Methods of inducing ovulation
AssigneeMerck Serono SA
InventorsStephen Palmer, Sean McKenna, Mark Tepper, Aliza Eshkol, Michael C. MacNamee
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Abstract
The present invention relates to methods of inducing ovulation in a female host comprising the administration of a non-polypeptide cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) level modulator to the female host. In another aspect, the invention provides for specific administration of the phosphodiesterase inhibitor prior to the luteal phase of the host's ovulatory cycle. Preferred non-polypeptide cAMP level modulators include phosphodiesterase inhibitors, particularly inhibitors of phosphodiesterase 4 isoforms.
Claims24
A method of collecting oocytes for in vitro fertilization comprising steps a, b, and c:
- (a) administering an agent which increases follicle stimulating hormone concentrations to a female host during the follicular phase of the host's ovulatory cycle;
- (b) administering an inhibitor of a selective phosphodiesterase 4 isoform to the host prior to the luteal phase of the host's ovulatory cycle;
- and
- (c) collecting oocytes from the host.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.