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European Journal of Obstetrics,... Aug 2022Dietary intake of omega-3 polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs) may be associated with successful assisted reproductive techniques (ART). However, heterogeneous studies were... (Review)
Review
Dietary intake of omega-3 polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs) may be associated with successful assisted reproductive techniques (ART). However, heterogeneous studies were conducted and opposing results were obtained. This systematic review aims to summarize the evidence on the effect of omega-3 dietary intake on oocyte and embryo quality for a positive ART outcome. The PRISMA 2020 statement was followed and the review protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021283881). Inclusion and exclusion criteria were: eligible studies examined women undergoing ART cycles whose diet was evaluated for omega-3 intake or experienced an increase in omega-3 compared with women who followed in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) but did not increase the omega-3 intake before the cycle. 5,412 records were identified and five studies were included in the analysis. Two studies focused on sub-fertile or infertile women specifically, yet all women in all studies went through IVF/ICSI procedures. All five studies demonstrated how omega-3 FAs may be beneficial by increasing the positive rate of ART outcomes and embryo quality evaluated according to morphology and morphokinetic parameters. More research focusing on comparable and/or equal outcomes is required to strengthen supporting evidence with the aim to provide valid recommendations for women seeking a pregnancy.
Topics: Diet; Eating; Fatty Acids, Omega-3; Female; Fertilization in Vitro; Humans; Infertility, Female; Male; Oocytes; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Rate; Reproductive Techniques, Assisted; Semen
PubMed: 35779332
DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2022.06.019 -
Theriogenology Sep 2022Modulation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/phosphatase and tensin homologue (PI3K/AKT/PTEN) pathway in mammals yields mixed results. A deep understanding...
Role of phosphoinositide 3-kinase/ protein kinase B/ phosphatase and tensin homologue (PI3K/AKT/PTEN) pathway inhibitors during in vitro maturation of mammalian oocytes on in vitro embryo production: A systematic review.
Modulation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/phosphatase and tensin homologue (PI3K/AKT/PTEN) pathway in mammals yields mixed results. A deep understanding of its regulation can be a powerful tool for better in vitro blastocyst production. This systematic review aims to map the evidence of PI3K/AKT/PTEN pathway modulation during in vitro maturation (IVM), to assess its effects on meiosis resumption and nuclear maturation progression of mammalian oocytes, and their impacts on embryo development and quality. A total of 1058 articles were screened in three databases, and 22 articles were included. Fifty-two IVM assessments were identified, among which 11 evaluated blastocyst yield. Three PI3K inhibitors (3-methyladenine, Wortmannin, and LY294002) and one AKT inhibitor (SH6) were investigated. The impact of this pathway modulation on meiosis resumption in swines and murines was not well established, depending on the inhibitor used, concentration, and media supplementation, while in bovines, resumption seems to be independent of PI3K/AKT/PTEN pathway. However, progression to metaphase II (MII) is highly controlled by this pathway on both bovines and swines. Studies that focused on the inhibition reversibility showed that the removal of the modulator produced MII rates similar to the control group. Experiments that aimed to temporarily block meiosis resumption or reduce PI3K activity resulted in blastocyst production equal to or even higher than control groups. Altogether, these data indicate the paramount potential of this pathway as a possible strategy to improve overall in vitro embryo production efficiency, by synchronizing both nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation.
Topics: Animals; In Vitro Oocyte Maturation Techniques; Mammals; Meiosis; Oocytes; Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase; Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases; Phosphoric Monoester Hydrolases; Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt; Tensins
PubMed: 35724451
DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.06.009 -
Fertility and Sterility Jun 2022To compare obstetric outcomes in patients cryopreserving reproductive cells or tissues before gonadotoxic therapy. (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
A comparison of fertility preservation outcomes in patients who froze oocytes, embryos, or ovarian tissue for medically indicated circumstances: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
OBJECTIVE
To compare obstetric outcomes in patients cryopreserving reproductive cells or tissues before gonadotoxic therapy.
DESIGN
A literature search was conducted following PRISMA guidelines on Embase, Medline, and Web of Science. Studies reporting obstetric outcomes in cancer patients who completed cryopreservation of oocyte, embryo, or ovarian tissue were included.
SETTING
Not applicable.
PATIENT(S)
Cancer patients attempting pregnancy using cryopreserved cells or tissues frozen before cancer therapy.
INTERVENTION(S)
Oocyte, embryo, or ovarian tissue cryopreservation for fertility preservation in cancer.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)
The total numbers of clinical pregnancies, live births, and miscarriages in women attempting pregnancy using cryopreserved reproductive cells or tissues were calculated. A meta-analysis determined the effect size of each intervention.
RESULT(S)
The search returned 4,038 unique entries. Thirty-eight eligible studies were analyzed. The clinical pregnancy rates were 34.9%, 49.0%, and 43.8% for oocyte, embryo, and ovarian tissue cryopreservation, respectively. No significant differences were found among groups. The live birth rates were 25.8%, 35.3%, and 32.3% for oocyte, embryo, and ovarian tissue cryopreservation, respectively, with no significant differences among groups. The miscarriage rates were 9.2%, 16.9%, and 7.5% for oocyte, embryo, and ovarian tissue cryopreservation, respectively. Significantly fewer miscarriages occurred with ovarian tissue cryopreservation than with embryo cryopreservation.
CONCLUSION(S)
This enquiry is required to counsel cancer patients wishing to preserve fertility. Although the limitations of this study include heterogeneity, lack of quality studies, and low utilization rates, it serves as a starting point for comparison of reproductive and obstetric outcomes in patients returning for family-planning after gonadotoxic therapy.
Topics: Abortion, Spontaneous; Cryopreservation; Female; Fertility Preservation; Humans; Neoplasms; Oocyte Retrieval; Oocytes; Pregnancy
PubMed: 35459522
DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.03.004 -
Reproduction (Cambridge, England) Apr 2022Genetic testing is becoming increasingly required at almost every stage of failed female reproduction/infertility. Nonetheless, clinical evidence for the majority of...
Genetic testing is becoming increasingly required at almost every stage of failed female reproduction/infertility. Nonetheless, clinical evidence for the majority of identified gene-disease relationships is ill-defined, thus leading to difficult gene variant interpretation and poor translation of existing knowledge into clinics. We aimed to identify the genes that have ever been implicated in monogenic female reproductive failure in humans and to classify the identified gene-disease relationship pairs using a standardized clinical validity assessment. A PubMed search following PRISMA guidelines was conducted on 20 September 2021 aiming to identify studies pertaining to genetic causes of phenotypes of female reproductive failure. The clinical validity of identified gene-disease pairs was assessed using standardized criteria, counting whether sufficient genetic and experimental evidence has been accumulated to consider a single gene 'characterized' for a single Mendelian disease. In total, 1256 articles were selected for the data extraction; 183 unique gene-disease pairs were classified spanning the following phenotypes: hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, ovarian dysgenesis, premature ovarian failure/insufficiency, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, empty follicle syndrome, oocyte maturation defect, fertilization failure, early embryonic arrest, recurrent hydatidiform mole, adrenal disfunction and Mullerian aplasia. Twenty-four gene-disease pairs showed definitive evidence, 36 - strong, 19 - moderate, 81 - limited and 23 - showed no evidence. Here, we provide comprehensive, systematic and timely information on the genetic causes of female infertility. Our classification of genetic causes of female reproductive failure will facilitate the composition of up-to-date guidelines on genetic testing in female reproduction, the development of diagnostic gene panels and the advancement of reproductive decision-making.
Topics: Female; Genetic Testing; Humans; Infertility, Female; Neoplasm Recurrence, Local; Oocytes; Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome; Pregnancy
PubMed: 35451369
DOI: 10.1530/REP-21-0486 -
International Journal of Molecular... Apr 2022Gamete membrane fusion is a critical cellular event in sexual reproduction. In addition, the generation of knockout models has provided a powerful tool for testing the... (Review)
Review
Gamete membrane fusion is a critical cellular event in sexual reproduction. In addition, the generation of knockout models has provided a powerful tool for testing the functional relevance of proteins thought to be involved in mammalian fertilization, suggesting IZUMO1 and TMEM95 (transmembrane protein 95) as essential proteins. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the process remain largely unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to summarize the current knowledge about IZUMO1 and TMEM95 during mammalian fertilization. Hence, three distinct databases were consulted-PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science-using single keywords. As a result, a total of 429 articles were identified. Based on both inclusion and exclusion criteria, the final number of articles included in this study was 103. The results showed that IZUMO1 is mostly studied in rodents whereas TMEM95 is studied primarily in bovines. Despite the research, the topological localization of IZUMO1 remains controversial. IZUMO1 may be involved in organizing or stabilizing a multiprotein complex essential for the membrane fusion in which TMEM95 could act as a fusogen due to its possible interaction with IZUMO1. Overall, the expression of these two proteins is not sufficient for sperm-oocyte fusion; therefore, other molecules must be involved in the membrane fusion process.
Topics: Animals; Cattle; Fertilization; Immunoglobulins; Male; Mammals; Membrane Proteins; Sperm-Ovum Interactions; Spermatozoa
PubMed: 35409288
DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073929 -
Women's Health (London, England) 2022Review the safety of fertility preservation through ovarian stimulation with oocyte or embryo cryopreservation, including cycle and medication options.
OBJECTIVE
Review the safety of fertility preservation through ovarian stimulation with oocyte or embryo cryopreservation, including cycle and medication options.
EVIDENCE REVIEW
A systematic review of peer-reviewed sources revealed 2 applicable randomized control trials and 60 cohort studies as well as 20 additional expert opinions or reviews.
RESULTS
The capacity for future family building is important for the majority of reproductive age people, despite life-altering medical or oncologic diagnosis. Modern fertility preservation generates a high rate of oocyte yield while utilizing protocols that can be started at multiple points in the menstrual cycle and suppressing supra-physiologic levels of estrogen. Finally, more than one quarter of fertility preservation patients will return to later utilize fertility services.
CONCLUSION
For most patients, fertility preservation can safely be pursued and completed within 2 weeks without affecting disease severity or long-term survival.
Topics: Cohort Studies; Cryopreservation; Female; Fertility Preservation; Humans; Neoplasms; Oocytes; Ovulation Induction
PubMed: 35130799
DOI: 10.1177/17455065221074886 -
Poultry Science Mar 2022Globally, the production of Pekin ducks for meat and eggs is considerable, with an estimated >200 million ducks slaughtered yearly for their meat in the United States... (Review)
Review
Globally, the production of Pekin ducks for meat and eggs is considerable, with an estimated >200 million ducks slaughtered yearly for their meat in the United States and the European Union alone. However, despite the size of the Pekin duck industries, there is a lack of research-based guidance regarding the welfare of the ducks. The purpose of this systematic review is to examine and summarize available scientific literature related to the welfare of Pekin ducks raised on commercial farms for meat and eggs. Specifically, we aimed to identify topics where sufficient literature exists to support best-practice duck welfare recommendations, as well as further research needs. The literature search targeted original research papers and review articles published in English. Six pre-establish inclusion/exclusion criteria were applied, yielding 63 publications. We summarized their content based their main topic of focus. For all original studies, we additionally recorded the country where the study was executed, scale of the project (commercial or experimental barns), general information about the housing system and management (waterers, flooring, ventilation, group size, and space allowance), and the types of outcome variables collected. We begin with an overview of key publication trends. We then synthesize and discuss welfare outcomes related to key housing/management decisions: bathing water, flooring and litter, stocking density and space availability, ventilation/air quality, lighting, outdoor access, and for egg laying birds the availability of nest boxes. Throughout, we outline specific research gaps, as well as overarching research needs.
Topics: Animal Welfare; Animals; Ducks; Meat; Ovum
PubMed: 35042179
DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2021.101614 -
The World Journal of Men's Health Jul 2022Oocytes and spermatozoa are electrogenic cells with the ability to respond to electrical stimuli and modulate their electrical properties accordingly. Determination of...
PURPOSE
Oocytes and spermatozoa are electrogenic cells with the ability to respond to electrical stimuli and modulate their electrical properties accordingly. Determination of the ionic events during the gamete maturation helps to design suitable culture media for gametes in assisted reproductive technology (ART). The present systematic review focuses on the electrophysiology of human gametes during different stages of maturation and also during fertilization.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
The reports published in the English language between January 2000 and July 2021 were extracted from various electronic scientific databases following the PRISMA checklist using specific MeSH keywords.
RESULTS
Subsequent to the screening process with defined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 60 articles have been included in this review. Among them, 11 articles were directly related to the electrophysiology of human oocytes and 49 physiology department to the electrophysiology of human spermatozoa.
CONCLUSIONS
Gametes generate electrical currents by ionic exchange, particularly Na, K, Cl, H, Zn, Cu, Se, Mg, HCO, and Ca through specific ion channels in different stages of gamete maturation. The ionic concentrations, pH, and other physicochemical variables are modulated during the gametogenesis, maturation, activation, and the fertilization process following gamete function and metabolism. The electrical properties of human gametes change during different stages of maturation. Although it is demonstrated that the electrical properties are significant regulators of cell signaling and are fundamental to gamete maturation and fertilization, their exact roles in these processes are still poorly understood. Further research is required to unveil the intricate electrophysiological processes of human gamete maturation.
PubMed: 35021309
DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.210107 -
Journal of Assisted Reproduction and... Jan 2022Does existing scientific literature suggest an impact of oocyte dysmorphisms on biological or clinical outcomes of assisted reproduction treatments?
PURPOSE
Does existing scientific literature suggest an impact of oocyte dysmorphisms on biological or clinical outcomes of assisted reproduction treatments?
METHODS
Studies of interest were selected from an initial cohort of 6651 potentially relevant records retrieved. PubMed was systematically searched for peer-reviewed original papers and reviews identified by keywords and medical subject heading (MeSH) terms. The most relevant publications were critically evaluated to identify criteria for oocyte morphological evaluation and IVF outcomes. For each morphological abnormality, we generated an oocyte literature score (OLS) through the following procedure: (a) papers showing a negative, absence of, or positive correlation between a given abnormality and IVF outcome were scored 1, 0, and - 1, respectively; (b) the sum of these scores was expressed as a fraction of all analyzed papers; (c) the obtained fraction was multiplied by 10 and converted into decimal number.
RESULT
We identified eleven different dysmorphisms, of which six were extracytoplasmic (COC, zona pellucida, perivitelline space, polar body 1, shape, giant size) and five intracytoplasmic (vacuoles, refractile bodies, SER clusters, granularity, color). Among the extracytoplasmic dysmorphisms, abnormal morphology of the COC generated an OLS of 8.33, indicating a large prevalence (5/6) of studies associated with a negative outcome. Three intracytoplasmic dysmorphisms (vacuoles, SER clusters, and granularity) produced OLS of 7.14, 7.78, and 6.25, respectively, suggestive of a majority of studies reporting a negative outcome.
CONCLUSION
COC morphology, vacuoles, SER clusters, and granularity produced OLS suggestive of a prevalence of studies reporting a negative outcome.
Topics: Humans; Oocytes; Oogenesis; Zona Pellucida
PubMed: 34993709
DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02370-3 -
Biology of Reproduction Feb 2022The ovary is the first organ to age in humans with functional decline evident already in women in their early 30s. Reproductive aging is characterized by a decrease in...
The ovary is the first organ to age in humans with functional decline evident already in women in their early 30s. Reproductive aging is characterized by a decrease in oocyte quantity and quality, which is associated with an increase in infertility, spontaneous abortions, and birth defects. Reproductive aging also has implications for overall health due to decreased endocrinological output. Understanding the mechanisms underlying reproductive aging has significant societal implications as women globally are delaying childbearing and medical interventions have greatly increased the interval between menopause and total lifespan. Age-related changes inherent to the female gamete are well-characterized and include defects in chromosome and mitochondria structure, function, and regulation. More recently, it has been appreciated that the extra-follicular ovarian environment may have important direct or indirect impacts on the developing gamete, and age-dependent changes include increased fibrosis, inflammation, stiffness, and oxidative damage. The cumulus cells and follicular fluid that directly surround the oocyte during its final growth phase within the antral follicle represent additional critical local microenvironments. Here we systematically review the literature and evaluate the studies that investigated the age-related changes in cumulus cells and follicular fluid. Our findings demonstrate unique genetic, epigenetic, transcriptomic, and proteomic changes with associated metabolomic alterations, redox status imbalance, and increased apoptosis in the local oocyte microenvironment. We propose a model of how these changes interact, which may explain the rapid decline in gamete quality with age. We also review the limitations of published studies and highlight future research frontiers.
Topics: Cumulus Cells; Female; Follicular Fluid; Humans; Oocytes; Ovarian Follicle; Pregnancy; Proteomics
PubMed: 34982142
DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab241