Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2026
Collection of Human Follicular Fluid, Follicle Somatic Cells, and Immature Oocytes from Individuals Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization
Published on: October 24, 2025
Concentrations of leptin and C-reactive protein in serum and follicular fluid during assisted reproductive cycles
D M Wunder1, R Kretschmer, N A Bersinger
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Berne, Switzerland. dorothea.wunder@insel.ch
Background:
There are only a few studies that have investigated inflammatory processes during ovarian hyperstimulation, with contradictory results especially concerning outcome. The aim of the study was to investigate the inflammatory markers C-reactive protein and leptin in serum and follicular fluid and to correlate these with the outcome.
Methods:
One hundred and sixty-two gonadotrophin stimulated cycles were evaluated. Serum concentrations of leptin and C-reactive protein were measured at the initiation of stimulation, on the day of hCG administration or the day before, and on the day of oocyte retrieval. They were also determined in the follicular fluid.
Results:
Serum leptin and C-reactive protein levels increased significantly during stimulation until the day of oocyte pick up, but following different patterns. After stimulation, they correlated with each other in serum and follicular fluid, but not with estradiol or progesterone concentration, embryo quality, or the pregnancy rate.
Conclusions:
Leptin and C-reactive protein levels change significantly during assisted reproductive treatment. In contrast to estradiol they are, however, not a marker of success.
