Plasma anti-Müllerian Hormone Research Articles

Selecting oocyte donors based on anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) concentrations: A critical analysis of using cutoff values as exclusion criterion for an in vitro embryo production program in Gir cattle

The aims of this study were to determine anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) cutoff values for selecting Gir (Bos taurus indicus) oocyte donors and estimate the impact of using AMH concentrations as a selection criterion. In Exp. 1, Gir heifers (n=120) were sampled for AMH analysis and submitted to ovum pick-up and in vitro embryo production (OPU-IVEP). AMH cutoff values were calculated using ROC analysis or, alternatively, by the successive exclusion of heifers with the lowest AMH values. The correlations between AMH and OPU-IVEP outcomes were significant (P<0.001), though low or moderate (r= 0.34–0.52). We estimated an improvement (P<0.05) after the use of AMH cutoff values to select donors of +15.3% for total oocyes, +19.4% for viable COC, and +23.4% for blastocysts. This selection pressure, however, led to the exclusion of 32.8%, 37.9%, and 50.0% of the initial potential donors, respectively. In Exp. 2, we analyzed data from OPU-IVEP sessions of 658 Gir donors with known genomic values for predicted transmitting ability for milk (GPTAm) and age at first calving (GPTAafc). The selection based on the number of oocytes recovered had no effect (P>0.05) on the average GPTAm nor GPTAafc values of the remaining donors. In summary, plasma AMH ≥700 pg/mL is a cutoff value that can be used to select Gir heifers with a greater potential as oocyte donors. Nevertheless, this selection leads to the exclusion of up to 50% of potential donors. Finally, exclusion of poor responders had no effect on mean genomic estimates for milk production or age at first calving in the selected subset of donors.

Relationship between plasma anti-Müllerian hormone concentrations in female Holstein calves immediately after birth and milk yield and composition in dams during early to mid-gestation

The energy status of dams during the early stages of gestation may affect ovarian reserve. It was hypothesized that greater milk yield and composition during the early stages of gestation may suppress the number of primordial follicles in the fetuses of dairy cattle. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), used as an indicator of ovarian reserve, in female Holstein calves immediately after birth. It also examined the relationship between the AMH concentrations and the milk yield and composition of dams during early pregnancy. A total of 85 female Holstein calves (born to first-calving cows [nulliparous heifers], n = 31; second-calving [primiparous] cows, n = 22; and third- or subsequent-calving [multiparous] cows, n = 32) were examined. Blood samples were collected from the female calves after birth and before the first colostrum feeding for the analysis of plasma AMH concentrations. Data on daily milk yield and monthly milk composition during the 1st to 6th month of pregnancy were additionally collected from milking dams. The plasma AMH concentrations ranged from 0.106 to 1542.3 pg/mL, with an average of 291.6 ± 30.5 pg/mL. There was no significant difference observed among the plasma AMH concentrations in female calves born from nulliparous heifers, primiparous cows, multiparous cows. Primiparous cows exhibited numerous negative correlations between the plasma AMH concentrations of their female calves immediately after birth and the daily milk yield and milk composition from the 1st to the 4th month of pregnancy; there was, however, no correlation observed in multiparous cows. Overall, there were large individual variations observed in the plasma AMH concentrations immediately after birth. Both milk yield and the amount of milk components strongly influenced the plasma AMH concentrations in calves immediately after birth in primiparous cows in the growth phase. These factors, conversely, did not affect the plasma AMH concentrations of calves in multiparous cows. The results of this study suggest that high-producing pregnant primiparous cows devote more energy to their growth and lactation, potentially compromising the reproductive potential of their offspring. Thus, improving the feeding management of primiparous cows with the goal of increasing the fertility of their progeny will help high-yielding dairy cows reproduce more successfully.

Melamine exposure during the weaning period negatively affects ovarian reserve.

In this study, it was aimed to investigate the effects of melamine exposure since the weaning period on ovarian tissue and ovarian reserve. Melamine is illegally added to milk and formula to provide high false protein positivity. Female rats (the weaning period = 21 days old, n = 18) were divided into 3 groups. 0.1 mL saline was applied to the control group by gavage for 21 days. Fifty mg/kg and seventy-five mg/kg melamine was dissolved in 0.1 mL of saline and applied by gavage for 21 days, respectively. At the end of the experiment, plasma anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) was measured, follicle count and ovarian diameter measurement were performed in the right ovaries, and flow cytometric analysis for apoptosis was performed in the left ovaries. While a statistically significant decrease was not observed in the number of the follicle and ovarian diameter between the control and melamine-treated groups (p > 0.05), a significant decrease in the corpus luteum and a significant increase in the number of atretic follicles were observed (p < 0.05). Apoptosis (Annexin V) increased in both melamine groups and AMH plasma level decreased significantly in the 75 mg/kg group (p < 0.05). Melamine exposure from the weaning (early postnatal) period may cause a decrease in ovarian reserve in parallel with a dose increase.

Can evaluation of seminal plasma and serum anti-Müllerian hormone be useful in the diagnosis of male infertility? (Literature review)

Background. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is secreted in men by Sertoli cells and plays an important role in the development of the male reproductive organs. High expression of AMH during embryonic development contributes to the regression of the Müllerian (paramesonephric) ducts; in the absence of AMH, the Müllerian ducts develop into the female internal genital organs. In adulthood, the clinical value of measuring AMH in serum and seminal plasma remains controversial. It is assumed that AMH, as a marker of the functional state of Sertoli cells, can be useful in the diagnosis of male infertility.Aim. To determine the clinical value of measuring serum and seminal plasma AMH levels in the diagnosis of male infertility by examining the current evidence base in the world literature.Materials and methods. A search was made for publications devoted to the study of the role of AMH in the diagnosis of male infertility in the international database PubMed, in the scientific electronic library eLIBRARY.RU and in the Google Scholar search engine. There were no restrictions regarding the status and period of publication.Results and conclusion. The results of the analysis indicate the absence of a significant relationship between the parameters of the ejaculate and the serum concentration of AMH, which does not allow using this indicator to assess male fertility. Serum AMH is of no value in the differential diagnosis of obstructive and non-obstructive azoospermia, the prediction of assisted reproductive technologies outcomes, and the prediction of testicular biopsy outcomes in the general non-obstructive azoospermia patient population. It is likely that serum AMH may be useful in predicting testicular biopsy results in patients with Klinefelter’s syndrome and idiopathic non-obstructive azoospermia.The clinical application of measuring the level of AMH in seminal plasma is limited by the high variability of this indicator, probably due to the dependence on the volume of the ejaculate and exposure to semen proteolytic enzymes. This indicator may be useful for the differential diagnosis of obstructive and non-obstructive azoospermia. In obstructive azoospermia, AMH is not detected in seminal plasma, but undetectable AMH concentrations can also be observed in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia, which reduces the differential value of this indicator. A promising direction is the use of AMH concentration in seminal plasma to predict the recovery of sperm motility after cryopreservation.

Abundance of Anti-Muellerian hormone in cat ovaries and correlation of its plasma concentration with animal age, weight and stage of the estrous cycle

In female animals of different species, Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is produced by follicular granulosa cells and has been associated with the ovarian follicle pool. Because concentration of AMH in plasma of ovary-intact female cats is apparently more variable than previously assumed, we have analysed AMH concentration in blood of cats (n = 93) presented for routine ovariectomy and assessed ovarian histology and AMH protein expression in the surgically removed ovaries. We hypothesised that AMH is synthesized only in preantral and small antral follicles and that plasma AMH concentration reflects the antral follicle count (AFC). Corpora lutea were detected in 35% of the female cats, whereas plasma progesterone concentration was ≥1 ng/mL in 57% of the cats. Follicular cysts were present in 15 cats (16%). Positive immunostaining for AMH protein was detected in close to all primordial and antral follicles, ovarian cysts, 70% of corpora lutea and 28% of atretic follicles. Concentration of AMH in plasma averaged 6.8 ± 0.5 ng/mL (range 1.3–21.7 ng/mL). The AFC increased with increasing AMH concentration with a moderate positive correlation between AFC and AMH (r = 0.286, p < 0.01). Plasma AMH concentration was not affected by season or cats’ age, weight, stage of the estrous cycle and presence of follicular cysts. In conclusion, AMH protein is expressed in all endocrine structures of the cat ovary. While AMH is a marker for the presence of ovarian tissue, its usefulness to assess ovarian function in individual female cats is of limited value.

Anti-mullerian hormone as a predictive endocrine marker for selection of White Dorper ewe lambs at prepubertal age

Identifying early puberty in ewe lambs is an important strategy to improve reproductive performance and economic results of sheep herd. The anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) has become the main endocrine marker for the ovarian reserve of growing follicles in several mammal species. This study aimed to evaluate plasma anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels in 32 prepubertal ewe lambs and their relationship with fertility in the breeding season at 12 months of age. AMH levels and presence of ovulation (corpus luteum - CL) were evaluated at 120, 150, and 180 days of age in 32 prepubertal White Dorper ewe lambs 6 days after the exogenous administration of a single dose of eCG (600 IU). The results showed that plasma AMH levels were similar in prepubertal ewe lambs regardless of age. Ovulation rates was influenced by age (P = 0.04), but not by the plasma concentration of AMH and live weight (P > 0.10). Thirteen ewe lambs from the 32 were intended to breeding, based on recommended minimum weight and body condition score (BCS) for first breeding, and exposed to the ram at 12 months of age to study the relationship between prepubertal AMH concentration and occurrence of pregnancy. Pregnant ewes were the ones with higher concentrations of AMH measured at 150 and 180 days of age (P = 0.064, 150 days; P = 0.014, 180 days) compared to the non-pregnant ones. On the other hand, pregnant and non-pregnant ewes showed no difference (P = 0.84) for AMH concentration determined at 120 days of age. Therefore, we conclude that plasma concentration of AMH at prepubertal age is reliable endocrine marker for the early identification of ewe lambs' reproductive activity and can be used as a tool for selecting fertile females.

Association of Anti-Mullerian Hormone with Some Physiological and immunological Parameters of Infertile Males.

The measurement of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), which is released in the serum and seminal fluid is a specific indicator of Sertoli cell function. This study aimed to evaluate AMH as a potential clinical indicator of infertility in maleswith normal and low sperm concentrations, as well as those with primary and secondary infertility. It was a retrospective analysis of 140 males chosen from sole infertility and IVF center in Erbil. without a known cause of infertility, 40 men with normal sperm counts, 100 men with primary, and 40 men with secondary infertility were assessed. An in-house ELISA was used to assess the serum AMH. Semen parameters, Semen and sera cytokines, and certain sex hormone mean levels were compared and correlated with AMH as the primary outcome measures. Seminal and serum AMH levels in infertile males were significantly lower. While an insignificant correlation was detected between AMH and LH, prolactin, or testosterone in azoospermic men, there was a significant adverse association between seminal AMH and FSH. A substantial positive association between seminal AMH and testosterone was found in oligospermia men, although no significant correlations were observed with FSH, LH, or prolactin. In conclusion, AMH in seminal plasma is a reliable marker of male infertility with a role in sperm production.

The effect of Anti-Mullerian hormone on yield of oocytes recovered by ovum pick-up (opu) in heifers

The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between the oocyte yield by the ovum pick-up (OPU) technique with the Anti-mullerian Hormone (AMH) concentrations of the donors. Ten healthy Holstein heifers aged 12 to 15 months were included in the study. AMH measurements were performed with Bovine VIDAS® Anti-Mülleian Hormone kits (Biomeriux, Marcy l’Etoile, France) using the Mini Vidas device. A total of 67 OPU sessions were performed on a random day of the cycle. Oocytes were classified according to their quality, and viability evaluation of oocytes was made according to the cell layer number and cumulus integrity in the cumulus-oocyte complex (COC), the homogeneity of their cytoplasm. The average oocyte yield in OPU sessions per animal was range from 4–8. There was an significant negative correlation between the collected oocyte numbers and plasma AMH levels. In conclusion, it was observed that AMH concentration did not affect the number of viable and the quality oocytes collected in weekly OPU administration in animals. It was thought that OPU applications performed without knowing the day of the cycle did not provide the expected correlation with AMH data.

Increased AMH plasma concentration and small antral follicles - Deslorelin slow release implants as a promising tool for preparation of mares for OPU?

A major factor affecting oocyte yield during ovum pick-up (OPU) procedures in mares is the number of follicles present on the ovary and the associated number of recovered oocytes (Cuervo-Arango et al. Reproduction, Fertility and Development. 2019; 31(12): 1894-1903). The interest in manipulation of ovarian follicular populations in horses is increasing because of benefits with regard to the oocyte yield and the overall outcome for assisted reproductive procedures. This study aimed to evaluate effects of slow-release implants containing deslorelin acetate on antral follicle counts (AFC), follicular subpopulations of different size ranges and plasma anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and gonadotrophin concentration in mares. Haflinger mares (n=12) were synchronized with two injections of a PGF2α analog. One day after the second injection, mares were randomly assigned to the slow-release implant (DES, 9.4mg deslorelin implant, n=6) or the control group (CON, deslorelin short-acting formulation, 1.25mg, n=6). Transrectal examination of the genital tract and collection of blood samples for the analysis of progesterone, AMH and gonadotrophins were performed until day 90 and on days of AFC assessment. AFC and follicle numbers according to size groups were determined on days 0, 10, 25, 50, 90, 180, 270 and 360 after implant insertion. The interval from implant insertion to the first spontaneous ovulation was prolonged in group DES (23.8±10.5 days) compared to CON(17.0±3.9 days) (p<0.05). Treatment influenced concentrations of LH and FSH over time (p<0.05) with the concentration of LH being greater in DES than in CON mares on days 30 and 55 and of FSH on day 15 after implant insertion, respectively (p<0.05). AMH concentration was greater in group DES from day 30 onwards (interaction treatment x time p<0.05). The AFC and the number of follicles with 5 to 10, 10 to 15 and 15 to 20 mm in diameter changed over time (p<0.05). A time x treatment interaction was demonstrated for follicles of 10 to 15 mm in diameter with more follicles of this size present in DES than in CON mares on day 90 (p<0.05). In group DES, concentration of AMH and the AFC (r=0.623, p<0.001) as well as concentration of AMH and the number of follicles 5 to 20 mm in diameter (r=0.442, p<0.01) were positively correlated whereas there was no such correlation in group CON. In conclusion, long-acting deslorelin implants induce changes in follicular development reflected in AMH plasma concentration. These changes are present from day 30 after implant insertion, suggesting that not only direct effects of deslorelin on gonadotrophin secretion but also the reduction of FSH suppressing factors from follicles such as inhibin may be involved. Treatment of mares with 9.4mg deslorelin slow-release implants might thus be a promising tool as preparation for OPU.

Long-Term Changes in Ovarian Follicles of Gilts Exposed Neonatally to Methoxychlor: Effects on Oocyte-Derived Factors, Anti-Müllerian Hormone, Follicle-Stimulating Hormone, and Cognate Receptors.

In this paper, we investigated the effects of neonatal exposure to methoxychlor (MXC), a synthetic organochlorine used as an insecticide with estrogenic, antiestrogenic, and antiandrogenic activities on ovarian follicles of adult pigs. Piglets were injected with MXC (20 μg/kg body weight) or corn oil (controls) from postnatal Day 1 to Day 10 (n = 5 per group). Then, mRNA expression, protein abundance and immunolocalization of growth and differentiation factor 9 (GDF9), bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15), anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and cognate receptors (ACVR1, BMPR1A, BMPR1B, TGFBR1, BMPR2, and AMHR2), as well as FSH receptor (FSHR) were examined in preantral and small antral ovarian follicles of sexually mature gilts. The plasma AMH and FSH levels were also assessed. In preantral follicles, neonatal exposure to MXC increased GDF9, BMPR1B, TGFBR1, and BMPR2 mRNAs, while the levels of AMH and BMP15 mRNAs decreased. In addition, MXC also decreased BMP15 and BMPR1B protein abundance. Regarding small antral follicles, neonatal exposure to MXC upregulated mRNAs for BMPR1B, BMPR2, and AMHR2 and downregulated mRNAs for AMH, BMPR1A, and FSHR. MXC decreased the protein abundance of AMH, and all examined receptors in small antral follicles. GDF9 and BMP15 were immunolocalized in oocytes and granulosa cells of preantral follicles of control and treated ovaries. All analyzed receptors were detected in the oocytes and granulosa cells of preantral follicles, and in the granulosa and theca cells of small antral follicles. The exception, however, was FSHR, which was detected only in the granulosa cells of small antral follicles. In addition, MXC decreased the plasma AMH and FSH concentrations. In conclusion, the present study may indicate long-term effects of neonatal MXC exposure on GDF9, BMP15, AMH, and FSH signaling in ovaries of adult pigs. However, the MXC effects varied at different stages of follicular development. It seems that neonatal MXC exposure may result in accelerated initial recruitment of ovarian follicles and impaired cyclic recruitment of antral follicles.

Evaluation of meibomian gland morphology and anterior segment parameters by Sirius topography systems in polycystic ovary syndrome.

To compare findings in specular microscopy, corneal topography, and noncontact meibography in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients with healthy controls. A total of 40 women with PCOS and 32 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Schirmer's test, Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), noninvasive tear break-up time (NITBUT), the mean keratometry (Km), maximum keratometry (Kmax), central (CCT), thinnest (TCT) and apical (ACT) corneal thicknesses, meibomian gland (MG) loss, meiboscores, morphology of MGs, endothelial cell density (ECD), coefficient of variation (CV), and percentage of hexagonal cells (PHEX) were analyzed. Correlations between anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and sex hormones and the findings of PCOS patients were evaluated. Mean OSDI score, intraocular pressure, Km and Kmax values, the mean MG loss of upper and lower eyelids, lower eyelid meiboscore, and degree of morphological abnormalities of MGs were higher in cases with PCOS than healthy controls. There were no significant differences between groups in Schirmer results, first and average NITBUT, mean values of TCT, ACT, CCT, ECD, CV, and PHEX (P > 0.05, for all). There were correlations between plasma AMH level and Kmax, back Km and PHEX, and between estradiol (E2) and PHEX; there were negative correlations between E2 and total MG loss and CV and between total testosterone and ACT. Loss and morphological deterioration of the MGs are observed in PCOS patients, even if the tear parameters are not impaired yet. In eyes with PCOS, keratometry values become steeper in proportion to AMH levels. The PCOS patients should be followed carefully for the development of corneal ectasia.

The effect of Covid-19 mRNA vaccine on serum anti-Müllerian hormone levels.

Does the administration of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) mRNA vaccine have an association with ovarian reserve as expressed by circulating anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels? Ovarian reserve as assessed by serum AMH levels is not altered at 3 months following mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. A possible impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination through an interaction between the oocyte and the somatic cells could not be ruled out, however, data are limited. This is a prospective study conducted at a university affiliated tertiary medical center between February and March 2021. Study population included reproductive aged women (18-42 years) that were vaccinated by two Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccines (21 days apart). Women with ovarian failure, under fertility treatments, during pregnancy, previous Covid-19 infection or vaccinated were excluded from the study. Blood samples were collected for AMH levels before the first mRNA vaccine administration. Additional blood samples after 3 months were collected for AMH and anti-Covid-19 antibody levels. Primary outcome was defined as the absolute and percentage change in AMH levels. The study group consisted of 129 women who received two mRNA vaccinations. Mean AMH levels were 5.3 (±SD 4.29) µg/l and 5.3 (±SD 4.50) µg/l at baseline and after 3 months, respectively (P = 0.11). To account for possible age-specific changes of AMH, sub-analyses were performed for three age groups: <30, 30-35 and >35 years. AMH levels were significantly lower for women older than 35 years at all times (P = 0.001 for pre and post vaccination AMH levels versus younger women). However, no significant differences for the changes in AMH levels before and after vaccinations (Delta AMH) were observed for the three age groups (P = 0.46). Additionally, after controlling for age, no association was found between the degree of immunity response and AMH levels. Although it was prospectively designed, for ethical reasons we could not assign a priori a randomized unvaccinated control group. This study examined plasma AMH levels at 3 months after the first vaccination. It could be argued that possible deleterious ovarian and AMH changes caused by the SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccinations might take effect only at a later time. Only longer-term studies will be able to examine this issue. The results of the study provide reassurance for women hesitant to complete vaccination against Covid 19 due to concerns regarding its effect on future fertility. This information could be of significant value to physicians and patients alike. The study was supported by Sheba Medical Center institutional sources. All authors have nothing to disclose. The study protocol was approved by the 'Sheba Medical Center' Ethical Committee Review Board (ID 8121-21-SMC) on 8 February 2021 and was registered at the National Institutes of Health (NCT04748172).

Assessment of anti-Müllerian hormone in mares’ transitional period and in relation to fertility in elderly mares

Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) has been linked to reproductive tract abnormalities in mares and stallions. This study aimed at evaluating AMH as a biomarker for two reproductive conditions in mares. In the first part of this study, plasma AMH was evaluated as an early indicator of the onset of cyclicity in mares in the transitional period from the anovulatory phase during winter anoestrus to the cyclic phase during the breeding season. Ten mares between 8 and 17 years old were included in the experiment which lasted from mid-February until the end of April. Ovarian activity was monitored with ultrasonography three times per week, the detection of a corpus haemorrhagicum/luteum was documented and antral follicle counts (AFC) were recorded. Blood samples were collected weekly by jugular venipuncture during the whole study period to compare AMH concentrations before and after the first ovulation of the year. The second objective was to evaluate if plasma AMH concentrations in middle-aged mares are linked to fertility and could serve as a prognostic marker in that age group. A total of 41 privately-owned clinically sound mares aged between 12 and 21 years of various breeds were inseminated with fresh or frozen semen. Mares were scanned between day 14 and 20 and the “early pregnancy rate” included only positive pregnancy examinations after the first observed cycle in the season of each mare. Potential associations between the early pregnancy rate in the first cycle and the explanatory factors AMH concentrations, age, status of the mare, stud, development of post-breeding endometritis, number of inseminations and semen type were analysed using logistic regression models. In the first part of the study, correlation between AMH and AFC for the whole study period (P = 0.0002, ρ = 0.55) as well as prior to (P = 0.008, ρ = 0.58) and after the first ovulation (P = 0.0007, ρ = 0.69) were observed. However, AMH concentrations before and after the first ovulation of the year were not statistically different. The second part of the study revealed no association between early pregnancy rate and AMH concentrations or any of the other mentioned factors. In conclusion, this study showed no evidence of a difference between AMH concentrations before and after the first ovulation of the year thus not supporting the use of AMH as a biomarker to predict the onset of cyclicity in mares. We could furthermore not show a relationship between plasma AMH concentrations and early pregnancy rates in this cohort of animals.

Predictors of low ovarian reserve in cART-treated women living with HIV.

Ovarian dysfunction and lower circulating anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) feature women living with HIV (WLWH). Because treated human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is characterized by a pro-inflammatory/oxidative phenotype resulting in residual comorbidity, we sought to investigate possible associations between plasma AMH and markers of inflammation, immune activation/senescence/exhaustion, oxidative stress as well as comorbidities in a cohort of combined anti-retroviral therapy (cART)-treated WLWH versus age-matched HIV-uninfected, healthy women.Eighty WLWH on effective cART aged 25 to 50 years and 66 age-matched healthy women were enrolled. We measured: plasma AMH, IL-6, reactive oxygen species modulator 1 (ROMO1) (ELISA); plasma tumor necrosis factor α, IL-10, soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule 1, osteopontin (Luminex); CD4/CD8 activation (CD38/CD69), apoptosis (CD95), exhaustion (PD1), maturation (CD45RA/CD45R0/CD127/CCR7), recent thymic emigrants (CD31/CD103) (flow cytometry). Mann Whitney and chi-squared tests were used. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to assess factors associated with low AMH (≤1 ng/mL).Compared to healthy women, WLWH were more frequently non-Caucasian, drug/alcohol abusers, with history of late menarche, lower hormonal contraceptive use, with higher gravidity and lower parity. WLWH showed significantly lower AMH (P = .004) as well as higher ROMO1 (P = .0003) and tumor necrosis factor α (P < .0001). The multivariate analyses revealed ROMO1 (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.42, P = .03) and HIV infection (AOR: 8.1, P = .0001) as independently associated with low AMH. The logistic regression model with both HIV status and ROMO1 (a marker of oxidative stress) confirmed HIV as the only predictor of low AMH (AOR: 17, P = .0003).Despite effective cART, WLWH showed lower AMH compared to age-matched peers, indicating pre-mature ovarian ageing. Both HIV and oxidative stress are independently associated with low AMH, emphasizing the impact of HIV-associated oxidative stress on reproductive aging.

Anti Mullerian Hormone: A Putative Endocrine Marker for Prediction of Superovulation Response in Cattle

Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) is a dimeric glycoprotein molecule with a molecular weight of 140-kDa linked to the Transforming Growth Factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily. Research on the use of AMH in livestock has gained momentum in recent years. In particular, it is now widely used in cattle breeding, where embryo transfer technology is used to obtain more offspring from genetically superior females. One of the most important factors that increase the success of embryo transfer is the response of the selected donor to the superovulation protocol. AMH has been successfully used as a biomarker in predicting superovulation response in cattle and in estimating the numbers of oocytes collected by ovum pick up (OPU). AMH plasma concentrations are positively and highly correlated with antral follicle count (AFC) in cattle and can also be used as a marker of ovarian reserve. In addition, AMH was also positively and highly correlated with the number of corpus luteum (CL) and total embryos after superovulation in several studies. It has been also reported via Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) that plasma AMH level is an inherited trait in cattle and can be improved through genomic selection. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between plasma AMH levels and superovulation response in cattle by compiling the data obtained from various studies in light of current scientific literature.

Assessment of semen parameters and Anti-müllerian hormone level in patients with chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis: a case control study

Background and Objective: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common health problem which is accompanied by considerable morbidity and mortality. Anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) is one of the hormones that are affected by CKD. The objective was to assess semen parameters and AMH level in CKD patients on hemodialysis. Material and methods: This study was a case control study of 20 patients with stage 4 and 5 CKD on hemodialysis, attending Nephrology Outpatient Clinic and Renal Dialysis Unit of Suez Canal University hospital and 20 healthy fertile controls. Full history, clinical examination, kidney function tests and semen analysis were performed. AMH level in serum and seminal plasma was measured using ELISA. Results: The mean AMH level in serum of case group was 3.35 ± 2.43 ng/mL versus 4.13 ± 3.17 ng/mL in the controls respectively (p &gt; 0.05) while mean AMH level in semen of the case group was 2.13 ± 2.64 ng/mL compared to 9.37 ± 3.79 ng/mL in controls respectively (p &lt; 0.05). There was a positive correlation between AMH in seminal plasma and sperm count, total sperm motility, progressive sperm motility and sperm viability, while the AMH level in serum was insignificantly related. Conclusion: Semen parameters in CKD patients on hemodialysis were significantly poorer than normal controls AMH in seminal plasma was significantly decreased in CKD patients (stage 4–5 on hemodialysis) and significantly correlated with the semen parameters.

Skin Mediates the Aphrodisiac Effect of UVB Light Via a Skin-Brain-Gonad Axis

Ultraviolet (UV) light affects endocrinological and behavioral aspects of human sexuality via an unknown mechanism. Using a unique male-female comparative approach, we discovered that the sexual behavioral and hormonal features enhanced by UVB are mediated by the skin. In mice, UV exposure increases hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis hormone levels, resulting in enhanced ovary size, extended estrus days, and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) expression. It likewise enhances sexual responsiveness and attractiveness of females and heterosexual interactions of both males and females. Conditional knockout of p53 specifically in skin keratinocytes abolished UV’s effects. In humans, UV exposure enhanced romantic passion in both genders, increased testosterone levels in men and correlated with heightened plasma AMH levels in women. Our data, revealing that UVB triggers a skin-brain-gonadal axis through skin p53 activation, offers therapeutic opportunities for sex-steroid-related dysfunctions. We speculate that during human furless skin evolution, the skin became the front-line regulator of the response to UVB.

OVARIAN AGING AND REPRODUCTIVE SENESCENCE IN MOUSE MODEL OF MITOCHONDRIAL DYSFUNCTION

To evaluate the mechanisms of female reproductive aging and senescence induced by mitochondrial dysfunction in mice. Prospective cohort design study. 13 female mice with mitochondrial dysfunction (mtDNA-depleter) and 13 wild-type (WT) female mice were studied at three time points in their reproductive life cycle: 4-6, 8-10, and 11-12 months of age. A transgenic mouse model with an inducible gene for mitochondrial dysfunction (mtDNA-depleter) was previously created by our lab. All protocols were approved by our institutional IACUC. At each of the three time points, reproductive markers were assessed, including estrous cyclicity, plasma anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), ovarian follicles, estrogen receptor staining, and uterine and vaginal atrophy. Breeding experiments were performed to assess fertility. Differences between the mtDNA-depleter and WT groups were evaluated by independent two-sample t-test. Twenty-six female mice were studied from 4 to 12 months of age. The estrous cycles in 4-6-month mtDNA-depleter mice were prolonged, 9.4 days (n = 7), versus 5.3 days in WT (n = 9), p-value of 0.021. By 11-12 months, both groups had prolonged estrous cycles consistent with physiologic aging. AMH levels in 4-6-month mtDNA-depleter mice were decreased, 84 (n = 4), versus 114 ng/mL in WT (n = 5), p-value of 0.013. AMH was reduced in older mice at 8-10 and 11-12 months, but there were no significant differences between groups. Looking at the data collectively for all three time points, there were fewer tertiary (early antral, antral, or pre-ovulatory) follicles in mtDNA-depleter mice than in WT, 3.5 versus 4.9 per cut section, respectively (p-value of 0.039). There were fewer corpora lutea in mtDNA-depleter mice than in WT, 0.90 versus 1.7 per cut section, respectively (p-value of 0.027). Collectively, average uterine weight in mtDNA-depleter mice was lower, 62.2, versus 92.3 mg in WT mice, p-value of 0.0028. Vaginal epithelium in 4-6-month mtDNA-depleter mice was thinner, 98 μm (n = 4), versus 200 μm in WT mice (n = 4), p-value of 0.035. In breeding experiments, mtDNA-depleter mice at age 3 and 5 months did not produce litters. Estrogen receptor levels were reduced in mtDNA-depleter mouse ovary relative to WT, evident from both immunofluorescence and semi-quantitative PCR analysis. Mitochondrial dysfunction in mice is associated with premature reproductive aging and senescence, as evidenced by early onset of prolonged estrous cycles, diminished ovarian reserve, uterine and vaginal atrophy, and sterility. Mitochondrial dysfunction is also associated with premature estrogen receptor down-regulation in the mouse ovary.

Anti-Mullerian hormone and its relationship to ovulation response and fertility in timed AI Bos indicus heifers.

This study evaluated the association between plasma anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) concentration and fertility in Nelore (Bos indicus) heifers submitted to timed artificial insemination (TAI). At the onset of the synchronization protocol, heifers (n=289) received a subcutaneous P4 ear implant (3mg) and 2mg of oestradiol benzoate. Eight days later, the P4 implant was removed and 0.5mg of oestradiol cypionate, prostaglandin (0.265mg, i.m.) and equine chorionic gonadotropin (300UI, i.m.) was administered, and TAI was performed 48hr after ear implant removal. Ovarian ultrasound evaluations were performed to measure number of ovarian follicles, dominant follicle size and ovulation response. Pregnancy diagnosis was performed by ultrasound 30days after AI. Heifers with greater circulating AMH had more antral follicles, a smaller dominant follicle near timed ovulation and lower ovulation response to the timed AI protocol compared to heifers with lower circulating AMH. Although AMH and pregnancy outcome had a quadratic-shaped pattern, AMH was not significantly associated with fertility. In conclusion, heifers with lower AMH had larger follicles towards the end of the synchronization protocol and greater ovulation responses, whereas greater circulating AMH was unrelated to conception success.

CORRELATION BETWEEN PLASMA LEAD AND SERUM ANTI MULLERIAN HORMONE LEVELS IN WOMEN WITH PREMATURE OVARIAN FAILURE

Background: Lead is a highly toxic metal to humans, with the injurious effects on the hemopoietic, nervous and reproductive system. Lead crosses the placenta during pregnancy and has been associated with intrauterine death, prematurity and low birth weight. Objective: To collate between plasma lead and serum antimullerian hormone levels in women with premature ovarian failure, by estimation of level of Anti Mullerian Hormone (AMH), Follicular Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Estradiol (E2) and plasma Lead level. Subjects and Method: This study was conducted in Al Azhar University Hospital outpatient clinics after approval of the research and ethical committee during the period from December 2015 to December 2018. Study groups were: Group 1 included 50 normal candidate women under 40 years old has regular menstrual cycles (21-35 days), fertile (at least one natural pregnancy carried to term), and serum FSH was less than 10 mlU/ml, Group 2 included 50 patients with premature ovarian failure who aged under 40 years with absence of spontaneous menstrual bleeding for more than 12 months, serum estradiol level was less than 25pg/ml, serum FSH level more than 40 mlU/ml. AMH, plasma lead level in patients with premature ovarian failure diagnosed and correlated with level of serum FSH with the normal control group. Results: There was a statistically significant positive correlation between plasma lead levels with FSH among the study group. On the other hand, there was no statistically significant correlation between plasma lead level and AMH level. Conclusion: The anti mullerian hormone showed a significant difference between the cases of premature ovarian insufficiency and the control group. Moreover, AMH was a good marker for ovarian reserve and ovarian response for gonadotropins simulation. Chronic exposures to heavy metals, especially lead, affected the ovarian function and impairment in folliculogenesis which increased the incidence of Premature Ovarian Failure (POF) especially in rural area due to the low socioeconomic status.