Release of sICAM-1 in oocytes and in vitro fertilized human embryos

Abstract
Background: During the last years, several studies have reported the significant relationship between the production of soluble HLA-G molecules (sHLA-G) by 48-72 hours early embryos and an increased implantation rate in IVF protocols. As consequence, the detection of HLA-G modulation was suggested as a marker to identify the best embryos to be transferred. On the opposite, no suitable markers are available for the oocyte selection.
Conclusions/significance: The reduction of the number of fertilized oocytes and transferred embryos represents the main target of assisted reproductive medicine. We propose sICAM-1 as a biochemical marker for oocyte maturation and grading, with a possible interesting rebound in assisted reproduction techniques.

Autori: Monica Borgatti, Roberta Rizzo, Maria Beatrice Dal Canto, Daniela Fumagalli, Mario Mignini Renzini, Rubens Fadini, Marina Stignani, Olavio Roberto Baricordi, Roberto Gambari