Brain Connectivity, Brain Function, Neural Activity, Neurodynamics
Conditions
Keywords
Menstrual Cycle, Ovarian Stimulated Cycle, Endocrine Profile, neural activity, neurodynamics
Brief summary
The investigators aim is to investigate the brain's dynamic complexity across three phases of an ovarian stimulation cycle (basal, pre-OPU, mid-luteal), to observe the impact of externally administered hormones, and compare it with the corresponding phases of a natural menstrual cycle (early follicular, pre-ovulatory, mid-luteal) in the same woman. Brain activity patterns will be examined using resting-state fMRI in a sample of young, healthy, naturally cycling women.
Detailed description
The investigators seeks to fill a significant gap in our understanding of the impact of ovarian stimulation on brain dynamics, an area that has not been previously explored. By investigating the brain's dynamic complexity across controlled ovarian stimulation cycle the investigators aim to shed light on how externally administered hormones influence brain activity patterns. Utilizing resting-state Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging to examine a sample of young, healthy, naturally cycling women, this research will provide crucial insights into the safety and neurophysiological effects of ovarian stimulation. Understanding these effects is essential for ensuring the well-being of women undergoing oocyte freezing and other fertility treatments.
Interventions
DIAGNOSTIC_TESTFunctional Magnetic resonance imaging will be done on day 2 or 3 of the menstrual cycle, trigger-shot and egg retrieval.
Functional Magnetic resonance imaging will be done on day 2 or 3 of the menstrual cycle, trigger-shot and egg retrieval.
Sponsors
ART Fertility Clinics LLC
Khalifa University for Science and Technology
New York University Abu Dhabi
Study design
Observational model
CASE_ONLY
Time perspective
PROSPECTIVE
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
FEMALE
Age
25 Years to 35 Years
Healthy volunteers
Yes
Inclusion criteria
* Age group: 25 - 35 years old * BMI: 20 - 30 * Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH): 1.3 - 5.9 ng/ml * Regular Menstrual Cycle: 26-35 days * In case of previous use of hormonal contraception: wash-out period of 3 month * Meet standard safety and eligibility criteria for MRI scanning, including the absence of contraindications such as metallic implants, claustrophobia, or other medical conditions that preclude MRI
Exclusion criteria
* History of ovarian surgery * Pathology of the ovaries * Mental health disorders * Use of medication influencing brain function * Ongoing use of hormonal contraception (this would include OCP, but also patches and Mirena containing IUD)
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Brain activity using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). | Measure at three cycle points: basal (day 2-3), ovulation (during ovulation or day after trigger-shot), and at luteal phase (7-10 days after ovulation or trigger shot). | Comparison of brain activity between the natural menstrual cycle and a stimulated cycles using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) at three cycle points. |
Secondary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Hormonal levels (Estradiol, LH, FSH, Progesterone) fluctuation. | Measure at three cycle points: basal (day 2-3), ovulation (during ovulation or day after trigger-shot), and at luteal phase (7-10 days after ovulation or trigger shot). | Analyze relation of hormonal fluctuations (Estradiol, LH, FSH, Progesterone) at three cycle points with brain dynamics and neural connectivity. |
| Whole genome sequencing of patient. | Day 1 - baseline saliva sample collection. | Sequence patient's genome using saliva sampling to observes the genetic basis of fertility traits, to identify genetic variants associated with various neural and fertility phenotypes. |
Countries
United Arab Emirates
Contacts
CONTACTRaquel Del Gallego, PhD
Outcome results
None listed