A patchwork of reproductive health regulations across Europe hinders access to medically assisted reproduction (MAR) treatments. Many patients resort to seeking care abroad due to limited availability and reimbursement policies.
The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology and the International Federation of Fertility Societies are concerned about the lack of uniform clinical standards between countries, putting patients' safety at risk. The societies are developing a 'Code of Practice on Cross Border Reproductive Care' to protect and reassure pat...
Two studies found that smoking during early pregnancy reduces germ cells and somatic cells in developing embryos, potentially influencing future fertility. This may contribute to the decline in fertility rates observed in recent years.
Researchers have created a human testicular tissue model to study testicular germ cell cancer (TGCC) origins. The model, developed by Dr. Rod Mitchell and Professor Richard Sharpe, enables testing of environmental chemicals' impact on fetal development and may help identify treatments for disorders like Frasier or Denys-Drash syndrome.
The MRC refused to fund IVF research that led to the birth of Louise Brown, citing concerns about embryo quality and patient safety. The researchers argue for more complex reasons, including strategic errors by Edwards and Steptoe in their funding application.
A new preimplantation genetic screening method using micro-array technology has been shown to accurately detect chromosomal abnormalities in 89% of cases. This improvement in detection rate is expected to increase the success rates of IVF treatments for women of advanced maternal age.
A review of studies on IVM fertility treatment suggests that babies born after IVM may be more likely to have larger offspring syndrome and experience difficult births requiring caesareans. The authors urge caution in the use of IVM until further studies can clarify their findings.
Researchers have found vitrified eggs produce on-going pregnancies with similar success as freshly harvested oocytes. The study's results will improve egg banking practices, enabling cancer patients and others at risk of infertility to access fertility treatment more safely.
A new non-surgical treatment for uterine fibroids, ulipristal acetate (UPA), has shown promising results in reducing total fibroid volume and menstrual bleeding. Patients taking UPA experienced improved quality of life, fertility, and reduced symptoms.
The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology reports that Europe leads the world in Assisted Reproduction Technology (ART), with over 479,000 treatment cycles in 2007. The number of ART treatments has grown by 5-10% per annum over the last 5 years.
Scientists have discovered that ovarian transplants from young mice can restore fertility and increase lifespan in aging female mice. The procedure, which has been performed with limited success in women so far, may also have a rejuvenating effect on their behavior. Researchers believe that similar procedures could be used to preserve ...
Researchers have developed a simple, non-invasive blood test that can detect chromosomal abnormalities in the developing fetus using molecular genetic probes. The test has already shown promise in identifying DNA from the Y chromosome and is being investigated for detecting trisomy 21 (Down's syndrome) and other conditions.
Research found that mothers who drank 4.5 or more drinks a week during pregnancy had sons with lower sperm concentrations, averaging around 25 million per milliliter. The study also discovered an association between prenatal alcohol exposure and semen volume and total sperm count.
A study found that women with a genetic variation in their hormone receptor are more likely to have a poor response to FSH during fertility treatment. The abnormal receptor impairs the function of normal receptors, resulting in fewer oocytes produced.
A study by Human Assisted Reproduction Ireland found that there is negligible risk of seroconversion in ART patients, making repeat viral screening unjustifiable. This could result in significant financial costs for couples undergoing treatment.
Research at the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology found that overweight women undergoing IVF or ICSI are twice as likely to miscarry. Women with normal weight have a significantly lower miscarriage rate, highlighting the importance of pre-conception counseling for those using ART.
Two studies found that younger women prioritize career success over motherhood, while older women seek egg freezing as a means to delay childbearing until finding the right partner. Egg freezing has become more accessible, but accurate information is still lacking, highlighting the need for targeted counselling and support.
The study found substantial differences between women with endometriosis and controls, with lost work productivity averaging ten hours per week. Quality of life was also significantly impaired, except for physical functioning and mental health.
A new study by Dr. Fahimeh Ramezani Tehrani predicts the age when women will hit menopause using a simple blood test. The researchers found that the accuracy of the test is high, with an average difference between predicted and actual ages of just a third of a year.
Researchers at Catholic University of Rome have developed a promising new therapy against systemic sclerosis (scleroderma), an autoimmune disease characterized by skin hardening and organ dysfunction. The treatment targets the immune system's B-cells, reducing side effects associated with traditional immunosuppressive therapies.
A study by the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology found that IVF children generate significant fiscal implications for governments, with a discounted net tax revenue of approximately €127,000. This represents an 8-fold return on investment for governments.
Researchers found that a small amount of cohesin is needed for cell division and DNA repair, while higher concentrations are necessary for other processes like chromosome condensation. This discovery helps explain the causes of Cornelia de Lange and Roberts Syndrome.
Joseph W. Sanger, T. Vidhya Persaud, and Richard B. Marchase received the highest honors from the American Association for Anatomy for their unique contributions to anatomical sciences. The awards recognize exceptional service and meritorious achievements in education, research, and scientific advancements.
Researchers find random gene expression changes during early differentiation, but stability increases by a factor of 100 after nine generations. This discovery sheds light on the mechanisms behind epigenetic inheritance and its impact on stem cell research.
A study of 70,709 American nurses found that consuming long-chain Omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of endometriosis by 22%, while eating trans fats increases the risk by 48%. Dietary changes, such as reducing trans fats and increasing Omega-3 oils, may be a useful strategy for preventing or alleviating endometriosis symptoms.
The American Thoracic Society has released new guidelines for CCHS, citing crucial discoveries linking the condition to mutations in the PHOX2B gene. Affected individuals require fastidious medical supervision to attain optimal quality of life, and early identification and intervention are critical.
A woman gave birth to two healthy girls, Aviaja and Lucca, in 2007 and 2008, respectively, after receiving fertility treatment following an ovarian transplant. The breakthrough case report supports the use of cryopreservation of ovarian tissue as a valid method for fertility preservation.
A recent study published in Human Reproduction found that women who conceive through IVF or ICSI have a significantly higher risk of stillbirth compared to those who conceive spontaneously. The study analyzed data from over 20,000 singleton pregnancies and found a four-fold increased risk of stillbirths among women who had IVF/ICSI.
Women with severe obesity may receive assisted reproduction treatment if they can achieve significant weight loss. Smoking is also a concern, as it reduces fertility and increases the risk of miscarriage. The ESHRE Task Force on Ethics and Law suggests balancing patient autonomy with societal responsibilities and future child safety.
A recent study has found that embryo biopsy does not increase the risk of major malformations or health problems in babies born from singleton pregnancies after preimplantation genetic diagnosis and screening. However, multiple pregnancies associated with PGD/PGS showed higher perinatal death rates compared to ICSI children.
Researchers found female mice created from two mothers but no father lived significantly longer than normal mice, living up to a third longer on average. The findings suggest that sperm genes may have a detrimental effect on lifespan in mammals.
Researchers in Belgium successfully differentiated human embryonic stem cells (hESC) into major cell types of lung epithelial tissue using an air-liquid interface. The technique could provide an alternative to lung transplants for patients with chronic pulmonary disease and cystic fibrosis.
Endometriosis affects an estimated 1 in 10 women during their reproductive years, causing severe symptoms, infertility, and chronic pain. The EndoCost study aims to assess the societal costs of endometriosis and identify areas for improvement.
Researchers have discovered a quick and accurate way to diagnose endometriosis by testing for nerve fibres in endometrial biopsies. The test shows high specificity and sensitivity, potentially reducing lengthy delays in diagnosis and improving treatment planning.
Researchers studied microglial cells in mouse retina to understand their response to neurodegenerative processes. Their work may aid in the development of therapeutic strategies for Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases.
Childhood cancer survivors are at greater risk of premature birth and postpartum haemorrhages, highlighting the need for close monitoring during pregnancy. Researchers also warn that fertility may be compromised due to radiation treatment and chemotherapy.
Researchers found 128 genes with varying expression levels in early clinical pregnancy compared to non-pregnant state. Gene expressions related to angiogenesis, vascular endothelial growth factor, and pyruvate metabolism were over-represented.
A recent study found that nearly all human embryos produced through IVF have chromosomal problems, rendering current preimplantation genetic screening techniques useless. Chromosomal instability is likely responsible for low fertility rates and high abortion rates, and could impact spontaneous pregnancies as well.
A study published in Human Reproduction found that women with endometriosis are at a higher risk of premature birth, C-sections, and other pregnancy complications. The researchers also found that women with endometriosis were more likely to have difficulty conceiving and required assisted reproduction technology.
A recent study found that women with diminished ovarian reserve are at increased risk of trisomic pregnancy, regardless of age. The study analyzed data from 19,840 women undergoing fertility treatment in the Netherlands and found a history of ovarian surgery, low egg retrieval, or menopausal status to significantly increase trisomy risk.
A new embryo test can detect both genetic and chromosomal abnormalities, offering a faster and cheaper alternative to current fertility treatments. The test, known as genome-wide karyomapping, can identify diseases caused by specific gene mutations and aneuploidy at the same time.
An Australian study found that daily sex for seven days reduces sperm DNA damage and improves fertility in men with high DNA fragmentation. Men who ejaculated daily showed a significant decrease in DNA damage and an increase in good-quality sperm.
A study of 15 women with cystic fibrosis found that assisted reproductive technology (ART) was a safe and successful option for them to become pregnant. The researchers achieved 17 pregnancies in 13 of the 15 women, resulting in 12 live births.
Researchers have found that transferring a single embryo at a time after preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) and freezing at the blastocyst stage results in comparable pregnancy rates to those for non-biopsied embryos. This approach can reduce multiple pregnancies and their associated complications.
Researchers found that mothers with elevated blood pressure during pregnancy increased the risk of PCOS in their daughters, while a family history of cardiovascular disease in either parent was also linked to an increased risk. Brothers of women with PCOS are also at greater risk of developing insulin resistance or diabetes.
A study found that babies born from frozen embryos fertilized via ICSI or standard IVF treatment have similar outcomes, including Apgar scores and birth weights. However, there was a slightly higher rate of malformations in medicated cycles.
Researchers found that human female embryos inactivate one X chromosome prior to implantation, which may affect laboratory culture conditions and embryo survival. This process is thought to have remained unchanged throughout evolution and has implications for human embryonic stem cell research.
Research suggests that triathletes who undertake high levels of cycling training have worse sperm morphology and quality. The study found a statistically adverse correlation between sperm morphology and the volume of cycling training undertaken per week.
A study found that over 20,000 European patients travel across borders for fertility treatment annually, citing quality concerns and legal restrictions. The majority of respondents were seeking assisted reproduction treatment, with countries like Italy, Germany, and France having the highest number of cross-border patients.
A new genetic test has increased pregnancy rates for older women undergoing IVF by 20% compared to 10% without the test. The test examines chromosomes in human eggs after fertilization and identifies healthy embryos, reducing chromosomal abnormalities and congenital issues.
A new ovarian transplantation technique has successfully restored fertility in two patients who had lost their ovaries due to cancer treatment. The two-step procedure involves grafting small pieces of frozen ovarian tissue before the main transplant, allowing for faster recovery of ovarian function and improved response to stimulation.
Researchers found that ultra-fast freezing of ovarian tissue can achieve the same success rate as fresh tissue in transplants, with a viability rate of 91.9% compared to 88.9%. The cortical grafting technique allows for simpler procedure with equally successful results, enabling women to have children later in life.
A comprehensive review of 75 studies found that complications in early pregnancy can increase the risk of preterm or very preterm delivery, placenta praevia, and congenital malformations. Identifying these risks allows clinicians to provide targeted monitoring and care for high-risk patients.
The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) has launched an international study to investigate the efficacy of polar body screening in preimplantation genetic testing. The study aims to determine whether this novel method offers a possible solution for improving IVF treatment outcomes.
Scientists found that adult muscle stem cells can regenerate muscles after injury without the two key embryonic muscle cell genes Pax3 and Pax7. This discovery challenges current research on muscular dystrophy and regenerative medicine, suggesting that age-matched stem cells may be more effective for therapy.
McGill University has received $63 million in funding from the Canada Foundation for Innovation to support five research projects. These initiatives focus on green chemistry, broadband, embryology, cancer, and disease therapy, with world-class researchers exploring ways to address major public health problems.
A new embryology study clarifies the role of retinoic acid in limb development and finds that it controls forelimb budding but not hindlimb patterning. The research may lead to new therapeutic measures for congenital limb defects such as Holt-Oram syndrome.
The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology reports an estimated 219,000 to 246,000 babies born through assisted reproductive technology (ART) globally each year. ART procedures have increased by over 25% in two years, with significant variations in availability and quality between countries.
Researchers found that twins conceived through assisted reproductive technology (ART) have a higher risk of complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and death compared to spontaneously conceived twins. ART twins also require longer hospital stays and are more likely to be admitted to neonatal intensive care.
A study published in Human Reproduction found that single embryo transfer (eSET) is more effective and cheaper than double embryo transfer. eSET reduces multiple pregnancies by half and saves patients an average of €19,889 per live birth at term.