Detecting microplastics in women's reproductive cells during fertility treatment
Detection of Microplastics in Human Granulosa Cells and in the Follicular Fluid of Women Undergoing Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) Treatment
This study is trying to see if tiny pieces of plastic are found in the reproductive cells of women getting fertility treatment to understand how it might affect their health and ability to conceive.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | Infertility Treatment Center Dortmund Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Dortmund, NRW) |
| Trial ID | NCT05179993 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to investigate the presence of microplastics in human granulosa cells and follicular fluid from women undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment. The research will analyze samples using advanced techniques such as Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy to assess the potential accumulation of microplastics in reproductive tissues. Given the rising concerns about environmental pollutants, this study seeks to understand the implications of microplastics on female fertility and overall reproductive health.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are women aged 18 and older who are undergoing ICSI treatment.
Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing ICSI treatment or are under 18 years of age may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into the impact of environmental pollutants on female fertility, potentially leading to improved reproductive health strategies.
How similar studies have performed: While the investigation of microplastics in reproductive tissues is novel, studies have shown the negative impact of microplastics on reproduction in other species, indicating potential relevance to human health.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * The patients to be included should be ≥18 years of age undergoing an intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment. There is no upper limit for patient age. Exclusion Criteria: * none
Where this trial is running
Dortmund, NRW
- Infertility treatment center Dortmund — Dortmund, Nrw, Germany (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Stefan Dieterle, MD — Infertility Treatment Center Dortmund
- Study coordinator: Stefan Dieterle, MD
- Email: dieterle@kinderwunschzentrum.org
- Phone: 00492315575450
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.