Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Injection Research Articles

Boric acid supplementation promotes the development of in vitro-produced mouse embryos by related pluripotent and antioxidant genes.

Boric acid (BA) is an important mineral for plants, animals and humans that assists metabolic function and has both positive and negative effects on biological systems. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of different concentrations of BA added to the culture media, the quality and in vitro development potential of mouse embryos. Superovulated C57Bl6/6j female mice were sacrificed ∼18 hours after human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) injection. Single-cell-stage embryos were collected from the oviduct, divided into experiment groups and cultured in embryo medium with supplemented BA+ in 5% CO2 at 37 °C until 96 hours at the blastocyst stage. The blastocyst development rates of 0, 1.62 × 10-1, 1.62 × 10-2, 1.62 × 10-3 and 1.62 × 10-4 µM BA were 51.52%, 73.47%, 77.36% and 81.13%, respectively. The in vitro development rates were significantly higher in the 1.62 × 10-3 (p < 0.05) and 1.62 × 10-4 µM BA groups than in the control group (p < 0.001). These results indicated that low BA doses influenced embryo development by positively affecting in vitro development rates, embryo cell numbers, biochemical parameters and development at the molecular level by pluripotent and antioxidant genes. Therefore, BA seems to play an important role on in vitro embryo development.

Evaluation of Synthetic GnRH-Analog Peforelin with Regard to Oocyte Differentiation and Follicular Development in C57BL/6J Mice.

In biomedical research, ovulation induction is a critical step in the reproductive biology of laboratory animals. This study evaluates the efficacy of peforelin, a synthetic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analog, in comparison to pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG, synonym: eCG), traditionally used for ovulation induction in mice. PMSG is derived from the serum of pregnant horses, and its production is becoming increasingly problematic due to animal welfare concerns and regulatory restrictions. The aim of this study was, therefore, to evaluate an ethically acceptable and less invasive alternative to PMSG. Female C57BL/6J mice, aged 3-4 weeks, were divided into two groups to receive either peforelin at three different concentrations or PMSG, followed by an injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) to induce ovulation. Key outcomes included the number and quality of oocytes collected, fertilization rates, ovary morphology, and follicular differentiation. Although the number of oocytes was significantly lower in the peforelin cohort, the fertilization rate was high. Ovarian morphology was not significantly altered compared to the PMSG cohort. This study showed that peforelin is suitable for superovulation in mice. These results suggest that peforelin could be an ethically acceptable alternative to PMSG stimulation for inducing superovulation in mice.

Effect of different growth hormone pretreatment times in assisted reproductive therapy for patients with diminished ovarian reserve: A retrospective pilot cohort study.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different growth hormone (GH) pretreatment times in assisted reproductive therapy in patients with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR). A retrospective pilot cohort analysis was performed on patients with DOR receiving GH pretreatment in the Assisted Reproduction Unit of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital. A total of 1459 patients met the criteria and were divided into four groups according to GH pretreatment time as follows: 53 were in the 2-month pretreatment group (GH1), 400 were in the 1-month pretreatment group (GH2), 414 were in the ovulation induction period pretreatment group (GH3), and 592 were in the non-GH pretreatment group (control group). In addition, GH1, GH2, and GH3 were combined in the GH pretreatment group. Baseline characteristics and treatment outcomes were compared between the groups. The number of oocytes retrieved in the GH pretreatment, GH1, GH2, and GH3 groups was significantly higher than that in the control group (all P < .01). The numbers of oocytes retrieved in the GH1 and GH2 groups were similar but were nominally higher than those in the GH3 group. Estradiol concentrations in the GH pretreatment, GH2, and GH3 groups were significantly higher than those in the control group on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin injection (all P < .01). In the GH1 group, 22 patients had >1 assisted reproductive therapy cycle (non-GH pretreatment) before GH pretreatment, and the number of oocytes retrieved in the GH pretreatment cycle was higher than that in the non-GH pretreatment cycle, but this was not significant. These findings suggest that the GH pretreatment time was appropriately prolonged, and the number of oocytes retrieved nominally increased. In patients with DOR, GH pretreatment improved treatment outcomes. More than 1 month of GH pretreatment did not increase the number of oocytes retrieved.

Molecular characterization and expression profiling of 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and hydroxysteroid 17-beta dehydrogenase in response to HCG stimulation in striped murrel, Channa striata (Bloch, 1793)

Striped murrel (Channa striata) is highly valued in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia for its nutritional and medicinal benefits. However, the limited availability of high-quality seeds of murrel and the asynchronous maturation of brooders, particularly during peak spawning seasons creates problems in aquaculture. Beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (β-HSDs) are steroidogenic enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of active steroids in gametogenesis and steroidogenesis. This study aimed to clone and characterize the full-length cDNA sequences of two crucial enzymes, 3-beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (Hsd3β) and 17-beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (Hsd17β). It resulted in full-length cDNA sequences for Hsd3β and Hsd17β with 1101bp and 771bp length, respectively, encoding 366 and 256 amino acids. Signal peptide analysis indicated that both proteins are secretory, and hydropathy profiles suggested their hydrophilic nature. Notably, Rossmann-fold NAD(P)(+)-binding domains characteristic of Short-chain dehydrogenases/reductases (SDR) family genes were identified in Hsd3β (between 9-355 aa) and in Hsd17β (between 10-254 aa). Gene expression analyses were performed in testes and ovaries using qPCR at three key stages: preparatory, mature, and 16 h post human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) injection (16 hpi). Results demonstrated a significant 2-fold upregulation of Hsd17β in mature and 16 hpi testes, while Hsd3β showed a significant 10-fold upregulation in mature testes compared to premature and 16 hpi stages. Ovarian expression of Hsd3β and Hsd17β showed minimal expression upon hCG injection (P < 0.05). These findings contribute to our understanding of Beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (β-HSDs), providing insights into regulating sex steroid hormone synthesis during the gonadal development of striped murrel.

Constructing a predictive model for live birth following fresh embryo transfer in antagonist protocol for polycystic ovary syndrome.

The present research aims to assess the factors that influence live birth outcomes following fresh embryo transfers using antagonist protocols in individuals diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Furthermore, it seeks to develop a predictive nomogram model to facilitate clinical decision-making and provide personalized treatment strategies. This retrospective cohort research analyzed the clinical data of 1242 individuals having PCOS who went through fresh embryo transfers employing antagonist protocols and in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) at Fujian Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital between January 2018 and December 2022. Individuals were assigned randomly to a modeling group (869 cases) and a validation group (373 cases) in a 7:3 ratio. The Boruta algorithm and multivariable logistic regression were utilized to identify independent risk factors linked to live births after transfer. A predictive nomogram was subsequently developed. The discriminatory power of the model and its accuracy were monitored by utilizing receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, calibration curves, and decision curve analysis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified several independent factors that influence live birth rates in fresh embryo transfer cycles for individuals having PCOS using antagonist protocols, including female age, body mass index (BMI), infertility duration, serum testosterone levels, progesterone levels at the time of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) injection, number of high-quality cleavage-stage embryos, type of embryo transferred, and the total number of embryos transferred. Based on these findings, a predictive nomogram was developed. The area under the ROC curve stood at 0.804 (95% confidence interval (CI), 0.775-0.833) for the modeling group and 0.807 (95% CI, 0.762-0.851) for the validation group. Calibration curves confirmed that the predictions of the nomogram closely matched the actual live birth outcomes. Decision curve analysis highlighted that the model provides significant net benefits for predicting live birth rates, with optimal performance across a probability range of 16.5 to 88.6%. Independent factors, including female age, infertility duration, BMI, serum testosterone levels, progesterone levels on the day of hCG injection, and the number and type of high-quality cleavage-stage embryos transferred are pivotal in influencing live birth outcomes in fresh embryo transfer cycles under antagonist protocols in individuals with PCOS undergoing IVF/ICSI treatments. The predictive nomogram developed from these factors offers substantial predictive accuracy and clinical utility, providing a reliable basis for clinical prognosis, targeted interventions, and the development of personalized treatment plans.

Effects of Exogenous Hormones on Spawning Performances, Serum Gonadotropin and Sex Steroid Hormone in Manchurian Trout (Brachymystax lenok) during Sexual Maturation

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of salmon gonadotropin releasing hormone analog (S-GnRH-A) and human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) on the serum levels of gonadotropins (GtHs) and sex steroid hormones in Manchurian trout during sexual maturity. Females in the treatment group were injected with 20 µg/kg S-GnRH-A and 400 IU/kg HCG, whilst males were injected with half the amount. Blood samples were collected at 0, 5, 10, and 20 days post injection (dpi). The results showed an increase in female follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels in the treatment group at 5 dpi, and from 5 dpi onwards, a difference was observed between the groups, with higher FSH levels in the treatment group compared to the control group. In males, FSH levels showed group differences at only 5 dpi (p &lt; 0.05) and were higher in the treatment group. In females, luteinizing hormone (LH) peaked at 10 dpi in the treatment group, and there were differences between the two groups at 10 dpi and 20 dpi. In males, LH was significantly higher in the treatment group than in the control group at 5 dpi and 10 dpi (p &lt; 0.05). In females, estradiol (E2) was significantly higher in the treatment group than in the control group at 5 dpi and 10 dpi (p &lt; 0.05), whereas in males, the difference between the two groups was only observed at 5 dpi (p &lt; 0.05). The female testosterone (T) level in the treatment group was significantly higher than that of the control group at 5 dpi and 10 dpi (p &lt; 0.05), while T levels were significantly higher in the male treatment group than in the control group at 5 dpi (p &lt; 0.05). The level of 17α–hydroxyprogesterone (17α-OHP) in the females of the treatment group was significantly higher than that of the control group at 5 dpi and 10 dpi (p &lt; 0.05), and 17α-OHP levels were significantly higher in the male treatment group than in the control group at 10 and 20 dpi (p &lt; 0.05). The fish were successfully spawned after S-GnRH-A and HCG injections, and brood amount, fertilization rate, and hatching rate were significantly increased (p &lt; 0.05). This study provides a framework for a better understanding of the mechanisms of exogenous hormone-mediated control of reproduction in Manchurian trout.

P-421 Enhancing the success of frozen embryo transfer by human chorionic gonadotropin injection on the day of progesterone supplementation onset - a machine learning study

Abstract Study question Does subcutaneous injection of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) at the onset of progesterone supplementation affect clinical pregnancy rate in frozen embryo transfer cycles? Summary answer Clinical pregnancy rates are higher when hCG injection is administered at the onset of 300 mg/day progesterone in patients undergoing frozen embryo transfer. What is known already HCG and progesterone play crucial roles in embryo transfer and implantation during in vitro fertilization. Exisitng studies have demonstrated that pre-administration of hCG at the onset of progesterone supplementation for frozen embryo transfer increases clinical pregnancy rates in patients with endometriosis. However, the synergistic effects of hCG and progesterone co-supplementation in a broader range of patients remain unexplored and require further investigation. A multifactorial analysis of hormone replacement therapy, covering various patient-specific aspects, is necessary to understand the implications of this approach. Study design, size, duration This retrospective cohort study analyzed data from 2,251 single frozen embryo transfers performed between Jan 2019-Aug 2023 at the INVICTA Fertility Centre, Poland. The dataset was selected by the practitioner and included age, AMH, BMI, embryo morphology grade, total number of transfers, medical and embryological procedures, recurrent implantation failure, preimplantation genetic testing, endometrial thickness before transfer (≥ 7 mm), and the menstrual cycle day on which progesterone was started. Participants/materials, setting, methods Patients (21-47 years) receiving 300 or 600 mg/day progesterone for five days were divided into the control and hCG (6,500 IU hCG injection on progesterone onset) groups. A machine learning model was trained using a gradient boosting technique (100 decision trees, four leaves, maximum depth of two nodes, learning rate of 0.05) to identify factors affecting the clinical pregnancy rate. Statistical analysis was performed to compare clinical pregnancy rates between the groups. Main results and the role of chance Our machine-learning model revealed that hCG injection (512 processes vs. 1739 processes without it) at the onset of progesterone administration is an important feature for the clinical pregnancy rate. The performance accuracy of the model was approximately 70%. Of the 1,294 protocols where patients received 300 mg/day progesterone, 311 included hCG injection while 983 did not. The clinical pregnancy rate was significantly higher in the hCG group than that in the control group (54% vs. 46%, P &amp;lt; 0.05), with 167 clinical pregnancies observed in patients receiving hCG injections against 452 pregnancies without it. In contrast, among the 957 protocols where 600 mg/day progesterone was administered, the previously observed effect was not significant (P &amp;gt; 0.05). Comparing 201 processes with hCG injection to 756 processes without it, the incidence of clinical pregnancies was 46.8% and 47.2% (with 94 and 357 confirmed pregnancies), respectively. Other factors such as the morphology grade of the embryo used for transfer, patient’s age, AMH, BMI, total number of transfers performed on the patient, menstrual cycle day on which progesterone was started, occurrence of recurrent implantation failure, and the use of preimplantation genetic testing were not significantly different between the groups. Limitations, reasons for caution This study focused on frozen embryo transfers and validation across other protocols using fresh embryo transfers, and different doses or routes of hCG and progesterone administration are needed. The impact of hCG administration on patients with various causes of infertility should also be explored. Wider implications of the findings Pre-administration of hCG injection along with a daily dose of 300 mg/day progesterone enhanced clinical pregnancy rates for frozen embryo transfer. This holds the potential for the optimization of hormon supplementation protocols to increase overall success rates in assisted reproductive technologies. Trial registration number not applicable

O-058 Newly identified female mutations causing oocyte maturation defect and embryo developmental arrest

Abstract Female infertility is a complex issue affecting a significant number of women. In the United States, among married women aged 15–49 years with no prior births, approximately one in five (19%) were unable to get pregnant after one year of trying. In addition, approximately one in four (26%) women in this group had difficulty getting pregnant or carrying a pregnancy to term. For women under 35 years of age, infertility is defined as a lack of success within one year, while for women aged 35 and older, it is within six months. Various factors, such as genetic, endocrine, physiological, anatomical, and immunological irregularities within the reproductive system, can affect a woman's chances of achieving pregnancy and delivering a healthy child. Among these factors, oocyte maturation is an important prerequisite for successful fertilization and subsequent embryonic development. In Medically Assisted Reproduction (MAR), the meiotic maturation of oocytes is induced by human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) injection, which mimics the natural endogenous luteinizing hormone (LH) surge during the menstrual cycle. Although it is common for a few oocytes to remain immature despite ovarian stimulation and hCG administration, generally, immature oocytes have the competency to spontaneously mature in vitro. However, oocyte maturation is a sophisticated process involving multiple genes or protein molecules. Therefore, pathogenic variations in the genomic sequence or functional defects in any molecule that affects meiosis may lead to impaired oocyte maturation. While complete failure of all oocytes to mature in vivo is extremely rare, understanding the molecular aetiology of oocyte maturation is crucial for addressing infertility issues related to this process and improving fertility outcomes. The transition from the cleavage to the blastocyst stage often represents a significant bottleneck, with nearly 10% of fertilized eggs arrested at the cleavage stages. Developmental arrest of the preimplantation embryo is characterized by the cessation of cellular division for at least 24 h. Various factors originating from both embryonic and parental sources contribute to arrest of early stage embryo development. The genetic roots of developmental arrest were examined by considering both the parental causes of infertility and factors within the embryo. Examination revealed shared elements, regardless of the source of origin. Chromosomal abnormalities, abnormal preimplantation development, and monogenic variations have been reported to cause embryonic developmental arrests. Recently, deficiencies in oocyte maturation and embryo development have been categorized as part of the oocyte/zygote/embryo arrest (OZEMA) phenotype in the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) database. A latest extensive review of monogenic causes associated with female infertility identified 23 genes with a total of 27 gene disease relationships (GDRs) for the OZEMA phenotype. Seventeen GDRs were classified as having at least moderate evidence of involvement in OZEMA, in addition to ten GDRs with less substantial evidence. Several additional genes were subsequently identified. This presentation will provide an overview of gene defects linked to the OZEMA phenotype, discuss the current status and future prospects of pre-MAR screening of females with OZEMA, and assess a novel workflow for modern genetic diagnosis to maximize the benefit of the patient.

Sperm penetration at the maturing metaphase I stage can trigger oocyte activation in a mouse model

Can spermatozoa penetrate maturing metaphase I (MI) oocytes, and render subsequent development following conventional IVF in a mouse model? ICR mice were used in this study. Metaphase II (MII) cumulus-oocyte complexes (COC) harvested 15 h after injection of human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) were used for IVF as the control group (Group 1). In the treatment group (Group 2), maturing MI COC harvested 7 h after HCG injection were used for IVF. Fertilization, pronuclear formation, cleavage, blastocyst formation, DNA methylation status, chromosome number and live birth rates were used to evaluate the developmental dynamics and competency of maturing MI oocytes following conventional IVF. Maturing MI COC were fertilized using conventional IVF, and sperm penetration at MI-telophase I triggered oocyte activation. Most embryos resulting from fertilized MI oocytes developed to blastocyst stage during preimplantation development, albeit a substantial proportion of them were triploids due to the absence of the second meiotic division. Some of the embryos derived from fertilization of maturing oocytes were able to implant and gave rise to full-term development. Maturing MI COC from follicles before ovulation could be used for mouse IVF, and fertilized MI oocytes had high potential for development. Healthy offspring can be generated from maturing MI COC following conventional IVF. MI COC may represent a valuable source of 'usable' biomaterial in assisted reproduction. However, many embryos derived from MI COC via IVF have abnormal chromosome numbers in the mouse model. The implications of these findings for human IVF remain to be investigated.

Injection of luteinizing hormone or human chorionic gonadotropin increases calcium excretion and serum PTH in males

Animal and human studies have suggested that sex steroids have calciotropic actions, and it has been proposed that follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) may exert direct effects on bone. Here, we demonstrate the expression of the receptor for Luteinizing hormone (LH) and human choriogonadotropin (hCG), LHCGR, in human kidney tissue, suggesting a potential influence on calcium homeostasis. To investigate the role of LHCGR agonist on calcium homeostasis in vivo, we conducted studies in male mice and human subjects. Male mice were treated with luteinizing hormone (LH), and human extrapolation was achieved by injecting 5000 IU hCG once to healthy men or men with hypergonadotropic or hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. In mice, LH treatment significantly increased urinary calcium excretion and induced a secondary increase in serum parathyroid hormone (PTH). Similarly, hCG treatment in healthy men led to a significant increase in urinary calcium excretion, serum PTH levels, and 1,25 (OH)2D3, while calcitonin, and albumin levels were reduced, possibly to avoid development of persistent hypocalcemia. Still, the rapid initial decline in ionized calcium coincided with a significant prolongation of the cardiac QTc-interval that normalized over time. The observed effects may be attributed to LH/hCG-receptor (LHCGR) activation, considering the presence of LHCGR expression in human kidney tissue, and the increase in sex steroids occurred several hours after the changes in calcium homeostasis. Our translational study shed light on the intricate relationship between gonadotropins, sex hormones and calcium, suggesting that LHCGR may be influencing calcium homeostasis directly or indirectly.

Clomiphene citrate and optional human chorionic gonadotropin for treating male hypogonadism arising from long-term anabolic-androgenic steroid use—A pilot study

IntroductionLong-term anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) use poses several health risks, including secondary hypogonadism. There is a knowledge gap on treatment targeting the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis among men with anabolic steroid-induced hypogonadism (ASIH). This study aims to gain insights into the potential utility of endocrine therapy to restore endogenous testosterone levels and alleviate ASIH symptoms in AAS dependent men. MethodsIn this proof-of-concept, single-site, open longitudinal pilot study, AAS dependent men with continuous AAS use and a desire to permanently discontinue use, were given endocrine therapy. The treatment included 25 mg clomiphene citrate (CC) every second day for 16 weeks, transdermal testosterone daily during the first four weeks, and if indicated, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) injections for a maximum of eight weeks. Physical exams including blood collection and online questionnaires were completed every four and two weeks, respectively. ResultsTen participants, with median age 32 years (interquartile range 30–45), with mean ± standard deviation AAS use of 11 ± 4 years, completed the CC intervention. Seven participants received hCG as part of their treatment protocol. Mild adverse events included headaches, dizziness, and mood swings, and no serious adverse events occurred. During the intervention, there was a decrease in levels of hematocrit, hemoglobin and ALT (alanine aminotransferase), as well as an increase in serum FSH (follicle stimulating hormone), LH (luteinizing hormone) and SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin). Five of ten participants reached a total testosterone level within normal range (9–30 nmol/l). The HPG axis response varied greatly among participants, and was not aligned with the severity of ASIH related withdrawal symptoms. ConclusionsThe findings from this proof-of-concept study may guide future randomized controlled trials aiming to investigate potential endocrine therapeutic approaches to ASIH.

High progesterone levels on the day after HCG injection has no effect on clinical pregnancy outcomes in in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer.

This study investigates the potential impact of high progesterone (P) level on the day following human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) injection on the clinical pregnancy outcomes of in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET). Retrospective analysis was conducted on 6418 cycles of IVF-ET performed at Liuzhou Maternal and Child Health Hospital between August 2020 to December 2021. Excluding cycles with progesterone levels ≥1.5ng/ml on HCG injection, a total of 781 cycles were identified according to the standard, and they were divided into five groups according to the progesterone level on the day after HCG: Group A: progesterone level < 2.5 ng/ml (n = 128); Group B: 2.5 ng/ml ≤ progesterone level < 3.5 ng/ml (n = 174); Group C: 3.5 ng/ml ≤ progesterone level < 4.5 ng/ml (n = 153); Group D: 4.5 ng/ml ≤ progesterone level < 5.5 ng/ml (n = 132); Group E progesterone level ≥5.5 ng/ml(n=194). Comparative analyses of clinical data, including general clinical data, and clinical pregnancy outcomes such as clinical pregnancy rate, miscarriage rate, and live birth rate were performed among these groups. There were significant differences in estradiol levels on HCG injection, but there were no differences in available embryo rate, clinical pregnancy rate, miscarriage rate, and live birth rate. Binary logistic regression analysis showed that there was no significant correlation between P level on the day after HCG injection and the live birth rate. Under the condition of low P level on HCG injection, high progesterone levels on the day after HCG injection does not affect the clinical pregnancy outcomes of IVF-ET.

Administration of Arginine Vasotocin and modified Isotocin improve artificial propagation and post-spawning survival of female yellow catfish

Low rate of spawning and high percentage of death after artificial propagation are frequently observed in catfish, which do harms to the long-term population stability and genetic breeding programs in aquaculture. In this study, yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco), an important freshwater species in China was used as a research model, since the farmed female yellow catfish had poor reproduction performance and a high death rate after treatment with the traditional exogenous hormones, luteinizing hormone releasing hormone analogues2 (LHRH-A2) and human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG). We tried to investigate the roles of the Arginine Vasotocin (AVT)/ Isotocin (IT) neuropeptide family in reproduction and design an optimal strategy for inducing artificial propagation in yellow catfish. Two copies of pro-avt and pro-it were detected in hypothalamus and ovaries of yellow catfish, and their mRNA levels gradually increased during spring-summer season. Furthermore, the transcript levels of pro-avt and pro-it in hypothalamus significantly increased after injection of LHRH-A2 and HCG. Although AVT could not induce germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) in female yellow catfish, administration of AVT significantly stimulated premature ovulation in a dose-dependent manner and induced the expression of ovulation-related genes, ptgs2a and acvr1. Furthermore, there is a significant up-regulation of serum prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and luteinizing hormone (LH) in female fish after AVT treatment, whereas no difference was observed in follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). Since IT of yellow catfish was insoluble in saline, a rigid peptide segment was added at the end of IT (the modified IT was named IT-M), which could greatly improve its solubility and induce ovulation in female yellow catfish. Subsequently, we demonstrated that adding carp pituitary extraction (CPE) to the second injection of traditional methods could efficiently improve the spawned fish, eggs production, fertilization rate, hatching rate and post-spawning survival of female yellow catfish, despite at a relatively high cost in hormones. We further discovered that IT-M + AVT could substitute for HCG + CPE in the second injection and had high efficiency in artificial propagation, reducing the hormone costs to less than one-third. Altogether, we provide an effective and affordable combination of exogenous hormones to improve reproduction performances and post-spawning survival rate in yellow catfish.

The Effect of Copper–Cadmium Co-Exposure and Hormone Remediation on the Ovarian Transcriptome of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

The escalating problem of copper (Cu) and cadmium (Cd) pollution in aquatic environments poses a significant threat to the ovarian tissue and reproductive capacity of fish, hindering the development of the aquaculture industry. However, the combined effects of Cu and Cd on fish gonadal development remain unclear. In this study, the fish species Nile tilapia was stressed with rearing water containing 300 μg/L Cu2+ and 100 μg/L Cd2+ for 30 days, followed by an intraperitoneal injection of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH-α) and human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) at various concentrations. We investigated the ovarian transcriptome profiles before and after injection. Prior to injection, combined treatment with Cu and Cd resulted in reproductive dysfunction and metal ion imbalance in tilapia. Transcriptomic profiling revealed differential gene annotation concentrated in the MAPK signaling pathway and regulation of GTPase activity. Post-injection, all concentrations of LHRH-α and HCG groups showed an upregulated gonadosomatic index (G.S.I) and higher levels of vitellogenin (VTG), gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), gonadotropin (GTH), and estrogen (E2) in serum compared to the negative control group. Transcriptomic analysis revealed alterations in various ovarian signaling pathways, preliminarily revealing the in vivo molecular mechanisms and differences in LHRH-α and HCG. The findings from this study could help us better understand how to counteract the effects of combined Cu and Cd exposure on tilapia ovarian development, which has significant implications for the Nile tilapia aquaculture industry.

Association between Myometrial Thickness and Assisted Reproductive Technologies Outcomes: A Prospective Cohort Study.

Myometrial thickness has been expected to be a prognosticator for lower uterine segment function. An abnormal function of the uterine muscle layer can cause common and important reproductive problems. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between baseline myometrial thickness and assisted reproductive technologies (ART) outcomes. In this prospective cohort study, 453 infertile women undergoing ART cycles without any obvious uterine pathology, participated in this prospective cohort study from February 2013 to May 2015. In order to measure the myometrial thickness in the anterior and posterior of the uterine, trans-vaginal ultrasounds were conducted on days 2-4 of the cycle (menstrual phase) preceding ovarian stimulation and the day of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) injection. We defined three groups based on the baseline myometrial thickness in the anterior and posterior, including (A) <25 mm, (B) 25-29.9 mm and (C) ≥30 mm. Ovarian stimulation, oocyte retrieval and luteal phase support were performed in accordance with the standard long protocol. Two weeks after embryo transfer, the patients underwent a pregnancy test by checking their serum β-hCG levels. The primary outcome measure was clinical pregnancy rate. Secondary outcome measures were, implantation rate, abortion rate and live birth rate. The clinical pregnancy (P=0.013) and implantation (P=0.003) rates were significantly lower in group A than in two other groups. Although the live birth rate was lower in group A than two other groups, this decrease was not statistically significant (P=0.058). The findings may be a way for clinicians to draw focus on providing therapeutic strategies and a specific supportive care for women with a baseline myometrial thickness <25 mm in order to improve the reproductive outcome of in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF-ICSI).

Foxp2 deficiency impairs reproduction by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in zebrafish†.

FOXP2 was initially characterized as a transcription factor linked to speech and language disorders. Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals that Foxp2 is enriched in the gonadotrope cluster of the pituitary gland and colocalized with the hormones LHB and FSHB in chickens and mice, implying that FOXP2 might be associated with reproduction in vertebrates. Herein, we investigated the roles of foxp2 in reproduction in a Foxp2-deficient zebrafish model. The results indicated that the loss of Foxp2 inhibits courtship behavior in adult male zebrafish. Notably, Foxp2 deficiency disrupts gonad development, leading to retardation of follicle development and a decrease in oocytes in females at the full-growth stage, among other phenotypes. The transcriptome analysis (RNA-seq) also revealed that differentially expressed genes clustered into the estrogen signaling and ovarian steroidogenesis-related signaling pathways. In addition, we found that Foxp2 deficiency could modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, especially the regulation of lhb and fshb expression, in zebrafish. In contrast, the injection of human chorionic gonadotropin, a specific LH agonist, partially rescues Foxp2-impaired reproduction in zebrafish, suggesting that Foxp2 plays an important role in the regulation of reproduction via the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in zebrafish. Thus, our findings reveal a new role for Foxp2 in the regulation of reproduction in vertebrates.

Activation of interleukin 33-NFκB axis in granulosa cells during atresia and its role in disposal of atretic follicles†.

It has been previously shown that the cytokine interleukin 33 is required for two processes, i.e., autophagic digestion of granulosa cells and recruitment of macrophages into atretic follicles, for full disposal of atretic follicles. Now, this study shows that activation of interleukin 33-suppression of tumorigenicity 2-Nuclear Factor ĸB (NFκB) axis in granulosa in early atretic follicles may regulate those two events. Injection of human chorionic gonadotropin has been shown to induce a transient peak of interleukin 33 expression with synchronized atresia. In this model, interleukin 33-independent expression of suppression of tumorigenicity 2 in granulosa cells was detected in early atretic follicles before macrophage invasion. The activation of NFκB pathway in ovaries was further demonstrated in vivo in Tg mice with luciferase-reporter for NFκB activation; the activation was microscopically localized to granulosa cells in early atretic follicles. Importantly, antibody blockage of interleukin 33 or interleukin 33 Knock-out (KO) (Il33-/-) not only inhibited NFκB activity in ovaries, but it also altered expression of two key genes, i.e., reduction in proinflammatory interleukin6 (IL6) expression, and a surge of potential autophagy-inhibitory mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) expression in atretic follicles. By contrast, apoptosis and other genes, such as interleukin1β (IL1β) were not affected. In conclusion, in parallel to apoptosis, atresia signals also trigger activation of the interleukin 33-suppression of tumorigenicity 2-NFκB pathway in granulosa, which leads to (1) down-regulated expression of mTOR that is a negative regulator of autophagy and (2) up-regulated expression of proinflammatory IL6.

Effects of different hormonal treatments on spermatogenesis advancement in hatchery-produced greater amberjack Seriola dumerili (Risso 1810)

In earlier studies, wild-caught greater amberjack Seriola dumerili (Risso, 1810) males reared in sea cages showed gametogenesis impairment and low sperm production and quality. Here, we (a) examined if F1 hatchery-produced males reared in sea cages also exhibit reproductive dysfunctions and (b) evaluated the effects of gonadotropin releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) administration through injections (GnRHainj) or sustained-release implants (GnRHaimpl), and human chorionic gonadotropin (hGC) injections on spermatogenesis/spermiation enhancement. Fish were given a hormone treatment just prior to the spawning season, and were transferred to land-based tanks, according to an established spawning induction protocol. Blood samples (n = 6) were obtained on Days 0, 7 and 13 after treatment. Testis samples were obtained on Days 0 (n = 4) and 13 (n = 2 per treatment). The fish prior to their transfer from the sea cages to the land-based tanks, exhibited a low gonadosomatic index, altered sex steroid hormone profile and high density of testicular apoptotic cells. After transfer to tanks, there was a general depression of sex steroid plasma levels parallel to an increase in cortisol concentrations. Despite the negative effect on steroidogenesis by the transfer from the sea, the hormonal treatments increased the number of fish from where sperm could be obtained, as well as testis growth, and reduced testicular apoptosis. Treatment with hCG resulted in the most significant changes in spermatogenesis, while GnRHaimpl appeared to induce less intense, but likely longer-lasting effects. The study indicated that F1 hatchery-produced males also exhibited reproductive dysfunctions as wild-caught captive-reared greater amberjack, and that the observed positive effects of the hormone treatments on spermiation/spermatogenesis were likely mediated by factors other than sex steroid hormones.

Does Intramuscular Injection of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin before Frozen Embryo Transfer Improve Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection Outcomes?

Does Intramuscular Injection of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin before Frozen Embryo Transfer Improve Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection Outcomes?

Efficacy of Dan'e Fukang Soft Extract in Moderate Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome for Concurrent Treatment of Blood and Fluid Guided by the "Triple Prevention" Principle.

This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy and safety of Dan'e Fukang soft extracts in moderate ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) for the simultaneous treatment of blood and fluid, guided by the traditional Chinese medicine principle of "triple prevention". This study conducted a retrospective analysis of clinical data from outpatients who underwent in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection embryo transfer (ICSI-ET). A total of 2245 cases were included and divided into a treatment group (1002 cases) and a control group (1243 cases). Patients in the treatment group were administered Dan'e Fukang soft extracts orally in addition to conventional Western medicine. Comparative assessments were made between the two groups on pelvic ascites volume, maximum ovary diameter, dysmenorrhea incidence post-oocyte retrieval, and safety indicators. There were no statistically significant differences between the treatment group and the control group in terms of general characteristics or the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteotropic hormone (LH), estradiol (E2), or progesterone (P) at the time of gonadotropin (Gn) initiation. The groups did not differ significantly when we compared the levels of LH, E2, or P on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) injection and during ovarian hyperstimulation protocols (P > 0.05 for all indicators). The differences in the volume of pelvic ascites, the maximum ovarian diameter, and the incidence of dysmenorrhea after oocyte retrieval were statistically significant between the treatment group and the control group (P < 0.05 in both). There were no instances of adverse reactions in either group. Based on the traditional Chinese medicine principle of "triple prevention", the use of Dan'e Fukang soft extracts for the simultaneous treatment of blood and fluid in moderate OHSS significantly improved the absorption of pelvic ascites, promoted ovarian recovery, and reduced the incidence of dysmenorrhea after oocyte retrieval.