Articles tagged with Infertility
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.
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...
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.
A randomized study of 379 women with obesity and unexplained infertility found that intensive lifestyle changes that shed pounds led to no better chances of pregnancy than simply increasing physical activity without weight loss. The study also showed significant health benefits from weight loss, including a decrease in metabolic syndrome.
Researchers found that high levels of anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) may cause follicles to mature too quickly, leading to problems with ovulation and fertility in women with PCOS. AMH was previously thought to be a passive byproduct of the disorder.
A research team discovered that human eggs are missing the protein KIFC1, which acts as a molecular motor to stabilize spindle poles during cell division. This finding opens up new avenues for therapeutic approaches to reduce chromosome segregation errors in human eggs.
Researchers at Boston University found no association between COVID-19 vaccination and conception likelihood in female or male partners. However, COVID-19 infection was linked to reduced fertility in men, particularly those testing positive within 60 days of a cycle.
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health investigators finds that COVID-19 vaccination in either partner does not impair fertility. In contrast, males who test positive for COVID within 60 days of a cycle have reduced fertility compared to uninfected men.
A recent study published in The Journal of Urology found that serum hormone ratios can predict the risk of future infertility in children with cryptorchidism. Researchers discovered that inhibin B levels and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) are significant markers of spermatogenesis, helping to identify boys at high risk of infertility.
A nationwide study found that weight loss prior to starting infertility treatments did not increase the chances of having a healthy baby. Women with obesity and unexplained infertility who lost weight before beginning therapy did not have a greater chance of delivering a healthy baby than those who did not lose weight.
Research involving nearly 250,000 US families found that medically assisted reproduction techniques, including IVF, do not significantly affect birth weight and pregnancy term. Once family circumstances are considered, the differences between MAR-conceived babies and naturally conceived children become insignificant.
A large observational study found that children conceived through assisted reproductive techniques (ART) have generally good mental health throughout adolescence and young adulthood. However, those born after ART had a slightly elevated risk of obsessive-compulsive disorder, which was explained by parental background factors.
A qualitative study of seven women who underwent uterine transplantation found that they experienced a mix of emotions, including anxiety and sense of unreality. The women reported feeling like most other mothers, but also struggled with the medical supervision and feelings of uncertainty.
Researchers have created reconstructable uterus-derived materials (RUMs) to aid in the recovery of damaged uteruses. The materials, which can be formed into different states and shapes, prevent intrauterine adhesion and promote angiogenesis, endometrial regeneration, and muscle collagen rebuilding.
The study reveals that the Cdc42 gene is essential for proper alignment and function of Sertoli cells, which support sperm cell development. Disruptions in this gene can lead to reduced testicular function and infertility. Researchers hope to develop non-invasive diagnostic tests to identify specific causes of male infertility.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in spermatogonial stem cell research, successfully generating functional sperm cells using primate embryonic stem cells. The study, published in Fertility and Sterility Science, shows promise for future clinical therapies to treat male infertility.
A more inclusive definition of infertility could help explain why current diagnostic tests frequently fail to find a reason for reproductive failure. This broader view may also open up novel opportunities for tailoring infertility treatments to each couple, considering the complex network of interacting male and female genes.
Research found significant discrepancies in delivery and funding of fertility preservation services across the UK, with unequal access to options for child cancer patients. Experts are calling for consistent, centralized funding to ensure all children have an equal chance to preserve their fertility after cancer treatment.
Researchers at Kyushu University successfully reconstitute the ovarian follicle from mouse stem cells, generating functional egg cells and growing viable mice. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for infertility and help conserve endangered animals through egg cell production.
A study published in Cell Reports Medicine reveals the molecular and cellular changes in testicular tissue of infertile men, identifying alterations in spermatogonial stem cell compartment. The research provides new insights into male infertility and prepares ground for better diagnosis.
A new gene ZFP541 has been discovered by researchers at Kumamoto University to control the completion of meiosis in spermatogenesis. The study found that ZFP541 plays an essential role in regulating meiosis and is expressed in late meiotic prophase, binding to regulatory regions of meiosis-related genes.
Researchers at RMIT University have discovered a Teflon-like molecule on the womb's surface that decreases at a certain point in the menstrual cycle, opening the 'golden window' for pregnancy success. This finding could lead to improved IVF success rates and potentially treat underlying causes of infertility.
Researchers from Osaka University identified SPATA33 as a key regulator of sperm motility, which will aid in developing fast-acting male contraceptives. The study also clarified the mechanism by which SPATA33 controls sperm motility, shedding light on the cause of male infertility.
A study published in Developmental Cell reveals that lagging chromosomes contribute to an uneven chromosomal distribution, leading to aneuploidy and infertility. Researchers propose artificially slowing down cell division to limit aneuploidy, offering a potential solution for improving egg quality in older patients.
A new study has found that the absence of Aire protein in mice leads to fertility problems similar to those affecting men with autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome type I (APS-1). Researchers discovered that Aire-dependent central tolerance plays a critical role in maintaining male fertility.
A study of 1,349 Malawian women aged 16-26 found that nearly 13% reported difficulty conceiving, with 85.5% seeking help. Traditional healers were the most common source of support, used by 44.4% of women.
Research found that men diagnosed with inflammatory arthritis before their peak reproductive years have lower fertility rates, fewer pregnancies, and poor sperm quality compared to those diagnosed at older ages. Inflammatory arthritis is linked to male infertility, erectile dysfunction, and insufficient testosterone production.
Researchers from Osaka University found a link between excessive autophagy and reduced sperm production, suggesting a potential mechanism for male infertility. The study suggests that Rubicon regulates autophagic degradation of GATA4, promoting Sertoli cell function.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki have identified short non-coding RNA molecules in human ova and embryos, shedding light on embryonic development. The study's findings may lead to improved infertility treatments and a deeper understanding of early miscarriages.
Researchers identified a novel lncRNA, Teshl, which plays a crucial role in the development of Y-bearing sperm and regulates sex chromosome gene expression. The study provides new insights into sex ratio variations and suggests that genetics may be a key factor in human male infertility.
A study of 692 female surgeons found that nearly half experienced major pregnancy complications, including miscarriages and preterm birth. The researchers call for policy changes to support pregnant surgeons and change the culture surrounding childbearing.
Researchers found a nearly 35,000% increase in COVID-19 vaccine and infertility Google searches following a misinformation event. The study highlights the dangers of misinformation campaigns on public perception and decision-making, particularly among pregnant patients.
Scientists at the University of Cincinnati have developed a blueprint for the protein anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), which plays a crucial role in reproductive organ development. Understanding how AMH interacts with its signaling receptor may lead to novel treatments for infertility, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and even feral cat ...
Researchers discovered a genetic mutation in FSIP2 protein that affects sperm flagella, leading to infertility. Mice with the mutation had impaired sperm movement, while those overproducing FSIP2 were fertile with longer, faster-swimming sperm.
A new study by University of Liverpool ecologists finds that climate change will see some species succumb to infertility earlier than thought. The research used fruit fly species to predict temperature tolerance and found that almost half of the species become sterile at lower temperatures, making conservation more difficult.
A lifestyle intervention targeting women with obesity and infertility significantly improves pregnancy rates, especially spontaneous pregnancies. The Fit-For-Fertility program shows promise as a cost-effective alternative to fertility treatments, with a live-birth rate 14.2 percentage points higher than the control group.
A large health insurance database in Taiwan investigated the association between obstructive sleep apnea and male infertility. The study found that obstructive sleep apnea was a significant risk factor for male infertility, with treatment for sleep apnea not necessarily reducing the risk.
A Danish study found that overweight mothers had a higher risk of infertility in their sons compared to those with normal weight. The researchers also highlighted the importance of addressing risk factors for infertility globally and acknowledged the need for further studies to corroborate these findings.
A new study from Keck Medicine of USC shows that men over 50 who undergo a vasectomy reversal achieve the same rate of pregnancy as those under 50. The study analyzed data from 3,000 men and found that age was not a factor in success rates.
Researchers have developed an acoustofluidic process that can isolate sperm with normal head morphology and high DNA integrity from raw semen samples. The device selects over 60,000 high-quality sperm in under 50 minutes, providing a clinically-relevant number for IVF and ICSI.
Researchers have developed a protein delivery system that restored normal sperm development and allowed previously infertile mice to father pups. The treatment delivered a key protein called PIN1 directly to mouse testicles, repairing damaged reproductive cells and improving fertility.
Researchers found that embryo culture is associated with placental abnormalities, preeclampsia, and abnormal fetal growth. Optimizing embryo culture is key to ensuring healthy outcomes for mothers and offspring.
Scientists have identified a crucial protein called SKP1 that drives a key transition step in male meiosis, the process resulting in sperm production. Without this protein, meiosis cannot proceed, and defects can occur, leading to male infertility, pregnancy loss, or birth defects.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that an online program for women with infertility doubled their pregnancy rate, comparable to in-person programs. The Mind/Body Program offers ten hour-long modules of instruction covering stress management, relaxation techniques, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
A new NIH study found that antioxidant supplements did not improve semen quality or pregnancy and live birth rates in men with infertility. The Males, Antioxidants, and Infertility Trial (MOXI) reported no statistically significant differences between the placebo and antioxidant groups.
Dr. Neal Barnard shares how common conditions like infertility, weight gain, and menopausal symptoms are fueled by hormone imbalances linked to food choices. He offers practical tips and recipes to balance hormones and improve overall health.
Researchers at Kumamoto University have discovered the Meiosin gene, which acts as a control tower to switch on hundreds of genes for germ cell formation. This finding has significant implications for reproductive medicine and infertility treatments.
Ethicists argue that sperm donation after death is morally permissible to plug the UK's shortage of donor sperm and increasing demand. The process would involve collecting and freezing sperm after death through electrical stimulation or surgery, with health checks addressing potential genetic concerns.
A randomized clinical trial examined the effects of daily folic acid and zinc supplementation on semen quality and live births among 2,300 couples. The study found that folic acid and zinc supplementation improved semen quality and increased the chances of conception.
A new study conducted at University of Utah Health found that zinc and folic acid supplements did not improve sperm counts or pregnancy rates in men. The researchers also noted a higher proportion of broken DNA in sperm among those who took the supplements, which could contribute to male infertility.
Research by Lancaster University and the University of Oregon reveals that infertility disproportionately affects working-class people, those with disabilities, and others. The study calls for greater healthcare equity and inclusive reproductive health surveillance to address these disparities.
A new study from Penn Medicine found that direct-to-consumer hormone-based fertility tests for women are both empowering and confusing. The tests, which estimate egg supply or 'ovarian reserve,' are marketed as an accessible option for investigating fertility status but do not predict natural conception.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital identify a genetic abnormality in the SYCP2 gene as a possible cause of male infertility. The study found that variants affecting this gene were associated with low sperm count and loss-of-function variants, making it a potential diagnostic marker.
Researchers at Penn Medicine identify specific genetic locations of retained histones in sperm DNA, which can affect embryonic development. A new mouse model with a mutated Gcn5 gene allows for closer tracking of defective sperm and potential therapeutic targets.
Men born small for gestational age have a 55% increased risk of infertility as adults, compared to those born within the normal weight range. The study found no link between gestational age and infertility in women.