The possible regulatory role of miR-4463 and its target gene on the ovarian response in the women with diminished ovarian reserve: A case-control study.

BACKGROUND

Diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) is a condition that affects fertility by reducing the reproductive potential of the ovary. The altered expression profile of cumulus cells (CCs) can negatively affect the quality and quantity of oocytes in the ovaries. Recent studies suggest that circulating miRNAs play a significant role in the ovary function, and their serum expression changes can be valuable biomarkers for predicting ovarian function.

OBJECTIVE

Investigating the expression levels of circulating miRNA-4463 and its target cytochrome P450 19A1 gene () in DOR-CCs in order to find a molecular pathway involved in DOR.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this case-control study, a total of 20 DOR-women and 20 women with normal ovarian reservation aged between 20-34 yr referred to Yazd Reproductive Science Institute, Yazd, Iran were included in the study. Serum and CCs were collected, and real time-polymerase chain reaction was performed to investigate the expression level of miR-4463 and its target gene .

RESULTS

Our results showed an inverse relationship between miR-4463 and expression levels. Therefore, the increase in the expression of miR-4463 was significantly evident in DOR-women compared to the control group (p = 0.0019), while the expression of its target gene, has significantly decreased in these women (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The present study suggests that miR-4463 and pathways could regulate ovary function. Therefore, examination of this miRNA could be a promising parameter for predicting ovarian reserve and their response to stimulation protocols.