Evaluation of endometrial receptivity by measuring HOXA-10, HOXA-11, and leukemia inhibitory factor expression in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome

Abstract

Context: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an important cause of infertility. In women with PCOS have increased rate of spontaneous abortion and reduced rate of conception. HOXA–10 and HOXA–11 are proteinous products of homeobox gene group and play an important role during implantation. Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate endometrial receptivity by measuring HOXA–10, HOXA–11, and leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) gene expressions in women with PCOS. Settings and Design: A tertiary referral center. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on reproductive age women with abnormal uterine bleeding without sonographically proven anatomical reason. Endometrial sampling procedures were done in proliferative phase using low-pressure endometrial suction device to exclude endometrial pathology. HOXA–10, HOXA–11, and LIF gene expressions were measured from endometrial sampling material. Blood sample was taken to measure serum estradiol level on the day of endometrial sampling. Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software version 17 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Mann–Whitney U-test was used to compare the variables. Results: A total of 53 patients were included in this study. Study group consisted of 33 patients with PCOS. Gene expressions of HOXA–10, HOXA–11, and LIF were significantly lower in patients with PCOS (P < 0.05). Conclusions: This study results showed that in patients with PCOS have decreased gene expression of HOXA-10, HOXA-11, and LIF which might contribute PCOS-related infertility.

Keywords

• Leukemia inhibitory factor
• HOXA-10
• HOXA-11
• infertility
• polycystic ovary syndrome