Could the defects in the endometrial extracellular matrix during the implantation be a cause for impaired fertility?

PROBLEM

Assessment of concentration of the metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (TIMP1), urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) and its receptor (uPAR) and leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF) in the uterine fluid in women with idiopathic infertility and unknown cause for recurrent miscarriage.

METHOD OF STUDY

Uterine fluid obtained from patients with idiopathic infertility (n = 13), patients with unknown cause of recurrent miscarriages (n = 16) and healthy fertile women (n = 14). The assessment of MMP9, TIMP1, uPA, uPAR and LIF were performed with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

Statistically lower expression of MMP9 and TIMP1 in uterine fluid during implantation window in women with infertility and recurrent miscarriage of unknown cause.

CONCLUSION

Changed turnover of the extracellular matrix might be a cause of improper endometrial transition and in effect cause faulty implantation.