The organs of the adult reproductive system can undergo extensive remodelling, experiencing rapid changes in tissue mass and function. Much of this matrix remodelling is attributed to the action of matrix metalloproteinases. Matrix metalloproteinase family members are expressed in a highly-regulated manner in many reproductive processes, including menstruation, ovulation, implantation, and uter...

Farm animals are exposed to zearalenone through the feed because of the widespread occurrence of this mycotoxin in cereals and clinical reproductive disorders due to mycotoxin effects are often reported in farm animal species. This review describes the metabolism, the mechanistic aspects, the clinical reproductive symptoms and the in vitro effects on functional parameters of oocytes and sperm c...

There is debate regarding whether fibroids cause infertility or if they are simply an association. However, it is possible that fibroids are responsible for 2-3% of cases of infertility. The mechanisms by which these benign tumours could cause impaired reproductive function, both in terms of difficulty conceiving and early pregnancy loss, remain unclear. Myomectomy facilitates removal of a fibr...

Diets can alter the concentrations of circulating hormones such as insulin and IGF-I. Such responsive hormones are related directly to nutritional status and moreover, directly or indirectly, associated with reproductive function and fertility. Metabolic hormones are involved in follicular development, number and size of ovarian structures, circulating concentrations of steroid hormones, durati...

Introduction Causes of impaired female reproductive function Environmental Endocrine Disrupters and Ovarian Function Indications of reproductive function preservation Choice of the method for ovarian function preservation Cryopreservation of Oocytes Introduction The need for oocyte cryopreservation Cryobiological factors influencing cryoefficiency Oocyte structures affected by cryopreservation ...

© 1999 Journals of Reproduction and Fertility 1359-6004/99 $15.00 Leptin is a peptide produced by adipocytes and achieves hormonal status by virtue of its secretion into the bloodstream (Considine et al., 1996). It is a potent satiety factor (Campfield et al., 1995; Halaas et al., 1995) but may serve other functions, such as the regulation of neuroendocrine systems and the gonads. This brief re...

We report here the toxic effects of chlorpyrifos, a broad-spectrum organophosphorous insecticide, on female reproductive function in rat model. We observed significant alterations in the rhythmicity and phasic cellular characteristics of estrous cycle with a concomitant increase in diestrus index in chlorpyrifos treated female rats in a dosedependent manner (5.4 and 8.1 mg/Kg.b.wt./day) compare...

Mild-to-moderate alcohol use has numerous negative consequences for female reproductive function. Animal studies have shown that alcohol consumption disrupts female puberty, and drinking during this period also may affect growth and bone health. Beyond puberty, alcohol has been found to disrupt normal menstrual cycling in female humans and animals and to affect hormonal levels in postmenopausal...