{"title":"Evaluation of the association of polymorphisms of the vitamin D receptor gene (VDR) with idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss among women in Kazakhstan","authors":"Akbayan Turesheva","doi":"10.1186/s43043-024-00197-3","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1186/s43043-024-00197-3","url":null,"abstract":"There is considerable global discourse on the impact of insufficient vitamin D levels, known for their immunosuppressive properties, on recurrent pregnancy loss. Vitamin D deficiency affects 35% to 80% of the population. Despite advancements in molecular genetics, the study of vitamin D receptor gene (VDR) polymorphisms remains crucial. This study examined the correlation between VDR polymorphisms and idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss. A narrative literature review with a meta-analysis of 85 sources from databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus was conducted, focusing on studies from 2020 to 2022. The analysis included studies on vitamin D and miscarriage, adhering to ICD-10 criteria, and VDR gene allele analysis through PCR-RFLP. A comprehensive narrative analysis of the available scientific literature verified the link between comorbidities and vitamin D deficiencies, which can lead to recurrent pregnancy loss by hindering adaptive mechanisms and exacerbating complications. The most researched VDR gene polymorphisms, including FokI (rs2228570), BsmI (rs1544410), ApaI (rs7975232), TaqI (rs731236), and Cdx2, are linked to various health issues, particularly reproductive outcomes. The FokI (rs2228570) polymorphism in the VDR gene is a critical predictor of vitamin D levels, influencing pregnancy success. These findings are essential for assessing the risk of idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss and developing new prevention and treatment approaches.","PeriodicalId":18532,"journal":{"name":"Middle East Fertility Society Journal","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2024-07-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141568753","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}
Solmaz Gul Sajjad, Aarush Mohammad Sajjad, Michael Fakih, Muhammad Ahsan Akhtar, Yasmin Sajjad
{"title":"Impact of SARS-CoV-2 on male reproductive system and fertility","authors":"Solmaz Gul Sajjad, Aarush Mohammad Sajjad, Michael Fakih, Muhammad Ahsan Akhtar, Yasmin Sajjad","doi":"10.1186/s43043-024-00194-6","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1186/s43043-024-00194-6","url":null,"abstract":"Evaluate the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on male fertility. Comprehensive analysis of studies exploring virus presence, inflammation, and altered semen parameters. While some studies report absence of SARS-CoV-2 in semen, others highlight testicular injury, inflammation, and potential viral orchitis. Scrotal discomfort and altered sperm parameters indicate reproductive implications. SARS-CoV-2 may pose significant challenges to male fertility, necessitating further research for a comprehensive understanding of its long-term effects. Limitations include varied testing methods and sample sizes, emphasizing the need for confirmation and detailed post-COVID examinations.","PeriodicalId":18532,"journal":{"name":"Middle East Fertility Society Journal","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2024-07-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141568745","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}
Xianju Huang, Xinle Lu, Xue Jiang, Ludan Chao, Xiao Wang
{"title":"The effect of transferring a low-quality embryo along with a high-quality embryo on the pregnancy outcome","authors":"Xianju Huang, Xinle Lu, Xue Jiang, Ludan Chao, Xiao Wang","doi":"10.1186/s43043-024-00195-5","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1186/s43043-024-00195-5","url":null,"abstract":"Previous evidence suggests that low-quality embryos may send negative signals to the endometrium and affect the receptivity of the endometrium. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of transferring an additional low-quality embryo with a high-quality embryo on the pregnancy outcome. A total of 1506 fresh embryo transfer cycles between January 2018 and June 2020 were included. The patients were separated into two groups: a single embryo transfer group (SET, patients receiving a single high-quality embryo) and a double embryo transfer group (DET, patients receiving a high-quality embryo and a low-quality embryo). Main outcome measures including multiple pregnancy rate and live birth rate were discussed. Overall, in the primary analysis, patients who receive an additional low-quality embryo improved the live birth by 8.7% and multiple pregnancy rate by 10.0%. In women aged less than 35 years, compared with SET, DET increased the birth rate by 6.0% but resulted in a 13.5% increase in multiples. Women of 35 years above, adding a low-quality embryo increased the live birth rate by only 2.2% but increased multiples by 14.7%. In patients with one cycle of ET, the same results were obtained. In patients with multiple cycles of ET and adding a low-quality embryo, the live birth rate was similar to SET but with a 14.7% increase in multiples. Compared to DET, we prefer to transfer a high-quality embryo. Nevertheless, in women 35 years or older or in patients with multiple cycles of embryo transfer, adding a low-quality embryo did not significantly improve live birth but increased the multiple rate.","PeriodicalId":18532,"journal":{"name":"Middle East Fertility Society Journal","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2024-07-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141523318","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":"Predictive strategies for oocyte maturation in IVF cycles: from single indicators to integrated models","authors":"Li-Na He, Qing Xu, Jie Lin, Yi Liu, Wei Chen","doi":"10.1186/s43043-024-00193-7","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1186/s43043-024-00193-7","url":null,"abstract":"Accurate prediction of oocyte maturation is a critical determinant of success in in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) procedures. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the various predictive approaches employed to assess oocyte maturity, including single indicators, combined indicators, and predictive models. Factors such as ovarian reserve, patient characteristics, and controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) strategies can significantly influence oocyte maturation rates. Single indicators, including hormone levels, ultrasound parameters, and clinical parameters, have been extensively studied. However, their predictive power may be limited when used in isolation. Combined indicators, integrating multiple parameters, have demonstrated improved predictive performance compared to single indicators. Additionally, predictive models and algorithms, such as machine learning and deep learning models, have emerged as promising tools for assessing oocyte maturity. These models leverage advanced statistical and computational methods to analyze complex datasets and identify patterns that can predict oocyte maturation rates with potentially higher accuracy. Despite these advancements, several gaps and limitations persist, including limited generalizability, lack of standardization, insufficient external validation, and the need to incorporate patient-specific factors and emerging technologies. The review highlights potential areas for further research, such as multicenter collaborative studies, integration of advanced omics technologies, development of personalized prediction models, and investigation of trigger time optimization strategies. Recommendations for clinical practice include utilizing a combination of indicators, adopting validated predictive models, tailoring approaches based on individual patient characteristics, continuous monitoring and adjustment, and fostering multidisciplinary collaboration. Accurate prediction of oocyte maturation holds profound implications for improving the success rates of IVF-ET and enhancing the chances of achieving a healthy pregnancy. Continued research, innovative approaches, and the implementation of evidence-based practices are essential to optimize assisted reproductive outcomes.","PeriodicalId":18532,"journal":{"name":"Middle East Fertility Society Journal","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2024-06-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141529897","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}
Hatem Abo Elftooh Awaga, Mahmoud Ahmad Abdel-Mawjud, Mohammed Samir Ismail, Salah Roshdy Ahmed
{"title":"Clinical outcomes of post-placental insertion of Copper T380A and Multiload 375 contraceptive devices during cesarean section: a randomized clinical trial","authors":"Hatem Abo Elftooh Awaga, Mahmoud Ahmad Abdel-Mawjud, Mohammed Samir Ismail, Salah Roshdy Ahmed","doi":"10.1186/s43043-024-00192-8","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1186/s43043-024-00192-8","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":18532,"journal":{"name":"Middle East Fertility Society Journal","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2024-06-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141336904","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}
Shehnaz Sultana, B. Divya Bhanu, Venkateshwari Ananthapur
{"title":"Identification of key functional pathways: arginine biosynthesis and IL-17 signalling in placental decidua of unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss through RNA sequencing—a case series","authors":"Shehnaz Sultana, B. Divya Bhanu, Venkateshwari Ananthapur","doi":"10.1186/s43043-024-00190-w","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1186/s43043-024-00190-w","url":null,"abstract":"Three or more consecutive pregnancy losses before the 20th week of gestation constitute recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), and about half of these cases are still unsolved despite routine screening tests. The purpose of the current study was to identify the RPL-related placental decidual differential gene expression and to gain new knowledge about the biological mechanisms underlying RPL. In the current work, we used RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) technology to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in placental decidua from patients of unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). To conduct RNA-seq, two healthy unwanted medically terminated pregnancies (MTPs) and four RPL patients were enlisted. A total number of 96 significant differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained which includes 73 up- and 23 downregulated genes between the RPL and MTP groups. Histocompatibility genes were significantly upregulated in the RPL. Interleukin 6 (IL-6), matrix metalloproteinase-10 (MMP10), and protein phosphatase 1 regulatory inhibitor subunit 11 (PPP1R11) genes which were significantly upregulated in RPL were further validated in an extended sample size. The validation results were consistent with the sequencing results. To find potential biological pathways connected to RPL, the Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis were carried out. The study indicates that arginine biosynthesis is significantly downregulated, while IL-17 signalling pathway is significantly upregulated in RPL. In conclusion, the findings of the present study indicate involvement of arginine biosynthesis, immune regulatory pathways, and histocompatibility genes in the pathogenesis of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). However, to validate these observations, further investigations with a larger sample size are warranted.","PeriodicalId":18532,"journal":{"name":"Middle East Fertility Society Journal","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2024-06-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141257558","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}
Anastasia A. Salame, Mokhamad J. Zhaffal, Braulio Peramo
{"title":"Early pregnancy loss in IVF: a literature review","authors":"Anastasia A. Salame, Mokhamad J. Zhaffal, Braulio Peramo","doi":"10.1186/s43043-024-00191-9","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1186/s43043-024-00191-9","url":null,"abstract":"Human reproduction is an imperfect process despite years of evolution. It is estimated that only 30% of conceived pregnancies end up with a live birth (Hum Reprod Update 8:333-343, 2002). Although the IVF cycle clinical pregnancy rate is estimated to be above 60%, the actual live birth rate is still well below 50% (Reprod Biomed Online 40:201-206, 2004). Errors of implantation, embryonic genetic mutations, structural as well as chromosomal abnormalities, endometrial aberrances as well as abnormal sites of implantation are all conditions that could be associated with a positive pregnancy test yet a non-viable pregnancy outcome. In this extensive literature review, we detailed the different risk factors hindering a successful reproductive outcome post-IVF in terms of early pregnancy loss. We also reviewed the different treatment modalities available to improve the prognosis of such patients.","PeriodicalId":18532,"journal":{"name":"Middle East Fertility Society Journal","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2024-05-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141193968","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}
Mahmoud Zakherah, Ahmed A. Mohamed, Abdulrahman M. Rageh, Mahmoud Abdel-aleem
{"title":"Navigating uterine niche 360 degree: a narrative review","authors":"Mahmoud Zakherah, Ahmed A. Mohamed, Abdulrahman M. Rageh, Mahmoud Abdel-aleem","doi":"10.1186/s43043-024-00185-7","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1186/s43043-024-00185-7","url":null,"abstract":"The increasing prevalence of cesarean section (CS) deliveries globally has sparked apprehension regarding potential long-term complications, notably the emergence of uterine niches. CS results in a scar that in certain patients, inadequate healing of that scar results in the development of a uterine niche. While most small niches show no symptoms, large cesarean scar niches in nonpregnant women can give rise to cesarean scar disorder syndrome. This syndrome is characterized by abnormal uterine bleeding, dysmenorrhea, and secondary infertility. In pregnant women, the presence of substantial niches may be linked to potentially life-threatening complications, including cesarean scar dehiscence, uterine rupture, placenta accreta spectrum disorders, placenta previa, and cesarean scar ectopic pregnancy. Given the potential dangers associated with uterine niche occurrence, numerous studies in recent years have delved into the concept of cesarean scar niche, exploring its risk factors, diagnostic approaches, and treatment options. Various diagnostic modalities, such as two- or three-dimensional transvaginal ultrasonography, two- and three-dimensional sono-hysterography, hysterosalpingography, hysteroscopy, or magnetic resonance imaging, can be employed to detect uterine niches. However, none of these diagnostic methods is universally accepted as the “gold standard,” and there remains a lack of unequivocal guidelines on certain aspects related to the diagnosis of cesarean scar niche. These niches, characterized by hypoechoic regions within the myometrium at the site of a previous CS scar, pose diagnostic complexities and provoke inquiries into their prevalence, factors influencing their development, clinical presentations, and appropriate therapeutic approaches. As CS rates rise, this review aims to understand and address uterine niches and mitigate their impact on maternal health and reproductive outcomes.","PeriodicalId":18532,"journal":{"name":"Middle East Fertility Society Journal","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2024-05-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141193992","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":"Circular RNA regulates male spermatogenesis: a narrative review","authors":"Li-fan Peng, Hang Yu","doi":"10.1186/s43043-024-00186-6","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1186/s43043-024-00186-6","url":null,"abstract":"Spermatogenesis was crucial for adult male animals to achieve reproductive function, and this complex physiological process required timely and moderate expression of related genes. A large number of epigenetic regulatory factors were involved, including cyclic RNA. Circular RNA had various characteristics such as rich expression, evolutionary conservation, cell or tissue specificity, and higher resistance to exonuclease or ribonuclease degradation. It can regulate the expression of parental genes and function as mRNA traps, miRNAs, or proteins in the corpus cavernous; it can also participate in the process of spermatogenesis through RNA-binding proteins, including the formation of reproductive stem cells, sperm formation, seminal plasma composition, and testicular tissue formation.","PeriodicalId":18532,"journal":{"name":"Middle East Fertility Society Journal","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2024-05-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141193714","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}
Maha Katta, Ahmed M. Maged, Asmaa I. Ogila, Wael S. Ragab
{"title":"Impact of treatment interventions of endometriomas prior to in vitro fertilization: a systematic review and meta-analysis","authors":"Maha Katta, Ahmed M. Maged, Asmaa I. Ogila, Wael S. Ragab","doi":"10.1186/s43043-024-00189-3","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1186/s43043-024-00189-3","url":null,"abstract":"Treatment of endometrioma before in vitro fertilization (IVF) is challenging as it may affect ovarian response to induction. A systematic review to search for the available optimal management of ovarian endometrioma before ovulation induction in IVF. Screening of the MEDLINE, Web of Science, EMBASE, Cochrane database, and the clinical trial registration sites, covering the period from their inception up to June 2023 was done by two reviewers independently using the keywords ovarian endometrioma, ovarian endometriosis, endometrioma/surgery, endometrioma/hormonal treatment, randomized controlled trial(s), case-controlled studies, and cohort studies. All types of studies were included. Participants included were women with unilateral or bilateral ovarian endometriomas candidate for IVF/ICSI. We included 18 studies in the review. Three studies were randomized controlled parallel studies, six were prospective cohort, and nine were retrospective cohort studies. Data from all included studies were extracted by two authors (A. M., A. O.) independently. Data extracted included sample size, population characteristics including age, BMI, duration of infertility, ovarian reserve markers, cyst size, and bilaterality and induction protocol used. We found 18 studies. Women with untreated endometrioma had significantly higher numbers of MII oocytes (the mean difference (MD) effect estimate was − 0.53 with [− 1.04, − 0.01] 95% CI and 0.04 P-value), higher number of obtained embryos (MD effect estimate was − 0.25 with [− 0.38, − 0.11] 95%CI and < 0.001 P-value), and required lower doses of gonadotropins for induction (MD effect estimate was 361.14 with [168.13, 5554.15] 95% CI and < 0.001 P-value) compared to those who had undergone surgical management of endometrioma. However, live birth (OR effect estimate was 0.79 with [0.54, 1.18] 95% CI and 0.25 P-value), clinical pregnancy (OR effect estimate was 0.95 with [0.72, 1.26] 95% CI and 0.73 P-value), miscarriage (OR effect estimate was 0.74 with [0.33, 1.63] 95% CI and 0.45 P-value), cancellation rates (OR effect estimate was 1.62 with [0.57, 4.66] 95% CI and 0.37 P-value), and the duration of stimulation (MD effect estimate was 0.19 with [− 0.42, − 0.81] 95% CI and 0.54 P-value) did not show any significant difference between the two groups of women. Hormonal treatment of endometrioma was associated with higher ongoing pregnancy rate (OR effect estimate was 3.39 with [1.83, 6.26] 95% CI and < 0.001 P-value), higher clinical pregnancy rate (OR effect estimate was 3.36 with [2.01, 5.63] 95% CI and < 0.001 P-value), and higher numbers of MII oocytes (MD effect estimate was 2.04 with [0.72, 3.36] 95% CI and 0.003 P-value) when compared to women who did not receive such therapy. These effects were evident in treatment with GnRH agonists, OCPs (oral contraceptive pills), and dienogest, while the miscarriage and cycle cancellation rates did not show these differences. The optimal approach for treating endometrioma prior","PeriodicalId":18532,"journal":{"name":"Middle East Fertility Society Journal","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2024-05-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141172197","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}