Articles tagged with Infertility
A new study analyzed data on women born between 1916 and 1975, revealing increases in primary involuntary childlessness and secondary infertility. Meanwhile, the success rate of assisted reproductive technology (ART) increased over time, with significant contributions to population growth.
Researchers analyzed dairy cows' uterine microbiota and found significant associations with fertility, including a correlation between microbial diversity and AI frequency. The study suggests that farm-to-farm variations in microbiota can impact fertility, paving the way for new diagnostic approaches to low fertility in dairy farms.
Endometriosis suffers face significant barriers to timely diagnosis due to societal stigma surrounding periods, inadequate GP training, and challenges in distinguishing symptoms from normal menstrual pain. The study highlights the need for mandatory training on menstrual conditions during medical school to prioritize women's healthcare.
A new Boston University study found that COVID vaccines likely do not affect menstrual cycle regularity, bleed length, or pain. Menstrual cycles increased by 1.1 days after a first dose and 1.3 days after a second, but these changes resolved within one to two cycles.
Researchers found that women with adenomyosis experienced higher rates of complications during pregnancy, including caesarean sections, surgical removal of the uterus, and wound complications. The study also linked adenomyosis to increased risks of pre-eclampsia, hypertension, and placenta previa.
A new AI tool can identify sperm in severely infertile men in seconds, compared to the hours it takes scientists. The algorithm improves antiquated approaches and increases the chance of a couple conceiving their own biological children while reducing stress on sperm and increasing efficiency.
A small study suggests that vaginal progesterone treatment can increase the chances of conception in couples with unexplained infertility. The treatment, which is safe and low-cost, showed more than double the birth rate among treated women, but further research is needed to confirm these results.
Researchers have discovered that gene editing technologies may introduce unintended mutations and damage to DNA in early human embryos. The study found that most cells repair breaks in the DNA using non-homologous end joining, which can lead to additional genetic abnormalities.
A study found that more than 40% of women who froze their eggs in their 30s were able to have babies when they returned to the fertility clinic. However, many didn't return or used other fertility treatments. Women who used frozen eggs had a lower miscarriage rate compared to those using fresh eggs.
Research found that women treated for childhood Hodgkin lymphoma may experience declining fertility and longer wait times to become pregnant, but overall success rates are high. The majority of women in the study who had tried to become pregnant were successful, with some being able to conceive at a younger age.
New study finds that men who suffered from mild COVID-19 have lower sperm concentrations and motility even three months after recovery. The researchers believe that the virus may cause permanent damage to male fertility, leading to long-term decline in semen quality.
A new study found significant gaps and variations in UK schools' curricula for sexual and reproductive health, with important topics like endometriosis and miscarriage missing. The research suggests better education is crucial for young people to understand their reproductive systems and make informed decisions about their lives.
Researchers used cryo-electron tomography to study the dynein motor protein, revealing new details about how it generates force and coordinates with other proteins. This knowledge may help develop treatments for diseases related to cilia dysfunction, such as fertility issues and lung disease.
Research presented at ENDO 2023 found women with PCOS died 47% earlier than those without the condition. They were also at higher risk for deaths due to cardiovascular disease, tumors, diabetes, and lung infections.
Research reveals that women with PCOS experience significant body image concerns, including greater self-classification as overweight and lower body satisfaction scores. This correlation may increase the risk of developing eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia.
Researchers developed a noninvasive diagnostic test to identify intact sperm in infertile men with nonobstructive azoospermia. The test uses protein biomarkers AKAP4 and ASPX to visualize well-developed sperm, potentially increasing success rates for surgical sperm extraction. This breakthrough may lead to new male birth control drugs ...
Researchers at Nagoya University have discovered that targeting Fusobacterium bacteria can reduce the formation of lesions associated with endometriosis. The study suggests an effective non-hormonal antibiotic treatment for this gynecological disorder, which affects one in ten women between 15 and 49 years old.
Researchers at Nagoya University have found that ATP, an energy 'currency' within cells, acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain and causes mammalian ovulation. Administering ATP to rats induced the LH surge leading to ovulation, suggesting a potential new treatment for infertility.
A new study found that overweight boys tend to have lower testicular volume, putting them at risk for infertility in adulthood. The research suggests that weight loss could help patients avoid infertility later in life.
Researchers at the Stowers Institute for Medical Research have revealed the dynamics of a new, young chromosome in fruit flies similar to those found in humans associated with treatment-resistant cancer and infertility. The B chromosomes are maintained by meiotic drive, enabling them to persist in a genome.
A mouse study suggests that a specific brain receptor, the leptin receptor, may be involved in the development of PCOS symptoms. Researchers found that mice exposed to excess androgens prenatally had improved estrous cycles and regulation of their menstrual cycles, offering potential therapeutic targets for people with PCOS.
Researchers at Washington State University have identified the Arrdc5 gene as a potential target for male contraception. The study found that when this gene is inactivated, it causes significant infertility in males, characterized by decreased sperm count, slowed mobility, and distorted shape.
Scientists have developed a new microfluidic sperm selection device to improve IVF success rates. The device replicates the natural sperm selection process, resulting in an 85% improvement in DNA integrity and a 90% reduction in sperm cell death.
A UC Riverside study identifies how a Fragile X gene mutation contributes to premature ovarian failure, leading to early infertility. Researchers found that the mutation affects neurons regulating reproduction in the brain and ovaries, causing an increase in hormone production and faster secretion rates.
A new finger-prick test for Trichomonas vaginalis has been developed by Washington State University researcher John Alderete. The test detects an antibody specific to the organism and provides rapid, affordable results, making it a potential game-changer in the fight against this prevalent but neglected STI.
Researchers at Medical College of Georgia identified an increased prevalence of disease-causing genetic variants in females with unexplained infertility. The study found that 17% of these women had gene variants known to cause heart problems and cancer.
Researchers at Houston Methodist discovered a way to reverse infertility in sterile mice by reducing high-circulating cholesterol with a bacterial protein. The study showed that this protein, called serum opacity factor, lowered HDL cholesterol levels by over 40% in three hours and restored fertility in the mice.
A recent study published in PNAS reveals that the protein TSKS plays a crucial role in eliminating sperm cytoplasm, enabling a streamlined structure necessary for successful fertilization. The findings suggest potential applications for diagnostic tests and male contraceptives.
A new study from Brigham and Women's Hospital found that men who regularly lift heavy objects at work have higher sperm counts. Men with more physical jobs also had higher levels of testosterone and estrogen, counterintuitively.
Scientists at the Wyss Institute and Gameto develop a living, fully human ovarian organoid that supports egg cell maturation and secretes sex hormones. This technology enables the study of human ovarian biology without tissue from patients and could lead to new treatments for infertility and ovarian cancer.
Researchers from Osaka University have identified a protein called FER1L5 that is crucial for the acrosome reaction, allowing sperm to fertilize eggs. The study found that mice lacking FER1L5 were unable to undergo the acrosome reaction, highlighting the importance of this protein in male fertility.
A recent study found that less than four in 100 men who applied to be sperm donors completed the process, with over half withdrawing before samples were released. The research, published in Human Reproduction, also showed that nearly a fifth of applicants were rejected due to health issues or genetic diseases.
Researchers found that a Mediterranean diet can improve fertility outcomes by reducing inflammation and increasing sperm quality in men. The anti-inflammatory properties of the diet may also enhance couples' chances of conception.
Scientists at Northwestern Medicine have discovered a causal link between environmental phthalates and increased uterine fibroid growth. Exposure to certain phthalates, such as DEHP, may activate a hormonal pathway that causes fibroid tumors to grow. This study explains the mechanisms behind this association.
Researchers have discovered a family of selfish genes, wtf, that have survived for over 100 million years in yeast, contradicting established beliefs on their longevity. These 'killer meiotic drivers' transmit themselves to half of offspring and destroy reproductive cells without being suppressed by natural selection.
Researchers found that administering nitric oxide to preterm mice after birth can reverse symptoms of congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, including sensory and cognitive disorders. A clinical trial is now underway to test this treatment in human preterm infants.
A new paper published in Social Science & Medicine proposes that synthetic steroids were administered to female captives in Nazi concentration camps to prevent menstruation and fertility. The study, led by Dr. Peggy J. Kleinplatz, is based on historical evidence and testimony from Holocaust survivors, who reported suspicious food ratio...
Researchers have discovered a new protein called MAIA, which is crucial for human fertilization. The protein helps draw sperm into the egg cytoplasm, paving the way for novel ways to treat infertility.
Researchers discovered that human egg cells skip a crucial metabolic reaction to maintain their reproductive capacity without losing energy, allowing them to remain dormant in ovaries for up to 50 years. This finding explains why some women with mitochondrial conditions linked to this reaction do not experience reduced fertility.
Researchers discovered that the process of hypercondensation, where DNA is compressed, relies on a second type of protamine, PRM2, which may be crucial for fertility. The study sheds light on the complex mechanism behind sperm development and could lead to new treatments for male infertility.
A UMass Amherst researcher will investigate the link between ambient environmental factors and male fertility, focusing on air pollution and temperature. Her study aims to identify risks associated with these exposures and inform medical and behavioral interventions for men before fertility treatment.
The study reveals uterus transplant outcomes are safe for the recipient, living donor, and child, making it a potential solution for women struggling with uterine-factor infertility. Uterus transplants may be a viable option for these individuals, offering a chance to conceive and carry a pregnancy.
A large analysis of reproductive health data has found a significant association between infertility, miscarriage, and stillbirth with an increased risk of non-fatal and fatal stroke in women. Women who experienced recurrent miscarriages or stillbirths were at higher risk of stroke, particularly those with a history of infertility.
A new study found that women over 40, non-Hispanic Black women, and those with lower education levels are more likely to experience infertility. The US fertility rate has plateaued, but access to healthcare services is a significant factor in preventing infertility.
The study found that uterine transplantation is an effective method to remedy infertility, with a clinical pregnancy rate of 33% and cumulative live birth rate exceeding expectations. The procedure also showed positive health outcomes, including improved quality of life and low rates of anxiety and depression.
A Rutgers study predicts a woman's risk of miscarriage based on her genome, providing valuable insights for reproductive choices and fertility treatment plans. The researchers developed an algorithm using machine learning methods to identify genetic variants associated with aneuploidy in human eggs.
A mouse study suggests that active testosterone therapy can lead to fewer and less developed eggs retrieved during IVF. Discontinuing testosterone therapy appears to have no significant impact on reproductive capacity, however.
A new study found that women with obesity have suppressed ovarian follicle development and reduced production of reproductive hormones, which may underlie reduced fertility. The researchers also discovered that luteal phase defects are more prevalent in obese women during natural ovulatory cycles.
Researchers found that nearly 80% of women with blocked fallopian tubes could conceive naturally after a simple diagnostic procedure and treatment, called selective salpingography and fallopian tube recanalization. The study suggests that this treatment could provide clarity on infertility and offer a life-changing option for many women.
Researchers studied meiotic cohesin complexes' effect on chromosome structure and genomic integrity in embryonic stem cells. Maintaining adequate levels of REC8 and STAG3 factors ensures chromosomal stabilization and sister chromatid cohesion.
The Endocrine Society's ENDO 2022 news conferences will showcase the latest research on diabetes, obesity, thyroid health, and reproductive conditions. Key findings include the impact of chemicals in hair care products on breast cancer cells and the effects of childhood obesity on male infertility.
A recent study published in the Journal of Endocrinology suggests that lowering blood glucose levels can partially restore reproductive hormone levels and ovulation in female mice with obesity. The study used dapagliflozin, a common type 2 diabetes medication, to treat the mice, resulting in improved fertility outcomes.
A recent study published in Breast Cancer Research suggests that self-reported male infertility may be associated with an increased risk of invasive breast cancer. The researchers conducted a case-control study among 1,998 males diagnosed with breast cancer, comparing them to 1,597 control males without blood relatives. The study found...
A new micro-device has been developed to streamline the Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) procedure, allowing more IVF clinics to offer this treatment. The device, smaller than a pinhead in size, holds up to 10 eggs and simplifies the injection process.
Researchers at Wayne State University developed a novel technique to measure the age of male sperm, finding a link between sperm epigenetic aging and pregnancy outcomes. The study suggests that older sperm can be associated with lower pregnancy success rates and shorter gestation periods.
Researchers have identified the Xist gene as a critical regulator of fetal development in mice, leading to miscarriage and abnormal placentas when epigenetic instructions are missing. The study's findings suggest that failed Xist imprinting can be 'cured' by targeting specific genes involved in histone modifications.
A new study from Massachusetts General Hospital reveals a strong association between infertility and an increased risk of heart failure, particularly in women. Infertility was associated with a 16% increased risk of overall heart failure and a 27% increased risk of HFpEF.
Researchers at CRCHUM discover that cell division in mouse embryos occurs asymmetrically, with cytokinesis primarily pinched from one side. This finding challenges traditional textbook views of cell division and may have implications for embryo viability and human fertility.
A new study discovered a previously unknown mechanism in roundworms that protects their egg cells from division errors, which could lead to new strategies for combatting infertility in humans. The study found that removing certain proteins allowed another motor protein to kick in as a backup, restoring the spindle structure and allowin...
Researchers at UBC have successfully 3D printed human testicular cells and observed early signs of sperm-producing capabilities. This breakthrough may lead to new fertility treatments for couples with untreatable forms of male infertility.