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Alcalá-Sánchez X, Cuapio-Padilla P, Salazar-López C, Rodríguez R, Teteltitla M, Bahena I, Betancourt M, Casas E, Casillas F, López A, Bonilla E. Comparison of DNA damage in granulosa cells of women undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation in in vitro fertilization protocols with the recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormones Corneumon ®, Gonal-F ®, Pergoveris ® and Puregon ®: a randomized trial. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2024; 309:2107-2114. [PMID: 38441601 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-024-07392-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the DNA damage in granulosa cells (GCs) of women undergoing ovarian-stimulated cycles with four widely used recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormones (rhFSH) in in vitro fertilization (IVF) protocols (Corneumon®, Gonal-F®, Pergoveris® and Puregon®). METHODS A randomized trial was carried out at a Mexican hospital. GCs were isolated from 18 women with infertility undergoing assisted reproductive techniques (ART). Four controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) protocols including Corneumon®, Gonal-F®, Pergoveris® or Puregon® were used. GCs DNA damage was assessed by the Comet assay. Two parameters were measured: comet tail length (CTL), and Olive tail moment (OTM, the percentage of DNA in the tail multiplied by the distance between the center of the tail and head). RESULTS Use of the different hrFSH in COS caused variable and statistically significant levels of DNA damage in GCs of infertile women. CTL was similar in the Corneumon® and Pergoveris® groups (mean values of 48.73 and 55.18, respectively) and Corneumon® CTL was significantly lower compared to the Gonal-F® and Puregon® groups (mean values of 61.98 and 91.17, respectively). Mean OTM values were significantly lower in Corneumon® and Pergoveris® groups, compared to Gonal-F® and Puregon® groups (25.59, 27.35, 34.76, and 47.27, respectively). CONCLUSION Use of Corneumon® and Pergoveris® in COS caused statistically significantly lower levels of DNA damage in GCs of infertile women undergoing ART, which could potentially correlate with better reproductive outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ximena Alcalá-Sánchez
- Department of Health Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University-Iztapalapa Campus, 09340, Mexico City, Mexico
- Master's Degree Program in Animal Reproduction Biology, Metropolitan Autonomous University-Iztapalapa Campus, 09340, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Pedro Cuapio-Padilla
- HISPAREP Assisted Reproduction Clinic, Hospital Español, 11520 CDMX, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Carlos Salazar-López
- HISPAREP Assisted Reproduction Clinic, Hospital Español, 11520 CDMX, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Ricardo Rodríguez
- HISPAREP Assisted Reproduction Clinic, Hospital Español, 11520 CDMX, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mario Teteltitla
- Department of Health Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University-Iztapalapa Campus, 09340, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Iván Bahena
- Department of Health Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University-Iztapalapa Campus, 09340, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Miguel Betancourt
- Department of Health Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University-Iztapalapa Campus, 09340, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Eduardo Casas
- Department of Health Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University-Iztapalapa Campus, 09340, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Fahiel Casillas
- Department of Biology of Reproduction, Metropolitan Autonomous University-Iztapalapa Campus, 09340, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Alma López
- Department of Health Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University-Iztapalapa Campus, 09340, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Edmundo Bonilla
- Department of Health Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University-Iztapalapa Campus, 09340, Mexico City, Mexico.
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Choo CW, Ahn YS, Kim KH, Lee JH, Moon KY, Choi BC, Kang YJ, Kim HY, Sim CH, Han JE, Kim CH, Jang EJ, Lee Y, Moon JW, Park DS, Won HJ, Kim AN, Kim JY, Kim KR, Ahn JH, Lee JY, Gwak H, Kim JH. Effectiveness and Safety of Recombinant Human Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (Follitrope™) in Inducing Controlled Ovarian Stimulation in Infertile Women in Real-World Practice: a Prospective Cohort Study. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:2842-2852. [PMID: 37067727 PMCID: PMC10480279 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01228-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone (rhFSH [Follitrope™]) in infertile women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). To identify predictors of ovarian response that induce optimal clinical outcomes. This multicenter prospective study enrolled infertile women who were scheduled to undergo IVF after ovarian stimulation with rhFSH (Follitrope™) following the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist or GnRH antagonist protocol. Predictive factors for ovarian response were identified in the GnRH antagonist group based on the number of oocytes retrieved. A total of 516 infertile women were enrolled, among whom 136 (except one who withdrew before administration) received rhFSH using the GnRH agonist protocol and 379 using the antagonist protocol. The mean number of oocytes retrieved was 13.4 in the GnRH agonist group and 13.6 in the GnRH antagonist group. The clinical pregnancy rates were 32.3% (30/93) and 39.9% (115/288) in the GnRH agonist and antagonist groups, respectively. The incidence of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome was 1.8% and 3.4% in the GnRH agonist and antagonist groups, respectively. No other significant safety risks associated with rhFSH administration were identified. Body mass index, basal serum FSH and anti-Müllerian hormone levels, and antral follicle count were identified as predictors of ovarian response by multiple regression with backward elimination, and the final regression model accounted for 26.5% of the response variability. In real-world practice, rhFSH (Follitrope™) is safe and effective in inducing ovarian stimulation in infertile women. Patient characteristics identified as predictors can be considered to be highly related to optimal clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Woo Choo
- Department of Gynecologic Endocrinology, Female Infertility, Fertility Preservation, Seoul Maria Fertility Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Kyu Hyun Kim
- Bucheon Maria Fertility Hospital, Bucheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Ho Lee
- Ilsan Maria Fertility Hospital, Goyang, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Bum-Chae Choi
- Center for Infertility & Recurrent Miscarriage, Creation & Love Women's Hospital, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Je Kang
- Pyeongchon Maria Fertility Hospital, Anyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Young Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center, Agaon Fertility Clinic, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chae Hee Sim
- Mamapapa and Baby Ob/Gy Clinic, Ulsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Eun Han
- Miraeyeon Fertility Clinic, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Eun Jeong Jang
- Pyeongchon Maria Fertility Hospital, Anyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoojin Lee
- MizMedi Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Dong Soo Park
- CHA Daegu Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | | | - An Na Kim
- Pyeongchon Maria Fertility Hospital, Anyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju-Young Kim
- Sae Ran Women's Clinic, Jeonju, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Ji Hyun Ahn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center, Agaon Fertility Clinic, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Heemin Gwak
- Life Sciences, LG Chem, Ltd., Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Hyang Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center of CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, 64 Yatap-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do, 13520, Republic of Korea.
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Follitropin alpha versus beta in a first GnRH antagonist ICSI cycle: a retrospective cohort study. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 43:655-662. [PMID: 34474975 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Are cumulative live birth rates (CLBR) after follitropin alpha (Ovaleap®) and follitropin beta (Puregon®) similar when used for ovarian stimulation with ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) in a first-rank gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist protocol? DESIGN Retrospective single-centre cohort study including 832 infertile patients undergoing ovarian stimulation with a daily dose of 150-225 IU FSH in their first ICSI cycle at a tertiary referral centre between July 2016 and July 2019. Of those, 349 patients used Ovaleap and 483 patients received Puregon. RESULTS Baseline characteristics were not statistically different between the groups. The duration of stimulation was slightly longer in the Ovaleap group (10.6 ± 1.7 versus 10.3 ± 1.6 days; P = 0.012). The number of mature oocytes was not statistically different and there was no significant difference in fertilization rate or embryo utilization rate between the two groups. After fresh embryo transfer, biochemical pregnancy rate (137/349 [39.3%] versus 186/483 [38.5%]) as well as clinical pregnancy rate (105/349 [30.1%] versus 152/483 [31.5%]) were comparable (P = 0.83 and 0.67, respectively). Live birth rate (LBR) after fresh embryo transfer (94/349 [26.9%] versus 141/483 [29.2%]; P = 0.48) and CLBR (199/349 [57.0%] versus 287/483 [59.4%]; P = 0.49) were not significantly different. Multivariable regression analysis revealed that the type of gonadotrophin was not associated with CLBR (P = 0.28). CONCLUSION This retrospective study shows no significant difference in CLBR between Ovaleap and Puregon in patients undergoing their first GnRH antagonist ICSI cycle.
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Haakman O, Liang T, Murray K, Vilos A, Vilos G, Bates C, Watson AJ, Miller MR, Abu-Rafea B. In vitro fertilization cycles stimulated with follitropin delta result in similar embryo development and quality when compared with cycles stimulated with follitropin alfa or follitropin beta. F S Rep 2020; 2:30-35. [PMID: 34223270 PMCID: PMC8244387 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfre.2020.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To study the impact of follitropin delta for ovarian stimulation on embryo development and quality compared with that of follitropin alfa or beta in in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) cycles. Design Retrospective cohort study Setting University-affiliated, hospital-based fertility clinic Patient(s) A total of 403 IVF/ICSI cycles were conducted from September 1, 2018 to December 31, 2019. Cycles were grouped on the basis of stimulation with follitropin delta vs. follitropin alfa or beta. Intervention(s) None. Main Outcome Measure(s) Embryo parameters and clinical pregnancy and implantation rates. Result(s) Ovarian stimulation using follitropin delta resulted in no statistically significant difference in day 3 embryo quality between the control group and follitropin delta group (median 0.50 vs. 0.54 for good quality embryos and median 0.25 vs. 0.20 for intermediate quality embryos). Although on initial analysis there was a lower proportion of good quality blastocysts in the follitropin delta group than in the control group (0.11 vs. 0.22), this difference was no longer present when day 3 after fertilization vitrification and transfer cycles were excluded (0.26 vs. 0.33 follitropin delta vs. control). The clinical pregnancy rates and clinical implantation rates were similar in both groups in fresh transfer cycles. Conclusion(s) Stimulation with follitropin delta in IVF/ICSI cycles resulted in similar embryo development and pregnancy rates compared with those of stimulation with follitropin alfa or beta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Haakman
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tina Liang
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kristen Murray
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Angelos Vilos
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - George Vilos
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Carlee Bates
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew J. Watson
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael R. Miller
- Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Health Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Basim Abu-Rafea
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
- Reprint requests: Basim Abu-Rafea, M.D., The Fertility Clinic, Victoria Hospital, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, N6A 5W9.
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Velthuis E, Hubbard J, Longobardi S, D’Hooghe T. The Frequency of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome and Thromboembolism with Originator Recombinant Human Follitropin Alfa (GONAL-f) for Medically Assisted Reproduction: A Systematic Review. Adv Ther 2020; 37:4831-4847. [PMID: 33058045 PMCID: PMC7595967 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-020-01512-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Background Recombinant human follitropin alfa (r-hFSH) is used for ovarian stimulation as part of medically assisted reproduction. There is a risk for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) with r-hFSH treatment, and an increased risk for thromboembolic events in the presence of pregnancy with OHSS. Objectives To report the frequency of OHSS and thromboembolism with originator follitropin alfa (GONAL-f) based on the Global Safety Database of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany and a systematic review of published data. Data Sources Reports of OHSS and thromboembolism were obtained from the Global Safety Database of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany from 20 October 1995 to 19 October 2018. The systematic review was based on MEDLINE and Embase searches from inception to 19 October 2018. Study Eligibility Criteria Patients receiving GONAL-f for ovulation induction or ART, with a starting dose within the range included in the prescribing information and providing information on the occurrence of OHSS and/or thromboembolism. Study Appraisal and Synthesis Matches In the Global Safety Database of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany there were an estimated 16,525,975 treatment cycles since 20 October 1995; 1110 reported cases of OHSS and 80 reported cases of thromboembolic events (reporting rates 6.7 and 0.48 per 100,000 treatment cycles, respectively). The systematic review identified 45 studies (5186 patients exposed to GONAL-f; 5240 treatment cycles). There were 272 reports of OHSS (5190 [5.19%] per 100,000 treatment cycles), including 10 cases of severe OHSS (191 [0.19%] per 100,000 treatment cycles). Limitations There may be the potential for under-reporting of safety outcomes in the literature, and under-reporting is a well-known phenomenon in spontaneous reporting databases. Conclusion and Implications of Key Findings Our analyses demonstrate low rates of OHSS and thromboembolism with GONAL-f. Electronic Supplementary Material The online version of this article (10.1007/s12325-020-01512-w) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Human Recombinant FSH and Its Biosimilars: Clinical Efficacy, Safety, and Cost-Effectiveness in Controlled Ovarian Stimulation for In Vitro Fertilization. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2020; 13:ph13070136. [PMID: 32605133 PMCID: PMC7407829 DOI: 10.3390/ph13070136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Exogenous human follicle-stimulating hormone (hFSH), either derived from extraction and purification from the urine or obtained by recombinant technology in the form of follitropin α, β and δ (rFSH), has been used for decades in the treatment of infertility. The main applications of FSH treatment in the woman have been, and still are, ovulation induction in oligo-anovulatory subjects, and stimulation of the development of a cohort of follicles in patients undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) for in vitro fertilization (IVF). In the last years, two biosimilars of follitropin alfa, rFSH compounds structurally and functionally similar to the originator, have been approved and marketed for clinical use in Europe. Moreover, some other rFSH biosimilars are currently under investigation. The objective of this article is to review the available evidences comparing the efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of rFSH follitropin alpha originator with its biosimilars, discussing the clinical trials that allowed biosimilars to get registration and marketing authorization.
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Hu L, Zhang S, Quan S, Lv J, Qian W, Huang Y, Lu W, Sun Y. Efficacy and safety of recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:4918-4930. [PMID: 32209728 PMCID: PMC7138541 DOI: 10.18632/aging.102919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
To compare the ovarian responses after administration of two recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (r-FSH) preparations under gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogue downregulation, we conducted a phase 3, randomized, multicenter, assessor-blind, active-controlled, parallel group study. The primary outcome was the number of oocytes retrieved. The secondary outcomes included total dose and duration of r-FSH administered, oocyte quality, blood estradiol levels, follicular development, fertilization rates, implantation rates, and pregnancy rates (biochemical, clinical, and ongoing). A total of 451 patients with infertility were randomized to receive either Follitrope™ Prefilled Syringe or Gonal-F® Pen for ovarian stimulation. The mean number of oocytes retrieved was 14.9 in the FollitropeTM Prefilled Syringe group, and 12.8 in the Gonal-F® Pen group. The 95% confidence interval in the oocyte number difference between the groups was [-0.1, 4.2], demonstrating that FollitropeTM Prefilled Syringe was not inferior to Gonal-F® Pen. The clinical pregnancy rates (FollitropeTM Prefilled Syringe vs. Gonal-F® Pen: 55.4% vs. 51.9%) and ongoing pregnancy rates (44.1% vs. 43.0%) were similar between the groups. No clinically significant adverse events were observed in either group. In summary, our study indicates that FollitropeTM Prefilled Syringe is safe and efficacious for ovarian stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linli Hu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Reproductive Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Songying Zhang
- Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital of Zhejiang University, Reproductive Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Song Quan
- Southern Medical University, Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jieqiang Lv
- Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Reproductive Medicine, Wenzhou, China
| | - Weiping Qian
- Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Reproductive Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuanhua Huang
- Hainan Medical College, Reproductive Medicine, Haikou, China
| | - Weiying Lu
- Hainan Medical College, Reproductive Medicine, Haikou, China
| | - Yingpu Sun
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Reproductive Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
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Lunenfeld B, Bilger W, Longobardi S, Alam V, D'Hooghe T, Sunkara SK. The Development of Gonadotropins for Clinical Use in the Treatment of Infertility. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:429. [PMID: 31333582 PMCID: PMC6616070 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The first commercially available gonadotropin product was a human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) extract, followed by animal pituitary gonadotropin extracts. These extracts were effective, leading to the introduction of the two-step protocol, which involved ovarian stimulation using animal gonadotropins followed by ovulation triggering using hCG. However, ovarian response to animal gonadotropins was maintained for only a short period of time due to immune recognition. This prompted the development of human pituitary gonadotropins; however, supply problems, the risk for Creutzfeld-Jakob disease, and the advent of recombinant technology eventually led to the withdrawal of human pituitary gonadotropin from the market. Urinary human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) preparations were also produced, with subsequent improvements in purification techniques enabling development of products with standardized proportions of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) activity. In 1962 the first reported pregnancy following ovulation stimulation with hMG and ovulation induction with hCG was described, and this product was later established as part of the standard protocol for ART. Improvements in immunopurification techniques enabled the removal of LH from hMG preparations; however, unidentified urinary protein contaminants remained a problem. Subsequently, monoclonal FSH antibodies were used to produce a highly purified FSH preparation containing <0.1 IU of LH activity and <5% unidentified urinary proteins, enabling the formulation of smaller injection volumes that could be administered subcutaneously rather than intramuscularly. Ongoing issues with gonadotropins derived from urine donations, including batch-to-batch variability and a finite donor supply, were overcome by the development of recombinant gonadotropin products. The first recombinant human FSH molecules received marketing approvals in 1995 (follitropin alfa) and 1996 (follitropin beta). These had superior purity and a more homogenous glycosylation pattern compared with urinary or pituitary FSH. Subsequently recombinant versions of LH and hCG have been developed, and biosimilar versions of follitropin alfa have received marketing authorization. More recent developments include a recombinant FSH produced using a human cell line, and a long-acting FSH preparation. These state of the art products are administered subcutaneously via pen injection devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Lunenfeld
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Wilma Bilger
- Medical Affairs Fertility, Endocrinology and General Medicine, Merck Serono GmbH, Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | - Veronica Alam
- Global Clinical Development, EMD Serono, Rockland, MA, United States
- A Business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Thomas D'Hooghe
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
- Organ Systems, Group Biomedical Sciences, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven (University of Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Sesh K. Sunkara
- Assisted Conception Unit, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
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Lankreijer K, D'Hooghe TM, Apers S, Sermeus W, Repping S, Dancet EA. Hormonal medication in medically assisted reproduction: a systematic review of assessments from patients. Reprod Biomed Online 2019; 38:341-363. [PMID: 30770286 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.12.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Revised: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Several hormonal fertility medications have comparable effectiveness. A literature review was conducted into patients' assessments regarding seven medication characteristics including 'side effects' and 'ease of use'. Medline, CINAHL and PsycINFO were searched for female fertility patients' written assessments of a hormonal medication. The tools used were appraised and common (i.e. ≥10%) unpleasant consequences were distinguished from rare ones. The 35 eligible studies did not rely on valid and reliable tools and did not provide patient assessments regarding all seven medication characteristics for any of the globally used medications. Evidence on medications for oocyte triggering was absent and for induction of pituitary quiescence it was scarce. Regarding medications for ovarian stimulation and luteal support, evidence on general side effects (mostly headache), local side effects (mostly pain), 'interference with home life' and 'impact on psychological wellbeing' was found. Evidence on 'ease of use' and 'required education' was only identified for medication for ovarian stimulation. Evidence on 'interference with work life' and 'compliance worry' was absent. This review calls for randomized controlled trials questioning patients with valid and reliable tools. In the meantime, this review's summary of the best available evidence can be integrated in decision aids facilitating personalized and informed medication choices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kay Lankreijer
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Women's and Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Thomas M D'Hooghe
- University of Leuven, Department of Development and Regeneration, Leuven, Belgium; Adjunct Professor, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Vice-President and Head, Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Research and Development, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Silke Apers
- University of Leuven, Department of Development and Regeneration, Leuven, Belgium; University of Leuven, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Walter Sermeus
- University of Leuven, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sjoerd Repping
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Women's and Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Eline Af Dancet
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Women's and Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; University of Leuven, Department of Development and Regeneration, Leuven, Belgium; University of Leuven, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leuven, Belgium; Research Foundation Flanders, Belgium.
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10
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Riccetti L, Sperduti S, Lazzaretti C, Klett D, De Pascali F, Paradiso E, Limoncella S, Potì F, Tagliavini S, Trenti T, Galano E, Palmese A, Satwekar A, Daolio J, Nicoli A, Villani MT, Aguzzoli L, Reiter E, Simoni M, Casarini L. Glycosylation Pattern and in vitro Bioactivity of Reference Follitropin alfa and Biosimilars. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:503. [PMID: 31396162 PMCID: PMC6667556 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) (follitropin alfa) and biosimilar preparations are available for clinical use. They have specific FSH activity and a unique glycosylation profile dependent on source cells. The aim of the study is to compare the originator (reference) follitropin alfa (Gonal-f®)- with biosimilar preparations (Bemfola® and Ovaleap®)-induced cellular responses in vitro. Gonadotropin N-glycosylation profiles were analyzed by ELISA lectin assay, revealing preparation specific-patterns of glycan species (Kruskal-Wallis test; p < 0.05, n = 6) and by glycotope mapping. Increasing concentrations of Gonal-f® or biosimilar (1 × 10-3-1 × 103 ng/ml) were used for treating human primary granulosa lutein cells (hGLC) and FSH receptor (FSHR)-transfected HEK293 cells in vitro. Intracellular cAMP production, Ca2+ increase and β-arrestin 2 recruitment were evaluated by BRET, CREB, and ERK1/2 phosphorylation by Western blotting. 12-h gene expression, and 8- and 24-h progesterone and estradiol synthesis were measured by real-time PCR and immunoassay, respectively. We found preparation-specific glycosylation patterns by lectin assay (Kruskal-Wallis test; p < 0.001; n = 6), and similar cAMP production and β-arrestin 2 recruitment in FSHR-transfected HEK293 cells (cAMP EC50 range = 12 ± 0.9-24 ± 1.7 ng/ml; β-arrestin 2 EC50 range = 140 ± 14.1-313 ± 18.7 ng/ml; Kruskal-Wallis test; p ≥ 0.05; n = 4). Kinetics analysis revealed that intracellular Ca2+ increased upon cell treatment by 4 μg/ml Gonal-f®, while equal concentrations of biosimilars failed to induced a response (Kruskal-Wallis test; p < 0.05; n = 3). All preparations induced both 8 and 24 h-progesterone and estradiol synthesis in hGLC, while no different EC50s were demonstrated (Kruskal-Wallis test; p > 0.05; n = 5). Apart from preparation-specific intracellular Ca2+ increases achieved at supra-physiological hormone doses, all compounds induced similar intracellular responses and steroidogenesis, reflecting similar bioactivity, and overall structural homogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Riccetti
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Samantha Sperduti
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Clara Lazzaretti
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- International PhD School in Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Danièle Klett
- PRC, INRA, CNRS, IFCE, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | | | - Elia Paradiso
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- International PhD School in Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Silvia Limoncella
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesco Potì
- Unit of Neurosciences, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Simonetta Tagliavini
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathological Anatomy, Azienda USL, NOCSAE, Modena, Italy
| | - Tommaso Trenti
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathological Anatomy, Azienda USL, NOCSAE, Modena, Italy
| | - Eugenio Galano
- Analytical Development Biotech Products, Merck Serono S.p.A. (an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Rome, Italy
| | - Angelo Palmese
- Analytical Development Biotech Products, Merck Serono S.p.A. (an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Rome, Italy
| | - Abhijeet Satwekar
- Analytical Development Biotech Products, Merck Serono S.p.A. (an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Rome, Italy
| | - Jessica Daolio
- Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale—IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fertility Center, ASMN, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Alessia Nicoli
- Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale—IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fertility Center, ASMN, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Villani
- Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale—IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fertility Center, ASMN, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Aguzzoli
- Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale—IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fertility Center, ASMN, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Eric Reiter
- PRC, INRA, CNRS, IFCE, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- PRC, INRA, CNRS, IFCE, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Modena, Italy
| | - Livio Casarini
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- *Correspondence: Livio Casarini
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Pang SC. Use of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone for the Treatment of Female Infertility – Current Concepts. WOMENS HEALTH 2017. [DOI: 10.1517/17455057.1.1.087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Ovulatory dysfunction, which is common among women of reproductive age, often results in infertility. Over the last three decades, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), in the form of either urinary human menopausal gonadotropin or highly purified urinary FSH (uFSH), has been the mainstay in the treatment of women with ovulatory dysfunction. However, these preparations have several disadvantages, including variable composition, contamination with urinary proteins, and the limited availability of human menopausal urine from which uFSH is extracted. Recombinant human FSH (rhFSH) demonstrates higher purity and specific activity, and is suitable for subcutaneous administration. Additionally, rhFSH has facilitated the development of additional FSH products such as FSH-carboxy terminal peptide that possess different pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties and may provide more options in the treatment of ovulatory dysfunction and infertility. This article reviews the mechanism of action of FSH in folliculogenesis and ovulation, the current use of FSH in women for the medical management of infertility, and the published clinical experience to date with different rhFSH preparations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel C Pang
- Reproductive Science Center of Boston, 1 Forbes Road, Lexington, MA 02421-7305, USA, Tel.: +1 781 674 1200; Fax: +1 781 674 2442
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12
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Casarini L, Brigante G, Simoni M, Santi D. Clinical Applications of Gonadotropins in the Female: Assisted Reproduction and Beyond. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2016; 143:85-119. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2016.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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13
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Santi D, Simoni M. Biosimilar recombinant follicle stimulating hormones in infertility treatment. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2014; 14:1399-409. [DOI: 10.1517/14712598.2014.925872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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14
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Pang SC. Use of follicle-stimulating hormone for the treatment of female infertility - current concepts. WOMENS HEALTH 2012; 1:87-95. [PMID: 19803949 DOI: 10.2217/17455057.1.1.87] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Ovulatory dysfunction, which is common among women of reproductive age, often results in infertility. Over the last three decades, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), in the form of either urinary human menopausal gonadotropin or highly purified urinary FSH (uFSH), has been the mainstay in the treatment of women with ovulatory dysfunction. However, these preparations have several disadvantages, including variable composition, contamination with urinary proteins, and the limited availability of human menopausal urine from which uFSH is extracted. Recombinant human FSH (rhFSH) demonstrates higher purity and specific activity, and is suitable for subcutaneous administration. Additionally, rhFSH has facilitated the development of additional FSH products such as FSH-carboxy terminal peptide that possess different pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties and may provide more options in the treatment of ovulatory dysfunction and infertility. This article reviews the mechanism of action of FSH in folliculogenesis and ovulation, the current use of FSH in women for the medical management of infertility, and the published clinical experience to date with different rhFSH preparations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel C Pang
- Reproductive Science Center of Boston, 1 Forbes Road, Lexington, MA 02421-7305, USA. Samuel.Pang@ IntegraMed.com
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15
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Dias JA, Bonnet B, Weaver BA, Watts J, Kluetzman K, Thomas RM, Poli S, Mutel V, Campo B. A negative allosteric modulator demonstrates biased antagonism of the follicle stimulating hormone receptor. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2011; 333:143-50. [PMID: 21184806 PMCID: PMC4491433 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2010.12.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2010] [Revised: 12/15/2010] [Accepted: 12/15/2010] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
High quality gamete production in males and females requires the pituitary gonadotropin follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). In this report a novel chemical class of small molecule inhibitors of FSH receptor (FSHR) is described. ADX61623, a negative allosteric modulator (NAM), increased the affinity of interaction between (125)I-hFSH and human FSHR (hFSHR) five fold. This form of FSHR occupied simultaneously by FSH and ADX61623 was inactive for cAMP and progesterone production in primary cultures of rat granulosa cells. In contrast, ADX61623 did not block estrogen production. This demonstrates for the first time, biased antagonism at the FSHR. To determine if ADX61623 blocked FSH induction of follicle development in vivo, a bioassay to measure follicular development and oocyte production in immature female rats was validated. ADX61623 was not completely effective in blocking FSH induced follicular development in vivo at doses up to 100mg/kg as oocyte production and ovarian weight gain were only moderately reduced. These data illustrate that FSHR couples to multiple signaling pathways in vivo. Suppression of one pool of FSHR uncouples Gαs and cAMP production, and decreases progesterone production. Occupancy of another pool of FSHR sensitizes granulosa cells to FSH induced estradiol production. Therefore, ADX61623 is a useful tool to investigate further the mechanism of the FSHR signaling dichotomy. This may lead to a greater understanding of the signaling infrastructure which enables estrogen biosynthesis and may prove useful in treating estrogen dependent disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A Dias
- Wadsworth Center, David Axelrod Institute for Public Health, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY 12208, United States.
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16
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Follitropin-α (Gonal-F) versus follitropin-β (Puregon) in controlled ovarian hyperstimulation for in vitro fertilization: is there any difference? Fertil Steril 2009; 91:1522-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.08.112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2008] [Revised: 08/18/2008] [Accepted: 08/21/2008] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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17
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Aghssa MM, Azargoon A, Ramezanzadeh F, Bagheri M. A comparison of the efficacy, tolerability, and convenience of two formulations of follitropin-alpha in Iranian woman undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles. Fertil Steril 2007; 90:1043-8. [PMID: 18053995 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2007.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2006] [Revised: 08/01/2007] [Accepted: 08/01/2007] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the efficacy, tolerability, and convenience of two formulations of the follitropin-alpha (Gonal-f) pen device versus the conventional form in Iranian women undergoing ovarian stimulation for intracytoplasmic sperm injection. DESIGN Randomized, single-center trial, parallel-group, single blind. SETTING Tertiary referral center, University Hospital. PATIENT(S) A total of 100 patients undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection. INTERVENTION(S) After down-regulation with busereline acetate, patients were randomized to receive the pen device or the conventional syringe of follitropin-alpha. A computer-generated randomization list was used to allocate the patients to one of these two groups. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The primary outcomes were patients' satisfaction, convenience, occurrence of local tolerance symptoms, and pain. Total dose of follitropin-alpha, duration of follitropin-alpha treatment, number of oocyte retrieved, number of viable embryos, and clinical pregnancies were secondary outcome measures. Data collection was performed by means of a questionnaire designed for the purpose of this study. The pain scored according to the Visual Analogue Scale. RESULT(S) Self-administration and patients' satisfaction were significantly higher in the pen device group than the conventional syringe group. Local reactions at injection sites and pain were significantly higher in the conventional syringe group than in the pen device group. There were no statistically differences in secondary outcome measures and convenience between two groups. CONCLUSION(S) Among the Iranian patients that we studied, the pen device of Gonal-f is safe, convenient, and less painful, with more patients' satisfaction than the conventional syringe form, but both forms have equal efficacy in intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malek Mansour Aghssa
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Vali-e-Asr Reproductive Health Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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18
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Demirol A, Gurgan T. Comparison of different gonadotrophin preparations in intrauterine insemination cycles for the treatment of unexplained infertility: a prospective, randomized study. Hum Reprod 2006; 22:97-100. [PMID: 16954409 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/del335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A comparison of the effectiveness of different gonadotrophin preparations in intrauterine insemination (IUI) cycles for patients with unexplained infertility was performed. METHODS Two hundred and forty-one patients were prospectively randomized using computer-generated random numbers into three groups: 81 in the Follitropin alpha (Group I), 80 in the urinary FSH (uFSH) (Group II) and 80 in the hMG (Group III). The primary outcome was clinical pregnancy rate with duration of stimulation, total gonadotrophin dose, number of dominant follicles, clinical pregnancy rate, multiple pregnancy, miscarriage rate and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) rate being secondary outcomes. RESULTS Clinical pregnancy rate was significantly higher in the rFSH group (25.9% in Follitropin alpha, 13.8% in uFSH and 12.5% in HMG groups; P = 0.04). There was no significant difference in terms of duration of stimulation, but mean FSH dose consumed per cycle was significantly lower in the recombinant FSH (rFSH) group compared with others (825 IU in Follitropin alpha, 1107 IU in uFSH and 1197 IU in HMG groups; P = 0.001). The number of follicles > or =16 mm diameter was significantly higher in the rFSH group compared with the uFSH and HMG groups (2.6 in Follitropin alpha, 1.3 in uFSH and 1.4 in HMG groups; P = 0.001). CONCLUSION rFSH may result in a better outcome in IUI cycles for unexplained infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Demirol
- Clinic Women Health, Infertility and IVF Center, Hacettep University, Ankara, Turkey.
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19
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Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), a glycoprotein produced by the anterior pituitary gland, plays an important role in the regulation of fertility in both men and women. FSH is used clinically to treat women with anovulatory infertility, for controlled ovarian stimulation in women being treated with assisted reproductive technologies (ART), and in the treatment of male hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism. Urine-derived gonadotropin preparations containing variable amounts of FSH together with urinary proteins have been available for many years. More recently, FSH preparations produced using recombinant DNA technology have become available. Recombinant FSH has a high specific activity, high purity, and guaranteed consistency among batches. Two recombinant FSH preparations have been available for clinical use for some years: follitropin-alpha and follitropin-beta. The continuing development of recombinant FSH has recently resulted in a new presentation (follitropin-alpha filled by mass [FbM]). This product can be filled by mass (microg) with an activity (IU), reflecting exceptional consistency as a result of refinement and improvement in the manufacturing process, allowing the clinician to deliver a guaranteed dose of FSH. Experience with recombinant FSH in the treatment of male hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism is limited, but the available data suggest that recombinant FSH has a similar efficacy to urine-derived preparations (urofollitropin). In patients with WHO group I anovulatory infertility, the use of recombinant FSH to stimulate follicular development is effective and well tolerated. In patients with WHO group II anovulation, protocols based on recombinant FSH are more effective than conventional protocols using urofollitropin. Comparative studies and a meta-analysis have shown that recombinant FSH is more effective than urofollitropin for controlled ovarian stimulation in women undergoing ART. Pharmacoeconomic modeling indicates that follitropin-alpha is more cost effective than urofollitropin in a range of different healthcare systems. The available evidence from comparative studies of the two recombinant FSH preparations suggests that follitropin-alpha may have an advantage over follitropin-beta in terms of efficacy. Follitropin-alpha is superior to follitropin-beta in terms of local tolerability. Recent preliminary studies suggest an efficacy advantage for follitropin-alpha FbM compared with standard follitropin-alpha. The FbM presentation appears to represent an advance on standard preparations of recombinant FSH in terms of consistency and clinical efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salim Daya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
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20
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Tan SL, Child TJ, Cheung AP, Fluker MR, Yuzpe A, Casper R, Leung P, Cadesky K, Davis VJ. A randomized, double-blind, multicenter study comparing a starting dose of 100 IU or 200 IU of recombinant follicle stimulating hormone (Puregon) in women undergoing controlled ovarian hyperstimulation for IVF treatment. J Assist Reprod Genet 2005; 22:81-8. [PMID: 15844733 PMCID: PMC3455475 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-005-1497-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the efficiency and efficacy of two starting doses of recombinant FSH (follitropin-beta, Puregon) in women undergoing IVF treatment. METHODS This prospective, randomized, double-blind, multicentric (N = 6) study included 192 women undergoing IVF using the long protocol of GnRH agonist who received either 100 IU or 200 IU of r-FSH per day. Gonadotropin dose adjustment was allowed after day 4 of stimulation. RESULTS The average (SD) number of oocytes retrieved was 10.9 (5.4) and 12.2 (5.6) in the 100 IU and 200 IU group respectively (p = 0.067). The total doses of Puregon administered were 1887 IU and 2559 IU in the 100 IU and 200 IU group respectively. The number of transferable embryos, and the rates of pregnancies, cancelled cycles, miscarriages and adverse events including OHSS were comparable between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS Women undergoing IVF have similar outcomes whether recombinant FSH is commenced in a dose of 100 IU or 200 IU for the first 4 days of stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seang Lin Tan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Royal Victoria Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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21
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Hugues JN. Recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone: a scientific step to clinical improvement. Reprod Biomed Online 2003; 2:54-64. [PMID: 12537825 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)62188-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Urinary-derived follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) preparations have been used clinically for many years. Although effective, these have a number of disadvantages, not least of which is their variable composition. The availability of recombinant human FSH (r-hFSH), produced from CHO cells, with its constant composition and exceptionally high purity, has, therefore, aroused great interest. This review focuses on the use of r-hFSH for ovarian stimulation in assisted reproduction technology protocols and the treatment of World Health Organization Group I and II anovulation. The use of r-hFSH has been shown to lead to improvements in efficacy over urinary-derived preparations, particularly in assisted reproductive treatment, and a recent meta-analysis has shown higher ongoing pregnancy rates with the recombinant product. Although the two available recombinant products from CHO cells (follitropin alpha [Gonal-F((R))] and beta [Puregon((R))]) are similar from a physicochemical perspective, some minor advantages have been reported for follitropin alpha in relation to pregnancy rates and better local tolerance to injections. The apparent higher bioactivity of r-hFSH has led to reduced total FSH consumption over shorter treatment periods compared with conventional preparations, thus reducing overall exposure for patients. This is likely to confer not only safety benefits, but also cost-effectiveness as demonstrated through pharmaco-economic modelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- J-N Hugues
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital Jean Verdier, Ave du 14 Juillet, 93143 Bondy Cedex, France
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22
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Craenmehr E, Bontje PM, Hoomans E, Voortman G, Mannaerts BMJL. Follitropin-beta administered by pen device has superior local tolerance compared with follitropin-alpha administered by conventional syringe. Reprod Biomed Online 2003; 3:185-189. [PMID: 12513852 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)62033-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
A receiver- and assessor-blind, randomized, single-centre, crossover study was performed in 60 healthy women volunteers, to compare the local tolerance of two recombinant FSH preparations administered by a pen device (delivering 150 IU follitropin-beta) or by conventional syringe (delivering 150 IU follitropin-alpha). Volunteers were randomized to one of two treatment sequences: pen device followed by conventional syringe, or the reverse. Each preparation was injected once, subcutaneously in the umbilical region and local tolerance reactions were assessed within 5 min, at 1 and 24 h after each administration. In addition, subjects were asked to rate the pain experienced during a period of 24 h after each injection by means of a visual analogue scale (VAS). At administration (within 5 min), severe to moderate pain was experienced in 70.0% of subjects injected by the conventional syringe, whereas only 21.7% of subjects treated with the pen device experienced pain. This difference was highly significant (P </= 0.001). The overall pain score (VAS) was low but significantly lower in subjects treated with the pen device (P </= 0.01). In this study, follitropin-beta administered by the pen device was far less painful than follitropin-alpha administered by conventional syringe. The pen device is the first multiple-use device available for the self-administration of recombinant FSH (rFSH) during ovarian stimulation for assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Craenmehr
- Kendle, Bolognalaan 40, 3584 CJ Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Katzorke T, Verhoeven HC, Blechschmidt J, Köhler M, Kelly E. Follitropin-alfa for ovarian stimulation during assisted reproduction treatment: a national collaborative study. Reprod Biomed Online 2003; 3:98-103. [PMID: 12513870 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)61975-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This prospective, observational study investigated the efficacy and tolerability of follitropin-alfa for ovarian stimulation in routine clinical practice. The study involved a large, unselected population of women. Stimulation parameters and treatment outcomes were documented for 767 patients who underwent a total of 1098 cycles of follitropin-alfa according to the clinic's standard protocol. Stimulation lasted a median of 11 days and used a cumulative dosage of 28 ampoules of 75 IU follitropin-alfa. Pituitary down-regulation was used in 81.2% of cycles, predominantly by the long protocol. The desired ovarian development was achieved in 99.5% of cycles and embryo transfer took place in 86.9% of cycles, with an average of 2.5 embryos transferred. The clinical pregnancy rate was 39.5% and the miscarriage rate was 12.2%. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome was observed in only 12 cycles (1.1%). In conclusion, follitropin-alfa is effective and well tolerated for ovarian stimulation during routine clinical practice.
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Papageorgiou T, Guibert J, Goffinet F, Patrat C, Fulla Y, Janssens Y, Zorn JR. Percentile curves of serum estradiol levels during controlled ovarian stimulation in 905 cycles stimulated with recombinant FSH show that high estradiol is not detrimental to IVF outcome. Hum Reprod 2002; 17:2846-50. [PMID: 12407037 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/17.11.2846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND High, normal and poor responders are usually defined by reference to subjectively selected estradiol E2 levels at days 4-6 and the day of hCG administration (d-hCG). The purpose of this study was to use E2 percentile curves from day 5 until d-hCG to determine high, normal and poor responders, and to predict IVF outcome. METHODS In this retrospective study, 762 patients underwent 905 cycles with a GnRH agonist/recombinant FSH short protocol. They were divided into three groups according to their age. Percentile E2 curves according to E2 levels were plotted. High responders were those patients with E2 levels above the 90th percentile, normal responders had E2 between the 10th and 90th percentiles, and poor responders had E2 below the 10th percentile. RESULTS IVF outcome, expressed as number of oocytes, total embryos obtained and number of high grade embryos, was significantly better for patients with E2 above the 90th percentile at d-hCG for the three age groups and at day 5 for group A (<35 years). Pregnancy rates were higher for high responders, but the difference did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS Percentile curves can be useful in controlled ovarian stimulation cycles to define high, normal and poor responders, and also to predict IVF outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theocharis Papageorgiou
- Service Gynécologie-Obstétrique III, Clinique Universitaire Baudelocque, Hôpital Cochin, 123 bd Port-Royal, Paris 75014, France
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Ravhon A, Lavery S, Aurell R, Trew G, Margara R, Winston R. Clinical experience with recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and urinary FSH: a retrospective case- controlled analysis. Fertil Steril 2001; 75:920-5. [PMID: 11334903 DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(01)01684-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the efficacy and efficiency of recombinant FSH (rFSH) and urinary FSH (uFSH). DESIGN Retrospective case controlled analysis. SETTING An assisted reproduction unit at a university center. PATIENT(S) 1388 patients undergoing long protocol in vitro fertilization/embryo transfer (IVF-ET) using buserelin acetate from day 2 of the cycle and either rFSH (follitropin beta) (n = 694) or uFSH (n = 694) with equal number of ampules started (rFSH: 50 IU, uFSH: 75 IU). INTERVENTION(S) Patients were included in the two groups of treatment after matching for similarity in age and type of treatment (IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injection). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Total dose of FSH, ovarian response, and IVF outcome. RESULT(S) Patients who received uFSH experienced a shorter period of stimulation, and a higher number of oocytes were collected. The total FSH used was lower in the rFSH group, and they required a lower FSH dose per oocyte retrieved. The implantation and pregnancy rates were similar between the uFSH and rFSH groups. In both groups implantation and pregnancy rates were higher when intracytoplasmic sperm injection was performed as compared with IVF. CONCLUSION(S) The implantation and pregnancy rates are similar when either rFSH or uFSH is used (when compared on an ampule-to-ampule basis, rFSH: 50 IU, and uFSH: 75 IU). However, a significantly lower total FSH dose was used in the rFSH group with a lower FSH dose per oocyte collected.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ravhon
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Science, Imperial College School of Medicine, Hammersmith Hospital, London, United Kingdom.
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Hugues JN, Bry-Gauillard H, Bständig B, Uzan M, Cedrin-Durnerin I. Comparison of recombinant and urinary follicle-stimulating hormone preparations in short-term gonadotropin releasing hormone agonist protocol for in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer. J Assist Reprod Genet 2001; 18:191-6. [PMID: 11432109 PMCID: PMC3455363 DOI: 10.1023/a:1009408029509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the efficiency and efficacy of two recombinant human FSH (r-FSH) and urinary (u-FSH) preparations in patients undergoing superovulation for IVF-ET using a short-term gonadotropin releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-a) (Triptorelin) protocol. METHODS A total of 88 women undergoing IVF-ET were included in this prospective study. They were randomized to receive u-FSH (150 IU/d), follitropin-alpha (100 IU/d), or follitropin-beta (100 IU/d) for 2 days, and dosages were subsequently adjusted according to the ovarian response. RESULTS The FSH dose required for the overall stimulation was significantly lower in patients treated with r-FSH than in those treated with u-FSH while serum FSH values were higher in the latter group. There were no statistically significant differences in ovarian response and IVF outcome between r-FSH preparations. CONCLUSIONS Recombinant FSH preparations have a higher efficiency than urinary ones in patients undergoing IVF-ET using a short-term GnRH-a protocol. In this situation, the two recombinant follitropins have comparable effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- J N Hugues
- Reproductive Medecine Unit, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Paris XIII, France.
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Horsman G, Talbot JA, McLoughlin JD, Lambert A, Robertson WR. A biological, immunological and physico-chemical comparison of the current clinical batches of the recombinant FSH preparations Gonal-F and Puregon. Hum Reprod 2000; 15:1898-902. [PMID: 10966982 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/15.9.1898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The immunopotency and in-vitro biopotency of clinical batches of Gonal-F((R)) and Puregon((R)) (recombinant human follicle stimulating hormones) were compared and their carbohydrate chains investigated for charge heterogeneity and internal carbohydrate complexity. Immunopotency (IU/pmol) for both Gonal-F and Puregon was 0.35 +/- 0.01 and biopotency (ED(50), pmol/l) was similar, being 7.3 +/- 0.6 and 5.4 +/- 0.2 respectively. Charge distributions were essentially the same with no difference either in median isoelectric point (pI) (between 4.26 and 4.50), or in the bulk of material fractionated between pI 4 and 5 (66.0 +/- 1.8% Gonal-F and 72.0 +/- 1.8% Puregon). However, there were minor differences in charge at extremes of pI, Gonal-F being slightly more acidic: 18.2% Gonal-F versus 9.8% Puregon at pI 3.5-4.0 (P: = 0.03) and 6.7% Gonal-F versus 10.7% Puregon at pI 5.0-5.5 (P: = 0.03). Carbohydrate complexity was the same: 9.3 versus 10.9 (complex), 76.6 versus 78.6 (intermediate) and 14.1 versus 10.5% (simple). In summary, Gonal-F and Puregon have similar immunopotency, in-vitro biopotency and internal carbohydrate complexity, differing slightly in charge heterogeneity, Gonal-F having more acidic glycoforms. We conclude them to be intrinsically very similar, expecting no difference in clinical efficacy on the basis of respective structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Horsman
- Departments of Clinical Biochemistry and Diabetes and Endocrinology, Hope Hospital, Salford, M6 8HD, UK.
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Salha O, Balen AH. New concepts in superovulation strategies for assisted conception treatments. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2000; 12:201-6. [PMID: 10873121 DOI: 10.1097/00001703-200006000-00007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Controlled ovarian stimulation for in-vitro fertilization treatment using preparations that contain follicle-stimulating hormone has been routinely performed since the 1980s. The early preparations were urinary human menopausal gonadotrophins, containing follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone. In the early 1990s, highly purified follicle-stimulating hormone preparations were introduced because of a desire to provide drugs for subcutaneous administration with a lower risk of allergic reactions. Intensive research resulted in the discovery of recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone, which is more potent that the highly purified follicle-stimulating hormone, resulting in significantly higher clinical pregnancy rates. The two recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone preparations available appear to be equally effective and provide comparable results. Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone antagonists, which have recently been introduced, appear to be effective in preventing a premature rise in luteinizing hormone during ovarian stimulation for in-vitro fertilization, as well as improved response to lower doses of gonadotrophins. It is envisaged that the availability of recombinant gonadotrophins and gonadotrophin-releasing hormone antagonists will ultimately lead to shorter, cheaper and safer treatments, using reduced dosages.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Salha
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Leeds General Infirmary, UK
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