Population aging is one of the common challenges in the current world.As people age,the body’s tissues including cells,and molecules inevitably degrade,and their functions gradually decline,causing various age-relate...Population aging is one of the common challenges in the current world.As people age,the body’s tissues including cells,and molecules inevitably degrade,and their functions gradually decline,causing various age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s disease,osteoporosis,low immunity,glucose and lipid metabolism disorders,and cardiovascular diseases.With the continuous increase of the elderly population,the pressure on the medical industry is increasing.To lower the burden on the medical industry and increase the average age of the elderly,it is vital to explore effective anti-aging materials.Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma(Renshen),as a traditional and precious Chinese medicinal herb,is known as the“king of all herbs”.It is famous for its effects of“tonifying Qi,restoring pulse”(helping with the generation of Qi(the fundamental,vital energy that continuously flows within the body)and the circulation of blood)and strengthening the body,nourishing the spleen and lungs,generating fluids and nourishing blood,calming the mind and improving intelligence.Recently,its anti-aging effect has received increasing attention from modern scientific research.This study summarizes the pharmacological effects of the main active ingredients of Renshen(ginsenosides,polysaccharides,etc.)on resisting aging,including preventing neuroaging,suppressing skin aging,mitigating ovarian aging,inhibiting osteoporosis and arthritis,enhancing the immune system of the elderly,protecting the cardiovascular system,resisting aging-induced fatigue and exerting the anti-tumor effects.Through network pharmacology and molecular docking,the anti-aging active ingredients of Renshen were screened,and the key targets and pathways of anti-aging active ingredients in Renshen were determined.Using network pharmacology,totally 106 drug targets and 3,479 disease targets were screened,and 79 common targets between aging and Renshen were identified.Three core targets were identified in the PPI network,including TNF,AKT1,and IL-1β.Molecular docking was used to obtain further verification.This study emphasizes the potential of Renshen as a source of anti-aging activity,which can be developed into a novel drug for the treatment of age-related diseases.展开更多
As the aging population continues to grow,age-related health issues are becoming increasingly prominent,attracting widespread attention and concern from society.While research on the mechanisms of aging is relatively ...As the aging population continues to grow,age-related health issues are becoming increasingly prominent,attracting widespread attention and concern from society.While research on the mechanisms of aging is relatively extensive,studies on the association between aging and related diseases remain limited.G.lucidum,a traditional medicinal fungus,has garnered significant attention due to its diverse bioactive properties.Recent studies have revealed that G.lucidum and its active components exhibit significant potential in anti-aging and regulating dysregulation of glucose and lipid metabolism.However,a comprehensive and detailed review of recent research findings has yet to be thoroughly explored.This paper summarizes and elucidates the latest advances in the pathological mechanisms of aging-related glucose and lipid metabolism disorders by retrieving data from databases such as X-mol and PubMed,provides a detailed account of the regulatory effects of G.lucidum’s primary active components on aging and lipid metabolism,and explores their potential mechanisms.Additionally,it discusses the application prospects of G.lucidum in the fields of anti-aging and metabolic regulation,aiming to provide a reference for research on aging-mediated lipid metabolism disorders and to lay a theoretical foundation for the further development and application of G.lucidum.展开更多
The impact of prior cesarean section（CS） on the pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer（IVF-ET） was investigated. A retrospective analysis was performed on 144 patients with p...The impact of prior cesarean section（CS） on the pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer（IVF-ET） was investigated. A retrospective analysis was performed on 144 patients with prior CS between January 2013 and December 2015. The pregnancy, delivery, and neonatal outcomes of patients who had previous CS delivery and received IVF-ET were analyzed. The control group comprised 166 patients who had only previous vaginal delivery（VD） and received IVF-ET during the same period. The results showed that the basal follicle stimulating hormone level, estradiol level on human chorionic gonadotropin（h CG） day, gonadotrophin dosage, duration of stimulation, retrieved oocytes, fertilization rate, high-quality embryo rate, multiple birth rate, abortion rate and ectopic pregnancy rate had no significant difference between the two groups（P〉0.05）. The pregnancy rate（40.28% vs. 54.22%） and implantation rate（24.01% vs. 34.67%） were significantly lower（P〈0.05）, and the ratio of embryo difficulty transfer（9/144 vs. 0/166） was significantly higher in CS group than in VD group. The risk of pernicious placenta previa and postpartum hemorrhage in twin deliveries was significantly increased in CS group as compared with that in VD group（P〈0.05）, and gestational age and neonatal birth weight were significantly reduced in twin deliveries as compared with singleton deliveries in both groups（P〈0.05）. It was suggested that the existence of CS scar may impact embryo implantation and clinical pregnancy outcome, and increase the difficulty of ET. We should limit the number of transfer embryos to avoid multiple pregnancies and strengthen gestational supervision in patients with cesarean scar.展开更多
Melatonin,as a ubiquitous indoleamine hormone,is synthesized primarily by the pineal gland.It has diverse biological effects through quite complex mechanisms.More recently,studies have focused on the mechanism of mela...Melatonin,as a ubiquitous indoleamine hormone,is synthesized primarily by the pineal gland.It has diverse biological effects through quite complex mechanisms.More recently,studies have focused on the mechanism of melatonin in anti-reproductive toxicity/damage.Since melatonin possesses strong antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties,researchers have examined its potential role in protecting against male reproductive toxicity/damage,which may be induced by chemotherapy or environmental toxicants and can lead to male infertility.In this article,recent progress regarding the protective effects of melatonin on male reproductive toxicity/damage is reviewed.展开更多
The clinical effects of acupuncture on idio pathic male infertility in sperm parameter and on therapeutic results in assiste d reproductive technology were investigated. 22 patients failed in intracytoplas mic sperm i...The clinical effects of acupuncture on idio pathic male infertility in sperm parameter and on therapeutic results in assiste d reproductive technology were investigated. 22 patients failed in intracytoplas mic sperm injection (ICSI) with idiopathic male infertility were treated with ac upuncture twice weekly for 8 weeks, followed by ICSI treatment again. The sperm concentration, motility, morphology, fertilization rates and embryo quality were observed. Quick sperm motility after acupuncture(18.3 %±9.6 %) was significa ntly improved as compared with that before treatment (11.0 %±7.5 %, P <0.01) . The normal sperm ratio was increased after acupuncture (21.1 %±10.4 % vs 16.2 %± 8.2 %, P <0.05). The fertilization rates after acupuncture (66.2 %) were obviously higher than that before treatment (40.2 %, P <0.01). There was no significant difference in sperm concentration and general sperm motility between before and after acupuncture. The embryo quality after acupuncture was improved , but the difference between them was not significant ( P >0.05). Acupuncture can improve sperm quality and fertilization rates in assisted reproductive techn ology.展开更多
The expression of Attractin mRNA and protein in testis and semen of human and male mice was investigated. Human testis and semen samples were all collected from Reproductive Center of Reumin Hospital, Wuhan University...The expression of Attractin mRNA and protein in testis and semen of human and male mice was investigated. Human testis and semen samples were all collected from Reproductive Center of Reumin Hospital, Wuhan University in December, 2012. Testis samples were collected from 7 cases of obstructive azoospermias when they were subjected to diagnosed testis biopsy, and 30 nor- mal human semen samples were obtained from those cases of semen analysis. Adult mice testis tis- sues were obtained from 10 2-month-old male BALB/c mice, and 60 male mice at different ages were classified into 10 groups （day 1, 5, 10, 15, 21, 28, 35, 42, 56, and 120 respectively, n=6 each）. The expression of Attractin mRNA and protein in testis was detected by RT-PCR and Western blotting re- spectively. Human semen samples were centrifuged into sperm plasma （SP） and sperm extract （SE）, and mice sperm samples were collected from the epididymis of 10 adult male BALB/c mice. Western blotting was used to determine the Attractin protein expression level. Attractin mRNA and protein were expressed in the testis of both patients with obstructive azoospermias and adult Bcl/B mice. Quantitative RT-PCR revealed that no Attractin mRNA was detectable in day 1 male BALB/c mice group. The Attractin mRNA and protein levels were low on the day 10, and increased with age until day 56. On the day 120, the expression levels of Attractin were decreased. As for human semen sam- pies, Attractin protein was expressed in both SP and SE, but didn＇t exist in samples from the epidi- dymis of male BALB/c mice. It was suggested that Attractin acted as a novel active substance and was involved in male reproduction in both human and BALB/c mice, but it exerted a different ex- pression profile in different mammal species.展开更多
BACKGROUND Heterotopic pregnancy(HP)is a rare condition in which both ectopic and intrauterine pregnancies occur.HP is uncommon after natural conception but has recently received more attention due to the widespread u...BACKGROUND Heterotopic pregnancy(HP)is a rare condition in which both ectopic and intrauterine pregnancies occur.HP is uncommon after natural conception but has recently received more attention due to the widespread use of assisted reproductive techniques(ART)such as ovulation promotion therapy.CASE SUMMARY Here,we describe a case of HP that occurred after ART with concurrent tubal and intrauterine singleton pregnancies.This was treated successfully with surgery to preserve the intrauterine pregnancy,resulting in the birth of a low-weight premature infant.This case report aims to increase awareness of the possibility of HP during routine first-trimester ultrasound examinations,especially in pregnancies resulting from ART and even if multiple intrauterine pregnancies are present.CONCLUSION This case alerts us to the importance of comprehensive data collection during regular consultations.It is important for us to remind ourselves of the possibility of HP in all patients presenting after ART,especially in women with an established and stable intrauterine pregnancy that complain of constant abdominal discomfort and also in women with an unusually raised human chorionic gonadotropin level compared with simplex intrauterine pregnancy.This will allow symptomatic and timeous treatment of patients with better results.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the influence of season on live birth and clinical pregnancy rates,as well as assisted reproductive technology(ART)outcomes,in the Hainan region.Methods:Patients were categorized into four gro...Objective:To investigate the influence of season on live birth and clinical pregnancy rates,as well as assisted reproductive technology(ART)outcomes,in the Hainan region.Methods:Patients were categorized into four groups based on the dates of artificial insemination and transplantation:spring,summer,autumn,or winter.The main outcome measures were clinical pregnancy rates and live birth rates.Secondary outcomes included body mass index(BMI),oocyte number,two pronuclei(2PN)cleavage rate,total gonadotropin(Gn)dosage and days,age,2PN fertilization rate,sperm concentration,sperm PR rate,anti-Müllerian hormone(AMH),and endometrial thickness.Outpatient semen quality indicators included sperm PR rate,total sperm count,sperm concentration,and total sperm motility.Results:This retrospective cohort study analyzed 2,016 artificial insemination cycles and 1,783 ovarian retrieval cycles from January 2017 to October 2022,and assessed the semen quality of 6,651 outpatients from May 2017 to October 2022.In artificial insemination cycles,sperm PR rate and clinical pregnancy rate were highest in winter,with a statistically significant difference between groups(P<0.05).Clinical pregnancy rate was influenced by both age and sperm PR rate(P<0.05).In ovarian retrieval cycles,the winter group had significantly higher clinical pregnancy,2PN fertilization,and 2PN cleavage rates than the other groups.The autumn group had higher live birth rates,though not significantly different.Additionally,winter months showed higher total sperm concentration and total sperm number compared to other seasons.Conclusion:Seasonality affected clinical pregnancy and live birth rates in artificial insemination cycles but not in ovarian retrieval cycles in the Hainan region.These findings suggest that while there is no need to choose a specific season for ovarian retrieval cycles,artificial insemination in winter may be preferable for patients.展开更多
Polycystic ovarian syndrome(PCOS)is the most principal reason for infertility in reproductive women,but no versatile treatment is feasible.Although trans-10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid(10H2DA)exhibits the anti-inflammator...Polycystic ovarian syndrome(PCOS)is the most principal reason for infertility in reproductive women,but no versatile treatment is feasible.Although trans-10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid(10H2DA)exhibits the anti-inflammatory,anti-cancerous and immunomodulatory properties,its role in improving PCOS remains elusive.This present study examined the effects of 10H2DA on the estrous cycle,ovarian morphology,reproductive hormone,glucose and insulin tolerances of PCOS mice,analyzed the binding between 10H2DA and free fatty acid receptor 4(FFAR4),and explored the regulation of 10H2DA on the c-Jun N-terminal kinase(JNK)/JUN(Jun proto-oncogene)signaling,cytosolic calcium ion(Ca^(2+)),endoplasmic reticulum(ER)Ca^(2+) release,mitochondrial Ca^(2+),mitochondrial function,autophagy,lysosomal acidification,mitochondrial fission,secretion function and apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells(GCs)using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay,flow cytometry,Western blotting,molecular docking,various fluorescent probes or plasmid,etc.The results showed that 10H2DA alleviated the symptom of PCOS mice through improving the secretion dysfunction of GCs and protecting GCs against apoptosis.After binding to FFAR4 and inactivation of JNK/JUN signaling,10H2DA restricted the release of ER Ca^(2+)through targeting ryanodine receptors(RYRs)which had been identified as the downstream targets of JUN,diminished cytosolic Ca^(2+) accumulation and prevented Ca^(2+) influx into mitochondria via adjusting the mitochondrial calcium uptake 1 and mitochondrial calcium uniporter.Concurrently,10H2DA kept the integrity of mitochondrial function through maintaining mitochondrial Ca2 homeostasis and suppressed the discharge of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species into the cytosol through blocking the mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening to avoid the lipid peroxidation and ameliorate the secretory function and apoptosis of GCs.Furthermore,1OH2DA rescued the defective autophagic flux along with the decline of autophagosomes and sequestosome 1 aggregation,restored the mitophagy flux with the abatement of mitophagosomes and Parkin recruitment to mitochondria,and accelerated the lysosomal degradation for depolarized mitochondria with the recovery of lysosomal acidification,whereas activation of JNK antagonized the amelioration of 10H2DA on above effectiveness,but this antagonism was counteracted by the attenuation of intracellular Ca^(2+).After application of 10H2DA,dynamin-related protein 1 phosphorylation was diminished and its recruitment to mitochondrial surface was impeded concomitant with the improvement of mitochondrial fragmentation,whereas inhibition of late-stage autophagy caused the failure of 10H2DA in improving mitochondrial fission.Collectively,10H2DA might ameliorate PCOS mice through modulating autophagy-mediated mitochondrial fission dependent on the maintenance of Ca^(2+) homeostasis between ER and mitochondria.展开更多
Being widespread across the globe,severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)keeps evolving and generating new variants and continuously poses threat to public health,especially to the population with ...Being widespread across the globe,severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)keeps evolving and generating new variants and continuously poses threat to public health,especially to the population with chronic comorbidities.Diabetes mellitus is one of high-risk factors for severe outcome of coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19).Establishment of animal models that parallel the clinical and pathological features of COVID-19 complicated with diabetes is thus highly essential.Here,in this study,we constructed leptin receptor gene knockout hamsters with the phenotype of diabetes mellitus(db/db),and revealed that the diabetic hamsters were more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 and its variants than wild-type hamsters.SARS-CoV-2 and its variants induced a stronger immune cytokine response in the lungs of diabetic hamsters than in wild-type hamsters.Comparative histopathology analyses also showed that infection of SARS-CoV-2 and the variants caused more severe lung tissue injury in diabetic hamsters,and may induce serious complications such as diabetic kidney disease and cardiac lesions.Our findings demonstrated that despite the decreased respiratory pathogenicity,the SARS-CoV-2 variants were still capable of impairing other organs such as kidney and heart in diabetic hamsters,suggesting that the risk of evolving SARS-CoV-2 variants to diabetic patients should never be neglected.This hamster model may help better understand the pathogenesis mechanism of severe COVID-19 in patients with diabetes.It will also aid in development and testing of effective therapeutics and prophylactic treatments against SARS-CoV-2 variants among these high-risk populations.展开更多
For chromosome abnormalities(CAs),such as Down syndrome(DS),the influence of genomic variations on chromosome conformation and gene transcription remains elusive.Based on the complete genomic sequences from the parent...For chromosome abnormalities(CAs),such as Down syndrome(DS),the influence of genomic variations on chromosome conformation and gene transcription remains elusive.Based on the complete genomic sequences from the parents of a DS trisomy patient,we systematically delineated an atlas of parental-specific,haplotype-resolved single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs),copy number variations(CNVs),threedimensional(3D)genome architecture,and RNA expression profiles in the diencephalon of the DS patient.The integrated haplotype-resolved multi-omics analysis demonstrated that one-dimensional(1D)genomic variations including SNPs and CNVs in the DS patient are highly correlated with the alterations in the 3D genome organization and the subsequent changes in gene transcription.This correlation remains valid at the haplotype level.Moreover,we revealed the 3D genome alteration-associated dysregulation of DS-related genes,which facilitates understanding the pathogenesis of CAs.Together,our study contributes to deciphering the coding from 1D genomic variations to 3D genome architecture and the subsequent gene transcription outcomes in both health and disease.展开更多
The polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) model was established in fats and correlation between the expression of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) and cytokinesis with the MAPK signalling pathway in the rat ova...The polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) model was established in fats and correlation between the expression of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) and cytokinesis with the MAPK signalling pathway in the rat ovary was measured. The PCOS model in rats was established by dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA).Thirty sexually immature female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly and equally assigned to three groups:control group,PCOS group,and PCOS with high-fat diet (HFD) group.Serum hormones were assayed by radioimmunoassay (RIA).The ovaries'were immunohistochemically stained with MIF,and the expression of MIF,p-JNK and p-p38 was detected by Western blotting in ovaries.The serum testosterone level,LH concentration,LH/FSH ratio,fasting insulin level and HOMA IR index in the PCOS group (6.077±0.478,13.809±1.701,1.820±0.404,10.83±1.123 and 1.8692±0.1096)and PCOS with HFD group (6.075±0.439,14.075±1.927,1.779±0.277,10.20±1.377 and 1.7736±0.6851)were significantly higher than those in the control group (4.949±0.337, 2.458±0.509,1.239±0.038,9.53±0.548 and 1.5329±0.7363),but there was no significant difference between the PCOS group and PCOS with HFD group.The expression levels of MIF,p-JNK,and p-p38 in the PCOS group (0.4048±0.013,0.6233±0.093 and 0.7987±0.061)and PCOS withHFD group (0.1929±0.012,0.3346±0.103 and 0.3468±0.031)were obviously higher than those in control group (0.2492±0.013, 0.3271±0.093 and 0.3393±0.061),but no Significant difference was observed between PCOS group and PCOS with HFD group.It was suggested that MIF may participate in the pathogenesis of PCOS through the MAPK signalling pathway in PCOS rats induced by DHEA.展开更多
Parthenogenesis is one of the main, and most useful, methods to derive embryonic stem cells （ESCs）, which may be an important source ofhistocompatible cells and tissues for cell therapy. Here we describe the derivat...Parthenogenesis is one of the main, and most useful, methods to derive embryonic stem cells （ESCs）, which may be an important source ofhistocompatible cells and tissues for cell therapy. Here we describe the derivation and characterization of two ESC lines （hPES-1 and hPES-2） from in vitro developed blastocysts following parthenogenetic activation of human oocytes. Typical ESC morphology was seen, and the expression of ESC markers was as expected for alkaline phosphatase, octamer-binding transcription factor 4, stage-specific embryonic antigen 3, stage-specific embryonic antigen 4, TRA- 1-60, and TRA- 1-81, and there was absence of expression of negative markers such as stage-specific embryonic antigen 1. Expression of genes specific for different embryonic germ layers was detected from the embryoid bodies （EBs） of both hESC lines, suggesting their differentiation potential in vitro. However, in vivo, only hPES-1 formed teratoma consisting of all three embryonic germ layers （hPES-2 did not）. Interestingly, after continuous proliferation for more than 100 passages, hPES-1 cells still maintained a normal 46 XX karyotype; hPES-2 displayed abnormalities such as chromosome translocation after long term passages. Short Tandem Repeat （STR） results demonstrated that the hPES lines were genetic matches with the egg donors, and gene imprinting data confirmed the parthenogenetic origin of these ES cells. Genome-wide SNP analysis showed a pattern typical of parthenogenesis. All of these results demonstrated the feasibility to isolate and establish human parthenogenetic ESC lines, which provides an important tool for studying epigenetic effects in ESCs as well as for future therapeutic interventions in a clinical setting.展开更多
Excess weight and obesity have become a serious problem in adult men of reproductive age throughout the world. The purpose of this retrospective study was to assess the relationships between body mass index and sperm ...Excess weight and obesity have become a serious problem in adult men of reproductive age throughout the world. The purpose of this retrospective study was to assess the relationships between body mass index and sperm quality in subfertile couples in a Chinese Han population. Sperm analyses were performed and demographic data collected from 2384 male partners in subfertile couples who visited a reproductive medical center for treatment and preconception counseling. The subjects were classified into four groups according to their body mass index： underweight, normal, overweight, and obese. Of these subjects, 918 （38.3%） had a body mass index of 〉25.0 kg m-2. No significant differences were found between the four groups with respect to age, occupation, level of education, smoking status, alcohol use, duration of sexual abstinence, or the collection time of year for sperm. The results clearly indicated lower sperm quality （total sperm count, sperm concentration, motile sperm, relative amounts of type A motility, and progressive motility sperm [A ＋ B]） in overweight and obese participants than in those with normal body mass index. Normal sperm morphology and sperm volume showed no clear difference between the four groups. This study indicates that body mass index has a negative effect on sperm quality in men of subfertile couples in a Northern Chinese population. Further study should be performed to investigate the relationship between body mass index and sperm aualitv in a lar^er ooDulation.展开更多
We aimed to study the association between sperm DNA fragmentation and recurrent pregnancy loss(RPL)in the Chinese population via a retrospective observational study of Chinese couples who had experienced RPL between M...We aimed to study the association between sperm DNA fragmentation and recurrent pregnancy loss(RPL)in the Chinese population via a retrospective observational study of Chinese couples who had experienced RPL between May 2013 and August 2018.The study population included 461 men from couples with RPL and 411 men from a control group(couples with clinical pregnancy via in v/tro fertiIization owing to female causes).Routine semen analysis,sperm chromatin analysis,and microscopic(high-power)morphological analysis were performed using semen samples.Semen samples were assessed for volume,sperm count,and motility.The sperm DNA fragmentation index(DFI)was calculated,and the median DFI was obtained.Men were categorized as having normal(37.8%;DFI<15.0%),moderate(33.6%;15.0%<DFI<30.0%),or severe(28.6%;DFI A30.0%)DNA fragmentation levels.The percentage of men with severe DNA fragmentation was significantly higher in the RPL(42.3%)group than that in the control group(13.1%),whereas the percentage of men with normal levels of DNA fragmentation was significantly lower in the RPL group(22.8%)tha n that in the control group(54.7%).Subsequent analysis also dem on strated that the sperm DNA fragmentation rate had a moderate reverse correlation with the sperm progressive motility rate(r=-0.47,P<0.001)and the total motile sperm count(r=-0.31,P<0.001).We found a positive correlation between RPL and sperm DNA fragmentation.The results suggest that increased sperm DNA damage is associated with RPL.展开更多
We investigated serum folic acid （FA） levels in patients with erectile dysfunction （ED） and/or premature ejaculation （PE）. Fasting serum samples were obtained from 42 patients with ED, 36 with PE, 25 ED patients...We investigated serum folic acid （FA） levels in patients with erectile dysfunction （ED） and/or premature ejaculation （PE）. Fasting serum samples were obtained from 42 patients with ED, 36 with PE, 25 ED patients with PE, and 30 healthy men; the mean intravaginal ejaculation latency time （IELT） was measured during a 4 weeks baseline period. Levels of sex hormones （follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, total testosterone）, homocysteine （Hcys）, and FA were measured using chemiluminescent immunoassays. The sexual functions of PE patients and normal control men were evaluated using the Chinese Index of Premature Ejaculation （CIPE）. The abridged Intemational Index of Erectile Function-5 （IIEF-5） questionnaire was used to gauge erectile quality for ED patients and for normal controls. Serum FA concentrations were lower in ED （7.61 ~ 3.97 ng ml-1）, PE （9.37 ＋ 3.40 ng ml-1）, and ED/PE （8.84 ＋ 4.28 ng m1-1） patients than in healthy men （12.23 ~ 5.76 ng ml-z, P〈 0.05）. No significant differences in sex hormone levels were found between patients with sexual dysfunction and healthy controls （P 〉 0.05）. There were positive correlations between serum FA concentrations and ClPE scores （r= 0.530, P〈 0.01）, IIEF-5 scores （r= 0.589, P〈 0.01）, and IELT （r= 0.445, P〈 0.01）; negative correlations with Hcys concentrations （r= -0.487, P〈 0.01） were found in all participants. These findings showed a strong relationship between serum FA levels and sexual dysfunction, possibly due to an effect of FA on the metabolism of nitric oxide, Hcys, and 5-hydroxytryptamine.展开更多
Objective To analyze the effects of growth hormone （GH） supplementation during IVF/ ICSI-ET in Chinese patients who had prior IVF cycle with poor response to gonadot- ropin （Gn）. Methods Ovulation was stimulated i...Objective To analyze the effects of growth hormone （GH） supplementation during IVF/ ICSI-ET in Chinese patients who had prior IVF cycle with poor response to gonadot- ropin （Gn）. Methods Ovulation was stimulated in 389 consecutive patients who all had poor ovarian response, among them, 102 patients （GH cycle） received 4 IU GH and the other 287 patients （non-GH cycle） underwent IVF without GH. Fisher＇s exact test, Chi square test and Student＇s t-test were used to analyze IVF/ICSI-ET outcomes. Results After GH treatment, 102 patients had significantly more large- and medium- sized follicles, oocytes retrieved, 2 pronucleus oocytes, metaphase H stage （M^I） oocytes, and high-quality embryos than in previous cycles without GH. However, the number of embryos transferred, clinical pregnancy rate, transfer rate and biochemical pregnancy rate were not significantly different. Furthermore, the 102 patients given GH had significantly lower luteinizing hormone levels and biochemical pregnancy rates; thicker endometrium and more Gn administration days; and more large- and medium-sized follicles and M^I oocytes than 287 other patients undergoing IVF/ICSI-ET without GH. However, these groups did not differ significantly in clinical pregnancies, high-quality embryos, Mn oocytes, and embryo implantation rates. Conclusion GH may improve some IVF/ICSI-ET outcomes for women with poor ovarian response.展开更多
The relationship between apoptosis of granulosa cells and follicle development arrest in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) rats, and the contribution of tumor necrosis factor related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL)...The relationship between apoptosis of granulosa cells and follicle development arrest in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) rats, and the contribution of tumor necrosis factor related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL) in apoptosis of granulosa cells were explored. By using sodium prasterone sulfate rat PCOS model was induced. The apoptosis of granulosa cells in ovaries of rats was observed by TdT-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end-labeling (TUNEL), and the expression of TRAIL protein and mRNA in granulosa cells was detected by using immunhistochemical staining and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) respectively. The apoptotic rate and the expression of protein TRAIL in granulosa cells were significantly higher in antral follicles from the PCOS rats than in those from the control rats (P<0.01, P<0.05). There was no significant difference in apoptotic rate and the expression of TRAIL protein in granulosa cells of preantral follicles between the PCOS rats and the control rats (P>0.05). No apoptosis and the expression of TRAIL protein in granulosa cells of primordial follicles were found in the two groups. The expression of TRAIL mRNA was significantly stronger in granulosa cells from the PCOS rats than in those from the con- trol rats (P<0.01). It was suggested that the apoptotic rate in granulosa cells was significantly higher in antral follicle from the PCOS rats than in those from the control rats. TRAIL played a role in regu- lating the apoptosis of granulosa cells in PCOS rats.展开更多
Objective： We compare the cardioprotective effects of anesthetic preconditioning by propofol and/or isoflurane in rats with ischemia-reperfusion injury. Methods： Male adult Wistar rats were subjected to 60 min of an...Objective： We compare the cardioprotective effects of anesthetic preconditioning by propofol and/or isoflurane in rats with ischemia-reperfusion injury. Methods： Male adult Wistar rats were subjected to 60 min of anterior descending coronary artery occlusion followed by 120 rain of reperfusion. Before the long ischemia, anesthetics were administered twice for 10 min followed by 5 min washout. Isoflurane was inhaled at 1 MAC （0.016） in I group, whereas propofol was inhaled intravenously at 37.5 mg/（kg.h） in P group. A combination ofisoflurane and propofol was administered simultaneously in I＋P group. Results： In control （without anesthetic preconditioning, C group）, remarkable myocardial infarction and apoptosis accompanied by an increased level of cardiac troponin T were noted 120 min aider ischemia-reperfusion. As compared to those of control group, I and P groups had comparable cardioprotection. In addition, I＋P group shares with I and P groups the comparable cardioprotective effects in terms of myocardial infarction and cardiac troponin T elevation. Conclusion： A combination of isoflurane and propofol produced no additional cardioprotection.展开更多
Multiplex polymerase chain reaction （PCR） has been widely used to detect Y-chromosome micredeletions, which is one of the major causes of male infertility. Both the European Academy of Andrology （EAA） and the Euro...Multiplex polymerase chain reaction （PCR） has been widely used to detect Y-chromosome micredeletions, which is one of the major causes of male infertility. Both the European Academy of Andrology （EAA） and the European Molecular Genetics Quality Network （EMQN） have recommended the use of sY84 and sY86 markers for the detection of azoospermia factor a （AZFa） microdeletion during DNA testing for male infertility. In this study, a large-scale analysis of AZF microdeletion in a total of 630 Chinese males, including healthy semen donors （n=200）, infertile males with normal sperm count （n=226） and patients with either nonobstructive azoospermia or severe oligozoospermia （n=204）, was performed. A series of nine sequence-tagged site （STS） markers from the AZF region of the Y chromosome was used to detect microdeletions. All primers were designed based on the recommendations of the National Center for Biotechnology Information. An unusually high incidence （73/630, 11.6%） of sY84-absent but sY86-present genotypes was observed in the AZFa microdeletion screening. Sequencing the sY84-flanking region revealed a total of 73 patients with sY84-absent but sY86-present genotypes have a T-to-G transversion at the fifth base from the 5＇ end of the reverse sY84 primer. These prevalent false positives, which were not only observed in infertile men, but also observed in donors, resulted from a single-nucleotide polymorphism （SNP） named rs72609647 in the targeting sequence of the reverse sY84 primer. Our study suggests that a pre-screening of existence of rs72609647 polymorphism can prevent the frequent false positive results of AZFa microdeletions detection in the infertile Chinese males. Given the SNP rs72609647 was recently found in a deep sequencing of a Chinese individual, the current EAA and EMQN standards may need to be scrutinized among different populations to avoid the potential genetic variations in the primer binding sequences.展开更多
基金supported by the Jilin Science and Technology Development Talent Special Project,Nos.20240601086RC,23JQ08(all to ZH)YDZJ202502CXJD077+1 种基金JLARS-2025-0802-09YDZJ202501ZYTS706.
文摘Population aging is one of the common challenges in the current world.As people age,the body’s tissues including cells,and molecules inevitably degrade,and their functions gradually decline,causing various age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s disease,osteoporosis,low immunity,glucose and lipid metabolism disorders,and cardiovascular diseases.With the continuous increase of the elderly population,the pressure on the medical industry is increasing.To lower the burden on the medical industry and increase the average age of the elderly,it is vital to explore effective anti-aging materials.Ginseng Radix et Rhizoma(Renshen),as a traditional and precious Chinese medicinal herb,is known as the“king of all herbs”.It is famous for its effects of“tonifying Qi,restoring pulse”(helping with the generation of Qi(the fundamental,vital energy that continuously flows within the body)and the circulation of blood)and strengthening the body,nourishing the spleen and lungs,generating fluids and nourishing blood,calming the mind and improving intelligence.Recently,its anti-aging effect has received increasing attention from modern scientific research.This study summarizes the pharmacological effects of the main active ingredients of Renshen(ginsenosides,polysaccharides,etc.)on resisting aging,including preventing neuroaging,suppressing skin aging,mitigating ovarian aging,inhibiting osteoporosis and arthritis,enhancing the immune system of the elderly,protecting the cardiovascular system,resisting aging-induced fatigue and exerting the anti-tumor effects.Through network pharmacology and molecular docking,the anti-aging active ingredients of Renshen were screened,and the key targets and pathways of anti-aging active ingredients in Renshen were determined.Using network pharmacology,totally 106 drug targets and 3,479 disease targets were screened,and 79 common targets between aging and Renshen were identified.Three core targets were identified in the PPI network,including TNF,AKT1,and IL-1β.Molecular docking was used to obtain further verification.This study emphasizes the potential of Renshen as a source of anti-aging activity,which can be developed into a novel drug for the treatment of age-related diseases.
基金supported by grants from Natural Science Foundation of Jilin Province(No.23JQ08,No.YDZJ202502 CXJD077,No.JLARS-2025-0802-09 and No.YDZJ202501ZY TS706).
文摘As the aging population continues to grow,age-related health issues are becoming increasingly prominent,attracting widespread attention and concern from society.While research on the mechanisms of aging is relatively extensive,studies on the association between aging and related diseases remain limited.G.lucidum,a traditional medicinal fungus,has garnered significant attention due to its diverse bioactive properties.Recent studies have revealed that G.lucidum and its active components exhibit significant potential in anti-aging and regulating dysregulation of glucose and lipid metabolism.However,a comprehensive and detailed review of recent research findings has yet to be thoroughly explored.This paper summarizes and elucidates the latest advances in the pathological mechanisms of aging-related glucose and lipid metabolism disorders by retrieving data from databases such as X-mol and PubMed,provides a detailed account of the regulatory effects of G.lucidum’s primary active components on aging and lipid metabolism,and explores their potential mechanisms.Additionally,it discusses the application prospects of G.lucidum in the fields of anti-aging and metabolic regulation,aiming to provide a reference for research on aging-mediated lipid metabolism disorders and to lay a theoretical foundation for the further development and application of G.lucidum.
文摘The impact of prior cesarean section（CS） on the pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer（IVF-ET） was investigated. A retrospective analysis was performed on 144 patients with prior CS between January 2013 and December 2015. The pregnancy, delivery, and neonatal outcomes of patients who had previous CS delivery and received IVF-ET were analyzed. The control group comprised 166 patients who had only previous vaginal delivery（VD） and received IVF-ET during the same period. The results showed that the basal follicle stimulating hormone level, estradiol level on human chorionic gonadotropin（h CG） day, gonadotrophin dosage, duration of stimulation, retrieved oocytes, fertilization rate, high-quality embryo rate, multiple birth rate, abortion rate and ectopic pregnancy rate had no significant difference between the two groups（P〉0.05）. The pregnancy rate（40.28% vs. 54.22%） and implantation rate（24.01% vs. 34.67%） were significantly lower（P〈0.05）, and the ratio of embryo difficulty transfer（9/144 vs. 0/166） was significantly higher in CS group than in VD group. The risk of pernicious placenta previa and postpartum hemorrhage in twin deliveries was significantly increased in CS group as compared with that in VD group（P〈0.05）, and gestational age and neonatal birth weight were significantly reduced in twin deliveries as compared with singleton deliveries in both groups（P〈0.05）. It was suggested that the existence of CS scar may impact embryo implantation and clinical pregnancy outcome, and increase the difficulty of ET. We should limit the number of transfer embryos to avoid multiple pregnancies and strengthen gestational supervision in patients with cesarean scar.
基金from NHC Key Laboratory of Family Planning and Healthy/key laboratory of reproductive medicine of Hebei provincial(SZ-202006)Peking University International Hospital Research Funds(No.YN2019QN13).
文摘Melatonin,as a ubiquitous indoleamine hormone,is synthesized primarily by the pineal gland.It has diverse biological effects through quite complex mechanisms.More recently,studies have focused on the mechanism of melatonin in anti-reproductive toxicity/damage.Since melatonin possesses strong antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties,researchers have examined its potential role in protecting against male reproductive toxicity/damage,which may be induced by chemotherapy or environmental toxicants and can lead to male infertility.In this article,recent progress regarding the protective effects of melatonin on male reproductive toxicity/damage is reviewed.
文摘The clinical effects of acupuncture on idio pathic male infertility in sperm parameter and on therapeutic results in assiste d reproductive technology were investigated. 22 patients failed in intracytoplas mic sperm injection (ICSI) with idiopathic male infertility were treated with ac upuncture twice weekly for 8 weeks, followed by ICSI treatment again. The sperm concentration, motility, morphology, fertilization rates and embryo quality were observed. Quick sperm motility after acupuncture(18.3 %±9.6 %) was significa ntly improved as compared with that before treatment (11.0 %±7.5 %, P <0.01) . The normal sperm ratio was increased after acupuncture (21.1 %±10.4 % vs 16.2 %± 8.2 %, P <0.05). The fertilization rates after acupuncture (66.2 %) were obviously higher than that before treatment (40.2 %, P <0.01). There was no significant difference in sperm concentration and general sperm motility between before and after acupuncture. The embryo quality after acupuncture was improved , but the difference between them was not significant ( P >0.05). Acupuncture can improve sperm quality and fertilization rates in assisted reproductive techn ology.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.30570769)Funds of Health and Family Planning Commission of Hubei Province(No.JS2013009)the Fundamental Research Funds for Central Universities(No.2042014kf0120)
文摘The expression of Attractin mRNA and protein in testis and semen of human and male mice was investigated. Human testis and semen samples were all collected from Reproductive Center of Reumin Hospital, Wuhan University in December, 2012. Testis samples were collected from 7 cases of obstructive azoospermias when they were subjected to diagnosed testis biopsy, and 30 nor- mal human semen samples were obtained from those cases of semen analysis. Adult mice testis tis- sues were obtained from 10 2-month-old male BALB/c mice, and 60 male mice at different ages were classified into 10 groups （day 1, 5, 10, 15, 21, 28, 35, 42, 56, and 120 respectively, n=6 each）. The expression of Attractin mRNA and protein in testis was detected by RT-PCR and Western blotting re- spectively. Human semen samples were centrifuged into sperm plasma （SP） and sperm extract （SE）, and mice sperm samples were collected from the epididymis of 10 adult male BALB/c mice. Western blotting was used to determine the Attractin protein expression level. Attractin mRNA and protein were expressed in the testis of both patients with obstructive azoospermias and adult Bcl/B mice. Quantitative RT-PCR revealed that no Attractin mRNA was detectable in day 1 male BALB/c mice group. The Attractin mRNA and protein levels were low on the day 10, and increased with age until day 56. On the day 120, the expression levels of Attractin were decreased. As for human semen sam- pies, Attractin protein was expressed in both SP and SE, but didn＇t exist in samples from the epidi- dymis of male BALB/c mice. It was suggested that Attractin acted as a novel active substance and was involved in male reproduction in both human and BALB/c mice, but it exerted a different ex- pression profile in different mammal species.
基金Supported by Science and Technology Development Project of Jilin Province,No.YDZJ202201ZYTS060。
文摘BACKGROUND Heterotopic pregnancy(HP)is a rare condition in which both ectopic and intrauterine pregnancies occur.HP is uncommon after natural conception but has recently received more attention due to the widespread use of assisted reproductive techniques(ART)such as ovulation promotion therapy.CASE SUMMARY Here,we describe a case of HP that occurred after ART with concurrent tubal and intrauterine singleton pregnancies.This was treated successfully with surgery to preserve the intrauterine pregnancy,resulting in the birth of a low-weight premature infant.This case report aims to increase awareness of the possibility of HP during routine first-trimester ultrasound examinations,especially in pregnancies resulting from ART and even if multiple intrauterine pregnancies are present.CONCLUSION This case alerts us to the importance of comprehensive data collection during regular consultations.It is important for us to remind ourselves of the possibility of HP in all patients presenting after ART,especially in women with an established and stable intrauterine pregnancy that complain of constant abdominal discomfort and also in women with an unusually raised human chorionic gonadotropin level compared with simplex intrauterine pregnancy.This will allow symptomatic and timeous treatment of patients with better results.
文摘Objective:To investigate the influence of season on live birth and clinical pregnancy rates,as well as assisted reproductive technology(ART)outcomes,in the Hainan region.Methods:Patients were categorized into four groups based on the dates of artificial insemination and transplantation:spring,summer,autumn,or winter.The main outcome measures were clinical pregnancy rates and live birth rates.Secondary outcomes included body mass index(BMI),oocyte number,two pronuclei(2PN)cleavage rate,total gonadotropin(Gn)dosage and days,age,2PN fertilization rate,sperm concentration,sperm PR rate,anti-Müllerian hormone(AMH),and endometrial thickness.Outpatient semen quality indicators included sperm PR rate,total sperm count,sperm concentration,and total sperm motility.Results:This retrospective cohort study analyzed 2,016 artificial insemination cycles and 1,783 ovarian retrieval cycles from January 2017 to October 2022,and assessed the semen quality of 6,651 outpatients from May 2017 to October 2022.In artificial insemination cycles,sperm PR rate and clinical pregnancy rate were highest in winter,with a statistically significant difference between groups(P<0.05).Clinical pregnancy rate was influenced by both age and sperm PR rate(P<0.05).In ovarian retrieval cycles,the winter group had significantly higher clinical pregnancy,2PN fertilization,and 2PN cleavage rates than the other groups.The autumn group had higher live birth rates,though not significantly different.Additionally,winter months showed higher total sperm concentration and total sperm number compared to other seasons.Conclusion:Seasonality affected clinical pregnancy and live birth rates in artificial insemination cycles but not in ovarian retrieval cycles in the Hainan region.These findings suggest that while there is no need to choose a specific season for ovarian retrieval cycles,artificial insemination in winter may be preferable for patients.
基金supported by Natural Science Foundation of Jilin Province(20220101287JC)National Natural Science Foundation of China(31873003 and 31472158)Graduate Innovation Fund of Jilin University(2022140).
文摘Polycystic ovarian syndrome(PCOS)is the most principal reason for infertility in reproductive women,but no versatile treatment is feasible.Although trans-10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid(10H2DA)exhibits the anti-inflammatory,anti-cancerous and immunomodulatory properties,its role in improving PCOS remains elusive.This present study examined the effects of 10H2DA on the estrous cycle,ovarian morphology,reproductive hormone,glucose and insulin tolerances of PCOS mice,analyzed the binding between 10H2DA and free fatty acid receptor 4(FFAR4),and explored the regulation of 10H2DA on the c-Jun N-terminal kinase(JNK)/JUN(Jun proto-oncogene)signaling,cytosolic calcium ion(Ca^(2+)),endoplasmic reticulum(ER)Ca^(2+) release,mitochondrial Ca^(2+),mitochondrial function,autophagy,lysosomal acidification,mitochondrial fission,secretion function and apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells(GCs)using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay,flow cytometry,Western blotting,molecular docking,various fluorescent probes or plasmid,etc.The results showed that 10H2DA alleviated the symptom of PCOS mice through improving the secretion dysfunction of GCs and protecting GCs against apoptosis.After binding to FFAR4 and inactivation of JNK/JUN signaling,10H2DA restricted the release of ER Ca^(2+)through targeting ryanodine receptors(RYRs)which had been identified as the downstream targets of JUN,diminished cytosolic Ca^(2+) accumulation and prevented Ca^(2+) influx into mitochondria via adjusting the mitochondrial calcium uptake 1 and mitochondrial calcium uniporter.Concurrently,10H2DA kept the integrity of mitochondrial function through maintaining mitochondrial Ca2 homeostasis and suppressed the discharge of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species into the cytosol through blocking the mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening to avoid the lipid peroxidation and ameliorate the secretory function and apoptosis of GCs.Furthermore,1OH2DA rescued the defective autophagic flux along with the decline of autophagosomes and sequestosome 1 aggregation,restored the mitophagy flux with the abatement of mitophagosomes and Parkin recruitment to mitochondria,and accelerated the lysosomal degradation for depolarized mitochondria with the recovery of lysosomal acidification,whereas activation of JNK antagonized the amelioration of 10H2DA on above effectiveness,but this antagonism was counteracted by the attenuation of intracellular Ca^(2+).After application of 10H2DA,dynamin-related protein 1 phosphorylation was diminished and its recruitment to mitochondrial surface was impeded concomitant with the improvement of mitochondrial fragmentation,whereas inhibition of late-stage autophagy caused the failure of 10H2DA in improving mitochondrial fission.Collectively,10H2DA might ameliorate PCOS mice through modulating autophagy-mediated mitochondrial fission dependent on the maintenance of Ca^(2+) homeostasis between ER and mitochondria.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province(BE20197310 to J-M.L.)the National Key R&D Program of China(2021YFF0702500 to J-M.L.and A-M.S.,and the Start-up Funding of Scientific Researches for Postdoc in Guangzhou,Guangdong Province to H-F.L.).
文摘Being widespread across the globe,severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2)keeps evolving and generating new variants and continuously poses threat to public health,especially to the population with chronic comorbidities.Diabetes mellitus is one of high-risk factors for severe outcome of coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19).Establishment of animal models that parallel the clinical and pathological features of COVID-19 complicated with diabetes is thus highly essential.Here,in this study,we constructed leptin receptor gene knockout hamsters with the phenotype of diabetes mellitus(db/db),and revealed that the diabetic hamsters were more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 and its variants than wild-type hamsters.SARS-CoV-2 and its variants induced a stronger immune cytokine response in the lungs of diabetic hamsters than in wild-type hamsters.Comparative histopathology analyses also showed that infection of SARS-CoV-2 and the variants caused more severe lung tissue injury in diabetic hamsters,and may induce serious complications such as diabetic kidney disease and cardiac lesions.Our findings demonstrated that despite the decreased respiratory pathogenicity,the SARS-CoV-2 variants were still capable of impairing other organs such as kidney and heart in diabetic hamsters,suggesting that the risk of evolving SARS-CoV-2 variants to diabetic patients should never be neglected.This hamster model may help better understand the pathogenesis mechanism of severe COVID-19 in patients with diabetes.It will also aid in development and testing of effective therapeutics and prophylactic treatments against SARS-CoV-2 variants among these high-risk populations.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.32221005 to Gang Cao and 81900063 to He Long)the Natural Science Foundation of Hubei Province,China(Grant No.2022CFB180 to Zhijun Zhang).
文摘For chromosome abnormalities(CAs),such as Down syndrome(DS),the influence of genomic variations on chromosome conformation and gene transcription remains elusive.Based on the complete genomic sequences from the parents of a DS trisomy patient,we systematically delineated an atlas of parental-specific,haplotype-resolved single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs),copy number variations(CNVs),threedimensional(3D)genome architecture,and RNA expression profiles in the diencephalon of the DS patient.The integrated haplotype-resolved multi-omics analysis demonstrated that one-dimensional(1D)genomic variations including SNPs and CNVs in the DS patient are highly correlated with the alterations in the 3D genome organization and the subsequent changes in gene transcription.This correlation remains valid at the haplotype level.Moreover,we revealed the 3D genome alteration-associated dysregulation of DS-related genes,which facilitates understanding the pathogenesis of CAs.Together,our study contributes to deciphering the coding from 1D genomic variations to 3D genome architecture and the subsequent gene transcription outcomes in both health and disease.
基金This project was in part supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.30973196).
文摘The polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) model was established in fats and correlation between the expression of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) and cytokinesis with the MAPK signalling pathway in the rat ovary was measured. The PCOS model in rats was established by dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA).Thirty sexually immature female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly and equally assigned to three groups:control group,PCOS group,and PCOS with high-fat diet (HFD) group.Serum hormones were assayed by radioimmunoassay (RIA).The ovaries'were immunohistochemically stained with MIF,and the expression of MIF,p-JNK and p-p38 was detected by Western blotting in ovaries.The serum testosterone level,LH concentration,LH/FSH ratio,fasting insulin level and HOMA IR index in the PCOS group (6.077±0.478,13.809±1.701,1.820±0.404,10.83±1.123 and 1.8692±0.1096)and PCOS with HFD group (6.075±0.439,14.075±1.927,1.779±0.277,10.20±1.377 and 1.7736±0.6851)were significantly higher than those in the control group (4.949±0.337, 2.458±0.509,1.239±0.038,9.53±0.548 and 1.5329±0.7363),but there was no significant difference between the PCOS group and PCOS with HFD group.The expression levels of MIF,p-JNK,and p-p38 in the PCOS group (0.4048±0.013,0.6233±0.093 and 0.7987±0.061)and PCOS withHFD group (0.1929±0.012,0.3346±0.103 and 0.3468±0.031)were obviously higher than those in control group (0.2492±0.013, 0.3271±0.093 and 0.3393±0.061),but no Significant difference was observed between PCOS group and PCOS with HFD group.It was suggested that MIF may participate in the pathogenesis of PCOS through the MAPK signalling pathway in PCOS rats induced by DHEA.
文摘Parthenogenesis is one of the main, and most useful, methods to derive embryonic stem cells （ESCs）, which may be an important source ofhistocompatible cells and tissues for cell therapy. Here we describe the derivation and characterization of two ESC lines （hPES-1 and hPES-2） from in vitro developed blastocysts following parthenogenetic activation of human oocytes. Typical ESC morphology was seen, and the expression of ESC markers was as expected for alkaline phosphatase, octamer-binding transcription factor 4, stage-specific embryonic antigen 3, stage-specific embryonic antigen 4, TRA- 1-60, and TRA- 1-81, and there was absence of expression of negative markers such as stage-specific embryonic antigen 1. Expression of genes specific for different embryonic germ layers was detected from the embryoid bodies （EBs） of both hESC lines, suggesting their differentiation potential in vitro. However, in vivo, only hPES-1 formed teratoma consisting of all three embryonic germ layers （hPES-2 did not）. Interestingly, after continuous proliferation for more than 100 passages, hPES-1 cells still maintained a normal 46 XX karyotype; hPES-2 displayed abnormalities such as chromosome translocation after long term passages. Short Tandem Repeat （STR） results demonstrated that the hPES lines were genetic matches with the egg donors, and gene imprinting data confirmed the parthenogenetic origin of these ES cells. Genome-wide SNP analysis showed a pattern typical of parthenogenesis. All of these results demonstrated the feasibility to isolate and establish human parthenogenetic ESC lines, which provides an important tool for studying epigenetic effects in ESCs as well as for future therapeutic interventions in a clinical setting.
文摘Excess weight and obesity have become a serious problem in adult men of reproductive age throughout the world. The purpose of this retrospective study was to assess the relationships between body mass index and sperm quality in subfertile couples in a Chinese Han population. Sperm analyses were performed and demographic data collected from 2384 male partners in subfertile couples who visited a reproductive medical center for treatment and preconception counseling. The subjects were classified into four groups according to their body mass index： underweight, normal, overweight, and obese. Of these subjects, 918 （38.3%） had a body mass index of 〉25.0 kg m-2. No significant differences were found between the four groups with respect to age, occupation, level of education, smoking status, alcohol use, duration of sexual abstinence, or the collection time of year for sperm. The results clearly indicated lower sperm quality （total sperm count, sperm concentration, motile sperm, relative amounts of type A motility, and progressive motility sperm [A ＋ B]） in overweight and obese participants than in those with normal body mass index. Normal sperm morphology and sperm volume showed no clear difference between the four groups. This study indicates that body mass index has a negative effect on sperm quality in men of subfertile couples in a Northern Chinese population. Further study should be performed to investigate the relationship between body mass index and sperm aualitv in a lar^er ooDulation.
基金This work was supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No 81100469,81671517)the Scientific Research Foundation of Shanghai Municipal Commission of Health and Planning(201840060).
文摘We aimed to study the association between sperm DNA fragmentation and recurrent pregnancy loss(RPL)in the Chinese population via a retrospective observational study of Chinese couples who had experienced RPL between May 2013 and August 2018.The study population included 461 men from couples with RPL and 411 men from a control group(couples with clinical pregnancy via in v/tro fertiIization owing to female causes).Routine semen analysis,sperm chromatin analysis,and microscopic(high-power)morphological analysis were performed using semen samples.Semen samples were assessed for volume,sperm count,and motility.The sperm DNA fragmentation index(DFI)was calculated,and the median DFI was obtained.Men were categorized as having normal(37.8%;DFI<15.0%),moderate(33.6%;15.0%<DFI<30.0%),or severe(28.6%;DFI A30.0%)DNA fragmentation levels.The percentage of men with severe DNA fragmentation was significantly higher in the RPL(42.3%)group than that in the control group(13.1%),whereas the percentage of men with normal levels of DNA fragmentation was significantly lower in the RPL group(22.8%)tha n that in the control group(54.7%).Subsequent analysis also dem on strated that the sperm DNA fragmentation rate had a moderate reverse correlation with the sperm progressive motility rate(r=-0.47,P<0.001)and the total motile sperm count(r=-0.31,P<0.001).We found a positive correlation between RPL and sperm DNA fragmentation.The results suggest that increased sperm DNA damage is associated with RPL.
文摘We investigated serum folic acid （FA） levels in patients with erectile dysfunction （ED） and/or premature ejaculation （PE）. Fasting serum samples were obtained from 42 patients with ED, 36 with PE, 25 ED patients with PE, and 30 healthy men; the mean intravaginal ejaculation latency time （IELT） was measured during a 4 weeks baseline period. Levels of sex hormones （follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, total testosterone）, homocysteine （Hcys）, and FA were measured using chemiluminescent immunoassays. The sexual functions of PE patients and normal control men were evaluated using the Chinese Index of Premature Ejaculation （CIPE）. The abridged Intemational Index of Erectile Function-5 （IIEF-5） questionnaire was used to gauge erectile quality for ED patients and for normal controls. Serum FA concentrations were lower in ED （7.61 ~ 3.97 ng ml-1）, PE （9.37 ＋ 3.40 ng ml-1）, and ED/PE （8.84 ＋ 4.28 ng m1-1） patients than in healthy men （12.23 ~ 5.76 ng ml-z, P〈 0.05）. No significant differences in sex hormone levels were found between patients with sexual dysfunction and healthy controls （P 〉 0.05）. There were positive correlations between serum FA concentrations and ClPE scores （r= 0.530, P〈 0.01）, IIEF-5 scores （r= 0.589, P〈 0.01）, and IELT （r= 0.445, P〈 0.01）; negative correlations with Hcys concentrations （r= -0.487, P〈 0.01） were found in all participants. These findings showed a strong relationship between serum FA levels and sexual dysfunction, possibly due to an effect of FA on the metabolism of nitric oxide, Hcys, and 5-hydroxytryptamine.
文摘Objective To analyze the effects of growth hormone （GH） supplementation during IVF/ ICSI-ET in Chinese patients who had prior IVF cycle with poor response to gonadot- ropin （Gn）. Methods Ovulation was stimulated in 389 consecutive patients who all had poor ovarian response, among them, 102 patients （GH cycle） received 4 IU GH and the other 287 patients （non-GH cycle） underwent IVF without GH. Fisher＇s exact test, Chi square test and Student＇s t-test were used to analyze IVF/ICSI-ET outcomes. Results After GH treatment, 102 patients had significantly more large- and medium- sized follicles, oocytes retrieved, 2 pronucleus oocytes, metaphase H stage （M^I） oocytes, and high-quality embryos than in previous cycles without GH. However, the number of embryos transferred, clinical pregnancy rate, transfer rate and biochemical pregnancy rate were not significantly different. Furthermore, the 102 patients given GH had significantly lower luteinizing hormone levels and biochemical pregnancy rates; thicker endometrium and more Gn administration days; and more large- and medium-sized follicles and M^I oocytes than 287 other patients undergoing IVF/ICSI-ET without GH. However, these groups did not differ significantly in clinical pregnancies, high-quality embryos, Mn oocytes, and embryo implantation rates. Conclusion GH may improve some IVF/ICSI-ET outcomes for women with poor ovarian response.
文摘The relationship between apoptosis of granulosa cells and follicle development arrest in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) rats, and the contribution of tumor necrosis factor related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL) in apoptosis of granulosa cells were explored. By using sodium prasterone sulfate rat PCOS model was induced. The apoptosis of granulosa cells in ovaries of rats was observed by TdT-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end-labeling (TUNEL), and the expression of TRAIL protein and mRNA in granulosa cells was detected by using immunhistochemical staining and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) respectively. The apoptotic rate and the expression of protein TRAIL in granulosa cells were significantly higher in antral follicles from the PCOS rats than in those from the control rats (P<0.01, P<0.05). There was no significant difference in apoptotic rate and the expression of TRAIL protein in granulosa cells of preantral follicles between the PCOS rats and the control rats (P>0.05). No apoptosis and the expression of TRAIL protein in granulosa cells of primordial follicles were found in the two groups. The expression of TRAIL mRNA was significantly stronger in granulosa cells from the PCOS rats than in those from the con- trol rats (P<0.01). It was suggested that the apoptotic rate in granulosa cells was significantly higher in antral follicle from the PCOS rats than in those from the control rats. TRAIL played a role in regu- lating the apoptosis of granulosa cells in PCOS rats.
文摘Objective： We compare the cardioprotective effects of anesthetic preconditioning by propofol and/or isoflurane in rats with ischemia-reperfusion injury. Methods： Male adult Wistar rats were subjected to 60 min of anterior descending coronary artery occlusion followed by 120 rain of reperfusion. Before the long ischemia, anesthetics were administered twice for 10 min followed by 5 min washout. Isoflurane was inhaled at 1 MAC （0.016） in I group, whereas propofol was inhaled intravenously at 37.5 mg/（kg.h） in P group. A combination ofisoflurane and propofol was administered simultaneously in I＋P group. Results： In control （without anesthetic preconditioning, C group）, remarkable myocardial infarction and apoptosis accompanied by an increased level of cardiac troponin T were noted 120 min aider ischemia-reperfusion. As compared to those of control group, I and P groups had comparable cardioprotection. In addition, I＋P group shares with I and P groups the comparable cardioprotective effects in terms of myocardial infarction and cardiac troponin T elevation. Conclusion： A combination of isoflurane and propofol produced no additional cardioprotection.
基金ACKNOWLEDGMENTS This research was supported by the Major State Basic Research Development Program of China （973 Program, Noso 2006GB504005 and 2009CB941700）, the National Natural Science Foundation of China （No. 30872765） and the Basic Research Key Program of Shanghai （10]C1410800）. Shi-Wei Duan is sponsored partly by the K. C. Wong Magna Fund of Ningbo University. Wethank Dr Ching-Ling Chen for kind suggestions regarding English in drafting this paper.
文摘Multiplex polymerase chain reaction （PCR） has been widely used to detect Y-chromosome micredeletions, which is one of the major causes of male infertility. Both the European Academy of Andrology （EAA） and the European Molecular Genetics Quality Network （EMQN） have recommended the use of sY84 and sY86 markers for the detection of azoospermia factor a （AZFa） microdeletion during DNA testing for male infertility. In this study, a large-scale analysis of AZF microdeletion in a total of 630 Chinese males, including healthy semen donors （n=200）, infertile males with normal sperm count （n=226） and patients with either nonobstructive azoospermia or severe oligozoospermia （n=204）, was performed. A series of nine sequence-tagged site （STS） markers from the AZF region of the Y chromosome was used to detect microdeletions. All primers were designed based on the recommendations of the National Center for Biotechnology Information. An unusually high incidence （73/630, 11.6%） of sY84-absent but sY86-present genotypes was observed in the AZFa microdeletion screening. Sequencing the sY84-flanking region revealed a total of 73 patients with sY84-absent but sY86-present genotypes have a T-to-G transversion at the fifth base from the 5＇ end of the reverse sY84 primer. These prevalent false positives, which were not only observed in infertile men, but also observed in donors, resulted from a single-nucleotide polymorphism （SNP） named rs72609647 in the targeting sequence of the reverse sY84 primer. Our study suggests that a pre-screening of existence of rs72609647 polymorphism can prevent the frequent false positive results of AZFa microdeletions detection in the infertile Chinese males. Given the SNP rs72609647 was recently found in a deep sequencing of a Chinese individual, the current EAA and EMQN standards may need to be scrutinized among different populations to avoid the potential genetic variations in the primer binding sequences.
