Reproduction & fertility最新文献

{"title":"Circulating microRNAs and endometriosis: a comprehensive analysis and validation of identified biomarkers in an Indian population.","authors":"Shivangi Chauhan, Ashutosh Halder, Mona Sharma, Jai Bhagwan Sharma, Deepak Pandey, Neeraj Kumar","doi":"10.1530/RAF-25-0019","DOIUrl":"10.1530/RAF-25-0019","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Graphical abstract: </strong></p><p><strong>Abstract: </strong>Endometriosis is a prevalent condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain and infertility. Diagnosing endometriosis typically requires invasive procedures such as laparoscopy. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as promising noninvasive biomarkers for various diseases, including endometriosis. However, studies have shown inconsistent miRNA expression patterns across populations. This study aims to validate circulating miRNAs as biomarkers for endometriosis in Indian women, addressing the limited validation data available for this population. This comprehensive review identified nine circulating miRNAs based on reproducibility and consistent expression patterns. Women with advanced-stage endometriosis (n = 12) and controls (n = 11) were recruited. Plasma samples were collected based on clinical symptoms, CA-125 levels, ultrasound, MRI findings, and laparoscopic confirmation. miRNA expression was quantified using qRT-PCR, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to assess diagnostic potential. Nine miRNAs (miR-451a, let-7b, miR-150-5p, miR-17-5p, miR-3613-5p, miR-20a-5p, miR-342-3p, miR-125b-5p, and miR-21-5p) were analyzed. Among them, miR-451a and miR-20a-5p exhibited significantly lower expression in endometriosis patients (n = 12) compared to controls (n = 11). ROC analysis demonstrated promising diagnostic potential for these miRNAs. miR-451a showed distinct trends compared to previous studies, while miR-20a-5p was consistent with earlier research. Although encouraging, these findings are based on a limited sample size. Larger multicenter studies across diverse populations using reliable reference genes are needed to fully assess the diagnostic value of these miRNAs as biomarkers for endometriosis.</p><p><strong>Lay summary: </strong>Endometriosis is a common condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain and infertility. Diagnosing it usually requires invasive procedures such as laparoscopy. We focused on microRNAs (miRNAs), small molecules in plasma that could offer a noninvasive way to diagnose endometriosis. After reviewing 45 research articles, we identified 102 miRNAs that were elevated and 197 that were reduced in endometriosis patients. From these, we selected nine promising miRNAs for validation in the Indian population. We collected blood samples from 12 women with endometriosis and 11 healthy controls. Our analysis showed significant differences in miRNA expression, with miR-451a and miR-20a-5p showing strong potential to distinguish between endometriosis patients and healthy individuals. These findings suggest that miRNAs could improve the diagnosis of endometriosis in a less invasive manner. In conclusion, our research highlights the potential of miRNAs in advancing endometriosis diagnosis and management.</p>","PeriodicalId":101312,"journal":{"name":"Reproduction & fertility","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.4,"publicationDate":"2025-10-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145202584","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Association Of Infertility Treatments and Incidence of Stroke Among Women - A Systematic Review.","authors":"Asha Vijay, Vaishali Dagar, Priyanka Rani, Anitha A Manoj, Murali Mohan Reddy Gopireddy, Ajay Krishan Adusumilli","doi":"10.1530/RAF-24-0120","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1530/RAF-24-0120","url":null,"abstract":"&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Abstract: &lt;/strong&gt;Infertility affects a significant proportion of the global population, leading to an increased demand for infertility treatments among women. There are concerns about the potential association between infertility treatment and stroke. However, this potential association remains poorly understood. The study aimed to address this evidence gap by comprehensively examining the available evidence on the incidence of stroke among women who underwent infertility treatments. The study included retrospective and prospective cohort studies on women who had a history of infertility treatments and assessed for cerebrovascular accident or stroke. The primary outcome was incidence of any type of stroke. We have searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Web of science and CINAHL databases using a structured search strategy. Out of 1076 identified studies, six were included in qualitative synthesis, with pooled sample size of 406,438 women. Meta-analysis could not be performed due to significant heterogeneity across the studies. The reported incidence of any stroke varied from 16 to 437 per 100,000 person-years. The associations between ART treatments and stroke have been reported with HR ranging from 0.82 (0.68-0.99) to 1.66 (1.17-2.35). The evidence on the association between infertility treatment and stroke is still emerging, hampering definitive conclusions regarding the strength of associations due to limited number of studies. Key questions remain unanswered regarding postpartum stroke, overall stroke incidence among infertile women, and the specific factors contributing to stroke risk. Future research should focus on prospective studies to elucidate these associations, guiding clinical practice and patient care effectively.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Lay summary: &lt;/strong&gt;Infertility affects many people worldwide, leading more women to seek medical treatments to help them conceive. As these treatments become more common, there have been questions about whether they might increase the risk of stroke. We reviewed all available research studies that looked at stroke occurrence in women who had received infertility treatments. After searching through medical research databases, we found six relevant studies that together included over 400,000 women. On observations 100,000 women per year, the number of stroke cases has shown wide variation, ranging from as low as 16 to as high as 437. Some studies suggest that fertility treatments (ART) may slightly raise the risk of stroke, while one study found a small decrease in risk. However, these studies were quite different from each other in terms of who they studied and how they measured outcomes, making it difficult to draw firm conclusions. Important questions still need to be answered, such as whether infertile women have a higher stroke risk overall, whether there's an increased risk right after giving birth, and what specific factors might contribute to stroke risk. More research, particularly studies","PeriodicalId":101312,"journal":{"name":"Reproduction & fertility","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.4,"publicationDate":"2025-10-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145294928","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"DTPA disrupts development of preantral ovarian follicles in vitro.","authors":"James M Hester, Francisco J Diaz","doi":"10.1530/RAF-24-0125","DOIUrl":"10.1530/RAF-24-0125","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Abstract: </strong>Dietary zinc deficiency disrupts fertility in vivo by impairing oocyte and embryo development near ovulation. Acute treatment of newborn ovaries with a strong intracellular chelator (TPEN), which preferentially binds zinc, disrupts follicular development. However, the chronic effects of transition metal chelation on preantral follicle development are not known. In this study, the effect of the extracellular transition metal chelator, diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA), was used to examine more prolonged effects on preantral follicle development. Preantral granulosa cell-oocyte complexes from 14-day-old mice were cultured under control, chelated (DTPA), or rescue (DTPA + ZnSO4) conditions for up to 10 days. Preantral follicles cultured in DTPA alone showed impaired growth, disrupted nucleolar morphology, and impaired meiotic progression. The granulosa cells in DTPA-treated follicles underwent apoptosis at a higher rate than controls, had fewer physical connections to the oocyte, and reduced activation of pSMAD2 signaling. Moreover, Lhcgr and Ar transcripts were higher in cumulus cells, and Figla was lower in oocytes from DTPA-treated follicles. These data support a role for transition metals in general, and zinc in particular, in proper development of preantral ovarian follicles. The loss of somatic support cells explains some or all of the growth and developmental deficits seen in the DTPA-treated oocytes. DTPA preferentially binds zinc. Therefore, these results support growing evidence that a proper supply of transition metals, including zinc, is essential for optimal ovarian function.</p><p><strong>Lay summary: </strong>The roles the mineral zinc plays in the ovary are not yet clear. The present study used follicles from mouse ovaries that were grown in the lab for up to 10 days. Follicles are round structures that contain a large egg cell at the center, surrounded by smaller cells called granulosa cells. Follicles were either grown with adequate zinc or insufficient zinc levels. The findings show that follicles require sufficient zinc to form connections between the egg and granulosa cells, which are essential for growth of both the egg and the granulosa cells. When there is insufficient zinc, loss of these connections leads to more granulosa cells dying and smaller follicles. These results show that zinc is important for growth of ovarian follicles, which could be important for treating infertility by supplying adequate levels of zinc in the diet.</p>","PeriodicalId":101312,"journal":{"name":"Reproduction & fertility","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.4,"publicationDate":"2025-10-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12523225/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145202579","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Cost-optimized placenta-targeted nanoparticle for localized immune cloaking in recurrent pregnancy loss.","authors":"Mohsen Dashti, Arvin Amir, Mehdi Yousefi","doi":"10.1530/RAF-25-0077","DOIUrl":"10.1530/RAF-25-0077","url":null,"abstract":"&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Abstract: &lt;/strong&gt;Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is defined as the occurrence of two or more consecutive miscarriages and affects approximately 1-2% of reproductive-aged couples. Immune-mediated factors at the maternal-fetal interface are increasingly recognized as significant contributors to otherwise unexplained RPL. Current therapeutic approaches largely rely on systemic immunosuppression, which demonstrates limited efficacy and imposes substantial maternal risks. Here, we propose a drug-free, placenta-targeted nanoparticle (NP) system for localized immune cloaking utilizing well-characterized, cost-effective materials. The core design consists of a biodegradable PLGA matrix, a lipid-polyethylene glycol (PEG) stealth layer, superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) for imaging, and placental-homing peptides for targeted delivery. The mechanisms of immune cloaking may include PEG stealth, red blood cell membrane coating, or immunomodulatory ligands to induce site-specific immune tolerance while avoiding the adverse effects associated with systemic immunosuppression. We discuss material accessibility, feasibility of large-scale manufacture, and the preclinical evidence base to be developed. Finally, we outline regulatory pathways and prospective clinical trial designs. This localized NP-based treatment may offer a significant reduction in RPL incidence by promoting targeted maternal-fetal immune tolerance while addressing the safety and cost limitations inherent to current broad-spectrum immunotherapies.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Lay summary: &lt;/strong&gt;Miscarriage is heartbreaking and a growing issue that many families deal with. For some women, it occurs repeatedly for no apparent reason. One of the major causes is thought to be an overreactive immune response, in which the immune system of the mother unintentionally targets the growing fetus. Currently, medications that suppress the entire immune system, also known as immunosuppressive treatments, are occasionally administered to women who have experienced repeated miscarriage. These therapies may have systemic effects on the whole body, can be costly, and put the mother at higher risk of developing serious adverse events. Our study proposes a new, secure option. We recommend using nanoparticles, tiny particles specifically engineered to reach the placenta, and give details regarding the design, safety and efficacy protocols, and the road map to make this product commercially available. Once in place, the nanoparticles can help establish a secure environment where the fetus can grow safely by shielding the fetus from the mothers' immune system. Nanoparticles are a growing treatment option in many fields and can also be used in reproductive medicine to help families who have suffered recurrent miscarriages. In addition, this could decrease the burden of miscarriage on both families and the health care system by improving pregnancy outcomes and reducing the need for dangerous medication","PeriodicalId":101312,"journal":{"name":"Reproduction & fertility","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.4,"publicationDate":"2025-10-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145202600","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Reduced vagal tone in women with adenomyosis.","authors":"Weiwei Zeng, Tingting Zhang, Fan Wu, Sun-Wei Guo","doi":"10.1530/RAF-25-0039","DOIUrl":"10.1530/RAF-25-0039","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Abstract: </strong>Adenomyosis is an estrogen-dependent disease featuring chronic inflammation. This study was undertaken to investigate whether vagal tone is reduced in patients with adenomyosis compared with healthy women. We recruited 75 patients with adenomyosis, as diagnosed by a combination of ultrasound and gynecological examination, and 75 healthy women without adenomyosis, endometriosis, or other uterine disorders per ultrasound examination. All recruited subjects received an electrocardiogram evaluation, and their heart rate variability was assessed. In addition, lesional stiffness for patients with adenomyosis and myometrial stiffness for healthy controls were measured by ultrasound elastography. Severity of dysmenorrhea and the amount of menstrual blood loss were also evaluated. Patients with adenomyosis exhibited statistically significant sympatho-vagal imbalance, featuring domination of the sympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system over the parasympathetic branch, as evidenced by reduced vagal tone and increased sympathetic activity. In addition, lesional stiffness, a proxy for the extent of lesional fibrosis, was found to be negatively associated with vagal tone. Patients with adenomyosis have reduced vagal tone. In addition, reduced vagal tone is likely attributable to increased lesional stiffness, a proxy for the extent of lesional fibrosis, which correlated with the severity of dysmenorrhea and the amount of menstrual blood loss. This raises the prospect of employing vagus nerve stimulation as a possible therapeutics approach. Future human studies are needed to determine whether vagus nerve stimulation can have any therapeutic effects.</p><p><strong>Lay summary: </strong>Adenomyosis is a condition in which the inner lining of the uterus is found in the muscular wall of the uterus (called the myometrium). It is a common gynecological disease affecting mostly women of reproductive age. We found that patients with adenomyosis exhibited significant imbalance between the 'flight-or-fight' system and the 'rest-and-digest' system (sympatho-vagal imbalance), featuring reduced vagal tone (dampened calm-down system) and increased sympathetic activity (more anxiety and restlessness). In addition, we found that the stiffness of adenomyotic lesions, which can be viewed as a proxy for the 'age' of the lesions, was negatively associated with vagal tone. This reduced vagal tone may suggest that perhaps some vagal stimulating procedures, which are safe and non-invasive, can be used to boost vagal tone to achieve therapeutic purposes.</p>","PeriodicalId":101312,"journal":{"name":"Reproduction & fertility","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.4,"publicationDate":"2025-10-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12524039/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145202590","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Relationship between the composition of vaginal bacterial populations and the reproductive stage in captive collared peccaries.","authors":"Yasmim C S Cavalcante, Caio S Santos, Lilian L Dantas, Romário P Santos, Yuri G Matos, Ana G Pereira, Karolina R F Beraldo, Maria A Juliano, Felipe Z Brandão, Francisco M C Feijó, Moacir Franco de Oliveira, Rinaldo A Mota, Pierre Comizzoli, Alexandre R Silva","doi":"10.1530/RAF-25-0072","DOIUrl":"10.1530/RAF-25-0072","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Abstract: </strong>The objective of the study was to i) characterize the aerobic and microaerophilic vaginal microbiota of collared peccaries (Pecari tajacu) across reproductive stages and ii) correlate microbiota findings with progesterone levels and vaginal cytology at each reproductive stage. Samples were collected for progesterone assessment (serum concentration), vaginal cytology, and microbial analysis (after isolation followed by MALDI-TOF identification) from four young pubescent, four non-pregnant, and three pregnant females. Microbial composition varied according to the reproductive stage: young pubescent females predominantly harbored Alcaligenes faecalis (Proteobacteria; 33.3%), non-pregnant females primarily hosted Bacillus badius and Staphylococcus microti (Firmicutes; 85.7%), and pregnant females had more Bacillus cereus and Mammaliicoccus sciuri (Firmicutes; 54.5%). No significant correlation (P > 0.05) was found between microbial proportions and progesterone levels or vaginal cytology. Although no differences were detected in the proportions of different vaginal bacterial populations, there was great qualitative diversity of species of microorganisms among females at different reproductive stages. While the small sample size may have limited our ability to detect more subtle quantitative differences, these findings provide foundational insights into the reproductive microbiota of collared peccaries, with potential implications for their conservation and management.</p><p><strong>Lay summary: </strong>Despite the importance of reproductive microbiomes in animal conservation, there is still a lack of knowledge in many wild species. The present study characterized for the first time the composition of the aerobic and microaerophilic microbiota (bacteria that can survive in the presence of oxygen or in low-oxygen conditions, respectively) of the vaginal tract from collared peccaries (pig-like mammals from Central and South America commonly known as musk hogs) at different reproductive stages. Although no differences were detected in the proportions of different vaginal bacterial populations, there was great qualitative diversity of species of microorganisms among females at different reproductive stages. These findings provide foundational insights into the reproductive microbiota of collared peccaries, with potential implications for their conservation and management.</p>","PeriodicalId":101312,"journal":{"name":"Reproduction & fertility","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.4,"publicationDate":"2025-10-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12524037/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145202698","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Development of a rabbit model of uterine rupture after caesarean section, histological, biomechanical and polarimetric analysis of the uterine tissue.","authors":"Elodie Debras, Constance Maudot, Jean-Marc Allain, Angelo Pierangelo, Aymeric Courilleau, Julie Riviere, Michèle Dahirel, Christophe Richard, Valérie Gelin, Gwendoline Morin, Perrine Goussault Capmas, Pascale Chavatte-Palmer","doi":"10.1530/RAF-25-0018","DOIUrl":"10.1530/RAF-25-0018","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Abstract: </strong>Uterine rupture is a major complication of caesarean section (CS) associated with high fetal and maternal morbidity. The objective is to develop an in vivo model of uterine healing and rupture after CS in order to analyse histological phenomena controlling scarring tissue development and potential causes of defects. Eighteen pregnant primiparous female rabbits were bred naturally. At caesarean, after 28 days of gestation, foetuses were either extracted through a longitudinal incision in one of the uterine horns ('CS horn') or via a short incision at the tip of the contralateral horn ('control horn'). The uterine horns were sutured in a single layer, all by the same surgeon. They were mated again 14 days later and euthanised at G28. Genital tracts were collected for histological, biomechanical and polarimetric analyses. Macroscopically, 2/18 presented a dehiscence and 1/18 a spontaneous rupture. The mean thickness of the scarred area was significantly lower, 0.9 mm (0.7-1.4), than the non-scarred area on CS horns 2.2 (1.6-2.3) or control horns 2 (1.5-2.3) (P < 0.0001). The scar zone was statistically more fibrous (P < 0.0001), containing fewer vessels (P = 0.03), oestrogen receptors (P < 0.001) and progesterone receptors (P < 0.0001). After balloon inflation, rupture occurred in the scar zone in 8 out of 17 cases (47%). Polarimetry revealed that the scar zone was statistically inhomogeneous (73%). Multifactorial analysis identified groups with poor uterine healing and less resistance to rupture (balloon inflation), mostly in cases of thin myometrium in the scar, and a group with strong resistance to rupture and correct healing characteristics.</p><p><strong>Lay summary: </strong>CS rates are rising across the world. When a CS is carried out, it can lead to scarring on the uterus that can affect its resistance to pressure. During the next pregnancy, the uterus can tear, increasing risks to the mother and baby. We carried out CSs in rabbits, allowing us to analyse the scar on the uterus, the healing and tissue resistance. The scarred part of the uterus was statistically thinner, more fibrous and contained fewer vessels and hormone receptors than the area without scarring. Under similar conditions, poor healing was observed in some animals, reducing resistance in following pregnancies. These results suggest that individual and genetic factors have an effect on healing after a CS. This study may improve our knowledge and management of care for patients who have a CS in order to reduce complications.</p><p><strong>Graphical abstract: </strong></p>","PeriodicalId":101312,"journal":{"name":"Reproduction & fertility","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.4,"publicationDate":"2025-10-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145187976","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Sperm Preparation Techniques Affect Biological Parameters, Fertility Indices, and DNA Fragmentation in Patients with Oligo-Astheno-Teratozoospermia.","authors":"Banafsheh Heidari, Amin Nosrati, Mostafa Pournourali, Farhad Seif, Nazanin Akbari, Abolfazl Shirazi","doi":"10.1530/RAF-25-0012","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1530/RAF-25-0012","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Abstract: </strong>In normozoospermia, the Albumin Gradient Filtration (AGF) and swim-up processing techniques are used to isolate spermatozoa with the highest biological parameters and specific sperm fertility indices (SSFI). In contrast, the highest number of sperms with the best motility rate, velocity, and SSFI, and the lowest DNA damage and nuclear fragmentation are isolated using the Density Gradient Centrifugation (DGC) preparation technique in Oligo-Astheno-Teratozoospermia (OAT) patients. The study aimed to evaluate the effect of DGC, AGF-1, AGF-2, and swim-up preparation techniques on biological parameters, including SSFI, chromatin integrity, and DNA fragmentation in patients with OAT and normozoospermia. One hundred men with normozoospermia and OAT participated in the study. Biological parameters (concentration, velocity, total motility, and normal morphology), SSFI [Progressively Motile Sperm Concentration-grade a (PMSCa), Progressively Motile Sperm Concentration-grade b (PMSCb), and Sperm Motility Index (SMI), Functional Sperm Concentration (FSC), Motile Sperm Concentration (MSC)], chromatin integrity, and DNA fragmentation were assessed before and after each processing methods using SQA-V Gold sperm analyzer, specific staining, TUNEL, and COMET assays. In OAT patients, the highest number of sperm with the best velocity, motility, and SSFI was demonstrated in the DGC method. However, the AGF-2 technique was the most efficient method in normozoospermic patients. Sperm DNA damage significantly decreased following preparation with DGC, AGF-2, and swim-up techniques. Overall, the findings highlight that DGC is the most beneficial method for OAT patients, whereas AGF-2 and swim-up techniques are more suitable for normozoospermic individuals. These comparisons emphasize the need to tailor techniques according to patient-specific sperm profiles.</p><p><strong>Lay summary: </strong>This study investigated how different laboratory methods for preparing sperm would help improve fertility treatment outcomes for men with fertility problems. We assessed four commonly used techniques to see how well they could choose the healthiest sperm from 100 men, both with and without fertility issues. We aimed to improve sperm quality by selecting those that move faster, have fewer abnormalities, and contain less damaged DNA. We revealed that men with poor sperm quality benefited most from a method that separates sperm based on how heavy they are. In contrast, men with normal sperm quality responded better to a different technique that uses a protein-based filter. All the methods tested were helpful in reducing sperm DNA damage, but two of them were more effective in preserving sperm health based on men's conditions. Our findings suggest that using the right sperm preparation method for each individual can increase the chances of success in fertility treatments.</p>","PeriodicalId":101312,"journal":{"name":"Reproduction & fertility","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.4,"publicationDate":"2025-10-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145277092","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Advances in Human Oocyte In Vitro Maturation: Current Status and Future Perspectives --- a Narrative Review.","authors":"Meiju Liu, Jie Cui, Hsun-Ming Chang, Jing Liu, Peter C K Leung","doi":"10.1530/RAF-25-0092","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1530/RAF-25-0092","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Abstract: </strong>Oocyte in vitro maturation (IVM) is an evolving component of assisted reproductive technology (ART) that offers a less invasive and cost-effective alternative to conventional controlled ovarian stimulation. It is particularly beneficial for patients at risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and individuals requiring urgent fertility preservation. Despite these advantages, clinical uptake has remained limited owing to concerns about the developmental competence and quality of IVM-derived oocytes. To address this, we conducted a comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science for articles published between January 2000 and June 2025, using combinations of keywords related to IVM, oocyte maturation, culture protocols, oocyte quality, and clinical outcomes. Recent progress in the field has led to the development of biphasic culture systems, pre-IVM priming strategies, and the incorporation of regulatory factors such as C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) and oocyte-secreted factors (OSFs), all of which have contributed to improved oocyte maturation and embryo development. Nonetheless, variability in outcomes persists due to differences in patient selection, stimulation protocols, and laboratory practice. Continued optimisation of IVM culture systems and a deeper understanding of oocyte maturation mechanisms will be essential for enhancing clinical efficacy. Future research should prioritise standardisation, patient-tailored protocols, and systematic long-term outcome data to support wider adoption of IVM. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances and ongoing challenges in human oocyte IVM, offering perspectives on future directions for clinical translation and improved ART outcomes.</p><p><strong>Lay summary: </strong>In vitro maturation (IVM) is a fertility treatment that allows immature eggs to mature in the laboratory rather than within the body. This approach can be safer, simpler, and more affordable than traditional IVF, especially for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), those at risk of ovarian hyperstimulation, or those who need to preserve their fertility quickly, such as cancer patients. Although IVM holds great promise, it is not yet widely used because its success rates are not as high as those of conventional methods. This review looks at the latest scientific progress to improve IVM, including better laboratory techniques, the use of natural hormones and growth factors, and new ways to support egg development outside the body. These advancements have helped improve the quality of eggs and embryos, but challenges remain. Differences in patient types, medications used, and lab practices can affect how well IVM works. More research is needed to make IVM more consistent and effective so it can become a routine fertility option for a broader population.</p>","PeriodicalId":101312,"journal":{"name":"Reproduction & fertility","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.4,"publicationDate":"2025-10-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145254239","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Cytokine supplementation influences bovine embryo transcriptome during the preimplantation period.","authors":"Katy S McDonald, Randall S Prather, M Sofia Ortega","doi":"10.1530/RAF-25-0011","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1530/RAF-25-0011","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Abstract: </strong>The central goal of the following studies was to understand how FGF2, LIF, and IGF1, a cocktail called \"FLI,\" influence bovine embryo development by the degree of transcriptomic variation throughout preimplantation development. All embryos were produced in vitro with or without FLI supplementation at the beginning of culture. For each treatment, embryos were collected at the 4-6 cell, 9-16 cell, morula, or blastocyst stages and RNA was isolated and sequenced at a depth of 50 million reads per sample. In the FLI group, at the 9-16 cell stage, there were 7 upregulated and 6 downregulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs). At the morula stage, of the 1856 DEGs, 580 were upregulated in FLI. Gene ontology analysis showed increased MAPK signaling, TGF-beta signaling, and Hippo signaling, which all help regulate cell adhesion, lineage commitment, and growth regulation in the developing embryo. In FLI blastocyst stage embryo, 199 upregulated and 545 downregulated DEGs revealed an increase in processes associated with interferon-gamma production and cell differentiation. Overall, FLI modulates many of the regulatory pathways in the developing embryo to drive increased cell survival, cell integrity, and overall embryo development.</p><p><strong>Lay summary: </strong>This study investigated whether adding three supportive proteins-FGF2, LIF, and IGF1 (together called FLI)-could improve the development of cow embryos grown in vitro. In cattle breeding, embryos are often produced outside the body to enhance fertility and support genetic selection. However, many embryos fail to develop properly under laboratory conditions. To address this, researchers tested whether FLI could create a more favorable environment for early embryo growth. Although embryos grown with and without FLI appeared similar under the microscope, gene expression analysis revealed important differences. Embryos exposed to FLI showed signs of improved cell survival, healthier growth, and reduced stress. These molecular changes suggest that FLI may help embryos become more resilient to key procedures such as freezing and transfer. The findings support the use of FLI as a culture supplement to improve the efficiency and success of in vitro embryo production systems used in livestock reproductive biotechnologies.</p>","PeriodicalId":101312,"journal":{"name":"Reproduction & fertility","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.4,"publicationDate":"2025-10-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145254224","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}