Cyclic FEE peptide increases human gamete fusion and potentiates its RGD-induced inhibition.

Background: Alpha6beta1 integrin has been proposed to act as a sperm receptor on the mouse oocyte by interacting with spermatozoon fertilin beta. We investigated, in humans, whether oocyte integrins could act similarly in gamete fusion, using a cyclic peptide containing the putative disintegrin-binding domain of human fertilin beta [cyclic FEE (cFEE)] and RGD peptide.

Methods: Zona-free eggs were inseminated in the absence or presence of peptides.

[Leucocytospermia, oxidative stress and male fertility: facts and hypotheses].

Leukocytospermia is frequent and significantly increased (over 10(6)/ml) in 20% of male factor infertility. It induces the production of highly toxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) which impair genital track accessory glands and sperm cell functions. The seminal medium contains extremely potent antioxidative defenses which usually balance the oxidative stress.

[Prospective randomized single-blind trial comparing oral sodium phosphate with polyethylene glycol for colonoscopy preparation].

Aim And Methods: The aim of this prospective, randomized, study performed in 60 outpatients was to compare 2 precolonoscopy bowel preparations: oral sodium phosphate (NaP) versus standard polyethylene glycol-based lavage solution (PEG). None of the patients met any of NaP exclusion criteria. All patients were prepared on the day prior to colonoscopy.