previous live births, previous pregnancy loss, number of antral follicles, number of oocytes recovered, IVF:ICSI ratio or percentage of recovered oocytes that fertilised. RESULTS FF-AMH and P4 levels were significantly increased in Group 1: BLAST compared to Group 2: FERT (P = 0.007 and P = 0.013 respectively). Twenty-one FF samples had an AMH level > 15 pmol/L, of which 17 related to oocytes that progressed to blastocyst stage, providing a positive prediction value (PPV) of 76.96%. Eleven FF samples had a P4 level > 60 mg/ml, of which 10 progressed to blastocyst stage, providing a PPV of 90.99%. Six samples had an AMH level > 15 pmol/L and a P4 level > 60 mg/ml, of which 100% progressed to blastocyst stage, providing a PPV of 96.83%. CONCLUSIONS FF-AMH and P4 levels from individual follicles can accurately predetermine subsequent embryonic development. Combining follicular fluid analysis with routine morphological assessment, could allow for a more accurate and sensitive method of determining embryonic developmental competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne O'Brien
- Merrion Fertility Clinic, 60 Mount Street Lower, Dublin 2, Ireland
- National Maternity Hospital, Holles St, Grand Canal Dock, Dublin 2, Ireland
- UCD School of Medicine and Medical Science, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Mary Wingfield
- Merrion Fertility Clinic, 60 Mount Street Lower, Dublin 2, Ireland
- National Maternity Hospital, Holles St, Grand Canal Dock, Dublin 2, Ireland
- UCD School of Medicine and Medical Science, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Lynne C O'Shea
- UCD School of Medicine and Medical Science, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
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24
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Low estradiol responses in oocyte donors undergoing gonadotropin stimulation do not influence clinical outcomes. J Assist Reprod Genet 2018; 35:1675-1682. [PMID: 29704227 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-018-1192-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the effect of low and very low estradiol responses in oocyte donors receiving gonadotropins on clinical outcomes of donor in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles and to identify possible mechanisms responsible for low estradiol response. METHODS This is a retrospective cohort study of oocyte donors undergoing antagonist IVF cycles with progression to oocyte retrieval between January 2010 and December 2016 at a single urban academic fertility center. Oocyte yield, fertilization rate, blastocyst rate, percentage of normal embryos on preimplantation genetic screening (PGS), pregnancy outcomes, and follicular fluid steroid profiles were compared between donors with normal estradiol response and those with low estradiol response. RESULTS Three hundred sixty-six antagonist oocyte donor IVF cycles were identified: 42 cycles had a normal estradiol response (NE2), defined as peak serum estradiol (E2) of over 200 pg/mL per retrieved oocyte; 140 cycles had an intermediate estradiol response (iE2), defined as peak serum E2 between 100 and 200 pg/mL per retrieved oocyte; 110 cycles had a low estradiol response (LE2), defined as peak serum E2 between 50 and 100 pg/mL per retrieved oocyte; and 74 cycles had a very low estradiol response (vLE2), defined as peak serum E2 less than 50 pg/mL per retrieved oocyte. LE2 cycles resulted in a greater number of mature oocytes (22.4 vs. 13.6, p < 0.017), and fertilizations versus NE2 donors (18.5 vs. 10.7, p < 0.017), although the number of transferred or cryopreserved blastocysts were similar between groups (8.6, 6.9 vs. 4.8, p = 0.095, p = 1). The percentage of chromosomally normal embryos after PGS was similar between LE2, vLE2, and NE2 cycles (66.4, 71.8 vs. 63.1%, p = 0.99, p = 1). Pregnancy outcomes were similar between LE2, vLE2, and NE2 cycles. Serum AMH obtained on the day of peak E2 was similar to baseline serum AMH and did not differ between LE2 versus NE2 cycles. Follicular fluid E2 levels paralleled serum E2 levels and were lower in LE2 cycles versus NE2 cycles. CONCLUSION The prevalence of very low E2 responses in donors appears to be high (20.2%). In contrast to autologous IVF cycles, LE2 does not portend poor outcomes in oocyte donors.
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25
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Stracquadanio M, Ciotta L, Palumbo MA. Relationship between serum anti-Mullerian hormone and intrafollicular AMH levels in PCOS women. Gynecol Endocrinol 2018; 34:223-228. [PMID: 28944702 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2017.1381838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a complex disease characterized by various endocrine disorders that are the potential cause of anovulation and hyperandrogenism. Anti-Müllerian hormone expression is suspected to be overexpressed in PCOS granulosa cells. AMH acts as a regulator of folliculogenesis: it is produced by the granulosa cells of follicles from the stage of the primary follicle to the initial formation of the antrum. Serum and intrafollicular AMH levels are elevated in patients with PCOS due to increased number of small follicles and an increased secretion within each of these small follicles. This excess of AMH is strongly suspected to play a role in the characteristic follicular arrest of PCOS, through a negative action on aromatase expression and on FSH action. Value above 5 ng/ml or 35 pmol/l might be considered as a diagnostic criterion for PCOS. The aim of our study is to demonstrate the presence of higher AMH serum levels and higher AMH intrafollicular fluid level of PCOS patients, undergone to IVF cycles, compared to normovulatory patients. The results clearly indicate that blood and intrafollicular AMH levels are significantly higher in PCOS women comparing to the normovulatory population. Serum AMH level appears to be a good predictive marker for the risk ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: thus, its evaluation should be recommended before starting a controlled ovarian stimulation for IVF.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Stracquadanio
- a Institute of Obstetric and Gynecological Pathology , Santo Bambino Hospital, University of Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - L Ciotta
- a Institute of Obstetric and Gynecological Pathology , Santo Bambino Hospital, University of Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - M A Palumbo
- a Institute of Obstetric and Gynecological Pathology , Santo Bambino Hospital, University of Catania , Catania , Italy
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26
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Garcia-Velasco JA, Motta L, Rodriguez S, Toribio M, Martinez-Salazar J, Pacheco A. Decreased Concentrations of AMH in Follicular Fluid of Women with Endometriosis: A Hypothetical New Marker of Oocyte Quality. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/228402650900100108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) has been recently introduced as a new marker of ovarian reserve with a high sensitivity and with the added value of being independent of cycle day. Some authors have claimed that it may also provide information regarding oocyte quality. As endometriosis is a disease that mainly affects the ovary and thus, egg quality, we decided to evaluate AMH follicular fluid concentrations in three clinical groups: a) women with endometriosis and a visible endometrioma at ultrasound in one of the ovaries, b) same women with endometrioma-free contralateral ovary, and c) women without endometriosis. Material and Methods From August to December 2007, 28 women undergoing an IVF/ICSI cycle in whom an endometrioma > 2cm was clearly visible at ultrasound in one of the ovaries and not in the other, and 28 fertile egg donors as controls entered the study. Follicular fluid from the largest follicle of each ovary (with endometrioma and without endometrioma) was individually collected prior to the rest of the follicular aspiration at the time of egg retrieval, and similarly in the control group. After cumulus identification and short centrifugation to remove cells, fluids were stored at -80°C until assayed. AMH was evaluated by a commercially available ELISA. Kolmorov-Smirnov test was performed to test for normality, as well as a one-way ANOVA with Tukey test to evaluate differences among groups. Significance was set at 0.05. Results AMH follicular fluid concentrations were significantly lower in women with endometriosis versus control (4.5 ± 2.6 vs 6.2 ± 3.0 ng/mL, p=0.02). Interestingly, when the three groups were evaluated individually, the concentration of AMH in follicular fluid obtained from the ovaries where a large endometrioma was present was significantly lower than in the other two groups – a) 4.1 ± 2.7 ng/mL in the ovaries with the endometrioma, b) 4.9 ± 2.6 ng/mL in the contralateral ovary in the same patients, and c) 6.2 ± 3.0 ng/mL in control patients; (p=0.039). Conclusions AMH concentration in follicular fluid is diminished in women with endometriosis. The presence of the endometrioma itself may reduce even further AMH concentration in the surrounding follicles. These results may reflect oocyte quality and could be useful when counselling patients regarding their reproductive outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laura Motta
- IVI-Madrid Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid - Spain
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27
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Shahrokhi SZ, Kazerouni F, Ghaffari F. Anti-Müllerian Hormone: genetic and environmental effects. Clin Chim Acta 2018; 476:123-129. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2017.11.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2017] [Revised: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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von Wolff M, Stute P, Eisenhut M, Marti U, Bitterlich N, Bersinger NA. Serum and follicular fluid testosterone concentrations do not correlate, questioning the impact of androgen supplementation on the follicular endocrine milieu. Reprod Biomed Online 2017; 35:616-623. [PMID: 28821386 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2017.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2016] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Basic research into a possible link between serum and follicular fluid androgen concentrations to detemine whether androgen supplementation in low responders affects follicular endocrine milieu is still lacking. Ninety-seven women (aged 28-43 years) undergoing one natural IVF cycle without any hormone stimulation were analysed. Serum and follicular fluid were collected at the time of follicle aspiration, and the concentrations of LH, total testosterone, oestradiol, dehydroepiandrosterone and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) were determined. Serum LH (P = 0.003) and AMH (P = 0.026) concentrations, and follicular fluid AMH (P = 0.015) decreased with increasing age. Within follicular fluid, total testosterone was correlated with oestradiol (P < 0.001) and AMH (P = 0.010); LH correlated with AMH (P = 0.005). Correlation analysis of serum and follicular fluid hormone concentrations revealed that LH, oestradiol and AMH correlated (P < 0.001), whereas testosterone did not. Testosterone serum concentrations did not correlate with other follicular fluid hormones, such as dehydroepiandrosterone, oestradiol and AMH, whereas serum LH correlated with follicular flulid AMH (P < 0.008). Follicular fluid hormone concentrations seem to be independent from serum testosterone. Therefore, it is questionable whether an increase in serum testosterone concentration by androgen supplementation could improve the follicular endocrine milieu.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael von Wolff
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women's Hospital, Inselspital, University of Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Petra Stute
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women's Hospital, Inselspital, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Markus Eisenhut
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women's Hospital, Inselspital, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich Marti
- MCL, Medical Laboratories, Freiburgstrasse 634, 3172 Niederwangen, Switzerland
| | | | - Nick A Bersinger
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women's Hospital, Inselspital, University of Bern, Switzerland
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Revelli A, Canosa S, Bergandi L, Skorokhod OA, Biasoni V, Carosso A, Bertagna A, Maule M, Aldieri E, D’Eufemia MD, Evangelista F, Colacurci N, Benedetto C. Oocyte polarized light microscopy, assay of specific follicular fluid metabolites, and gene expression in cumulus cells as different approaches to predict fertilization efficiency after ICSI. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2017; 15:47. [PMID: 28645283 PMCID: PMC5481970 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-017-0265-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The complex relationship between oocyte morphology, specific follicular fluid metabolites, gene expression in cumulus granulosa cells, and oocyte competence toward fertilization and embryo development still needs further clarification. METHODS Forty-six oocytes retrieved from the largest pre-ovulatory follicle of patients undergoing intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) were considered assessing: (a) oocyte morphological characteristics at polarized light microscopy (PLM), (b) specific follicular fluid (FF) metabolites previously suggested to influence oocyte competence (AMH, markers of redox status and of cytotoxicity), (c) transcription of AMH and AMH type II receptor genes in cumulus cells. Data were analyzed using mono-parametric tests and multivariable logistic analysis in order to correlate morphological and biochemical data with fertilization. RESULTS Comparing normally fertilized oocytes (n = 29, F group) with unfertilized (n = 17, nF group) we observed that: (a) the meiotic spindle area and major axis were significantly higher in nF group and in fertilized oocytes undergoing an early embryo development arrest; (b) AMH level in FF was comparable in F and nF groups; (c) the FF of nF group contained significantly higher levels of cytotoxicity (lactate dehydrogenase) and oxidative stress (Cu,Zn-superoxide dismutase, catalase, 4-hydroxynonenal-protein conjugates) markers; (d) cumulus cells of nF group showed significantly higher AMH receptor type II gene expression. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, these observations suggest that an excessive cytotoxicity level can alter AMH signal transduction within cumulus cells, in turn leading to partial inhibition of aromatase activity, altered cytoplasmic maturation and increased oxidative stress, factors able to impair oocyte fertilization competence and embryo growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Revelli
- 0000 0001 2336 6580grid.7605.4Chair of Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Stefano Canosa
- 0000 0001 2336 6580grid.7605.4Chair of Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Loredana Bergandi
- 0000 0001 2336 6580grid.7605.4Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Oleksii A. Skorokhod
- 0000 0001 2336 6580grid.7605.4Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Valentina Biasoni
- 0000 0001 2336 6580grid.7605.4Chair of Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Andrea Carosso
- 0000 0001 2336 6580grid.7605.4Chair of Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Angela Bertagna
- 0000 0001 2336 6580grid.7605.4Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Milena Maule
- 0000 0001 2336 6580grid.7605.4Department of Medical Sciences, Cancer Epidemiology Unit, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Aldieri
- 0000 0001 2336 6580grid.7605.4Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Maria Diletta D’Eufemia
- 0000 0001 2200 8888grid.9841.4Department of Woman, Child, General and Special Surgery, Second University of Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Evangelista
- 0000 0001 2336 6580grid.7605.4Chair of Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Nicola Colacurci
- 0000 0001 2200 8888grid.9841.4Department of Woman, Child, General and Special Surgery, Second University of Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Benedetto
- 0000 0001 2336 6580grid.7605.4Chair of Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
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Chen Y, Ye B, Yang X, Zheng J, Lin J, Zhao J. Predicting the outcome of different protocols of in vitro fertilization with anti-Muüllerian hormone levels in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. J Int Med Res 2017; 45:1138-1147. [PMID: 28449632 PMCID: PMC5536432 DOI: 10.1177/0300060517704140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This study evaluated associations of basal serum and follicular fluid (FF) anti-Muüllerian hormone (AMH) levels with in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients. Methods This prospective study included 179 consecutive women undergoing IVF, including 59 with PCOS and non-PCOS controls. Thirty PCOS cases had long gona-dotrophin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-a) and 29 had antagonist (GnRH-ant) protocols. Controls underwent conventional GnRH-a. Associations of basal serum and FF AMH levels with IVF outcomes were assessed. Results Median serum and FF AMH levels, antral follicle count (AFC), oestradiol human chorionic gonadotropin injection day (peak E2), and retrieved oocyte numbers were higher in PCOS patients than in controls (all P < 0.01). Oocyte maturation and high-quality embryo rates were lower in PCOS patients than in controls (P < 0.01), but both groups had similar fertilization, implantation, clinical pregnancy, and newborn rates. Peak E2 was higher in GnRH-ant than in GnRH-a protocols (16.5 nmol/L vs. 12.1 nmol/L, P < 0.05). AMH levels were correlated with AFC in PCOS patients (P < 0.01). Peak E2 and FF AMH levels were independent predictors of oocyte number. Peak E2 predicted the fertilization rate. Conclusion Serum basal AMH levels are predictive of oocyte quantity, but not oocyte quality or IVF outcomes. Serum AMH, FF AMH, and outcomes are similar among protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya Chen
- Reproductive Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Ya Chen, Reproductive Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325000, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Bilv Ye
- Reproductive Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaojing Yang
- Gynaecology and Obstetrics Department, The First People’s Hospital of Hangzhou, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiujia Zheng
- Reproductive Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jinju Lin
- Reproductive Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Junzhao Zhao
- Reproductive Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
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31
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Zahmel J, Mundt H, Jewgenow K, Braun BC. Analysis of gene expression in granulosa cells post-maturation to evaluate oocyte culture systems in the domestic cat. Reprod Domest Anim 2017; 52 Suppl 2:65-70. [PMID: 28120353 DOI: 10.1111/rda.12927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Maturation of oocytes is a prerequisite for successful embryo development. The fertilization competence of in vivo derived oocytes is significantly higher than that of oocytes matured in vitro. Commonly evaluated morphological criteria for oocyte maturation do not reflect the complexity and quality of maturation processes. Oocytes and granulosa cells are communicating closely in a bidirectional way during follicular growth and maturation. Assessing the mRNA expression of specific genes in granulosa cells could be a non-invasive way to evaluate the conditions of in vitro oocyte maturation. The objective of this study was to elucidate the influence of two different FSH additives on the in vitro maturation rate and gene expression of cumulus-oocytes complexes in domestic cat. Feline oocytes were matured in a medium, supplemented with LH and 0.02 IU/ml porcine FSH versus 0.02 IU or 1.06 IU/ml human FSH. Granulosa cells were separated from oocytes directly after 24 hr of maturation or after additional 12 hr of in vitro fertilization. Gene expression levels were analysed by quantitative PCR for aromatase, antimullerian hormone, follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR), luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor (LHCGR) and prostaglandin E synthase. Neither oocyte maturation rate nor gene expression levels differed after 24 or 36 hr in all three groups. However, variations were discovered in correlations of expression levels, for instance for FSHR and LHCG, indicating differences in the fine-tuning of in vitro maturation processes under varying FSH supplementations. We suppose that correlation between gene expressions of selected genes suggests a superior maturation quality of feline oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Zahmel
- Leibniz-Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - H Mundt
- Leibniz-Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - K Jewgenow
- Leibniz-Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - B C Braun
- Leibniz-Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
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32
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Wu G, Bersinger NA, Mueller MD, von Wolff M. Intrafollicular inflammatory cytokines but not steroid hormone concentrations are increased in naturally matured follicles of women with proven endometriosis. J Assist Reprod Genet 2017; 34:357-364. [PMID: 28074436 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0865-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to assess whether the intrafollicular cytokine profile in naturally developed follicles is different in women with endometriosis, possibly explaining the lower reproductive outcome in endometriosis patients. METHODS A matched case-control study was conducted at a university-based infertility and endometriosis centre. The study population included 17 patients with laparoscopically and histologically confirmed endometriosis (rAFS stages II-IV), each undergoing one natural cycle IVF (NC-IVF) treatment cycle between 2013 and 2015, and 17 age-matched NC-IVF women without diagnosed endometriosis (control group). Follicular fluid and serum was collected at the time of follicle aspiration. The concentrations of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-15, IL-18, TNF-α) and hormones (testosterone, estradiol, AMH) were determined in follicular fluid and serum by single or multiplexed immunoassay and compared between both groups. RESULTS In the follicular fluid, IL-1β and IL-6 showed significantly (P < 0.001 and 0.01, respectively) higher median concentrations in the endometriosis group than in the control group and a tendency towards endometriosis severity (rAFS stage) dependence. The levels of the interleukins detectable in follicular fluid were significantly higher than those in the serum (P < 0.01). Follicular estradiol concentration was lower in severe endometriosis patients than in the control group (P = 0.036). Follicular fluid IL-1β and IL-6 levels were not correlated with estradiol in the same compartment in neither patient group. CONCLUSIONS In women with moderate and severe endometrioses, some intrafollicular inflammatory cytokines are upregulated and not correlated with intrafollicular hormone concentrations. This might be due to the inflammatory microenvironment in endometriosis women, affecting follicular function and thereby possibly contributing to the reproductive dysfunction in endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gengxiang Wu
- Division of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women's hospital, Effingerstrasse 102, 3010, Bern, Switzerland.,Reproductive Medical Centre, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - N A Bersinger
- Division of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women's hospital, Effingerstrasse 102, 3010, Bern, Switzerland
| | - M D Mueller
- Division of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women's hospital, Effingerstrasse 102, 3010, Bern, Switzerland
| | - M von Wolff
- Division of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women's hospital, Effingerstrasse 102, 3010, Bern, Switzerland.
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Kotanidis L, Nikolettos K, Petousis S, Asimakopoulos B, Chatzimitrou E, Kolios G, Nikolettos N. The use of serum anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels and antral follicle count (AFC) to predict the number of oocytes collected and availability of embryos for cryopreservation in IVF. J Endocrinol Invest 2016; 39:1459-1464. [PMID: 27465668 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-016-0521-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
AIM To investigate the predictive value of anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and antral follicle count (AFC) on the final number of oocytes retrieved and the availability of embryos for cryopreservation in in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles. PATIENTS AND METHODS In this prospective study, one hundred and twenty women in their first IVF treatment were enrolled. The short stimulation agonist protocol was used for controlled ovarian hyperstimulation in all cases. Serum AMH levels were measured during the menstrual cycle preceding treatment. AFC was measured in cycle day 2, just before starting ovarian stimulation. RESULTS A strong, positive correlation between AMH, AFC and the number of collected oocytes was found. The patients with available and suitable supplementary embryos for cryopreservation had higher levels of AMH and larger numbers of AFC. CONCLUSION AMH and AFC appear to be valuable markers mainly for ovarian reserve and response to IVF treatment. Serum AMH levels and AFC are significantly associated with the number of retrieved oocytes. Also, a positive correlation with the availability of supernumerary embryos suitable for cryopreservation was observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Kotanidis
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology - In Vitro Fertilization, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece.
- , Florou 22A Kordelio, 56334, Thessaloníki, Greece.
| | - K Nikolettos
- Embryokosmogenesis IVF Unit, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - S Petousis
- 3rd Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloníki, Greece
| | - B Asimakopoulos
- Laboratory of Physiology, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | | | - G Kolios
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - N Nikolettos
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology - In Vitro Fertilization, School of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
- Embryokosmogenesis IVF Unit, Alexandroupolis, Greece
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The effect of serum and follicular fluid anti-Mullerian hormone level on the number of oocytes retrieved and rate of fertilization and clinical pregnancy. North Clin Istanb 2016; 3:90-96. [PMID: 28058394 PMCID: PMC5206471 DOI: 10.14744/nci.2016.02418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 08/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between oocyte yield, fertilization, and clinical pregnancy (CP), and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) level in serum and follicular fluid during in vitro fertilization treatment. METHODS Forty-four infertile women who underwent IVF treatment using multiagonist protocol were included in this study. Baseline level of AMH in serum and follicular fluid was measured on third day of menstrual cycle. AMH level in serum and follicular fluid was then measured again on day of oocyte pick-up. Pearson correlation and binary regression tests were used for statistical analysis. For Type 1 error, p=5% was selected as cut-off value for statistical significance. RESULTS Serum AMH level was positively correlated with total number of oocytes retrieved and rate of fertilization and CP (r=0.397, p=0.008; r=0.401, p=0.007; and r=0.382, p=0.011, respectively). There was significantly negative correlation between serum level of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and fertilization rate (r=-0.320; p=0.034), as well as serum FSH level and CP rate (r=-0.308; p=0.042). There were no significant correlations between AMH level in follicular fluid and IVF treatment outcomes. CONCLUSION Serum AMH levels may be more reliable for prediction of total number of oocytes retrieved and rate of fertilization and CP than AMH levels in follicular fluid.
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Park HJ, Lee GH, Gong DS, Yoon TK, Lee WS. The meaning of anti-Müllerian hormone levels in patients at a high risk of poor ovarian response. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2016; 43:139-45. [PMID: 27689035 PMCID: PMC5039305 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2016.43.3.139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2016] [Revised: 04/16/2016] [Accepted: 05/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Measurements of ovarian reserve play an important role in predicting the clinical results of assisted reproductive technology (ART). The ideal markers of ovarian reserve for clinical applications should have high specificity in order to determine genuine poor responders. Basal follicle-stimulating hormone levels, antral follicle count, and serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels have been suggested as ovarian reserve tests that may fulfill this requirement, with serum AMH levels being the most promising parameter. Serum AMH levels have been suggested to be a predictor of clinical pregnancy in ART for older women, who are at a high risk for decreased ovarian response. We reviewed the prognostic significance of ovarian reserve tests for patients undergoing ART treatment, with a particular focus on the significance of serum AMH levels in patients at a high risk of poor ovarian response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Jong Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Gumi Medical Center, Gumi, Korea
| | - Geun Ho Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Gumi Medical Center, Gumi, Korea
| | - Du Sik Gong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Gumi Medical Center, Gumi, Korea
| | - Tae Ki Yoon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Woo Sik Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University, Seoul, Korea
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Wiweko B, Anggraheni U, Mansyur E, Yuningsih T, Harzief AK, Pratama G, Sumapraja K, Natadisastra M, Hestiantoro A. Serum AMH level predicts oocytes quality better than follicular fluid AMH level. ASIAN PACIFIC JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTION 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.apjr.2016.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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Giacomini E, Sanchez AM, Sarais V, Beitawi SA, Candiani M, Viganò P. Characteristics of follicular fluid in ovaries with endometriomas. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2016; 209:34-38. [PMID: 26895700 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2016.01.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Revised: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The study of follicular fluid (FF) content nearby endometriomas may assist in elucidating pathophysiology, possible biomarkers related to this disease and the effect of endometriomas on ovarian physiology. As the question "how endometrioma may intrude the physiology of ovarian tissue?" is still open, we aimed to summarize the molecular evidence supporting the idea that endometriomas can negatively influence the content of the surrounding ovarian follicles. An alteration of the iron metabolism and an increased ROS (reactive oxygen species) generation characterize the intrafollicular environment adjacent to endometriomas. Other potentially negative effects include decreased testosterone and anti-Mullerian hormone FF levels although these have been only partially clarified. Alterations in lipid and proteomic patterns have been also observed in FF samples nearby endometriomas. The possibility that endometriomas per se may influence IVF clinical results as a consequence of the detrimental impact on the local intrafollicular environment is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Giacomini
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
| | - Ana M Sanchez
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
| | - Veronica Sarais
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
| | - Soha Al Beitawi
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy
| | - Massimo Candiani
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University and IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milano, Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy.
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38
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Stojsin-Carter A, Mahboubi K, Costa NN, Gillis DJ, Carter TF, Neal MS, Miranda MS, Ohashi OM, Favetta LA, King WA. Systemic and local anti-Mullerian hormone reflects differences in the reproduction potential of Zebu and European type cattle. Anim Reprod Sci 2016; 167:51-8. [PMID: 26898391 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2016.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2015] [Revised: 01/28/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
This study was conducted to evaluate plasma anti-Mullerian hormone (Pl AMH), follicular fluid AMH (FF AMH) and granulosa cell AMH transcript (GC AMH) levels and their relationships with reproductive parameters in two cattle subspecies, Bos taurus indicus (Zebu), and Bos taurus taurus (European type cattle). Two-dimensional ultrasound examination and serum collection were performed on Zebu, European type and crossbreed cows to determine antral follicle count (AFC), ovary diameter (OD) and Pl AMH concentration. Slaughterhouse ovaries for Zebu and European type cattle were collected to determine FF AMH concentrations, GC AMH RNA levels, AFC, oocyte number, cleavage and blastocyst rate. Additionally GC AMH receptor 2 (AMHR2) RNA level was measured for European type cattle. Relationship between AMH and reproductive parameters was found to be significantly greater in Zebu compared to European cattle. Average Pl AMH mean ± SE for Zebu and European cattle was 0.77 ± 0.09 and 0.33 ± 0.24 ng/ml respectively (p = 0.01), whereas average antral FF AMH mean ± SE for Zebu and European cattle was 4934.3 ± 568.5 and 2977.9 ± 214.1 ng/ml respectively (p < 0.05). This is the first published report of FF and GC AMH in Zebu cattle. Levels of GC AMHR2 RNA in European cattle were correlated to oocyte number (p = 0.01). Crossbred animals were found more similar to their maternal Zebu counterparts with respect to their Pl AMH to AFC and OD relationships. These results demonstrate that AMH reflects differences between reproduction potential of the two cattle subspecies therefore can potentially be used as a reproductive marker. Furthermore these results reinforce the importance of separately considering the genetic backgrounds of animals when collecting or interpreting bovine AMH data for reproductive performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Stojsin-Carter
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Kiana Mahboubi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Nathalia N Costa
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Augusto Corrêa 1, Belém, PA 66075-110, Brazil
| | - Daniel J Gillis
- School of Computer Science, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Timothy F Carter
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Michael S Neal
- ONE Fertility, 3210 Harvester Rd, Burlington, ON L7N 3T1, Canada
| | - Moyses S Miranda
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Augusto Corrêa 1, Belém, PA 66075-110, Brazil
| | - Otavio M Ohashi
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Augusto Corrêa 1, Belém, PA 66075-110, Brazil
| | - Laura A Favetta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - W Allan King
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
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Nagashima JB, Hansen BS, Songsasen N, Travis AJ, Place NJ. Anti-Müllerian Hormone in the Domestic Dog during the Anestrus to Oestrous Transition. Reprod Domest Anim 2015; 51:158-64. [PMID: 26708613 DOI: 10.1111/rda.12660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2015] [Accepted: 11/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The reproductive cycle of the domestic dog features a long period of relative ovarian inactivity or anestrus. The mechanism of anestrous termination/oestrous resumption is not yet fully understood, which presents a challenge to the development of oestrous induction protocols. In this study, we assess the possibility that anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) might play a role in this transition by characterizing its patterns of expression in the circulation during the transition from anestrus to oestrous and in all stages of ovarian follicular growth. Serum samples from five beagles (2.0-4.5 years) were collected three times per week at least 30 days prior to the onset of oestrous and assessed for AMH concentrations. Serum AMH concentration increased significantly during the transition from anestrus to proestrus and then declined back to the anestrous baseline beginning on day -4 before the luteinizing hormone surge, which was determined by changes in serum progesterone concentrations. Cortical sections of ovaries from females undergoing routine ovariohysterectomy (aged 8 months-5 years, n = 4) were evaluated for AMH by immunohistochemistry. Pre-antral and small antral follicles were most strongly immunoreactive for AMH. These data suggest that the increase in the number of antral follicles is associated with the rise in serum AMH as the anestrous period comes to an end. The rise in AMH might be useful in predicting the onset of oestrus and therefore assist with the optimization of oestrous induction protocols and possibly other assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- J B Nagashima
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - B S Hansen
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - N Songsasen
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA, USA
| | - A J Travis
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA.,Atkinson Center for a Sustainable Future, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - N J Place
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
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40
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Why more is less and less is more when it comes to ovarian stimulation. J Assist Reprod Genet 2015; 32:1713-9. [PMID: 26481501 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-015-0599-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2015] [Accepted: 10/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of the present study is to describe the possible mechanisms which may explain the apparent paradox of "less is more." Mild ovarian stimulation for in vitro fertilization (IVF) minimizes ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and multiple gestations without compromising the pregnancy rate (PR). METHODS The pertinent English literature (PubMed) addressing mild stimulation for IVF/assisted reproductive technology (ART) and publications addressing "mild" or "soft" controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) vs conventional COS for IVF, OHSS, natural cycle IVF, and IVF outcome in association with COS was searched. RESULTS Four possible mechanisms can be put forward to explain the apparent paradox of "less is more." (1) In the natural or mild stimulation cycles, the healthiest follicles are selected by the principle of "quality for quantity"; (2) high estradiol (E2) in the late follicular phase significantly correlated with higher rates of small for gestational age (SGA) and low-birth-weight (LBW) neonates; (3) anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), LH, testosterone, and E(2) are significantly higher in natural cycle (NC)-IVF than in stimulated IVF follicles, suggesting an alteration of the follicular metabolism in stimulated cycles; and (4) supraphysiological E(2) may increase the growth hormone-binding protein (GH-BP) bio-neutralizing GH and diminishing the resultant insulin-like growth factor (IGF) levels, necessary for optimal synergism with follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). CONCLUSIONS It is suggested to aim at the retrieval of around eight to ten eggs. Mild stimulation should be the common practice for IVF. In cases where more than ten ova are retrieved or high E(2) levels are reached, either intentionally or unintentionally, "freeze-all policy" should be considered and embryo transfer (ET) done in a subsequent natural cycle.
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Salmassi A, Mettler L, Hedderich J, Jonat W, Deenadayal A, von Otte S, Eckmann-Scholz C, Schmutzler AG. Cut-Off Levels of Anti-Mullerian Hormone for The Prediction of Ovarian Response, In Vitro Fertilization Outcome and Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2015; 9:157-67. [PMID: 26246873 PMCID: PMC4518483 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2015.4236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2014] [Accepted: 12/31/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Background Evaluation of anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) cut-off levels in as-
sisted reproductive technology (ART) as predictive factor for individualization of
stimulation protocols and to avoid ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Materials and Methods In a retrospective study, 177 infertile patients were as-
sessed for AMH in serum and follicular fluid (FF) on the day of follicular puncture
(FP), between 2012 and 2013 in Kiel, Germany. AMH levels and pregnancy rates
were compared between low, moderate and high responders and cut-off levels of
low and high responders. AMH cut-off levels in pathological cases were evaluated
in analysis 1 (OHSS) and in analysis 2 [polycystic ovarian syndrome, (PCOS)] and
compared in analysis 3 to normal endocrinological parameters. Results AMH levels in FF were higher than in serum (P<0.001). AMH levels in serum
and FF increased from low through moderate to high responders (P<0.001). Pregnancy
rates were 14.7, 23.3 and 44.9% (P=0.009), respectively. AMH cut-off level for poor
responders was 0.61 ng/ml in serum with a pregnancy rate of 13.8 and 37.1% for below
and above of this level, respectively. For FF, it was 1.43 ng/ml. AMH levels in analysis
1 and 2 were significantly higher than in analysis 3 (P=0.001). AMH cut-off level for
OHSS was 1.5 ng/ml in serum with OHSS rates of 80.8 and 19.2 % for above and below
of the level, respectively. For FF, it was 2.7 ng/ml. PCOS patients had an AMH cut-off
level of 3.9 ng/ml in serum and 6.8 ng/ml in FF, resulting in a PCOS rate of 100% above
this level. Conclusion AMH levels can help to assess ovarian response potential and guide ovarian
stimulation while avoiding OHSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Salmassi
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Center of Reproductive Medicine, University Hospitals Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Liselotte Mettler
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Center of Reproductive Medicine, University Hospitals Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Jurgen Hedderich
- Institute of Medical Informatics and Statistics, University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Walter Jonat
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Center of Reproductive Medicine, University Hospitals Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Anupama Deenadayal
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Center of Reproductive Medicine, University Hospitals Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Soeren von Otte
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Center of Reproductive Medicine, University Hospitals Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Christel Eckmann-Scholz
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Center of Reproductive Medicine, University Hospitals Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Andreas Gerd Schmutzler
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Center of Reproductive Medicine, University Hospitals Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Germany
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Li Y, Nie M, Liu Y, Zhang W, Yang X. The dynamic changes of anti-Mullerian hormone and inhibin B during controlled ovarian hyperstimulation in decreased ovarian reserve women and the effect on clinical outcome. Gynecol Endocrinol 2015; 31:450-3. [PMID: 25585549 DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2014.998187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the dynamics of anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and inhibin B (INHB) levels during controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) in women with decreased ovarian reserve (DOR), and assess the effect of these dynamic changes on the prediction of clinical outcome in in-vitro fertilization (IVF). METHODS A total of 124 women undergoing IVF cycles were divided into normal ovarian reserve (NOR) and DOR groups. AMH and INHB levels were measured in serum on menstrual cycle day 2 or 3 (D2/3), day 5 of stimulation (D5), hCG day (D-hCG) and follicular fluid (FF) on oocyte retrieval day. RESULTS Serum AMH levels were gradually decreased while INHB levels were gradually increased from D2/3 to D-hCG during the COH in both groups. Serum AMH, INHB levels on D2/3 and FF AMH, INHB levels were highly positively correlated with AFC and oocytes retrieval. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that clinical pregnancy did not directly correlate with serum and FF AMH and INHB levels. CONCLUSION Serum AMH and INHB levels were not directly related to clinical pregnancy, dynamic serum AMH and IHNB levels were positively correlated with COH outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Li
- Department of Human Reproductive Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital , Capital Medical University, Beijing , China
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Kollmann Z, Bersinger NA, McKinnon BD, Schneider S, Mueller MD, von Wolff M. Anti-Müllerian hormone and progesterone levels produced by granulosa cells are higher when derived from natural cycle IVF than from conventional gonadotropin-stimulated IVF. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2015; 13:21. [PMID: 25889012 PMCID: PMC4379743 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-015-0017-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2014] [Accepted: 03/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The study was designed to compare the effect of in vitro FSH stimulation on the hormone production and gene expression profile of granulosa cells (GCs) isolated from single naturally matured follicles obtained from natural cycle in vitro fertilization (NC-IVF) with granulosa cells obtained from conventional gonadotropin-stimulated IVF (c-IVF). METHODS Lutein granulosa cells from the dominant follicle were isolated and cultured in absence or presence of recombinant FSH. The cultures were run for 48 h and six days. Messenger RNA (mRNA) expressions of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and FSH receptor were measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). AMH protein and progesterone concentration (P4) in cultured supernatant were measured by ELISA and RIA. RESULTS Our results showed that the mRNA expression of AMH was significantly higher in GCs from NC- than from c-IVF on day 6 after treatment with FSH (1 IU/mL). The FSH stimulation increased the concentration of AMH in the culture supernatant of GCs from NC-IVF compared with cells from c-IVF. In the culture medium, the AMH level was correlated significantly and positively to progesterone concentration. CONCLUSIONS Differences in the levels of AMH and progesterone released into the medium by cultured GC as well as in AMH gene expression were observed between GCs obtained under natural and stimulated IVF protocols. The results suggest that artificial gonadotropin stimulation may have an effect on the intra-follicular metabolism. A significant positive correlation between AMH and progesterone may suggest progesterone as a factor influencing AMH secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahraa Kollmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inselspital Berne, Berne University Hospital, Effingerstrasse 102, 3010, Berne, Switzerland.
| | - Nick A Bersinger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inselspital Berne, Berne University Hospital, Effingerstrasse 102, 3010, Berne, Switzerland.
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Berne, Murtenstrasse 35, 3010, Berne, Switzerland.
| | - Brett D McKinnon
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Berne, Murtenstrasse 35, 3010, Berne, Switzerland.
| | - Sophie Schneider
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inselspital Berne, Berne University Hospital, Effingerstrasse 102, 3010, Berne, Switzerland.
| | - Michael D Mueller
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inselspital Berne, Berne University Hospital, Effingerstrasse 102, 3010, Berne, Switzerland.
| | - Michael von Wolff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inselspital Berne, Berne University Hospital, Effingerstrasse 102, 3010, Berne, Switzerland.
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Tal R, Tal O, Seifer BJ, Seifer DB. Antimüllerian hormone as predictor of implantation and clinical pregnancy after assisted conception: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Fertil Steril 2014; 103:119-30.e3. [PMID: 25450298 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.09.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2014] [Revised: 09/26/2014] [Accepted: 09/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess whether antimüllerian hormone (AMH) is a predictor of implantation and/or clinical pregnancy in women undergoing assisted reproductive technology. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENT(S) Women undergoing IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection in nondonor cycles. INTERVENTION(S) Measurement of serum AMH level. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Diagnostic odds ratio (OR) and summary receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) for AMH as a predictor of implantation and/or clinical pregnancy. RESULT(S) A total of 525 observational studies were identified, of which 19 were selected (comprising 5,373 women). Studies reporting clinical pregnancy rates in women with unspecified ovarian reserve (n = 11), diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) (n = 4), and polycystic ovary syndrome (n = 4) were included, together with studies reporting implantation rates (n = 4). The OR for AMH as a predictor of implantation in women with unspecified ovarian reserve (n = 1,591) was 1.83 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.49-2.25), whereas the AUC was 0.591 (95% CI 0.563-0.618). The OR for AMH as a predictor of clinical pregnancy in these women (n = 4,324) was 2.10 (95% CI 1.82-2.41), whereas the AUC was 0.634 (95% CI 0.618-0.650). The predictive ability of AMH for pregnancy was greatest in women with DOR (n = 615), with OR and AUC of 3.96 (95% CI 2.57-6.10) and 0.696 (95% CI 0.641-0.751), respectively. In contrast, AMH had no significant predictive ability in women with PCOS (n = 414), with OR and AUC of 1.18 (95% CI 0.53-2.62) and 0.600 (95% CI 0.547-0.653), respectively. CONCLUSION(S) Antimüllerian hormone has weak association with implantation and clinical pregnancy rates in assisted reproductive technology but may still have some clinical utility in counseling women undergoing fertility treatment regarding pregnancy rates, particularly those with DOR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reshef Tal
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut.
| | - Oded Tal
- School of Business and Hospitality, Conestoga College, Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
| | - Benjamin J Seifer
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - David B Seifer
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health Science University, Portland, Oregon
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Tramišak Milaković T, Panić Horvat L, Čavlović K, Smiljan Severinski N, Vlašić H, Vlastelić I, Ljiljak D, Radojčić Badovinac A. Follicular fluid anti-Müllerian hormone: a predictive marker of fertilization capacity of MII oocytes. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2014; 291:681-7. [PMID: 25205183 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-014-3460-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2014] [Accepted: 08/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The present study aimed to correlate anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels in follicular fluid (FF) with oocyte maturity stages, morphological quality of metaphase II (MII) oocyte and fertilization capacity of MII oocytes. METHODS A total of 92 infertile women undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation and intracytoplasmic sperm injection were analyzed. Patients were divided into two groups according to age: <35 years (n = 43) and ≥35 years (n = 49). An FF sample was obtained from a single dominant follicle in each patient for a total of 92 follicular fluid samples analyzed. AMH levels in serum and follicular fluid were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Mature MII oocytes, zygotes, and embryos were assessed for morphological quality. RESULTS Serum AMH levels were significantly higher in patients aged <35 years. No correlation was observed between FF AMH level and oocyte maturation stages or morphological quality of MII oocyte. Significantly lower FF AMH levels were observed in fertilized MII oocytes than in non-fertilized MII oocytes in patients aged <35 years (2.56 ± 2.0 ng/ml vs. 4.81 ± 4.14 ng/ml; p = 0.032). CONCLUSIONS The present study revealed no correlation between FF AMH and oocyte maturity stage or morphological quality of MII oocyte. However, FF AMH might be a predictive marker for fertilization capacity of MII oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Tramišak Milaković
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Hospital Center Rijeka, University of Rijeka, Cambierieva 17/5, 51 000, Rijeka, Croatia,
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Kim JH, Lee JR, Chang HJ, Jee BC, Suh CS, Kim SH. Anti-Müllerian hormone levels in the follicular fluid of the preovulatory follicle: a predictor for oocyte fertilization and quality of embryo. J Korean Med Sci 2014; 29:1266-70. [PMID: 25246746 PMCID: PMC4168181 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2014.29.9.1266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2014] [Accepted: 05/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This prospective study investigated the relationship between anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) level in the follicular fluid (FF) and the quality of the oocyte and embryo. A total of 65 FF samples from 54 women were included in this study. FF was collected from the largest preovulatory follicle sized≥20 mm of mean diameter from each ovary. Samples were divided into 3 groups according to the FF AMH levels: below the 33th percentile (low group, FF AMH<2.1 ng/mL, n=21), between the 33th and the 67th percentile (intermediate group, FF AMH=2.1-3.6 ng/mL, n=22), and above the 67th percentile (high group, FF AMH>3.6 ng/mL, n=22). The quality of the ensuing oocytes and embryos was evaluated by fertilization rate and embryo score. FF AMH levels correlated positively with the matched embryo score on day 3 after fertilization (r=0.331, P=0.015). The normal fertilization rate was significantly lower in the low group than in the intermediate group (61.9% vs. 95.5% vs. 77.3%, respectively, P=0.028). Our results suggest that the FF AMH level could be a predictor of the ensuing oocyte and embryo quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jee Hyun Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung Ryeol Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye Jin Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
- Health Promotion Center, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Byung Chul Jee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chang Suk Suh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seok Hyun Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Zhang Y, Shao L, Xu Y, Cui Y, Liu J, Chian RC. Effect of anti-Mullerian hormone in culture medium on quality of mouse oocytes matured in vitro. PLoS One 2014; 9:e99393. [PMID: 24932501 PMCID: PMC4059625 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0099393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2014] [Accepted: 05/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) is thought to reflect the growth of follicles and the ovarian function. However, the role of AMH in culture medium during in vitro maturation (IVM) on oocyte quality and subsequent development potential is unclear. The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of recombinant human AMH (rh-AMH) supplemented into IVM medium on oocyte quality. Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were obtained from ICR mice and cultured in vitro with the different concentrations (0–1,000 ng/ml) of rh-AMH. Following 16–18 h of culture, quantitative PCR and ELISA were performed to analyze GDF9 and BMP15 mRNA expression and protein production from the oocytes. Subsequently, in vitro fertilization (IVF) and early embryonic development were employed to further evaluate the quality of in vitro matured oocytes. The results showed that AMH was only expressed in cumulus cells but not in the oocytes. However, AMH most specific receptor, AMHR-II, was expressed in both oocytes and cumulus cells. The levels of GDF9 and BMP15 expression and blastocyst formation rate were significantly increased (p<0.05) when the IVM medium was supplemented with 100 ng/ml of rh-AMH. With AdH1-SiRNA/AMH for knocking down of AMH expression during IVM significantly reduced (p<0.05) the levels of GDF9 and BMP15 expression and blastocysts formation rate. These results suggest that AHM improves oocytes quality by up-regulating GDF9 and BMP15 expressions during IVM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Li Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yixin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yigui Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiayin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- * E-mail: ;
| | - Ri-Cheng Chian
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Division of Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
- * E-mail: ;
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von Wolff M, Kollmann Z, Fluck CE, Stute P, Marti U, Weiss B, Bersinger NA. Gonadotrophin stimulation for in vitro fertilization significantly alters the hormone milieu in follicular fluid: a comparative study between natural cycle IVF and conventional IVF. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:1049-57. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Mehta BN, Chimote MN, Chimote NN, Nath NM, Chimote NM. Follicular-fluid anti-Mullerian hormone (FF AMH) is a plausible biochemical indicator of functional viability of oocyte in conventional in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles. J Hum Reprod Sci 2013; 6:99-105. [PMID: 24082650 PMCID: PMC3778613 DOI: 10.4103/0974-1208.117168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2012] [Revised: 04/13/2013] [Accepted: 05/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Oocyte quality may be a governing factor in influencing in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes. However, morphological evaluation of oocyte quality is difficult in conventional IVF cycles. Follicular-fluid (FF), the site for oocyte growth and development, has not yet been sufficiently explored to obtain a marker indicative of oocyte quality. Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) is produced by granulosa cells of preantral and early-antral follicles and is released in FF. AIM To investigate AMH as a biochemical indicator of functional viability/quality of oocyte produced in the FF micro-environmental milieu. SETTINGS AND DESIGN Prospective study involving 132 cycles of conventional IVF-embryo transfer (ET) in infertile women. SUBJECTS AND METHODS AMH concentration was estimated in pooled FF on day of oocyte pickup. Cycles were sorted into low and high groups according to median (50 (th) centile) values of measurement. Main outcome measure was oocyte viability, which included morphological assessment of oocyte quality, fertilization rate, clinical pregnancy, and implantation rates. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS Graph-pad Prism 5 statistical package. RESULTS Low FF AMH group shows significantly higher percentage of top-quality oocytes (65.08 ± 24.88 vs. 50.18 ± 25.01%, P =0.0126), fertilization (83.65 ± 18.38 vs. 75.78 ± 21.02%, P =0.0171), clinical pregnancy (57.57 vs. 16.67%, P >0.0001), and embryo implantation rates (29.79 vs. 7.69%, P >0.0001) compared to high FF AMH group. FF AMH shares an inverse correlation with FF E2 (Pearson r = -0.43, r(2) = 0.18) and clinical pregnancy (Pearson r = -0.46, r(2) = 0.21). Threshold value of FF AMH for pregnancy is >1.750 ng/mg protein. CONCLUSION FF AMH is a plausible biochemical indicator of functional viability of oocyte in conventional IVF cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bindu N Mehta
- Department of Embryology and Biochemistry Research Laboratory, Vaunshdhara Clinic and Assisted Conception Centre, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
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Bertoldo MJ, Nadal-Desbarats L, Gérard N, Dubois A, Holyoake PK, Grupen CG. Differences in the metabolomic signatures of porcine follicular fluid collected from environments associated with good and poor oocyte quality. Reproduction 2013; 146:221-31. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-13-0142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The microenvironment of the developing follicle is critical to the acquisition of oocyte developmental competence, which is influenced by several factors including follicle size and season. The aim of this study was to characterise the metabolomic signatures of porcine follicular fluid (FF) collected from good and poor follicular environments, using high-resolution proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) spectroscopy. Sow ovaries were collected at slaughter, 4 days after weaning, in summer and winter. The contents of small (3–4 mm) and large (5–8 mm) diameter follicles were aspirated and pooled separately for each ovary pair. Groups classified as summer-small (n=8), summer-large (n=15), winter-small (n=9) and winter-large (n=15) were analysed by1H-NMR spectroscopy. The concentrations of 11 metabolites differed due to follicle size alone (P<0.05), including glucose, lactate, hypoxanthine and five amino acids. The concentrations of all these metabolites, except for glucose, were lower in large FF compared with small FF. Significant interaction effects of follicle size and season were found for the concentrations of glutamate, glycine,N-acetyl groups and uridine. Succinate was the only metabolite that differed in concentration due to season alone (P<0.05). The FF levels of progesterone, androstenedione and oestradiol were correlated with the concentrations of most of the metabolites examined. The results indicate that there is a distinct shift in follicular glucose metabolism as follicles increase in diameter and suggest that follicular cells may be more vulnerable to oxidative stress during the summer months. Our findings demonstrate the power of1H-NMR spectroscopy to expand our understanding of the dynamic and complex microenvironment of the developing follicle.
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