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Published on: November 30, 2016
Association between microRNA expression and risk of male idiopathic infertility in Iraq
Manal Mohammed Khadhim1, Abbas Ali Manshd2
1Al-Qadisiyah University, College of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology - Diwaniya, Iraq.
Objective:
The World Health Organization defines infertility as the inability to get pregnant after 12 months of unprotected sexual activity. This study was conducted to estimate the levels of gene expression for two mature miRNAs (i.e., miR-122 and miR-34c-5p) to evaluate susceptibility to male infertility.
Methods:
This study included 50 male patients with idiopathic infertility who were admitted to hospital from the period November 2021 to May 2022 and another group consisting of 50 apparently healthy individuals used as controls.
Results:
miR-122 level was significantly highest in azoospermia and followed by oligospermia, 39.22 (31.88) versus 37.34 (20.45), respectively. In addition, there was a very significant difference in miR-34c-5p levels between the study groups (p<0.05).
Conclusion:
Two miRNAs, namely, miR-34c-5p and miR-122, can be used as predictive and diagnostic biomarkers for infertility.
Insights
Two microRNAs (miRNAs), miR-122 and miR-34c-5p, show potential as biomarkers for male infertility. Their expression levels differ significantly in men with infertility, suggesting diagnostic value.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Molecular Genetics
- Biomarker Discovery
Background:
- Infertility affects millions globally, with male factors contributing significantly.
- Idiopathic infertility lacks a clear cause, necessitating novel diagnostic approaches.
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are emerging as key regulators in reproductive health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify gene expression levels of miR-122 and miR-34c-5p in males with idiopathic infertility.
- To assess the potential of these miRNAs as predictive and diagnostic biomarkers for male infertility.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 50 males with idiopathic infertility and 50 healthy controls.
- Analysis of miR-122 and miR-34c-5p expression levels using quantitative methods.
- Statistical analysis to determine significant differences between groups.
Main Results:
- miR-122 levels were highest in azoospermia, followed by oligospermia.
- Significant differences in miR-34c-5p levels were observed between infertile patients and controls (p<0.05).
Conclusions:
- miR-122 and miR-34c-5p demonstrate potential as reliable biomarkers for male infertility.
- These miRNAs could aid in the diagnosis and prediction of infertility in males.
- Further research is warranted to validate their clinical utility.
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