Objective: Prokineticin-1 (PROK1) is a recently described protein with a wide range of functions including tissue specific angiogenesis, modulation of inflammatory responses and regulation of haematopoiesis. PROK1 has...Objective: Prokineticin-1 (PROK1) is a recently described protein with a wide range of functions including tissue specific angiogenesis, modulation of inflammatory responses and regulation of haematopoiesis. PROK1 has been found in the steroidogenic organs like ovary, testis, adrenal and specially placenta and they have been found to have a role in development of the olfactory system and GnRH system. The aim was to update the role of PROK1 and PROK2 inhuman reproduction since the review was provided by Maldono-Perez (2007) on the potentials of prokineticins in reproduction. Design: A review of international scientific literature by a search of Pubmed and the authors files was done for citation of articles relevant to prokineticins in reproduction, be it its role in ovary, testis, uterus with special emphasis on implantation, normal pregnancy, in labour, pathophysiological states like tubal pregnancy, pcos, various genital tumours, and cases of isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism with mutations with PROK2/ PROKR2 and studies detailing functional mechanisms. Results: In the normal cycle, PROK1 has been found to have important roles in implantation, regulating several genes like COX-2, IL-8, IL-11, CTGF related to implantation. Initially murine studies revealed a critical role of PROK2 pathway on olfactory bulb morphogenesis and GnRH secretion which was accidentally discovered and since then several studies on mutations in PROK2/PROKR2 showed that they underlie some case of KS in humans. Although in mouse heterozygote state is not associated with clinical phenotype, most of human mutations are heterozygous. Conclusions: Role of PROK-1 in the process of implantation, with a deeper understanding of the process success rates in IVF and ART can be improved, besides understanding the pathophysiology of tubal pregnancy. Further presence in ovarian follicles of PROK1 can be used to plan a strategy for treating pcos. Development of antagonism of PROK’S may be a helpful strategy in treating preterm labour.展开更多
The authors regret to report the following error made in“Spatiotemporal dynamics of neuron differentiation and migration in the developing human spinal cord;52(2025)-101283-1295;Doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgg.2025...The authors regret to report the following error made in“Spatiotemporal dynamics of neuron differentiation and migration in the developing human spinal cord;52(2025)-101283-1295;Doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgg.2025.08.004”.In Tables S1 and S2 in the supplementary materials of this paper,some items were written in Chinese.The corresponding pictures and tables were not uploaded in time.展开更多
Precise formation of complex neural circuits in the spinal cord,achieved through the integration of diverse neuronal populations,is essential for central nervous system function.However,the specialization and migratio...Precise formation of complex neural circuits in the spinal cord,achieved through the integration of diverse neuronal populations,is essential for central nervous system function.However,the specialization and migration of human spinal cord neurons remain poorly understood.In this study,we perform single-cell transcriptome sequencing of human spinal cord from Carnegie Stages(CS)16–21 and mouse spinal cord from embryonic day(E)8.0–11.5,complemented by in situ sequencing of human spinal cord(CS 16–20).Our results reveal the critical role of the precursor state in neuronal differentiation and migration,identifying key transcription factors that regulate these processes across species.Notably,each neuronal lineage expresses unique markers as early as the progenitor stage at the spinal cord midline,and subsequently undergoes a shared transcriptional program during precursor commitment that guides migration.This synchronized migration,validated by spatial transcriptomics,occurs in both dorsal and ventral regions.Our findings offer important insights into the migration patterns and regulatory factors that guide spinal cord neuron subtype specification during embryogenesis.展开更多
Aim: To study the association between seminal oxidative stress and human sperm acrosin activity. Methods: It is a prospective study consisting of 30 infertile men and 12 fertile normozoospermic volunteers. A full hist...Aim: To study the association between seminal oxidative stress and human sperm acrosin activity. Methods: It is a prospective study consisting of 30 infertile men and 12 fertile normozoospermic volunteers. A full history, clinical examination and scrotal ultrasound were done to exclude other related factors such as smoking and varicocele. Presence of white blood cells (WBCs) in semen samples was evaluated by peroxidase staining. Lipid peroxidation in spermatozoa was induced after incubating with ferrous sulphate (4 mmol/L) and sodium ascorbate (20 mmol/L). Induced peroxidation of spermatozoa was assessed by determining the production of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). Acrosin activity was measured using the gelatinolysis technique. The halo diameters around the sperm heads and the percentages of spermatozoa showing halo formation were evaluated. An acrosin activity index was calculated by multiplying the halo diameter by the halo formation rate. Results: A significant difference was observed in acrosin activity parameters and TBARS levels between samples with WBCs (>1×106/mL of ejaculate) and those without. This difference was also noted between the normozoospermic and the oligoasthenoteratozoospermic semen samples. The TBARS production by spermatozoa had a significant negative correlation with the acrosin activity index (r = -0.89, P <0.001). Conclusion: The presence of oxidative stress in an individual with leukocytospermia and/or abnormal semen parameters is associated with impaired sperm function as measured by its acrosin activity.展开更多
Cytokines are a heterogeneous group of peptides that play an important role in intercellular communication, regulation of innate and specific immunity, hematopoiesis, interaction between the immune system and neuroend...Cytokines are a heterogeneous group of peptides that play an important role in intercellular communication, regulation of innate and specific immunity, hematopoiesis, interaction between the immune system and neuroendocrine network as well as in reproduction and development. Seminal plasma provides an immunological environ- ment for the semen and contains important biological response mediators. Numerous studies investigated the presence of various cytokines in the seminal plasma and tried to correlate cytokine levels with sperm quality and male fertility. However, the patho- physiological significance of seminal cytokines in sperm function is still not completely understood. The purpose of this review is to provide a brief summary of the extensive literature dealing with cytokines in the seminal plasma and to discuss the contribution of local cytokine immunity to male fertility.展开更多
Objective:To explore the effect of different fertilization time after human chorionic gonadotropin(HCG)injection on the outcome of fertilization in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer(IVF-ET).Methods:One thousand one ...Objective:To explore the effect of different fertilization time after human chorionic gonadotropin(HCG)injection on the outcome of fertilization in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer(IVF-ET).Methods:One thousand one hundred and forty IVF-ET cycles from January 2016 to August 2018 were analyzed retrospectively.According to the different fertilization time after injection of HCG divided into four groups:Group A(38.0 h~39.0 h),Group B(39.1 h~40.0 h),Group C(40.1 h~41.0 h),and Group D(41.1 h~42.0 h).The normal fertilization rate,the normal cleavage rate,the embryo utilization rate,the high-quality embryo rate,the clinical pregnancy rate,the implantation rate,and the spontaneous abortion rate were analyzed among the groups.Then we investigated the effect of different promotion methods on the outcome of fertilization during the optimal fertilization time.Results:There was no significant difference in 2PN cleavage rate,available embryo rate,clinical pregnancy rate,implantation rate and abortion rate among the four groups(P>0.05).The high-quality embryo rate in Group D(44.6%)was the highest,and was significantly different among the four groups(P<0.05).The normal fertilization rate in Group D(71.6%)was the highest,and was significantly different among the four groups(P<0.05).The normal fertilization rate(78.1%)of antagonist group was significantly higher than other groups(P<0.05).Conclusion:The different fertilization time after HCG injection have effects on high-quality embryo rate and normal fertilization rate of patients in IVF-ET.The appropriate fertilization time of patients in IVF-ET was 41 h~42 h after HCG injection in our reproductive center,improved the clinical pregnancy rate and reduced the early abortion rate.The GnRH-ant protocol is superior to other protocol in IVF-ET.展开更多
Background: In Vitro Fertilization/Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (IVF/ICSI) represents the final step in the management of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). Our objective was to study the association between PCOS...Background: In Vitro Fertilization/Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (IVF/ICSI) represents the final step in the management of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). Our objective was to study the association between PCOS phenotypes and IVF/ICSI results in women admitted to Gynaecological Endoscopic Surgery and Human Reproductive Teaching Hospital (CHRACERH). Material and Method: We carried out a cohort study with historical-prospective data collection over a period of seven years (January 2016 to March 2023) at Chracerh. PCOS patients were subdivided into 4 subgroups A, B, C and D. Results: We recruited 128 patients including 64 PCOS patients divided into four phenotypes and 64 non-PCOS patients constituting the control group. Phenotype D without hyperandrogenism had used the lowest dose of gonadotropins, i.e. 1939.7 ± 454.3 IU, and had produced a greater quantity of estradiol on the day ovulation was triggered (6529.8 ± 4324.8 ng/ml). The average number of punctured follicles and mature oocytes were higher in the phenotype D group. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) occurred mainly in phenotype D (3/35), with an estimated prevalence of 2.3%. The fertilization rate seemed lower in the hyperandrogenic phenotypes A, B, C compared to the group without hyperandrogenism without significant difference (p = 0.461). The biological pregnancy rate and live birth rate were comparable between the different groups. Conclusion: Phenotype D used less dose of gonadotropins. Biological pregnancy and live birth rates were comparable between the different phenotypes.展开更多
Background: Since 2021, high-risk Human Papilloma Virus (HR-HPV) testing has been the recommended screening test for cervical cancer for all settings;either used alone in a “test and treat” strategy, or with a triag...Background: Since 2021, high-risk Human Papilloma Virus (HR-HPV) testing has been the recommended screening test for cervical cancer for all settings;either used alone in a “test and treat” strategy, or with a triage test, with or without biopsy, before treatment. Cameroon has rolled out immunization against HPV 16 and 18, but studies show a higher prevalence of non-16/18 HR-HPV types. Objectives: Determine the prevalence of precancerous lesions, in women with HR-HPV infection and evaluate association of digital cervicography (DC) VIA/VILI positivity with HPV serotype, as a measure of their contribution to precancer and cancer incidence. Methodology: The study was cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytic. It took place at the Etoug-Ebe and Ekoudoum Baptist Hospitals in Yaoundé, during the period April-September 2022. We reviewed the records of women screened for cervical cancer between February 2020 and December 2021 and evaluated the prevalence of lesions on digital cervicography (DC) with VIA/VILI for women positive for HR-HPV serotypes. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 for Windows. P values Results: We identified 315 cases with a positive HR-HPV deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) test, 224 (71.1%) had a DC VIA/VILI triage test done. Of these, 30 (13.4%) women had a positive DC VIA/VILI, with five women (2.2%) having lesions suggestive of cancer. Out of 11 cases positive for HPV 16 alone, 05 (45.5%) had a positive DC VIA/VILI test. Of the 14 cases positive for HPV 18 alone, 03 (21.4%) had a positive VIA/VILI, meanwhile only 19 (10.7%) of the 177 cases positive for non-16/18 HPV had a positive VIA/VILI test. Conclusion: A high proportion of women (13.4%) with HR HPV had a positive DC VIA/VILI, with a significant proportion (2.2%) having lesions suggestive of invasive cervical cancer HR-HPV serotype was associated with DC VIA/VILI positivity;HPV 16 had the strongest association (45.5%), followed by HPV 18 (21.4%), and non-16/18 HR-HPV (10.7%), suggesting a decreasing order of oncogenicity.展开更多
Tick-borne encephalitis virus(TBEV)is a re-emerging pathogen in Kazakhstan,where the increasing risk of its spread underscores the need for improved healthcare preparedness,including the development of local vaccines....Tick-borne encephalitis virus(TBEV)is a re-emerging pathogen in Kazakhstan,where the increasing risk of its spread underscores the need for improved healthcare preparedness,including the development of local vaccines.However,the absence of reference TBEV strains in the country presented a major challenge.To address this,we generated a prototype strain(Vasilchenko)of the Siberian TBEV genotype,predominant in Kazakhstan,using synthetic genome and molecular infectious clone technology.A DNA-launched TBEV molecular clone was assembled from DNA fragments,enabling virus rescue upon plasmid transfection.During the propagation of the post-transfection virus in cell culture,a single amino acid substitution(E51K)in the envelope protein emerged,resulting in a 100-fold increase in the titer of the mutant variant.In vivo,this mutation significantly attenuated virulence:while wild-type TBEV caused 100%mortality in BALB/c mice,the E51K variant was non-lethal and exhibited reduced viremia,suggesting impaired neuroinvasiveness.To further exploit this attenuated,high-titer virus,we developed a GFP-expressing reporter TBEV variant.Using this reporter system,we demonstrated that favipiravir possesses antiviral activity against TBEV,with inhibitory concentrations within a pharmacologically relevant range.In conclusion,synthetic genomics enabled the generation of a reference TBEV strain to replenish Kazakhstan's collections.The E51K mutation enhances viral replication in vitro while attenuating pathogenicity in vivo,and the derived reporter virus is suitable for antiviral compound screening.展开更多
Infertility has become one of the most serious diseases worldwide,and 50% of this disease can be attributed to male-related factors.Spermatogenesis,by definition,is a complex process by which spermatogonial stem cells...Infertility has become one of the most serious diseases worldwide,and 50% of this disease can be attributed to male-related factors.Spermatogenesis,by definition,is a complex process by which spermatogonial stem cells(SSCs)self-renew to maintain stem cell population within the testes and differentiate into mature spermatids.It is of great significance to uncover gene regulation and signaling pathways that are involved in the fate determinations of SSCs with aims to better understand molecular mechanisms underlying human spermatogenesis and identify novel targets for gene therapy of male infertility.Significant achievement has recently been made in demonstrating the signaling molecules and pathways mediating the fate decisions of mammalian SSCs.In this review,we address key gene regulation and crucial signaling transduction pathways in controlling the self-renewal,differentiation,and apoptosis of SSCs,and we illustrate the networks of genes and signaling pathways in SSC fate determinations.We also highlight perspectives and future directions in SSC regulation by genes and their signaling pathways.This review could provide novel insights into the genetic regulation of normal and abnormal spermatogenesis and offer molecular targets to develop new approaches for gene therapy of male infertility.展开更多
Azoospermia, defined as a complete absence of spermatozoa in the ejaculate, is a relatively common condition among infertile men. Establishing the etiological diagnosis can be challenging and often requires various in...Azoospermia, defined as a complete absence of spermatozoa in the ejaculate, is a relatively common condition among infertile men. Establishing the etiological diagnosis can be challenging and often requires various investigations. This cross-sectional study, conducted in Cotonou among 35 azoospermic men, aimed to assess the role of biochemical analysis of seminal fluid in determining the etiological diagnosis. The results revealed significant heterogeneity in biochemical profiles. Most of the patients had normal levels of alpha-glucosidase, fructose, and zinc, indicating normal accessory gland function and suggesting non-obstructive azoospermia. However, a significant subgroup exhibited abnormalities in these markers, suggesting a possible obstructive azoospermia. The heterogeneity in biochemical profiles observed in this study highlights the need for further studies to better characterize azoospermia in Benin.展开更多
Hereditary spastic paraplegias(HSPs)refer to a genetically and clinically heterogeneous group of neurodegenerative disorders characterized by the degeneration of motor neurons.To date,a significant number of patients ...Hereditary spastic paraplegias(HSPs)refer to a genetically and clinically heterogeneous group of neurodegenerative disorders characterized by the degeneration of motor neurons.To date,a significant number of patients still have not received a definite genetic diagnosis.Therefore,identifying unreported causative genes continues to be of great importance.Here,we perform whole-exome sequencing in a cohort of Chinese HSP patients.Three homozygous variants(p.L604W,p.S517F,and p.T984A)within the sterol regulatory element-binding factor 2(SREBF2)gene are identified in one autosomal recessive family and two sporadic patients,respectively.Co-segregation is confirmed by Sanger sequencing in all available members.The three variants are rare in the public or in-house database and are predicted to be damaging.The biological impacts of variants in SREBF2 are examined by functional experiments in patient-derived fibroblasts and Drosophila.We find that the variants upregulate cellular cholesterol due to the overactivation of SREBP2,eventually impairing the autophagosomal and lysosomal functions.The overexpression of the mature form of SREBP2 leads to locomotion defects in Drosophila.Our findings identify SREBF2 as a causative gene for HSP and highlight the impairment of cholesterol as a critical pathway for HSP.展开更多
Dear Editor,We are much obliged that Hadziselimovic1 has used our data2 to highlight the substantial proportion of boys with cryptorchidism where gonadotropin insufficiency is an important factor related to the pathog...Dear Editor,We are much obliged that Hadziselimovic1 has used our data2 to highlight the substantial proportion of boys with cryptorchidism where gonadotropin insufficiency is an important factor related to the pathogenesis.We have recently presented a study on a series of 453 consecutive boys with bilateral nonsyndromic cryptorchidism,in which we conducted hormonal evaluations and assessed germ cell numbers in testicular biopsies.3 In this series,45%of the boys were classified as having gonadotropin insufficiency.3 Identifying these patients at the time of surgery is important.A recent follow-up study of 208 boys with nonsyndromic bilateral cryptorchidism from our department showed that the boys with gonadotropin insufficiency had an impaired fertility potential after surgery compared to boys with an intact hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadal feedback mechanism.4 In a review from 2022,Hadziselimovic5 suggested that infertility in patients diagnosed with cryptorchid testes is a consequence of a hormonal deficiency rather than temperature-induced cellular damage.展开更多
Background Sperm cryopreservation is widely used in the cattle industry,as it allows for disassociating the localiza-tion of sires and the collection of semen from the timing of artificial insemination.While freeze-th...Background Sperm cryopreservation is widely used in the cattle industry,as it allows for disassociating the localiza-tion of sires and the collection of semen from the timing of artificial insemination.While freeze-thawing is known to impair sperm DNA integrity,whether the damage induced consists of single-(SSB)or double-strand breaks(DSB)has not been determined.In addition,no previous study has addressed if DNA breaks preferentially reside in specific genome regions such as those forming the toroid linker regions,or are rather spread throughout the regions linked to protamines.The main aim of the present work,therefore,was to elucidate the type and localization of the DNA damage generated by cryopreservation and to evaluate its impact on artificial insemination outcomes in cattle.Results The incidence of SSB and DSB was evaluated in 12 ejaculates before and after cryopreservation with the Comet assay,and the localization of the DNA breaks was assessed using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis(PFGE).Before cryopreservation,the incidence of SSB was 10.99%±4.62%and involved 20.56%±3.04%of sperm cells,whereas these figures significantly(P<0.0001)increased up to 34.11%±3.48%and 53.36%±11.00%in frozen-thawed sperm.In contrast,no significant differences in the incidence of DSB were observed(P>0.990)before and after cryopreservation(before:incidence of 13.91%±1.75%of sperm DNA affecting 56.04%±12.49%of sperm cells;after:incidence of 13.55%±1.55%of sperm DNA involving 53.36%±11.00%of sperm cells).Moreover,PFGE revealed that the percentage of sperm DNA fragments whose length was shorter than a toroid(<31.5 kb)was greater(P<0.0001)after(27.00%±4.26%)than before freeze-thawing(15.57%±4.53%).These differences indicated that the DNA breaks induced by cryopreservation affect the regions condensed in protamines,which are structured in toroids.On the other hand,in vivo fertility rates were associated to the incidence of SSB and DSB in frozen-thawed sperm(P=0.032 and P=0.005),but not with the size of the DNA fragments resulting from these breaks(P>0.05).Conclusion Cryopreservation of bovine sperm generates single-strand DNA breaks,which are mainly located in protamine-condensed toroidal regions.The incidence of DNA breaks in cryopreserved sperm has an impact on cat-tle fertility,regardless of the size of generated fragments.展开更多
Objective:To elucidate the relationship among knowledge,attitudes,and practices regarding Covid-19 and their relationship with booster vaccination status among women with infertility.Methods:This questionnaire-based c...Objective:To elucidate the relationship among knowledge,attitudes,and practices regarding Covid-19 and their relationship with booster vaccination status among women with infertility.Methods:This questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was performed online and offline among women with infertility who visited an infertility clinic in Jakarta,Indonesia.We assessed the patient’s knowledge,attitudes,and practices regarding Covid-19 and their relationship with booster vaccination status and sociodemographic profile.Results:A total of 178 subjects participated in this study,and most participants(92.6%)had received booster Covid-19 vaccines.From the questionnaire,74.2%had good knowledge,and 99.4%had good attitudes regarding Covid-19;however,only 57.9%of patients had good practices.A weak positive correlation existed between knowledge and attitudes(r=0.11,P=0.13)and a moderate negative correlation between attitudes and practices(r=-0.44,P=0.56).Participants’knowledge about vaccines and infertility was correlated with booster vaccination status(P=0.04).Academic background(P=0.01)and attitudes(P=0.01)were also correlated with booster vaccination status.The significant determinants of hesitance of receiving Covid-19 booster vaccines were high school education or below(OR=0.08,95%CI 0.02-0.36)and poor practices(OR=0.21,95%CI 0.05-0.95).Conclusions:The majority of the participants had received the Covid-19 booster vaccine and had good knowledge and attitudes but poor practices regarding Covid-19.Most participants had poor knowledge about the relationship between infertility and the Covid-19 vaccine.The general population should be more informed and reminded about practices to prevent Covid-19 and the relationship between vaccination and fertility to increase the number of people who receive Covid-19 booster vaccines.展开更多
<abstract>Aim: To evaluate the effect of Chinese Traditional Medicine, acupuncture and moxa treatment, on the semen quality in patients with semen abnormalities. Methods: In a prospective, controlled and blind s...<abstract>Aim: To evaluate the effect of Chinese Traditional Medicine, acupuncture and moxa treatment, on the semen quality in patients with semen abnormalities. Methods: In a prospective, controlled and blind study, nineteen patients, aged 24 years-42 years and married for 3 years-11 years without children with semen abnormalities in concentration, morphology and/or progressive motility without apparent cause, were randomized into two groups and submitted to acupuncture and moxa treatment at the therapeutic (Study Group) and the indifferent points (Control Group), respectively, for 10 weeks. Semen analyses were performed before and after the treatment course. Results: The patients of the Study Group presented a significant increase in the percentage of normal-form sperm compared to the Control Group (calculated U=16.0, critical U=17.0). Conclusion: The Chinese Traditional Medicine acupuncture and moxa techniques significantly increase the percentage of normal-form sperm in infertile patients with oligoastenoteratozoospermia without apparent cause.展开更多
Aim: To 1) compare post-wash and post-thaw parameters of sperm processed with PureSperm density gradient technique and swim-up method; and 2) test the efficacy of two commonly available density gradient media PureSper...Aim: To 1) compare post-wash and post-thaw parameters of sperm processed with PureSperm density gradient technique and swim-up method; and 2) test the efficacy of two commonly available density gradient media PureSperm and ISolate. Methods: This prospective study used semen specimens from 22 patients. Specimens from nine patients were processed by both PureSperm density gradient and swim-up method. These specimens were then cryopreserved. Thirteen specimens were processed by both PureSperm (40 % and 80 %) and Isolate (50 % and 90 %) double density gradient techniques. The two fractions processed by both PureSperm and swim-up were analyzed for post-wash sperm characteristics. Post-thaw analysis was done after 24 hours. Sperm fractions obtained after processing with PureSperm and ISolate were compared for post-wash sperm characteristics and ROS levels. Results: Specimens prepared with PureSperm had significantly higher median total motile sperm counts (TMSC) (32.2 x 10~6 vs. 17.6 x 10~6), recovery rates (69.2 % vs. 50.0 %), and longevity at 4 hours (83.0 % vs. 55.0 %) compared to specimen prepared by swim-up. Post-thaw specimens also had a higher recovery and longevity at 4 hours with PureSperm as compared to the swim-up. Semen specimens processed by PureSperm had significantly higher total sperm count, TMSC, and percentage recovery rates (30.0 % vs. 19.7 %) than ISolate. Conclusion: Semen quality is better preserved in fresh and cryopreserved semen prepared with PureSperm density gradient compared to swim-up. A significant enrichment of sperm is observed with PureSperm compared to ISolate. Higher recovery rates of mature motile sperm obtained after PureSperm sperm preparation may be beneficial for successful ART. i展开更多
Although laparoscopy has the potential to reduce peritoneal trauma and post-operative peritoneal adhesion formation, only one randomized controlled trial and a few comparative retrospective clinical studies have addre...Although laparoscopy has the potential to reduce peritoneal trauma and post-operative peritoneal adhesion formation, only one randomized controlled trial and a few comparative retrospective clinical studies have addressed this issue. Laparoscopy reduces de novo adhesion formation but has no efficacy in reducing adhesion reformation after adhesiolysis. Moreover, several studies have suggested that the reduction of de novo post-operative adhesions does not seem to have a significant clinical impact. Experimental data in animal models have suggested that CO<sub>2</sub> pneumoperitoneum can cause acute peritoneal inflammation during laparoscopy depending on the insufflation pressure and the surgery duration. Broad peritoneal cavity protection by the insufflation of a low-temperature humidified gas mixture of CO<sub>2</sub>, N<sub>2</sub>O and O<sub>2</sub> seems to represent the best approach for reducing peritoneal inflammation due to pneumoperitoneum. However, these experimental data have not had a significant impact on the modification of laparoscopic instrumentation. In contrast, surgeons should train themselves to perform laparoscopy quickly, and they should complete their learning curves before testing chemical anti-adhesive agents and anti-adhesion barriers. Chemical anti-adhesive agents have the potential to exert broad peritoneal cavity protection against adhesion formation, but when these agents are used alone, the concentrations needed to prevent adhesions are too high and could cause major post-operative side effects. Anti-adhesion barriers have been used mainly in open surgery, but some clinical data from laparoscopic surgeries are already available. Sprays, gels, and fluid barriers are easier to apply in laparoscopic surgery than solid barriers. Results have been encouraging with solid barriers, spray barriers, and gel barriers, but they have been ambiguous with fluid barriers. Moreover, when barriers have been used alone, the maximum protection against adhesion formation has been no greater than 60%. A recent small, randomized clinical trial suggested that the combination of broad peritoneal cavity protection with local application of a barrier could be almost 100% effective in preventing post-operative adhesion formation. Future studies should confirm the efficacy of this global strategy in preventing adhesion formation after laparoscopy by focusing on clinical end points, such as reduced incidences of bowel obstruction and abdominal pain and increased fertility.展开更多
Globozoospermia is a severe form of teratozoospermia characterized by round-headed spermatozoa with an absent acrosome, an aberrant nuclear membrane and midpiece defects. Globozoospermia is diagnosed by the presence o...Globozoospermia is a severe form of teratozoospermia characterized by round-headed spermatozoa with an absent acrosome, an aberrant nuclear membrane and midpiece defects. Globozoospermia is diagnosed by the presence of 100% round-headed spermatozoa on semen analysis, and patients with this condition are absolutely infertile. The objective of this study was to investigate the differences in protein expression between human round- headed and normal spermatozoa. Two-dimensional （2-D） fluorescence difference gel electrophoresis （DIGE） coupled with mass spectrometry （MS） was used in this study. Over 61 protein spots were analysed in each paired normal/round-headed comparison, using DIGE technology along with an internal standard. In total, 35 protein spots identified by tandem mass spectrometry （MS/MS） exhibited significant changes （paired t-test, P 〈 0.05） in the expression level between normal and round-headed spermatozoa. A total of nine proteins were found to be upregulated and 26 proteins were found to be downregulated in round-headed spermatozoa compared with normal spermatozoa. The differentially expressed proteins that we identified may have important roles in a variety of cellular processes and structures, including spermatogenesis, cell skeleton, metabolism and spermatozoa motility.展开更多
文摘Objective: Prokineticin-1 (PROK1) is a recently described protein with a wide range of functions including tissue specific angiogenesis, modulation of inflammatory responses and regulation of haematopoiesis. PROK1 has been found in the steroidogenic organs like ovary, testis, adrenal and specially placenta and they have been found to have a role in development of the olfactory system and GnRH system. The aim was to update the role of PROK1 and PROK2 inhuman reproduction since the review was provided by Maldono-Perez (2007) on the potentials of prokineticins in reproduction. Design: A review of international scientific literature by a search of Pubmed and the authors files was done for citation of articles relevant to prokineticins in reproduction, be it its role in ovary, testis, uterus with special emphasis on implantation, normal pregnancy, in labour, pathophysiological states like tubal pregnancy, pcos, various genital tumours, and cases of isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism with mutations with PROK2/ PROKR2 and studies detailing functional mechanisms. Results: In the normal cycle, PROK1 has been found to have important roles in implantation, regulating several genes like COX-2, IL-8, IL-11, CTGF related to implantation. Initially murine studies revealed a critical role of PROK2 pathway on olfactory bulb morphogenesis and GnRH secretion which was accidentally discovered and since then several studies on mutations in PROK2/PROKR2 showed that they underlie some case of KS in humans. Although in mouse heterozygote state is not associated with clinical phenotype, most of human mutations are heterozygous. Conclusions: Role of PROK-1 in the process of implantation, with a deeper understanding of the process success rates in IVF and ART can be improved, besides understanding the pathophysiology of tubal pregnancy. Further presence in ovarian follicles of PROK1 can be used to plan a strategy for treating pcos. Development of antagonism of PROK’S may be a helpful strategy in treating preterm labour.
文摘The authors regret to report the following error made in“Spatiotemporal dynamics of neuron differentiation and migration in the developing human spinal cord;52(2025)-101283-1295;Doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jgg.2025.08.004”.In Tables S1 and S2 in the supplementary materials of this paper,some items were written in Chinese.The corresponding pictures and tables were not uploaded in time.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China (2024YFA1802300 and 2023YFF1204701)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (32225012 and 32200662)+3 种基金Major Project of Guangzhou National Laboratory (GZNL2023A02005)Pearl River Talent Recruitment Program (2021ZT09Y233)Science and Technology Planning Project of Guangdong Province,China(2023B1212060050 and 2023B1212120009)Health@Inno HK Program launched by Innovation Technology Commission of the Hong Kong SAR,P.R. China.
文摘Precise formation of complex neural circuits in the spinal cord,achieved through the integration of diverse neuronal populations,is essential for central nervous system function.However,the specialization and migration of human spinal cord neurons remain poorly understood.In this study,we perform single-cell transcriptome sequencing of human spinal cord from Carnegie Stages(CS)16–21 and mouse spinal cord from embryonic day(E)8.0–11.5,complemented by in situ sequencing of human spinal cord(CS 16–20).Our results reveal the critical role of the precursor state in neuronal differentiation and migration,identifying key transcription factors that regulate these processes across species.Notably,each neuronal lineage expresses unique markers as early as the progenitor stage at the spinal cord midline,and subsequently undergoes a shared transcriptional program during precursor commitment that guides migration.This synchronized migration,validated by spatial transcriptomics,occurs in both dorsal and ventral regions.Our findings offer important insights into the migration patterns and regulatory factors that guide spinal cord neuron subtype specification during embryogenesis.
文摘Aim: To study the association between seminal oxidative stress and human sperm acrosin activity. Methods: It is a prospective study consisting of 30 infertile men and 12 fertile normozoospermic volunteers. A full history, clinical examination and scrotal ultrasound were done to exclude other related factors such as smoking and varicocele. Presence of white blood cells (WBCs) in semen samples was evaluated by peroxidase staining. Lipid peroxidation in spermatozoa was induced after incubating with ferrous sulphate (4 mmol/L) and sodium ascorbate (20 mmol/L). Induced peroxidation of spermatozoa was assessed by determining the production of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). Acrosin activity was measured using the gelatinolysis technique. The halo diameters around the sperm heads and the percentages of spermatozoa showing halo formation were evaluated. An acrosin activity index was calculated by multiplying the halo diameter by the halo formation rate. Results: A significant difference was observed in acrosin activity parameters and TBARS levels between samples with WBCs (>1×106/mL of ejaculate) and those without. This difference was also noted between the normozoospermic and the oligoasthenoteratozoospermic semen samples. The TBARS production by spermatozoa had a significant negative correlation with the acrosin activity index (r = -0.89, P <0.001). Conclusion: The presence of oxidative stress in an individual with leukocytospermia and/or abnormal semen parameters is associated with impaired sperm function as measured by its acrosin activity.
文摘Cytokines are a heterogeneous group of peptides that play an important role in intercellular communication, regulation of innate and specific immunity, hematopoiesis, interaction between the immune system and neuroendocrine network as well as in reproduction and development. Seminal plasma provides an immunological environ- ment for the semen and contains important biological response mediators. Numerous studies investigated the presence of various cytokines in the seminal plasma and tried to correlate cytokine levels with sperm quality and male fertility. However, the patho- physiological significance of seminal cytokines in sperm function is still not completely understood. The purpose of this review is to provide a brief summary of the extensive literature dealing with cytokines in the seminal plasma and to discuss the contribution of local cytokine immunity to male fertility.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81460236)Major Science and Technology Program of Hainan Province(No.ZDKJ2017007)Innovative Project for Postgraduate of Hainan Province(No.Hys2018-281)。
文摘Objective:To explore the effect of different fertilization time after human chorionic gonadotropin(HCG)injection on the outcome of fertilization in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer(IVF-ET).Methods:One thousand one hundred and forty IVF-ET cycles from January 2016 to August 2018 were analyzed retrospectively.According to the different fertilization time after injection of HCG divided into four groups:Group A(38.0 h~39.0 h),Group B(39.1 h~40.0 h),Group C(40.1 h~41.0 h),and Group D(41.1 h~42.0 h).The normal fertilization rate,the normal cleavage rate,the embryo utilization rate,the high-quality embryo rate,the clinical pregnancy rate,the implantation rate,and the spontaneous abortion rate were analyzed among the groups.Then we investigated the effect of different promotion methods on the outcome of fertilization during the optimal fertilization time.Results:There was no significant difference in 2PN cleavage rate,available embryo rate,clinical pregnancy rate,implantation rate and abortion rate among the four groups(P>0.05).The high-quality embryo rate in Group D(44.6%)was the highest,and was significantly different among the four groups(P<0.05).The normal fertilization rate in Group D(71.6%)was the highest,and was significantly different among the four groups(P<0.05).The normal fertilization rate(78.1%)of antagonist group was significantly higher than other groups(P<0.05).Conclusion:The different fertilization time after HCG injection have effects on high-quality embryo rate and normal fertilization rate of patients in IVF-ET.The appropriate fertilization time of patients in IVF-ET was 41 h~42 h after HCG injection in our reproductive center,improved the clinical pregnancy rate and reduced the early abortion rate.The GnRH-ant protocol is superior to other protocol in IVF-ET.
文摘Background: In Vitro Fertilization/Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (IVF/ICSI) represents the final step in the management of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). Our objective was to study the association between PCOS phenotypes and IVF/ICSI results in women admitted to Gynaecological Endoscopic Surgery and Human Reproductive Teaching Hospital (CHRACERH). Material and Method: We carried out a cohort study with historical-prospective data collection over a period of seven years (January 2016 to March 2023) at Chracerh. PCOS patients were subdivided into 4 subgroups A, B, C and D. Results: We recruited 128 patients including 64 PCOS patients divided into four phenotypes and 64 non-PCOS patients constituting the control group. Phenotype D without hyperandrogenism had used the lowest dose of gonadotropins, i.e. 1939.7 ± 454.3 IU, and had produced a greater quantity of estradiol on the day ovulation was triggered (6529.8 ± 4324.8 ng/ml). The average number of punctured follicles and mature oocytes were higher in the phenotype D group. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) occurred mainly in phenotype D (3/35), with an estimated prevalence of 2.3%. The fertilization rate seemed lower in the hyperandrogenic phenotypes A, B, C compared to the group without hyperandrogenism without significant difference (p = 0.461). The biological pregnancy rate and live birth rate were comparable between the different groups. Conclusion: Phenotype D used less dose of gonadotropins. Biological pregnancy and live birth rates were comparable between the different phenotypes.
文摘Background: Since 2021, high-risk Human Papilloma Virus (HR-HPV) testing has been the recommended screening test for cervical cancer for all settings;either used alone in a “test and treat” strategy, or with a triage test, with or without biopsy, before treatment. Cameroon has rolled out immunization against HPV 16 and 18, but studies show a higher prevalence of non-16/18 HR-HPV types. Objectives: Determine the prevalence of precancerous lesions, in women with HR-HPV infection and evaluate association of digital cervicography (DC) VIA/VILI positivity with HPV serotype, as a measure of their contribution to precancer and cancer incidence. Methodology: The study was cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytic. It took place at the Etoug-Ebe and Ekoudoum Baptist Hospitals in Yaoundé, during the period April-September 2022. We reviewed the records of women screened for cervical cancer between February 2020 and December 2021 and evaluated the prevalence of lesions on digital cervicography (DC) with VIA/VILI for women positive for HR-HPV serotypes. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 for Windows. P values Results: We identified 315 cases with a positive HR-HPV deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) test, 224 (71.1%) had a DC VIA/VILI triage test done. Of these, 30 (13.4%) women had a positive DC VIA/VILI, with five women (2.2%) having lesions suggestive of cancer. Out of 11 cases positive for HPV 16 alone, 05 (45.5%) had a positive DC VIA/VILI test. Of the 14 cases positive for HPV 18 alone, 03 (21.4%) had a positive VIA/VILI, meanwhile only 19 (10.7%) of the 177 cases positive for non-16/18 HPV had a positive VIA/VILI test. Conclusion: A high proportion of women (13.4%) with HR HPV had a positive DC VIA/VILI, with a significant proportion (2.2%) having lesions suggestive of invasive cervical cancer HR-HPV serotype was associated with DC VIA/VILI positivity;HPV 16 had the strongest association (45.5%), followed by HPV 18 (21.4%), and non-16/18 HR-HPV (10.7%), suggesting a decreasing order of oncogenicity.
基金supported by funds from the scientific and technical program BR218004/0223“Improving measures to ensure biological safety in Kazakhstan:counteracting dangerous and especially dangerous infections”.Part of this work carried out in Russian Federation was supported by internal grant funding from the Scientific Centre for Family Health and Human Reproduction Problems:grant number 121022500179-0.Title:“Molecular,Organismal,and Population Patterns of the Epidemic Process of Anthropozoonotic and Transmissible Infections in the Territory of Northern Asia and Adjacent Areas”.
文摘Tick-borne encephalitis virus(TBEV)is a re-emerging pathogen in Kazakhstan,where the increasing risk of its spread underscores the need for improved healthcare preparedness,including the development of local vaccines.However,the absence of reference TBEV strains in the country presented a major challenge.To address this,we generated a prototype strain(Vasilchenko)of the Siberian TBEV genotype,predominant in Kazakhstan,using synthetic genome and molecular infectious clone technology.A DNA-launched TBEV molecular clone was assembled from DNA fragments,enabling virus rescue upon plasmid transfection.During the propagation of the post-transfection virus in cell culture,a single amino acid substitution(E51K)in the envelope protein emerged,resulting in a 100-fold increase in the titer of the mutant variant.In vivo,this mutation significantly attenuated virulence:while wild-type TBEV caused 100%mortality in BALB/c mice,the E51K variant was non-lethal and exhibited reduced viremia,suggesting impaired neuroinvasiveness.To further exploit this attenuated,high-titer virus,we developed a GFP-expressing reporter TBEV variant.Using this reporter system,we demonstrated that favipiravir possesses antiviral activity against TBEV,with inhibitory concentrations within a pharmacologically relevant range.In conclusion,synthetic genomics enabled the generation of a reference TBEV strain to replenish Kazakhstan's collections.The E51K mutation enhances viral replication in vitro while attenuating pathogenicity in vivo,and the derived reporter virus is suitable for antiviral compound screening.
基金supported by the grants from the National Nature Science Foundation of China(No.32170862)Major Scientific and Technological Projects for Collaborative Prevention and Control of Birth Defect in Hunan Province(No.2019SK1012)+1 种基金the Research Team for Reproduction Health and Translational Medicine of Hunan Normal University(No.2023JC101)Graduate Scientific Research Innovation Project of Hunan Province,China(No.CX2022520).
文摘Infertility has become one of the most serious diseases worldwide,and 50% of this disease can be attributed to male-related factors.Spermatogenesis,by definition,is a complex process by which spermatogonial stem cells(SSCs)self-renew to maintain stem cell population within the testes and differentiate into mature spermatids.It is of great significance to uncover gene regulation and signaling pathways that are involved in the fate determinations of SSCs with aims to better understand molecular mechanisms underlying human spermatogenesis and identify novel targets for gene therapy of male infertility.Significant achievement has recently been made in demonstrating the signaling molecules and pathways mediating the fate decisions of mammalian SSCs.In this review,we address key gene regulation and crucial signaling transduction pathways in controlling the self-renewal,differentiation,and apoptosis of SSCs,and we illustrate the networks of genes and signaling pathways in SSC fate determinations.We also highlight perspectives and future directions in SSC regulation by genes and their signaling pathways.This review could provide novel insights into the genetic regulation of normal and abnormal spermatogenesis and offer molecular targets to develop new approaches for gene therapy of male infertility.
文摘Azoospermia, defined as a complete absence of spermatozoa in the ejaculate, is a relatively common condition among infertile men. Establishing the etiological diagnosis can be challenging and often requires various investigations. This cross-sectional study, conducted in Cotonou among 35 azoospermic men, aimed to assess the role of biochemical analysis of seminal fluid in determining the etiological diagnosis. The results revealed significant heterogeneity in biochemical profiles. Most of the patients had normal levels of alpha-glucosidase, fructose, and zinc, indicating normal accessory gland function and suggesting non-obstructive azoospermia. However, a significant subgroup exhibited abnormalities in these markers, suggesting a possible obstructive azoospermia. The heterogeneity in biochemical profiles observed in this study highlights the need for further studies to better characterize azoospermia in Benin.
基金supported by the grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China to Zhi-Ying Wu(82230062,Beijing),Qiao Wei(82402156,Beijing),and Wanzhong Ge(31970668,Beijing)the research foundation for distinguished scholar of Zhejiang University(188020-193810101/089,Hangzhou)to Zhi-Ying Wu
文摘Hereditary spastic paraplegias(HSPs)refer to a genetically and clinically heterogeneous group of neurodegenerative disorders characterized by the degeneration of motor neurons.To date,a significant number of patients still have not received a definite genetic diagnosis.Therefore,identifying unreported causative genes continues to be of great importance.Here,we perform whole-exome sequencing in a cohort of Chinese HSP patients.Three homozygous variants(p.L604W,p.S517F,and p.T984A)within the sterol regulatory element-binding factor 2(SREBF2)gene are identified in one autosomal recessive family and two sporadic patients,respectively.Co-segregation is confirmed by Sanger sequencing in all available members.The three variants are rare in the public or in-house database and are predicted to be damaging.The biological impacts of variants in SREBF2 are examined by functional experiments in patient-derived fibroblasts and Drosophila.We find that the variants upregulate cellular cholesterol due to the overactivation of SREBP2,eventually impairing the autophagosomal and lysosomal functions.The overexpression of the mature form of SREBP2 leads to locomotion defects in Drosophila.Our findings identify SREBF2 as a causative gene for HSP and highlight the impairment of cholesterol as a critical pathway for HSP.
文摘Dear Editor,We are much obliged that Hadziselimovic1 has used our data2 to highlight the substantial proportion of boys with cryptorchidism where gonadotropin insufficiency is an important factor related to the pathogenesis.We have recently presented a study on a series of 453 consecutive boys with bilateral nonsyndromic cryptorchidism,in which we conducted hormonal evaluations and assessed germ cell numbers in testicular biopsies.3 In this series,45%of the boys were classified as having gonadotropin insufficiency.3 Identifying these patients at the time of surgery is important.A recent follow-up study of 208 boys with nonsyndromic bilateral cryptorchidism from our department showed that the boys with gonadotropin insufficiency had an impaired fertility potential after surgery compared to boys with an intact hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadal feedback mechanism.4 In a review from 2022,Hadziselimovic5 suggested that infertility in patients diagnosed with cryptorchid testes is a consequence of a hormonal deficiency rather than temperature-induced cellular damage.
基金Ministry of Science,Innovation and Universities,Spain(NextGeneration EU fundsMaría Zambrano Program 124/MTAI/22+2 种基金and PID2020-113320RB-I00)Agency for Management of University and Research Grants,Regional Government of Catalonia,Spain(2021-SGR-00900)Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies(ICREA).
文摘Background Sperm cryopreservation is widely used in the cattle industry,as it allows for disassociating the localiza-tion of sires and the collection of semen from the timing of artificial insemination.While freeze-thawing is known to impair sperm DNA integrity,whether the damage induced consists of single-(SSB)or double-strand breaks(DSB)has not been determined.In addition,no previous study has addressed if DNA breaks preferentially reside in specific genome regions such as those forming the toroid linker regions,or are rather spread throughout the regions linked to protamines.The main aim of the present work,therefore,was to elucidate the type and localization of the DNA damage generated by cryopreservation and to evaluate its impact on artificial insemination outcomes in cattle.Results The incidence of SSB and DSB was evaluated in 12 ejaculates before and after cryopreservation with the Comet assay,and the localization of the DNA breaks was assessed using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis(PFGE).Before cryopreservation,the incidence of SSB was 10.99%±4.62%and involved 20.56%±3.04%of sperm cells,whereas these figures significantly(P<0.0001)increased up to 34.11%±3.48%and 53.36%±11.00%in frozen-thawed sperm.In contrast,no significant differences in the incidence of DSB were observed(P>0.990)before and after cryopreservation(before:incidence of 13.91%±1.75%of sperm DNA affecting 56.04%±12.49%of sperm cells;after:incidence of 13.55%±1.55%of sperm DNA involving 53.36%±11.00%of sperm cells).Moreover,PFGE revealed that the percentage of sperm DNA fragments whose length was shorter than a toroid(<31.5 kb)was greater(P<0.0001)after(27.00%±4.26%)than before freeze-thawing(15.57%±4.53%).These differences indicated that the DNA breaks induced by cryopreservation affect the regions condensed in protamines,which are structured in toroids.On the other hand,in vivo fertility rates were associated to the incidence of SSB and DSB in frozen-thawed sperm(P=0.032 and P=0.005),but not with the size of the DNA fragments resulting from these breaks(P>0.05).Conclusion Cryopreservation of bovine sperm generates single-strand DNA breaks,which are mainly located in protamine-condensed toroidal regions.The incidence of DNA breaks in cryopreserved sperm has an impact on cat-tle fertility,regardless of the size of generated fragments.
文摘Objective:To elucidate the relationship among knowledge,attitudes,and practices regarding Covid-19 and their relationship with booster vaccination status among women with infertility.Methods:This questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was performed online and offline among women with infertility who visited an infertility clinic in Jakarta,Indonesia.We assessed the patient’s knowledge,attitudes,and practices regarding Covid-19 and their relationship with booster vaccination status and sociodemographic profile.Results:A total of 178 subjects participated in this study,and most participants(92.6%)had received booster Covid-19 vaccines.From the questionnaire,74.2%had good knowledge,and 99.4%had good attitudes regarding Covid-19;however,only 57.9%of patients had good practices.A weak positive correlation existed between knowledge and attitudes(r=0.11,P=0.13)and a moderate negative correlation between attitudes and practices(r=-0.44,P=0.56).Participants’knowledge about vaccines and infertility was correlated with booster vaccination status(P=0.04).Academic background(P=0.01)and attitudes(P=0.01)were also correlated with booster vaccination status.The significant determinants of hesitance of receiving Covid-19 booster vaccines were high school education or below(OR=0.08,95%CI 0.02-0.36)and poor practices(OR=0.21,95%CI 0.05-0.95).Conclusions:The majority of the participants had received the Covid-19 booster vaccine and had good knowledge and attitudes but poor practices regarding Covid-19.Most participants had poor knowledge about the relationship between infertility and the Covid-19 vaccine.The general population should be more informed and reminded about practices to prevent Covid-19 and the relationship between vaccination and fertility to increase the number of people who receive Covid-19 booster vaccines.
文摘<abstract>Aim: To evaluate the effect of Chinese Traditional Medicine, acupuncture and moxa treatment, on the semen quality in patients with semen abnormalities. Methods: In a prospective, controlled and blind study, nineteen patients, aged 24 years-42 years and married for 3 years-11 years without children with semen abnormalities in concentration, morphology and/or progressive motility without apparent cause, were randomized into two groups and submitted to acupuncture and moxa treatment at the therapeutic (Study Group) and the indifferent points (Control Group), respectively, for 10 weeks. Semen analyses were performed before and after the treatment course. Results: The patients of the Study Group presented a significant increase in the percentage of normal-form sperm compared to the Control Group (calculated U=16.0, critical U=17.0). Conclusion: The Chinese Traditional Medicine acupuncture and moxa techniques significantly increase the percentage of normal-form sperm in infertile patients with oligoastenoteratozoospermia without apparent cause.
文摘Aim: To 1) compare post-wash and post-thaw parameters of sperm processed with PureSperm density gradient technique and swim-up method; and 2) test the efficacy of two commonly available density gradient media PureSperm and ISolate. Methods: This prospective study used semen specimens from 22 patients. Specimens from nine patients were processed by both PureSperm density gradient and swim-up method. These specimens were then cryopreserved. Thirteen specimens were processed by both PureSperm (40 % and 80 %) and Isolate (50 % and 90 %) double density gradient techniques. The two fractions processed by both PureSperm and swim-up were analyzed for post-wash sperm characteristics. Post-thaw analysis was done after 24 hours. Sperm fractions obtained after processing with PureSperm and ISolate were compared for post-wash sperm characteristics and ROS levels. Results: Specimens prepared with PureSperm had significantly higher median total motile sperm counts (TMSC) (32.2 x 10~6 vs. 17.6 x 10~6), recovery rates (69.2 % vs. 50.0 %), and longevity at 4 hours (83.0 % vs. 55.0 %) compared to specimen prepared by swim-up. Post-thaw specimens also had a higher recovery and longevity at 4 hours with PureSperm as compared to the swim-up. Semen specimens processed by PureSperm had significantly higher total sperm count, TMSC, and percentage recovery rates (30.0 % vs. 19.7 %) than ISolate. Conclusion: Semen quality is better preserved in fresh and cryopreserved semen prepared with PureSperm density gradient compared to swim-up. A significant enrichment of sperm is observed with PureSperm compared to ISolate. Higher recovery rates of mature motile sperm obtained after PureSperm sperm preparation may be beneficial for successful ART. i
基金Supported by University of Cagliari,Italy,through the CAR Fund for 2012
文摘Although laparoscopy has the potential to reduce peritoneal trauma and post-operative peritoneal adhesion formation, only one randomized controlled trial and a few comparative retrospective clinical studies have addressed this issue. Laparoscopy reduces de novo adhesion formation but has no efficacy in reducing adhesion reformation after adhesiolysis. Moreover, several studies have suggested that the reduction of de novo post-operative adhesions does not seem to have a significant clinical impact. Experimental data in animal models have suggested that CO<sub>2</sub> pneumoperitoneum can cause acute peritoneal inflammation during laparoscopy depending on the insufflation pressure and the surgery duration. Broad peritoneal cavity protection by the insufflation of a low-temperature humidified gas mixture of CO<sub>2</sub>, N<sub>2</sub>O and O<sub>2</sub> seems to represent the best approach for reducing peritoneal inflammation due to pneumoperitoneum. However, these experimental data have not had a significant impact on the modification of laparoscopic instrumentation. In contrast, surgeons should train themselves to perform laparoscopy quickly, and they should complete their learning curves before testing chemical anti-adhesive agents and anti-adhesion barriers. Chemical anti-adhesive agents have the potential to exert broad peritoneal cavity protection against adhesion formation, but when these agents are used alone, the concentrations needed to prevent adhesions are too high and could cause major post-operative side effects. Anti-adhesion barriers have been used mainly in open surgery, but some clinical data from laparoscopic surgeries are already available. Sprays, gels, and fluid barriers are easier to apply in laparoscopic surgery than solid barriers. Results have been encouraging with solid barriers, spray barriers, and gel barriers, but they have been ambiguous with fluid barriers. Moreover, when barriers have been used alone, the maximum protection against adhesion formation has been no greater than 60%. A recent small, randomized clinical trial suggested that the combination of broad peritoneal cavity protection with local application of a barrier could be almost 100% effective in preventing post-operative adhesion formation. Future studies should confirm the efficacy of this global strategy in preventing adhesion formation after laparoscopy by focusing on clinical end points, such as reduced incidences of bowel obstruction and abdominal pain and increased fertility.
基金Acknowledgment We thank Beijing Proteome Research Center, （Beijing, China） for its enthusiastic technological support and for the theory of 2-D DIGE. We also thank（Changsha, China） College of Life Sciences at Hunan Normal University for supporting the MS technology. Finally, we are very grateful to our collaborators for their help, as well as their valuable discussions and suggestions during the course of this work. This work was supported by two grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China （NO. 30170480 and NO. 30470884）.
文摘Globozoospermia is a severe form of teratozoospermia characterized by round-headed spermatozoa with an absent acrosome, an aberrant nuclear membrane and midpiece defects. Globozoospermia is diagnosed by the presence of 100% round-headed spermatozoa on semen analysis, and patients with this condition are absolutely infertile. The objective of this study was to investigate the differences in protein expression between human round- headed and normal spermatozoa. Two-dimensional （2-D） fluorescence difference gel electrophoresis （DIGE） coupled with mass spectrometry （MS） was used in this study. Over 61 protein spots were analysed in each paired normal/round-headed comparison, using DIGE technology along with an internal standard. In total, 35 protein spots identified by tandem mass spectrometry （MS/MS） exhibited significant changes （paired t-test, P 〈 0.05） in the expression level between normal and round-headed spermatozoa. A total of nine proteins were found to be upregulated and 26 proteins were found to be downregulated in round-headed spermatozoa compared with normal spermatozoa. The differentially expressed proteins that we identified may have important roles in a variety of cellular processes and structures, including spermatogenesis, cell skeleton, metabolism and spermatozoa motility.
