An Exploratory Study of Matrix Metalloproteinase Protein Changes in Unexplained Infertility

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Biochemistry
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are implicated in reproductive complications, including female infertility.
• This study investigates MMPs in women with unexplained infertility (UI) versus male factor infertility (MFI).

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the association between circulating matrix metalloproteinase levels and unexplained infertility.
• To compare MMP profiles in women with UI against a control group with male factor infertility (MFI).

Main Methods:

• A pilot study involving 25 women undergoing IVF (11 UI, 14 MFI).
• Plasma protein levels of 12 MMPs were measured using SOMA-scan on day 21 of the luteal phase.
• Statistical analyses included Welch's t-test, permutation tests, and Pearson's correlations.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in demographics or IVF response parameters between UI and MFI groups.
• Women with UI exhibited significantly lower MMP-3 levels (p=0.045) compared to MFI.
• Elevated levels of MMP-1 (p=0.007) and MMP-17 (p=0.010) were observed in women with UI versus MFI.

Conclusions:

• Circulating MMP-1, MMP-3, and MMP-17 profiles appear altered in women with unexplained infertility.
• These findings suggest a potential role for specific MMPs in the pathophysiology of UI.
• Further research in larger cohorts, including endometrial tissue analysis, is warranted to confirm these results.