MUC4 gene polymorphism and expression in women with implantation failure

Authors: Koscinski, Isabelle; Viville, Stephane; Porchet, Nicole; Bernigaud, Annie; Escande, Fabienne; Defossez, Andre; Buisine, Marie-Pierre

Source: Human Reproduction, Volume 21, Number 9, September 2006 , pp. 2238-2245(8)

Publisher: Oxford University Press

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Abstract:

INTRODUCTION: The molecular mechanism of human embryo implantation is poorly understood. The role of MUC4 mucin, present in endometrial epithelium, has never been explored, and results obtained in animal studies strongly suggest a role in implantation. We investigated the role of MUC4 in human embryo implantation. METHODS AND RESULTS: We analysed the MUC4 variable number of tandem repeat (VNTR) polymorphism in three populations by Southern blot analysis: spontaneously fertile patients (C), infertile patients with repeated unexplained implantation failures after IVF (IF) and patients with a child after IVF (IVF-C). We found no differences in the size or allelic distribution of MUC4 VNTR between these three populations. We also examined, in IVF-C and IF groups, the endometrial expression of MUC4 mRNA as well as the expression of the MUC4 glycoprotein together with estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR). No expression differences could be detected. However, we noticed a pattern of expression for MUC4 protein, which is limited to patches of cells in the luminal and glandular epithelium. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that the different-sized MUC4 alleles do not interfere with implantation. The absence of coexpression of MUC4 and the steroid receptors suggests that MUC4 expression is not directly regulated by steroids.

Keywords: endometrium; implantation failure; infertility polymorphism; MUC4

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/humrep/del189

Publication date: 2006-09-01

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Human Reproduction features full-length, peer-reviewed papers reporting original research, clinical case histories, as well as opinions and debates on topical issues. Papers published cover the scientific and medical aspects of reproductive physiology and pathology, endocrinology, andrology, gonad function, gametogenesis, fertilization, embryo development, implantation, pregnancy, genetics, genetic diagnosis, oncology, infectious disease, surgery, contraception, infertility treatment, psychology, ethics and social issues. The highest scientific and editorial standard is maintained throughout the journal along with a rapid rate of publication.

MUC4 gene polymorphism and expression in women with implantation failure

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