Dose Of hCG Research Articles

First ovarian response to gonadotrophin stimulation in rats exposed to neonatal androgen excess.

This study analyzes the effects of neonatal androgenization on follicular growth and first ovulation in response to gonadotrophins, using a model of exogenous stimulation or the use of subcutaneous ovary grafts in castrated animals to replace the hypothalamus-pituitary signal. Neonatal rats (days 1-5) were treated with testosterone, dihydrotestosterone or vehicle. At juvenile period, rats were stimulated with PMSG, hCG (alone or combined) or used as ovarian donors to be grafted on castrated adult female rats. Ovulation and ovarian histology were analyzed in both groups. Animals treated with vehicle or dihydrotestosterone stimulated with gonadotrophins (pharmacological or by using an ovary graft) ovulated, showing a normal histological morphology whereas rats exposed to testosterone and injected with the same doses of gonadotrophins did not it. In this group, ovulation was reached using a higher dose of hCG. Ovaries in the testosterone group were characterized by the presence of follicles with atretic appearance and a larger size than those observed in control or dihydrotestosterone groups. A similar appearance was observed in testosterone ovary grafts although luteinization and some corpora lutea were also identified. Our findings suggest that neonatal exposure to aromatizable androgens induces a more drastic signalling on the ovarian tissue that those driven by non-aromatizable androgens in response to gonadotrophins.

Effect of Low-dose Human Chorionic Gonadotropin on the Prevention of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome and in Vitro Fertilization Outcome

Background & aim: Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a rare but most potentially life-threatening disorder in women under in vitro fertilization (IVF). This study aimed to determine the effect of low-dose human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) on the prevention of OHSS and IVF outcome. Methods: This single-blind non-randomized clinical trial was performed from October 2008 to November 2012 in Motahari Hospital, Urmia, Iran. Overall, 202 infertile women undergoing IVF treatment were divided into two groups based on OHSS risk factors. Then, 87 women with serum estradiol level of 5000-8000 pg/ml received 5000 units of intramuscular hCG, and 115 women with serum estradiol level of > 8000 pg/ml, who were at high risk for OHSS, received 1600 units of hCG. Data were analyzed using independent t-test and Chi-square test in SPSS, version 16. Results: There were no significant differences in age, infertility duration, infertility factor, quality of embryo, pregnancy rate and number of abortions and OHSS rate between the groups (P>0.05). The group that received 1600 units of hCG was in a better condition regarding the mean number of ova (11.45±5.41 versus 9.24±4.24; P=0.01), mean number of good quality ova (11.10± 5.47 versus 8.68± 4.03; P=0.001), and mean number of embryos (7.38± 4.24 versus 5.53± 2.85; P=0.001). There was no significant difference in the rate of OHSS incidence and cancellation of embryo transfer between the two groups (1600 and 5000 units). Conclusion: Overall, the current study indicated that prescribing 1600 units of hCG in women who are at risk of hypersensitivity reaction may induce similar or perhaps better results regarding the quantity and quality of ova and embryos, however, OHSS risk is not completely eliminated by using a lower dose of hCG. It is therefore suggested to perform randomized clinical trials with greater sample size to verify these results.

The Use of Power Mode Doppler Ultrasonography as a Predictive Tool of Early Pregnancy in the Mare

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) has been used to induce ovulation and as a luteotrophic agent in cattle. However, the effect of hCG therapy on the functional status of the equine corpus luteum (CL) is unclear. This study aimed to characterize the hemodynamic and secretory function of early CL of mares treated with different doses of hCG at distinct stages of the estrous cycle. Mares were assigned to nine experimental groups (n = 6 mares/group) according to dose of hCG and time of treatment. A single injection of one of three different doses of hCG (750, 1,500, or 2,500 IU) was performed in one of three distinct stages of the estrous cycle: preovulatory follicle ≥35 mm, day of ovulation (D0), or 48 hours after ovulation (D2). In addition, a control group treated with NaCl 0.9% was included in the study. The end points evaluated daily from D0 to D8 were area of the CL, luteal vascularity, number of colored pixels and total pixel intensity, and concentrations of plasma progesterone (P4). No effect (P > .1) of dose or time of treatment was observed for any end point, within each day. Luteal area did not differ throughout the days (P > .1), whereas Doppler parameters and concentrations of plasma P4 presented a progressive increase (P < .05) after ovulation in all groups. Secretory function and luteal hemodynamic were not affected (P > .1) by hCG dose and time of treatment. In conclusion, hCG therapy during estrus or early diestrus, at the doses tested, did not improve P4 secretion or luteal blood flow.

Broodstock development, induced breeding and larval rearing of Indian pompano, Trachinotus mookalee, (Cuvier, 1832) – A new candidate species for aquaculture

The present study describes the first trial on broodstock development, induced breeding and larval rearing of Indian pompano, Trachinotus mookalee. Indian pompano fingerlings were collected from wild and raised to adults having an average size of 2.84 ± 0.10 kg weight and 47.6 ± 1.43 cm length. These adult fishes were stocked in 125 t capacity circular tank having re-circulatory facility for broodstock development. The fishes were fed with squid along with clam meat and matured in four months. Mature females with >500 μm ova and oozing males were selected in the ratio of 1:2 (female:male) and were induced with single dose of hCG at the rate of 350 IU /kg body weight. Three trials with same sex ratio and hormonal doses were tried. The fish spawned after 36–38 h of induction at a temperature 29 ± 1 °C. Eggs were collected and treated with iodophore and stocked in 1 t FRP tank for hatching. The eggs hatched out after 18–20 h of incubation at a temperature of 29 ± 1 °C. The overall fertilization and hatching rate was found to be 69 ± 1.55% and 87.67 ± 0.81%, respectively. Larval rearing was carried out in 2 t capacity fibre reinforced plastic (FRP) tanks using green water system. The newly hatched larvae was 2.12 ± 0.02 mm in total length, with an oval shaped yolk sac of 0.55 mm2 and an oil droplet of 0.06 mm2 in area. The mouth opening was formed 40–46 h post hatch with mouth gape measuring 228.10 ± 1.31 μm. A systematic and overlapping regime of live feed beginning from copepod nauplii, rotifer, Artemia nauplii and artificial pellet were utilized during larval rearing. Weaning of larvae to inert diet was started from 15th day post hatching (DPH) onwards. Larvae started metamorphosis by 17th DPH onwards and was completed by 21st DPH, when the larvae reached 27.33 ± 0.10 mm. The larval rearing protocol resulted in an average survival rate of 21.53 ± 1.45% till complete metamorphosis. The present study showed T. mookalee to mature in captive conditions. The potential for induced spawning in captivity and larval rearing with a survival rate of 21.53% makes Indian pompano an excellent candidate for mariculture. This forms the first report of broodstock development, induced breeding and larval rearing of this species in captivity. The results of this study would facilitate mass scale seed production of Indian pompano in captivity, which is essential for its aquaculture.

Dual trigger with gonadotropin-releasing hormone and human chorionic gonadotropin for poor responders

Objective:To compare metaphase II (MII) rate, fertilization rate, and embryo quality with dual trigger gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH) and normal dose human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) versus a normal dose hCG trigger in antagonist intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles of poor ovarian responders.Material and Methods:Patients defined as poor ovarian responders according to the Bologna criteria who underwent ICSI with GnRH antagonist protocol and triggered with dual trigger or hCG alone for oocyte maturation. Main outcome measures were MII rate, fertilization rate, and embryo quality.Results:Total gonadotropin doses and E2 levels on trigger day were higher in the hCG trigger group. There were no significant differences with regard to implantation rate (p=0.304), biochemical pregnancy rate (p=0.815), clinical pregnancy rate (p=0.378), and ongoing pregnancy rate (p=0.635) between the groups.Conclusion:Dual trigger of oocyte maturation with GnRH agonist and normal dose hCG in poor responders does not demonstrate improved oocyte maturation, clinical pregnancy, and ongoing pregnancy rates.

Outcomes of random start versus clomiphene citrate and gonadotropin cycles in occult premature ovarian insufficiency patients, refusing oocyte donation: a retrospective cohort study

The aim of this study is to present the clinical outcomes of a random start, a spontaneous folliculogenesis protocol versus Clomiphene Citrate and Gonadotropin treatment in women with occult premature ovarian insufficiency. Women underwent treatment between 1 February 2009, and 30 May 2016. 41 women were treated with the random start protocol while 48 cases received ovarian stimulation with clomiphene and gonadotropins. All included cases met the criteria of 4 months of oligo-ovulation, follicular-stimulating hormone levels over 30 IU/L and anti-Mullerian hormone levels below 0.30 ng/mL. The random start protocol involved following the subjects for up to 6 months until spontaneous folliculogenesis occurred. The mean number of oocytes collected, mature oocytes, fertilized oocytes, and grade II embryos were significantly higher in the random start protocol (p < .05). The doses of gonadotropin administration and hCG were significantly lower in the random start protocol (p < .05). The clinical pregnancy and live birth rates were significantly higher in the random start protocol (p < .05). Likely stimulation is of little benefit in women with occult premature ovarian insufficiency. Observation while waiting for spontaneous folliculogenesis results in better outcomes, and less oocyte collections.

Regulation and Functional Studies of Tribbles homolog 2 (TRIB2) in Ovarian Granulosa Cells

Tribbles homolog (TRIB) 1, 2 and 3 represent atypical members of the serine/threonine kinase superfamily and are homologs of Drosophila tribbles. TRIB2 mRNA is rapidly induced by mitogens, has a short half‐life, and is expressed in a cell‐specific manner. We previously identified TRIB2 as a differentially expressed gene in granulosa cells (GC) of bovine preovulatory follicles. This study aimed to further investigate TRIB2 mRNA and protein regulation, to identify its binding partners, and study its function in GC of bovine dominant follicles. Granulosa cells were obtained from follicles at different developmental stages: small follicles (SF: 2–4 mm), dominant follicles (DF) at day 5 of the estrous cycle (day 0 = day of the estrous), ovulatory follicles (OF) 24 h following injection of an ovulatory dose of hCG, and corpus luteum (CL) at day 5 of the estrous cycle. RT‐qPCR analyses showed greatest expression of TRIB2 in GC of DF, while the weakest expression was in OF (P &lt; 0.0001). Temporal expression of TRIB2 mRNA was further studied in follicular walls (granulosa and theca cells) obtained from ovulatory follicles recovered at 0, 6, 12, 18 and 24 h after hCG injection. There was a 20‐ and 166‐fold reduction of TRIB2 steady‐state mRNA levels in follicular walls, respectively at 6 and 24 hours post‐hCG as compared to 0 hour (P &lt; 0.001). Additionally, we have generated specific anti‐TRIB2 polyclonal antibodies that confirmed, in western blot analyses, TRIB2 downregulation by LH/hCG at the protein level. Yeast two‐hybrid screening of a DF‐cDNA library as well as functional studies using the CRISPR‐Cas9 approach are currently being used to identify TRIB2 binding partners and its function in GC. These results support a physiologically relevant role of TRIB2 in follicular development and GC function.Support or Funding InformationResearch supported by internal funds from Université de Montréal to KN and NSERC of Canada grant # 104199 to JGL.This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.

MP07-16 CONCOMITANT TESTOSTERONE BASED ON HCG TREATMENT RESULTED IN EARLIER MASCULINIZATION AND NO INFERIOR SPERMATOGENESIS COMPARED TO HCG ALONE IN TREATMENT OF IHH PATIENTS

You have accessJournal of UrologyInfertility: Therapy II1 Apr 2018MP07-16 CONCOMITANT TESTOSTERONE BASED ON HCG TREATMENT RESULTED IN EARLIER MASCULINIZATION AND NO INFERIOR SPERMATOGENESIS COMPARED TO HCG ALONE IN TREATMENT OF IHH PATIENTS Yinwei Chen, Yonghua Niu, Hao Xu, Daoqi Wang, Hongyang Jiang, Gaurab Pokhrel, Tao Wang, Shaogang Wang, and Jihong Liu Yinwei ChenYinwei Chen More articles by this author , Yonghua NiuYonghua Niu More articles by this author , Hao XuHao Xu More articles by this author , Daoqi WangDaoqi Wang More articles by this author , Hongyang JiangHongyang Jiang More articles by this author , Gaurab PokhrelGaurab Pokhrel More articles by this author , Tao WangTao Wang More articles by this author , Shaogang WangShaogang Wang More articles by this author , and Jihong LiuJihong Liu More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.juro.2018.02.3079AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookTwitterLinked InEmail INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES The primary goal in treatment of idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) is to induce masculinization and spermatogenesis. Exogeneous testosterone (T) can induce masculinization but not spermatogenesis and rather may be associated with impaired spermatogenesis. This retrospective study aims to determine whether concomitant T based on HCG treatment show significantly harmful impacts on spermatogenesis in IHH patients compared HCG alone. METHODS A total of 107 male IHH patients were recruited and were divided into group A (n=54) and group B (n=53) according to their choices. The study protocol was approved by the ethics committee of Huazhong University of Science and Technology. Group A received intramuscular dose of HCG, while group B received HCG combined with testosterone undecanoate (TU). In both groups, HCG was injected with initial dosage of 2000IU twice weekly. Group B received additional 40mg oral dose of TU twice daily. Patients were regularly followed up and their HCG dosages were adjusted to maintain serum T in the normal range at each visit. SPSS version 23.0 was used to for data analysis and the Tanner stage, testicular volumes, hormone levels, semen parameters and side effects were compared between the two groups. RESULTS The median follow-up time was 31.3 months. Significant improvements were seen in Tanner stages, testicular volumes, hormone levels and semen parameters in both groups between pre- and post-treatment period (P < 0.001). Compared to the group A, the median time to achieve Pubic hair Tanner stage III, V and genital Tanner stage III, V was significantly shorter in group B (P < 0.05), and its median time to achieve normal T was also significantly shorter (P < 0.001). But there were no significant differences in terms of testicular volume and sperm concentration. The median time to achieve spermatogenesis, sperm concentration =15×106/ml and progressive motility rate = 32% showed no remarkable differences between the two groups. In addition, group B showed no significant side effects, especially in terms of gynecomastia. CONCLUSIONS Concomitant T based on HCG treatment was associated with earlier masculinization and no adverse effect on spermatogenesis compared to HCG alone, which suggested that it may be a good alternative treatment option for IHH patients, especially promoting development of confidence and build better compliance during initial stage of gonadotropin treatment probably. © 2018FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 199Issue 4SApril 2018Page: e94 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2018MetricsAuthor Information Yinwei Chen More articles by this author Yonghua Niu More articles by this author Hao Xu More articles by this author Daoqi Wang More articles by this author Hongyang Jiang More articles by this author Gaurab Pokhrel More articles by this author Tao Wang More articles by this author Shaogang Wang More articles by this author Jihong Liu More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Does luteal phase support by human chorionic gonadotropin improve pregnancy outcomes in frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles?

Abstract Objective The present study was aimed to investigation the effect of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) administration on the implantation and pregnancy outcomes in the frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles. Design This is a cross sectional retrospective study. Setting Research and Clinical Center for Infertility of Yazd. Materials and methods Totally, 200 FET cycles categorized into two groups: (A) hCG treatment group (N = 100), the patients received 3 doses of hCG after embryo transfer (ET); and (B) control group (N = 100), the patients received routine protocol. Finally, chemical and clinical pregnancy, and also implantation rates were compared between two groups. Results All the cycles into two groups were matched regarding to demographic and basic characteristics. Moreover, there were significant differences between groups regarding chemical pregnancy ( P = 0.048), clinical pregnancy ( P = 0.041). There was a trend towards decrease of miscarriage rate in hCG treatment group, although differences were not significant (P = 0.434). Conclusion Findings revealed an improvement in pregnancy rates following hCG administration in FET cycles.

Luteal Coasting and Individualization of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Dose after Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Agonist Triggering for Final Oocyte Maturation-A Retrospective Proof-of-Concept Study.

Ovarian stimulation in a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist protocol with the use of GnRH agonist for final oocyte maturation is the state-of-the-art treatment in patients with an expected or known high response to avoid or at least reduce significantly the risk for development of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Due to a shortened LH surge after administration of GnRH agonist in most patients, the luteal phase will be characterized by luteolysis and luteal phase insufficiency. Maintaining a sufficient luteal phase is crucial for achievement of a pregnancy; however, the optimal approach is still under debate. Administration of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) within 72 h rescues the corpora lutea function; however, the so far often used 1,500 IU still bear the risk for development of OHSS. The recently introduced concept of “luteal coasting” individualizes the luteal phase support by monitoring the progesterone concentrations and administering a rescue dosage of hCG when progesterone concentrations drop significantly. This retrospective proof-of-concept study explored the correlation between hCG dosages ranging from 375 up to 1,500 IU and the progesterone levels in the early and mid-luteal phases as well as the likelihood of pregnancy, both early and ongoing. The chance of pregnancy is highest with progesterone level ≥13 ng/ml at 48 h postoocyte retrieval. Among the small sample size of 52 women studied, it appears that appropriate progesterone levels can be achieved with hCG dosages as low as 375 IU. This may well optimize the chance of pregnancy while reducing the risk of OHSS associated with higher doses of hCG supplementation in the luteal phase.

Effect of different chorionic gonadotropins on final growth of the dominant follicle in Bos indicus cows

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of eCG or hCG on the final growth of the dominant follicle in Nelore (Bos indicus) cows submitted to fixed-time AI (FTAI). Eighty-four lactating cows with body condition score (BCS) of 2.9 (range 1–5) were used. At a random day of the estrous cycle (D0) cows received 2 mg estradiol benzoate and a reused intravaginal progesterone device (1.9 g). At D8, when the device was removed, 0.5 mg cloprostenol and 1 mg estradiol cypionate was given i.m., and cows were randomly assigned to receive on D8 one of the following treatments: Control (no treatment; n = 17), eCG (300 IU i.m.; n = 17), hCG 300 (300 IU i.m.; n = 18), hCG 200 IM (200 IU i.m.; n = 16) and hCG 200 SC (200 IU s.c.; n = 16). On the same day and 2 days later, cows were subjected to ovarian ultrasonography to evaluate the diameter of the largest follicle and to calculate follicular growth rate (D8 to D10). No differences were observed for the diameter of the largest follicle on D8 (P = 0.3) or D10 (P = 0.4) among treatments. However, the growth rate of the dominant follicle between D8 and D10 was greater for the groups eCG and hCG 300 and there were no differences between the other treatments (Control = 1.1 mm/day; eCG = 1.8 mm/day; hCG 300 = 1.8 mm/day; hCG 200 IM = 1.3 mm/day; hCG 200 SC = 1.3 mm/day; P = 0.02). In addition, more cows from the Group hCG 300 presented premature ovulation (44.4%) than cows from Control (5.8%), eCG (0%), or hCG 200 IM (12.5%), but did not differ from Group hCG 200 SC (18.7%). Regardless of treatment, the size of the largest follicle on D8 was different between cows that presented premature ovulation vs. cows that did not ovulate prematurely (11.3 mm vs. 9.9 mm, respectively; P = 0.01). Treatment with different hCG doses on D8 of a FTAI protocol failed to produce similar effects compared to eCG in terms of final follicular growth support and greater ovulatory follicle size. In addition, the groups hCG 300 and hCG 200 SC induced premature ovulation in a greater portion of cows. Thus, a single administration of hCG on D8 does not appear to be a reliable alternative to eCG treatment in FTAI protocols.

Histological and Histochemical Changes Induced by Human Chorionic Gonadotropin on Prostate of Adult albino Rats

Aims of the study: To evaluate the histological and histochemical changes induced by human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) on the adult prostate and to correlate the changes with the levels of testosterone. Materials and Methods: eighty adult male albino rats were divided into 4 groups; 3 treated and 1 control. The treated groups were received 10, 50 or 100 IU/kg BW of hCG, while the controls received normal saline. The doses were given twice weekly for 3 months via subcutaneous injections. Subsequently, on day 1, 30, 60 and 90 post therapy, blood samples and the prostate glands were obtained for evaluation. Results: All the doses of hCG caused accumulation of secretory products within the prostate, which resulted in dilatation of the acinar lumens, reduction of the mucosal folds, and non dose dependent diminution in height of the lining epithelial cells. Moreover, foci of hyperplasic cells were observed in the prostate. The therapy increased the collagen fibers of the gland. The general distribution of the Periodic Acid-Sciff (PAS) +ve material was not altered. Most of these changes were reversible within 3 months. Conclusions: Treatment with hCG causes accumulation of secretory products within the prostate and in turn affects the structure of the prostate.

Efeito de aplicação do hormônio hcg em machos de diferentes variedades de tilápia do Nilo Oreochromis Niloticus

Este trabalho tem como objetivo avaliar o efeito do horário de aplicação da gonadotrofina coriônica humana (hCG), sobre os parâmetros reprodutivos de 40 machos das variedades de tilápias do Nilo GIFT e UFLA. O experimento foi conduzido no Laboratório de Recirculação de Água da Estação de Piscicultura, do Departamento de Zootecnia da Universidade Federal de Lavras - MG. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial 2 x 4 (duas variedades e quatro horários de aplicação do hCG) com cinco repetições. Foram utilizados 20 machos da variedade GIFT e 20 machos da variedade UFLA, microchipados e alojados em um sistema de recirculação de água. Os horários foram 6, 12, 18 e 24 horas. A dosagem de hCG foi realizada em dose única. Foram analisadas as variáveis: taxa e duração da motilidade espermática, morfologia espermática, volume de sêmen e a concentração de espermatozoides do sêmen. Os dados obtidos foram submetidos à análise da variância e as médias foram comparadas pelo teste SNK a 5% de significância. O horário de aplicação e a variedade utilizada nao influenciaram as variáveis analisadas, porém a variedade UFLA apresentou um maior número de animais que espermiaram. A concentração apresentou uma media de 5,73 x 105 espermatozoide/mL para a variedade UFLA e 4,71 x 105 espermatozoide/mL para a variedade GIFT. O volume de sêmen encontrado para a GIFT foi de 0,9 mL enquanto para a UFLA foi de 0,6 mL. A motilidade espermática encontrada foi de 96,5% com duração de 4,33 minutos para a variedade UFLA e 88,4% com duração de 4,8 minutos para variedade GIFT. A quantidade de células espermáticas normais apresentou uma média de 86,35% para a variedade UFLA e 86,46% para a variedade GIFT. A indução com hCG em diferentes horários de aplicação não apresentou diferença significativa sobre os parâmetros de qualidade espermática dos machos de tilápia.

Effect of Induced Breeding of Clarias lazera using Hormones of HCG

This study was conducted to determine the artificial breeding performance of optimum dosage of hormones HCG to induce spawning in Clarias gariepinus at a hatchery. Three doses were prepared first treatmentT1(3000IU),second treatmentT2(2000IU), and finally treatmentT3(1000IU). Fish Body weight before injection with no significant(p>0.05). after injection there was significant between treatment (p 0.05).

Use of Basal Serum Testosterone Level as Predictor for Poor Ovarian Response in Women with Unexplained Infertility Undergoing &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;In Vitro&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; Fertilization Cycle: Prospective Study

Background: Delayed pregnancy in women and marked increase in the numbers of older women who fail to respond to ovarian stimulation had been a significant issue. This study aims to assess the value of basal serum testosterone level as a predictor of ovarian response for induction of ovulation in women with unexplained infertility undergoing IVF (in vitro fertilization) cycle. Patients and Methods: A prospective study was conducted in Ain Shams University Maternity hospital Infertility Center during a period of time from October 2016 to June 2017. This study recruited 89 women. On day 2 or 3 of a spontaneous menstrual cycle of the included women within 3 months before fresh IVF cycle, basal hormonal (FSH, LH, estradiol, total testosterone) concentrations, AFC (antral follicle count) were performed. Using the Long-protocol for induction of ovulation, serial monitoring of ovarian response was assessed by transvaginal ultrasound. When the expected ovarian response was reached (at least three oocytes ≥ 17 mm), we gave trigger dose of HCG. Ultrasound guided oocyte aspiration was performed 34 - 36 hours later. Two to three days after oocyte aspiration, we transferred the embryos according to the patient’s age and the condition of embryos available. Biochemical pregnancy was considered if serum B-hCG test was positive at day 14 from embryo transfer, where all the data were correlated with serum testosterone level and ovarian response as 1 ry outcome. Results: There were significant positive correlations between testosterone and LH, Prolactin, AFC, Number of oocytes & Number of Embryos (0.014, 0.032, 0.023, 0.004, 0.033, p 0.001 respectively). Poor responders versus good responders as regards testosterone level (0.81 ± 0.47 versus 1.08 ± 0.45) Fertilized & pregnant cases had significantly higher testosterone than non-fertilized & non pregnant had (1.20 ± 0.45, 0.92 ± 0.47 p value 0.035, 0.021 respectively). Yet, testosterone had significant low diagnostic performance in prediction of poor response and pregnancy (AUC 0.654, 0.676 respectively), (p value 0.015, 0.022 respectively). Conclusion: Basal T levels are helpful for predicting ovarian response, hence the dosage of gonadotropins used in induction. But it can’t be used as single marker for prediction of ovarian response.

Effects of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin on the Testis of Adult Albino Rats: A Histological and Histochemical Study

Aims of the study: To evaluate the histopathological changes induced by human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) on the adult testis and to correlate the changes with the levels of testosterone, LH and FSH, as well as to assess their reversibility. Methods: 80 adult male albino rats were divided into 4 groups; 3 treated and 1 control. The treated groups were received 10, 50 or 100 IU/kg BW of hCG, while the controls received normal saline. The doses were given twice weekly for 3 months via S.C. injections. Subsequently, on day 1, 30, 60 and 90 post therapy, blood samples and the testes were obtained for evaluation. Results: Low dose of hCG caused increase in number of germ and Sertoli cells. Contrary, higher doses decreased their population, and resulted in exfoliation of the germ cells. Furthermore, reduction in the thickness of the tubular basement membrane, congestion of the inter-tubular blood vessels and interstitial bleeding were observed in the higher dose groups. All the doses caused interstitial oedema, hyperplasia and hypertrophy of Leydig cells, as well as diminution in the collagen fibers. All these changes were reversible within 3 months. Conclusions: Only the low doses of hCG stimulate the spermatogenesis, whereas higher doses suppress sperm production.

Human chorionic gonadotropin in vitro: Effects on rat sperm motility and fertilization outcome

Objective: To investigate the effect of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) on the motility of rat sperm and the fertilization rate following in vitro fertilization. Methods: hCG concentrations of 25, 50, 75 and 100 ng/mL with incubation time of 1 h and 2 h were used in medium to study sperm motility. Then, 25 and 100 ng/mL of hCG with incubation time of 2 h were applied for in vitro fertilization. After 6 h, the number of two pronuclei was counted. Obtained data was subjected to one way ANOVA and Bonferroni-Dun hoc-post test. Results: Total motility and progressive motility of sperms were increased significantly (P<0.05) in hCG experimental group with concentration of 25 ng/L and incubation time of 2 h compared to control group, however, total motility and progressive motility of sperms were decreased significantly (P<0.05) with increasing dose of hCG. Fertilization rate was decreased significantly (P<0.05) in hCG experimental group with dose of 100 ng/mL compared to 25 ng/mL and control group. Conclusions: The effect of hCG on the rat sperm motility and the rate of their fertility is dose-dependent so that hCG with dose of 25 ng/mL leads to an increase in rat sperm motility and to some extent fertilization rate.

The effects of low-dose human chorionic gonadotropin combined with human menopausal gonadotropin protocol on women with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism undergoing ovarian stimulation for in vitro fertilization.

To investigate the effects of low-dose human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) combined with human menopausal gonadotropin (HMG) protocol on cycle characteristics and outcomes of infertile women with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH) undergoing ovarian stimulation for in vitro fertilization (IVF). A retrospective cohort study. Tertiary-care academic medical centre. Forty-six infertile patients with HH and seventy-one infertile patients with tubal factor (TF) infertility undergoing IVF. In the study group, all 46 HH patients were given low-dose hCG (50-300IU/d) in combination with HMG daily from cycle day 3. Meanwhile, a control group consisting of 71 patients with tubal factor infertility was set up, where the infertile women were given triptorelin 3.75mg on cycle day 3 for desensitization and started stimulation with HMG only 5weeks later. Transvaginal ultrasound and serum sex steroids were used for monitoring the development of follicles. Ovulation was triggered by hCG 5000IU when dominant follicles matured. Viable embryos were transferred on the third day after ovum pickup or cryopreserved for later transfer. The primary outcome measure was the clinical pregnancy rate. Secondary outcomes included hCG day P4, ratio of E2/follicle count, number of oocytes retrieved, number of viable embryos, implantation rate, ongoing pregnancy rate and cumulative pregnancy rate. With lower basal FSH, LH and E2, HH patients showed longer HMG stimulation duration (13 (10-22) d vs 12 (8-18) d, P<.001) and higher HMG dose (2960±560 IU vs 2663±538 IU, P=.005). Whilst the antral follicle count (AFC), number of follicles with diameters greater than 10mm on trigger day and oocytes retrieved were less in the HH group, the number of follicles with diameters greater than 14mm and viable embryos were comparable. The ratio of E2/follicle count (>10mm) and E2/follicle count (>14mm) were distinctively higher in the HH group (1056±281 vs 830±245, P<.001; 1545±570 vs 1312±594pmol/L, P=.037; respectively). The clinical pregnancy rate, implantation rate, ongoing pregnancy rate and cumulative pregnancy rate per woman were comparable between the two groups. Comparison among the subgroups with different hCG dosage showed that HMG duration shortened with the increase of daily hCG dose (14.84±2.88 vs 13.96±2.63 vs 12.96±1.30days, P=.037). No significant differences were detected in outcomes between fresh embryo transfer (ET) group and frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) group. Low-dose hCG combined with HMG is a feasible protocol for HH women undergoing ovarian stimulation in IVF, providing favourable cycle characteristics and pregnancy rates. Low-dose hCG reduces HMG duration, whilst the hCG dose and embryo quality are not positively correlated. The outcomes of FET are comparable to ET, which provides a greater chance of success from IVF in the low responders with HH.

Single-dose pharmacokinetic study comparing the pharmacokinetics of recombinant human chorionic gonadotropin in healthy Japanese and Caucasian women and recombinant human chorionic gonadotropin and urinary human chorionic gonadotropin in healthy Japanese women.

PurposeRecombinant hCG (r‐hCG) was approved in Japan in 2016. As a prerequisite for a Phase III study in Japan related to this approval, the pharmacokinetic (PK) profile of r‐hCG was investigated.MethodsAn open‐label, partly randomized, single‐center, single‐dose, group‐comparison, Phase I PK‐bridging study was done that compared a single 250 μg dose of r‐hCG with a single 5000 IU dose of urinary hCG (u‐hCG) in healthy Japanese women, as well as comparing a single 250 μg dose of r‐hCG in Japanese and Caucasian women. The Japanese participants were randomized 1:1 to receive either r‐hCG or u‐hCG, while the Caucasian participants were weight‐matched to the Japanese participants who were receiving r‐hCG in a 1:1 fashion. The primary PK parameters were the area under the serum concentration–time curve from time 0 extrapolated to infinity (AUC 0–∞) and the maximum serum concentration (Cmax).ResultsThe mean serum hCG concentration–time profiles of r‐hCG in the Japanese and Caucasian participants were a similar shape, but the level of overall exposure was ~20% lower in the Japanese participants. For the Japanese participants, r‐hCG resulted in an 11% lower Cmax but a 19% higher AUC 0–∞ compared with u‐hCG. No new safety signal was identified.ConclusionThis study cannot exclude a potential difference in the PK profile of r‐hCG between Japanese and Caucasian participants. However, this study does not indicate that there are clinically relevant differences in the serum PK of r‐hCG and u‐hCG in the Japanese participants.

Day two post retrieval 1500 IUI hCG bolus, progesterone-free luteal support post GnRH agonist trigger – a proof of concept study

Small dose of hCG (1500 IU) on the day of oocyte retrieval, followed by daily progesterone administration, is currently the preferred way to secure adequate luteal support following GnRH agonist trigger. In the current proof-of-concept study, we explored the possibility that a bolus of 1500 IU hCG, given two days after oocyte retrieval, may be sufficient to sustain adequate luteal support without additional progesterone treatment. From February 2015 to August 2016, we obtained 44 pregnancies following GnRHa trigger followed by day 2 hCG (1500 IU) support only (study group). Data from these 44 cycles were compared with the latest 44 pregnancies obtained following hCG (6500 IU) trigger followed by conventional progesterone luteal documented (control group). Mean progesterone levels (14 days postoocyte retrieval) in the study and control groups were 197 nmol/l and 173 nmol/l, respectively (NS). Mean E2 levels (14 days post oocyte retrieval) in the study group was 6937 pmol/l, significantly higher (p < .001) than in the control group (3.276 pmol/l). We conclude that bolus of 1500 IU hCG, administered 2 days after retrieval, can provide excellent support, without the need to further supplement with progesterone.