Related Experiment Videos
Soluble L-selectin levels during controlled ovarian hyperstimulation
R Orvieto1, Z Ben-Rafael, A Schwartz
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tiqva, Israel.
Summary
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) administration during controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) activates neutrophils, indicated by rising soluble L-selectin levels. This immune response correlates with progesterone, suggesting a link between luteinization and neutrophil activation in COH.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Immunology
- In Vitro Fertilization
Background:
- Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) is a key component of in vitro fertilization (IVF).
- Neutrophil activation, a component of the immune response, has been hypothesized to play a role in COH.
- Soluble L-selectin is a marker of neutrophil activation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate neutrophil activation during COH using soluble L-selectin levels.
- To explore the correlation between soluble L-selectin and serum sex steroid levels during COH.
Main Methods:
- Study included 14 patients undergoing a standard IVF long GnRH analog protocol.
- Blood samples were collected at three time points: Day-S (suppression), Day-hCG (hCG administration), and Day-OPU (ovum pick-up).
- Soluble L-selectin, estradiol, progesterone, and hCG levels were measured using ELISA and other assays.
Main Results:
- Soluble L-selectin levels were significantly higher on Day-OPU compared to Day-S and Day-hCG.
- Soluble L-selectin levels were significantly lower on Day-hCG compared to Day-S.
- A positive correlation was observed between soluble L-selectin and serum progesterone levels, but not with estradiol or hCG.
Conclusions:
- hCG administration during COH induces neutrophil activation.
- Neutrophil activation during COH correlates with the degree of luteinization, as indicated by progesterone levels.
- Further research is needed to understand the immune system's role in COH and its potential clinical applications.