Chorionic Gonadotropin Hormone Research Articles

Pregnancy detection based on blood serum sample Raman spectroscopy.

In this research, women were diagnosed as pregnant based on blood serum samples Raman spectroscopy. Raman spectroscopy is a vibrational technique that provides information on the chemical composition of samples. The Raman techniques have significantly impacted the study of various degenerative diseases, particularly cancer detection, using less invasive methods such as the analysis of blood serum samples. Additionally, these techniques have been used to study the health status of patients, which is often difficult to monitor using conventional techniques. This study obtained serum samples from 12 women diagnosed as pregnant and 11 non-pregnant volunteers (controls). Spectra were collected using a LabRAM HR800 Raman Spectrometer (Horiba Jobin-Yvon) with an 830 nm wavelength laser. For each serum sample, 10 Raman spectra were obtained by focusing the laser, using a microscope objective, on different points of the sample with an exposure time of 40 seconds and an irradiation power of 17 mW. The raw spectra were processed using baseline correction and smoothing to remove noise, fluorescence, and shot noise. Subsequently, the spectra were normalized and analyzed using the multivariate statistical method of Principal Component Analysis (PCA). In these spectra, the characteristic bands of main blood serum biomolecules such as phenylalanine (Phe), tyrosine (Tyr), glutathione, amide III, phospholipid, carotene, and tryptophan (Trp) can be observed. Nevertheless, when analyzing the average spectra of pregnant and non-pregnant women, the main spectral differences were associated with variations in molecules like glutathione, tryptophan (Trp), tyrosine, and phenylalanine, which occur during the first trimesters of pregnancy. This aligns with findings previously reported by other studies. Furthermore, the serum samples from pregnant and non-pregnant patients can be effectively discriminated using PCA applied to the Raman spectra, revealing two distinct clusters in the PCA plot corresponding to each group's status. The results demonstrate that pregnancy can be determined based on blood serum samples Raman spectroscopy with sensitivity and specificity. Although there are very effective devices on the market to determine pregnancy based on the Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) hormone detection in urine samples, these preliminary results indicate an alternative method known as Raman spectroscopy. On the other hand, the results could also suggest the possibility of carrying out other gynecological or fetal-related studies in women using these Raman techniques.

Gestational Trophoblastic Tumours: Experience of the Oncology Department of the Moulay Ismail Military Hospital in Meknes (10 Cases)

Gestational trophoblastic tumors (GTTs) are the malignant forms of gestational trophoblastic diseases. They always follow a pregnancy, most often molar. The diagnosis of GTT is based on an abnormal course of HCG (chorionic gonadotropin hormone) and/or signs of ultrasound invasion and/or histological confirmation. We report a retrospective series of 10 cases of GTT collected at the Medical Oncology Department of the Moulay Ismail Military Hospital in Meknes over an 8-year period from January 2012 to January 2020. The analysis of our series led to the conclusion that: The average age of onsetis 42 years. 90% of our patients were pauciparic. The causal pregnancy was in 90% of the cases a molar pregnancy. The extension assessment was mainly based on the TAP CT identifying the lung as the main metastatic site in 40% of cases. 5 patients (50% of cases) underwent hysterectomy with post operative chemotherapy. 60% of our patients were classified as low risk according to the FIGO score and received methotrexate mono-chemotherapy. 4 patients were classified as high-risk and were treated with poly chemotherapy, the main protocol of which was EMA-CO. All our patients benefited from clinical and biological monitoring, before each chemotherapy session; then weekly and monthly after negativation, up to 12 months in case of good prognosis GTT, and up to 18 months in case of bad prognosis GTT. One case of MTX relapse (the case of IPTT) was reported and for which a 2nd line CMT with a favourable evolution was indicated. This study allowed us to analyze the cure rate, which was 100% for patients who were treated and had completed their monitoring.

HLA-DQB1 as a potential prognostic biomarker of hormonal therapy in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia

The gonadotropin treatment of infertile men may improve spermatogenesis and lead to sperm cell production, however, only a small fraction of treated patients positively responds to such therapy. To identify individual treatment prognostic biomarkers associated with responsiveness to gonadotropins, we compared the gene expression profiles of testicular oligobiopsies from 3 patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) who positively responded to therapy with a combination of human chorionic gonadotropin and recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (hCG/rFSH) to those of 3 non-responders. We used Affymetrix Human Gene 1.0 ST microarrays. The results of the microarray evaluation were validated by the qPCR technique while gene variants of the HLA-DQB1 (major histocompatibility complex, class II, DQ beta 1) were subsequently sequenced. In our microarrays, we have identified most significantly 5 transcripts with different expression levels in responders versus non-responders groups. Our interest has been primarily focused on the transcript associated with the HLA-DQB1 gene. Because the expression of this gene was up-regulated in the non-responding patients and only patients with heterozygotic alleles of HLA-DQB1 turned out to be positive to gonadotropin therapy, we suggest that this gene may be a biomarker of potential significance for the gonadotropin treatment of male infertility. We also compared the testicular gene expression profile in one individual before and after gonadotropin treatment. In the re-biopsied sample, we have identified over 600 genes that showed differences in testicular expression; some of these genes are critical for spermiogenesis. Thus, we documented that the applied gonadotropins successfully stimulated the spermatogenetic wave in patients with NOA.

The Effect of Prenatal Yoga on Emesis Gravidarum in the First Trimester Pregnant Women

Background: Increased levels of progesterone, estrogen, and HCG (chorionic gonadotropin hormone) during the first trimester of pregnancy can produce morning sickness, also known as emesis gravidarum (nausea and vomiting). To lessen the release of hormones that induce anxiety, severe nausea, and vomiting, prenatal yoga practitioners can block the stimulation of sympathetic nerves by practicing muscle relaxation. This study aims to ascertain how prenatal yoga affects first-trimester emesis gravidarum. Method: This study used a pre-experimental design with a pretest-posttest design in one group, involving 16 mothers who had emesis gravidarum at PMB Fatimah Bandung Rejosari, Sukun, Malang. Data collection was done using the questionnaire. Results: The result was that two prenatal yoga sessions over two weeks demonstrated significant benefits. Prenatal yoga affects emesis gravidarum in the first trimester of pregnancy, as indicated by the independent t-test technique (2-tailed) of 0.000 <0.005. Discussion: Steroid hormones can slow down stomach emptying, which causes emesis gravidarum. Excessive or low cortisol levels can be brought back to normal with yoga. Yoga offers numerous mental and physical health advantages. Conclusion We can conclude that the course of treatment impacts the severity of emesis gravidarum, or nausea and vomiting, during the first trimester of pregnancy.

Post molar choriocarcinoma with solitary renal metastasis in the absence of primary uterine tumor: a case report and review of the literature

BackgroundChoriocarcinoma is a rare and highly malignant form of gestational trophoblastic disease that may develop following pregnancy, abortion, or a hydatiform mole. Renal metastatic involvement by post molar choriocarcinoma is even rarer. In this case report, we describe a unique case of post molar choriocarcinoma with a solitary renal metastasis in the absence of a primary uterine tumor and metastases in other sites, which presented with urological symptoms and spontaneous renal hemorrhage.Case presentationA 41-year-old Persian woman with history of complete hydatiform mole presented with severe flank pain, nausea, vomiting, gross hematuria, and vaginal bleeding. Laboratory tests demonstrated a serum beta human chorionic gonadotropin hormone level of 60,000 mIU/mL. Imaging studies showed a lesion at the lower pole of the left kidney with active bleeding surrounded by hematoma, as well as an empty uterine cavity. Additionally, bilateral pleural effusion was detected without any lesion within the lungs. Subsequently, the patient underwent laparotomy, partial nephrectomy, and left para-ovarian cystectomy. Endometrial curettage was also carried out. The histopathology report revealed choriocarcinoma renal metastasis with high expression of beta human chorionic gonadotropin, cytokeratin 7, and Ki 67. Moreover, there were no malignant cells in the endometrial curettage specimens, and a corpus luteum cyst was found within the para-ovarian cyst. Further investigations revealed that the pleural effusion was free of malignant cells, and there was no evidence of metastatic lesions in the brain. As a result, the patient was referred to the oncology department to receive chemotherapy, and the beta human chorionic gonadotropin levels dropped to 5 mIU/mL after receiving courses of a standard regimen of etoposide, methotrexate, actinomycin D, cyclophosphamide, and vincristine/oncovin over 3 weeks. Finally, monthly measurements of beta human chorionic gonadotropin levels for 6 months indicated that levels have constantly remained within normal ranges, showing no evidence of recurrence or new metastasis.ConclusionsUrological symptoms such as hematuria or spontaneous renal hemorrhage might be the only presentation of post molar choriocarcinoma with renal involvement. Thus, it can be beneficial to measure serum beta human chorionic gonadotropin levels among females of childbearing age who present with unexplained urological symptoms, especially if there is a history of prior hydatiform mole.

Outcomes of Laparoscopic Approach to Cesarean Scar Pregnancy (CSP).

Cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) is a rare long-term complication after cesarean delivery. In clinical practice, its diagnosis and management is very important because it may be associated with serious consequences. Although a wide range of treatment options have been reported, the best treatment is unrecognized yet. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of laparoscopy in CSP. This non-randomized single-arm clinical trial was conducted on 43 CSP patients who were referred to the educational and medical centers of Isfahan University of Medical Science from 2021 to 2022. All the patients were treated by laparoscopy, and during follow-up, the pregnancy test was measured weekly until the test was negative, and an ultrasound was performed 6 months later. Myometrial thickness and occurrence of isthmocele were checked and recorded. Abnormal uterine bleeding or pelvic pain were also evaluated 6 months later. Mean time of surgery was 55.12 ± 10.61 minutes, and the rate of intraoperative bleeding was 62.93 ± 24.00 cc. Four cases had excess intraoperative bleeding: two of them received packed cells, and two led to laparotomy. After surgery, the time to negative pregnancy test was 19.21 ± 5.50 days and 4 (10.3%) patients had isthmocele in follow-up sonography. Human chorionic gonadotropin hormone (BHCG) decreased significantly after surgery (percentage reduction: 97.71 ± 3.80; P value < 0.001) and myometrial thickness increased significantly (percentage increase: 46.94 ± 28.66; P value < 0.001). Laparoscopic excision of a CSP is an effective and feasible technique with the advantage of an immediate myometrial reconstruction.

Studies on Biosensors- Recent Developments and Future Perspectives on Biotechnological Applications: An Overview

The current review compiles the recent trends and future applications of biosensors in many fields of Biotechnology to detect various biological and biochemical entities in the fields of environmental biotechnology, food biotechnology, medical science and agriculture biotechnology. A biosensor is a an analytical or bioreceptor-integrated device that determines the concentration of analyte in a medium and provides quantitative information. The biosensors that monitors the air, soil and water are whole cell-based biosensors that use microbial cell to detect polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), heavy metals, waterborne bacterial pathogens, measure indoor air quality (IAQ), etc. In this review, plant diseases caused by various pathogens are detected by nucleic acid-based affinity biosensors. In this article, authors also focus on medical-based biosensors that monitor the concentration of various biomolecules such as human chorionic gonadotropin hormone (hCG), glucose, etc. to detect pregnancy and other diseases. Apart from this, it also includes food technology and processing-based biosensors to determine and verify the food quality by detecting microbial contaminants, nutrient contents and product freshness by detecting biogenic amines, lactic acid, etc. This review provides new insights into developing certain fascinating and economically interesting models likely to be eco-friendly. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Establishment of a 3D multicellular placental microtissues for investigating the effect of antidepressant vortioxetine

The placenta is a unique organ with an active metabolism and dynamically changing physiology throughout pregnancy. It is difficult to elucidate the structure of cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions of the placenta in in vivo studies due to interspecies differences and ethical constraints. In this study, human umbilical cord vein cells (HUVEC) and human placental choriocarcinoma cells (BeWo) were co-cultured for the first time to form spheroids (microtissues) on a three-dimensional (3D) Petri Dish® mold and compared with a traditional two-dimensional (2D) system. Vortioxetine is an antidepressant with a lack of literature on its use in pregnancy in established cultures, the toxicity of vortioxetine was studied to investigate the response of spheroids representing placental tissue. Spheroids were characterised by morphology and exposed to vortioxetine. Cell viability and barrier integrity were then measured. Intercellular junctions and the localisation of serotonin transporter (SERT) proteins were demonstrated by immunofluorescence (IF) staining in BeWo cells. Human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG) hormone levels were also measured. In the 3D system, cell viability and hormone production were higher than in the 2D system. It was observed that the barrier structure was impaired, the structure of intracellular skeletal elements was altered and SERT expression decreased depending on vortioxetine exposure. These results demonstrate that the multicellular microtissue placenta model can be used to obtain results that more closely resemble in vivo toxicity studies of various xenobiotics than other 2D and mono-culture spheroid models in the literature. It also describes the use of 3D models for soft tissues other than the placenta.

Ffect Peppermint Aromatherapy Inhalation Reducing Nausea And Vomiting In First Trimester Of Pregnancy

The Nausea and vomiting in pregnant women in the first trimester was physiologically due to an increase in the Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin (HCG) hormone which affects the digestive system, causing complaints of nausea and vomiting. One of them was handling nausea and vomiting by administering peppermint aromatherapy inhalation. Peppermint had a sharp menthol aroma, a distinctive cold refreshing smell, and the smell of menthol which had properties against contractions by inhibiting muscle contact caused by serotonin hormone so that it could successfully overcome nausea and vomiting in pregnant women. This study aims to determine the differences in nausea and vomiting before and after administration of peppermint aromatherapy inhalation dose, 0,1-0,2 ml for 1-10 minutes to pregnant women in their first This type of research was quasi-experimental, one-group pre-and post-test design. The number of samples was 48 respondents intervention and treatments, with the sampling method "purposive sampling" type of non-probability sampling. The data collection tool was a Pregnancy Unique Quantification of Emesis and Nausea (PUQE) questionnaire. Data analysis techniques used univariate and bivariate analysis. The results of data analysis used the Wilcoxon test and obtained a p-value of 0. 000 p 0. 05. This means that there were differences in nausea and vomiting before and after giving peppermint aromatherapy inhalation to pregnant women in their first trimester. It is expected that pregnant women use peppermint aromatherapy inhalation to treat nausea and vomiting because it does not have a toxic effect on the health of the mother and fetus.

The hyperthyroidism in gestational trophoblastic disease: a case report

Gestational trophoblastic disease, also referred to as GTD, is an extremely rare form of pregnancy-related complication that can arise. It covers a wide range of conditions, from choriocarcinoma to molar pregnancy. Patients who are diagnosed with gestational trophoblastic disease have an increased likelihood of developing hyperthyroidism. It is speculated that this occurs as a result of molecular mimicry that exists between human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which results in cross-reactivity with the TSH receptor. This would explain why the two molecules would react similarly to each other. The gestational trophoblastic disease-induced thyroid storm is an extremely rare but potentially fatal complication that can arise during pregnancy. It is necessary to detect and treat this complication as soon as possible in order to prevent additional complications from occurring. Once the patient's hemodynamic status has been stabilized, the removal of the mole is the primary component of the definitive treatment that will be administered. In most cases, hyperthyroidism usually resolves once the gestational trophoblastic disease has been successfully treated and the hCG levels have been brought back to normal.

Evaluation of the effect of extrasystolic arrhythmia in pregnant women on fetal condition

Relevance much attention is paid to the problem of the effect of extrasystolic arrhythmia in pregnant women on the condition of the fetus. The aim of the study is to study the effect of extrasystolic arrhythmia in pregnant women on the condition of the fetus by cardiotocography. Material and methods. 32 pregnant women with extrasystole (group 1) and 30 without arrhythmia (group 2) were examined in the 3rd trimester from the 32nd week of pregnancy. All pregnant women of both groups underwent daily registration of electrocardiography (ECG), ultrasound examination of the heart, fetal cardiotocography (CTG of the fetus), determination of the level of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), prolactin and thyroid hormones. Results. The correlation analysis revealed a close relationship between the number of fetal cardiotocography scores and the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) (r = 0,917, p &lt;0,01), free thyroxine (T4c) (r = -0,877, p &lt; 0,01) and the number of extrasystoles (r = -0,872, p &lt; 0,01) in pregnant women. Conclusion. In pregnant women with and without extrasystole, there are differences between reproductive hormones and electrocardiography indicators within the reference values. It was found that in pregnant women with and without extrasystole, fetal cardiotocography indicators do not significantly differ. A quantitative threshold value of ventricular extrasystole was revealed to reduce the number of fetal cardiotocography scores in the third trimester from week32. The threshold value of extrasystole was 1500 per day, AUC (area under curve) – 0,792, sensitivity – 81,3 %, specificity – 100,0 %.

Quantification of hCG Hormone Using Tapered Optical Fiber Decorated with Gold Nanoparticles.

In this study, a novel technique for the quantification of the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) hormone using localized surface plasmons and a tapered optical fiber decorated with gold nanoparticles (Au-NPs) is reported. The tapered optical fiber fabrication process involves stretching a single-mode optical fiber using the flame-brushing system. The waist of the tapered optical fiber reaches a diameter of 3 μm. Decoration of the taper is achieved through the photodeposition of 100 nm Au-NPs using the drop-casting technique and a radiation source emitting at 1550 nm. The presence of the hCG hormone in the sample solutions is verified by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), revealing the presence of bands related to functional groups, such as C=O (1630 cm-1), which are associated with proteins and lipids, components of the hCG hormone. Quantification tests for hormone concentrations were carried out by measuring the optical power response of the tapered optical fiber with Au-NPs under the influence of hCG hormone concentrations, ranging from 1 mIU/mL to 100,000 mIU/mL. In the waist of the tapered optical fiber, the evanescent field is amplified because of localized surface plasmons generated by the nanoparticles and the laser radiation through the optical fiber. Experimental results demonstrated a proportional relationship between measured radiation power and hCG concentration, with the optical power response decreasing from 4.45 mW down to 2.5 mW, as the hCG hormone concentration increased from 1 mIU/mL up to 100,000 mIU/mL. Furthermore, the spectral analysis demonstrated a spectral shift of 14.2 nm with the increment of the hCG hormone concentration. The measurement system exhibits promising potential as a sensor for applications in the biomedical and industrial fields.

SAT481 Metastatic Choriocarcinoma, A Rare Cause of hCG-Mediated Hyperthyroidism

Abstract Disclosure: S. Jain: None. M. Crabtree: None. C. Houston: None. Background: Structural homology between human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and thyrotropin stimulating hormone (TSH) allows high levels of hCG to exert thyrotropic effects via TSH receptors. Although hCG-mediated hyperthyroidism is most frequently encountered in the context of pregnancy, it also occurs rarely as a paraneoplastic syndrome. We present a case of hCG-mediated hyperthyroidism due to metastatic choriocarcinoma in a postmenopausal woman. Case Presentation: A previously healthy 59-year-old woman was evaluated for shortness of breath and found to have multiple lung nodules concerning for metastatic malignancy. Further imaging demonstrated an enlarged heterogeneous uterus with an enlarged endometrial cavity. Endometrial biopsy revealed poorly differentiated carcinoma with some areas of possible squamous differentiation. Subspecialty cytopathology review was requested. One week after biopsy, the patient was brought to the emergency department with acute hypoxic respiratory failure following a seizure. She was found to be febrile, tachycardic, hypertensive, and minimally responsive. Head CT revealed a left frontal brain mass with surrounding vasogenic edema, concerning for metastasis. Laboratory evaluation revealed TSH of 0.03 mIU/L (normal 0.35-4.94) and free T4 of 2.30 ng/dL (normal 0.70-1.48). Thyroid stimulating immunoglobulin was negative. Beta-hCG was found to be significantly elevated at 982,093 mIU/mL after 1:100 dilution. She was started on treatment with propranolol, dexamethasone, and chemotherapy with etoposide and cisplatin. Meanwhile, cytopathology review identified scattered cells with features of choriocarcinoma and positive hCG immunostaining, felt to represent a diagnosis of poorly differentiated choriocarcinoma. After one cycle of chemotherapy, the patient’s beta-hCG decreased to 477,668 mIU/mL and free T4 decreased to 1.05 ng/dL. Due to progressive worsening of her clinical status, she was transitioned to palliative care and passed away on hospital day 14. Discussion: Hyperthyroidism mediated by hCG is most often seen in patients with hyperemesis gravidarum, gestational transient thyrotoxicosis, or gestational trophoblastic disease. Our case underscores the importance of considering hCG-mediated hyperthyroidism outside the context of pregnancy. Rare paraneoplastic sources of hCG include choriocarcinoma, seminoma, and other germ cell tumors. Hyperthyroidism in these cases is usually subclinical or mild, but instances of thyroid storm have been reported with metastatic disease. Beta blockers, glucocorticoids, and thionamides can be used as temporizing measures, but definitive therapy requires treatment of the causative malignancy. Presentation Date: Saturday, June 17, 2023

Impact of baseline luteinizing hormone (LH) level and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) on pregnancy outcomes in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients undergoing IVF/ICSI cycle in antagonist protocol

Introduction: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine and metabolic disorder often associated with infertility. There are several factors that could impair the pregnancy outcomes of PCOS patients. The latter endocrine profile along with high baseline luteinizing hormone (LH), high LH/follicle-stimulating hormone ratio, as well as high anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels appear detrimental for patients undergoing In vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of baseline LH and AMH levels on pregnancy outcomes in PCOS patients performing IVF/ICSI cycles in an antagonist protocol. Materials and methods: The current investigation is a retrospective cohort study conducted at IVF Tiziri Center in Algiers on PCOS patients undergoing IVF/ICSI from January 2017 to March 2021. According to the Rotterdam criteria, patients aged between 23 and 42 years were divided into 2 groups: group 1 (G1) =91 patients; group 2 (G2) =100 all patients had an LH level &gt;10 IU/L. Both groups had AMH levels &gt;5 ng/mL. Controlled ovarian stimulation was done with a fixed antagonist protocol, as for the ovulation it was triggered with human chorionic gonadotropin or gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist. Fresh and frozen embryo transfers were, thereafter, evaluated. Concerning the statistical analysis, it was done with SPSS software. Results: The mean LH level was 15.16±7.08 for G1 versus 5.7±1.86 for G2 (P=10−6), mean LH/follicle-stimulating hormone ratio 2.71±1.36 in G1 versus 1.05±0.44 (P=10−6) and mean AMH level was 9.27±3.90 for G1 versus 7.53±2.76 for G2 with (P&lt;10−3). The mean follicles over 11 mm in diameter, estradiol (E2) level, and progesterone level on the trigger day did not differ significantly between G1 and G2. Also, the mean of oocytes and metaphase II oocytes retrieved fertilization, and blastulation rate were similar for both groups. The pregnancy rate for G1 was 40.6% versus 54% (P&gt;0.05); the ongoing pregnancy rate (OPR) was 28.6% in G1 versus 47% in G2 (P=0.078); and the miscarriage rate was 32.4% for G1 versus 12.9 for G2 (P=0.072). A univariate analysis was performed with all confounder factors supposed to impact pregnancy outcomes: AMH level did not impact pregnancy outcomes, whereas LH level &lt;11 IU/L has been determined as a threshold impacting positively on OPR with odds ratio=2.01 (95% CI: 1.05–3.87). After a multivariate logistic regression including con-founders, 3 factors significantly influence OPR: LH, E2, and infertility with known etiology. Conclusion: The high baseline LH level impairs pregnancy outcomes in PCOs patients undergoing an antagonist protocol IVF/ICSI cycle. The identification of PCOS patients by their endocrine profile enables the establishment of a prognosis for council patients and a plan for an individualized therapeutic strategy.

Effect of human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) and luteinizing hormone releasing hormone A3 (LHRH-A3) on reproduction and development of brood pouch in Hippocampus erectus

Syngnathid fishes (seahorses and pipefish) are unique in reproduction, with males becoming pregnant and giving birth. The brood pouch provides osmoregulation, gas exchange, waste transport, immunoprotection and nutrition supply. However, the function of hormone trafficking is rarely studied. By injecting the mixture liquor of human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG, 2 IU/g) and luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone A3 (LHRH-A3, 5 ng/g) into the brood pouch of Hippocampus erectus, we found the reproductive interactions accelerated dramatically, and 4 pairs were successfully mated. After 24 h, the inner epithelium was highly folded and the loose connective tissue layer was highly distended. In the inner tissue layer of the brood pouch, fibroblasts secreted vigorously, blood vessels multiplied and expanded, indicating the physiological structure of the brood pouch modified hastily from the unpregnant stage to the progravid phase. Correspondingly, transcriptome results revealed the gene expression of circadian, epitheliogenesis, angiogenesis, lipid transfer, and spermiogenesis were significantly up-regulated. We innovatively found that macromolecule exogenous hormone (HCG) can be not only efficiently transported from brood pouch to body, but also promote mating and the physiological changes of the brood pouch.

PHEMA-based cryogels as 3D placental scaffolds

The placental barrier regulates the passage of nutrients, waste, drugs, and chemicals between maternal and fetal tissues. Mono and co-culture systems were constituted with human placental choriocarcinoma cells (BeWo) and human umbilical cord vein cells (HUVEC) on biocompatible poly (2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PHEMA)-based cryogels. PHEMA cryogels were supported with extracellular matrix (ECM) elements. According to the Fourier transform infrared spectrometry-Attenuated Total Reflectance (FTIR-ATR) results, it was confirmed that gelatin, folic acid (FA), fibronectin (FN), and collagen type IV (COL Type IV) were successfully incorporated into the structure of cryogels. The mean pore size of the cryogels confirmed by micro-computed tomography analysis was in the range of 15–195 µm. The antidepressant active ingredient Vortioxetine was investigated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol2-yl)− 2,5-diphenyltetrazolium-bromide (MTT) viability analysis in the constituted cryogel co-culture system. The cryogels did not cause any toxic effect on the cells. High doses of Vortioxetine showed reduced cell viability in monocultures, but not the expected reduction in cell viability at the same doses of co-culture. The highest amount of human chorionic gonadotropin hormone was in the PHEMA+COL Type IV+FA group. There were no significant changes in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2 and 9 protein levels due to Vortioxetine dose administration.

Case Report: The effect of Kumari Taila Uttar Basti treatment on a patient diagnosed with bilateral cornual blockage in the Fallopian tube

Fallopian tube irritation is referred to as cornual block. It is brought on by a bacterial infection in the Fallopian tube, which spreads via sexuallty transmitted infection (STI), urinary tract infection (UTI), among others. Salpingitis is another name for fallopian tube inflammation. The patient, a 40-year-old registered at an infertility clinic, Sarangi Wardha, was examined for a cornual block using hysteroscopy and laparoscopy, which revealed the uterus and fallopian tube’s structural detail. The couple had been married for two years. It was noted that the patient had a history of failed IUI (intrauterine insemination) at her hometown fertility clinic. The patient anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) was 0.16ng/dL, and her anti-follicular count (AFC) was poor. The intrauterine insemination failed as a result of cornual obstruction. The semen parameters of the male partner were normal. Bilateral ostia with sparse endometrium were seen during hysteroscopy. We had used Uttar Basti therapy for six days with a three-day gap. After treating the cornual block, patient’s ovum collection was done in January 2020. Fourteen oocytes were retrieved from the patient which were of 2GV, 5MI, and 7MII grade. Semen parameters were reportedly normal, but due to cornual block, ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) was performed. In March 2020, her first frozen embryo was thawed and transferred. A 2mg tablet of estrogen was given three times daily before the embryo transfer, from the second day of menstruation until the 14th. The patient had daily progesterone injections for six days beginning after the fourteenth day. Following embryo transfer, progesterone 2mg twice a day was given support and a dose of estrogen 2mg every day. A beta-human chorionic gonadotrophin hormone (hCG) test was performed fourteen days after embryo transfer. The report indicated positive beta-HCG value. The patient’s Fallopian tubes bilateral cornual obstruction is the main subject of this case report.

Attenuating effects of selenium and zinc against hexavalent chromium-induced oxidative stress, hormonal instability, and placenta damage in preimplanted rats.

As a toxic metal, hexavalent chromium (CrVI) has effects on both the reproductive and endocrine systems. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) against the toxicity of chromium on the placenta in pregnant Wistar albino rats. Thirty pregnant Wistar rats were divided into control and four treated groups, receiving subcutaneously (s.c) on the 3rd day of pregnancy, K2Cr2O7 (10mg/kg body weight (bw)) alone, or in association with Se (0.3mg/kg bw), ZnCl2 (20mg/kg bw), or both of them simultaneously. Plasma steroid hormones, placenta histoarchitecture, oxidative stress profile, and developmental parameters were investigated. These results showed that K2Cr2O7 exposure induced a significant increase in the levels of both plasma estradiol (E2) and placenta malondialdehyde (MDA), the number of fetal resorptions, and percent of post-implantation loss. On the other hand, K2Cr2O7 significantly reduced developmental parameters, maternal body and placenta weight, and plasma progesterone (P) and chorionic gonadotropin hormone (β HCG) levels. However, K2Cr2O7 significantly decreased the placenta activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), reduced glutathione (GSH), and nonprotein sulfhydryl (NPSH). These changes have been reinforced by histopathological evaluation of the placenta. Se and/or ZnCl2 supplementation provoked a significant improvement in most indices. These results suggest that the co-treatment with Se or ZnCl2 strongly opposes the placenta cytotoxicity induced by K2Cr2O7 through its antioxidant action.

Gene Editing of the Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Gene to Sterilize Channel Catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, Using a Modified Transcription Activator-like Effector Nuclease Technology with Electroporation

Follicle-stimulating hormone (fsh) plays an important role in sexual maturation in catfish. Knocking out the fsh gene in the fish zygote should suppress the reproduction of channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus). In this study, transcription activator-like effector nuclease (TALEN) plasmids targeting the fsh gene were electroporated into fertilized eggs with the standard double electroporation technique. Targeted fsh cleavage efficiency was 63.2% in P1fsh-knockout catfish. Ten of fifteen (66.7%) control pairs spawned, and their eggs had 32.3-74.3% average hatch rates in 2016 and 2017. Without hormone therapy, the spawning rates of P1 mutants ranged from 33.3 to 40.0%, with an average egg hatching rate of 0.75%. After confirmation of the low fertility of P1 mutants in 2016, human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) hormone therapy improved the spawning rates by 80% for female mutants and 88.9% for male mutants, and the mean hatch rate was 35.0% for F1 embryos, similar to that of the controls (p > 0.05). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) identification showed no potential TALEN plasmid integration into the P1 channel catfish genome. Neither the P1 nor the F1 mutant fish showed any noticeable changes in in body weight, survival rate, and hatching rate when the reproductive gene was knocked out. F1 families had a mean inheritance rate of 50.3%. The results brought us one step closer to allowing implementation of certain genetic techniques to aquaculture and fisheries management, while essentially eliminating the potential environment risk posed by transgenic, hybrid, and exotic fish as well as domestic fish.

The availability of gonadotropin therapy from FDA-approved pharmacies for men with hypogonadism and infertility.

Recent changes to the Biologics Price Competition and Innovation Act of 2009 have created barriers to accessing therapy for men utilizing gonadotropins for hypogonadism and infertility. In this study we sought to investigate ways to decrease disparities in the treatment of male hypogonadism by increasing access to gonadotropin therapy by identifying 503b outsourcing pharmacies which currently provide gonadotropin therapy. A review of 503b compounding pharmacies was performed using the online published registry available from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Each pharmacy was contacted regarding their ability to provide gonadotropin therapy. Pharmacies were also queried regarding the impact of FDA-related legal changes and cost considerations. The study outcomes were the number and location of FDA-approved 503b compounding pharmacies supplying human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) and/or follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) for the treatment of male hypogonadism and infertility. The 81 503b-compounding pharmacies approved by the FDA to produce hCG and FSH therapy were identified using the FDA registry. Seventy-five of the 81 pharmacies responded to the survey (response rate92.6%). Of the contacted pharmacies, 5 provided hCG (6.67%). Of the pharmacies offering compounded hCG, 4 offered FSH. No additional pharmacies offered compounded FSH. Eight pharmacies had previously provided hCG and FSH. Six of the 8 pharmacies that stopped making hCG and FSH cited the 2020 FDA mandate as the reason for halting compounding services. Of the 75 pharmacies that responded, only 1 pharmacy provided the cost for FSH ($287 per 100-IU vial), and 3 pharmacies provided the cost for hCG ($50-$83 per 10 000-IU vial). There are few FDA-approved outsourcing pharmacies currently providing male gonadotropin therapy, and increasing awareness of these pharmacies may decrease barriers to care for patients with male hypogonadism and infertility. The strengths of this article are the clinical utility of the data presented, as this article may serve as a tool for clinicians to increase patient access to therapy. All FDA-approved 503b outsourcing pharmacies were contacted, and 92.6% participated in this project. Limitations of this article were the following: no non-FDA-approved compounding pharmacies such as 503a pharmacies were contacted, participant-reported outcomes were utilized, and only 3 contacted outsourcing pharmacies provided a cost for FSH or hCG, allowing for an unknown degree of cost variability between outsourcing pharmacies. There currently exists limited access to FDA-approved compounded gonadotropin therapies for hypogonadism and male infertility, and these results demonstrate the barriers to hCG and FSH access and the need for additional treatment options for this vulnerable patient population.