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Human autoantibodies recognizing human and mouse preimplantation stages
B O Nilsson1, M Jin, A Larsson
1Department of Human Anatomy, Biomedical Center, Uppsala, Sweden.
American Journal of Reproductive Immunology (New York, N.Y. : 1989)
|September 1, 1996
Summary
Some human sera contain autoantibodies targeting early embryo development. These autoantibodies may cause infertility by directly harming eggs or activating the complement system during assisted conception.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Immunology
- Assisted Reproductive Technology
Background:
- Autoantibodies against human preimplantation embryos can be present in patient sera.
- The role of these autoantibodies in reproductive outcomes is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence of autoantibodies against human preimplantation stages in human sera.
- To determine if these autoantibodies affect egg development or complement activation during assisted conception.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemistry was performed on human and mouse preimplantation stages.
- Mouse morulae were cultured to assess complement activation.
Main Results:
- Autoantibodies against preimplantation stages were detected in some human sera.
- Cross-reacting antibodies between human and mouse preimplantation stages were observed.
- Immune complexes formed on mouse embryos activated complement, damaging the eggs.
Conclusions:
- Natural autoantibodies to preimplantation stages may contribute to reproductive failure.
- This failure could result from direct antibody effects or complement system activation.