Articles tagged with Infertility
A clinical trial led by University of Oklahoma Health Sciences is investigating a new device designed to restore ovulation in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)-related infertility. The REBALANCE trial aims to assess the safety and effectiveness of the device, which uses electrothermal energy to prompt ovulation.
Women with infertility are at higher risk of developing SARD, including lupus and Sjögren's syndrome, even after accounting for pre-eclampsia and other pregnancy complications. Infertility treatments do not appear to increase this risk, suggesting that women may be undiagnosed or untreated.
Researchers have uncovered a mechanism by which the BRCA1 gene influences fertility, leading to genetic errors that can cause infertility. This breakthrough discovery enables potential therapeutic avenues for correcting or treating fertility issues in BRCA1 patients.
Researchers seek to identify Hispanic women at risk of developing chronic diseases through early screenings or interventions, aiming to improve health outcomes for millions in the population.
Research found that babies conceived through assisted reproductive technology have a 36% higher risk of major heart defects compared to naturally conceived babies. The study also showed that multiple births are associated with an even greater risk of congenital heart defects.
Researchers from Kumamoto University discovered that prostaglandin receptors in the uterus enhance decidualization, a crucial process for successful pregnancy. This finding opens the door to developing new fertility treatments targeting these receptors.
Researchers discovered a novel treatment that extends ovarian function in older mice by improving maintenance of the ovaries and preventing key age-related changes. The treatment also fixes hormone production and overall health, alleviating symptoms such as bone loss, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline.
A Danish study found long-term exposure to air pollution and road traffic noise increases the risk of infertility in both men and women. Men exposed to higher levels of PM2.5 had a 24% increased risk of infertility, while women over 35 years old exposed to louder road traffic noise had a 14% increased risk.
A uterus transplant was successfully performed on women with absolute uterine-factor infertility, resulting in a high live birth rate. However, the procedure was also associated with significant medical and surgical risks for both recipients and donors.
Researchers developed an AI prediction model that can identify male infertility risk without semen analysis, using hormone levels in a blood test. The model achieved an accuracy rate of approximately 74% and was particularly accurate in predicting non-obstructive azoospermia, the most severe form of male infertility.
A new study has found that women with a family history of endocrine diseases, including type 2 diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome, are at a higher risk of experiencing pregnancy loss. The study, which examined over 366,000 women in Denmark, found a significant association between endocrine disease and pregnancy loss.
A national, register-based study of 68,738 women in Denmark reveals significant social disparities in achieving live births after assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment. Women with higher education levels and income had a greater likelihood of success.
Data from the ESHRE European IVF Monitoring Consortium shows a 20% increase in ART treatment cycles in Europe, with steady rises in IVF and IUI usage. Pregnancy rates per transfer remained similar in 2021 and 2020 for IVF and ICSI, while frozen embryo replacement showed slightly higher rates.
A novel 3D imaging model has been introduced to identify features of blastocysts associated with successful pregnancies, potentially transforming current IVF selection methods. The study found that parameters related to size and specific features of the inner cell mass and outer layer are linked to higher pregnancy rates.
A new technique, METAPHOR, visualizes embryo metabolism to predict implantation success and full-term birth, increasing the probability of success in assisted reproduction processes.
Researchers at Ohio State University discovered the hepatitis E virus is associated with sperm in pigs, suggesting a possible link to male infertility and sexual transmission. The virus was found to circulate in blood and shed in feces, with viral particles present on the head of sperm cells that can infect human liver cells.
A new study from the University of Birmingham and the University of Nottingham found that the UK public is more accepting of adoption and surrogacy methods when one or both parents are infertile. The research showed significant increases in support for these methods, including planned private adoption and double donor surrogacy.
Research links early menopause to higher risks of breast and ovarian cancer in women. Second-degree relatives also show increased risks for colon, prostate, and testicular cancers.
A new study using stem cell-based models has revealed how early embryo cells decide between contributing to the foetus or to the supporting yolk sac. Understanding this decision is crucial for infertility treatment using in vitro fertilized (IVF) embryos, as producing the right number of yolk sac forming cells may be critical.
The study reveals remarkable variation between primate Y chromosomes, showing rapid evolution and previously unstudied regions. The researchers found that over 90% of ape X chromosome sequences aligned to the human X chromosome, while only 14-27% of ape Y chromosome sequences aligned to the human Y chromosome.
A Rutgers University study of over 31 million hospital records found that infertility treatment patients were twice as likely to be hospitalized with heart disease in the year after delivery. The study suggests that early postpartum checkups are crucial for patients undergoing infertility treatment.
A University at Buffalo-led research team has found that the same genes whose mutations gave rise to a low functioning male gorilla reproductive system may also be responsible for human male infertility. Researchers identified 109 reproductive-related gorilla genes that are often mutated when present in infertile men.
Scientists at University Hospital Bonn develop innovative vitrification method to preserve eggs before cancer treatment, offering higher chances of successful pregnancies. The technique involves slow freezing and avoids ice crystals damage, allowing for undamaged egg return.
Kumamoto University researchers discovered HSF5's crucial role in the completion of meiosis and activation of genes essential for sperm formation under non-stress conditions. HSF5 is distinct from other Heat Shock Factors, which primarily regulate gene expression in response to stress.
Researchers at ETH Zurich discovered a previously unrecognised mechanism for reduced fertility in polyploids, where twisted pollen tubes fail to reach the egg cells. The study found two genes controlling pollen tube growth, which are highly conserved and could be applied to plant breeding.
The project aims to overcome limitations of conventional semen analyses by examining mitochondrial DNA levels in sperm as a novel biomarker of sperm fitness. Researchers will evaluate relationships between mtDNA biomarkers and male reproductive health using large study samples.
A new consensus statement provides recommendations for improving diagnosis of deep endometriosis through additional pelvic ultrasounds and imaging. The guidelines aim to reduce diagnostic delay and enhance detection of the condition, which affects 10% of women of reproductive age.
Researchers at Huntsman Cancer Institute discovered a surprising connection between male infertility and an increased risk of certain cancers in families. By analyzing genetic and public health data, the team identified 13 characteristic patterns that cluster similar things together, making it easier to uncover the reason behind a fami...
Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute have made significant discoveries about the proteins controlling fertility in female mice. By identifying a crucial protein called USP7, they found that it plays a vital role in maintaining ovarian function after birth.
A new study led by Karolinska Institutet reveals the mechanism of sperm entry into the egg, explaining how mutations in egg coat proteins cause female infertility. The research also suggests potential implications for non-hormonal contraceptives.
Researchers at OHSU have developed a new strategy to treat infertility by turning skin cells into eggs capable of producing viable embryos. The technique involves transferring the nucleus of a skin cell into a donated egg, reducing its chromosomes by half to create a fertilizable embryo.
European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control reports significant increase in STI cases across Europe, with gonorrhoea cases rising by 48%, syphilis cases by 34%, and chlamydia cases by 16%. The surge highlights the need for enhanced prevention, access to testing, and effective treatment to address this public health challenge.
A team of researchers has identified the protein ATF7IP2 as crucial for ensuring male fertility. In sperm-forming cells, ATF7IP2 recruits the SETDB1 enzyme to compact X and Y chromosomes, preventing genomic errors. The protein also activates genes on non-sex chromosomes, important in recombination and sorting of chromosomes into sperm ...
Researchers found that impaired mitochondrial unfolded protein response causes accelerated telomere shortening in both oocytes and somatic cells of aging mice. This study highlights the link between loss of mitochondrial protein homeostasis, infertility, and somatic aging.
Men with low sperm count or none have a higher risk of developing cancer, including at younger ages, compared to fertile men. Families of azoospermic men have a significantly increased risk of five cancers, while families of oligozoospermic men have a higher risk of colon, bone and joint, and testicular cancers.
The team successfully created 'laboratory testicles' that closely simulate a natural testicle, allowing for the potential production of sperm cells in the lab. The artificial testicles were cultured from immature testicular cells sampled from neonatal mice and showed signs of meiosis, a process in which gametes are produced.
Researchers have discovered a new mechanism by which oocytes remain healthy for decades without succumbing to the wear and tear that would cause other cell types to fail. The study reveals the presence of EndoLysosomal Vesicular Assemblies, specialized structures that capture and hold onto protein aggregates, rendering them harmless.
Genetic analysis identified rare mutations in SPOCD1 and a new gene C19orf84 that work together to protect early-stage sperm cells from damage. This discovery could lead to expanded genetic screening for rare mutations and provide closure to affected individuals.
A new study in The Lancet found that intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) does not improve live birth rates compared to conventional IVF for couples with non-severe male factor infertility. ICSI was also shown to be an expensive and invasive procedure with potential risks to offspring health.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) affects 10% of females, causing infertility, miscarriage, and pregnancy complications. Effective management includes weight loss support, hormonal contraceptives, and nonhormonal medication like metformin.
Researchers have identified a new phenomenon where sperm can induce cell fusion in non-reproductive cells, holding promise for diagnosing male fertility issues. The discovery, dubbed SPICER, shows a correlation between syncytia formation and sperm fertilising potential.
A recent study by researchers at UCLA Health Sciences found that the presence of certain microorganisms in semen may affect sperm motility and male fertility. Specifically, Lactobacillus iners was linked to negative impacts on sperm parameters.
The global fertility rate is declining, with many countries predicted to have a population decline of more than 50% by 2100. Infertility risk factors, such as environmental pollution and smoking, are on the rise. Governments and companies must take action to address these issues and improve access to affordable fertility care.
Researchers found that about one in a hundred infertile men with normal semen parameters have a loss of CatSper function, leading to failure of fertilization and medically assisted reproduction. The discovery enables evidence-based treatment and diagnosis of this channelopathy.
A new study published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society found that stressed women undergoing fertility treatment may experience higher blood sugar levels during pregnancy, which can lead to weaker cardiovascular health. Women who conceived through intrauterine insemination (IUI) had higher stress and blood sugar levels than those...
A US epidemiological study found that increased waist measurements are linked to a higher risk of female infertility. Physical activity has been shown to potentially mitigate this risk, suggesting a potential protective effect.
Researchers found that genetic variations in the Eif4enif1 gene lead to premature ovarian insufficiency and reduced egg production. The study suggests that restoring proper mitochondrial behavior could improve fertility in human patients with similar conditions.
A study of 152 male gym enthusiasts found a significant lack of awareness about the risks of gym lifestyle on fertility. High levels of estrogen from protein supplements were linked to fertility issues, prompting a call for men to educate themselves about supplementation.
A study of 1.3 million Canadian children found a higher risk of autism spectrum disorder in those born to parents with infertility. The research suggests that certain obstetrical and neonatal factors may contribute to this increased risk, highlighting the need for further exploration of these factors in individuals with infertility.
Researchers created an immunodeficient mouse model of physiological ovarian aging, mirroring female fertility decline with age. The study found decreased oocyte quality, impaired follicle activation and growth, and increased mitochondrial dysfunctions in Old mice.
Researchers developed a new OCT approach to directly image coordination of tiny hair-like structures in live organisms, giving a powerful tool to investigate cilia's role in the female reproductive system. The technique revealed unexpected behaviors that contradict current views and suggested new roles for cilia.
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health found that COVID-19 vaccination in female and male partners does not increase the risk of miscarriage. In fact, vaccinated individuals had a slightly lower risk of miscarriage compared to unvaccinated individuals. The study analyzed survey data from over 1,800 female participants...
Researchers discovered that a single mutation in a key synaptonemal complex protein can cause infertility in mice and is likely to have the same effect in humans. This finding may lead to new technologies for treating male infertility by pinpointing the exact location of the defect.
A study by Brigham and Women's Hospital researchers found no correlation between anxiety and depression in men on fertility treatment, nor was there a negative impact from antidepressant medication. Despite stress concerns, the study suggests men with anxiety should continue their treatment without fear of harming IVF outcomes.
A new specimen collection system has been developed to enhance assisted reproductive technologies by providing a simple one-step method for selecting high-quality sperm for ICSI. The system, known as NovaSort, uses a barrier mesh to isolate mobile sperm without damaging their DNA.
A global fertility crisis affects one in six couples, with half the time originating from men. Researchers highlight the need for targeted treatments and improved diagnoses, citing lifestyle factors such as hormone-disrupting chemicals, poor diet, stress, and smoking as contributing causes.
A study of over 850,000 Australian children born between 2009 and 2017 found a small increased risk of birth defects among those conceived through fertility treatment, partly attributed to parental infertility. The use of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) was also associated with an increased risk for genitourinary abnormalities.
The special issue explores achievements and challenges in reproductive endocrinology and infertility medicine, presenting strategies to bridge the gap between societal obligations and practice. Access to care remains a challenge for varying populations within societies and underserved regions.
Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who follow a keto diet for at least 45 days may experience significant weight loss and improvements in reproductive hormone levels. Lower testosterone levels can also help reduce excess hair growth and other symptoms associated with PCOS.
A new $1.9 million NIH grant will investigate the role of glycogen in supporting healthy pregnancies. The study aims to understand how glycogen storage in the uterus affects fertility and pregnancy loss, with a focus on obesity's impact on uterine glycogen metabolism.