Date unavailable
Spontaneous abortion, a prevalent complication of early pregnancy affecting approximately 15–25% of clinically recognized gestations, represents a major clinical and emotional challenge in reproductive medicine. Despite advances in maternal and fetal care, a significant proportion of cases remain idiopathic, underscoring the necessity for deeper exploration into the underlying biological mechanisms. Among the various contributing factors, genetic and epigenetic dysregulations have emerged as central players in the pathogenesis of pregnancy loss. This systematic review consolidates current knowledge on genetic and molecular biomarkers associated with spontaneous abortion, with a focus on insights gained through next-generation sequencing (NGS), array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH), and advanced bioinformatics tools. Chromosomal anomalies, including aneuploidies and structural rearrangements, are implicated in nearly half of all first-trimester miscarriages, highlighting their critical role in early embryonic viability. Beyond gross chromosomal defects, specific gene mutations and polymorphisms—such as those in NLRP7, KHDC3L, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) loci (e.g., rs1570360, rs3025039)—have been robustly linked to increased susceptibility to recurrent pregnancy loss, particularly through disruptions in embryogenesis, immune tolerance, and placental angiogenesis.
Date unavailable
Background: Sperm freeze-thaw is a crucial technique in assisted reproductive technologies (ART), but it induces oxidative stress in sperm. Melatonin, a powerful antioxidant, reduces oxidative stress by penetrating mitochondria and neutralizing free radicals. However, its protective role in the sperm of asthenozoospermic men during freeze-thaw remains poorly understood. This study examines the in vitro effects of melatonin on sperm quality in asthenozoospermic men during the freeze-thaw. Materials and Methods: Semen samples were collected from 30 asthenozoospermic men and divided into three groups: control, freeze group, and freeze + melatonin (1 mM) group. Various sperm parameters including mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), plasma membrane integrity, acrosomal reaction, and DNA fragmentation were assessed. Additionally, levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), reactive oxygen species (ROS), TNF-α, and IL-10 were estimated. The expression of apoptosis-related genes and proteins, including Bax and Bcl-2, was also analysed. Results: In the freeze group, compared to the control group, there was a significant decrease (P=0.004) in sperm parameters, MMP, plasma membrane and acrosome integrity, TAC, GSH, SOD, IL-10 levels, and Bcl-2 expression. Conversely, MDA, ROS, TNF-α, DNA fragmentation, and Bax expression significantly increased (P=0.010). However, in the freeze + melatonin group, all these parameters showed significant improvement compared to the freeze group (P=0.019). Conclusion: Melatonin enhances sperm quality during freeze-thaw by increased antioxidant defence, reducing inflammation via TNF-α/IL-10 modulation, inhibition apoptosis through Bax/Bcl-2 regulation, and preservation of acrosome integrity. These findings underscore the potential of melatonin as a cryoprotectant in ART.
Date unavailable
Background: Evidence on the associations between ambient air pollution exposure and biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, and live birth remains limited. Methods: We included 12,453 infertile participants who underwent fresh embryo transfer at a major assisted reproductive specialist hospital in Chengdu, China, between 2019 and 2022. Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), inhalable particulate matter (PM10), ozone (O3), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) was estimated for each participant’s residence location using a bilinear interpolation algorithm based on an air dispersion model on a 1 km x 1 km grid. The outcomes were biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, and live birth. The association of ambient air pollutants with outcomes was assessed using generalized linear modeling, respectively. Results: Among the 12,453 participants, 7,548 achieved biochemical pregnancy, 6,550 clinical pregnancy, and 5,601 live birth. Exposure to air pollutants during the period from 85 days before oocyte retrieval to oocyte retrieval (Period 4) was significantly associated with decreased odds of three assisted reproductive outcomes. For live birth, each 10 µg/m3 increase in PM2.5 was associated with a 3.1% decrease in the odds (OR: 0.969, 95% CI: 0.954, 0.984). Conclusion: Our results provide evidence that ambient air pollution exposure from 85 days before oocyte retrieval to oocyte retrieval is a significant environmental risk factor negatively affecting the biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, and live birth in IVF. This suggests that reducing exposure to air pollution during critical periods such as gamete development may improve reproductive outcomes.
Date unavailable
Background: As a prevalent sexually transmitted virus, human papillomavirus (HPV) has been hypothesized to contribute to unexplained male infertility, potentially affecting sperm quality. The current research looks at how HPV infection may affect sperm quality. Materials and Methods: Five databases were searched on August 24, 2024, including Web of Science, PubMed, the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, and EMBASE. Studies were included if they were reviews examining the relationship between sperm quality and HPV infection and published between 1996 and 2024. The PRISMA guidelines were followed for this study. The AMSTAR tool was used to assess the risk of bias. Evaluation of heterogeneity was done by the Q test and I² statistics. Pooled effect sizes were expressed as the standardized mean difference (SMD) with a 95% confidence interval. These were synthesized using fixed-effect or random-effects models as appropriate. Results: 16 reviews and meta-analyses were included.  Our umbrella review results showed that HPV infection in semen significantly reduced progressive motility (SMD = -0.48, 95% CI: -0.75, - 0.21), total motility (SMD = -0.59, 95% CI: -0.82, -0.35), sperm count (SMD = -0.27, 95% CI: -0.43, -0.10), viability (SMD = -0.38, 95% CI: -0.62, -0.14), morphology (SMD = -0.32, 95% CI: -0.53, -0.10). Conclusion: The findings indicate that HPV semen infection may be a significant factor in the reduction of sperm quality, as observed in HPV positive individuals relative to HPV negative individuals.
Date unavailable
Background: Group B Streptococcus (GBS; Streptococcus agalactiae) is a significant cause of invasive disease innewborns, often stemming from recto-vaginal colonization in pregnant women. The GBS capsular polysaccharide isa major virulence factor, and ten distinct serotypes (Ia, Ib, II–IX) have now been identified. Understanding the prevalenceof these serotypes in maternal colonization is crucial for vaccine development. This study aims to determine theserotype prevalence of GBS among Iranian pregnant women.Materials and Methods: A systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE (via PubMed), Embase, Web of Science,and the Iranian Databases (SID and Magiran) for studies published between January 2000 and March 2023. Studieswere included if they used standardized methods for GBS detection, including recto-vaginal specimen collection andidentification [selective media and molecular detection of GBS-specific gene (dltS and atr)]. Studies using nonstandardmethods (e.g., cervical, perianal, perirectal or perineal specimens), or focusing on non-maternal GBS colonizationwere excluded. Meta-analyses were performed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (Biostat V2.2) software toestimate serotype prevalence with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).Results: Of 330 articles identified, 14 studies met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analyses showed that 93.2% (95%CI: 90-95.5) of GBS isolates had identifiable serotypes. The predominant serotype was serotype III [39.6% (95% CI:31.6-48.2)], followed by serotypes II [16.8% (95% CI: 13.8-20.4)], V [14.1% (95% CI: 11.2-17.6)], VI [12.4 (95% CI:8.2-18.5)], Ia [11.7% (95 CI: 7.8-17.2)] and Ib [11.2 (95% CI: 6.9-17.6)].Conclusion: Serotype III is the most common GBS serotype among pregnant women in Iran, followed by serotypesII, V, VI, Ia, and Ib. These findings suggest that a pentavalent vaccine targeting these serotypes could be beneficial forpreventing GBS-related complications in Iranian pregnant women. However, further research is needed to evaluatethe efficacy and implementation of such a vaccine.
Date unavailable
Background: With increasing prevalence of male infertility in recent years, studies on therapeutic interventions leading to improvement in semen quality have been increased. There has been an increasing interest in recent years on the possible role of probiotics and synbiotics in improvement of male fertility especially idiopathic male infertility. This systematic review aimed assessing the effects of probiotics and/or synbiotics on male semen quality and discussed the results, mechanism and the future potential of these interventions in male reproductive health. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive systematic search of the major databases (PubMed, Google Scholar and Scopus) using the following search terms (“male infertility” or “semen” or “semen analysis” or “sperm” or “spermatozoa” and “probiotic” or “synbiotic”) without restriction on publication date and a hand search reference list was done between January and March 2025. Only original clinical and animal (rat, mice and dog) studies published in English were included. Observational, in vitro, book, review, editorial and conference articles were excluded. Results: A total of 296 articles were found, of which 5 randomized clinical studies and 5 animal studies met the inclusion criteria. The results of the included studies suggested that probiotics or synbiotics' significantly effects on semen parameters such as motility, morphology, and overall count through alleviating oxidative stress, modulating inflammation, regulating reproductive hormones, and restoring gut microbiota balance. Conclusion: The available evidence suggests that supplementation with probiotics and synbiotics holds promise for enhancing semen quality. However, the field is limited by small, heterogeneous study populations and short follow-up periods, necessitating larger, well-designed randomized controlled trials.
Date unavailable
Objective: Spermatogenesis is a tightly regulated process that involves an orchestrated transcriptional and translational event across the seminiferous epithelium. While individual regulators of this process have been studied, the network-level dynamics underlying the transition from SSCs to round spermatids (RSs) remain poorly understood. The dynamic molecular transitions between spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) and round spermatids (RSs) have not been fully characterized, particularly at the network level. Materials and Methods:  In this experimental study, we evaluated the gene expression dynamics from SSCs to RSs. We analyzed publicly available microarray datasets (GEO) comprising four biological replicates for RSs and three biological replicates for SSCs. Differentially expressed genes were identified and mapped onto protein–protein interaction networks, followed by prioritization of central regulators. Functional enrichment analysis was performed to characterize biological pathways. To have an additional demonstration, immunohistochemistry (IHC) for SOX9, N-Myc, VASA, SOX2, and DAZL was conducted to examine spatial and developmental protein expression across the seminiferous tubules. Results: A set of 3,598 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) was identified between spermatogonial stem cells and round spermatids. This analysis highlighted central genes, including Actb, Kras, Pten, Jun, Cdc42, and Gart, that act as central nodes in spermatogenic networks. These genes were associated with pathways governing cell cycle regulation, chromatin organization, and signal transduction, consistent with their established roles in germline development. Protein-level localization confirmed stage-specific expression patterns within the seminiferous tubules. SOX9 localized to Sertoli cells, N-Myc and VASA were activated in differentiating germ cells, DAZL was restricted to early progenitors, and SOX2 appeared only in late-stage subsets. Conclusion: By integrating transcriptomic profiling with network analysis and molecular experiments, this study highlights novel regulatory connections underlying the SSC–RS transition. These findings provide a systems-level framework for understanding male germline development and may inform future research into infertility and reproductive health.
Date unavailable
Background: The prognosis predictive value of Sperm Morphology (SM) in the infertility treatment of couples is still challenging.  Materials and Methods: In this retrospect study, inclusion criteria couples who were enrolled that underwent intrauterine insemination (IUI) procedure and these women had approved clinical pregnancy. Then, based on semen analysis the 6th edition of World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines were divided into two groups, such as: Borderline and Pathological SM. Finally, were evaluated the effect of the SM parameter on pregnancy complications and outcomes (live birth and age abortion rates) in two groups.Results: This retrospective study included 111 IUI cycles. Frequency of gestational complication was in the Borderline and Pathological SM groups, 8.3% and 17.3%, respectively and were not significant (P=0.255). Live birth rate, in the Borderline and Pathological SM groups, 91.7% and 69.3%, respectively, were significant (P= 0.009). Abortion rate, in the Borderline and Pathological SM groups, 2.8% and 26.7%, respectively, were significant (P=0.001).  Also, the results showed that the percentage of abortions in the first trimester in the Borderline and Pathological SM groups was 5.6% and 18.7%, respectively. According to the logistic regression, for each unit increases in the morphological variable, the chance incidence of abortion decreased to 0.6 (P= 0.017, OR: 0.614, CI: 0.412-0.916).Conclusion: The results of present study suggest that the Pathological SM is associated with increase first trimester abortion and SM can be as predictor of IUI outcome’s after clinical pregnancy. 
Date unavailable
Background: There are different etiologies of infertility. Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a leading cause of infertility among women, and the male factor accounts for about 50 % of the total number of infertile couples. As with various etiologies, various treatments are required. Choosing the most suitable procedure of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) for individuals is very important. Therefore, mathematical models are needed to estimate the success rate of ART for every individual and to determine which treatment suits the best for each couple.   Objective: In this study, we aim to present a new dynamic model that can predict the success rate of ART models for each based on the etiology of their infertility, lab tests, and clinical findings.   Materials and Methods: This research was a retrospective study that analyzed a total of 1374 data, a sample of 779 participants was selected from Yazd Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd, Iran, from April 2016 to February 2017. 502 participants were recruited and evaluated based on their Body Mass Index (BMI), Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels, the number of transferred embryos, and the etiology of infertility (PCOS, male factor, or both). For this purpose, the community is divided into eight classes: infertile susceptible couples, couples with the cause of infertility PCOS, male factor or both, couples with embryo quality A, B, and C, coupled with the positive βHCG test, couples with a positive result of clinical pregnancy, and fertile couples.   Results: Our dynamic models evaluate the success rate of ART in our subgroups considering all of the effective factors such as BMI, AMH level, number of transferred embryos, and the etiology of infertility. We have found that (BMI>30 kg/m2) and low AMH levels (<3.5ng/mL) indicate lower success rates. Moreover, Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) was more promising for all the underlying etiologies of male factor, PCOS, or both.    Conclusion: In conclusion, our new mathematical model is presented to investigate the dynamics and diagnose the cause of infertility in couples. It is shown that the equilibrium point free of disease is asymptotically stable. In this system, backward bifurcation occurs. When backward bifurcation occurs, we must reduce the primary reproduction number to less than one to eradicate the disease. In our system, we see that the factors that cause the reduction of the primary reproduction number are the factors used to eliminate infertility (the essential reproduction R_0 depends on the recovery rate in infertile couples with positive clinical pregnancy (ξ). Therefore, backward bifurcation depends on the possibility of recovery. As the rate of recovery increases, the primary reproduction number R_0 decrease and control a couple’s infertility. When male factors and treatment methods cause infertility are In vitro fertilization (IVF) and IVF&ICSI, we demonstrate that there is no Hopf bifurcation, i.e., no periodic orbit emerges or vanishes due to a change in the stability of a fixed point.
Date unavailable
Background: Azoospermia represents a severe impairment of male fertility. Sphingolipids regulate key cellular processes, including differentiation and apoptosis, with ceramide and sphingosine serving as pivotal signaling molecules. This study aimed to evaluate changes in specific sphingosine and ceramide levels in testicular tissue of immature, mature, and azoospermic mice. Methods: In this experimental study Twenty-four NMRI mice were divided into three groups: (I) immature (2 weeks old, n = 8), (II) normal mature (8 weeks old, n = 8), and (III) azoospermic (8 weeks old, n = 8) induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of busulfan (40 mg/kg). After histological examination, sphingosine and ceramide levels in the testicular tissue were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by appropriate post-hoc tests. Results: Significant differences in sphingosine and ceramide concentrations were observed among the groups. Sphingosine levels (μmol/L) were 20.15 (immature), 36.08 (normal mature), and 31.44 (azoospermic). The normal mature group showed significantly higher sphingosine than both immature and azoospermic groups (P<0.0001), while azoospermic mice also exceeded immature mice (P<0.0001). Cer14 levels were 8.58, 14.10, and 10.66 μmol/L in immature, normal mature, and azoospermic mice, respectively, with the normal mature group showing the highest values (P<0.0001 vs immature, P=0.0004 vs azoospermic). Similar trends were found for Cer18 and Cer20, where normal mature mice had significantly higher levels than other groups, and azoospermic mice exceeded immature mice in most comparisons. Cer16 showed a unique pattern, with normal mature levels (16.69 μmol/L) higher than immature (12.60 μmol/L) and azoospermic (9.58 μmol/L), while azoospermic mice had lower values than immature mice (P=0.0004). Conclusion: Alterations in specific sphingolipid metabolites are closely linked to spermatogenesis and may contribute to male infertility. Disruption of sphingosine and ceramide homeostasis could impair reproductive capacity, highlighting their potential as biomarkers or therapeutic targets in azoospermia.
Date unavailable
AbstractThe prevalence of gestational diabetes has risen alongside risk factors like obesity, family history of diabetes, and advanced maternal age. Research indicates that gestational diabetes can impact breastfeeding in mothers. This systematic review aims to explore the link between gestational diabetes and breastfeeding, along with factors influencing breastfeeding among women with gestational diabetes. This review encompassed articles examining the impact of gestational diabetes on breastfeeding. A comprehensive search in databases like Medline, PubMed, Scopus, and others was conducted using relevant keywords such as gestational diabetes, breastfeeding, blood sugar, and predisposing factors. Quantitative studies were evaluated using the STROBE tool, while qualitative studies were assessed with the CASP tool. Ultimately, 20 articles (17 quantitative and 3 qualitative) were included. Analysis of these studies revealed trends: nine quantitative studies noted a decline in exclusive breastfeeding continuation, five reported reduced breastfeeding at discharge, and three highlighted challenges in breastfeeding initiation and continuation. Some studies suggested similarities in breastfeeding continuation between affected and unaffected mothers. Factors contributing to reduced breastfeeding included maternal obesity, advanced age, insulin treatment, lack of knowledge about alternative foods, and concerns about diabetes transmission through breast milk. Education and social support were identified as crucial for sustaining exclusive breastfeeding among mothers with gestational diabetes. This review underscores a decrease in breastfeeding initiation and continuation among women with gestational diabetes compared to healthy counterparts. Supporting mothers with gestational diabetes through education, attitude modification, and specialized care is essential to address breastfeeding challenges. Collaborative efforts at policy, institutional, and individual levels are needed to promote breastfeeding among mothers with diabetes.
Date unavailable
Background: microRNAs (miRNAs) are small, endogenous, single-stranded RNA molecules that regulate gene expressionand play a role in various disease states. The let-7 family of miRNAs constitutes an important class of regulatorsfor diverse cellular functions ranging from cell proliferation, differentiation in spermatogenesis. The aim of studyreview the current state of correlation between miR-let-7b expression and sperm parameters, oxidative stress markers,and hormonal levels in Oligoasthenotratozoospermia (OAT) men.Materials and Methods: In the experimental study, RNA was extracted from the spermatozoa of 60 volunteers 30patients with OAT and 30 controls with normal fertility (NOR). After the separating sperms, the expression level ofmiR-let-7b was evaluated by real time-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The DNA fragmentationindex (DFI) was measured using TUNEL assay technique. Using World Health Organization (WHO, 2010) criteria,sperm parameters were evaluated. Oxidative stress markers, i.e., total antioxidant capacity (TAC), reactive oxidativestress (ROS), and malondialdehyde (MDA), as well as hormonal profile [luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulatinghormone (FSH), testosterone] were determined by ELISA kit.Results: miR-let-7b level was significantly higher in OAT patients than the control group (P=0.008). Correlationanalysis highlighted that sperm parameters (count, motility, morphology, r=-0.863, r=-0.723, r=0.875, respectively,P=0.001), TAC (r=-0.441, P=0.021), and hormonal profile (FSH; r=-0.335, P=0.027, LH; r=-0.246, P=0.034, andTestosterone; r=-0.106, P=0.036) were negatively correlated with miR-let-7b level, but positively correlated with thesperm DNA fragmentation (r=+0.691, P=0.011), ROS (r=0.376, P=0.031), and MDA (r=0.201, P=0.033).Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that miRNA can have a key role in spermatogenesis and might havea diagnostic and prognostic value in men infertility. Changes in miR- let-7b level in OAT patients may be associatedwith the susceptibility and progression of infertility.
Date unavailable
Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) are among the most effective infertility treatment 12 strategies, which may be challenged in the case of preimplantation embryonic developmental 13 arrest (EDA). This review aims to elucidate the characteristics of arrested embryos and provide 14 an overview of the factors contributing to developmental arrest, along with potential strategies 15 to mitigate this issue. A comprehensive literature review was conducted using the databases 16 Google Scholar and PubMed up to 2025, with relevant keywords related to the topic for article 17 identification. 18Achieving successful reproduction requires precise regulation of fertilization and early 19 embryonic development processes. This early phase of development is influenced by a complex 20 interplay of internal and external factors, even minor alterations in which can result in 21 developmental arrest. Preimplantation embryonic arrest (PREMBA) occurs in two forms: 22 temporary and permanent. Arrested in vitro fertilization (IVF) embryos can be divided into 23 three categories: Type I, arrest before the four-cell stage; Type II, arrest between the four- and 24 eight-cell stages; and Type III, arrest from the early to late morula stages. Various factors can 25 induce PREMBA; notably, genetic alterations during embryogenesis can impair development. 26 Additionally, laboratory conditions, including embryo culture media and incubation 27 parameters, play a critical role in ensuring proper embryonic growth. Despite the application of 28 ART methods, challenges persist regarding embryonic arrest prior to implantation. Our current 29 understanding of the underlying mechanisms and effective interventions remains limited. 30 Therefore, this review seeks to provide a comprehensive overview of the etiology of embryonic 31 arrest and explore potential approaches to enhance ART outcomes, thereby addressing existing 32 knowledge gaps and informing future research.
Date unavailable
Background: Infertility is a multifaceted medical and social issue involving complex mechanisms. Environmental factors and genetic profiles were studied in the field of infertility to predict the etiology of this condition. Materials and Methods: This study is an experimental study. We have investigated the role of the genetic profile of the BRCA1 in the Wister rat model to predict its effect on the fertility profile of these rats by inducing mammary gland toxicity using 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA). Moreover, the combination of DMBA and trace elements (Cd, Zn, and Co) was studied. The rats were studied for 20 weeks, then the serum of each rat was analyzed for malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), and catalase (CAT). The mammary gland tissues were run through immunohistochemical analyses for BRCA1 protein and screened for apoptosis and necrosis estimates. Results: A combination of Cd or Co with the DMBA has shown further significant change in the levels of MDA, SOD, GSH, and CAT. However, Zn/DMBA-treated rats have shown a slight improvement in the redox balance, as evidenced by non-significant differences in the levels of SOD and CAT compared to the control. In contrast, MDA levels were significantly higher, while GSH levels were significantly lower in these rats. Co/DMBA-treated rats have shown the highest values of apoptosis and necrosis in the mammary gland tissues. The lowest fertility (33.33% of fertile rats) was observed in Cd/DMBA-treated rats, corresponding to the higher oxidative stress status in this study. Conclusion: Therefore, toxicity with Cd can drive infertility in rats who express a deterioration in the mammary gland, due to the expression of BRCA1.
Date unavailable
Background: High-risk pregnancies, due to the need for special care and medical risks, can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and even depression in the spouses of pregnant women. This study aimed to compare symptoms of depression and anxiety in the spouses of women with high-risk and low-risk pregnancies.Materials and Methods: This case-control study was conducted using a case-control design. The study population included the spouses of women with high-risk and low-risk pregnancies who entered in the Babol Pregnancy Mental Health Registry. A purposeful sampling method was used, with 160 participants (80 in each group) selected for the study. Two groups were matched for age, education, job, and history of having psychiatric disorders. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire and the Brief Symptom Index (BSI-18), and data analysis was performed using independent t-tests and multivariate logistic regression.Results: The frequency of depression (66.3 vs. 51.2%), anxiety (65.0 vs. 33.8%), and psychological distress (48.8 vs. 31.3%) was significantly higher in the spouses of women with high-risk pregnancies compared to those with low-risk pregnancies. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the factors of high-risk pregnancy (B=0.195, 95% confidence interval (Cl)=[0.300-3.142], P=0.018) and a history of previous high-risk pregnancies (B=0.214, 95% Cl=[0.559-4.107], P=0.010) were significant predictors of depression in the spouses of women with high-risk pregnancies. Additionally, educational level (B=-0.185, 95% Cl=[0.258-3.278], P=0.022) and high-risk pregnancy status (B=0.293, 95% Cl=[1.295-4.240], P<0.001) were identified as predictors of anxiety in the spouses.Conclusion: High-risk pregnancy is an important factor in increasing the prevalence of depression and anxiety in the husbands of pregnant women. These findings emphasize the importance of providing supportive interventions and psychological counseling for spouses alongside pregnant women with high-risk pregnancies.
Date unavailable
Background: The primary objective of this study was to develop an artificial ovary made of polylactic acid (PLA) material, which could potentially be used for fertility preservation. This scaffold was used to carry UCMSCs for xenotransplantation to study follicular growth, viability, and angiogenesis.Materials and Methods: The experimental study involved transplanting human ovarian cortical pieces into 3D-printed baskets, with or without human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UCMSCs). Four groups were considered as control: vitrified-warmed ovarian tissue (OT), OT transplantation without 3D-printed baskets without UCMSCs, OT+D; OT transplantation with 3D-printed baskets and without UCMSCs, and OT+D+C; OT transplantation with 3D-printed baskets and UCMSCs. Eighteen rats were divided into three transplantation groups, with grafts implanted into their back muscles. After one week, comparisons were made between OT, OT+D, and OT+D+C with control groups. Histological evaluations and gene expression analyses, including CX37, CX43, KL, GDF9, and VEGF, were conducted to evaluate factors such as angiogenesis, cell proliferation, and follicle development.Results: The results revealed that OT+D had the highest follicular growth (99.3%) and transition rate (74.08%). OT+D+C indicated increased follicular survival, reduced mortality (P<0.0001), and a higher percentage of primordial follicles (59.1%) compared to OT and OT+D groups. UCMSCs’ paracrine secretions likely preserved the follicular reserve. Additionally, OT+D+C exhibited significantly increased blood vessel number and diameter (P<0.0001) compared to other groups.Conclusion: This study underscores the significance of utilizing a three-dimensional basket scaffold to enhance the development of ovarian follicles and facilitate angiogenesis. The integration of stem cells with the scaffold demonstrated a noteworthy synergistic effect, resulting in improved preservation and viability of the follicles and Reduced fibrosis. These findings illuminate the promising potential of scaffold-based strategies in advancing reproductive therapies and tissue engineering, thereby offering prospects for innovative treatments in the future.
Date unavailable
Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may extend to cognitive impairments. This preclinical and experimentalstudy investigates the physiological effects of PCOS on neurogenesis and cognitive function, emphasizing thepotential benefits of lifestyle modifications and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) interventions. Theproposed study covers the synergistic effects of swimming and soybean supplementation on genetic networks (mRNA-lncRNAs) in the context of inflammation, oxidative stress, and cognitive impairment corresponding to PCOS.Materials and Methods: In this bioinformatic and experimental study, the mice were categorized into five groups:the control, the polycystic group [mice were orally administered 0.5 mg/kg of letrozole for 6 weeks then received 45%high-fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks], the polycystic group with swimming training (swimming for 5 days a week for 8weeks), the polycystic group with soy supplement consumption (150 mg/kg), the polycystic group that received bothswimming exercise and soy supplement intake. Gene expression was quantified using the real-time polymerase chainreaction (PCR) approach. mRNAs and lncRNAs were identified as potential diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers usinga bioinformatics approach. Computational modeling technique is used to predict small molecules’ binding affinityand orientation to a target protein.Results: Swimming exercise combined with soy isoflavone supplementation improved cognitive outcomes and neurogenesisin PCOS mice through upregulation of neurogenesis-related genes and restoration of hormonal balance,suggesting potential therapeutic benefits for PCOS-associated cognitive dysfunction. The observed increases in theexpression of neurogenesis-related genes and improvements in hormonal balance suggest that these interventions maymitigate some of the cognitive impairments associated with PCOS.Conclusion: The findings suggest that complementary and alternative medicine approaches offer therapeutic benefitsfor symptom mitigation and systemic health improvement in PCOS management.
Date unavailable
Background: Over the past few decades, a marked decline in human semen quality has been observed, with evidence suggesting that dietary factors may account for 50–60% of this decline. The present randomized clinical trial aimed to evaluate the effects of a Fertility Diet (FD) on sperm parameters in infertile men.Materials and Methods: Seventy infertile men were randomly assigned to two groups: the intervention group, which followed FD, and the control group, which adhered to a Healthy Diet (HD) for 12 weeks. Anthropometric measurements, semen analysis, DNA fragmentation index (DFI), malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and sex hormone profiles were assessed before and after the intervention. Dietary intake was monitored throughout the study.Results: Compared to the HD group, the FD group indicated significant improvements in total sperm count (p = 0.016), sperm concentration (p = 0.003), total motility (p = 0.024), progressive motility (p = 0.048), and normal morphology (p = 0.023). Participants in the FD group showed an increase in the intake of total fat, monounsaturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, omega-3 fatty acids and fiber during the intervention (p < 0.05). Additionally, the FD group consumed higher amounts of key fertility-related micronutrients including magnesium, calcium, phosphorous, potassium, zinc, selenium, vitamin C, and lycopene. Notably, a significant reduction in DFI (p < 0.010) and MDA (p < 0.001) was also observed in the FD group compared to the HD group. No significant differences were found in sex hormone levels or anthropometric parameters between the groups.Conclusion: These findings suggest the potential of a Fertility Diet to improve sperm parameters and reduce DFI and oxidative stress. However, further studies with larger sample sizes and longer duration are needed to confirm these effects.
Date unavailable
Advances in early cancer diagnosis and treatment have significantly improved survival rates. However, as awareness grows about the adverse effects of cytotoxic therapies on ovarian function and fertility, an increasing number of patients are seeking fertility preservation before undergoing anti-cancer treatments. Embryo cryopreservation remains the gold standard for fertility preservation when there is sufficient time for ovarian stimulation and oocyte retrieval. For single women, oocyte freezing offers a viable alternative, allowing them to preserve their eggs for future use. For prepubertal girls and women who cannot delay treatment, ovarian tissue cryopreservation is currently the only feasible method of fertility preservation. Between 2000 to 2010, researchers at Royan Institute conducted a wide range of investigations on ovarian tissue cryopreservation, providing a structured and evidence-based fertility preservation protocol for cancer patients candidates for this service. In 2010, the Royan Institute established the Royan Human Ovarian Tissue Bank (OTB) as a subgroup of the Embryology Department. After obtaining ISO 9001:2015 certification, the OTB was officially transferred to the Royan Infertility Clinic. This article presents the Royan OTB guidelines for cryopreserving ovarian tissue in prepubertal girls and women with cancer, described step by step.
Date unavailable
Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder impacting fertility. Controlledovarian stimulation (COS) is a crucial step during in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedure to enhance oocyte retrievaland embryo generation. This study aims to compare the efficacy of the stop gonadotropin hormone-releasing hormoneagonist (GnRH-agonist)/GnRH-antagonist protocol versus the conventional GnRH antagonist protocol in PCOS patientsundergoing IVF.Materials and Methods: A pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted from March to December 2023 at Vali-E-Asr Hospital, Tehran. Forty PCOS patients were randomized into two groups: stop GnRH-agonist/GnRH-antagonist(n=20) and conventional GnRH antagonist (n=20). Participants’ demographics, hormonal profiles, and treatmentoutcomes were recorded. The primary outcome was the number of mature oocytes retrieved; secondary outcomesincluded the number of follicles >12 mm on human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) administration day and ovarianhyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) incidence. Data was analyzed using SPSS 21.0, employing t tests, Mann-Whitneytests, and Chi-square tests as appropriate.Results: Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. The conventional protocol group had significantlymore 16-18 mm follicles but no differences in total oocytes retrieved, metaphase 1 and 2 oocytes, or degenerated oocytes.Stimulation duration was shorter in the conventional group. No significant differences were observed in OHSSincidence or total gonadotropin dose.Conclusion: The Stop GnRH-agonist/GnRH-antagonist protocol is a viable alternative for PCOS patients, offeringcomparable oocyte yields and safety profiles to the conventional GnRH antagonist protocol. Larger studies are neededto confirm these findings and evaluate long-term outcomes such as pregnancy and live birth rates (registration number:IRCT20180409039247N10).