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Soluble HLA-G molecules in follicular fluid: A tool for oocyte selection in IVF?

Abstract Currently, different approaches are used to select oocytes for in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures, but they do not assure a significant association with the pregnancy outcome. Since several studies have proposed the expression of HLA-G antigens in early embryos to be a possible marker...

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Published in:Journal of reproductive immunology 2007-06, Vol.74 (1), p.133-142
Main Authors: Rizzo, R, Fuzzi, B, Stignani, M, Criscuoli, L, Melchiorri, L, Dabizzi, S, Campioni, D, Lanza, F, Marzola, A, Branconi, F, Noci, I, Baricordi, O.R
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Language:English
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Summary:Abstract Currently, different approaches are used to select oocytes for in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures, but they do not assure a significant association with the pregnancy outcome. Since several studies have proposed the expression of HLA-G antigens in early embryos to be a possible marker of elevated implantation rate, we have investigated the presence of soluble HLA-G molecules in 50 follicular fluids (FFs). The results have shown soluble HLA-G antigens (sHLA-G) in 19/50 (38%) FFs. Furthermore, we have related the presence of sHLA-G molecules in FFs to detection of the soluble antigens in culture supernatants of the corresponding fertilized oocyte, evidencing a significant relationship ( p = 1.3 × 10−6 ; Fisher exact p -test). Specific ELISA and Western blot approaches identified both HLA-G5 and soluble HLA-G1 molecules in FFs while immunocytochemical analysis indicated polymorphonuclear-like and granulosa cells as responsible for production of sHLA-G1 and HLA-G5 molecules. In contrast, only sHLA-G1 antigens were detected in culture supernatants of fertilized oocytes. Overall, these results suggest a role for sHLA-G molecules in the ovulatory process and propose the FFs analysis for sHLA-G molecule presence as a useful tool for oocyte selection in IVF.
ISSN:0165-0378
1872-7603
DOI:10.1016/j.jri.2007.02.005