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Dovolou E, Nanas I, Giannoulis T, Fytsilli A, Ntemka A, Anifandis G, Tsakmakidis I, Amiridis GS. The effects of a glyphosate-based herbicide on the bovine gametes during an in vitro embryo production model. Environ Pollut 2024; 350:123967. [PMID: 38631452 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Roundup® (R), while it is the most used herbicide globally, and its residues are ubiquitous in urban and suburban areas, its impact on vertebrates' safety remains highly debated. Here, in three in vitro experiments, we investigated the effects of a very low dose (1 ppm) of R on the fertilization capacity and embryo development in cattle. In the first experiment, frozen-thawed bull semen exposed to R for 1 h exhibited reduced motility parameters but unaffected fertilization ability. However, after in vitro fertilization, the rates of embryo formation were significantly lower compared to the untreated controls. In the second experiment, oocytes exposed to R during in vitro maturation showed reduced cleavage rates, and the embryo yield on days 7, 8, and 9 of embryo culture was significantly lower than that of the controls. In the third experiment, oocytes were matured in the presence of R and in a medium containing both R and Zinc, chosen to offer antioxidant protection to the oocytes. Day-7 blastocysts were analyzed for the expression of genes associated with oxidative stress, apoptosis, and epigenetic reprogramming. Exposure to R markedly suppressed embryo formation rates compared to the controls. The combination of R with Zinc restored the blastocyst yield, which on days 8 and 9 was comparable to that of the controls and higher than the groups exposed only to R on all days. The gene expression analysis revealed that R promotes oxidative stress development, triggers apoptosis, and induces epigenetic changes in developing embryos, while zinc presence alleviates these adverse effects of R. These findings imply that even at very low doses, R could be highly toxic, leading to functional abnormalities in both gametes, potentially affecting fertility in both genders.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Dovolou
- Department of Animal Science, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece.
| | - I Nanas
- Department of Obstetrics & Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
| | - T Giannoulis
- Department of Animal Science, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - A Fytsilli
- Department of Biochemistry & Biotechnology, Laboratory of Genetics, Comparative and Evolutionary Biology, Larissa, Greece
| | - A Ntemka
- Department of Animal Science, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece; Clinic of Farm Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - G Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, ART Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - I Tsakmakidis
- Clinic of Farm Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - G S Amiridis
- Department of Obstetrics & Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Thessaly, Karditsa, Greece
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2
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Sfakianoudis K, Zikopoulos A, Grigoriadis S, Seretis N, Maziotis E, Anifandis G, Xystra P, Kostoulas C, Giougli U, Pantos K, Simopoulou M, Georgiou I. The Role of One-Carbon Metabolism and Methyl Donors in Medically Assisted Reproduction: A Narrative Review of the Literature. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4977. [PMID: 38732193 PMCID: PMC11084717 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
One-carbon (1-C) metabolic deficiency impairs homeostasis, driving disease development, including infertility. It is of importance to summarize the current evidence regarding the clinical utility of 1-C metabolism-related biomolecules and methyl donors, namely, folate, betaine, choline, vitamin B12, homocysteine (Hcy), and zinc, as potential biomarkers, dietary supplements, and culture media supplements in the context of medically assisted reproduction (MAR). A narrative review of the literature was conducted in the PubMed/Medline database. Diet, ageing, and the endocrine milieu of individuals affect both 1-C metabolism and fertility status. In vitro fertilization (IVF) techniques, and culture conditions in particular, have a direct impact on 1-C metabolic activity in gametes and embryos. Critical analysis indicated that zinc supplementation in cryopreservation media may be a promising approach to reducing oxidative damage, while female serum homocysteine levels may be employed as a possible biomarker for predicting IVF outcomes. Nonetheless, the level of evidence is low, and future studies are needed to verify these data. One-carbon metabolism-related processes, including redox defense and epigenetic regulation, may be compromised in IVF-derived embryos. The study of 1-C metabolism may lead the way towards improving MAR efficiency and safety and ensuring the lifelong health of MAR infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Sfakianoudis
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (K.P.)
| | - Athanasios Zikopoulos
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Treliske, Truro TR1 3LJ, UK
| | - Sokratis Grigoriadis
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (P.X.)
| | - Nikolaos Seretis
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
| | - Evangelos Maziotis
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (P.X.)
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larisa, Greece;
| | - Paraskevi Xystra
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (P.X.)
| | - Charilaos Kostoulas
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
| | - Urania Giougli
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
| | - Konstantinos Pantos
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (K.P.)
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (P.X.)
| | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
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3
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Antonouli S, Di Nisio V, Messini C, Samara M, Salumets A, Daponte A, Anifandis G. Sperm plasma membrane ion transporters and male fertility potential: A perspective under the prism of cryopreservation. Cryobiology 2024; 114:104845. [PMID: 38184269 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2023.104845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Intracellular calcium homeostasis plays a crucial role in spermatozoa by regulating physiological functions associated with sperm quality and male fertility potential. Intracellular calcium fine balance in the sperm cytoplasm is strictly dependent on sperm surface channels including the CatSper channel. CatSpers' role is to ensure the influx of extracellular calcium, while intracellular pH alkalinization serves as a stimulus for the activation of several channels, including CatSper. Overall, the generation of intracellular calcium spikes through CatSper is essential for fertilization-related processes, such as sperm hyperactivation, acrosome reaction, egg chemotaxis, and zona pellucida penetration. Multiple lines of evidence suggest that disruption in the close interaction among ions, pH, and CatSper could impair male fertility potential. In contemporary times, the growing reliance on Medically Assisted Reproduction procedures underscores the impact of cryopreservation on gametes. In fact, a large body of literature raises concerns about the cryo-damages provoked by the freeze-thawing processes, that can affect the plasma membrane integrity, thus the structure of pivotal ion channels, and the fine regulation of both intracellular calcium and pH. This review aims to provide an overview of the importance of the CatSper channel in sperm quality and further fertilization potential. Additionally, it addresses the emerging issue of cryopreservation's impact on the functionality of this sperm channel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevastiani Antonouli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece.
| | - Valentina Di Nisio
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Christina Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece.
| | - Maria Samara
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece.
| | - Andres Salumets
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden; Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia; Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia.
| | - Alexandros Daponte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece.
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece.
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Chatzimeletiou K, Fleva A, Nikolopoulos TT, Markopoulou M, Zervakakou G, Papanikolaou K, Anifandis G, Gianakou A, Grimbizis G. Evaluation of Sperm DNA Fragmentation Using Two Different Methods: TUNEL via Fluorescence Microscopy, and Flow Cytometry. Medicina (Kaunas) 2023; 59:1313. [PMID: 37512124 PMCID: PMC10384605 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59071313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Sperm DNA fragmentation refers to any break in one or both of the strands of DNA in the head of a sperm. The most widely used methodologies for assessing sperm DNA fragmentation are the sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA), the sperm chromatin dispersion assay (SCD), the single-cell gel electrophoresis assay (SCGE-comet), and the terminal-deoxynucleotidyl-transferase (TdT)-mediated dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL) assay. The aim of this study was to compare the efficiency and sensitivity of the analysis of sperm DNA fragmentation using TUNEL via fluorescence microscopy, and flow cytometry. Materials and Methods: Semen samples were collected and analyzed for standard characteristics using light microscopy, and for sperm DNA fragmentation using both TUNEL via fluorescence microscopy, and flow cytometry. Results: There were no significant differences in the values of the sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) obtained when the analysis was performed using TUNEL or flow cytometry (p = 0.543). Spearman's correlation analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between sperm motility (%) and sperm DNA fragmentation (p < 0.01), as well as between sperm concentration and sperm DNA fragmentation (p < 0.05). The Mann-Whitney U test showed no significant difference in the DFI among couples with repeated implantation failure (RIF) and miscarriages (p = 0.352). Conclusions: Both methods (TUNEL via fluorescence microscopy, and flow cytometry) have a high efficiency and sensitivity in accurately detecting sperm DNA fragmentation, and can be effectively used to assess male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Chatzimeletiou
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 'Papageorgiou' General Hospital, Aristotle University Medical School, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Alexandra Fleva
- Department of Immunology and Histocompatibility, 'Papageorgiou' General Hospital, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Theodoros-Thomas Nikolopoulos
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 'Papageorgiou' General Hospital, Aristotle University Medical School, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Maria Markopoulou
- Department of Immunology and Histocompatibility, 'Papageorgiou' General Hospital, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | | | - George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41200 Larisa, Greece
| | - Anastasia Gianakou
- Department of Immunology and Histocompatibility, 'Papageorgiou' General Hospital, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Grigoris Grimbizis
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 'Papageorgiou' General Hospital, Aristotle University Medical School, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece
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5
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Anagnostou M, Samara M, Thodou E, Messini CI, Dafopoulos K, Chatzimeletiou K, Dovolou E, Daponte A, Koukoulis G, Anifandis G. The impact of cryopreservation on both sperm HPV-negative and positive subtypes. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2023:1-8. [PMID: 37178126 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2023.2198069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
It is well known that various human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes are present in semen specimens. Also, it has been demonstrated that sperm parameters are negatively affected when HPV infection is present in the sperm sample. Besides all these, the effect of cryopreservation on HPV sensitivity and resistance is not known. The aim of the present study is to evaluate first the prevalence of HPV and secondly to elucidate whether cryopreservation of sperm HPV-positive samples has any effect on the viability of HPV. For this purpose, a cohort of 78 sperm specimens was used from a respective number of patients. After giving informed consent, semen analysis was performed. Each sperm sample was divided into four equal aliquots. The first one (fresh) was evaluated for the prevalence of HPV, while the other three aliquots were cryopreserved by adding an equal quantity of cryoprotectant and plunged into the LN. Each of the three aliquots was thawed 3, 6, and 12 months later, respectively, so as to evaluate whether there is a time-resistance period of HPV prevalence. HPV infection was found to be in eleven sperm samples, demonstrating a 14.1% (11/78) HPV prevalence. Among the HPV-positive samples, six of them were high-risk and the remaining were low-risk genotypes. Moreover, the high-risk fresh samples demonstrated higher motility values than the low-risk samples (60% ± 2.7 vs 45.6% ± 3.7, p < .05), while semen volume in the high-risk samples was significantly lower than the respective volume in the low-risk samples (2.26 ± 0.2ml vs 3.5 ± 0.6ml, p < .05). Interestingly, cryopreservation of the HPV-positive samples resulted in the sustainability and time-resistance of HPV in all high-risk HPV-positive samples, something that was not the case with the low-risk HPV-positive samples. Conclusively, sperm samples infected with high-risk HPV, demonstrate lower sperm parameters and time-resistance activity during cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Anagnostou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
- Department of Pathology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Maria Samara
- Department of Pathology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Eleni Thodou
- Department of Pathology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Christina I Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Dafopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Katerina Chatzimeletiou
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Unit for Human Reproduction, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Aristotelian University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Eleni Dovolou
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Science, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros Daponte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - George Koukoulis
- Department of Pathology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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6
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Antonouli S, Di Nisio V, Messini C, Daponte A, Rajender S, Anifandis G. A comprehensive review and update on human fertility cryopreservation methods and tools. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1151254. [PMID: 37143497 PMCID: PMC10151698 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1151254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The broad conceptualization of fertility preservation and restoration has become already a major concern in the modern western world since a large number of individuals often face it in the everyday life. Driven by different health conditions and/or social reasons, a variety of patients currently rely on routinely and non-routinely applied assisted reproductive technologies, and mostly on the possibility to cryopreserve gametes and/or gonadal tissues for expanding their reproductive lifespan. This review embraces the data present in human-focused literature regarding the up-to-date methodologies and tools contemporarily applied in IVF laboratories' clinical setting of the oocyte, sperm, and embryo cryopreservation and explores the latest news and issues related to the optimization of methods used in ovarian and testicular tissue cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevastiani Antonouli
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Valentina Di Nisio
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christina Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
| | - Alexandros Daponte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
| | - Singh Rajender
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
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7
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Anifandis G, Sutovsky P, Turek PJ, Chavez SL, Kunej T, Messini CI, Schon SB, Mavroforou A, Adashi EY, Krawetz SA. Bioethics in human embryology: the double-edged sword of embryo research. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2022; 68:169-179. [PMID: 35380489 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2022.2052771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
There has been a significant increase in the use of assisted reproductive therapies (ARTs) over the past several decades, allowing many couples with infertility to conceive. Despite the achievements in this field, a mounting body of evidence concerning the epigenetic risks associated with ART interventions such as ovarian hormonal stimulation, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and in vitro culture (IVC) of oocytes and embryos has also emerged. Induced development of multiple follicles, the IVC media itself, and extended culture may alter the epigenome of both gametes and embryos, resulting in yet to be fully understood developmental, postnatal, and adult life health consequences. Investigators have attempted to decipher the molecular mechanisms mediating ART-induced epigenetic changes using either human samples or animal models with some success. As research in this field continues to expand, the ethical responsibilities of embryologists and researchers have become critically important. Here, we briefly discuss the ethical aspects of ART research, concentrating on the constraints arising from the perceived 'unnaturalness' of many of these procedures. Secondly, we focus on the bioethics and morality of human embryo research in general and how ethically acceptable model systems may be used to mimic early human embryogenesis. Lastly, we review the 14-day culture limit of human embryos and the notion that this rule could be considered of taken into account using new technologies and cues from animal models. The 'black box' of early post-implantation embryogenesis might be revealed using embryo models. As long as this distinct moral line has been drawn and closely followed, we should not fear scientific growth in embryo research. Although in vitro fertilization (IVF) is ethically acceptable, research with human embryos to improve its success raises serious ethical concerns that are in need of constant revisiting.Glossary index: Moral status: the ascription of obligations and rights to embryos on the basis of sentience; Sentience: the capacity of the developing embryo to experience feelings and sensations, such as the awareness of pain; Ectogenesis: the growth of the embryo in an artificial environment outside the mother's body.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ART Unit, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
| | - Peter Sutovsky
- Division of Animal Sciences and the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | | | - Shawn L Chavez
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Molecular & Medical Genetics, and Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Tanja Kunej
- Biotechnical Faculty, Department of Animal Science, University of Ljubljana, Domzale, Slovenia
| | - Christina I Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ART Unit, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
| | - Samantha B Schon
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Anna Mavroforou
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Nursing, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
| | - Eli Y Adashi
- Center for Prisoner Health and Human Rights, The Warren Alpert Medical School, Division of Biology and Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Stephen A Krawetz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Molecular Medicine & Genetics, C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
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8
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Chatzimeletiou K, Fleva A, Sioga A, Georgiou I, Nikolopoulos TT, Markopoulou M, Petrogiannis N, Anifandis G, Patrikiou A, Kolibianakis E, Giannakou A, Grimbizis G. Effects of Different Drug Therapies and COVID-19 mRNA Vaccination on Semen Quality in a Man with Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Case Report. Medicina (Kaunas) 2022; 58:173. [PMID: 35208497 PMCID: PMC8875133 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58020173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a condition that affects 0.1% to 0.5% of the adult population. The aim of this case report was to investigate the possible effects of the drugs taken for treatment of AS as well as mRNA vaccination for COVID-19 on semen quality by performing a highly detailed analysis. Materials and Methods: Sperm characteristics were examined by light microscopy, DNA fragmentation (DFI) was analysed by flow cytometry and morphology was evaluated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Results: Semen analysis under therapy with (1) celecoxib and sulphasalazine showed: concentration 47 million/mL, 53% progressive motility, 7% normal morphology and 9.6% DFI, (2) Golimumab and before mRNA Vaccination showed: concentration 108 million/mL, 82% progressive motility, 1% normal morphology and 7.6% DFI, and (3) Golimumab and after 3 doses of mRNA Vaccination showed: concentration 142 million/mL, 85% progressive motility, 1% normal morphology and 6.8% DFI. TEM revealed head, neck and tail abnormalities, as well as the presence of cells with incomplete spermiogenesis white cells and phagocytes in the sample under therapy with celecoxib and sulphasalazine. Golimumab treatment lead to an increased incidence of elongated heads but in general reduced inflammation as no white cells were evident in TEM. Conclusion: The anti-inflamatory drugs celecoxib and sulphasalazine had no adverse effect on sperm quality as all parameters were within normal limits and the patient achieved under that treatment 2 pregnancies following natural conception that lead to the birth of a healthy boy and girl respectively. Anti-TNFa treatment with Golimumab exerted a negative effect on morphology but not on concentration, motility and DFI. After 3 doses of mRNA Vaccination, sperm concentration increased while motility, morphology and DFI remained similar to the values before vaccination suggesting no negative effect of the mRNA vaccine for COVID-19 on sperm quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Chatzimeletiou
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, ‘Papageorgiou’ General Hospital, Aristotle University Medical School, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece; (T.-T.N.); (A.P.); (E.K.); (G.G.)
| | - Alexandra Fleva
- Department of Immunology and Histocompatibility, ‘Papageorgiou’ General Hospital, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece; (A.F.); (M.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Antonia Sioga
- Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, Aristotle University Medical School, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Ioannina and Medical Genetics and Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Theodoros-Thomas Nikolopoulos
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, ‘Papageorgiou’ General Hospital, Aristotle University Medical School, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece; (T.-T.N.); (A.P.); (E.K.); (G.G.)
| | - Maria Markopoulou
- Department of Immunology and Histocompatibility, ‘Papageorgiou’ General Hospital, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece; (A.F.); (M.M.); (A.G.)
| | | | - George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41200 Larisa, Greece;
| | - Antonios Patrikiou
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, ‘Papageorgiou’ General Hospital, Aristotle University Medical School, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece; (T.-T.N.); (A.P.); (E.K.); (G.G.)
| | - Efstratios Kolibianakis
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, ‘Papageorgiou’ General Hospital, Aristotle University Medical School, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece; (T.-T.N.); (A.P.); (E.K.); (G.G.)
| | - Anastasia Giannakou
- Department of Immunology and Histocompatibility, ‘Papageorgiou’ General Hospital, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece; (A.F.); (M.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Grigoris Grimbizis
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, ‘Papageorgiou’ General Hospital, Aristotle University Medical School, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece; (T.-T.N.); (A.P.); (E.K.); (G.G.)
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9
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Anifandis G, Samara M, Simopoulou M, Messini CI, Chatzimeletiou K, Thodou E, Daponte A, Georgiou I. Insights into the Role of Telomeres in Human Embryological Parameters. Opinions Regarding IVF. J Dev Biol 2021; 9:jdb9040049. [PMID: 34842724 PMCID: PMC8628962 DOI: 10.3390/jdb9040049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomeres promote genome integrity by protecting chromosome ends from the activation of the DNA damage response and protecting chromosomes from the loss of coding sequences due to the end replication problem. Telomere length (TL) is progressively shortened as age progresses, thus resulting in cellular senescence. Therefore, TL is in strong adverse linear correlation with aging. Mounting evidence supports the notion that telomeres and male/female infertility are in a close relationship, posing the biology of telomeres as a hot topic in the era of human-assisted reproduction. Specifically, the length of sperm telomeres is gradually increasing as men get older, while the telomere length of the oocytes seems not to follow similar patterns with that of sperm. Nonetheless, the telomere length of the embryos during the cleavage stages seems to have a paternal origin, but the telomere length can be further extended by telomerase activity during the blastocyst stage. The latter has been proposed as a new molecular biomarker with strong predictive value regarding male infertility. As far as the role of telomeres in assisted reproduction, the data is limited but the length of telomeres in both gametes seems to be affected mainly by the cause of infertility rather than the assisted reproductive therapy (ART) procedure itself. The present review aims to shed more light into the role of telomeres in human embryological parameters, including gametes and embryos and also presents opinions regarding the association between telomeres and in vitro fertilization (IVF).
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Affiliation(s)
- George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larisa, Greece; (C.I.M.); (A.D.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Maria Samara
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larisa, Greece; (M.S.); (E.T.)
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Christina I. Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larisa, Greece; (C.I.M.); (A.D.)
| | - Katerina Chatzimeletiou
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotelian University of Thessaloniki, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Eleni Thodou
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larisa, Greece; (M.S.); (E.T.)
| | - Alexandros Daponte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larisa, Greece; (C.I.M.); (A.D.)
| | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
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10
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Anifandis G, Taylor TH, Messini CI, Chatzimeletiou K, Daponte A, Ioannou D, Tempest HG. The Impact of SARS-CoV-2 on Sperm Cryostorage, Theoretical or Real Risk? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 57:medicina57090946. [PMID: 34577870 PMCID: PMC8467274 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57090946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cryopreservation of human gametes and embryos as well as human reproductive tissues has been characterized as an essential process and aspect of assisted reproductive technology (ART). Notably, sperm cryopreservation is a fundamental aspect of cryopreservation in oncological patients or patients undergoing gonadotoxic treatment. Given that there is a risk of contamination or cross-contamination, either theoretical or real, during the procedures of cryopreservation and cryostorage, both the European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) have provided updated guidelines for preventing or reducing the contamination risk of sexually transmitted viruses. Given the ongoing and worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, there is considerable interest in what measures should be taken to mitigate SARS-CoV-2 contamination during cryopreservation and cryostorage of semen samples. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is the virus that causes COVID-19, and whose transmission and infection is mainly aerosol-mediated. Several ART professional societies, including ESHRE and ASRM have proposed measures to mitigate the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Whether the proposed safety directives are enough to mitigate the possible SARS-CoV-2-contamination of sperm samples during cryopreservation or whether the policies should be re-evaluated will be discussed in this review. Additionally, insights regarding the possible impact of COVID-19 vaccination on the safety of sperm cryopreservation will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41200 Larisa, Greece; (C.I.M.); (A.D.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-6975865861
| | - Tyl H Taylor
- Reproductive Endocrinology Associates of Charlotte, Charlotte, NC 28207, USA;
| | - Christina I Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41200 Larisa, Greece; (C.I.M.); (A.D.)
| | - Katerina Chatzimeletiou
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Unit for Human Reproduction, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Aristotelian University of Thessaloniki, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Alexandros Daponte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41200 Larisa, Greece; (C.I.M.); (A.D.)
| | - Dimitrios Ioannou
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA; (D.I.); (H.G.T.)
| | - Helen G Tempest
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA; (D.I.); (H.G.T.)
- Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
- College of Medicine, Roseman University of Health Sciences, Las Vegas, NV 89135, USA
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11
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Messinis IE, Messini CI, Anifandis G, Daponte A. Response to: Premature ovulation; is any risk small enough to take when avoidable? Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 43:580. [PMID: 34373206 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis E Messinis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece.
| | - Christina I Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros Daponte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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12
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Messini CI, Vasilaki A, Korona E, Anifandis G, Katsiani E, Georgoulias P, Dafopoulos K, Garas A, Daponte A, Messinis IE. Effect of adiponectin on estradiol and progesterone secretion from human luteinized granulosa cells in vitro. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2021; 67:374-382. [PMID: 34148437 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2021.1929559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Ιnformation on the role of adiponectin in human ovarian steroidogenesis is limited. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of different doses of adiponectin on the secretion of estradiol and progesterone by human luteinized granulosa cells in culture. Granulosa cells, obtained from women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment, were pre-incubated for 24 h and then cultured for 48 h. Adiponectin was used in 3 doses, i.e., 5, 10, and 100 μg/ml alone and in combinations with FSH (10 and 100 ng/ml). Estradiol and progesterone were measured by radioimmunoassays in culture supernatants at 24 h and 48 h. Adiponectin after 48 h of culture stimulated the secretion of estradiol and, to a lesser extent, progesterone in a dose-dependent manner. FSH showed a variable effect on steroidogenesis. However, when the low dose FSH was combined with adiponectin, estradiol, and progesterone secretion were increased disproportionally to the dose of adiponectin. With the high dose FSH, the positive effect of adiponectin on FSH-induced estradiol secretion was less pronounced, while the effect on progesterone secretion was negligible. This study shows for the first time a stimulatory effect of adiponectin on the secretion of estradiol and progesterone by human luteinized granulosa cells in vitro. It is suggested that adiponectin plays a paracrine role in human ovarian steroidogenesis by sensitizing the granulosa cells to FSH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina I Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Anna Vasilaki
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Evangelia Korona
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Eleni Katsiani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Georgoulias
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Dafopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Antonios Garas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros Daponte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Ioannis E Messinis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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13
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Anifandis G, Messini CI, Simopoulou M, Sveronis G, Garas A, Daponte A, Messinis IE. SARS-CoV-2 vs. human gametes, embryos and cryopreservation. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2021; 67:260-269. [PMID: 34060390 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2021.1922537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, is an unprecedented global situation, and all countries have adopted their own measurements to mitigate the spread of the virus in the first as well as in the subsequent waves of infection. All measures, especially in the first wave of the pandemic, were in combination with recommendations provided by professional and scientific organizations. Similar measures were applied to specific procedures, such as the management of infertility, including in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) treatments. Although there is no clear scientific evidence yet that the SARS-CoV-2 may exert negative effects on IVF outcome, especially at the early stages, several clinical reports indicate that the virus may impact male fertility through specific receptors presented at the somatic cells of the testis and used by the virus in order to gain entry to the respective cells. Nevertheless, it is not unreasonable to suspect that the virus may affect sperm function as well as oocyte performance directly through specific receptors or indirectly through other signaling pathways. Despite the good practice of IVF laboratory techniques, culture media may also be contaminated during equilibration when airborne virus's particles can contaminate culture media from an already infected embryology area or staff. Furthermore, although there is no clinical evidence, liquid nitrogen could be a route of infection for gametes and embryos when it has been contaminated during production or transportation. Therefore, cryopreservation of gametes and embryos must be virus-free. This communication aims to provide some aspects of the possible impact of the virus on gametes and embryos and how it may affect the cryopreservation procedures.Abbreviations: ACE2: angiotensin- converting enzyme 2; ART: assisted reproductive technology; ASRM: American Society for Reproductive Medicine; CDC: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; COVID-19: coronavirus disease 2019; ESHRE: European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology; ET: embryo transfer; FSH: follicle stimulating hormone; IFFS: International Federation of Fertility Societies; IVF: in vitro fertilization; LH: luteinizing hormone; LN: liquid nitrogen; SARS-CoV-2: severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2; T: testosterone; WHO: World Health Organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Christina I Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Physiology, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - George Sveronis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Antonios Garas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros Daponte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Ioannis E Messinis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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14
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Anifandis G, Tempest HG, Oliva R, Swanson GM, Simopoulou M, Easley CA, Primig M, Messini CI, Turek PJ, Sutovsky P, Ory SJ, Krawetz SA. COVID-19 and human reproduction: A pandemic that packs a serious punch. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2021; 67:3-23. [PMID: 33719829 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2020.1855271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a worldwide health emergency that has impacted 188 countries at last count. The rapid community transmission and relatively high mortality rates with COVID-19 in modern times are relatively unique features of this flu pandemic and have resulted in an unparalleled global health crisis. SARS-CoV-2, being a respiratory virus, mainly affects the lungs, but is capable of infecting other vital organs, such as brain, heart and kidney. Emerging evidence suggests that the virus also targets male and female reproductive organs that express its main receptor ACE2, although it is as yet unclear if this has any implications for human fertility. Furthermore, professional bodies have recommended discontinuing fertility services during the pandemic such that reproductive services have also been affected. Although increased safety measures have helped to mitigate the propagation of COVID-19 in a number of countries, it seems that there is no predictable timeline to containment of the virus, a goal likely to remain elusive until an effective vaccine becomes available and widely distributed across the globe. In parallel, research on reproduction has been postponed for obvious reasons, while diagnostic tests that detect the virus or antibodies against it are of vital importance to support public health policies, such as social distancing and our obligation to wear masks in public spaces. This review aims to provide an overview of critical research and ethics issues that have been continuously emerging in the field of reproductive medicine as the COVID-19 pandemic tragically unfolds.Abbreviations: ACE2: angiotensin- converting enzyme 2; ART: Assisted reproductive technology; ASRM: American Society for Reproductive Medicine; CCR9: C-C Motif Chemokine Receptor 9; CDC: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; COVID-19: Coronavirus disease 2019; Ct: Cycle threshold; CXCR6: C-X-C Motif Chemokine Receptor 6; ELISA: enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay; ESHRE: European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology; ET: Embryo transfer; FSH: Follicle Stimulating Hormone; FFPE: formalin fixed paraffin embedded; FYCO1: FYVE And Coiled-Coil Domain Autophagy Adaptor 1; IFFS: International Federation of Fertility Societies; IUI: Intrauterine insemination; IVF: In vitro fertilization; LH: Luteinizing Hormone; LZTFL1: Leucine Zipper Transcription Factor Like 1; MAR: medically assisted reproduction services; MERS: Middle East Respiratory syndrome; NGS: Next Generation Sequencing; ORF: Open Reading Frame; PPE: personal protective equipment; RE: RNA Element; REDa: RNA Element Discovery algorithm; RT-PCR: Reverse=trascriptase transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction; SARS: Severe acute respiratory syndrome; SARS-CoV-2: Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2; SLC6A20: Solute Carrier Family 6 Member 20; SMS: Single Molecule Sequencing; T: Testosterone; TMPRSS2: transmembrane serine protease 2; WHO: World Health Organization; XCR1: X-C Motif Chemokine Receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
| | - Helen G Tempest
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA.,Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Rafael Oliva
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat De Barcelona, and Hospital Clinic from Barcelona, Spain
| | - Grace M Swanson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA.,Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Experimental Physiology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece, Athens, Greece
| | - Charles A Easley
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.,Regenerative Bioscience Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Michael Primig
- Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut De Recherche En Santé, Environnement Et Travail), Rennes, France
| | - Christina I Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
| | - Paul J Turek
- It is a private Clinic, The Turek Clinic, Beverly Hills, CA, USA
| | - Peter Sutovsky
- Division of Animal Sciences and the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Steve J Ory
- It is a private Clinic, IVF Florida Reproductive Institutes, Margate, FL, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Stephen A Krawetz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA.,Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Center of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
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15
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Messinis IE, Messini CI, Anifandis G, Daponte A. Exogenous progesterone for LH surge prevention is redundant in ovarian stimulation protocols. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 42:694-697. [PMID: 33583700 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
During ovarian stimulation for IVF-embryo transfer treatment, a premature LH surge may lead to progesterone elevation that disrupts endometrial maturation and affects the probability of pregnancy following fresh embryo transfer. Preventing this LH surge and progesterone elevation using gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues is considered a standard practice. The same policy applies to cycles in which the 'freeze-all' protocol has been selected from the outset (e.g. donors), but the need for this has not been discussed. Moreover, in 'freeze-all' cycles, exogenous progesterone administration tends to replace GnRH antagonists, without reducing efficacy after embryo transfer in frozen-thawed cycles. Nevertheless, as exogenous progesterone is expected to have the same impact on the endometrium as endogenous progesterone, it is clear that, unlike in fresh cycles, in 'freeze-all' cycles an endogenous LH surge prevention does not seem necessary. Therefore, both GnRH antagonists and exogenous progesterone appear to be redundant in 'freeze-all' cycles, and in this context the indications for the use of GnRH analogues in ovarian stimulation protocols need to be revisited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis E Messinis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece.
| | - Christina I Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros Daponte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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Anifandis G, Messini CI, Daponte A, Messinis IE. COVID-19 and fertility: a virtual reality. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 41:157-159. [PMID: 32466995 PMCID: PMC7206439 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is an extraordinary global situation, and all countries have adopted their own strategies to diminish and eliminate the spread of the virus. All measures are in line with the recommendations provided by the World Health Organization. Scientific societies, such as the European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology and American Society for Reproductive Medicine, have provided recommendations and guidance to overcome and flatten the growing curve of infection in patients who undergo IVF treatments. Although there is as yet no evidence that the virus causing COVID-19 might have negative effects on IVF outcomes, fertility treatments have been postponed in order to support healthcare systems by avoiding placing them under additional stress. The possibility of the virus affecting sperm function and egg performance cannot be excluded. In addition, an indirect effect of the virus on gametes and embryos during their manipulation cannot be ruled out. This commentary aims to provide some ideas on the possible effect of the virus on gametes and embryos, as well as how it could affect the normal functioning of the embryology laboratory.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece.
| | - Christina I Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros Daponte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Ioannis E Messinis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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17
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Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Maziotis E, Rapani A, Giannelou P, Pantou A, Anifandis G, Bakas P, Vlahos N, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. Assessing Clinical Embryology Research: A Global Bibliometric Analysis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 56:medicina56050210. [PMID: 32357468 PMCID: PMC7279470 DOI: 10.3390/medicina56050210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The evaluative strength of available bibliometric tools in the field of clinical embryology has never been examined in the literature. The aim is to bring insight regarding the identity of clinical embryology research, introducing concerns when solely relying on the methodology of bibliometric analysis. Materials and Methods: An all-inclusive analysis of the most bibliometrically highlighted scientific contributions regarding the cornerstones of clinical embryology was performed employing the Scopus, Web of Science (WoS) and PubMed databases, between 1978–2018. An analysis of the number of publications, respective citations and h-index, g-index, along with m-quotient is presented. The top 30 contributing authors for each distinctive area of research are listed. An attempt at visualizing the yearly published articles, clusters, and collaborations of authors, along with the geographic origin of publications, is also presented. Results: Combining all searches and keywords yielded 54,522 results. In the Scopus database, employing the keyword “In Vitro Fertilization” yielded 41,292 results. The publications of the top five authors in each research field were analytically presented and compared to the total number of publications for each respective field. The research field of Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis/Screening/Testing was allocated the highest percentage of publications produced by the top five authors. Regarding journal bibliometrics, based on the year 2017 metrics, there are only 29 journals according to WoS that refer to “Reproductive Biology”, ranking it 187th among 235 disciplines. The USA produced the highest number of publications (12,537). Conclusion: Results indicate an explosion of interest published in the literature regarding the field of clinical embryology. Further analysis on collaborations and the trends involved should be of added value as productivity between countries varies significantly. This may guide researchers, in vitro fertilization professionals, and prospective authors during literature search, while proving useful regarding manuscript design and concurring on keywords and abstract content.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (E.M.); (A.R.); (P.G.); (M.K.)
- Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece; (P.B.); (N.V.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-6979234100
| | - Konstantinos Sfakianoudis
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (A.P.); (K.P.)
| | - Evangelos Maziotis
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (E.M.); (A.R.); (P.G.); (M.K.)
- Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece; (P.B.); (N.V.)
| | - Anna Rapani
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (E.M.); (A.R.); (P.G.); (M.K.)
- Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece; (P.B.); (N.V.)
| | - Polina Giannelou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (E.M.); (A.R.); (P.G.); (M.K.)
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (A.P.); (K.P.)
| | - Agni Pantou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (A.P.); (K.P.)
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 3, Panepistimiou, 41500 Larisa, Greece;
| | - Panagiotis Bakas
- Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece; (P.B.); (N.V.)
| | - Nikolaos Vlahos
- Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece; (P.B.); (N.V.)
| | - Konstantinos Pantos
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (A.P.); (K.P.)
| | - Michael Koutsilieris
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (E.M.); (A.R.); (P.G.); (M.K.)
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Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Maziotis E, Tsioulou P, Giannelou P, Grigoriadis S, Pantou A, Anifandis G, Christopoulos P, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. Investigating the Optimal Time for Intrauterine Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Infusion in Order to Improve IVF Outcome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. In Vivo 2019; 33:1737-1749. [PMID: 31662498 PMCID: PMC6899137 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.11664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Studies on the impact of intrauterine human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) administration in order to improve the In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) outcome have yielded conflicting results. The aim of the present systematic review and meta-analysis is to investigate whether timing of intrauterine hCG administration prior to embryo transfer affects its efficiency. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic search of the literature on Pubmed/Medline, Embase and Cochrane databases was performed. Only Randomized Control Trials were included in this meta-analysis. RESULTS Live birth rates were not improved following hCG administration (RR=1.13, 95%CI=0.88-1.46, p=0.34) in the pooled results. Combined live birth and ongoing pregnancy rates were borderline statistically significant following hCG administration (RR=1.27, 95%CI=1.00-1.62, p=0.05). Following subgroup analysis regarding live birth and ongoing pregnancy rates, only the 5-12 minutes prior to the embryo transfer group reported a statistically significant improvement. CONCLUSION Intrauterine infusion of hCG within an IVF-Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) cycle improves outcome only when administered 5-12 min prior to embryo transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Evangelos Maziotis
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Petroula Tsioulou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Polina Giannelou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Athens, Greece
| | - Sokratis Grigoriadis
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Agni Pantou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Athens, Greece
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Christopoulos
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Michael Koutsilieris
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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19
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Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Tsioulou P, Rapani A, Giannelou P, Kiriakopoulos N, Pantou A, Vlahos N, Anifandis G, Bolaris S, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. What will the future hold for artificial organs in the service of assisted reproduction: prospects and considerations. Front Med 2019; 13:627-638. [PMID: 31300970 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-019-0697-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Assisted reproduction provides a wide spectrum of treatments and strategies addressing infertility. However, distinct groups of infertile patients with unexplained infertility, congenital disorders, and other complex cases pose a challenge in in vitro fertilization (IVF) practices. This special cohort of patients is associated with futile attempts, IVF overuse, and dead ends in management. Cutting edge research on animal models introduced this concept, along with the development of artificial organs with the aim to mimic the respective physiological functions in reproduction. Extrapolation on clinical application leads to the future use of infertility management in humans. To date, the successful clinical application of artificial reproductive organs in humans is not feasible because further animal model studies are required prior to clinical trials. The application of these artificial organs could provide a solution to infertility cases with no other options. This manuscript presents an overview on the current status, future prospects, and considerations on the potential clinical application of artificial ovary, uterus, and gametes in humans. This paper presents how the IVF practice landscape may be shaped and challenged in the future, along with the subsequent concerns in assisted reproductive treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Mikras Asias, 11527, Athens, Greece. .,Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Vasilissis Sofias str., 11528, Athens, Greece.
| | | | - Petroula Tsioulou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Mikras Asias, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Anna Rapani
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Mikras Asias, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Polina Giannelou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Mikras Asias, 11527, Athens, Greece.,Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Papanikoli, 15232, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Kiriakopoulos
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Mikras Asias, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Agni Pantou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Papanikoli, 15232, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Vlahos
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Mikras Asias, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41500, Larisa, Greece
| | - Stamatis Bolaris
- Assisted Conception Unit, General-Maternity District Hospital "Elena Venizelou", Plateia Elenas Venizelou, 11521, Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Pantos
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Papanikoli, 15232, Athens, Greece
| | - Michael Koutsilieris
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Mikras Asias, 11527, Athens, Greece
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Pousias S, Messini CI, Anifandis G, Sveronis G, Georgoulias P, Daponte A, Messinis IE, Dafopoulos K. The effect of a GnRH antagonist on follicle maturation in normal women. Reprod Biomed Online 2019; 39:84-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2019.03.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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21
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Messini CI, Vasilaki A, Korona E, Anifandis G, Georgoulias P, Dafopoulos K, Garas A, Daponte A, Messinis IE. Effect of resistin on estradiol and progesterone secretion from human luteinized granulosa cells in culture. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2019; 65:350-356. [DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2019.1615151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Christina I. Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Anna Vasilaki
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Evangelia Korona
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Georgoulias
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Dafopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Antonios Garas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros Daponte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Ioannis E. Messinis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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22
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Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Rapani A, Giannelou P, Anifandis G, Bolaris S, Pantou A, Lambropoulou M, Pappas A, Deligeoroglou E, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. Considerations Regarding Embryo Culture Conditions: From Media to Epigenetics. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 32:451-460. [PMID: 29695546 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.11261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Revised: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
There are numerous reports on embryo culture media and conditions in the laboratory, as the subject is multifaceted and complex, reflecting the variation in practice. In this scoping review, we attempt to approach the topic of culture media and conditions from the practitioners' perspective aiming to highlight, in a comprehensive fashion, important aspects regarding the options available, introduce points of debate and controversy, while maintaining the viewpoint of the practicing embryologist's concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece .,Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Anna Rapani
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Polina Giannelou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Athens, Greece
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Stamatis Bolaris
- Assisted Conception Unit, Elena Venizelou General-Maternity District Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Agni Pantou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Lambropoulou
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Athanasios Pappas
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Athens, Greece
| | - Efthimios Deligeoroglou
- Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Michael Koutsilieris
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Anifandis G, Michopoulos A, Daponte A, Chatzimeletiou K, Simopoulou M, Messini CI, Polyzos NP, Vassiou K, Dafopoulos K, Goulis DG. Artificial oocyte activation: physiological, pathophysiological and ethical aspects. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2018; 65:3-11. [DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2018.1516000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ART Unit, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larisa, Greece
| | - Alexandros Michopoulos
- Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Alexandros Daponte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ART Unit, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larisa, Greece
| | - Katerina Chatzimeletiou
- Unit of Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotle University Medical School, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Physiology, Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Christina I. Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ART Unit, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larisa, Greece
| | - Nikolas P. Polyzos
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Katerina Vassiou
- Department of Anatomy, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larisa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Dafopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ART Unit, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larisa, Greece
| | - Dimitrios G. Goulis
- Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Antoniou N, Maziotis E, Rapani A, Bakas P, Anifandis G, Kalampokas T, Bolaris S, Pantou A, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. Making IVF more effective through the evolution of prediction models: is prognosis the missing piece of the puzzle? Syst Biol Reprod Med 2018; 64:305-323. [PMID: 30088950 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2018.1504347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technology has evolved tremendously since the emergence of in vitro fertilization (IVF). In the course of the recent decade, there have been significant efforts in order to minimize multiple gestations, while improving percentages of singleton pregnancies and offering individualized services in IVF, in line with the trend of personalized medicine. Patients as well as clinicians and the entire IVF team benefit majorly from 'knowing what to expect' from an IVF cycle. Hereby, the question that has emerged is to what extent prognosis could facilitate toward the achievement of the above goal. In the current review, we present prediction models based on patients' characteristics and IVF data, as well as models based on embryo morphology and biomarkers during culture shaping a complication free and cost-effective personalized treatment. The starting point for the implementation of prediction models was initiated by the aspiration of moving toward optimal practice. Thus, prediction models could serve as useful tools that could safely set the expectations involved during this journey guiding and making IVF treatment more effective. The aim and scope of this review is to thoroughly present the evolution and contribution of prediction models toward an efficient IVF treatment. ABBREVIATIONS IVF: In vitro fertilization; ART: assisted reproduction techniques; BMI: body mass index; OHSS: ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome; eSET: elective single embryo transfer; ESHRE: European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology; mtDNA: mitochondrial DNA; nDNA: nuclear DNA; ICSI: intracytoplasmic sperm injection; MBR: multiple birth rates; LBR: live birth rates; SART: Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology Clinic Outcome Reporting System; AFC: antral follicle count; GnRH: gonadotrophin releasing hormone; FSH: follicle stimulating hormone; LH: luteinizing hormone; AMH: anti-Müllerian hormone; DHEA: dehydroepiandrosterone; PCOS: polycystic ovarian syndrome; NPCOS: non-polycystic ovarian syndrome; CE: cost-effectiveness; CC: clomiphene citrate; ORT: ovarian reserve test; EU: embryo-uterus; DET: double embryo transfer; CES: Cumulative Embryo Score; GES: Graduated Embryo Score; CSS: Combined Scoring System; MSEQ: Mean Score of Embryo Quality; IMC: integrated morphology cleavage; EFNB2: ephrin-B2; CAMK1D: calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase 1D; GSTA4: glutathione S-transferase alpha 4; GSR: glutathione reductase; PGR: progesterone receptor; AMHR2: anti-Müllerian hormone receptor 2; LIF: leukemia inhibitory factor; sHLA-G: soluble human leukocyte antigen G.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Simopoulou
- a Department of Physiology , Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece.,b Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
| | | | - Nikolaos Antoniou
- a Department of Physiology , Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
| | - Evangelos Maziotis
- a Department of Physiology , Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
| | - Anna Rapani
- a Department of Physiology , Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
| | - Panagiotis Bakas
- b Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
| | - George Anifandis
- d Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine , University of Thessaly , Larissa , Greece
| | - Theodoros Kalampokas
- b Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
| | - Stamatis Bolaris
- e Department fo Obsterics and Gynaecology , Assisted Conception Unit, General-Maternity District Hospital "Elena Venizelou" , Athens , Greece
| | - Agni Pantou
- c Department of Assisted Conception , Human Reproduction Genesis Athens Clinic , Athens , Greece
| | - Konstantinos Pantos
- c Department of Assisted Conception , Human Reproduction Genesis Athens Clinic , Athens , Greece
| | - Michael Koutsilieris
- a Department of Physiology , Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
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25
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Dragamestianos C, Messini C, Antonakis P, Zacharouli K, Kostopoulou E, Makrigiannakis A, Georgoulias P, Anifandis G, Dafopoulos K, Garas A, Daponte A, Messinis I. The Effect of Metformin on the Endometrium of Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Gynecol Obstet Invest 2018; 84:35-44. [DOI: 10.1159/000491086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Strouthopoulos C, Anifandis G. Corrigendum to ``An automated blastomere identification method for the evaluation of day 2 embryos during IVF/ICSI treatments'' [Computer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine, 156 (2018) pp. 53-59]. Comput Methods Programs Biomed 2018; 161:239. [PMID: 29627141 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmpb.2018.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Charalambos Strouthopoulos
- Technological Educational Institute of Central Macedonia, Department of Informatics Engineering, Serres, Greece.
| | - George Anifandis
- University of Thessaly, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Laboratory of Embryology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larisa, Greece.
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Anifandis G, Katsanaki K, Lagodonti G, Messini C, Simopoulou M, Dafopoulos K, Daponte A. The Effect of Glyphosate on Human Sperm Motility and Sperm DNA Fragmentation. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2018; 15:E1117. [PMID: 29848988 PMCID: PMC6024999 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15061117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Revised: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Glyphosate is the active ingredient of Roundup®, which is one of the most popular herbicides worldwide. Although many studies have focused on the reproductive toxicity of glyphosate or glyphosate-based herbicides, the majority of them have concluded that the effect of the specific herbicide is negligible, while only a few studies indicate the male reproductive toxicity of glyphosate alone. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of 0.36 mg/L glyphosate on sperm motility and sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF). Thirty healthy men volunteered to undergo semen analysis for the purpose of the study. Sperm motility was calculated according to WHO 2010 guidelines at collection time (zero time) and 1 h post-treatment with glyphosate. Sperm DNA fragmentation was evaluated with Halosperm® G2 kit for both the control and glyphosate-treated sperm samples. Sperm progressive motility of glyphosate-treated samples was significantly reduced after 1 h post-treatment in comparison to the respective controls, in contrast to the SDF of glyphosate-treated samples, which was comparable to the respective controls. Conclusively, under these in vitro conditions, at high concentrations that greatly exceed environmental exposures, glyphosate exerts toxic effects on sperm progressive motility but not on sperm DNA integrity, meaning that the toxic effect is limited only to motility, at least in the first hour.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ART Unit, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larisa 41222, Greece.
| | - Katerina Katsanaki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ART Unit, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larisa 41222, Greece.
| | - Georgia Lagodonti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ART Unit, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larisa 41222, Greece.
| | - Christina Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ART Unit, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larisa 41222, Greece.
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Physiology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens 11225, Greece.
| | - Konstantinos Dafopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ART Unit, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larisa 41222, Greece.
| | - Alexandros Daponte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ART Unit, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larisa 41222, Greece.
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Strouthopoulos C, Anifandis G. An automated blastomere identification method for the evaluation of day 2 embryos during IVF/ICSI treatments. Comput Methods Programs Biomed 2018; 156:53-59. [PMID: 29428076 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmpb.2017.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2017] [Revised: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Evaluation of human embryos is one of the most important challenges in vitro fertilization (IVF) programs. The morphology and the morphokinetic parameters of the early cleaving embryo are of critical clinical importance. This stage spans the first 48 h post-fertilization, in which the embryo is dividing in smaller blastomeres at specific time-points. The morphology, in combination with the symmetry of the blastomeres seems to be powerful features with strong prognostic value for embryo evaluation. To date, the identification of these features is based on human inspection in timed intervals, at best using camera systems that simply work as surveillance systems without any precise alerting and decision support mechanisms. The purpose of the study presented in this paper was to develop a computer vision technique to automatically detect and identify the most suitable cleaving embryos (preferably at day 2 post-fertilization) for embryo transfer (ET) during IVF/ICSI treatments. METHODS AND RESULTS To this end, texture and geometrical features were used to localize and analyze the whole cleaving embryo in 2D grayscale images captured during in vitro embryo formation. Because of the ellipsoidal nature of blastomeres, the contour of each blastomere was modeled with an optimal fitting ellipse while the mean eccentricity of all ellipses is computed. The mean eccentricity in combination with the number of blastomeres forms the feature space on which the final criterion for the embryo evaluation was based. CONCLUSIONS Experimental results with low quality 2D grayscale images demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed technique and provided evidence of a novel automated approach for predicting embryo quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charalambos Strouthopoulos
- Technological Educational Institute of Central Macedonia, Department of Informatics Engineering, Serres, Greece
| | - George Anifandis
- University of Thessaly, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Laboratory of Embryology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larisa, Greece.
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Siristatidis C, Dafopoulos K, El-Khayat W, Salamalekis G, Anifandis G, Vrantza T, Elsadek M, Papantoniou N. Administration of prednisolone and low molecular weight heparin in patients with repeated implantation failures: a cohort study. Gynecol Endocrinol 2018; 34:136-139. [PMID: 28949261 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2017.1380182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Conflicting results exist for low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) and prednisolone when tested as separate adjuncts for the improvement of the clinical outcomes in patients with repeated implantation failures (RIF) undergoing IVF/ICSI treatment. Through a cohort study, we evaluated the combined effect of both drugs on pregnancy parameters in 115 women with RIF. Clinical pregnancy rate was the primary end point while the sample size was calculated through the results of a pilot study. Clinical and IVF cycle characteristics were also compared between the groups. Baseline and cycle characteristics were comparable between groups. Biochemical and clinical pregnancy rates were similar in both groups [23/57 (40.4%) vs. 14/58 (24.1%), and 17/57 (29.8%) vs. 11/58 (19%), p = .063, and .175, respectively]. Similarly, miscarriage rates were comparable between the groups (35.7% vs. 34.8%), as well as live birth rates [15/57 (26.3%) vs. 9/58 (15.5%), p = .154]. In conclusion, the administration of LMWH with prednizolone in subfertile women with RIF seems not to improve clinical pregnancy rates, but a full-scaled RCT would definitely be more accurate.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Anticoagulants/adverse effects
- Anticoagulants/therapeutic use
- Cohort Studies
- Combined Modality Therapy/adverse effects
- Drug Therapy, Combination/adverse effects
- Egypt/epidemiology
- Family Characteristics
- Female
- Fertility Agents, Female/adverse effects
- Fertility Agents, Female/therapeutic use
- Fertilization in Vitro
- Glucocorticoids/adverse effects
- Glucocorticoids/therapeutic use
- Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight/adverse effects
- Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight/therapeutic use
- Hospitals, University
- Humans
- Infertility, Female/drug therapy
- Infertility, Female/therapy
- Infertility, Male
- Intention to Treat Analysis
- Male
- Outpatient Clinics, Hospital
- Ovulation Induction/adverse effects
- Prednisolone/adverse effects
- Prednisolone/therapeutic use
- Pregnancy
- Pregnancy Rate
- Retrospective Studies
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Affiliation(s)
- Charalampos Siristatidis
- a Assisted Reproduction Unit, Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , "Attikon Hospital", Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
| | - Konstantinos Dafopoulos
- b Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine , Larissa , Greece
| | - Waleed El-Khayat
- c Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University , Egypt
- d Middle East Fertility Center , Giza , Egypt
| | - George Salamalekis
- a Assisted Reproduction Unit, Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , "Attikon Hospital", Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
| | - George Anifandis
- b Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine , Larissa , Greece
| | - Tereza Vrantza
- a Assisted Reproduction Unit, Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , "Attikon Hospital", Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
| | - Mostafa Elsadek
- c Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University , Egypt
- d Middle East Fertility Center , Giza , Egypt
| | - Nikolaos Papantoniou
- a Assisted Reproduction Unit, Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , "Attikon Hospital", Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
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Messinis IE, Messini CI, Anifandis G, Garas A, Daponte A. Gonadotropin Surge-Attenuating Factor: A Nonsteroidal Ovarian Hormone Controlling GnRH-Induced LH Secretion in the Normal Menstrual Cycle. Vitamins and Hormones 2018; 107:263-286. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2018.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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Siristatidis C, Dafopoulos K, Christoforidis N, Anifandis G, Pergialiotis V, Papantoniou N. Corifollitropin alfa compared with follitropin beta in GnRH-antagonist ovarian stimulation protocols in an unselected population undergoing IVF/ICSI. Gynecol Endocrinol 2017; 33:968-971. [PMID: 28508691 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2017.1323203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Recombinant DNA technologies have produced Corifollitropin alfa (CFa) used during IVF/ICSI in order to keep the circulating FSH levels above the threshold necessary to support multi-follicular growth for a week. In this prospective case-control study, we compared 70 participants treated with 150 μg CFa combined with 150 IU of follitropin beta (study group) with 70 subfertile participants with matching baseline characteristics, conforming with the same inclusion criteria and treated with an antagonist protocol using follitropin beta (control group). Live birth was the primary outcome, while secondary outcome measures were IVF/ICSI cycles characteristics, including adverse events and complications. Live birth was determined in reduced rates in the study compared to the control group, reaching statistical significance [6/70 versus 20/70, p = 0.002], as also in the respective number of clinical pregnancies [9/70 versus 23/70, p = 0.005], although the incidence of miscarriage was similar for both groups [6/70 versus 5/70, p > 0.99]. Most of the secondary parameters examined were similar between groups. Logistic regression revealed that protocol and AFC had a direct impact on live birth. Ovarian stimulation with CFa does not seem to constitute an equally effective method as compared with follitropin beta to be offered in a general subfertile population seeking IVF/ICSI treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charalampos Siristatidis
- a Assisted Reproduction Unit, Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Attikon Hospital", Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
| | - Konstantinos Dafopoulos
- b Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences , Larissa , Greece
| | | | - George Anifandis
- b Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences , Larissa , Greece
| | - Vasileios Pergialiotis
- d Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Attikon Hospital", Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
| | - Nikolaos Papantoniou
- d Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Attikon Hospital", Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens , Athens , Greece
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Messini CI, Malandri M, Anifandis G, Dafopoulos K, Georgoulias P, Sveronis G, Garas A, Daponte A, Messinis IE. Submaximal doses of ghrelin do not inhibit gonadotrophin levels but stimulate prolactin secretion in postmenopausal women. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2017; 87:44-50. [PMID: 28397357 DOI: 10.1111/cen.13349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2017] [Revised: 03/24/2017] [Accepted: 04/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE An inhibitory effect of ghrelin on gonadotrophin secretion has been reported in normally menstruating women possibly modulated by endogenous oestrogen. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of ghrelin on gonadotrophin and prolactin (PRL) secretion in oestrogen-deprived postmenopausal women. DESIGN Prospective intervention study. PATIENTS AND MEASUREMENTS Ten healthy postmenopausal volunteer women were studied during two 15-days periods of oestrogen treatment (A and B) a month apart. Four experiments (Exp) were performed in total, two on day 1 (Exp 1A and Exp 1B) and two on day 15 (Exp 15A and Exp 15B) of the two periods. The women received in Exp 1A and in Exp 15A two iv injections of ghrelin (0.15 μg/kg at time 0 minute and 0.30 μg/kg at time 90 minutes) and in Exp1B and in Exp 15B normal saline (2 mL), respectively. Blood samples were taken at -15, 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, 150 and 180 minutes. RESULTS After oestrogen treatment, late follicular phase serum oestradiol levels were attained on day 15 of periods A and B. Ghrelin administration did not affect serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), whereas it increased significantly those of growth hormone (GH) and PRL. In Exp 15A, serum PRL increment in response to ghrelin (area under the curve, net increment) was significantly greater than in Exp 1A (P<.05). CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates for the first time that in oestrogen-deprived postmenopausal women, ghrelin administration affects neither FSH nor LH levels but stimulates PRL secretion, that is amplified by exogenous oestrogen administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina I Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Maria Malandri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Dafopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Georgoulias
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Georgios Sveronis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Antonios Garas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros Daponte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Ioannis E Messinis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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Dafopoulos K, Messini CI, Anifandis G, Georgoulias P, Sourlas D, Messinis IE. Blood ghrelin, adiponectin and resistin levels during controlled ovarian stimulation in IVF cycles. Physiol Res 2016; 65:809-814. [PMID: 27429119 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.933295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate changes of blood ghrelin, adiponectin and resistin levels in IVF/ICSI-ET cycles. Twenty women were stimulated with recombinant FSH in a GnRH agonist short protocol for IVF/ICSI. Blood samples were taken on cycle day 2 before the commencement of injections, on cycle day 6 and on the days of HCG injection, oocyte pick up (OPU), embryo transfer (ET) as well as 7 and 12 days post-ET. Serum E2 levels increased during the stimulation, peaking on the HCG day and declined thereafter (p<0.001). Serum progesterone levels started to increase on the OPU day, peaking on the ET day (p<0.001) and decreased on days 7 and 12 post-ET. Plasma ghrelin remained unchanged during the whole cycle. Serum adiponectin levels remained stable during the stimulation period until the ET day and decreased on days 7 and 12 post-ET (p<0.001). Serum resistin levels increased until the ET day (p<0.05), remained unchanged on day 7 post-ET and decreased on day 12 post-ET (p<0.05). The present study shows for the first time that ghrelin levels did not change significantly during IVF/ICSI-ET cycles. Resistin levels increased during the stimulation period while adiponectin levels remained stable decreasing during the luteal phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Dafopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece.
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Messini CI, Daponte A, Anifandis G, Mahmood T, Messinis IE. Standards of Care in infertility in Europe. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2016; 207:S0301-2115(16)30951-4. [PMID: 28029396 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2016.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2016] [Accepted: 10/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Evidence-based medicine is the principal approach to medical practice. There are several debatable issues in infertility, which require clarification. Over the past 20 years, reliable methodology has been developed for the management of infertile couples. This includes high quality diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, which are applied in highly specialised infertility centres. The European Board and College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (EBCOG) has published Standards of Care for Women's Health in Europe, which should be the cornerstone for the clinicians and service providers in the European Union to establish common protocols within their centres. Each infertility treatment should result in the highest possible success rate and all appropriate measures for the patient's safety should be in place. The treatment protocols should minimise risk of complications, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). The current use of GnRH agonists to trigger final follicle maturation has provided the means for avoiding this syndrome. Additionally, multiple pregnancy rates are still high in assisted reproductive technology (ART). These rates should be reduced by the adoption of single embryo transfer during IVF treatment and by the proper monitoring of ovulation induction protocols. EBCOG Standards of Care for infertility and assisted conception treatment derived from the best available evidence should underpin the provision of high quality infertility services in European countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina I Messini
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros Daponte
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Tahir Mahmood
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Victoria Hospital, Kirkcaldy, Scotland, UK; European Board and College of Obstetrics & Gynaecology (EBCOG), UK
| | - Ioannis E Messinis
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece; European Board and College of Obstetrics & Gynaecology (EBCOG), UK.
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Bounartzi T, Dafopoulos K, Anifandis G, Messini CI, Koutsonikou C, Kouris S, Satra M, Sotiriou S, Vamvakopoulos N, Messinis IE. Pregnancy prediction by free sperm DNA and sperm DNA fragmentation in semen specimens of IVF/ICSI-ET patients. HUM FERTIL 2016; 19:56-62. [DOI: 10.3109/14647273.2016.1157629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Bosdou JK, Venetis CA, Dafopoulos K, Zepiridis L, Chatzimeletiou K, Anifandis G, Mitsoli A, Makedos A, Messinis IE, Tarlatzis BC, Kolibianakis EM. Transdermal testosterone pretreatment in poor responders undergoing ICSI: a randomized clinical trial. Hum Reprod 2016; 31:977-85. [PMID: 26956551 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2015] [Accepted: 01/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does pretreatment with transdermal testosterone increase the number of cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) retrieved by more than 1.5 in poor responders undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), using recombinant follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and gonadotrophin releasing hormone agonists (GnRHa)? SUMMARY ANSWER Testosterone pretreatment failed to increase the number of COCs by more than 1.5 as compared with no pretreatment in poor responders undergoing ICSI (difference between medians: 0.0, 95% CI: -1.0 to +1.0). WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Androgens are thought to play an important role in early follicular development by enhancing ovarian sensitivity to FSH. In a recent meta-analysis, testosterone pretreatment resulted in an increase of 1.5 COCs as compared with no pretreatment. However, this effect was based on the analysis of only two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) including 163 patients. Evidently, there is a need for additional RCTs that will allow firmer conclusions to be drawn. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION The present RCT was designed to detect a difference of 1.5 COCs (sample size required = 48 patients). From 02/2014 until 04/2015, 50 poor responders fulfilling the Bologna criteria have been randomized (using a randomization list) to either testosterone pretreatment for 21 days ( ITALIC! n = 26) or no pretreatment ( ITALIC! n = 24). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS All patients underwent a long follicular GnRHa protocol. Recombinant FSH stimulation was started on Day 22 following GnRHa initiation. In the testosterone pretreatment group, a daily dose of 10 mg of testosterone gel was applied transdermally for 21 days starting from GnRHa initiation. Results are expressed as median (interquartile range). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE No differences in baseline characteristics were observed between the two groups compared. Testosterone levels [median (interquartile range)] were significantly higher in the testosterone pretreatment on the day of initiation of FSH stimulation [114 (99.5) ng/dl versus 20 (20) ng/dl, respectively, ITALIC! P < 0.001]. Duration of FSH stimulation [median (interquartile range)] was similar between the groups compared [12.5 (3.0) days versus 12 (3.0) days, respectively, ITALIC! P = 0.52]. The number of COCs retrieved [median (interquartile range)] was not different between the testosterone pretreatment and the no pretreatment groups [3.5 (4.0) versus 3.0 (3.0), 95% CI for the median: 2.0-5.0 versus 2.7-4.3, respectively; difference between medians: 0.0, 95% CI: +1.0 to -1.0). Similarly no differences were observed regarding fertilization rates [median (interquartile range)] [66.7% (32.5) versus 66.7% (42.9), respectively, ITALIC! P = 0.97] and live birth rates per randomized patient (7.7% versus 8.3%, respectively, rate difference: -0.6%, 95% CI: -19.0 to +16.9). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The study was not powered to detect differences less than 1.5 COCs, although it is doubtful whether these differences would be clinically relevant. Moreover, due to sample size restrictions, no conclusions can be drawn regarding the probability of live birth. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The results of this randomized clinical trial, suggesting that pretreatment with 10 mg of transdermal testosterone for 21 days does not improve ovarian response by more than 1.5 oocytes, could be used to more accurately consult patients with poor ovarian response. However, an improvement in IVF outcome using a higher dose of testosterone or a longer pretreatment period cannot be excluded. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST The study was partially funded by a Scholarship from the Academy of Athens. C.A.V. reports personal fees and non-financial support from Merck, Sharp and Dome, personal fees and non-financial support from Merck Serono, personal fees and non-financial support from IPSEN Hellas S.A., outside the submitted work. B.C.T. reports grants from Merck Serono, grants from Merck Sharp & Dohme, personal fees from Merck Serono, personal fees from Merck Sharp & Dohme, personal fees from IBSA & Ferring, outside the submitted work. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT01961336. TRIAL REGISTRATION DATE 10 October 2013. DATE OF FIRST PATIENT'S ENROLLMENT 02/2014.
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Affiliation(s)
- J K Bosdou
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - C A Venetis
- School of Women's and Children's Health, UNSW Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - K Dafopoulos
- Unit for Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - L Zepiridis
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - K Chatzimeletiou
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - G Anifandis
- Unit for Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - A Mitsoli
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - A Makedos
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - I E Messinis
- Unit for Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - B C Tarlatzis
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - E M Kolibianakis
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Anifandis G, Messini CI, Dafopoulos K, Daponte A, Messinis IE. Sperm contributions to oocyte activation: more that meets the eye. J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:313-316. [PMID: 26780328 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0653-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2015] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well known that for successful fertilization, oocyte activation is required, which involves a signal transduction cascade leading to the conversion of the oocyte to a diploid embryo. During oocyte activation, intracellular calcium levels oscillate repetitively causing exocytosis of cortical granules, the enzymes which the latter contain are released into the perivitelline space, leading to modifications of the zona pellucida (ZP), which prevent the penetration of the ZP by further spermatozoa. The necessary element that initiates oocyte activation is apparently the release of intracellular calcium (Ca(2+)) stored in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The exact mechanism via which Ca(2+) is released within the oocyte has not been yet clarified, and has been a matter of an ongoing debate. Today, the sperm factor hypothesis has gained general acceptance, according to which a sperm molecule, either phospholipase C (PLCζ) or a post-acrosomal sheath WW domain-binding protein (PAWP), diffuses into the ooplasm initiating a molecular cascade involving mainly the phosphoinositide pathway. Mounting evidence now indicates that these calcium oscillations are caused by a testis-specific PLC termed PLCζ, released into the oocyte following gamete fusion. Also, recently, PAWP has been proposed as an alternative sperm factor candidate. These different sperm candidates have led to a significant debate. This raises important questions as regards to the relative importance of these two proteins as diagnostic tools in reproductive medicine with therapeutic potential, indicating the need for further research. In the present mini review, the phenomenon of oocyte activation during fertilization as well as the existing controversy will be highlighted and the possible mechanisms that are involved in this process will be discussed. Finally, an explanation of the existing debate will be attempted.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, ART Unit, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larissa, Greece.
| | - Christina I Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, ART Unit, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Dafopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, ART Unit, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexandros Daponte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, ART Unit, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larissa, Greece
| | - Ioannis E Messinis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, ART Unit, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larissa, Greece
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Dimitraki M, Koutlaki N, Gioka T, Messini CI, Dafopoulos K, Anifandis G, Messinis IE. Attenuation of the oestrogen positive feedback mechanism with the age in postmenopausal women. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2015; 83:377-83. [PMID: 25649331 DOI: 10.1111/cen.12735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2014] [Revised: 09/13/2014] [Accepted: 01/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE It has been reported that the positive feedback mechanism of oestrogens and progesterone is preserved, although attenuated, in late postmenopausal years. Whether this is also true for the positive feedback effect of oestrogens alone has not been investigated. DESIGN Prospective intervention study. PATIENTS Thirty healthy postmenopausal women. MEASUREMENTS The women were divided into three groups according to the years since menopause (group I: 2-8 years, group II: 9-17 years, group III: 18-25 years). They were studied during a period of 41 days. Two acute experiments (EP) of exogenous oestradiol, given via skin patches, were performed from days 1 to 7 (EP1) and from days 35 to 41 (EP2) to induce an LH surge. Between the two experiments (days 7-34), oestradiol was given at the dose of 100 μg every 3 days, while oral progesterone was added from day 21 to day 34 in order to simulate a luteal phase. Blood samples were taken every 6 h during EP1 and EP2 as well as on days 8, 13, 20, 21, 27 and 34. FSH, LH, oestradiol and progesterone were measured in all blood samples. RESULTS An LH surge occurred as a result of the oestradiol positive feedback mechanism in group I and in group II, in both EP1 and EP2. Peak LH values during the surge were significantly lower in group II than in group I in both experiments. None of the patients in group III displayed an LH surge. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate for the first time a gradual attenuation of the pituitary response to oestrogenic provocation over a certain period following the menopause, with complete abolition after 20 years. It is suggested that the reserves of pituitary gonadotrophs diminish with age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Dimitraki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Nikoletta Koutlaki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Theodora Gioka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Christina I Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Dafopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Ioannis E Messinis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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Anifandis G, Messini CI, Dafopoulos K, Messinis IE. Genes and Conditions Controlling Mammalian Pre- and Post-implantation Embryo Development. Curr Genomics 2015; 16:32-46. [PMID: 25937812 PMCID: PMC4412963 DOI: 10.2174/1389202916666141224205025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2014] [Revised: 12/20/2014] [Accepted: 12/23/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Embryo quality during the in vitro developmental period is of great clinical importance. Experimental genetic studies during this period have demonstrated the association between specific gene expression profiles and the production of healthy blastocysts. Although the quality of the oocyte may play a major role in embryo development, it has been well established that the post - fertilization period also has an important and crucial role in the determination of blastocyst quality. A variety of genes (such as OCT, SOX2, NANOG) and their related signaling pathways as well as transcription molecules (such as TGF-β, BMP) have been implicated in the pre- and post-implantation period. Furthermore, DNA methylation has been lately characterized as an epigenetic mark since it is one of the most important processes involved in the maintenance of genome stability. Physiological embryo development appears to depend upon the correct DNA methylation pattern. Due to the fact that soon after fertilization the zygote undergoes several morphogenetic and developmental events including activation of embryonic genome through the transition of the maternal genome, a diverse gene expression pattern may lead to clinically important conditions, such as apoptosis or the production of a chromosomically abnormal embryo. The present review focused on genes and their role during pre-implantation embryo development, giving emphasis on the various parameters that may alter gene expression or DNA methylation patterns. The pre-implantation embryos derived from in vitro culture systems (in vitro fertilization) and the possible effects on gene expression after the prolonged culture conditions are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology ; Embryology Lab, University of Thessalia, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larisa, Greece
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Messinis IE, Messini CI, Anifandis G, Dafopoulos K. Polycystic ovaries and obesity. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2015; 29:479-88. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2014.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2014] [Accepted: 11/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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Anifandis G, Bounartzi T, Messini CI, Dafopoulos K, Sotiriou S, Messinis IE. The impact of cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption on sperm parameters and sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) measured by Halosperm®. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2014; 290:777-82. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-014-3281-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2014] [Accepted: 05/02/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Anifandis G, Bounartzi T, Messini CI, Dafopoulos K, Markandona R, Sotiriou S, Tzavella A, Messinis IE. Sperm DNA fragmentation measured by Halosperm does not impact on embryo quality and ongoing pregnancy rates in IVF/ICSI treatments. Andrologia 2014; 47:295-302. [PMID: 24621442 DOI: 10.1111/and.12259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) has been proposed to be one of the main markers regarding male infertility. A prospective study was performed to assess primarily whether sperm DNA damage has any impact on embryological data and secondarily on pregnancy rates. This prospective study evaluated the sperm DNA damage in fresh ejaculated sperm samples from couples undergoing IVF/ICSI treatments, using the improved SCD method, known as Halosperm(®) . The results were evaluated by performing statistical analysis with the statistical package of SPSS v17. A total of 156 fresh semen samples derived from 156 couples undergoing 156 IVF/ICSI cycles. From the 156 couples, 139 finally reached the embryo transfer (ET) procedure. Overall, SDF did not correlate with embryological data, while ongoing pregnancy rate/ET was 21.6%. SDF only correlated with sperm characteristics. After the categorisation of SDF (≤35% and >35%), according to the specific references of the method used, embryological data were comparable as also ongoing pregnancy rates. Using the SCD method, sperm DNA damage is associated neither with embryological data nor to pregnancy rates. However, we should not rule out the fact that extremely high DNA damages are associated with total pregnancy failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessalia, Larissa, Greece
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Messini CI, Dafopoulos K, Malandri M, Georgoulias P, Anifandis G, Messinis IE. Inhibitory effect of submaximal doses of ghrelin on gonadotropin secretion in women. Horm Metab Res 2014; 46:36-40. [PMID: 24108390 DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1355388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The effect of ghrelin on gonadotropin secretion has been equivocal. Recent data have shown an inhibitory effect of repeated injections of ghrelin on nocturnal LH and FSH secretion in women. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of submaximal doses of ghrelin on the diurnal secretion of gonadotropins. Ten normally cycling women received 2 consecutive dosages of ghrelin (0.15 μg/kg and 0.30 μg/kg) intravenously in the early and late follicular phases of the cycle. Saline was injected in the preceding cycle. Blood samples in relation to ghrelin or saline administration (time 0 and 90 min) were taken at -15, 0, 30, 90, 120, 150, and 180 min. Serum estradiol concentrations were significantly higher in the late than in the early follicular phase. Following ghrelin administration, serum LH and FSH levels decreased significantly, in relation to the saline injection, in the late (p<0.01), although FSH values showed a within the group decrease also in the early follicular phase (p<0.05). The study suggests a differential action of ghrelin on diurnal gonadotropin secretion throughout the follicular phase of the cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- C I Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessalia, -Larissa, Greece
| | - K Dafopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessalia, -Larissa, Greece
| | - M Malandri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessalia, -Larissa, Greece
| | - P Georgoulias
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessalia, Larissa, Greece
| | - G Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessalia, -Larissa, Greece
| | - I E Messinis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessalia, -Larissa, Greece
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Messini CI, Dafopoulos K, Malandri M, Georgoulias P, Anifandis G, Messinis IE. Growth hormone response to submaximal doses of ghrelin remains unchanged during the follicular phase of the cycle. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2013; 11:36. [PMID: 23663257 PMCID: PMC3681576 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-11-36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2013] [Accepted: 05/06/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous data have shown that ghrelin-induced growth hormone (GH) secretion is augmented in women by exogenous but not by endogenous estrogens. The purpose of this study was to examine the response of GH to low-dose scheme of ghrelin administration in relation to physiological changes in estradiol levels during the normal menstrual cycle. METHODS Ten normally cycling women were studied in two menstrual cycles. Two consecutive dosages of ghrelin (0.15 μg/kg and 0.30 μg/kg) were injected intravenously at 0 and 90 min in the early and late follicular phases of one cycle. Saline was injected in the preceding cycle. Blood samples were taken at -15, 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, 150 and 180 min. The GH response was assessed. RESULTS Serum estradiol concentrations were significantly higher in the late than in the early follicular phase. After ghrelin, but not after saline administration, plasma ghrelin and serum GH levels increased significantly in both phases, peaking at 30 min and 120 min. The peak value at 120 min was significantly higher than at 30 min (P<0.001). There were no significant differences in ghrelin and GH levels between the two phases at all time points. CONCLUSIONS The present results show no difference in GH response to two consecutive submaximal doses of ghrelin between the early and the late follicular phase of the cycle. It is suggested that estradiol is not possibly involved in the physiological process that regulates ghrelin-induced GH secretion in women during the normal menstrual cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina I Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessalia, Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Dafopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessalia, Larissa, Greece
| | - Maria Malandri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessalia, Larissa, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Georgoulias
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessalia, Larissa, Greece
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessalia, Larissa, Greece
| | - Ioannis E Messinis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessalia, Larissa, Greece
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Zavos A, Dafopoulos K, Messini CI, Georgoulias P, Verikouki C, Anifandis G, Garas A, Messinis IE. The progesterone positive feedback effect in women after ovariectomy. Gynecol Endocrinol 2013; 29:254-8. [PMID: 23153029 DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2012.738727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Various ovarian substances regulate the secretion of gonadotrophins during the menstrual cycle, but there are still several unclarified issues. The aim of this study was to investigate the positive feedback effect of progesterone during the immediate period following ovariectomy. Experiments were performed in 12 normally cycling women (aged 39-49 years). Following abdominal hysterectomy plus bilateral ovariectomy performed on cycle day 3 (day 0), the women received either estradiol via skin patches (days 0-7, n = 6, group 1) or estradiol as above plus vaginal progesterone (days 1-7, n = 6, group 2). Serum estradiol values increased similarly in the two groups. After the operation, serum progesterone levels decreased significantly in group 1, while in group 2 they remained stable becoming higher than in group 1 (p < 0.05). An LH and an FSH surge occurred in group 2 with the values after the peak returning to the pre-surge baseline. In contrast, in group 1 LH and FSH levels following an initial decrease, increased gradually until the end of the experiment. These results demonstrate that, despite a variable response to estrogens, the positive feedback effect of progesterone remained intact immediately after ovariectomy in women. It is suggested that it is the combining action of estradiol and progesterone that can ensure the expression of a positive feedback mechanism in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apostolos Zavos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, University of Thessalia, Larissa, Greece
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Anifandis G, Dafopoulos K, Messini CI, Polyzos N, Messinis IE. The BMI of men and not sperm parameters impact on embryo quality and the IVF outcome. Andrology 2012; 1:85-9. [PMID: 23258634 DOI: 10.1111/j.2047-2927.2012.00012.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2012] [Revised: 08/02/2012] [Accepted: 08/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
It has been reported that increased body mass index (BMI) of men influences fecundity but it is not clear if it impacts on sperm parameters. Whether or not BMI of men influence sperm parameters and subsequently in vitro fertilization (IVF) result remains to be clarified. The aim of the present study was primarily to investigate the relationship between the BMI of men and sperm parameters (volume, concentration and motility) and whether or not it impacts on embryo quality and IVF outcome. Secondly, to investigate the impact of BMI of both men and women, in combination with their age, on IVF result. Three hundred and one couples were categorized according to their BMI. Group 1 (n = 64, both men and women had BMI l ≤ 25 kg/m(2) ), group 2 (n = 79, both men and women had BMI > 25 kg/m(2) ), group 3 (n = 142, men had BMI > 25 kg/m(2) and their wives had BMI ≤ 25 kg/m(2) ) and group 4 (n = 16, men had BMI ≤ 25 kg/m(2) and their wives had BMI > 25 kg/m(2) ). Overall (n = 301) BMI and age of men did not correlate with sperm parameters. Group 1 and group 4, regardless of the BMI of their women, demonstrated the highest quality of embryos and consequently the highest percentage of pregnancy. Furthermore, the score of the combination of both BMI and age of both men and women resulted in a threshold level of less than 800 with a relative high per cent of pregnancy. BMI of men does not correlate with sperm parameters, but influences the quality of produced embryos in such a way that impacts on pregnancy rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Thessalia, Medical School of Larisa, Larisa, Greece.
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Dafopoulos K, Venetis C, Messini CI, Pournaras S, Anifandis G, Garas A, Messinis IE. Inhibin secretion in women with the polycystic ovary syndrome before and after treatment with progesterone. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2011; 9:59. [PMID: 21529351 PMCID: PMC3095544 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-9-59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2011] [Accepted: 04/29/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES It has been suggested that inhibin secretion is altered in women with the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, the contribution of a preceding luteal phase has not been taken into account. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether progesterone in the context of a simulated luteal phase affects basal and FSH-induced inhibin secretion in women with PCOS and elevated LH. METHODS Ten women with PCOS and 8 normally cycling women participated in an experimental procedure (Exp) involving the administration of a single injection of recombinant FSH (450 IU sc). In the women with PCOS, the procedure was performed before (Exp 1) and after a 20-day treatment with progesterone (Exp 2), while in the normal women on day 2 of the cycle (Exp 3). Inhibin A and B levels were measured in blood samples taken before and 24 hours after the FSH injection. RESULTS Basal LH levels were significantly higher and inhibin A levels were significantly lower in the PCOS group compared to the control group, while inhibin B levels were comparable in the two groups. In the PCOS group, after treatment with progesterone inhibin A and LH but not inhibin B levels decreased significantly (p < 0.05). After the FSH injection, inhibin A and B levels increased significantly in the women with PCOS (Exp 1 and Exp 2) but not in the control women (Exp 3). CONCLUSIONS In women with PCOS, as compared to control women, the dissimilar pattern of inhibin A and inhibin B secretion in response to FSH appears to be independent of a preceding simulated luteal phase. It is possible that compared to normal ovaries, the PCOS ovaries are less sensitive to endogenous LH regarding inhibin A secretion and more sensitive to exogenous FSH stimulation in terms of inhibin A and inhibin B secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Dafopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Thessalia, Larissa, Greece
| | - Christos Venetis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Thessalia, Larissa, Greece
| | - Christina I Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Thessalia, Larissa, Greece
| | - Spyros Pournaras
- Department of Microbiology, Medical School, University of Thessalia, Larissa, Greece
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Thessalia, Larissa, Greece
| | - Antonios Garas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Thessalia, Larissa, Greece
| | - Ioannis E Messinis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Thessalia, Larissa, Greece
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Messini CI, Dafopoulos K, Chalvatzas N, Georgoulias P, Anifandis G, Messinis IE. Effect of ghrelin and metoclopramide on prolactin secretion in normal women. J Endocrinol Invest 2011; 34:276-9. [PMID: 20530986 DOI: 10.1007/bf03347085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Administration of ghrelin to women stimulates the secretion of PRL but the mechanism is not known. AIM The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of the dopamine receptor blocker, metoclopramide, on ghrelin-induced PRL release. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Ten healthy normally cycling women were studied in the midluteal phase of 4 menstrual cycles. A single dose of normal saline (cycle 1), ghrelin (1 μg/kg) (cycle 2), metoclopramide (20 mg) (cycle 3), and ghrelin plus metoclopramide (cycle 4) was given to the women iv. Blood samples in relation to the iv injection (time 0) were taken at -15, 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, and 120 min. The response of PRL and GH was assessed. RESULTS Following ghrelin administration (cycles 2 and 4), plasma ghrelin and serum PRL and GH levels increased rapidly, peaking at 30 min (p<0.001). PRL was also increased after the injection of metoclopramide (p<0.001, cycle 3), but the increase was much greater than after the administration of ghrelin. The combination of ghrelin and metoclopramide stimulated PRL secretion to the same extent with metoclopramide alone. No changes in GH and PRL levels were seen after saline injection. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that the stimulating effect of ghrelin on PRL secretion is not additive with that of metoclopramide, although a dose range study might provide further information.
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Affiliation(s)
- C I Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Medical School, University of Thessalia, 41110 Larissa, Greece
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Anifandis G, Dafopoulos K, Messini C, Chalvatzas N, Messinis I. Effect of the Position of the Polar Body During ICSI on Fertilization Rate and Embryo Development. Reprod Sci 2010; 17:849-53. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719110372421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- G. Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Thessalia, Larissa, Greece,
| | - K. Dafopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Thessalia, Larissa, Greece
| | - C.I. Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Thessalia, Larissa, Greece
| | - N. Chalvatzas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Thessalia, Larissa, Greece
| | - I.E. Messinis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Thessalia, Larissa, Greece
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Fujii R, Fujita S, Waseda T, Oka Y, Takagi H, Tomizawa H, Sasagawa T, Makinoda S, Cavagna M, Braga DPAF, Figueira RCS, Aoki T, Maldonado LGL, Iaconelli A, Borges E, Prabhakar S, Dittrich R, Beckmann MW, Hoffmann I, Mueller A, Kjotrod S, Carlsen SM, Rasmussen PE, Holst-Larsen T, Mellembakken J, Thurin-Kjellberg A, Haapaniemi Kouru K, Morin Papunen L, Humaidan P, Sunde A, von During V, Pappalardo S, Valeri C, Crescenzi F, Manna C, Sallam HN, Polec A, Raki M, Tanbo T, Abyholm T, Fedorcsak P, Tabanelli C, Ferraretti AP, Feliciani E, Magli MC, Fasolino C, Gianaroli L, Wang T, Feng C, Song Y, Dong MY, Sheng JZ, Huang HF, Sayyah Melli M, Kazemi-shishvan M, Snajderova M, Zemkova D, Pechova M, Teslik L, Lanska V, Ketel I, Serne E, Stehouwer C, Korsen T, Hompes P, Smulders Y, Voorstemans L, Homburg R, Lambalk C, Bellver J, Martinez-Conejero JA, Pellicer A, Labarta E, Alama P, Melo MAB, Horcajadas JA, Agirregoitia N, Peralta L, Mendoza R, Exposito A, Matorras R, Agirregoitia E, Ajina M, Chaouache N, Gaddas M, Souissi A, Tabka Z, Saad A, Zaouali-Ajina M, Zbidi A, Eguchi N, Jinno M, Watanabe A, Hirohama J, Hatakeyama N, Choi YM, Kim JJ, Kim DH, Yoon SH, Ku SY, Kim SH, Kim JG, Lee KS, Moon SY, Hirohama J, Jinno M, Watanabe A, Eguchi N, Hatakeyama N, Jinno M, Watanabe A, Hirohama J, Eguchi N, Hatakeyama N, Xiong Y, Liang X, Li Y, Yang X, Wei L, Makinoda S, Tomizawa H, Fujita S, Takagi H, Oka Y, Waseda T, Sasagawa T, Fujii R, Utsunomiya T, Chu S, Li P, Akarsu S, Dirican EK, Akin KO, Kormaz C, Goktolga U, Ceyhan ST, Kara C, Nadamoto K, Tarui S, Ida M, Sugihara K, Haruki A, Hukuda A, Morimoto Y, Albu A, Albu D, Sandu L, Kong G, Cheung L, Lok I, Pinto A, Teixeira L, Figueiredo H, Pires I, Silva Carvalho JL, Pereira ML, Faut M, de Zuniga I, Colaci D, Barrios E, Oubina A, Terrado Gil G, Motta A, Colaci D, de Zuniga I, Horton M, Faut M, Sobral F, Gomez Pena M, Motta A, Gleicher N, Barad DH, Li YP, Zhao HC, Spaczynski RZ, Guzik P, Banaszewska B, Krauze T, Wykretowicz A, Wysocki H, Pawelczyk L, Sarikaya E, Gulerman C, Cicek N, Mollamahmutoglu L, Venetis CA, Kolibianakis EM, Toulis K, Goulis D, Loutradi K, Chatzimeletiou K, Papadimas I, Bontis I, Tarlatzis BC, Schultze-Mosgau A, Griesinger G, Schoepper B, Cordes T, Diedrich K, Al-Hasani S, Gomez R, Jovanovic V, Sauer CM, Shawber CJ, Sauer MV, Kitajewski J, Zimmermann RC, Bungum L, Jacobsson AK, Rosen F, Becker C, Andersen CY, Guner N, Giwercman A, Kiapekou E, Zapanti E, Boukelatou D, Mavreli T, Bletsa R, Stefanidis K, Drakakis P, Mastorakos G, Loutradis D, Malhotra N, Sharma V, Kumar S, Roy KK, Sharma JB, Ferraretti A, Gianaroli L, Magli MC, Crippa A, Stanghellini I, Robles F, Serdynska-Szuster M, Spaczynski RZ, Banaszewska B, Pawelczyk L, Kristensen SL, Ernst E, Toft G, Olsen SF, Bonde JP, Vested A, Ramlau-Hansen CH, Wang FF, Qu F, Ding GL, Huang HF, Gallot V, Genro V, Roux I, Scheffer JB, Frydman R, Fanchin R, Kanta Goswami S, Banerjee S, Chakravarty BN, Kabir SN, Seeber BE, Morandell E, Kurzthaler D, Wildt L, Dieplinger H, Tutuncu L, Bodur S, Dundar O, Ron - 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Posters * Reproductive Endocrinology (i.e. PCOS, Menarche, Menopause etc.). Hum Reprod 2010. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/de.25.s1.438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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