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Endometrial immune markers are potential predictors of normal fertility and pregnancy after in vitro fertilization
Author(s) -
Kofod Louise,
Lindhard Anette,
Bzorek Michael,
Eriksen Jens Ole,
Larsen Lise Grupe,
Hviid Thomas Vauvert F.
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
american journal of reproductive immunology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.071
H-Index - 97
eISSN - 1600-0897
pISSN - 1046-7408
DOI - 10.1111/aji.12684
Subject(s) - endometrium , hydrosalpinx , andrology , pregnancy , reproductive immunology , infertility , immune system , in vitro fertilisation , endometrial biopsy , population , biology , foxp3 , human leukocyte antigen , reproductive technology , gynecology , immunology , embryo , medicine , antigen , cryopreservation , endocrinology , environmental health , genetics , microbiology and biotechnology
Problem Elucidating immune mechanisms in the endometrium, which lead to the success of implantation and pregnancy, is important in reproductive medicine. Studies of immune cell abundance have shown conflicting results, and the expression and importance of HLA class Ib proteins in pre‐implantation endometrium have not yet been investigated. Method of study The study population consisted of four subgroups: a hydrosalpinx, a salpingectomy, an unexplained infertility, and a fertile control group. Endometrial samples were collected during the implantation window. Immune markers ( CD 56 + and CD 16 + cells, FoxP3 + Tregs, HLA ‐G, HLA ‐F) were quantified in the samples. The outcome of the subsequent IVF treatment was recorded. Results Increased CD 56 + uNK cells and high HLA ‐G expression served as predictor for successful pregnancy outcome. HLA ‐F expression was positively correlated with uNK cells, being indirectly predictive for achieving pregnancy. Conclusion Endometrial uNK cell abundance in the pre‐implantation endometrium seems to be important for normal fertility and pregnancy success, and they may be used as clinical markers to predict implantation success in IVF .