BMP15 mutations in XX gonadal dysgenesis and premature ovarian failure.

OBJECTIVE

Premature ovarian failure (POF) is a heterogeneous group of diseases with amenorrhea before the age of 40 years and elevated gonadotropins. Recently, heterozygous mutations in the X-linked gene encoding bone morphogenetic protein-15 (BMP15) have been identified as a possible cause of ovarian failure.

STUDY DESIGN

Molecular analysis of BMP15, growth differentiation factor-9 (GDF9), and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) in patients with ovarian failure.

RESULTS

We can show that a BMP15 alteration, previously described as a mutation, is instead a polymorphism. A digenic inheritance of POF including BMP15 and FSHR is unlikely. Mutations in GDF9 could not be detected.

CONCLUSION

Caution is recommended in the interpretation of BMP15 mutations in the context of POF.