Implications For Reproductive Health Research Articles

Unveiling the role of protein kinase A (PKA) activity in bovine oviductal epithelial cells: implications on apoptotic signaling pathways during the estrous cycle.

The complex interactome crucial for successful pregnancy is constituted by the intricate network of endocrine and paracrine signaling pathways, involving gametes, embryos, and the female reproductive tract. Specifically, the oviduct exhibits distinct responses to gametes and early embryos during particular phases of the estrus cycle, a process tightly regulated by reproductive hormones. Moreover, these hormones play a pivotal role in orchestrating cyclical changes within oviductal epithelial cells. To unravel the molecular mechanisms underlying these dynamic changes, our study aimed to investigate the involvement of protein kinase A (PKA) in oviductal epithelial cells throughout the estrus cycle and in advanced pregnancy, extending our studies to oviductal epithelial cell in primary culture. By a combination of 2D-gel electrophoresis, Western blotting, and mass spectrometry, we identified 17 proteins exhibiting differential phosphorylation status mediated by PKA. Among these proteins, we successfully validated the phosphorylation status of heat shock 70kDa protein (HSP70), aconitase 2 (ACO2), and lamin B1 (LMNB1). Our findings unequivocally demonstrate the dynamic regulation of PKA throughout the estrus cycle in oviductal epithelial cells. Also, analysis by bioinformatics tools suggest its pivotal role in mediating cyclical changes possibly through modulation of apoptotic pathways. This research sheds light on the intricate molecular mechanisms underlying reproductive processes, with implications for understanding fertility and reproductive health.

Polystyrene microplastics and di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate co-exposure: Implications for female reproductive health

Microplastics and phthalates are prevalent and emerging pollutants that pose a potential impact on human health. Previous studies suggest that both microplastics and phthalates can adversely affect the reproductive systems of humans and mammals. However, the combined impact of these pollutants on the female reproductive system remains unclear. Here we show the impacts of exposure to polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) and di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) on female Sprague-Dawley rats’ reproductive systems. We find that co-exposure to PS-MPs and DEHP results in a marked increase in cystic and atretic follicles, oxidative stress, fibrosis, and dysregulation of serum sex hormone homeostasis in the ovaries of the rats. Proteomic analysis identified differentially expressed proteins that were predominantly enriched in signaling pathways related to fatty acid metabolism and tight junctions, regulated by transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1). We further confirm that co-exposure to DEHP and PS-MPs activates the TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling pathway, and inhibiting this pathway alleviates oxidative stress, hormonal dysregulation, and ovarian fibrosis. These results indicate that exposure to the combination of microplastics and phthalates leads to a significant increase in atretic follicles and may increase the risk of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Our study provides new insights into the reproductive toxicity effects of microplastics and DEHP exposure on female mammals, highlighting the potential link between environmental pollutants and the occurrence of PCOS. These findings highlight the need for comprehensive assessments of the reproductive health risks posed by microplastic pollution to women and contribute to the scientific basis for evaluating such risks.

Clinical Spectrum of Long COVID: Effects on Female Reproductive Health.

The COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has presented numerous health challenges, including long-term COVID, which affects female reproductive health. This review consolidates the current research on the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on the menstrual cycle, ovarian function, fertility, and overall gynecological health. This study emphasizes the role of angiotensin-converting enzyme receptors in viral entry and the subsequent tissue-specific pathological effects. It also explores the potential influence of long COVID on hormonal balance and immune responses, contributing to menstrual irregularities and impaired ovarian function. The findings indicate a higher prevalence of long-term COVID-19 among women, highlighting the substantial implications for reproductive health and the need for sex-sensitive longitudinal studies. Enhanced surveillance and targeted research are essential to develop effective interventions that prioritize women's reproductive well-being following SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review advocates for a sex-informed approach to ongoing COVID-19 research and healthcare strategies, aiming to provide up-to-date and pertinent data for healthcare providers and the general public, ultimately improving outcomes for females affected by long COVID.

P-447 Dynamic changes in uterine natural killer cell (uNK) function across menstrual phases: Implications for implantation

Abstract Study question Does the function of uNK cells change from the proliferative stage of the menstrual cycle to the secretory phase in readiness for implantation? Summary answer During the secretory phase, uNK cells demonstrate an enhanced ability to produce cytokines indicating their importance for implantation. What is known already The abundance of uNK cells during implantation, and their secretion of trophoblast chemoattractant factors, suggests their pivotal role in placentation. uNK cells express Killer Immunoglobulin-like Receptors (KIR), which interact with Human Leukocyte Antigen-C (HLA-C) on trophoblasts, inducing cytokine production that aids trophoblast migration. It has recently been discovered that uNK cells consist of three distinct subsets, with different propensities to produce cytokines. However, the cytokine production abilities of each subset, and how this changes over the menstrual cycle, remains unexplored. Study design, size, duration A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted to compare uNK cell function between the proliferative and secretory phases of the menstrual cycle. The proliferative phase was defined as before day 14 of the menstrual cycle, and the secretory phase after this, in those with a regular 28-32 day menstrual cycle. The current data analysed is from 6 proliferative phase samples and 10 secretory phase samples however recruitment is ongoing. Participants/materials, setting, methods Endometrial samples were collected with a Pipelle biopsy from healthy fertile women attending the sexual health clinic for contraception. In the laboratory, endometrial lymphocytes were isolated and cultured with Anti-CD107a PerCP-eFlour710 (100ul/ml), Brefeldin (3ug/ml) and Monensin (2uM/ml). Cells were then stimulated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) and ionomycin (2ul/ml) and incubated for 4 hours at 37 °C. Flow cytometry was employed to analyse the samples after staining with viability dye, cell surface antibodies, and intracellular markers. Main results and the role of chance In initial experiments, degranulation declined during the proliferative phase in both uNK2 and uNK3 compared to the other two phases of the menstrual cycle. There was a significant increase in the production of TNFa by uNK1 and IL-8 by uNK3 in the secretory phase compared to the proliferative phase. There were also increases in IFNg and GM-CSF production across all subsets although this did not reach significance (Statistical testing was done using Kruskal Wallis with a post-hoc Dunn test, p < 0.05). Current work explores the production of more recently identified trophoblast chemoattractants, including XCL1 and CSF1, which we would expect to increase in a similar manner. Limitations, reasons for caution Limitations include the cross-sectional nature of the study, limiting the ability to establish causation. However another study, tracking pregnancy outcomes in those with recurrent implantation failure aims to address this. Additionally, variations within menstrual phases may exist. The sample size is also a limitation which I am working to expand. Wider implications of the findings A comprehensive understanding of uNK throughout various menstrual phases holds profound implications for reproductive health. The heightened cytokine production observed during the secretory phase indicates their pivotal role in the process of implantation. This finding not only underscores their significance but also serves as a catalyst for further research. Trial registration number not applicable

O-305 Mapping the entire functionally active seminal microbiota and its association with semen quality parameters

Abstract Study question Does semen harbour functionally active microorganisms, and whether the microbial composition associate with semen quality parameters? Summary answer Seminal fluid harbours functionally alive microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, archaea, viroids and fungi whose composition and metabolic functions associate with semen quality parameters. What is known already Seminal fluid has been shown to possess different microbes, where different bacteria have been associated with spermatogenesis, seminal parameters and infertility. Nevertheless, previous results are inconclusive and the core microorganismal composition in semen is not determined and whether the identified bacterial DNA sequences refer to alive/functionally active microbes is not clear. Further, there is limited knowledge of the potential host-microbe interactions. Study design, size, duration In total 78 men with age between 18 and 45 years donated semen for the study, 59 men with good quality semen parameters and 19 men with low semen quality and diagnosed asthenospermia, oligoasthenozoospermia or oligoasthenoteratozoospermia comprised control and case groups, respectively. Participants/materials, setting, methods Semen quality parameters were analysed following WHO, 2021 guidelines. Seminal fluid underwent NextSeq total RNA sequencing, separating human and non-human sequences with Hisat2 aligner. Taxonomic classification of microorganisms was obtained using Kraken2. Microbial species and human RNA-Seq analyses, comparing control and infertility groups, utilized metagenomeSeq and edgeR R packages. Human and microbial pathways were annotated using MetaCyc, followed by GSEA analysis. The integration of metabolic pathways between host and microbes was investigated. Main results and the role of chance With our total RNAseq analysis, we mapped the entire alive microbiota composing of 6453 microorganisms within the seminal fluid samples. Microbes such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, viroids and archea were identified. When analysing microbiota associations with seminal parameters, 404 microbial species (Lactobacillus, Gardnerella, Prevotella, Atopobium, Pseudomonas among others) were significantly differently present among infertile men vs. good quality semen group. The host transcriptomic analysis identified 2569 differentially expressed genes in infertile vs. good quality semen groups, involved in sperm differentiation, spermatid development, reproduction, cilium movement and meiosis. Metabolic pathway analysis detected possible metabolic activity in the host-microbiota crosstalk in FAO-PWY: fatty acid & beta-oxidation, LIPASYN-PWY: phospholipases, PWY66-429: fatty acid biosynthesis, PWY-3781: aerobic respiration I pathways. Limitations, reasons for caution Bigger sample size of infertile men would be needed to validate the study findings. Wider implications of the findings We confirm the presence of active microbes in semen with implications in seminal quality parameters such as motility, sperm count and morphology. Our results contribute to better understanding of seminal microbiota dysregulation in infertility with broader implications for reproductive health, suggesting functional links between seminal microbiota and sperm parameters. Trial registration number NA

Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Modulation and Resveratrol Influence on Dnah1 Expression: Implications for Male Reproductive Health

Male reproductive health is intricately regulated by molecular and physiological processes, with the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) playing a crucial role. AhR is activated by various ligands and influences the onset and progression of diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of AhR on spermatogenesis in adult male rats were affected by resveratrol (RES) and CH223191, an AhR antagonist. The study include forty rats were randomly divided into four equal groups: Control group, DMSO group, RES group and AhR‾ group, the rats received respective treatments intraperitoneally twice weekly for 60 days, and various parameters related to male reproductive health were evaluated. The AhR that activation by the RES treatment were enhanced the sperm morphology, sperm acrosomal integrity and luteinizing hormone. Moreover, the Dnah1 gene expression, is has play major role in sperm morphology, was upregulated and testosterone levels were elevated by RES. On the other hand, sperm morphology, sperm acrosomal integrity, testosterone hormone levels, and Dnah1 expression were all reduced in AhR‍ rats. The testicular tissue integrity was maintained by RES, according to a histopathological analysis. These findings highlight the role of AhR in male reproductive health and suggest RES as a potential therapeutic agent.

Retrospective Analysis of Effective Management Strategies for Primary Amenorrhea of Reproductive Age in Saudi Arabia.

Primary amenorrhea, the absence of menstruation by age 15, can have significant implications for reproductive health and overall well-being. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of various management strategies for primary amenorrhea among women of reproductive age in Saudi Arabia. Medical records of 63 eligible patients from 2018 to 2023 were analyzed, assessing diagnostic methods, treatment modalities, and associated outcomes. The findings revealed that hormonal therapy was the most commonly employed management strategy (50.0%) and demonstrated the highest rate of achieving menstrual regularity (62.5%). Surgical interventions were utilized in 28.1% of cases, with a 50.0% rate of symptom resolution. Lifestyle modifications were less frequent (21.9%) but showed a moderate rate of symptom resolution (35.7%). Logistic regression analysis identified age, underlying etiology, and management strategy as significant predictors of treatment success. Subgroup analyses highlighted the efficacy of hormonal therapy and lifestyle modifications for genetic etiologies, while surgical interventions were more effective for anatomical causes. The study underscores the importance of a comprehensive diagnostic approach and personalized treatment plans tailored to individual patient characteristics. Despite limitations, the findings contribute to the understanding of optimal management strategies for primary amenorrhea and emphasize the need for multidisciplinary collaboration in addressing this complex condition.

Varicocele and Interventional Radiology: A Comprehensive Case Study on Diagnosis, Therapeutic Intervention, and Implications for Reproductive Health

ABSTRACT Male infertility is known to be influenced by varicocele, a common vascular aberration marked by aberrant dilatation of the pampiniform plexus veins within the scrotum. In this instance, a 38-year-old man showed up with scrotal discomfort and swelling, which are clinical signs of varicocele. Scrotal ultrasonography provided diagnostic confirmation, confirming the existence of varicocele and identifying a concomitant minor hemorrhage in the left scrotal sac. Despite the initiation of conservative measures, such as bed rest, cryotherapy, and analgesics, the patient’s clinical course was marked by persistent scrotal swelling and hematoma formation. Subsequently, interventional radiological techniques were employed, specifically coil deployment and varicocele embolization. These interventions demonstrated significant efficacy, leading to a notable reduction in the presenting symptoms. Follow-up assessments, conducted post intervention, indicated a complete resolution of both pain and hematoma. This clinical trajectory underscores the pivotal role of interventional radiology in managing varicocele-related complications. The multi-faceted nature of this case highlights the necessity of a comprehensive, inter-disciplinary approach integrating radiological interventions for the effective management of varicocele-associated symptoms, potentially optimizing reproductive health outcomes.

Molecular and Epigenetic Impacts of Pesticides on the Female Reproductive System: A Review

Pesticides, primarily originating from agricultural activities, have raised environmental and health concerns due to their suspected effects on the female reproductive system. Despite their widespread application, a significant research void exists concerning their implications for human female reproductive health. This review provides comprehensive information on the adverse effects of pesticides on female reproduction, focusing on their molecular and epigenetic mechanisms. In general, these adverse outcomes include ovarian dysfunction, hormonal irregularities, the onset of endometriosis, and an increased risk of stillbirths. From a mechanistic perspective, pesticides can interfere with the endocrine system, catalyze the formation of reactive oxygen species, and induce oxidative stress. At the molecular level, certain pesticides can act as hormone mimics, disrupting the normal hormonal balance. Moreover, they can trigger epigenetic shifts, leading to alterations in non-coding RNAs, histone configurations, and DNA methylation patterns. These epigenetic alterations not only have an immediate impact but can also be passed on to subsequent generations. Highlighting these concerns, this review underscores the urgent need for stringent regulations and aims to catalyze future in-depth studies on the relationship between pesticides and female reproductive health.

Optimal Protein Allocation Controls the Inhibition of GltA and AcnB in Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

Neisseria gonorrhea (Ngo) is a major concern for global public health due to its severe implications for reproductive health. Understanding its metabolic phenotype is crucial for comprehending its pathogenicity. Despite Ngo's ability to encode TCA cycle proteins, GltA and AcnB, their activities are notably restricted. To investigate this phenomenon, we used the iNgo_557 metabolic model and incorporated a constraint on total cellular protein content. Our results indicate that low cellular protein content severely limits GltA and AcnB activity, leading to a shift towards acetate overflow for ATP production, which is more efficient in terms of protein usage. Surprisingly, increasing cellular protein content alleviates this restriction on GltA and AcnB and delays the onset of acetate overflow, highlighting protein allocation as a critical determinant in understanding Ngo's metabolic phenotype. These findings underscore the significance of Ngo's metabolic adaptation in light of optimal protein allocation, providing a blueprint to understand Ngo's metabolic landscape.

The health consequences of child marriage among rural women: Evidence from Igbo-Eze North, South-east Nigeria

Child marriage has emerged as a significant social issue due to its profound health consequences, particularly within rural communities. This study aims to investigate the health consequences associated with child marriage among rural women. Employing a phenomenological approach, this qualitative study collected information from women with firsthand experiences in the communities of Etteh and Enugu Ezike, both situated in the Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area of Enugu State. Data were collected through in-depth interviews conducted with 20 women selected through purposeful sampling. The sample encompassed married women aged 18 – 45 years, with a specific focus on those married before the age of 18. The findings revealed a significant association between child marriage and adverse physical health outcomes, including heightened rates of maternal mortality, inadequate prenatal care, and increased vulnerability to infectious diseases. Moreover, mental health assessments indicated a higher prevalence of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder among women who experienced child marriage. Reproductive health implications were also observed, with a higher incidence of obstetric complications and adverse birth outcomes among this cohort. This study sheds light on the intricate web of health consequences associated with child marriage among women in Nigerian rural communities. The findings underscore the urgency for social work interventions that address the unique challenges faced by young girls in rural communities. Recognizing the long-term repercussions of child marriage is essential for informing evidence-based strategies aimed at improving the health and well-being of affected women and promoting sustainable development in the region.

Pre-University Students’ Attitudes and Beliefs about Childbirth: Implications for Reproductive Health and Maternity Care

Objectives: To determine pre-university students’ attitudes and beliefs about childbirth and identify key sources of information and knowledge.Methods: A survey of 359 Quebec pre-university students (215 female, 144 male) was undertaken to identify sources of beliefs about birth and opinions about types of maternity care providers and place/method of delivery. Results: Prime sources for birth beliefs were family (50.7% female, 39.9% male) and media (21.9% female, 33.6% male). The dominant preferred birth model was hospital vaginal delivery attended by an obstetrician. The students’ birth preferences reflected strong support for professional supervision/intervention and skepticism about the safety of home birth and out-of-hospital birth centres. Although 9.3% of female students and no males would choose elective cesarean section (CS) for themselves or partner, 71.2% of female students and 42.4% of male students agreed that CS is “just another way of having a baby.” Most female students believed “it is a woman’s right to choose CS for herself ” and had a higher preference/acceptance of CS, compared with male students. Students characterized birth as “painful” and “miraculous” and agreed on its relative safety. Female students were more fearful and more stressed about the prospect of birth, compared with male students. Over 75% of female students were aware of the benefits of breastfeeding and planned to breastfeed. Conclusions: Most students supported in-hospital maternity care and perceived CS as normal but did not express a preference for CS for themselves or their partners. Students were unaware of the risks/benefits of CS, epidurals, and out-of-hospital birth. These findings highlight the need for health care professionals to engage young adults and to provide them with evidence-based information about maternity care options.

Shear wave elastography to assess stiffness of the human ovary and other reproductive tissues across the reproductive lifespan in health and disease†.

The ovary is one of the first organs to show overt signs of aging in the human body, and ovarian aging is associated with a loss of gamete quality and quantity. The age-dependent decline in ovarian function contributes to infertility and an altered endocrine milieu, which has ramifications for overall health. The aging ovarian microenvironment becomes fibro-inflammatory and stiff with age, and this has implications for ovarian physiology and pathology, including follicle growth, gamete quality, ovulation dynamics, and ovarian cancer. Thus, developing a non-invasive tool to measure and monitor the stiffness of the human ovary would represent a major advance for female reproductive health and longevity. Shear wave elastography is a quantitative ultrasound imaging method for evaluation of soft tissue stiffness. Shear wave elastography has been used clinically in assessment of liver fibrosis and characterization of tendinopathies and various neoplasms in thyroid, breast, prostate, and lymph nodes as a non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic tool. In this study, we review the underlying principles of shear wave elastography and its current clinical uses outside the reproductive tract as well as its successful application of shear wave elastography to reproductive tissues, including the uterus and cervix. We also describe an emerging use of this technology in evaluation of human ovarian stiffness via transvaginal ultrasound. Establishing ovarian stiffness as a clinical biomarker of ovarian aging may have implications for predicting the ovarian reserve and outcomes of Assisted Reproductive Technologies as well as for the assessment of the efficacy of emerging therapeutics to extend reproductive longevity. This parameter may also have broad relevance in other conditions where ovarian stiffness and fibrosis may be implicated, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, late off target effects of chemotherapy and radiation, premature ovarian insufficiency, conditions of differences of sexual development, and ovarian cancer. Summary sentence: Shear Wave Elastography is a non-invasive technique to study human tissue stiffness, and here we review its clinical applications and implications for reproductive health and disease.

Examining Women's HIV Protective Behaviors in Nepal.

Women's autonomy in decision making has important sexual and reproductive health implications. This study uses a nationwide analysis in Nepal to examine women's autonomy, attitude toward intimate partner violence (IPV) behaviors, and HIV-related knowledge in the execution of HIV protective behaviors such as having one sexual partner or getting an HIV test to prevent HIV transmission. Secondary data analysis was conducted using the nationally represented Nepal Demographic and Health Survey (2016-2021) dataset. The sample included 9,904 women ages 15 to 49 who self-identified as ever married. Factor analysis for women's autonomy, attitude toward IPV behaviors, and HIV-related knowledge were conducted based on social dominance theory. Structural equation modeling was conducted, and the results indicated that higher autonomy decreased the risk of HIV infection through having one sexual partner. Factors related to multiple sex partners included unemployment, religious affiliation, and age. Similarly, higher autonomy, HIV-related knowledge, having a formal job, and urban residence increased women's likelihood of taking an HIV test. Women's higher education, greater wealth, religious affiliation, and youth also correlate with HIV testing. Future HIV prevention interventions should include strategies that support women's social and economic empowerment and enhance women's ability to make informed choices about their health and risks.

The enigmatic interplay of immune cells and abnormal spermatozoa through Mendelian randomization.

Abnormal spermatozoa significantly impact reproductive health, affecting fertility rates, potentially prolonging conception time, and increasing the risk of miscarriages. This study employs Mendelian randomization to explore their potential link with immune cells, aiming to reveal their potential causal association and wider implications for reproductive health. We conducted forward and reverse Mendelian randomization analyses to explore the potential causal connection between 731 immune cell signatures and abnormal spermatozoa. Using publicly available genetic data, we investigated various immune signatures such as median fluorescence intensities (MFI), relative cell (RC), absolute cell (AC), and morphological parameters (MP). Robustness was ensured through comprehensive sensitivity analyses assessing consistency, heterogeneity, and potential horizontal pleiotropy. The MR study produced a statistically significant p-value of.0000684, Bonferroni-corrected for the 731 exposures. The Mendelian randomization analysis revealed strong indications of a reciprocal relationship between immune cell pathways and sperm integrity. When examining immune cell exposure, a potential causal link with abnormal sperm was observed in 35 different types of immune cells. Conversely, the reverse Mendelian randomization results indicated that abnormal sperm might causally affect 39 types of immune cells. These outcomes suggest a potential mutual influence between alterations in immune cell functionality and the quality of spermatozoa. This study highlights the close link between immune responses and sperm development, suggesting implications for reproductive health and immune therapies. Further research may offer crucial insights into male fertility and immune disorders.

Impact of anabolic steroids on male fertility and the role of post-cycle therapy in recovery

Impact of anabolic steroids on male fertility and the role of post-cycle therapy in recovery

Bacterial diversity in semen from stallions in three European countries evaluated by 16S sequencing

The microbiome plays a significant role in shaping the health and functioning of the systems it inhabits. The seminal microbiome of stallions has implications for the health of the reproductive tract, sperm quality during preservation and antibiotic use in semen extenders. Diverse bacteria are present on the external genital tract and a mix of commensal microorganisms populates various parts of the reproductive tract, influencing the seminal bacterial content. Other sources of bacteria include the environment, semen collection equipment, and personnel. The bacterial load can adversely affect sperm quality and fertility, particularly in artificial insemination, where semen is extended and stored before use. Antibiotics are frequently used to inhibit bacterial growth, but their effectiveness varies depending on the bacterial strains present. The aim of this study was to assess the bacterial diversity in semen from 37 healthy stallions across three European nations (Germany, Portugal, and Sweden) using 16S sequencing. Semen samples were collected from individual stallions at three AI centers; DNA extraction, sequencing, and bioinformatic analysis were performed. Differences in bacterial diversity among the stallions were seen; although bacterial phyla were shared across the regions, differences were observed at the genus level. Climate, husbandry practices, and individual variability likely contribute to these differences. These findings underscore the importance of tailoring antibiotic strategies for semen preservation based on regional bacterial profiles. The study presents a comprehensive approach to understanding the intricacies of the stallion seminal microbiome and its potential implications for reproductive technologies and animal health.

Changes in seminal plasma microecological dynamics and the mechanistic impact of core metabolite hexadecanamide in asthenozoospermia patients.

Asthenozoospermia (AZS) is a prevalent contributor to male infertility, characterized by a substantial decline in sperm motility. In recent years, large-scale studies have explored the interplay between the male reproductive system's microecology and its implications for reproductive health. Nevertheless, the direct association between seminal microecology and male infertility pathogenesis remains inconclusive. This study used 16S rDNA sequencing and multi-omics analysis to conduct a comprehensive investigation of the seminal microbial community and metabolites in AZS patients. Patients were categorized into four distinct groups: Normal, mild AZS (AZS-I), moderate AZS (AZS-II), and severe AZS (AZS-III). Microbiome differential abundance analysis revealed significant differences in microbial composition and metabolite profiles within the seminal plasma of these groups. Subsequently, patients were classified into a control group (Normal and AZS-I) and an AZS group (AZS-II and AZS-III). Correlation and cross-reference analyses identified distinct microbial genera and metabolites. Notably, the AZS group exhibited a reduced abundance of bacterial genera such as Pseudomonas, Serratia, and Methylobacterium-Methylorubrum in seminal plasma, positively correlating with core differential metabolite (hexadecanamide). Conversely, the AZS group displayed an increased abundance of bacterial genera such as Uruburuella, Vibrio, and Pseudoalteromonas, with a negative correlation with core differential metabolite (hexadecanamide). In vitro and in vivo experiments validated that hexadecanamide significantly enhanced sperm motility. Using predictive metabolite-targeting gene analysis and single-cell transcriptome sequencing, we profiled the gene expression of candidate target genes PAOX and CA2. Protein immunoblotting techniques validated the upregulation protein levels of PAOX and CA2 in sperm samples after hexadecanamide treatment, enhancing sperm motility. In conclusion, this study uncovered a significant correlation between six microbial genera in seminal plasma and the content of the metabolite hexadecanamide, which is related to AZS. Hexadecanamide notably enhances sperm motility, suggesting its potential integration into clinical strategies for managing AZS, providing a foundational framework for diagnostic and therapeutic advancements.

The Association between Histidine-Rich Glycoprotein rs10770 Genotype and Recurrent Miscarriage in Iranian Women.

Recurrent miscarriage (RM) is a significant reproductive concern affecting numerous women globally. Genetic factors are believed to play a crucial role in RM, making the histidine-rich glycoprotein (HRG) gene, a topic of interest due to its potential involvement in angiogenesis. This study is aimed at investigating the association between the HRG rs10770 genotype and RM. Blood samples were collected from a total of 200 women at the beginning of the study. Subsequently, a comparative analysis was conducted between the blood samples of 100 women with a history of RM (case group) and the blood samples of another 100 healthy women (control group). HRG rs10770 genotyping was performed through polymerase chain reaction restriction-fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP), followed by statistical analysis to evaluate the relationship between HRG rs10770 genotype and RM. The results indicated a significant statistical difference between the C/C genotype (OR = 3.32, CI: 1.22-9.04, p = 0.01) and the C/T genotype (OR = 1.24, CI: 0.67-2.30, p = 0.47) in both the case and control groups. Additionally, a significant correlation was observed in the C allelic frequency among RM participants compared to the control group (OR = 1.65, CI: 1.06-2.58, p = 0.02). The study highlights the importance of HRG rs10770 in understanding RM, shedding light on its implications for reproductive health. Furthermore, it became evident that women carrying the homozygous C/C genotype exhibited increased susceptibility to the risk of RM.

Long-term impact of commonly performed operations in pediatric urology on reproductive and sexual health.

Sexual dysfunction is highly prevalent among men of reproductive age. Clinical practice guidelines have been established to assist providers in identification and education of patients who are at increased risk for infertility and sexual dysfunction with certain congenital and acquired urogenital disorders. The authors sought to review the reproductive and sexual health implications of treating common childhood urological conditions with commonly performed surgical procedures. To ensure the inclusion of influential and highly regarded research, we prioritized citations from the most-frequently cited articles on our respective review topics. Our inclusion criteria considered studies with substantial sample sizes and rigorously designed methodologies. Several topics were reviewed, including penile chordee, hypospadias, posterior urethral valves, varicoceles, undescended testicles, and testicular torsion. For chordee, surgical plication or corporal grafting may be employed. Erectile function remains unaltered post-surgery, while penile length may decrease after repair, which may be avoided using dermal grafts. Hypospadias repair hinges on severity and availability of the urethral plate. Those who underwent hypospadias repair report decreased penile length, but sexual satisfaction, libido, and semen quality are comparable to controls. Posterior urethral valves are usually treated with valve ablation. While valve ablation and bladder neck incision have not been found to affect ejaculatory function, high degree of concurrent renal dysfunction related to nephrogenic and bladder dysfunction may impact semen parameters and erectile function. Regarding varicocele, earlier management has been associated with better long-term fertility outcomes, and surgical intervention is advisable if there is observable testicular atrophy. Earlier repair of undescended testicle with orchiopexy has been found to improve fertility rates as well as decrease malignancy rates. Unilateral orchiectomy for testicular torsion without the ability for salvage has been shown to have decreased semen parameters but unaffected fertility rates. Infertility and sexual dysfunction are multivariable entities, with etiologies both congenital and acquired. At the same time, many common pediatric urology surgeries are performed to correct anatomic pathology that may lead to reproductive dysfunction in adulthood. This review highlights the need for diagnosis and management of pediatric urologic conditions as these conditions may impact long-term sexual function post-operatively.