Role In Infertility Research Articles

Study Offers Insights Into Male HPV Infection's Potential Role in Infertility.

Study Offers Insights Into Male HPV Infection's Potential Role in Infertility.

Usefulness of mindfulness for the management of anxiety, stress, and quality of life in infertile women. A clinical exploratory study.

Infertility increases stress and affects life quality. Mindfulness reduces stress and improves life quality, but its role in infertility remains unclear. To evaluate the effect of mindfulness on stress and quality of life of women with infertility. An exploratory clinical study was conducted in women under infertility treatment, together with an 8-week mindfulness intervention (MND) or only infertility treatment (CTRL). Anxiety and quality of life were assessed at baseline and at the end of intervention with IDARE and FertiQoL questionnaires respectively, as well as salivary alpha-amylase and cortisol concentrations. Non-parametric statistics was used for analysis using an alpha value of 0.10. 14 MND and 15 CTRL completed follow-up. At baseline, CTRL patients exhibited better quality of life than MND; anxiety scores correlated negatively with quality of life. At the end of intervention, cortisol concentrations (p = 0.097), and the increments of amylase (p = 0.039), were higher in CTRL than in MND. Increases in quality of life were associated with basal anxiety score (p = 0.002), improvements in tolerability (p < 0.001), and mindfulness intervention (p = 0.014). Our results suggest that mindfulness reduces stress and improves quality of life in women under infertility treatment.

P-575 Application of biomarkers in obese infertile women: a genetic tool for a personalized treatment

Abstract Study question Investigate CART and Leptin gene expression, FSH Receptor Asn680Ser polymorphism, and reproductive hormones in patients suffering from obesity under 40, facing infertility, undergoing bariatric surgery. Summary answer The present study proposes that variations in CART, leptin expressions, and the Polymorphism Asn680Ser on the FSH Receptor, may influence the response to IVF treatment. What is known already Obesity, presents a multifaceted challenge with profound implications for fertility, particularly concerning hormonal disruptions in reproductive hormones. Research has shown that Asn680Ser polymorphism of FSH Receptor has a pivotal role in infertility. Notably identified as a singular factor sufficient for infertility, this polymorphism influences the response of the FSH receptor to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Leptin activates the expression of CART neuropeptide, indicating a significant interplay between these two regulatory factors. In ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) of obese patients, elevated CART levels have been observed, with leptin stimulation increasing CART expression and subsequently inhibiting GC aromatase expression and steroidogenesis. Study design, size, duration A total of 29 women were included in the study. An hormonal profile along with a detection of CART and Leptin gene expression was evaluated before and after bariatric surgery. Additionally, the presence or absence of Asn680Ser of FSHR gene was studied. Participants/materials, setting, methods Participants had suffer from obesity and experiencing infertility, with a body mass index (BMI) equal to or greater than 40 kg/m². Only women below 40 were included. Blood samples were collected from all women before surgery and 6 months later. Total RNA was extracted from blood samples. To assess the gene expression of Leptin and CART, we utilized Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR). The FSHR polymorphism was detected by using the RFLP method. Main results and the role of chance Following bariatric surgery, a mean reduction in BMI (16.03 kg/m²) was observed in all women, reaching high statistical significance (p &amp;lt; 0.001). The intervention also yielded significant differences (p &amp;lt; 0.001) in hormone levels and gene expressions post-surgery, with FSH, LH, E2, and AMH displaying noteworthy variations. Further investigations explored associations between CART and leptin gene expression before and after the intervention, coupled with the detection of the Polymorphism Asn680Ser on the FSH Receptor. Elevated CART expression before treatment correlated with lower expression after treatment (rs = 0.51, p = 0.005), and a similar significant correlation was noted for leptin (rs = 0.75, p &amp;lt; 0.001). Genetic analysis revealed that 27.6% of patients were homozygous for the polymorphism, 44.8% were heterozygous, and it was absent in 27.6%. An ongoing statistical analysis is realized to establish a potential relationship between the presence/absence of the polymorphism and CART and Leptin expression. Limitations, reasons for caution The study’s limitations encompass a small patient cohort, exclusively pre- and post-bariatric surgery assessments. Expanding the sample to include diverse groups—infertile women with lower BMI and high BMI women without fertility issues—would enhance validity. Furthermore, examining gene expression in all participants one year post-surgery could provide valuable insights. Wider implications of the findings Our results underscores the positive impact of bariatric surgery on BMI decrease and possible link between surgical intervention, genetic markers, and hormonal alterations and consequently with infertility issues. These significant correlations may be applied for personalized therapeutic approaches, offering a valuable genetic tool for improved fertility outcomes in obese individuals. Trial registration number not applicable

Advancements in the detection and implications of sperm-immobilizing antibodies in female infertility

This review highlights over five decades of research on sperm-immobilizing antibodies (SI-Abs), which are crucial for understanding female infertility due to their effects on sperm motility and fertilization. Since the 1960s, Isojima et al. have made significant strides, notably with the Sperm Immobilization Test (SIT), which revolutionized the quantification of SI-Abs and their roles in infertility. Drawing from a comprehensive PubMed search on "the sperm immobilization test" and "sperm immobilizing antibody," our review underscores the critical insights gained into SI-Abs' impact on reproductive functions. SI-Abs result from the body's response to sperm antigens, potentially leading to infertility by affecting post-intercourse sperm function. However, the presence of anti-sperm antibodies does not guarantee infertility, indicating a complex relationship between these antibodies and reproductive outcomes. Isojima et al.'s pioneering studies paved the way for SIT and sperm immobilization titer (SI50), tools that have clarified the link between SI-Abs and infertility, focusing on disrupted sperm mobility and fertilization as key infertility mechanisms. Clinically, interventions such as in-vitro fertilization (IVF), which bypasses or eliminates SI-Abs, have improved pregnancy rates, whereas Freund's complete adjuvant therapy has deepened our understanding of infertility mechanisms. The SI50 value is crucial for predicting fertility treatment success and guiding therapeutic decisions based on antibody levels. In summary, the evolution of SI-Abs research has provided new hope for addressing infertility, significantly enriching the field of reproductive immunology, and highlighting the need for ongoing investigation.

Evaluation of the effect of the antioxidant complex “BESTFertil-DHA” on spermogram parameters and the index of sperm DNA fragmentation in men from infertile couples with metabolic syndrome

Introduction.Antioxidant therapy is the optimal type of treatment for idiopathic male infertility due to the good ratio of efficacy and safety. Considering that oxidative stress is one of the pathogenetic links in sperm DNA damage, antioxidant drugs can also reduce the DNA fragmentation index. Men who are overweight or severely obese have a high risk of sexual dysfunction and reproductive disorders. Antioxidant therapy plays a leading role in infertility associated with metabolic syndrome. The main active ingredients in «BESTFertil-DHA» are L-carnitine, eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids, the action of which is complemented by other components, which makes the use of the complex attractive in combination with male infertility and metabolic syndrome. However, it is unknown how well they work with a combination of these pathological conditions.Aim.Is to evaluate the effectiveness of administration of Russian complex «BESTFertil-DHA» on spermogram parameters and the index of sperm DNA fragmentation in men from infertile couples with metabolic syndrome.Materials and methods.The study included 60 patients divided into cohort A- 26 patients with metabolic syndrome, cohort B- 34 patients without metabolic syndrome. All patients received «BESTFertil-DHA». All patients underwent a spermogram, an analysis for the fermentation of sperm DNA, blood for sex hormones, markers of metabolic syndrome on the first visit, and on the 2nd visit after therapy.Results.In cohort A, significant results were observed in terms of weight, BMI, C-reactive protein level, and HOMA-IR index. There is a significant improvement in the parameters of the spermogram, a decrease in the index of fragmentation of sperm DNA, a decrease in estradiol, normalization of the T/E2 index. In cohort B, changes in weight, BMI and a number of spermological parameters were observed, there were no changes in metabolic and endocrine parameters.Conclusion.Combined antioxidant therapy in the form of a complex of nutrients «BESTFertil-DHA» effectively reduces the index of fragmentation of sperm DNA and leads to normalization of spermogram parameters, both in the general cohort of patients and among men with metabolic syndrome. Moreover, in the latter, the «BESTFertilDHA» complex in combination with measures to reduce body weight gives additional therapeutic effects, affecting carbohydrate metabolism, aromatization of testosterone and the severity of systemic inflammation.

Building an Understanding of Proteostasis in Reproductive Cells: The Impact of Reactive Carbonyl Species on Protein Fate.

Significance: Stringent regulation of protein homeostasis pathways, under both physiological and pathological conditions, is necessary for the maintenance of proteome fidelity and optimal cell functioning. However, when challenged by endogenous or exogenous stressors, these proteostasis pathways can become dysregulated with detrimental consequences for protein fate, cell survival, and overall organism health. Most notably, there are numerous somatic pathologies associated with a loss of proteostatic regulation, including neurodegenerative disorders, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers. Recent Advances: Lipid oxidation-derived reactive carbonyl species (RCS), such as 4-hydroxynonenal (4HNE) and malondialdehyde, are relatively underappreciated purveyors of proteostatic dysregulation, which elicit their effects via the nonenzymatic post-translational modification of proteins. Emerging evidence suggests that a subset of germline proteins can serve as substrates for 4HNE modification. Among these, prevalent targets include succinate dehydrogenase, heat shock protein A2 and A-kinase anchor protein 4, all of which are intrinsically associated with fertility. Critical Issues: Despite growing knowledge in this field, the RCS adductomes of spermatozoa and oocytes are yet to be comprehensively investigated. Furthermore, the manner by which RCS-mediated adduction impacts protein fate and drives cellular responses, such as protein aggregation, requires further examination in the germline. Given that RCS-protein adduction has been attributed a role in infertility, there has been sparked research investment into strategies to prevent lipid peroxidation in germ cells. Future Directions: An increased depth of knowledge regarding the mechanisms and substrates of RCS-mediated protein modification in reproductive cells may reveal important targets for the development of novel therapies to improve fertility and pregnancy outcomes for future generations.

FEATURES OF IMMUNOLOGICAL CHANGES IN INFERTILITY DIAGNOSIS

The aim. To study and summarize modern immunological methods of laboratory diagnosis of the causes of infertility.&#x0D; Materials and methods. An analytical review and analysis of the scientific literature in recent years, covering the study of immunological causes of infertility and, accordingly, the use of immunological methods of diagnosis and treatment of infertility.&#x0D; Results and discussion. Infertility treatment is an urgent medical problem because, according to the WHO, every sixth person faces this problem during their lifetime. Immunological aspects play an important role in infertility and account for 5% of infertility among men and women. In cases where the cause of infertility cannot be explained by the presence of specific organic signs in a couple, the identification of immunological mechanisms of infertility becomes more crucial. The immunological causes of infertility are still underestimated, as the mother’s immune system plays a major role in the successful implantation of the embryo and the carrying of a pregnancy. The relevant areas of immunological research are HLA typing to determine the immunological «compatibility» of couples, the study of the role of antisperm antibodies (ASA) in the development of infertility, and the use of exosomes as biomarkers of reproductive system diseases that may be the cause of infertility. In accordance with the material reviewed, we have identified the main areas of research into the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of infertility, which require further detailed study for the successful overcoming of infertility in the future.&#x0D; Conclusion. We have reviewed the articles that included materials on the study of immunological methods of infertility research and identified three currently relevant methods for identifying the causes and diagnosis of this disease, which continue to require thorough study to solve the problems of infertility. Carriage of the HLA-DQA1*5 allele can be used as a marker of the degree of HLA-DQA1 compatibility of a couple, as well as the use of some exosome markers, such as endometriosis-specific exosome characteristics such as miR-214-3p, EVLGMNP1, AFAP1-AS1. There is also no doubt that there is a high correlation between elevated levels of ASA and female infertility, so special attention should be paid to ASA in the diagnosis of male infertility.

Vitamin D and Hormonal Associations in Female Infertility: AMH and FSH Correlation

Introduction: Infertility poses significant challenges to couples, impacting emotional well-being. Vitamin D's role in reproductive health, particularly its potential influence on Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) production, remains a subject of debate. Previous studies present conflicting findings regarding the relationship between vitamin D and AMH levels. Objectives: This study aimed to elucidate the correlation between serum vitamin D, AMH, and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) levels in women facing infertility. The research sought to assess variations in vitamin D, AMH, and FSH concentrations, exploring their potential roles in infertility. Materials and Methods: The study involved 120 infertile women aged 22-43 years. Serum samples were collected and analyzed for vitamin D, AMH, and FSH levels. Statistical analyses, including one-way ANOVA and chi-square tests, were employed to examine associations. Results: Among participants, 60% exhibited vitamin D deficiency, and no significant correlation was found between vitamin D levels and AMH across different age groups. The study observed variations in AMH and FSH levels, emphasizing the complex interplay in infertility. Conclusion: This investigation underscores the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in infertile women and challenges the purported direct link between vitamin D and AMH. Results indicate a nuanced relationship, necessitating further research to unravel the intricate dynamics of vitamin D's impact on reproductive markers in infertility

An unbiased approach of molecular characterization of the endometrium: toward defining endometrial-based infertility.

Infertility is a complex condition affecting millions of couples worldwide. The current definition of infertility, based on clinical criteria, fails to account for the molecular and cellular changes that may occur during the development of infertility. Recent advancements in sequencing technology and single-cell analysis offer new opportunities to gain a deeper understanding of these changes. The endometrium has a potential role in infertility and has been extensively studied to identify gene expression profiles associated with (impaired) endometrial receptivity. However, limited overlap among studies hampers the identification of relevant downstream pathways that could play a role in the development of endometrial-related infertility. To address these challenges, we propose sequencing the endometrial transcriptome of healthy and infertile women at the single-cell level to consistently identify molecular signatures. Establishing consensus on physiological patterns in endometrial samples can aid in identifying deviations in infertile patients. A similar strategy has been used with great success in cancer research. However, large collaborative initiatives, international uniform protocols of sample collection and processing are crucial to ensure reliability and reproducibility. Overall, the proposed approach holds promise for an objective and accurate classification of endometrial-based infertility and has the potential to improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes.

The association between cervical HPV and female fertility

Objective: Genital human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the most common sexually transmitted viral infection worldwide with a prevalence of 10-12% in the female population in the reproductive age; few studies addressed the effect of HPV infection on fertility. It is aimed to investigate the presence of HPV infection in infertile women in the present study.&#x0D; &#x0D; Materials and methods: In this retrospective cross-sectional study; the outpatient infertility clinic records between July 2020 and January 2023, were evaluated. Infertility examination and evaluation were performed following the guidelines. Infertile female individuals and control group’s HPV results were analyzed.&#x0D; &#x0D; Results: 234 infertile and 340 non-infertile females were included in the study, HPV positivity was found %11.5 for all infertile women. No significant relationship was found between and HPV (p=0.850).&#x0D; &#x0D; Conclusion: No significant association was found between female infertility and HPV. Still HPV may play a role in infertility with different genotypes. Further studies should include HPV genotypes.

Association Between Demographic Characteristics and Sperm DNA Fragmentation Index in Infertile Men

Background: The DNA fragmentation index (DFI) is an essential marker in evaluating male fertility. Lifestyle is supposed to have a remarkable effect on enhancing this index and, subsequently, male fertility. Objectives: This study investigated the relationship between lifestyle habits and sperm DFI in infertile men admitted to Shahid Rahimi and Shohada-ye Ashayer hospitals in Khorramabad, Iran, from 2020 to 2021. Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was performed on 222 infertile men. The samples were divided into three groups based on their sperm DFI: &lt; 15%, 15 - 30%, and &lt; 30%. In each group, alcohol consumption, smoking, age, and body mass index (BMI) were compared. The analysis was performed by SPSS software (version 22) using the chi-square test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test. Results: The mean age of patients was 37.45 ± 5.99 years. The DFI was &lt; 15%, 15 - 30%, and 30% &lt; in 119 (53.6%), 69 (31.1%), and 34 (15.3%) individuals, respectively. The mean age in the DFI groups of less than 15%, 15 - 30%, and more than 30% was 35.88, 38.17, and 41.52 years, respectively. The analysis showed a significant difference in the mean age of the three groups (P &lt; 0.05). However, there was no significant relationship between smoking, alcohol consumption, and BMI with DFI (P &gt; 0.05). Conclusions: There was no significant relationship between lifestyle factors and DFI. However, large-scale studies are required to evaluate the role of these factors, as if their role in infertility is proven, lifestyle modification might be a potential method for managing infertility.

Ovarian reserve in women with cystic fibrosis: is this a cause of sub-fertility?

BackgroundOver the past two decades, increasing number of people with cystic fibrosis (CF) survive into adulthood. Compared to the general population, sub-fertility is an obstacle for many women with CF (wwCF). Decreased ovarian reserve has been proposed as a possible cause, but limited data is available to support this. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ovarian reserve in wwCF and to correlate this with patients’ demographic and clinical data.MethodsReproductive-aged wwCF were enrolled during their routine medical appointments. Assessment included Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels, routine blood tests and antral follicular count (AFC) evaluation. Additionally, demographic, and clinical information were collected.ResultsA total of wenty-three wwCF were enrolled, with ages ranging from 19 to 40 years (median 27 years). Among the fourteen wwCF who were considering pregnancy, five (35.7%) disclosed undergoing an infertility assessment and receiving fertility treatments. All but one patient had an Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) level between the 5th and 95th % for age. Measurement of the antral follicular count (AFC) was possible in 12 of the 23 patients and was ranging 8–40 with a median of 17. The proportion of wwCF presenting below median AMH values was not different in sub-fertile as compared to fertile wwCF (P value 0.54). There were no correlations between AMH levels and disease severity parameters. AMH seemed to be relatively higher in wwCF with mild class mutations, but this was not shown to have statistical significance.ConclusionsOur results, in contrast with the limited available published data, do not support the hypothesis that decreased ovarian reserve plays a major role in infertility in wwCF.

A role of nasya in the management of anovulatory cycles

Infertility (Stree Vandhyatva) is defined as not being able to get pregnant despite having frequent, unprotected coitus for at least a year for most couples. Among the three eshanas that are described in our context, Putraishana-aspiration for the child is the strongest desire of all the married couple. Beeja especially streebeeja is the only entity which don’t have any alternative as it is the principle component which resembles a family in future as their own being. The beejdushti is related with anovulation. Ovarian factor contribute 15-25% and is the second common cause of infertility. As compared to modern science, this beejdushti can be well treated with Nasya karma explained in Ayurveda. Nasya means nothing but administration of medicine through nose. Hypothalamus plays an important role in infertility due to anovulation. Nasya acts on hypothalamus as well as pituitary gland.

O-258 Characterization of vaginal microbiota during IVF fresh embryo transfer (IVF-ET) and in early pregnancy

Abstract Study question Does the composition of vaginal microbiota affect the success of IVF-ET? Does vaginal microbiota profile change intra-individually from IVF-ET to early pregnancy? Summary answer L. crispatus is associated with successful IVF outcome. The individual composition of vaginal microbiota tends to shift towards Lactobacillus-dominance between IVF-ET and early pregnancy. What is known already Lactobacilli are the most abundant species in healthy female reproductive tract microbiota and especially Lactobacillus crispatus is associated with good gynecological health. The composition of vaginal microbiota may also play an important role in infertility and the success of IVF. Women with Lactobacillus-dominated vaginal microbiota may have higher pregnancy rates after IVF-ET compared to women with non-Lactobacillus dominance, but the results have been controversial. In healthy pregnancy, vaginal microbiota is usually lactobacilli-dominated, whereas miscarriages are associated to a non-lactobacillus dominance. The intra-individual shift on the vaginal microbiota from ET to early pregnancy has not been studied earlier. Study design, size, duration This observational and longitudinal study investigates the effect of vaginal microbiota on the success of fresh IVF-ET. Another aim was to study the intra-individual changes in the microbiota profile between IVF-ET and early pregnancy. We recruited 76 subfertile women undergoing IVF with their own gametes between November 2019 and September 2021 in the Reproductive Medicine Unit, Helsinki University Hospital and in Oulu University Hospital. Main outcomes were clinical pregnancy and live birth. Participants/materials, setting, methods Study population composed of 76 subfertile women under 40 years of age. One IVF cycle including fresh embryo transfer was studied. Vaginal swabs were taken at the time of IVF-ET and at 8th gestational week. Samples were frozen in − 20 °C and moved to − 80 °C within four weeks. Microbiota analysis was performed with next-generation sequencing of 16S rRNA gene using Illumina MiSeq technology. Clinical data were collected from the patient registries and background questionnaires. Main results and the role of chance Altogether 30 (39.5%) of the 76 women achieved pregnancy after IVF-ET and 26 (34.2%) had live birth. The relative abundance of L. crispatus among women who achieved clinical pregnancy (46.9% vs. 19.1%, q = 0.003) and live birth (43.3% vs. 19.1%, q = 0.006) was significantly higher compared to women who did not. After adjusting for age, parity and gravidity, the results remained similar when comparing clinical pregnancy (q = 0.039), but in live birth, the difference lost significance (q = 0.14) Vaginal samples were taken at the 8th gestational week from 21 of 30 women who got pregnant. All samples were dominated by Lactobacillus species, mainly by L. crispatus (n = 16, 76.2%). Only two (9.2%) women had L. iners dominated microbiota at the early pregnancy. When comparing samples taken during fresh IVF-ET and early pregnancy, L. crispatus had significantly higher relative abundance in early pregnancy samples compared to the samples taken at the ET (71.5% vs. 43.4%, q = 0.001), whereas the relative abundance of L. iners (10.1% vs. 24.1%, q = 0.004), and G. vaginalis (0.8% vs. 14.7%, q = 0.004) decreased. Altogether 13 women had an intra-individual shift in their microbiota profiles. Limitations, reasons for caution The small sample size was the main limitation of our study. Larger studies are needed to confirm our findings and their relationship with the success of IVF-ET. Wider implications of the findings Vaginal microbiota at the time of fresh IVF-ET has an impact of the success of IVF treatment. Also, the intra-individual composition of vaginal microbiota between IVF-ET and early pregnancy changes in some women. The vaginal microbiota modification through probiotics in order to optimize the result of IVF warrants more studies. Trial registration number Not applicable

Association of the uterine microbiome to mare fertility

Currently, limited information on the microbiome (community of microorganisms) and its role in infertility in the equine uterus is available beyond the detection of specific pathogens in some subfertile mares. Given that less than 1% of environmental bacteria are cultivable on common media (Handelsman, J. 2004, Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 68, 669-685.), it is likely that these cultured species represent a minority of the resident population. The overarching objectives of this project were to i) identify the resident uterine microbiome in estrus ii) assess how this microbiome evolves over time and iii) compare traditional culture-dependent methods of assessing the presence of bacteria in the equine uterus with 16S rRNA sequencing. Uterine cytobrush and swab samples were collected from 157 maiden Thoroughbred mares aged 8 years or younger and 116 Thoroughbred barren mares aged 4 to 15 years at the first reproductive exam of the breeding season. A second sample was collected from mares that were not pregnant at the end of the season (n=23). Furthermore, 20 of the mares were sampled in three consecutive breeding seasons. All cytobrush samples were placed and stored in RNAlater and kept at -20° C until further processing. Uterine swabs were plated on sheep blood and MacConkey plates, incubated at 37° C in aerobic conditions and assessed for bacterial growth at 24, 48 and 72 hours. DNA was extracted from cytobrush samples using routine methods. The genomic DNArecovered was used as a template for PCR amplification of the V3–V4 variable region of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene. Amplicons were sequenced on the Illumina MiSeq platform. DNA sequencing data was then processed to assess the equine microbiome composition. The richness (number of bacterial species) and evenness (distribution of bacterial numbers) of bacterial genetic sequences was compared between maiden, barren and wet mares and correlated with reproductive success. The microbiome was highly dynamic and changed significantly between seasons within mares with a limited “core microbiome” being detected. In some mares, conventional culture techniques failed to identify known equine genital pathogens that were detected using 16S rRNA sequencing. While the richness and evenness of the microbiome was comparable in maiden, dry and wet mares, the overall bacterial abundance was higher in mares that were barren at the beginning of the season and failed to become pregnant during the season, when compared to successfully bred barren mares and all maiden mares. This was the first time the microbiome of the equine uterus was studied over several timepoints/seasons. Future studies could explore a prognostic test that allows prediction of fertility in barren mares. This work was funded by AgriFutures Australia.

Contaminants of Emerging Concern (CECs) and Male Reproductive Health: Challenging the Future with a Double-Edged Sword.

Approximately 9% of couples are infertile, with half of these cases relating to male factors. While many cases of male infertility are associated with genetic and lifestyle factors, approximately 30% of cases are still idiopathic. Contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) denote substances identified in the environment for the first time or detected at low concentrations during water quality analysis. Since CEC production and use have increased in recent decades, CECs are now ubiquitous in surface and groundwater. CECs are increasingly observed in human tissues, and parallel reports indicate that semen quality is continuously declining, supporting the notion that CECs may play a role in infertility. This narrative review focuses on several CECs (including pesticides and pharmaceuticals) detected in the nearshore marine environment of False Bay, Cape Town, South Africa, and deliberates their potential effects on male fertility and the offspring of exposed parents, as well as the use of spermatozoa in toxicological studies. Collective findings report that chronic in vivo exposure to pesticides, including atrazine, simazine, and chlorpyrifos, is likely to be detrimental to the reproduction of many organisms, as well as to sperm performance in vitro. Similarly, exposure to pharmaceuticals such as diclofenac and naproxen impairs sperm motility both in vivo and in vitro. These contaminants are also likely to play a key role in health and disease in offspring sired by parents exposed to CECs. On the other side of the double-edged sword, we propose that due to its sensitivity to environmental conditions, spermatozoa could be used as a bioindicator in eco- and repro-toxicology studies.

Infertility and perceived chance of conception among men in Malawi

Infertility is a common experience among individuals and couples worldwide, but few studies focus on men’s reports of infertility or perceived chance of conceiving, particularly in high-fertility, pronatalist contexts where infertility is highly stigmatized. Using data from the fourth wave of the Umoyo wa Thanzi (UTHA) cohort study in rural Central Malawi (2017–2018), we examine the relationship between self-reported infertility, the perceived chance of conceiving within one year, and sociodemographic characteristics among men (N = 484). While 13% of men reported that they had experienced infertility, just 4% of men perceived that they were unlikely or there was no chance they would conceive with their partner within one year of having sex without contraception. In multivariable logistic regression models, older age was associated with experienced infertility (AOR: 1.06, p < 0.05) and higher parity was associated with lower odds of reporting that conception was unlikely or there was no chance of conception (AOR: 0.08; p < 0.05). We argue that additional research on infertility focusing on men is critical in gaining a more holistic and gender-equitable understanding of infertility. Including men in infertility research may also contribute to destigmatizing infertility among both women and men by acknowledging men’s roles in infertility.

Green Tea and Benign Gynecologic Disorders: A New Trick for An Old Beverage?

Green tea is harvested from the tea plant Camellia sinensis and is one of the most widely consumed beverages worldwide. It is richer in antioxidants than other forms of tea and has a uniquely high content of polyphenolic compounds known as catechins. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), the major green tea catechin, has been studied for its potential therapeutic role in many disease contexts, including pathologies of the female reproductive system. As both a prooxidant and antioxidant, EGCG can modulate many cellular pathways important to disease pathogenesis and thus has clinical benefits. This review provides a synopsis of the current knowledge on the beneficial effects of green tea in benign gynecological disorders. Green tea alleviates symptom severity in uterine fibroids and improves endometriosis through anti-fibrotic, anti-angiogenic, and pro-apoptotic mechanisms. Additionally, it can reduce uterine contractility and improve the generalized hyperalgesia associated with dysmenorrhea and adenomyosis. Although its role in infertility is controversial, EGCG can be used as a symptomatic treatment for menopause, where it decreases weight gain and osteoporosis, as well as for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Genetic Counseling in a Couple with Primary Infertility

Background: Couples unable to conceive and bear children could feel deep disappointment, often leading to depression. Infertility is one of the main reasons couples are not able to have children. Genetic counseling role in infertility ranges from explanation about possible genetic causes of infertility, pregnancy planning, and advice for treatment. Case Presentation: A couple with 16 years of infertility was referred to the genetic clinic at National Diponegoro Hospital. The 42 years old female had previous history of diabetes mellitus, obesity, and had treatment of epilepsy/seizure 15 years ago with routine carbamazepine therapy for 2 years, while her 42 years old husband had active hepatitis B infection for 15 years. This couple underwent insemination program twice and once completed In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), both management bearing no successful implantation or viable pregnancy. Recently, she underwent a laparoscopy procedure, which gave new diagnosis of endometriosis and adenomyosis. Chromosomal examination and Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (MTHFR) C677T and A1298C alleles analysis were done in our laboratory. Both individuals carried normal karyotypes and MTHFR analysis was homozygote wild type allele. Currently, this couple has accepted their conditions. They still want to bear a child although she is at a crucial ageConclusion: Infertility is a challenging and comprehensive problem. As healthcare professionals, we encounter problems not only in diagnosis and management, but also psychological and emotional dilemma. Genetic counseling is needed to solve the problems and avoid patient’s psychological distress.

Investigating the relationship between infertility and depression in women

Depression plays a clear and undeniable role in infertility. In this study, we investigated the status of depression and the levels of fertility hormones in infertile women. One hundred infertile women and 50 fertile controls participated in this study. The serum levels of cortisol, anti-mullerian hormone (AMH), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and inhibin B markers were measured using electro-quantitative luminescence and ELISA techniques. The results showed a significant difference between the case and control groups in terms of the serum levels of LH, FSH, and AMH (P-value˂ 0.05). Depression was significantly associated with AMH in infertile women (P-value = 0.049). AMH and FSH showed a significant difference between the two groups of depressed fertile and depressed infertile women (P-value = 0.005, P-value = 0.042, respectively). In addition, there was a significant difference between the two groups regarding depression status (P-value = 0.003). We concluded that depression might affect AMH, FSH levels, and infertility. As a result, examining all the important and relevant markers of infertility and paying attention to the psychological conditions of women are highly important. Thus, it is possible to prioritize these cases to improve couples' fertility.