Cell adhesion molecules and in vitro fertilization.

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine and Biology
• Cell Biology
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

Background:

• Current embryo selection criteria in IVF require enhancement with more predictive markers.
• Non-invasive techniques are crucial for maximizing information extraction to identify embryos with the highest implantation potential.
• Trends like elective single embryo transfer necessitate improved embryo assessment methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) in IVF success.
• To explore CAMs as potential non-invasive predictive markers for embryo selection.
• To categorize and present research on CAMs in assisted reproductive technologies.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive review of published research studies on CAMs in IVF.
• Analysis of CAMs' association with IVF-related conditions and outcomes.
• Examination of CAM levels in various biological samples within the IVF setting.

Main Results:

• CAMs are implicated in various aspects of IVF, including ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, endometrium status, and tubal pregnancies.
• CAM levels have been measured in follicular fluid, trophectoderm, granulosa cells, oocytes, and embryos.
• Research highlights the involvement of CAMs in fertilization, embryogenesis, implantation, and placentation.

Conclusions:

• CAMs, already used diagnostically in other pathologies, could serve as prognostic markers in assisted reproduction.
• Integrating CAMs into non-invasive selection criteria can enrich IVF protocols.
• Further research into CAMs' role can significantly improve infertility treatment and management.