Heavy metals are naturally occurring components of the Earth's crust and persistent environmental pollutants. Human exposure to heavy metals occurs via various pathways, including inhalation of air/dust particles, ingesting contaminated water or soil, or through the food chain. Their bioaccumulation may lead to diverse toxic effects affecting different body tissues and organ systems. The toxicity of heavy metals depends on the properties of the given metal, dose, route, duration of exposure (acute or chronic), and extent of bioaccumulation. The detrimental impacts of heavy metals on human health are largely linked to their capacity to interfere with antioxidant defense mechanisms, primarily through their interaction with intracellular glutathione (GSH) or sulfhydryl groups (R-SH) of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), and other enzyme systems. Although arsenic (As) is believed to bind directly to critical thiols, alternative hydrogen peroxide production processes have also been postulated. Heavy metals are known to interfere with signaling pathways and affect a variety of cellular processes, including cell growth, proliferation, survival, metabolism, and apoptosis. For example, cadmium can affect the BLC-2 family of proteins involved in mitochondrial death via the overexpression of antiapoptotic Bcl-2 and the suppression of proapoptotic (BAX, BAK) mechanisms, thus increasing the resistance of various cells to undergo malignant transformation. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is an important regulator of antioxidant enzymes, the level of oxidative stress, and cellular resistance to oxidants and has been shown to act as a double-edged sword in response to arsenic-induced oxidative stress. Another mechanism of significant health threats and heavy metal (e.g., Pb) toxicity involves the substitution of essential metals (e.g., calcium (Ca), copper (Cu), and iron (Fe)) with structurally similar heavy metals (e.g., cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb)) in the metal-binding sites of proteins. Displaced essential redox metals (copper, iron, manganese) from their natural metal-binding sites can catalyze the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide via the Fenton reaction and generate damaging ROS such as hydroxyl radicals, causing damage to lipids, proteins, and DNA. Conversely, some heavy metals, such as cadmium, can suppress the synthesis of nitric oxide radical (NO·), manifested by altered vasorelaxation and, consequently, blood pressure regulation. Pb-induced oxidative stress has been shown to be indirectly responsible for the depletion of nitric oxide due to its interaction with superoxide radical (O2·-), resulting in the formation of a potent biological oxidant, peroxynitrite (ONOO-). This review comprehensively discusses the mechanisms of heavy metal toxicity and their health effects. Aluminum (Al), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), and chromium (Cr) and their roles in the development of gastrointestinal, pulmonary, kidney, reproductive, neurodegenerative (Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases), cardiovascular, and cancer (e.g. renal, lung, skin, stomach) diseases are discussed. A short account is devoted to the detoxification of heavy metals by chelation via the use of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), dimercaprol (BAL), 2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA), 2,3-dimercapto-1-propane sulfonic acid (DMPS), and penicillamine chelators.
- MeSH
- Antioxidants metabolism MeSH
- Bioaccumulation MeSH
- Environmental Pollutants toxicity MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Oxidative Stress * drug effects MeSH
- Metals, Heavy * toxicity MeSH
- Environmental Exposure adverse effects MeSH
- Animals MeSH
- Check Tag
- Humans MeSH
- Animals MeSH
- Publication type
- Journal Article MeSH
- Review MeSH
Super-resolution (SR) microscopy is a cutting-edge method that can provide detailed structural information with high resolution. However, the thickness of the specimen has been a major limitation for SR methods, and large biological structures have posed a challenge. To overcome this, the key step is to optimise sample preparation to ensure optical homogeneity and clarity, which can enhance the capabilities of SR methods for the acquisition of thicker structures. Oocytes are the largest cells in the mammalian body and are crucial objects in reproductive biology. They are especially useful for studying membrane proteins. However, oocytes are extremely fragile and sensitive to mechanical manipulation and osmotic shocks, making sample preparation a critical and challenging step. We present an innovative, simple and sensitive approach to oocyte sample preparation for 3D STED acquisition. This involves alcohol dehydration and mounting into a high refractive index medium. This extended preparation procedure allowed us to successfully obtain a unique two-channel 3D STED SR image of an entire mouse oocyte. By optimising sample preparation, it is possible to overcome current limitations of SR methods and obtain high-resolution images of large biological structures, such as oocytes, in order to study fundamental biological processes. Lay Abstract: Super-resolution (SR) microscopy is a cutting-edge tool that allows scientists to view incredibly fine details in biological samples. However, it struggles with larger, thicker specimens, as they need to be optically clear and uniform for the best imaging results. In this study, we refined the sample preparation process to make it more suitable for SR microscopy. Our method includes carefully dehydrating biological samples with alcohol and then transferring them into a mounting medium that enhances optical clarity. This improved protocol enables high-resolution imaging of thick biological structures, which was previously challenging. By optimizing this preparation method, we hope to expand the use of SR microscopy for studying large biological samples, helping scientists better understand complex biological structures.
Mužská neplodnost je komplexní stav s mnoha etiologickými faktory, včetně hormonálních, anatomických, genetických a vlivů životního stylu. Přestože se mužský faktor podílí až na 40 % případů neplodnosti, přesná příčina zůstává často neznámá (tzv. idiopatická neplodnost). Současné diagnostické metody zahrnují detailní klinické vyšetření, analýzu ejakulátu, hormonální profil, genetické testování a zobrazovací techniky. Výrazný pokrok byl zaznamenán v oblasti testování fragmentace DNA spermií a měření oxidačního stresu, jež poskytují širší pohled na kvalitu spermií. Terapeutické postupy se liší podle příčiny neplodnosti – od farmakologické léčby a chirurgických intervencí až po asistovanou reprodukci. Rychle se rozvíjející výzkum v oblasti regenerativní a genové terapie slibuje nové možnosti léčby. Nedílnou součástí prevence i léčby je rovněž zdravý životní styl a management rizikových faktorů.
Male infertility is a multifactorial condition influenced by hormonal, anatomical, genetic, and lifestyle factors. Although the male factor contributes to up to 40% of infertility cases, the exact etiology often remains unknown (so-called idiopathic infertility). Current diagnostic approaches include detailed clinical evaluation, semen analysis, hormonal assessment, genetic testing, and imaging techniques. Significant progress has been achieved in sperm DNA fragmentation testing and oxidative stress evaluation, offering a broader insight into sperm quality. Treatment strategies vary depending on the underlying cause, ranging from pharmacological therapy and surgical interventions to assisted reproductive technologies. Rapid advances in regenerative medicine and gene therapy show promise for novel therapeutic options. A healthy lifestyle and risk factor management are integral to both prevention and treatment.
- MeSH
- Semen Analysis MeSH
- Andrology trends MeSH
- Reproductive Techniques, Assisted MeSH
- Diagnostic Techniques and Procedures classification MeSH
- DNA Fragmentation MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Infertility, Male * diagnosis etiology therapy MeSH
- Oxidative Stress MeSH
- Check Tag
- Humans MeSH
- Male MeSH
- Publication type
- Review MeSH
INTRODUCTION: This was a single-center pilot study that sought to describe an innovative use of 4DryField® PH (premix) for preventing the recurrence of intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) after hysteroscopic adhesiolysis in patients with Asherman's syndrome (AS). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty-three patients with AS were enrolled and 20 were randomized (1:1 ratio) to intrauterine application of 4DryField® PH (n = 10) or Hyalobarrier® gel (n = 10) in a single-blind manner. We evaluated IUAs (American Fertility Society [AFS] score) during initial hysteroscopy and second-look hysteroscopy one month later. Patients completed a follow-up symptoms questionnaire three and reproductive outcomes questionnaire six months later. RESULTS: The demographic and clinical characteristics, as well as severity of IUAs, were comparable in both groups. The mean initial AFS score was 9 and 8.5 in the 4DryField® PH and Hyalobarrier® gel groups, respectively (p = .476). There were no between-group differences in AFS progress (5.9 vs. 5.6, p = .675), need for secondary adhesiolysis (7 vs. 7 patients, p = 1), and the follow-up outcomes. CONCLUSION: 4DryField® PH could be a promising antiadhesive agent for preventing the recurrence of IUAs, showing similar effectiveness and safety to Hyalobarrier® gel. Our findings warrant prospective validation in a larger clinical trial. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY NUMBER: ISRCTN15630617.
- MeSH
- Tissue Adhesions prevention & control MeSH
- Adult MeSH
- Gels * MeSH
- Gynatresia prevention & control MeSH
- Hysteroscopy * methods MeSH
- Single-Blind Method MeSH
- Hyaluronic Acid administration & dosage MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Uterine Diseases prevention & control surgery MeSH
- Pilot Projects MeSH
- Recurrence MeSH
- Secondary Prevention methods MeSH
- Check Tag
- Adult MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Female MeSH
- Publication type
- Journal Article MeSH
- Randomized Controlled Trial MeSH
- Comparative Study MeSH
Shrnutí současných poznatků o použití skleroterapie v léčbě endometriomu a jejím vlivu na ovariální rezervu. Endometrióza postihuje 10–15 % žen ve fertilním věku. Přítomnost a terapie endometriomu ovlivňuje ovariální rezervu a díky tomu i koncepční možnosti pacientek. Management komplikují rovněž četné recidivy. Všechny standardně používané chirurgické metody vedou ke snížení ovariální rezervy. Současný klinický výzkum je zaměřen na vývoj metod, které by ovariální rezervu snižovaly co nejméně. Skleroterapie ethanolem je relativně novou alternativní metodou k dosud používaným chirurgickým metodám, převážně exstirpaci. Nejedná se zatím o standardní výkon. Tento článek si klade za cíl shrnout dosavadní poznatky o užití skleroterapie v léčbě endometriomu a její vliv na ovariální rezervu. Studie zahrnuté v tomto přehledovém článku vycházejí z databází PubMed a Scopus. Dle dosud publikovaných prací je skleroterapie relativně jednoduchou metodou, která umožňuje řešit endometriomy i bez operace a celkové anestezie, pokud je prováděna pod ultrazvukovou kontrolou. Má podobnou míru recidiv jako laparoskopická exstirpace a ve srovnání s ní při ní nedochází k většímu poklesu ovariální rezervy. Skleroterapii lze provádět transvaginálně, transabdominálně či laparoskopicky. Tato práce shrnuje dosavadní poznatky o vlivu skleroterapie na ovariální rezervu.
To summarize current knowledge on the use of sclerotherapy in the treatment of endometriomas and its effect on ovarian reserve. Endometriosis affects 10–15% of women of reproductive age. The presence and treatment of endometriomas influence ovarian reserve, and therefore the conception possibilities of patients. The management is further complicated by frequent recurrences. All standard surgical methods lead to a reduction in ovarian reserve. Current clinical research is focused on developing methods that minimize the reduction of ovarian reserve. Ethanol sclerotherapy is a relatively new alternative to the currently used surgical methods, mainly extirpation. It is not yet a standard procedure. This article aims to summarize the current knowledge regarding the use of sclerotherapy in the treatment of endometriomas and its effect on ovarian reserve. The studies included in this review article are based on PubMed and Scopus databases. According to published works, sclerotherapy is a relatively simple method that allows treating endometriomas without surgery and general anaesthesia if performed under ultrasound guidance. It has a similar recurrence rate as laparoscopic extirpation and does not lead to a greater reduction in ovarian reserve compared to the latter. Sclerotherapy can be performed trans-vaginally, trans-abdominally, or laparoscopically. This paper summarizes the current knowledge on the impact of sclerotherapy on ovarian reserve.
- MeSH
- Anti-Mullerian Hormone analysis MeSH
- Endometriosis * diagnosis drug therapy classification MeSH
- Gynecologic Surgical Procedures methods MeSH
- Laparoscopy methods MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Ovarian Reserve MeSH
- Sclerotherapy * classification methods MeSH
- Check Tag
- Humans MeSH
- Female MeSH
- Publication type
- Review MeSH
Endometrióza je velmi komplikované chronické onemocnění s vysokou prevalencí mezi ženami fertilního věku, které výrazným způsobem ovlivňuje kvalitu jejich života i schopnost otěhotnět. V klinické praxi se stále častěji setkáváme s pokročilými stadii onemocnění, zejména ve formě hluboké endometriózy, která mohou vést nejen k výrazným symptomům, ale i orgánovému postižení. Cílem článku je shrnout současné poznatky o patologických procesech vedoucích k fibrózním změnám, jež stojí za nejzávažnějšími nálezy. Zároveň je teoretickým základem běžícího výzkumného projektu zaměřeného na identifikaci molekulárních markerů stojících právě za nejtěžšími formami endometriózy, které by mohly pomoci v predikci progrese onemocnění.
Endometriosis is a complex chronic disorder with a high prevalence among women of reproductive age, significantly affecting both their quality of life and ability to conceive. In clinical settings, there is an increasing incidence of advanced disease stages, particularly deep infiltrating endometriosis, which not only produces severe clinical symptoms, but also results in organ involvement. This article aims to synthesize current insights into the pathological mechanisms underlying fibrotic remodelling, which is associated with the most severe manifestations of the disease. Furthermore, it provides the theoretical framework for an ongoing research project aimed at identifying molecular biomarkers implicated in the most advanced forms of endometriosis, with the potential to enhance prediction of disease progression.
- MeSH
- Biomarkers metabolism MeSH
- Endometriosis * diagnosis genetics complications MeSH
- Fibrosis * diagnosis etiology genetics MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 analysis MeSH
- Pathology, Molecular methods MeSH
- Check Tag
- Humans MeSH
- Female MeSH
- Publication type
- Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't MeSH
- Review MeSH
OBJECTIVES: Having adequate level of health literacy is a very powerful tool of improving health. "Emerging adulthood" is described as a period between age of 18-25 years, characterized by changing life circumstances, developing personality and exploring possibilities. The aim of this study was to establish the relationship between health literacy and socioeconomic status of young adults in Serbia and their individual influence on the reproductive health and sexual behaviour. METHODS: This research was conducted as observational, cross-sectional study. We used STOFHLA to assess the health literacy level of young people and general information questionnaire for demographic, social and economic characteristics of respondents, health knowledge and behaviour in the area of reproductive health. Chi-square test was performed to assess the existence of association between categorical variables using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). RESULTS: Results of our research found significant connection between levels of health literacy and age groups, marital status, but also connection with living in rural place. Socio-demographic factors and health literacy levels had significant impact on various aspects of sexual behaviour and reproductive health knowledge. CONCLUSION: The importance of this research is reflected in its contribution to a clearer understanding of the impact of health literacy and socioeconomic status on the reproductive health of young people in Serbia, with the aim of improving public policies, health interventions and educational programmes, which would contribute to reducing health inequalities, improving health outcomes, and developing targeted educational initiatives.
- MeSH
- Adult MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Adolescent MeSH
- Young Adult MeSH
- Cross-Sectional Studies MeSH
- Surveys and Questionnaires MeSH
- Reproductive Health * statistics & numerical data MeSH
- Sexual Behavior * statistics & numerical data MeSH
- Socioeconomic Factors MeSH
- Social Class * MeSH
- Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice MeSH
- Health Literacy * statistics & numerical data MeSH
- Check Tag
- Adult MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Adolescent MeSH
- Young Adult MeSH
- Male MeSH
- Female MeSH
- Publication type
- Journal Article MeSH
- Observational Study MeSH
- Geographicals
- Serbia MeSH
Atogepant je selektivní perorální antagonista receptoru pro peptid související s genem kaLcitoninu (calcitonine gene-related peptide, CGRP) schválený pro preventivní Léčbu epizodické i chronické migrény. Indikační kritéria jsou shodná s kritérii pro monoklonální protilátky. Pro krátký biologický poločas eliminace je vhodný zejména u mladých žen v reprodukčním věku. Jeho podávání je jednoduché a pohodlné. Účinnost a dobrý bezpečnostní profil byly prokázány v klinických studiích. Je dalším z velmi slibných terapeutických možností pro pacienty s migrénou.
Atogepant is a selective oral calcitonine gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist approved for the preventive treatment of episodic and chronic migraine. Indication criteria are identical to those for monoclonal antibodies. Due to its short biological elimination half-life, it is particularly suitable for young women of reproductive age. Its administration is simple and convenient. Efficacy and good safety profile have been demonstrated in clinical trials. Atogepant is another very promising therapeutic option for migraine patients.
The objective of our in vitro study was to quantify the biochemical profile where the total polyphenol, flavonoid and phenolic acid content was determined. The antioxidant potential of microgreen extract from Trigonella foenum-graecum L., was measured molybdenum reducing power assay. Specifically, the study assessed parameters such as metabolic activity (AlamarBlueTM assay), membrane integrity (CFDA-AM assay), mitochondrial potential (JC-1 assay), as well as reactive oxygen species generation (NBT assay). In addition, the steroid hormone release in TM3 murine Leydig cells after 12 h and 24 h exposures were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The gained results indicate the highest value in total flavonoid content (182.59+/-2.13 mg QE) determination, supported by a significant (108.25+/-1.27 mg TE) antioxidant activity. The effects on metabolic activity, cell membrane integrity, and mitochondrial membrane potential were found to be both time- and dose-dependent. Notably, a significant suppression in reactive oxygen species generation was confirmed at 150, 200 and 250 microg/ml after 24 h exposure. In addition, progesterone and testosterone release was stimulated up to 250 microg/ml dose of Trigonella, followed by a decline in both steroid production at 300 and 1000 microg/ml. Our results indicate, that Trigonella at lower experimental doses (up to 250 microg/ml) may positively affect majority of monitored cell parameters in TM3 Leydig cells. Overleaf, increasing experimental doses may negatively affect the intracellular parameters already after 12 h of in vitro exposure. Key words Microgreens, Trigonella foenum-graecum L., Fenugreek, Leydig cells, Male reproduction.
- MeSH
- Antioxidants pharmacology MeSH
- Cell Line MeSH
- Phytochemicals pharmacology MeSH
- Leydig Cells * drug effects metabolism MeSH
- Membrane Potential, Mitochondrial drug effects MeSH
- Mice MeSH
- Reactive Oxygen Species metabolism MeSH
- Plant Extracts * pharmacology MeSH
- Testosterone metabolism MeSH
- Trigonella * chemistry MeSH
- Animals MeSH
- Check Tag
- Male MeSH
- Mice MeSH
- Animals MeSH
- Publication type
- Journal Article MeSH
Vitamin D hraje velice významnou roli pro lidské zdraví. Jeho nedostatek je spojen s mnoha zdravotními komplikacemi. Obecně je ale méně známý jeho vliv na reprodukci a sexuální funkce mužů i žen. V článku přinášíme přehledné informace o této problematice a informujeme i o možnostech suplementace vitaminu D. Suplementace vitaminu D je pro zdraví a kvalitu života přínosná téměř ve všech oblastech. Nejúčinnější je léčba přípravky na lékařský předpis. Nová možnost léčby kalcifediolem je ještě efektivnější a bezpečnější volbou.
Vitamin D plays a very significant role in human health. Its deficiency is associated with many health complications. However, its influence on reproduction and sexual function in both men and women is generally less known. This article provides an overview of this issue and informs about the possibilities of vitamin D supplementation. Vitamin D supplementation is beneficial for health and quality of life in almost all areas. The most effective treatment is with prescription drugs. A new treatment option with calcifediol is an even more effective and safer choice.
- MeSH
- Avitaminosis etiology drug therapy MeSH
- Erectile Dysfunction drug therapy prevention & control MeSH
- Fertility drug effects MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Menstrual Cycle metabolism drug effects MeSH
- Premature Ejaculation drug therapy prevention & control MeSH
- Reproductive Health * MeSH
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome drug therapy MeSH
- Testosterone physiology MeSH
- Vitamin D * physiology metabolism MeSH
- Check Tag
- Humans MeSH
