Articles tagged with Reproductive Disorders
Researchers developed a new methodology to identify biomarkers for male infertility, enabling comprehensive analysis of lipids and metabolites. They found 955 potential metabolites and 473 lipids that could be present in sperm.
A pilot study found that immunotherapy can stimulate egg maturation in women with autoimmune POI, leading to healthy births in three out of ten cases. The treatment involves rituximab, an approved drug for autoimmune conditions and cancers, which suppresses the autoimmune process and activates the remaining egg reserve.
Scientists have identified a unique chimeric RNA called UBA1-CDK16 that plays important roles in women's blood cell development and disease severity. The findings suggest the chimeric RNA may serve as a natural brake to protect women from excessive autoimmune activity.
FemTech has expanded over the past decade to become a major force for women's health worldwide, tackling issues like reproductive health, cardiovascular disease, and chronic conditions. International funding bodies are creating opportunities for innovation, enabling researchers to redefine how women access and experience medical care.
A new NIH study found associations between fertility history and children's development, including slightly higher behavior-problem scores and autism-like traits. Non-IVF fertility treatments were also linked to a higher risk of ADHD in children.
A new study found that chronic oral inflammation can impair female fertility by triggering a systemic immune response that affects the ovaries. This leads to oxidative damage, reduced egg quality, disrupted follicle development, and reduced live birth rates.
A major new study has found that severe asthma patients are often battling other health conditions, with nearly all suffering from at least one major issue. The study identified three distinct profiles linked to how well asthma is controlled and the treatments needed, offering potential breakthroughs for improving care.
Research in Canadian Medical Association Journal found that babies born to mothers with endometriosis are at a higher risk of congenital anomalies. The study included over 1.4 million births and found an increased risk of cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, genital, and musculoskeletal anomalies as well as neoplasms and tumours.
The European Society of Endocrinology organizes World Hormone Day to educate the public about hormone-related health issues. Global endocrine disorders affect millions worldwide, emphasizing the need for proper hormone balance.
Research from Lund University found a link between male infertility and an increased risk of developing colorectal and thyroid cancer. Men who underwent assisted reproduction techniques, such as ICSI, were more likely to develop these cancers.
A new Washington State University study shows that recurring inflammation linked to endometriosis can sensitize the nervous system, driving lasting pain. This finding helps explain why pain persists even after lesions are removed.
The University of Cincinnati has opened a zebrafish research facility to investigate the effects of environmental contaminants on human fertility. The lab will use zebrafish as a model organism to understand molecular mechanisms behind reproductive biology and infertility.
A review of international studies found that regular physical activity, a Mediterranean-style diet, and stress management can help reduce endometriosis-related pain and improve quality of life. The study also introduces the fasting-mimicking diet as a potential approach for managing gynecological conditions.
Global maternal deaths fell to 240,000 in 2023, but progress has slowed in recent years and remains uneven across countries. Improvements in access to quality care could substantially reduce mortality, particularly in high-burden regions.
A population-level cohort study of 20 low-mortality countries found that females aged 35-60 have higher cancer mortality rates than males, despite similar treatment and diagnostic pathways. The study highlights the need for targeted action to improve the prevention, early detection, and treatment of female reproductive cancers.
The ESE and ESPE have launched a landmark Joint Clinical Practice Guidance to support structured and effective transition of young people with endocrine conditions. The Guidance provides practical, evidence-based recommendations to ensure continuity, safety and quality of care during this critical phase in a patient's life.
A new study from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine emphasizes the need for updated treatment guidelines on reproductive health among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The survey of 104 nephrologists found that sexual and menstrual health were rarely discussed, highlighting barriers to counseling.
A research team has identified eleven novel factors essential for mouse zygote development, which modulate embryonic development through precise mechanisms. These findings suggest the existence of previously unrecognized regulatory factors and indicate potential for molecular-level control of embryo development.
The Global Centre for Asian Women’s Health has partnered with NUS Medicine to host the Women’s Health Impact Tracking (WHIT) platform, which measures progress on closing the women’s health gap across a set of conditions and countries. The platform provides clear, comparative insights to support decision-making and inform policies.
Researchers found that over half of IVF cycles in the US were performed at clinics affiliated with private equity firms, sparking concerns about the impact on quality and accessibility. The study's authors emphasize the need for further research to understand the benefits and risks of this business model.
A Chinese-led study maps the evolving global burden of infertility, revealing a sustained increase in global prevalence and years lived with disability among women. The study also finds that later marriage and childbearing contribute to the elevated infertility burden, while sociocultural factors lead to higher detection rates in women.
A new study from the University of Southern Denmark reveals that depression is significantly more common among women with gynaecological disorders—both before and after receiving a diagnosis. The study highlights the need for earlier detection and a more integrated approach between somatic and psychiatric care.
A new study suggests that genetic differences passed down from ancient human ancestors and exposure to common chemicals could explain why some women are more likely to develop endometriosis. Researchers identified six genetic variants linked to the condition, which also occur in genes sensitive to modern pollutants.
Researchers have discovered a key protein structure in the germ cells of male mice that causes deformations in sperm flagellum leading to infertility. The study used ultrastructure expansion microscopy to visualize the centriole, a tiny cylindrical structure critical for sperm movement.
The FDA has approved elinzanetant for treating hot flashes and night sweats in postmenopausal women. The drug significantly reduces the frequency and severity of symptoms while improving sleep quality and quality of life.
A research team at the Medical University of Vienna has discovered a previously unknown mechanism that plays a decisive role in the development of pre-eclampsia. The study found that an amino acid transporter and transcription factor work together to control angiogenesis and protect cells from oxidative stress.
The European Society of Endocrinology has published a new Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management and Evaluation of Menopause and the Perimenopause. The guideline provides guidance on evaluating and managing women with menopause-related symptoms, including hormone therapy benefits and risks. It also discusses alternative treatme...
OHSU researchers have developed a unique proof of concept to treat infertility by turning skin cells into eggs capable of producing early human embryos. The technique, known as mitomeiosis, combines the processes of mitosis and meiosis to create gametes.
The European Society of Endocrinology has released the EndoCompass Research Roadmap, a major new initiative to align research efforts and improve funding strategies for hormone-related health challenges. The roadmap identifies specific research needs across eight endocrine specialties and five cross-cutting areas.
Researchers from the University of Osaka have identified a crucial protein, TMEM217, that regulates sperm movement. By restoring the signal, they successfully treated immotile sperm and enabled them to fertilize eggs in vitro, leading to healthy births.
Researchers at The University of Osaka developed an mRNA therapy that restored sperm production and achieved the birth of viable offspring in a mouse model. This treatment showed promise for treating non-obstructive azoospermia, a genetic condition causing male infertility.
Researchers discovered that serotonin levels in the brain are related to the ability to have an erection or orgasm, but only in patients taking SSRI antidepressants. The test, LDAEP, measures brain activity and can predict sexual side effects with 87% accuracy.
A recent study published in Oncoscience found that lifestyle choices and hormonal imbalances significantly impact male fertility in Indian men. The research discovered a strong association between poor habits such as tobacco and alcohol use, heat exposure, and body weight with lower semen quality and higher DNA damage.
Researchers at Stowers Institute for Medical Research have identified the precise location where human chromosomes break and recombine to form Robertsonian chromosomes. The study reveals that repetitive DNA sequences play a central role in genome organization and evolution, explaining how these rearrangements form and remain stable.
The study found that a specific spinal circuit is involved in both ejaculation and arousal, and integrates sensory inputs to adjust its output based on the animal's internal state. The researchers also discovered that Gal⁺ neurons receive sensory input from the penis and can trigger ejaculation, but their effects are suppressed by brai...
A cohort study found that poverty and social disadvantage are associated with lower fecundability and increased risks of subfertility in both women and men. The study suggests that further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms behind these findings.
Researchers developed a technique to study embryonic implantation in mice by keeping mouse uterine tissue alive outside the body. The method showed over 90% efficacy for implantation and provided insights into the maternal-embryonic signaling process.
Researchers identified a novel homozygous nonsense mutation in DLGAP5 responsible for human female infertility. The mutation led to abnormal oocyte maturation and impaired embryo development, with no cleavage embryos developing into blastocysts.
Researchers detected microplastics in 69% of women's follicular fluid and 55% of men's seminal fluid, with PTFE being the most prevalent polymer. The study highlights the need to explore possible implications for human reproductive health and fertility.
Researchers identified nearly 500 switch-like genes, which express at high or low levels, and linked them to various ailments like vaginal atrophy and COVID-19. The study suggests that hormones and genetic variation drive this 'switch-like' behavior.
A meta-analysis of 21 studies involving over 178,000 women found that those with infertility history have a 14% increased risk of heart or blood vessel conditions, as well as higher risks of heart disease and stroke. Younger women and those undergoing fertility treatments are at greater risk.
Research finds high levels of phthalates in mothers' urine associated with shorter anogenital distances in 3-year-old boys and girls, a marker of reproductive health and hormone disruption. The study emphasizes the need for preventive measures to protect vulnerable groups from endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
Research shows that low phosphate levels in blood are associated with reduced sperm motility and poor semen quality. The findings suggest a potential link between phosphate and male fertility, highlighting the importance of understanding biological factors involved in reproductive health.
A team of scientists has pinpointed a critical neural circuit for female sexual rejection, revealing how the brain integrates signals to shape behavior. The ventromedial hypothalamus, specifically progesterone-sensitive neurons in the anterior VMH, play a crucial role in determining whether a female accepts or rejects mating attempts.
The large cohort study identified common pregnancy complications, such as premature rupture of membranes and gestational diabetes mellitus, affecting 18.29% and 16.74% of participants, respectively. High-risk groups were also identified, including women with assisted reproductive technology and those aged 35 and older.
The Wyss Institute's iNodes team has been awarded an ARPA-H Sprint for Women's Health to develop implantable immune organs for treating ovarian cancer. The iNodes concept is based on the formation of lymphoid organs in tumors, which can be reprogrammed to attack cancer cells and retain a long-term immune memory.
A study found that levels of toxic chemicals in people's bodies decreased both in California and nationwide following the listing of over 850 chemicals under Proposition 65. This decline suggests that the law has led to widespread reformulation of products, reducing exposure to harmful substances.
A large study found that women with premature ovarian insufficiency are 2.6 times more likely to have an autoimmune disorder, with some conditions increasing the risk by 26 times. The study suggests a strong link between POI and severe autoimmune diseases, highlighting the need for medical professionals to be aware of this increased risk.
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.
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 Japanese research team analyzed the effect of ovulation-inducing agents on embryo quality using a mouse model and live-cell imaging. They found that stimulated oocytes produced faster-developing embryos with no significant differences in chromosome segregation or cell multiplication.
Women with selected rheumatic diseases experience a higher prevalence of childlessness, while risks for pre-eclampsia, low birth weight, and preterm delivery are increased for many conditions. Men with rheumatic conditions also face a higher risk of childlessness, although the impact on fertility varies among different diseases.
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.
A team of researchers used biopsies from young bulls to investigate the genes and mechanisms controlling male fertility. They found a large number of genes associated with fertility in bulls, most of which are also relevant to human male fertility.
A new review suggests that female reproductive characteristics, such as early menstruation and polycystic ovary syndrome, may contribute to later metabolic dysfunction. The study highlights the importance of screening for reproductive risk factors to aid in prevention or treatment of chronic metabolic diseases.
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.
Researchers from Binghamton University are unraveling the workings of Group B Strep (GBS) infections, which could someday lead to a vaccine. They have identified a novel protein that could serve as a vaccine candidate to fight this bacterium, impacting women's reproductive health and neonatal outcomes.
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.