Mara Simopoulou, Associate Professor

Research Group

 

The Unit of Physiology of Reproduction & Clinical Embryology is based at the Department of Physiology of the Medical School of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens under the supervision of the Associate Professor of Physiology and Embryology Dr. Mara Simopoulou. Currently, the group consists of eight active members, including a Post-doctoral Research Fellow, three PhD Candidates and four Postgraduate Students.

Dr. Evangelos Maziotis Ph.D., Molecular Biologist-Geneticist, Post-doctoral Research Fellow

Anna Rapani M.Sc., Reproductive Biologist, Ph.D Candidate

Sokratis Grigoriadis M.Sc., Reproductive Biologist, Ph.D Candidate

Kalliopi Pistola M.Sc., Molecular Biologists-Geneticist, Ph.D Candidate

Amalia Kotsifaki B.Sc., Biologist, M.Sc. Student

Anna Trypidi B.Sc., Molecular Biologists-Geneticist, M.Sc. Student

Paraskevi Xystra B.Sc., Biologist, M.Sc. Student

Despoina Charitaki B.Sc, Biologist, M.Sc. Student

 

Field of Research

The Unit’s research focuses on the areas of Physiology of Reproduction, Infertility, Assisted Reproduction and Clinical Embryology. More specifically the research work focuses on the following areas: understanding the perplexing pathophysiological mechanisms of ovarian dysfunction and poor ovarian response, the investigation of the efficiency of innovative therapies for the treatment of ovarian dysfunction emphasizing on Reproductive Regenerative Medicine approaches, the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis, the diagnosis and treatment of chronic endometritis, the evaluation of Preimplantation Genetic Testing, the investigation of the influence of various pathological conditions on the physiology of the reproductive system, the evaluation of new methods for assessing embryo developmental potential emphasizing on time-lapse technology and artificial intelligence (AI), assessment of innovative methods for addressing abnormalfertilization of oocytes, the development of new methods for improving in vitro maturation of immature oocytes and the understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in supporting early embryo development enhancing embryo implantation potential.

 

Educational Work in the field of Clinical Embryology

The Unit of Physiology of Reproduction & Clinical Embryology has been providing in recent years significant educational work aiming at the specialized, thorough, and in-depth training of Bioscientists and Health Scientists in the fields of Clinical Embryology, Preimplantation Genetics and Reproductive Medicine.

In 2021, in collaboration with the Center of Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning of the National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, , the first Specialized Course in Clinical Embryology & Preimplantation Embryo Physiology was founded by Associate Professor Dr. Mara Simopoulou. This International Course is unique in Greece and one of the few Postgraduate Training Programs focusing on the Preimplantation Embryo worldwide, providing specialized knowledge on a variety of topics related to Clinical Embryology, from Embryo and Gamete Cryopreservation Banks to Preimplantation Genetic Testing. More than 80 renowned Academics, Researchers and Clinical Scientists serve as instructors from Greece, Italy, Spain, UAE, Australia, UK, USA. The instructors, cover a wide range of disciplines, providing a complete and thorough educational experience. From October 2022 the Course is offered at the International Level with the title ”Advanced Clinical Embryology”, addressing trainees from at least 10 different countries. For more information you can visit the following link: https://clinicalembryology.cce.uoa.gr/.

Kicking off from the Academic Year 2022-2023 and within the framework of the Master of Science Programme ”Molecular & Applied Physiology”, for the first time in Greece a specialization in ”Clinical Embryology and Preimplantation Embryo Genetics” is offered. For more information you can visit the following link:

https://www.molecularandappliedphysiologymedicaluoa.com/about-5

 

Published papers in Peer-Reviewed International Journals

  1. Agarwal A, Gupta S, Sharma RK, Finelli R, Kuroda S, Vij SC, Boitrelle F, Kavoussi P, Rambhatla A, Saleh R, Chung E, Mostafa T, Zini A, Ko E, Parekh N, Martinez M, Arafa M, Tadros N, de la Rosette J, Le TV, Rajmil O, Kandil H, Blecher G, Liguori G, Caroppo E, Ho CCK, Altman A, Bajic P, Goldfarb D, Gill B, Zylbersztejn DS, Molina JMC, Gava MM, Cardoso JPG, Kosgi R, Çeker G, Zilaitiene B, Pescatori E, Borges E, Duarsa GWK, Pinggera GM, Busetto GM, Balercia G, Franco G, Çalik G, Sallam HN, Park HJ, Ramsay J, Alvarez J, Khalafalla K, Bowa K, Hakim L, Simopoulou M, et al. Post-Vasectomy Semen Analysis: Optimizing Laboratory Procedures and Test Interpretation through a Clinical Audit and Global Survey of Practices. World J Mens Health. 2022 Jul;40(3):425-441. doi: 10.5534/wjmh.210191. Epub 2022 Jan 2. PMID: 35021311; PMCID: PMC9253792.
  2. Agarwal A, Sharma R, Gupta S, Finelli R, Parekh N, Panner Selvam MK, Henkel R, Durairajanayagam D, Pompeu C, Madani S, Belo A, Singh N, Covarrubias S, Darbandi S, Sadeghi R, Darbandi M, Vogiatzi P, Boitrelle F, Simopoulou M, et al. Sperm Morphology Assessment in the Era of Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection: Reliable Results Require Focus on Standardization, Quality Control, and Training. World J Mens Health. 2022 Jul;40(3):347-360. doi: 10.5534/wjmh.210054.
  3. Simopoulou M, Galatis D, Maziotis E, Pantou A, Giannelou P, Grigoriadis S, Tzonis P, Griva T, Zikopoulos A, Philippou A, Koutsilieris M, Pantos K, Sfakianoudis K. Development of a predictive model for luteal phase oocyte retrieval in poor responders undergoing natural cycle IVF. Sci Rep. 2022 May 11;12(1):7695. doi: 10.1038/s41598-022-11602-0.
  4. Agarwal A, Sharma RK, Gupta S, Boitrelle F, Finelli R, Parekh N, Durairajanayagam D, Saleh R, Arafa M, Cho CL, Farkouh A, Rambhatla A, Henkel R, Vogiatzi P, Tadros N, Kavoussi P, Ko E, Leisegang K, Kandil H, Palani A, Salvio G, Mostafa T, Rajmil O, Banihani SA, Schon S, Le TV, Birowo P, Çeker G, Alvarez J, Molina JMC, Ho CCK, Calogero AE, Khalafalla K, Duran MB, Kuroda S, Colpi GM, Zini A, Anagnostopoulou C, Pescatori E, Chung E, Caroppo E, Dimitriadis F, Pinggera GM, Busetto GM, Balercia G, Elbardisi H, Taniguchi H, Park HJ, Maldonado Rosas I, de la Rosette J, Ramsay J, Bowa K, Simopoulou M, et al. Sperm Vitality and Necrozoospermia: Diagnosis, Management, and Results of a Global Survey of Clinical Practice. World J Mens Health. 2022 Apr;40(2):228-242. doi: 10.5534/wjmh.210149. Epub 2021 Oct 13.
  5. Sharma R, Gupta S, Agarwal A, Henkel R, Finelli R, Parekh N, Saleh R, Arafa M, Ko E, Zini A, Tadros N, Shah R, Ambar RF, Elbardisi H, Sengupta P, Martinez M, Boitrelle F, Simopoulou M, et al. Relevance of Leukocytospermia and Semen Culture and Its True Place in Diagnosing and Treating Male Infertility. World J Mens Health. 2022 Apr;40(2):191-207. doi: 10.5534/wjmh.210063.
  6. Gupta S, Sharma R, Agarwal A, Parekh N, Finelli R, Shah R, Kandil H, Saleh R, Arafa M, Ko E, Simopoulou M, et al. Comprehensive Guide to Sperm Recovery in Infertile Men with Retrograde

Ejaculation. World J Mens Health. 2022 Apr;40(2):208-216. doi: 10.5534/wjmh.210069.

  1. Sfakianoudis K, Maziotis E, Grigoriadis S, Pantou A, Kokkini G, Trypidi A, Giannelou P, Zikopoulos A, Angeli I, Vaxevanoglou T, Pantos K, Simopoulou M. Reporting on the Value of Artificial Intelligence in Predicting the Optimal Embryo for Transfer: A Systematic Review including Data Synthesis. Biomedicines. 2022 Mar 17;10(3):697. doi: 10.3390/biomedicines10030697.
  2. Pantos K, Grigoriadis S, Maziotis E, Pistola K, Xystra P, Pantou A, Kokkali G, Pappas A, Lambropoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Simopoulou M. The Role of Interleukins in Recurrent Implantation Failure: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature. Int J Mol Sci. 2022 Feb 16;23(4):2198. doi: 10.3390/ijms23042198.
  3. Deftereou TE, Tsolou A, Liberis A, Georgiadi K, Alexiadis T, Pagonopoulou O, Alexiadi CA, Simopoulou M, Tripsianis G, Lambropoulou M. Differential apoptotic activity in trophoblast of spontaneous abortions and normal pregnancies. Folia Histochem Cytobiol. 2022;60(1):24-30. doi: 10.5603/FHC.a2022.0003.
  4. Agarwal A, Farkouh A, Parekh N, Zini A, Arafa M, Kandil H, Tadros N, Busetto GM, Ambar R, Parekattil S, Boitrelle F, Sallam H, Jindal S, Ko E, Simopoulou M, Park HJ, Sadighi MA, Saleh R, Ramsay J, Martinez M, Elbardisi H, Alvarez J, Colpi G, Gosalvez J, Evenson D, Shah R. Sperm DNA Fragmentation: A Critical Assessment of Clinical Practice Guidelines. World J Mens Health. 2022 Jan;40(1):30-37. doi: 10.5534/wjmh.210056.
  5. Anifandis G, Samara M, Simopoulou M, Messini CI, Chatzimeletiou K, Thodou E, Daponte A, Georgiou I. Insights into the Role of Telomeres in Human Embryological Parameters. Opinions Regarding IVF. J Dev Biol. 2021 Nov 13;9(4):49. doi: 10.3390/jdb9040049.
  6. Sfakianoudis K, Rapani A, Grigoriadis S, Pantou A, Maziotis E, Kokkini G, Tsirligkani C, Bolaris S, Nikolettos K, Chronopoulou M, Pantos K, Simopoulou M. The Role of Uterine Natural Killer Cells on Recurrent Miscarriage and Recurrent Implantation Failure: From Pathophysiology to Treatment. Biomedicines. 2021 Oct 9;9(10):1425. doi: 10.3390/biomedicines9101425
  7. Kalampokas T, Rapani A, Papageorgiou M, Grigoriadis S, Maziotis E, Anifandis G, Triantafyllidou O, Tzanakaki D, Neofytou S, Bakas P, Simopoulou M, Vlahos N. The Current Evidence Regarding COVID-19 and Pregnancy: Where Are We Now and Where Should We Head to Next? Viruses. 2021 Oct 5;13(10):2000. doi: 3390/v13102000.
  8. Siristatidis C, Tzanakaki D, Simopoulou M, Vaitsopoulou C, Tsioulou P, Stavros S, Papapanou M, Drakakis P, Bakas P, Vlahos N. Empty Zona Pellucida Only Case: A Critical Review of the Literature. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021 Sep 6;18(17):9409. doi: 10.3390/ijerph18179409.
  9. Pantou A, Giannelou P, Grigoriadis S, Maziotis E, Tzonis P, Koutsouni A, Pappa C, Philippou A, Koutsilieris M, Pantos K, Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K. Evaluating different strategies for poor ovarian response management: a retrospective cohort study and literature review. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2021 Sep;1500(1):93-111. doi: 10.1111/nyas.14614.
  10. Harper JC, Hammarberg K, Simopoulou M, Koert E, Pedro J, Massin N, Fincham A, Balen A; International Fertility Education Initiative. The International Fertility Education Initiative: research and action to improve fertility awareness. Hum Reprod Open. 2021 Aug 25;2021(4):hoab031. doi: 10.1093/hropen/hoab031.
  11. Sfakianoudis K, Maziotis E, Karantzali E, Kokkini G, Grigoriadis S, Pantou A, Giannelou P, Petroutsou K, Markomichali C, Fakiridou M, Koutsilieris M, Asimakopoulos B, Pantos K, Simopoulou M. Molecular Drivers of Developmental Arrest in the Human Preimplantation Embryo: A Systematic Review and Critical Analysis Leading to Mapping Future Research. Int J Mol Sci. 2021 Aug 3;22(15):8353. doi: 10.3390/ijms22158353.
  12. Pantos K, Simopoulou M, Maziotis E, Rapani A, Grigoriadis S, Tsioulou P, Giannelou P, Nitsos N, Tzonis P, Koutsilieris M, Sfakianoudis K. Introducing intrauterine antibiotic infusion as a novel approach in effectively treating chronic endometritis and restoring reproductive dynamics: a randomized pilot study. Sci Rep. 2021 Aug 2;11(1):15581. doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-95072-w.
  13. Anifandis G, Messini CI, Simopoulou M, Sveronis G, Garas A, Daponte A, Messinis IE. SARS-CoV-2 vs. human gametes, embryos and cryopreservation. Syst Biol Reprod Med. 2021 Aug;67(4):260-269. doi: 10.1080/19396368.2021.1922537.
  14. Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Maziotis E, Tsioulou P, Grigoriadis S, Rapani A, Giannelou P, Asimakopoulou M, Kokkali G, Pantou A, Nikolettos K, Vlahos N, Pantos K. PGT-A: who and when? Α systematic review and network meta-analysis of RCTs. J Assist Reprod Genet. 2021 Aug;38(8):1939-1957. doi: 10.1007/s10815-021-02227-9.
  15. Pantos K, Grigoriadis S, Tomara P, Louka I, Maziotis E, Pantou A, Nitsos N, Vaxevanoglou T, Kokkali G, Agarwal A, Sfakianoudis K, Simopoulou M. Investigating the Role of the microRNA-34/449 Family in Male Infertility: A Critical Analysis and Review of the Literature. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2021 Jul 1;12:709943. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2021.709943.
  16. Pantos K, Sfakianoudis K, Maziotis E, Rapani A, Karantzali E, Gounari-Papaioannou A, Vaxevanoglou T, Koutsilieris M, Simopoulou M. Abnormal fertilization in ICSI and its association with abnormal semen parameters: a retrospective observational study on 1855 cases. Asian J Androl. 2021 Jul- Aug;23(4):376-385. doi: 10.4103/aja.aja_84_20.
  17. Sfakianoudis K, Tsioulou P, Maziotis E, Grigoriadis S, Glava A, Nitsos N, Giannelou P, Makrakis E, Pantou A, Rapani A, Koutsilieris M, Mastorakos G, Pantos K, Simopoulou M. Investigating apoptotic, inflammatory, and growth markers in poor responders undergoing natural in vitro fertilization cycles: a pilot study. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2021 Apr;1489(1):78-90. doi: 10.1111/nyas.14517.
  18. Kotsakis GA, Black R, Kum J, Berbel L, Sadr A, Karoussis I, Simopoulou M, Daubert D. Effect of implant cleaning on titanium particle dissolution and cytocompatibility. J Periodontol. 2021 Apr;92(4):580-591. doi: 10.1002/JPER.20-0186.
  19. Simopoulou M, Rapani A, Grigoriadis S, Pantou A, Tsioulou P, Maziotis E, Tzanakaki D, Triantafyllidou O, Kalampokas T, Siristatidis C, Bakas P, Vlahos N. Getting to Know Endometriosis-Related Infertility Better: A Review on How Endometriosis Affects Oocyte Quality and Embryo Development. Biomedicines. 2021 Mar 9;9(3):273. doi: 10.3390/biomedicines9030273
  20. Anifandis G, Tempest HG, Oliva R, Swanson GM, Simopoulou M, Easley CA, Primig M, Messini CI, Turek PJ, Sutovsky P, Ory SJ, Krawetz SA. COVID-19 and human reproduction: A pandemic that packs a serious punch. Syst Biol Reprod Med. 2021 Feb;67(1):3-23. doi: 10.1080/19396368.2020.1855271.
  21. Rapani A, Nikiforaki D, Karagkouni D, Sfakianoudis K, Tsioulou P, Grigoriadis S, Maziotis E, Pantou A, Voutsina A, Pantou A, Koutsilieris M, Hatzigeorgiou A, Pantos K, Simopoulou M. Reporting on the Role of miRNAs and Affected Pathways on the Molecular Backbone of Ovarian Insufficiency: A Systematic Review and Critical Analysis Mapping of Future Research. Front Cell Dev Biol. 2021 Jan 12;8:590106. doi: 10.3389/fcell.2020.590106.
  22. Maziotis E, Sfakianoudis K, Giannelou P, Grigoriadis S, Rapani A, Tsioulou P, Nikolettos K, Pantou A, Tiptiri-Kourpeti A, Koutsilieris M, Asimakopoulos B, Nikolettos N, Pantos K, Simopoulou M. Evaluating the value of day 0 of an ICSI cycle on indicating laboratory outcome. Sci Rep. 2020 Nov 9;10(1):19325. doi: 10.1038/s41598-020-75164-9.
  23. Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Giannelou P, Rapani A, Siristatidis C, Bakas P, Vlahos N, Pantos K. Navigating assisted reproduction treatment in the time of COVID-19: concerns and considerations. J Assist Reprod Genet. 2020 Nov;37(11):2663-2668. doi: 10.1007/s10815-020-01942-z.
  24. Giannelou P, Simopoulou M, Grigoriadis S, Makrakis E, Kontogeorgi A, Pantou A, Galatis D, Kalampokas T, Bakas P, Bolaris S, Pantos K, Sfakianoudis K. The Conundrum of Poor Ovarian Response: From Diagnosis to Treatment. Diagnostics (Basel). 2020 Sep 11;10(9):687. doi: 10.3390/diagnostics10090687.
  25. Konstantopoulos A, Sfakianoudis K, Simopoulou M, Kontogeorgi A, Rapani A, Grigoriadis S, Pantou A, Bathrellos N, Grammatis A, Pantos K. Early Onset Preeclampsia Diagnosis Prior to the 20th Week of Gestation in a Twin Pregnancy Managed via Selective Reduction of an Intrauterine Growth Restriction Fetus: A Case Report and Literature Review. Diagnostics (Basel). 2020 Jul 29;10(8):531. doi: 10.3390/diagnostics10080531.
  26. Grigoriadis S, Maziotis E, Vlahos N, Simopoulou M. New insights in addressing endometrial dysfunction: the potential role of growth hormone. Ann Transl Med. 2020 Jul;8(14):841. doi: 10.21037/atm.2020.04.53.
  27. Sfakianoudis K, Simopoulou M, Grigoriadis S, Pantou A, Tsioulou P, Maziotis E, Rapani A, Giannelou P, Nitsos N, Kokkali G, Koutsilieris M, Pantos K. Reactivating Ovarian Function through Autologous Platelet-Rich Plasma Intraovarian Infusion: Pilot Data on Premature Ovarian Insufficiency, Perimenopausal, Menopausal, and Poor Responder Women. J Clin Med. 2020 Jun 10;9(6):1809. doi: 10.3390/jcm9061809.
  28. Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Maziotis E, Rapani A, Giannelou P, Pantou A, Anifandis G, Bakas P, Vlahos N, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. Assessing Clinical Embryology Research: A Global Bibliometric Analysis. Medicina (Kaunas). 2020 Apr 26;56(5):210. doi: 10.3390/medicina56050210.
  29. Pantos K, Sfakianoudis K, Grigoriadis S, Maziotis E, Tsioulou P, Rapani A, Giannelou P, Atzampos A, Koulouraki S, Koutsilieris M, Vlahos N, Mastorakos G, Simopoulou M. Could the Age Difference of a Single Calendar Year between Patients Undergoing IVF at 34, 35 or at 36 Years Old Affect the IVF Outcome? A Retrospective Data Analysis. Medicina (Kaunas). 2020 Feb 24;56(2):92. doi: 10.3390/medicina56020092.
  30. Pantou A, Sfakianoudis K, Maziotis E, Giannelou P, Grigoriadis S, Tsioulou P, Kokkali G, Koutsilieris M, Pantos K, Simopoulou M. Couples with mild male factor infertility and at least 3 failed previous IVF attempts may benefit from laparoscopic investigation regarding assisted reproduction outcome. Sci Rep. 2020 Feb 11;10(1):2350. doi: 10.1038/s41598-020-59170-5.
  31. Sfakianoudis K, Rapani A, Grigoriadis S, Retsina D, Maziotis E, Tsioulou P, Giannelou P, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M, Vlahos N, Mastorakos G, Simopoulou M. Novel Approaches in Addressing Ovarian Insufficiency in 2019: Are We There Yet? Cell Transplant. 2020 Jan-Dec;29:963689720926154. doi: 10.1177/0963689720926154.
  32. Sfakianoudis K, Pantos K, Grigoriadis S, Rapani A, Maziotis E, Tsioulou P, Giannelou P, Kontogeorgi A, Pantou A, Vlahos N, Koutsilieris M, Simopoulou M. What is the true place of a double stimulation and double oocyte retrieval in the same cycle for patients diagnosed with poor ovarian reserve? A systematic review including a meta-analytical approach. J Assist Reprod Genet. 2020 Jan;37(1):181-204. doi: 10.1007/s10815-019-01638-z.
  33. Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Giannelou P, Rapani A, Maziotis E, Tsioulou P, Grigoriadis S, Simopoulos E, Mantas D, Lambropoulou M, Koutsilieris M, Pantos K, Harper JC. Discarding IVF embryos: reporting on global practices. J Assist Reprod Genet. 2019 Dec;36(12):2447-2457. doi: 10.1007/s10815-019-01592-w.
  34. Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Tsioulou P, Rapani A, Giannelou P, Kiriakopoulos N, Pantou A, Vlahos N, Anifandis G, Bolaris S, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. What will the future hold for artificial organs in the service of assisted reproduction: prospects and considerations. Front Med. 2019 Dec;13(6):627-638. doi: 10.1007/s11684-019-0697-5.
  35. Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Maziotis E, Tsioulou P, Giannelou P, Grigoriadis S, Pantou A, Anifandis G, Christopoulos P, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. Investigating the Optimal Time for Intrauterine Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Infusion in Order to Improve IVF Outcome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. In Vivo. 2019 Nov-Dec;33(6):1737-1749. doi: 10.21873/invivo.11664.
  36. Sfakianoudis K, Simopoulou M, Rapani A, Grigoriadis S, Maziotis E, Giannelou P, Pantou A, Vaxevanoglou T, Fakiridou M, Koutsilieris M, Pantos K. The Impact of the Economic Recession in Greece on Assisted Reproduction Demand: A Retrospective Longitudinal Study. Medicina (Kaunas). 2019 Sep 29;55(10):654. doi: 10.3390/medicina55100654.
  37. Pantos K, Simopoulou M, Pantou A, Rapani A, Tsioulou P, Nitsos N, Syrkos S, Pappas A, Koutsilieris M, Sfakianoudis K. A Case Series on Natural Conceptions Resulting in Ongoing Pregnancies in Menopausal and Prematurely Menopausal Women Following Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment. Cell Transplant. 2019 Sep-Oct;28(9-10):1333-1340. doi: 10.1177/0963689719859539. Epub 2019 Jul 4.
  38. Kiriakopoulos N, Grigoriadis S, Maziotis E, Philippou A, Rapani A, Giannelou P, Tsioulou P, Sfakianoudis K, Kontogeorgi A, Bakas P, Mastorakos G, Koutsilieris M, Simopoulou M. Investigating Stress Response during Vaginal Delivery and Elective Cesarean Section through Assessment of Levels of Cortisol, Interleukin 6 (IL-6), Growth Hormone (GH) and Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1). J Clin Med. 2019 Jul 27;8(8):1112. doi: 10.3390/jcm8081112.
  39. Kontopoulos G, Simopoulou M, Zervomanolakis I, Prokopakis T, Dimitropoulos K, Dedoulis E, Grigorakis S, Agapitou K, Nikitos E, Rapani A, Vlahos N. Cleavage Stage versus Blastocyst Stage Embryo Transfer in Oocyte Donation Cycles. Medicina (Kaunas). 2019 Jun 20;55(6):293. doi: 10.3390/medicina55060293.
  40. Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Tsioulou P, Rapani A, Maziotis E, Giannelou P, Grigoriadis S, Pantou A, Nikolettos K, Vlahos N, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. Should the flexibility enabled by performing a day-4 embryo transfer remain as a valid option in the IVF laboratory? A systematic review and network meta-analysis. J Assist Reprod Genet. 2019 Jun;36(6):1049-1061. doi: 10.1007/s10815-019-01475-0.
  41. Pantou A, Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Giannelou P, Rapani A, Maziotis E, Grigoriadis S, Tsioulou P, Syrkos S, Souretis K, Koutsilieris M, Pantos K. The Role of Laparoscopic Investigation in Enabling Natural Conception and Avoiding in vitro Fertilization Overuse for Infertile Patients of Unidentified Aetiology and Recurrent Implantation Failure Following in vitro Fertilization. J Clin Med. 2019 Apr 22;8(4):548. doi: 10.3390/jcm8040548.
  42. Sfakianoudis K, Simopoulou M, Maziotis E, Giannelou P, Tsioulou P, Rapani A, Pantou A, Petroutsou K, Angeli I, Deligeoroglou E, Koutsilieris M, Pantos K. Evaluation of the Second Follicular Wave Phenomenon in Natural Cycle Assisted Reproduction: A Key Option for Poor Responders through Luteal Phase Oocyte Retrieval. Medicina (Kaunas). 2019 Mar 14;55(3):68. doi: 10.3390/medicina55030068.
  43. Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Giannelou P, Pierouli A, Rapani A, Maziotis E, Galatis D, Bakas P, Vlahos N, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. Treating Infertility: Current Affairs of Cross-border Reproductive Care. Open Med (Wars). 2019 Mar 12;14:292-299. doi: 10.1515/med-2019-0026.
  44. Sfakianoudis K, Simopoulou M, Nitsos N, Lazaros L, Rapani A, Pantou A, Koutsilieris M, Nikas Y, Pantos K. Successful Implantation and Live Birth Following Autologous Platelet-rich Plasma Treatment for a Patient with Recurrent Implantation Failure and Chronic Endometritis. In Vivo. 2019 Mar- Apr;33(2):515-521. doi: 10.21873/invivo.11504.
  45. Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Maziotis E, Grigoriadis S, Giannelou P, Rapani A, Tsioulou P, Pantou A, Kalampokas T, Vlahos N, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. The Impact of Autoantibodies on IVF Treatment and Outcome: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci. 2019 Feb 19;20(4):892. doi: 10.3390/ijms20040892.
  46. Bakas P, Simopoulou M, Giner M, Tzanakaki D, Deligeoroglou E. Accuracy and efficacy of embryo transfer based on the previous measurement of cervical length and total uterine length. Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2019 Feb;299(2):565-570. doi: 10.1007/s00404-018-4971-6.
  47. Anifandis G, Michopoulos A, Daponte A, Chatzimeletiou K, Simopoulou M, Messini CI, Polyzos NP, Vassiou K, Dafopoulos K, Goulis DG. Artificial oocyte activation: physiological, pathophysiological and ethical aspects. Syst BiolReprod Med. 2019 Feb;65(1):3-11. doi: 10.1080/19396368.2018.1516000.
  48. Sfakianoudis K, Simopoulou M, Nitsos N, Rapani A, Pantou A, Vaxevanoglou T, Kokkali G, Koutsilieris M, Pantos K. A Case Series on Platelet-Rich Plasma Revolutionary Management of Poor Responder Patients. Gynecol Obstet Invest. 2019;84(1):99-106. doi: 10.1159/000491697.
  49. Sfakianoudis K, Simopoulou M, Nitsos N, Rapani A, Pappas A, Pantou A, Chronopoulou M, Deligeoroglou E, Koutsilieris M, Pantos K. Autologous Platelet-Rich Plasma Treatment Enables Pregnancy for a Woman in Premature Menopause. J Clin Med. 2018 Dec 20;8(1):1. doi: 10.3390/jcm8010001.
  50. Sfakianoudis K, Simopoulou M, Nikas Y, Rapani A, Nitsos N, Pierouli K, Pappas A, Pantou A, Markomichali C, Koutsilieris M, Pantos K. Efficient treatment of chronic endometritis through a novel approach of intrauterine antibiotic infusion: a case series. BMC Womens Health. 2018 Dec 5;18(1):197. doi: 10.1186/s12905-018-0688-8.
  51. Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Bakas P, Giannelou P, Papapetrou C, Kalampokas T, Rapani A, Chatzaki E, Lambropoulou M, Lourida C, Deligeoroglou E, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. Postponing Pregnancy Through Oocyte Cryopreservation for Social Reasons: Considerations Regarding Clinical Practice and the Socio-Psychological and Bioethical Issues Involved. Medicina (Kaunas). 2018 Oct 25;54(5):76. doi: 10.3390/medicina54050076.
  52. Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Antoniou N, Maziotis E, Rapani A, Bakas P, Anifandis G, Kalampokas T, Bolaris S, Pantou A, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. Making IVF more effective through the evolution of prediction models: is prognosis the missing piece of the puzzle? Syst Biol Reprod Med. 2018 Oct;64(5):305-323. doi: 10.1080/19396368.2018.1504347.
  53. Karoussis IK, Kyriakidou K, Papaparaskevas J, Vrotsos IA, Simopoulou M, Kotsakis GA. Osteostimulative calcium phosphosilicate biomaterials partially restore the cytocompatibility of decontaminated titanium surfaces in a peri-implantitis model. J Biomed Mater Res B Appl Biomater. 2018 Oct;106(7):2645-2652. doi: 10.1002/jbm.b.34081.
  54. Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Maziotis E, Antoniou N, Rapani A, Anifandis G, Bakas P, Bolaris S, Pantou A, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. Are computational applications the “crystal ball” in the IVF laboratory? The evolution from mathematics to artificial intelligence. J Assist Reprod Genet. 2018 Sep;35(9):1545-1557. doi: 10.1007/s10815-018-1266-6.
  55. Simopoulou M, Philippou A, Maziotis E, Sfakianoudis K, Nitsos N, Bakas P, Tenta R, Zevolis E, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. Association between male Infertility and seminal plasma levels of growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor-1. Andrologia. 2018 Sep;50(7):e13048. doi: 10.1111/and.13048.
  56. Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Tsioulou P, Rapani A, Anifandis G, Pantou A, Bolaris S, Bakas P, Deligeoroglou E, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. Risks in Surrogacy Considering the Embryo: From the Preimplantation to the Gestational and Neonatal Period. Biomed Res Int. 2018 Jul 17;2018:6287507. doi: 10.1155/2018/6287507.
  57. Anifandis G, Katsanaki K, Lagodonti G, Messini C, Simopoulou M, Dafopoulos K, Daponte A. The Effect of Glyphosate on Human Sperm Motility and Sperm DNA Fragmentation. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2018 May 30;15(6):1117. doi: 10.3390/ijerph15061117.
  58. Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Rapani A, Giannelou P, Anifandis G, Bolaris S, Pantou A, Lambropoulou M, Pappas A, Deligeoroglou E, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. Considerations Regarding Embryo Culture Conditions: From Media to Epigenetics. In Vivo. 2018 May-Jun;32(3):451-460. doi: 10.21873/invivo.11261.
  59. Bakas P, Simopoulou M, Giner M, Drakakis P, Panagopoulos P, Vlahos N. Predictive value of repeated measurements of luteal progesterone and estradiol levels in patients with intrauterine insemination and controlled ovarian stimulation. Gynecol Endocrinol. 2017 Oct;33(10):787-790. doi: 10.1080/09513590.2017.1320378.
  60. Simopoulou M, Gkoles L, Bakas P, Giannelou P, Kalampokas T, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. Improving ICSI: A review from the spermatozoon perspective. Syst Biol Reprod Med. 2016 Dec;62(6):359-371. doi: 10.1080/19396368.2016.1229365.
  61. Simopoulou M, Giannelou P, Bakas P, Gkoles L, Kalampokas T, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. Making ICSI Safer and More Effective: A Review of the Human Oocyte and ICSI Practice. In Vivo. 2016 Jul-Aug;30(4):387-400.
  62. Bogiatzi S, Pagonopoulou O, Simopoulou M, Kareli D, Kouskoukis A, Koutka Z, Ipsilantis P, Lialiaris T. The cytogenetic action of ifosfamide, mesna, and their combination on peripheral rabbit lymphocytes: an in vivo/in vitro cytogenetic study. Cytotechnology. 2014 Oct;66(5):753-60. doi: 10.1007/s10616-013-9624-9.
  63. Simopoulou M, Nikolopoulou E, Dimakakos A, Charalabopoulos K, Koutsilieris M. Cell adhesion molecules and in vitro fertilization. In Vivo. 2014 Sep-Oct;28(5):683-90.
  64. Simopoulou M, Asimakopoulos B, Bakas P, Boyadjiev N, Tzanakaki D, Creatsas G. Oocyte and embryo vitrification in the IVF laboratory: a comprehensive review. Folia Med (Plovdiv). 2014 Jul-Sep;56(3):161-9. doi: 10.2478/folmed-2014-0023.
  65. Chouridou E, Lambropoulou M, Koureta M, Balgouranidou I, Nena E, Simopoulou M, Papadopoulos N, Kortsaris A, Chatzaki E. A complete corticotropin releasing factor system localized in human fetal lung. Hormones (Athens). 2014 Apr- Jun;13(2):229-43. doi: 10.1007/BF03401337.
  66. Bouraki G, Metallinou C, Simopoulou M, Charalabopoulos K, Asimakopoulos B. Comparison of nine media in the culture of human ovarian granulosa lutein cells. In Vivo. 2012 Sep-Oct;26(5):823-5.
  67. Grammatikopoulou I, Lambropoulou M, Chatzaki E, Deftereou TE, Lambropoulou V, Simopoulou M, Papadopoulos E, Galazios G, Dimitriou T, Petrou A, Papadopoulos N. Molecular diagnosis of CMV infection in fetal aborted tissues in the region of Thrace. Clin Exp Obstet Gynecol. 2012;39(1):96-102.
  68. Gianisslis G, Simopoulou M, Vakalopoulos I, Zeginiadou T, Tripsianis G, Ktenidou-Kartali S, Nikolettos N, Asimakopoulos B. Serum pattern of circulating soluble receptor of leptin throughout the menstrual cycle. Minerva Ginecol. 2011 Aug;63(4):339-42.
  69. Lialiaris T, Digkas E, Kareli D, Pouliliou S, Asimakopoulos B, Pagonopoulou O, Simopoulou M. Distribution of ABO and Rh blood groups in Greece: an update. Int J Immunogenet. 2011 Feb;38(1):1-5. doi: 10.1111/j.1744-313X.2010.00958.x
  70. Katotomichelakis M, Gouveris H, Tripsianis G, Simopoulou M, Papathanassiou J, Danielides V. Biometric predictive models for the evaluation of olfactory recovery after endoscopic sinus surgery in patients with nasal polyposis. Am J Rhinol Allergy. 2010 Jul-Aug;24(4):276-80. doi: 10.2500/ajra.2010.24.3476.
  71. Tsarouch AK, Papachristou F, Simopoulou MC, Pitiakoudis MS, Sivridis E, Simopoulos CE. Leiomyomas of spermatic cord and testis presenting as hernia–chromosomal analysis. Acta Chir Iugosl. 2010;57(2):27-30. doi:10.2298/aci1002027t.
  72. Lambropoulou M, Limberis V, Koutlaki N, Simopoulou M, Ntanovasilis D, Vandoros GP, Tatsidou P, Kekou I, Koutsikogianni I, Papadopoulos N. Differential expression of tenascin-C in the developing human lung: an immunohistochemical study. Clin Exp Med. 2009 Dec;9(4):333-8. doi: 10.1007/s10238-009-0057-x.
  73. Lialiaris TS, Papachristou F, Mourelatos C, Simopoulou M. Antineoplastic and cytogenetic effects of chlorpromazine on human lymphocytes in vitro and on Ehrlich ascites tumor cells in vivo. Anticancer Drugs. 2009 Sep;20(8):746-51. doi: 10.1097/CAD.0b013e32832f567b.
  74. Danielides V, Katotomichelakis M, Balatsouras D, Riga M, Simopoulou M, Kantas E, Nikolettos N. Evaluation of prognostic factors for olfaction in nasal polyposis treated by endoscopic sinus surgery. Rhinology. 2009 Jun;47(2):172-80.
  75. Katotomichelakis M, Riga M, Davris S, Tripsianis G, Simopoulou M, Nikolettos N, Simopoulos K, Danielides V. Allergic rhinitis and aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease as predictors of the olfactory outcome after endoscopic sinus surgery. Am J Rhinol Allergy. 2009 May-Jun;23(3):348-53. doi: 10.2500/ajra.2009.23.3325.
  76. Danielides V, Katotomichelakis M, Balatsouras D, Riga M, Tripsianis G, Simopoulou M, Nikolettos N. Improvement of olfaction after endoscopic sinus surgery in smokers and nonsmokers. Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol. 2009 Jan;118(1):13-20. doi: 10.1177/000348940911800103.
  77. Asimakopoulos B, Milousis A, Gioka T, Kabouromiti G, Gianisslis G, Troussa A, Simopoulou M, Katergari S, Tripsianis G, Nikolettos N. Serum pattern ofmcirculating adipokines throughout the physiological menstrual cycle. Endocr J. 2009;56(3):425-33. doi: 10.1507/endocrj.k08e-222.
  78. Papachristou F, Simopoulou M, Touloupidis S, Tsalikidis C, Sofikitis N, Lialiaris T. DNA damage and chromosomal aberrations in various types of male factor infertility. Fertil Steril. 2008 Nov;90(5):1774-81. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2007.09.006.
  79. Lialiaris T, Lyratzopoulos E, Papachristou F, Simopoulou M, Mourelatos C, Nikolettos N. Supplementation of melatonin protects human lymphocytes in vitro from the genotoxic activity of melphalan. Mutagenesis. 2008 Sep;23(5):347-54. doi: 10.1093/mutage/gen020. Epub 2008 May 22.
  80. Lambropoulou M, Tamiolakis D, Venizelos I, Alexiadis G, Anastasopoulos G, Limberis V, Galazios G, Tsikouras P, Simopoulou M, Nikolaidou S, Petrakis G, Papadopoulos N. Induction of hepatic haematopoiesis with fibronectin expression by EMT stromal cells during the second trimester of development. Clin Exp Med. 2007 Sep;7(3):115-21. doi: 10.1007/s10238-007-0132-0.
  81. Asimakopoulos B, Nikolettos N, Papachristou DN, Simopoulou M, Al-Hasani S, Diedrich K. Follicular fluid levels of vascular endothelial growth factor and leptin are associated with pregnancy outcome of normal women participating in intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles. Physiol Res. 2005;54(3):263-70.
  82. Nikolettos N, Asimakopoulos B, Simopoulou M, Al-Hasani S, Diedrich K. Gonadotropin releasing hormone antagonists and cryopreservation outcome: a review. Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2004 Sep;270(2):69-73. doi: 10.1007/s00404-003-0597-3.
  83. Nikolettos N, Asimakopoulos B, Simopoulou M, Al-Hasani S. A borderline form of empty follicle syndrome. Case report. Clin Exp Obstet Gynecol. 2004;31(1):79-80. PMID: 14998197.
  84. Nikolettos N, Asimakopoulos B, Simopoulou M, al-Hasani S. GnRH agonist administration after embryo transfer, in long protocol stimulated cycles, prevents ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. A report of five cases. In Vivo. 2003 Nov-Dec;17(6):655-8.
  85. Simopoulou M, Harper JC, Fragouli E, Mantzouratou A, Speyer BE, Serhal P, Ranieri DM, Doshi A, Henderson J, Rodeck CH, Delhanty JD. Preimplantation genetic diagnosis of chromosome abnormalities: implications from the outcome for couples with chromosomal rearrangements. Prenat Diagn. 2003 Aug;23(8):652-62. doi: 10.1002/pd.662. PMID: 12913872.
  86. Asimakopoulos B, Simopoulou M, Al-Hasani S, Nikolettos N. Women with one ovary in in-vitro fertilisation. Folia Med (Plovdiv). 2003;45(1):25-9.
  87. Nikolettos N, Asimakopoulos B, Vakalopoulos I, Simopoulou M. Endometrial fluid accumulation during controlled ovarian stimulation for ICSI treatment. A report of three cases. Clin Exp Obstet Gynecol. 2002;29(4):290-2.
  88. Ruangvutilert P, Delhanty JD, Serhal P, Simopoulou M, Rodeck CH, Harper JC. FISH analysis on day 5 post-insemination of human arrested and blastocyst stage embryos. Prenat Diagn. 2000 Jul;20(7):552-60. doi: 10.1002/1097-0223(200007)20:7<552::aid-pd871>3.0.co;2-f.