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Khattak H, Aleem Husain S, Baker D, Greer I. Use of anticoagulants to improve pregnancy outcomes in couples positive for M2 haplotype: A systematic review. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2024; 296:179-184. [PMID: 38452530 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2024.02.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Placental mediated pregnancy complications (PMPC) are common, often recurring, and pose a significant health risk to mother and fetus. Evidence suggests that the hypercoagulable state associated with many PMPC, could reflect reduced expression of Annexin 5 (ANXA5), a naturally occurring anticoagulant protein in placental tissue. The ANXA5 M2 haplotype is a genetic variant, which results in reduced expression of ANXA5 protein. M2 haplotype carrier couples may therefore be at increased risk of PMPC. Evidence regarding the effectiveness of anticoagulation to prevent PMPC is inconsistent. Furthermore, studies have not selected or stratified for M2 haplotype carriers, in whom there is a predisposition to hypercoagulability, to assess the effectiveness of anticoagulation, which may vary from those without the M2 haplotype. OBJECTIVES AND RATIONALE The aim of this study was to systematically review the current evidence to assess whether anticoagulant treatment improves pregnancy outcomes in couples positive for M2 haplotype. SEARCH METHODS The review was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022343943). A comprehensive literature search was performed using MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane collaboration databases from inception to January 2023. Two reviewers assessed the articles for eligibility and extracted the data simultaneously. Primary outcome was successful pregnancy and live birth. Secondary outcomes included PMPC (implantation failure, miscarriage, pre-eclampsia, preterm birth and fetal growth restriction). OUTCOMES From a pool of 410 references, 10 were selected for full text review, of which three studies (a post hoc analysis of a randomised controlled trial, cohort study and a case report) were included in this review. Included studies comprised of 223 individuals, 129 of whom who received anticoagulation treatment after testing positive for M2 haplotype. The studies collectively showed an improvement in pregnancy outcomes in M2 haplotype positive individuals however, given the heterogeneity of studies, it was not possible to conduct a meta-analysis and draw firm conclusions. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Current evidence is limited, such that the value of screening couples for the M2 haplotype to select or stratify for treatment with prophylactic anticoagulation remains unknown. Thus, further studies including well designed, large, multi-centre randomised controlled trials are required to assess whether anticoagulation treatment will be effective in improving pregnancy outcomes in M2 haplotype couples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hajra Khattak
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Women's Health, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Birmingham, Mindelsohn Way, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TH, UK; Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, University College, London, UK.
| | - Syed Aleem Husain
- Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, Dudley Rd, Birmingham B18 7QH, UK
| | - Deborah Baker
- IHG Pharmaco Ltd, 20-22 Wenlock Road, London N17GU, UK
| | - Ian Greer
- Queen's University Belfast, University Road, Belfast BT7 1NN, Northern Ireland, UK
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2
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Khairy M, Harb H, Eapen A, Melo P, Kazem R, Rajkhowa M, Ndukuwe G, Coomarasamy A. The use of immunomodulation therapy in women with recurrent implantation failure undergoing assisted conception: A multicentre cohort study. Am J Reprod Immunol 2024; 91:e13819. [PMID: 38348954 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) after multiple embryo transfers remains a vexing problem and immunomodulators have been used with conflicting results. This study aims to assess the effect of immunomodulation therapy on live birth rate (LBR) in women with RIF undergoing assisted reproduction treatment (ART). METHOD OF STUDY DESIGN This is a retrospective cohort study in multicentre network of private assisted conception units in the UK. The study included women who had at least two failed attempts of embryo transfers at CARE fertility network in the period from 1997 to 2018. Women in the treatment group had immunomodulator drugs in the form of corticosteroids, low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), and intravenous intralipid (IVIL) infusions, either separately or in combination, after immunological testing, in addition to standard ART whilst women in the control group had only ART without immunomodulators. The primary outcome was LBR per cycle. Secondary outcomes included the rates of clinical pregnancy (CPR), cumulative live birth (CLBR), and miscarriage. RESULTS A total of 27 163 ART cycles fulfilled the inclusion criteria, of which 5083 had immunomodulation treatment in addition to standard ART treatment, and 22 080 had standard ART treatment alone. Women in the treatment group were significantly older (mean age 38.5 vs. 37.1 years, p < .001), and had a higher number of previous failed ART cycles (mean 4.3 vs. 3.8, p < .01). There was a higher LBR in women who received immunomodulation therapy when compared with the control group (20.9% vs. 15.8%, odds ratio [OR] 1.4, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.29-1.53, p < .001). Multivariate regression analysis showed that immunomodulation treatment was a significant independent predictor of live birth after adjusting for other confounders (adjusted OR [aOR] 1.33, 95% CI 1.15-1.54, p < .001). Survival analysis showed a higher CLBR in the treatment group (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.78, 95% CI 1.62-1.94, p < .001). CONCLUSION(S) This study provides evidence of a potential beneficial effect of immunomodulation therapy in women with RIF after immunological testing. There remains a need for high quality, adequately powered multicentre RCTs to robustly address the role of immunomodulation in women with RIF. There is also an urgent need for standardised screening tests for immune disorders that could preclude implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hoda Harb
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
| | - Abey Eapen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, USA
| | - Pedro Melo
- CARE Fertility Birmingham, Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
| | | | | | | | - Arri Coomarasamy
- CARE Fertility Birmingham, Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
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Murad H, Ali B, Twair A, Baghdadi K, Alhalabi M, Abbady AQ. "In House" assays for the quantification of Annexin V and its autoantibodies in patients with recurrent pregnancy loss and in vitro fertilisation failures. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22322. [PMID: 38102468 PMCID: PMC10724132 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49768-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Several studies have been shown that Annexin V (ANXV) autoantibodies concentrations are associated with both early recurrent pregnancy losses (RPLs) or in vitro fertilization failure (IVFf). We investigated the association between ANXV autoantibodies and ANVX levels in RPL, IVFf and normal group women. The study was conducted on 22 female patients with RPLs, 66 patients with IVFf, and 16 normal samples from women who had given birth. ANXV autoantibodies were measured using an ELISA test developed by fixing a homemade recombinant ANXV protein and examined with labeled human antibodies, while ANXV concentrations were measured by a competitive ELISA using a homemade anti ANXV polyclonal antibody. The results showed a clear relationship between the high levels of ANXV autoantibodies and the recurrent abortion. On the other hand, ANXV measurement in those patients showed decreased concentrations compared to normal samples. Negative correlation between ANXV and its autoantibodies levels was reported in almost all patients' samples. Our data supports the possibility that ANXV autoantibodies are a risk factor for reproductive failures associated with both RPLs and/or IVFf and the significant role for ANXV in the maintenance of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossam Murad
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, AECS, P. O. Box 6091, Damascus, Syria.
| | - Bouthina Ali
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, AECS, P. O. Box 6091, Damascus, Syria
| | - Aya Twair
- Division of Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, AECS, P. O. Box 6091, Damascus, Syria
| | - Khaled Baghdadi
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Embryology and Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Damascus University, Damascus, Syria
| | - Marwan Alhalabi
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Embryology and Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Damascus University, Damascus, Syria
| | - Abdul Qader Abbady
- Division of Molecular Biomedicine, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, AECS, P. O. Box 6091, Damascus, Syria
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Peng L, Yang W, Deng X, Bao S. Research progress on ANXA5 in recurrent pregnancy loss. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 153:103679. [PMID: 35964539 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) in fertile women ranges from 1% to 5%, of which about 50% of them are due to unknown causes. The possible pathogenesis of RPL is an urgent problem to be solved in the clinical. Mutations or polymorphisms of certain genes in the coagulation mechanism are associated with susceptibility to thrombotic diseases and are one of the main reasons for the occurrence of RPL. Among them, the ANXA5 gene was newly studied and some single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the promoter region of ANXA5 have been reported to be associated with RPL in multiple races. In this review, we summarized the research progress on the correlation between the SNPs in ANXA5 and RPL, hoping to provide some valuable guidance for the future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liying Peng
- Department of Reproductive Immunology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity & Infant Hospital, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Wanli Yang
- Department of Medical Genetics, The First Rehabilitation Hospital of Shanghai, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xujing Deng
- Department of Reproductive Immunology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity & Infant Hospital, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Shihua Bao
- Department of Reproductive Immunology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity & Infant Hospital, Shanghai 201204, China.
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5
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Sfakianoudis K, Rapani A, Grigoriadis S, Pantou A, Maziotis E, Kokkini G, Tsirligkani C, Bolaris S, Nikolettos K, Chronopoulou M, Pantos K, Simopoulou M. The Role of Uterine Natural Killer Cells on Recurrent Miscarriage and Recurrent Implantation Failure: From Pathophysiology to Treatment. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9101425. [PMID: 34680540 PMCID: PMC8533591 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9101425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine natural killer (uNK) cells constitute a unique uterine leucocyte subpopulation facilitating implantation and maintaining pregnancy. Herein, we critically analyze current evidence regarding the role of uNK cells in the events entailed in recurrent implantation failure (RIF) and recurrent miscarriages (RM). Data suggest an association between RIF and RM with abnormally elevated uNK cells’ numbers, as well as with a defective biological activity leading to cytotoxicity. However, other studies do not concur on these associations. Robust data suggesting a definitive causative relationship between uNK cells and RIF and RM is missing. Considering the possibility of uNK cells involvement on RIF and RM pathophysiology, possible treatments including glucocorticoids, intralipids, and intravenous immunoglobulin administration have been proposed towards addressing uNK related RIF and RM. When considering clinical routine practice, this study indicated that solid evidence is required to report on efficiency and safety of these treatments as there are recommendations that clearly advise against their employment. In conclusion, defining a causative relationship between uNK and RIF–RM pathologies certainly merits investigation. Future studies should serve as a prerequisite prior to proposing the use of uNK as a biomarker or prior to targeting uNK cells for therapeutic purposes addressing RIF and RM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Sfakianoudis
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (A.P.); (M.C.); (K.P.)
| | - Anna Rapani
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
| | - Sokratis Grigoriadis
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
- Assisted Conception Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Agni Pantou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (A.P.); (M.C.); (K.P.)
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
| | - Evangelos Maziotis
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
- Assisted Conception Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Georgia Kokkini
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
| | - Chrysanthi Tsirligkani
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
| | - Stamatis Bolaris
- Assisted Conception Unit, General-Maternity District Hospital "Elena Venizelou", Elenas Venizelou Avenue, 11521 Athens, Greece;
| | - Konstantinos Nikolettos
- Assisted Reproduction Unit of Thrace “Embryokosmogenesis”, Apalos, 68132 Alexandroupoli, Greece;
| | - Margarita Chronopoulou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (A.P.); (M.C.); (K.P.)
| | - Konstantinos Pantos
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (A.P.); (M.C.); (K.P.)
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, Mikras Asias, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.R.); (S.G.); (E.M.); (G.K.); (C.T.)
- Assisted Conception Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 76, Vasilisis Sofias Avenue, 11528 Athens, Greece
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-21-0746-2592
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Coomarasamy A, Dhillon-Smith RK, Papadopoulou A, Al-Memar M, Brewin J, Abrahams VM, Maheshwari A, Christiansen OB, Stephenson MD, Goddijn M, Oladapo OT, Wijeyaratne CN, Bick D, Shehata H, Small R, Bennett PR, Regan L, Rai R, Bourne T, Kaur R, Pickering O, Brosens JJ, Devall AJ, Gallos ID, Quenby S. Recurrent miscarriage: evidence to accelerate action. Lancet 2021; 397:1675-1682. [PMID: 33915096 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(21)00681-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Women who have had repeated miscarriages often have uncertainties about the cause, the likelihood of recurrence, the investigations they need, and the treatments that might help. Health-care policy makers and providers have uncertainties about the optimal ways to organise and provide care. For this Series paper, we have developed recommendations for practice from literature reviews, appraisal of guidelines, and a UK-wide consensus conference that was held in December, 2019. Caregivers should individualise care according to the clinical needs and preferences of women and their partners. We define a minimum set of investigations and treatments to be offered to couples who have had recurrent miscarriages, and urge health-care policy makers and providers to make them universally available. The essential investigations include measurements of lupus anticoagulant, anticardiolipin antibodies, thyroid function, and a transvaginal pelvic ultrasound scan. The key treatments to consider are first trimester progesterone administration, levothyroxine in women with subclinical hypothyroidism, and the combination of aspirin and heparin in women with antiphospholipid antibodies. Appropriate screening and care for mental health issues and future obstetric risks, particularly preterm birth, fetal growth restriction, and stillbirth, will need to be incorporated into the care pathway for couples with a history of recurrent miscarriage. We suggest health-care services structure care using a graded model in which women are offered online health-care advice and support, care in a nurse or midwifery-led clinic, and care in a medical consultant-led clinic, according to clinical needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arri Coomarasamy
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Rima K Dhillon-Smith
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Argyro Papadopoulou
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Maya Al-Memar
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jane Brewin
- Tommy's Charity, Laurence Pountney Hill, London, UK
| | - Vikki M Abrahams
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Ole B Christiansen
- Centre for Recurrent Pregnancy Loss of Western Denmark, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Mary D Stephenson
- University of Illinois Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Program, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Mariëtte Goddijn
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Olufemi T Oladapo
- UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction, Department of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research, WHO, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Debra Bick
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, University of Warwick, Warwick, UK
| | - Hassan Shehata
- Epsom General Hospital, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, Epsom, UK
| | - Rachel Small
- Birmingham Heartlands Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Phillip R Bennett
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Lesley Regan
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Raj Rai
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Tom Bourne
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Rajinder Kaur
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Oonagh Pickering
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jan J Brosens
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Warwick, UK; Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
| | - Adam J Devall
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ioannis D Gallos
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Siobhan Quenby
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Warwick, UK; Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
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7
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Rogenhofer N, Markoff A, Ennerst X, Bogdanova N, Thaler C. Maternal and paternal carriage of the annexin A5 M2 haplotype: a possible risk factor for recurrent implantation failure (RIF). J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 38:235-242. [PMID: 33231792 PMCID: PMC7822994 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01978-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was carried out to determine the potential role of the M2/ANXA5 haplotype as a risk factor for recurrent implantation failure (RIF). Carriage of the M2/ANXA5 haplotype that induces prothrombotic changes has been implicated in failure of early pregnancies and placenta-mediated complications (preeclampsia, IUGR, preterm birth). MATERIAL AND METHODS In the present case control study, 63 couples (females and males) with RIF presenting for IVF/ICSI to the Fertility Center of [masked] were analyzed. RIF was defined as ≥ 4 consecutive failed ART-transfers of ≥ 4 blastocysts or ≥ 8 cleavage-stage embryos of optimal quality and maternal age ≤ 41. Fertile female controls (n = 90) were recruited from the same center. Population controls (n = 533) were drafted from the PopGen biobank, UKSH Kiel. RESULTS Couples carrying the M2/ANXA5 haplotype turned out to have a significantly increased relative risk (RR) for RIF. Compared with female fertile controls, RR was 1.81 with p = 0.037 (OR 2.1, 95%CI 1.0-4.3) and RR was 1.70, with p = 0.004 (OR 2.0, 95%CI 1.2-3.1) compared with population controls (15.4% M2 carriers). Male partners were comparable with RIF females for M2/ANXA5 haplotypes (28.6% vs. 23.8%, p = 0.54). RIF females compared with population controls had a RR of 1.55 (p = 0.09) and RIF males compared with population controls had a RR of 1.9 (p = 0.01). Couples with ≥ 7 failed transfers showed a RR of 1.82 (p = 0.02) compared with population controls. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that maternal as well as paternal M2/ANXA5 haplotype carriages are risk factors for RIF. These results allow new insights into the pathogenesis of RIF and might help to identify relevant risk groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Rogenhofer
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital of the Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, Germany.
| | - Arseni Markoff
- Institute of Human Genetics, UKM and WWU, Muenster, Germany
| | - Xenia Ennerst
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital of the Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Christian Thaler
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital of the Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
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8
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Beltagy A, Trespidi L, Gerosa M, Ossola MW, Meroni PL, Chighizola CB. Anti-phospholipid antibodies and reproductive failures. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 85:e13258. [PMID: 32347616 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS) recapitulates the link between autoimmunity and pregnancy failure: Acquired anti-phospholipid antibodies (aPL) play a pathogenic role in pregnancy complications. The diagnosis of obstetric APS can easily be pursued when women present with laboratory and clinical features fulfilling the international classification criteria. Standard therapeutic approach to obstetric APS consists in the association of anti-platelet agents and anticoagulants. Most patients achieve a live birth thanks to conventional treatment; however, approximately 20% fail to respond and are managed with additional therapeutic tools added on the top of conventional treatment. Surely, a refinement of risk stratification tools would allow early identification of high-risk pregnancies that warrant tailored treatment. In real life, obstetricians and rheumatologists face complex diagnostic scenarios including women with pregnancy morbidities other than those mentioned in classification criteria such as one or two early losses and premature birth after 34 weeks due to preeclampsia or placental insufficiency, women with low-titer aPL not fulfilling criteria laboratory requirements, women with positive non-criteria aPL, asymptomatic aPL carriers, and infertile women found to be aPL-positive. This review focuses on some of the several unanswered questions related to diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic aspects in obstetric APS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa Beltagy
- Experimental Laboratory of Immunological and Rheumatologic Researches, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Cusano Milanino, Milan, Italy.,Immunology and Rheumatology Unit, San Luca Hospital, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Laura Trespidi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fondazione Cà Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Gerosa
- Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Research Center for Adult and Pediatric Rheumatic Diseases, ASST G. Pini & CTO, Milan, Italy.,Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Manuela Wally Ossola
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fondazione Cà Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Pier Luigi Meroni
- Experimental Laboratory of Immunological and Rheumatologic Researches, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Cusano Milanino, Milan, Italy.,Immunology and Rheumatology Unit, San Luca Hospital, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Cecilia B Chighizola
- Experimental Laboratory of Immunological and Rheumatologic Researches, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Cusano Milanino, Milan, Italy.,Immunology and Rheumatology Unit, San Luca Hospital, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
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9
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D'Ippolito S, Ticconi C, Tersigni C, Garofalo S, Martino C, Lanzone A, Scambia G, Di Simone N. The pathogenic role of autoantibodies in recurrent pregnancy loss. Am J Reprod Immunol 2019; 83:e13200. [PMID: 31633847 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present manuscript, we review the recent research investigating the pathogenic association between most studied autoantibodies and recurrent pregnancy loss. Pregnancy loss represents a common obstetric complication occurring in about 15%-25% of all clinically recognized pregnancies. The recurrence of pregnancy loss identifies a distinct clinical entity, that is recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), affecting about 2%-4% of couples. Several factors, including age, chromosomal abnormalities, uterine anomalies, thrombophilic disorders, endocrinopathies, hormonal and metabolic disorders, infections, sperm quality, and lifestyle issues, are involved in RPL. The role of autoantibodies in RPL is only partially determined. In some cases (antiphospholipid antibodies [aPL]), their involvement is well established. In other cases (anti-thyroid autoantibodies, antinuclear, anti-transglutaminase, and anti-endomysial antibodies), it is still debated, despite multiple, although not fully conclusive, evidences strongly suggest a possible involvement in RPL. Further extensive research is needed to definitively confirm or exclude their actual role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia D'Ippolito
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, U.O.C. di Ostetricia e Patologia Ostetrica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Istituto di Clinica Ostetrica e Ginecologica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Ticconi
- Section of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Surgical Sciences, University Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara Tersigni
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, U.O.C. di Ostetricia e Patologia Ostetrica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Istituto di Clinica Ostetrica e Ginecologica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Serafina Garofalo
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, U.O.C. di Ostetricia e Patologia Ostetrica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Carmelinda Martino
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, U.O.C. di Ostetricia e Patologia Ostetrica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Lanzone
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, U.O.C. di Ostetricia e Patologia Ostetrica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Istituto di Clinica Ostetrica e Ginecologica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Scambia
- Istituto di Clinica Ostetrica e Ginecologica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, U.O.C. di Ginecologia Oncologica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Di Simone
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, U.O.C. di Ostetricia e Patologia Ostetrica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Istituto di Clinica Ostetrica e Ginecologica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
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10
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Zhu H, Wang M, Dong Y, Hu H, Zhang Q, Qiao C, Xie X, Fan F, Zeng J, Jia Y, Chen L, Liu J, Li L, Zhai Y, Zhao Z, Shen M, Cao Z. Detection of non-criteria autoantibodies in women without apparent causes for pregnancy loss. J Clin Lab Anal 2019; 33:e22994. [PMID: 31402484 PMCID: PMC6868457 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.22994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2019] [Revised: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Some of the non‐criteria autoantibodies, especially non‐conventional antiphospholipid (aPL) antibodies, were present with high prevalence in sporadic miscarriages and recurrent pregnant loss. However, whether these autoantibodies are associated with miscarriage patients without apparent causes remain unclear. Methods The subjects were recruited from the female patients visiting the Infertility Center at the Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital from January 2017 to March 2018. The women who experienced one sporadic miscarriage (n = 89) or recurrent pregnancy loss (n = 125) were enrolled. The control participants (n = 59) were those women with normal pregnancy history and with no miscarriage or thrombosis experience. The collected serum specimens from above patients and controls were subjected to the 13 non‐criteria autoantibody examinations, targeting non‐conventional phospholipids, thyroid, sperm, endometrial, and anti‐nuclear antigens. Results When compared with the controls, the following non‐criteria antibodies stood out in present study with significantly increased frequency and were listed in the order of decreasing positive rates: aPE IgM (40.0%), ANA (15.2%), aEM IgG (13.6%), aPE IgG (12.8%), and aPT IgM (10.4%). Except for ANA, the presence of aPE IgM, aEM IgG, aPE IgG, and aPT IgM was not associated with positivity of LA tests. In receiver operating characteristic analyses, the combined aPE IgG and aEM IgG biomarker panel had the best discriminating power between miscarriage patients and healthy controls. Conclusion Our findings suggested that the non‐criteria could be included as part of the pregnancy loss evaluation when apparent causes are absent, and the conventional aPLs tests failed to provide interpretations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyuan Zhu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Dong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Honghai Hu
- Guangzhou Kangrun Biotech Co. Ltd., Guangdong, China
| | - Qiaoli Zhang
- Department of Human Reproductive Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chen Qiao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Xie
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Fei Fan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiazi Zeng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Jia
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lu Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jingrui Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Li
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanhong Zhai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhen Zhao
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Min Shen
- Reference Laboratory, MedicalSystem Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Ningbo, China
| | - Zheng Cao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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11
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The role of immunotherapy in in vitro fertilization and recurrent pregnancy loss: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Fertil Steril 2019; 110:1089-1100. [PMID: 30396553 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Revised: 06/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the current evidence on the role of immunotherapy in IVF and in the management of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. SETTING A literature search was performed using MEDLINE, PUBMED, CINAHL, and EMBASE until May 2017. Only randomized controlled trials were included, and a meta-analysis was carried out where appropriate. PATIENT(S) Women undergoing IVF treatment with or without a history of recurrent implantation failure and women with idiopathic RPL. INTERVENTION(S) Assessment of the efficacy of commonly used immunomodulators such as IV use of [1] immunoglobulin, [2] lymphocyte immunotherapy and [3] intralipid; intrauterine infusion of [4] granulocyte colony-stimulating factor and [5] peripheral blood mononuclear cells; subcutaneous administration of [6] TNF-alpha inhibitors, [7] leukaemia inhibitory factor; and oral administration of [8] glucocorticoids. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The primary outcomes were live birth rate and miscarriage rate; secondary outcome was clinical pregnancy rate. RESULT(S) Of the 7,226 publications identified, 53 were selected during the initial screening; 30 satisfied the selection criteria and were included in this review. CONCLUSION(S) The available medical literature shows controversial results about the role of immunotherapy when used for improving reproductive outcomes. This study did not show a role for immunotherapy in improving the live birth rate in women undergoing IVF treatment or in the prevention of idiopathic RPL. Currently, immunotherapy should be used in the context of research and should not be used in routine clinical practice to improve reproductive outcomes.
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12
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Aranda F, Udry S, Perés Wingeyer S, Amshoff LC, Bogdanova N, Wieacker P, Latino JO, Markoff A, de Larrañaga G. Maternal carriers of the ANXA5 M2 haplotype are exposed to a greater risk for placenta-mediated pregnancy complications. J Assist Reprod Genet 2018; 35:921-928. [PMID: 29497952 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-018-1142-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Annexin A5 (ANXA5) is a protein abundantly expressed in normal placenta where it contributes to the healthy outcome of a pregnancy. Lower ANXA5 levels have been observed in M2/ANXA5 haplotype carrying chorion. Consequently, this study aimed to assess the potential association of M2 maternal carrier status with the risk of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), the timing of miscarriages, and other obstetric complications, for the first time in a population from Latin America. METHODS This study was designed as a prospective recruitment of RPL patients with post hoc analysis. The distribution of the M2/ANXA5 haplotype was compared between a group of 229 Argentine women with RPL and 100 parous controls, and was further analyzed in subgroups of patients stratified according to the timing of miscarriages and in relation to other obstetric complications. RESULTS No significant differences were found in the distribution of M2 haplotype among either RPL patients or the subgroups with embryonic, early fetal, or late fetal losses compared to parous controls. Notwithstanding, maternal M2/ANXA5 was found to be independently associated with a higher risk of suffering intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and/or preeclampsia (PE). Simultaneously, the presence of inherited and/or acquired thrombophilia also proved to be an independent risk factor for these. CONCLUSIONS The association found between the maternal carriage of the M2/ANXA5 haplotype and an elevated risk of IUGR and/or PE supports the hypothesis that carrier status of this haplotype and the consequently reduced placental ANXA5 expression might be responsible, at least partially, for the onset of these gestational vascular complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Aranda
- Hemostasis and Thrombosis Laboratory, Hospital of Infectious Diseases "Dr Francisco J. Muñiz", Uspallata 2272, C1282AEN, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Sebastián Udry
- Section of Autoimmune Diseases, Thrombophilia and Pregnancy, Acute Care Hospital "Dr Carlos G. Durand", Av. Díaz Vélez 5044, C1405DCS, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Silvia Perés Wingeyer
- Hemostasis and Thrombosis Laboratory, Hospital of Infectious Diseases "Dr Francisco J. Muñiz", Uspallata 2272, C1282AEN, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Lea Christina Amshoff
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Clinic Muenster, Vesaliusweg 12, 48149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Nadja Bogdanova
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Clinic Muenster, Vesaliusweg 12, 48149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Peter Wieacker
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Clinic Muenster, Vesaliusweg 12, 48149, Muenster, Germany
| | - José Omar Latino
- Section of Autoimmune Diseases, Thrombophilia and Pregnancy, Acute Care Hospital "Dr Carlos G. Durand", Av. Díaz Vélez 5044, C1405DCS, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Arseni Markoff
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Clinic Muenster, Vesaliusweg 12, 48149, Muenster, Germany
| | - Gabriela de Larrañaga
- Hemostasis and Thrombosis Laboratory, Hospital of Infectious Diseases "Dr Francisco J. Muñiz", Uspallata 2272, C1282AEN, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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13
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Abstract
Some cases of reproductive failure with autoimmune background are characterized by the involvement of autoantibodies. This occurs mainly in patients having systemic lupus erythematosus or antiphospholipid syndrome. The autoantibodies associated with reproductive failure include: a) antibodies which directly bind phospholipid (e.g., cardiolipin, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylethanolamine); b) antiphospholipid Abs which bind the phospholipid via phospholipid-binding glycoproteins such as b2glycoprotein-I, annexin V and prothrombin; c) autoantibodies directed to laminin-I, actin, thromboplastin, the corpus luteum, prolactin, poly (ADP-ribose), thyroglobulin and mitochondrial antibodies of the M5 type. This paper will focus on the association of antiphosphatidylserine autoantibodies and reproductive failure. Future studies are likely to help to identify peptides resembling the epitope specificities associated with the specific clinical manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Blank
- Internal Medicine B and The Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Israel
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14
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Abstract
Autoimmune factors are involved in some of the cases of reproductive failure. These factors entail several autoantibodies, especially in patients having systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or the antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). These autoantibodies include mainly antibodies directed to phospholipid such as cardiolipin, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylethanolamine or phospholipids binding glycoproteins such as b2glycoprotein-I, annexin V, prothrombin and protein-Z. There are also some other autoantibodies directed to laminin-I, thromboplastin, mitochondrial antibodies of the M5 type, corpus luteum, prolactin, poly (ADP-ribose), thyroglobulin and more, which were also found in SLE or APS patients with reproductive failure. Moreover, the presence of additional autoantibodies directed to actin, enolase, cubilin and others, needs further investigation to support a firm association to reproductive failure in women. Future studies are likely to help to determine and expand the number of autoantibodies screened in these patients, as well as by the use of proteomics technology, to determine peptides resembling the epitope specificities associated with the specific clinical manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Shoenfeld
- Internal Medicine B and The Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Israel.
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15
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D'Ippolito S, Gasbarrini A, Castellani R, Rocchetti S, Sisti LG, Scambia G, Di Simone N. Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) DQ2/DQ8 prevalence in recurrent pregnancy loss women. Autoimmun Rev 2016; 15:638-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2016.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2016] [Accepted: 02/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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16
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Veglia M, D'Ippolito S, Marana R, Di Nicuolo F, Castellani R, Bruno V, Fiorelli A, Ria F, Maulucci G, De Spirito M, Migliara G, Scambia G, Di Simone N. Human IgG Antinuclear Antibodies Induce Pregnancy Loss in Mice by Increasing Immune Complex Deposition in Placental Tissue: In Vivo Study. Am J Reprod Immunol 2015; 74:542-52. [PMID: 26388133 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2015] [Accepted: 08/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM A threefold higher prevalence of antinuclear antibodies (ANA) has been reported in patients with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). Nevertheless, the role of ANA in reproductive failure is still unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of ANA during early pregnancy in vivo. METHOD OF STUDY We used pregnant mice treated with immunoglobulin G (IgG) obtained from normal healthy subjects (NHS); ANA(+) sera of patients with RPL; and ANA(+) sera from women with uncomplicated pregnancies (HW). Placental immunohistochemical/immunofluorescence staining was performed to detect complement and immune complex deposition. ELISA was performed to evaluate complement levels. RESULTS ANA(+) IgG from RPL women significantly increased embryo resorption rate, reduced C3, and increased C3a serum levels compared to NHS IgG or ANA(+) -HW IgG. Increased C3 deposition and increased immune complex staining in placental tissues from mice treated with ANA(+) -RPL IgG fraction compared to NHS- and ANA(+) -HW-IgG-treated mice were found. CONCLUSION ANA(+) IgG injection in mice is able to induce fetal resorption and complement activation. The presence on placental tissues of immune complexes and complement fragments suggests the complement activation as a possible mechanism of placental damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Veglia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Policlinico A. Gemelli, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia D'Ippolito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Policlinico A. Gemelli, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Riccardo Marana
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Policlinico A. Gemelli, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.,International Scientific Institute Paolo VI, ISI, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Policlinico A. Gemelli, Rome, Italy
| | - Fiorella Di Nicuolo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Policlinico A. Gemelli, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Castellani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Policlinico A. Gemelli, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Bruno
- Section of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Surgical Sciences, Università di Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessia Fiorelli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Policlinico A. Gemelli, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Ria
- Institute of General Pathology, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Policlinico A. Gemelli, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Maulucci
- Institute of Physics, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco De Spirito
- Institute of Physics, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Migliara
- Institute of General Pathology, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Policlinico A. Gemelli, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Scambia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Policlinico A. Gemelli, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Di Simone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Policlinico A. Gemelli, Università Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
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Annexin A5 Promoter Haplotype M2 Is Not a Risk Factor for Recurrent Pregnancy Loss in Northern Europe. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0131606. [PMID: 26135579 PMCID: PMC4489905 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0131606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2015] [Accepted: 06/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Annexin A5 is an essential component of placental integrity that may potentially mediate susceptibility to phenotypes of compromised pregnancy. A promoter haplotype termed M2 of the coding gene ANXA5 has been implicated in various pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), however with inconclusive results. Study subjects and methods A retrospective case-control study combining resequencing and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis was undertaken in 313 women with unexplained RPL and 214 fertile women from Estonia and Denmark to estimate the RPL disease risk of the M2 haplotype in Northern Europe. Comparative prevalence of the studied ANXA5 genetic variants in human populations was estimated based on the 1000 Genomes Project (n = 675, whole-genome sequencing data) and the KORA S3 500K dataset of South German samples (n = 1644, genome-wide genotyping data). Results Minor allele frequency of common polymorphisms in ANXA5 promoter was up to two-fold lower among Estonian RPL subjects than fertile controls. The M2 haplotype was not associated with RPL and a trend for decreased prevalence was observed among RPL patients compared to controls both in Estonia (8.1% vs 15.2%, respectively) and Denmark (9.7% vs 12.6%). The high M2 prevalence in fertile controls was consistent with estimations for European and East Asian populations (9.6%-16.0%). Conclusions This study cautions to consider the M2 haplotype as a deterministic factor in early pregnancy success because: i) no RPL disease risk was associated with the haplotype in two clinically well-characterized RPL case-control study samples, ii) high prevalence of the haplotype among fertile controls and world-wide populations is inconsistent with the previously proposed severe impact on early pregnancy success, iii) weak impact of M2 haplotype on the production of ANXA5 protein has been established by others.
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Obstetric antiphospholipid syndrome: a recent classification for an old defined disorder. Autoimmun Rev 2014; 13:901-8. [PMID: 24820522 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2014.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2014] [Accepted: 04/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Obstetric antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is now being recognized as a distinct entity from vascular APS. Pregnancy morbidity includes >3 consecutive and spontaneous early miscarriages before 10weeks of gestation; at least one unexplained fetal death after the 10th week of gestation of a morphologically normal fetus; a premature birth before the 34th week of gestation of a normal neonate due to eclampsia or severe pre-eclampsia or placental insufficiency. It is not well understood how antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs), beyond their diagnostic and prognostic role, contribute to pregnancy manifestations. Indeed aPL-mediated thrombotic events cannot explain the obstetric manifestations and additional pathogenic mechanisms, such as a placental aPL mediated complement activation and a direct effect of aPLs on placental development, have been reported. Still debated is the possible association between aPLs and infertility and the effect of maternal autoantibodies on non-vascular manifestations in the babies. Combination of low dose aspirin and unfractionated or low molecular weight heparin is the effective treatment in most of the cases. However, pregnancy complications, in spite of this therapy, can occur in up to 20% of the patients. Novel alternative therapies able to abrogate the aPL pathogenic action either by interfering with aPL binding at the placental level or by inhibiting the aPL-mediated detrimental effect are under active investigation.
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What exactly do we mean by ‘recurrent implantation failure’? A systematic review and opinion. Reprod Biomed Online 2014; 28:409-23. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2013.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2013] [Revised: 12/12/2013] [Accepted: 12/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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20
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Gourvas V, Soulitzis N, Konstantinidou A, Dalpa E, Koukoura O, Koutroulakis D, Spandidos DA, Sifakis S. Reduced ANXA5 mRNA and protein expression in pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia. Thromb Res 2013; 133:495-500. [PMID: 24393658 DOI: 10.1016/j.thromres.2013.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2013] [Revised: 12/16/2013] [Accepted: 12/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The placental anticoagulant protein Annexin A5 (ANXA5) is a multifunctional protein that is highly expressed on the apical surfaces of syncytiotrophoblasts, and plays an important role in haemostatic regulations, maintaining blood fluidity of the placenta. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of ANXA5 in pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia (PE). MATERIALS AND METHODS Placental tissue samples were collected from 23 pregnancies with PE and 34 normal pregnancies. ANXA5 mRNA levels were measured by quantitative Real-Time PCR (qPCR), while ANXA5 protein expression was measured by Western Blot (WB) and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS ANXA5 mRNA expression in PE samples was lower than 1% of its expression in normal samples (mean ± SD: 0.002 ± 0.004 vs. 0.55 ± 0.38, p < 0.001), while ANXA5 protein levels in PE samples were approximately at 65% of the average normal expression (mean ± SD: 0.53 ± 0.30 vs. 0.81 ± 0.25, p=0.001). Immunohistochemical analysis also verified the above results, since PE placentas tended to have low labelling indexes (LIs), in contrast to controls which demonstrated high LIs (p=0.020). Statistical analysis of the WB data revealed that ANXA5 protein expression was increased in PE smokers vs. PE non-smokers (mean ± SD: 0.64 ± 0.23 vs. 0.41 ± 0.33, p=0.027). CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that ANXA5 downregulation could be part of the pathophysiology of PE and the possible impairment in coagulation processes, which are seen in pregnancies that demonstrate PE. Further studies may investigate whether ANXA5 could be used as a biomarker for the early detection of PE and for the prediction of its severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Gourvas
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Soulitzis
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | | | - Efterpi Dalpa
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Ourania Koukoura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital of Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Demetrios Koutroulakis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital of Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Demetrios A Spandidos
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Stavros Sifakis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital of Heraklion, Crete, Greece.
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Behrouz GF, Farzaneh GS, Leila J, Jaleh Z, Eskandar KS. Presence of auto-antibody against two placental proteins, annexin A1 and vitamin D binding protein, in sera of women with pre-eclampsia. J Reprod Immunol 2013; 99:10-6. [PMID: 23830177 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2013.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2013] [Revised: 04/20/2013] [Accepted: 04/30/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Pre-eclampsia (PE) is one of the most complex and life-threatening pregnancy disorders. PE is characterized by maternal hypertension and proteinuria. There is much evidence to support an immunological etiology for PE and auto-immunity is considered a predisposing factor for PE. The aim of the present study was the investigation of placental proteins as targets for auto-antibodies in PE patients. 2D-PAGE technique was used for separation of the total human placental proteins. After separation, protein spots were transferred to the PVDF membranes and blotted with sera from 20 PE patients and compared with membranes blotted with 20 sera from normal women. MALDI TOF/TOF mass spectrometry technique was used for identification of differentially blotted spots. Moreover, the results of mass analysis were confirmed using western blot with commercial mAbs and RT-PCR technique. The results indicated that two placental proteins, annexin A1 and vitamin D binding protein (DBP), might be targeted by PE sera. The expression of annexin A1 and DBP was also confirmed at RNA level using the RT-PCR technique. Furthermore, the mass results were confirmed by western blotting with commercial mAbs against two targeted proteins. The data of the present study suggest two new placental proteins, annexin A1 and DBP, as placental immune targets. Considering the relation among vitamin D deficiency, increased risk of PE, and the role of annexin A1 in the resolution of inflammation, production of antibody against annexin A1 and DBP may be considered a new auto-immune hypothesis in pre-eclampsia that calls for further investigation in future work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gharesi-Fard Behrouz
- Department of Immunology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Infertility Research Centre, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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Loss of maternal annexin A5 increases the likelihood of placental platelet thrombosis and foetal loss. Sci Rep 2012; 2:827. [PMID: 23145320 PMCID: PMC3494014 DOI: 10.1038/srep00827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2011] [Accepted: 10/02/2012] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Antiphospholipid syndrome is associated with an increased risk of thrombosis and pregnancy loss. Annexin A5 (Anxa5) is a candidate autoantigen. It is not known, however, whether endogenous Anxa5 prevents foetal loss during normal pregnancy. We found significant reductions in litter size and foetal weight in Anxa5-null mice (Anxa5-KO). These changes occurred even when only the mother was Anxa5-KO. A small amount of placental fibrin deposition was observed in the decidual tissues, but did not noticeably differ between wild-type and Anxa5-KO mice. However, immunoreactivity for integrin beta 3/CD61, a platelet marker, was demonstrated within thrombi in the arterial canals only in Anxa5-KO mothers. Subcutaneous administration of the anticoagulant heparin to pregnant Anxa5-KO mice significantly reduced pregnancy loss, suggesting that maternal Anxa5 is crucial for maintaining intact placental circulation. Hence, the presence of maternal Anxa5 minimises the risk of thrombosis in the placental circulation and reduces the risk of foetal loss.
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Kwak-Kim J, Han AR, Gilman-Sachs A, Fishel S, Leong M, Shoham Z. Current Trends of Reproductive Immunology Practices inIn Vitrofertilization (IVF) - A First World Survey Using IVF-Worldwide.com. Am J Reprod Immunol 2012; 69:12-20. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2012.01183.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2012] [Accepted: 07/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ae Ra Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Reproductive Medicine; The Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science; Vernon Hills; IL; USA
| | - Alice Gilman-Sachs
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology; The Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science; North Chicago; IL; USA
| | | | - Milton Leong
- IVF Centre; The Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospital; Happy Valley; Hong Kong
| | - Zeev Shoham
- The Reproductive Medicine Unit; Kaplan Medical Center; Hebrew University; Hadassah Medical School; Rehovot; Israel
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Karata S, Aydin Y, Ocer F, Buyru A, Balci H. Hereditary thrombophilia, anti-beta2 glycoprotein 1 IgM, and anti-annexin V antibodies in recurrent pregnancy loss. Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 67:251-5. [PMID: 22103678 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2011.01092.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM We investigated the beta2-glycoprotein I and anti-annexin V antibodies as anti-phospholipid-cofactor antibodies; and factor V G1691A Leiden, prothrombin G20210A, and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T mutations as hereditary thrombophilia in recurrent pregnancy losses (RPL). METHOD OF STUDY Study group consisted of 84 women with recurrent pregnancy loss and control group consisted of 84 women having at least one live birth. RESULTS Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T homozygous mutation was detected in 28.5% of the study group and in 14.2% of the controls, and the difference was highly significant (P < 0.001). Heterozygous mutation of this gene was found in 64.3% of the study population and in 38.1% of the controls, and difference in heterozygous mutation frequency was also significant (P < 0.001). Both homozygous and heterozygous mutations of PT G20210A and factor V G1691A were not different between the groups. There was no significant difference in anti-annexin V levels and anti-beta2-gp 1 levels of the groups. CONCLUSION We concluded that both homozygous and heterozygous mutations of MTHFR C677T were related with RPL in Caucasian women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suat Karata
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Iaccarino L, Ghirardello A, Canova M, Zen M, Bettio S, Nalotto L, Punzi L, Doria A. Anti-annexins autoantibodies: their role as biomarkers of autoimmune diseases. Autoimmun Rev 2011; 10:553-8. [PMID: 21527362 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2011.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2011] [Accepted: 04/10/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Annexins are a group of 12 highly conserved proteins which exert several regulatory functions on cell biology. There are involved in numerous cell processes including vesicle trafficking, calcium signaling, cell growth, division, and apoptosis. Autoantibodies directed toward annexin I, II, V and XI have been reported, but their role and their clinical correlates are controversial. Annexin I exerts an anti-inflammatory effect by suppressing the generation of inflammatory mediators and anti-annexin I antibodies were detected in patients affected with rheumatoid arthritis, systemic (SLE) and cutaneous lupus erythematosus. Annexin II and V have a high affinity for phospholipids playing a pivotal role in the regulation of coagulation cascade. Anti-annexin II and anti-annexin V antibodies were found in patients with arterial or venous thrombosis, especially in those with autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARD) such as SLE, primary antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) or systemic sclerosis. Anti-annexin V antibodies were also found in patients with pregnancy loss with or without APS. Annexin XI is involved in several biological pathways, particularly apoptosis and cell proliferation. Anti-annexin XI antibodies have been found in patients with SLE, undifferentiated connective tissue disease, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's syndrome and APS. The metanalysis of studies published up to now showed that the Odds Ratio for having an ARD in anti-annexin XI positive patients was 5.08 (95% CI 2.06-12.58).
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Affiliation(s)
- L Iaccarino
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2 35128 Padova, Italy
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Sater MS, Finan RR, Mustafa FE, Al-Khateeb GM, Almawi WY. Anti-annexin V IgM and IgG autoantibodies and the risk of idiopathic recurrent spontaneous miscarriage. J Reprod Immunol 2011; 89:78-83. [PMID: 21466898 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2010.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2010] [Revised: 12/20/2010] [Accepted: 12/23/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Anti-annexin V antibodies have been identified as risk factors for recurrent spontaneous miscarriage (RSM) in some, but not all previous studies. We investigated the association between anti-annexin IgM and IgG in RSM cases and control women. Blood samples from 244 women with idiopathic RSM, and 283 multi-parous control women were tested for anti-annexin V antibodies by ELISA. A significant elevation in anti-annexin V IgM and IgG was seen in the RSM cases. An increased prevalence of elevated anti-annexin V IgM and to a lesser extent anti-annexin V IgG was seen in RSM patients. Receiver operating characteristic analysis indicated that the area under the curve for anti-annexin V IgM was 0.916, and for anti-annexin V IgG was 0.725. A systematic shift in anti-annexin V IgM and IgG distributions toward higher values occurred in RSM women, which was confirmed by percentile analysis. For each of the anti-annexin V isotypes, the adjusted odds ratio increased as the percentile value increased; the strongest risk was for anti-annexin V IgM, in which the 99th percentile (P99) was associated with a 165-fold higher risk than P50, and for anti-annexin V IgG where P99 was associated with a 38-fold higher risk than P50. In addition, a higher prevalence of elevated anti-annexin V IgM and anti-annexin V IgG was seen in RSM cases than in control women. We conclude that anti-annexin V IgM and IgG antibody positivity are independent risk factors for RSM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai S Sater
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain
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Circulating B lymphocytes producing autoantibodies to endothelial cells play a role in the pathogenesis of Takayasu arteritis. J Vasc Surg 2011; 53:174-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jvs.2010.06.173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2010] [Revised: 06/08/2010] [Accepted: 06/27/2010] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Irman S, Skarabot M, Muševič I, Rozman B, Božič B. The use of atomic force microscopy to study the pathologic effects of anti-annexin autoantibodies. J Autoimmun 2010; 36:98-105. [PMID: 21185149 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2010.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2010] [Revised: 11/15/2010] [Accepted: 11/25/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Patients with recurrent pregnancy loss and a history of thrombotic events have often been noted to have autoantibodies directed at annexin A5. However, the relationship of these autoantibodies to immunopathology is still unknown, although it has been proposed that they have a direct effect on the function of annexin A5. Annexin A5 may be a significant immunological target with pathologic implications. Essentially, annexin A5 is an anticoagulant protein that crystallizes over negatively charged phospholipid surfaces and thereby blocks them from availability for coagulation reactions. To address this issue, we have taken advantage of our expertise with atomic force microscopy and studied anti-annexin A5 autoantibodies isolated from patients and focused on the ability of these antibodies to influence annexin A5 crystallization on planar mica-supported phospholipid bilayers. We report herein that such antibodies from patients, but not controls, produced a significant disruption of incomplete annexin A5 crystalline shield on phospholipid bilayer. In addition, the IgG fraction isolated from such patients significantly decreased the velocity of annexin A5 crystallization. Atomic force microscopy is a powerful tool to study the pathologic mechanisms of autoantibodies and the data herein reflect the potential of anti-annexin A5 antibodies that produce pathology in a number of varied but overlapping clinical conditions, including autoimmune thrombosis and antiphospholipid syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spela Irman
- University Medical Centre, Division of Internal Medicine, Department of Rheumatology, Vodnikova cesta 61, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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EL-Gharib M, Elhawary T, Elshourbagy S, Morad M. Anti-annexin V Antibodies in Women with Recurrent Miscarriage. CLINICAL MEDICINE INSIGHTS: REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2010. [DOI: 10.4137/cmrh.s5835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectiveTo determine the role of anti-annexin V antibodies (a-A5) as an etiologic factor in recurrent pregnancy failure.Study designProspective observational study.Material and methodsThe study included ninety first trimester pregnant women who had a history of unexplained recurrent miscarriage (group I) with ninety well-matched pregnant women with a history of normal reproductive outcome allocated as control group (GII) and another ninety nonpregnant women (GIII). Sera from all women controls were analyzed for anti-annexin antibody measured by Elisa.ResultsThe mean value of a-A5 was 11.37 ± 6.78, 7.7 ± 1.40 and 6.20 ± 0.95 ng/ml in groups I, II and III respectively. There was a significant increase in the mean value a-A5 among women with a history of recurrent miscarriage, compared with controls. The mean value was 13.92 ± 2.42 ng/ml among patients with unfavourable outcome, compared with a corresponding value of 6.95 V 0.58 ng/ml among women with favourable outcome. The receiver operator characteristic curve revealed that the cutoff value of a-A5 was 8.61 ng/ml.ConclusionThis study emphasizes the relationship between anti-annexin V antibodies and recurrent miscarriage.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - T.M. Elhawary
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tanta, Egypt
| | | | - M.A. Morad
- Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
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Antiphospholipid antibody-mediated reproductive failure in antiphospholipid syndrome. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2010; 38:141-7. [PMID: 19562524 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-009-8146-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The association of elevated titers of circulating antiphospholipid (anti-PL) Abs in antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and reproductive failure is well established in the literature. The clinical features include recurrent abortions at various stages, including implantation, placentation in the first trimester, miscarriages in the second and third trimesters, intrauterine growth retardation, preeclampsia with placental insufficiency and growth restrictions, arterial and venous thrombosis, and possibly also infertility. APS-mediated recurrent pregnancy loss and other features of reproductive failure might result from diverse autoimmune factors, inflammation, involving different mechanisms, which encompass pathogenic anti-PL Abs. Herein, we discuss the association of anti-PL Abs with reproductive failure with special emphasis on antiphospholipid autoantibodies characterizing APS. This association is evident from either human studies or murine models.
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Abstract
Defective reaction toward fetal alloantigens could result in both recurrent spontaneous abortions (RSAs) and recurrent early pregnancy failures (REPFs), the latter existing in couples with unexplained infertility and multiple failures of implantation after in vitro fertilization embryo transfer. Immunological mechanisms leading to RSA and REPF seem to be different, although both syndromes probably have a genetic background that has not been identified so far. Despite the fact that antiphospholipid syndrome is a well-established cause of repeated pregnancy loss, the role of different autoantibodies existing in RSA and REPF patients needs to be elucidated. Immunotherapy is believed to correct the detrimental immune reactions; however, its real effectiveness and safety for the treatment of distinct forms of pregnancy loss need to be reconsidered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek R Wilczynski
- Polish Mother's Health Center Research Institute, Department of Gynecological Surgery, 281/289 Rzgowska Street, 93-338 Lódz, Poland.
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Obayashi S, Ozaki Y, Sugi T, Kitaori T, Katano K, Suzuki S, Sugiura-Ogasawara M. Antiphosphatidylethanolamine antibodies might not be an independent risk factor for further miscarriage in patients suffering recurrent pregnancy loss. J Reprod Immunol 2010; 85:186-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2010.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2009] [Revised: 02/19/2010] [Accepted: 03/03/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Alijotas-Reig J, Ferrer-Oliveras R, Rodrigo-Anoro MJ, Farran-Codina I, Llurba-Olivé E, Vilardell-Tarres M, Casellas-Caro M. Anti-annexin A5 antibodies in women with spontaneous pregnancy loss. Med Clin (Barc) 2010; 134:433-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2009.09.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2009] [Revised: 08/03/2009] [Accepted: 09/16/2009] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Sifakis S, Soufla G, Koukoura O, Soulitzis N, Koutroulakis D, Maiz N, Konstantinidou A, Melissari E, Spandidos DA. Decreased Annexin A5 mRNA placental expression in pregnancies complicated by fetal growth restriction. Thromb Res 2010; 125:326-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.thromres.2009.11.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2009] [Revised: 10/23/2009] [Accepted: 11/20/2009] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Borchers AT, Naguwa SM, Keen CL, Gershwin ME. The implications of autoimmunity and pregnancy. J Autoimmun 2009; 34:J287-99. [PMID: 20031371 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2009.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
There are multiple epidemiological studies that document the potential adverse affects of autoimmunity on nearly every aspect of reproduction, even in the absence of clinically manifest autoimmune disease. Two decades ago, it was suggested that women with autoimmune diseases avoid pregnancy due to inordinate risks to the mother and the child. In contrast, newer epidemiological data demonstrated that advances in the treatment of autoimmune diseases and the management of pregnant women with these diseases have similarly improved the prognosis for mother and child. In particular, if pregnancy is planned during periods of inactive or stable disease, the result often is giving birth to healthy full-term babies without increased risks of pregnancy complications. Nonetheless, pregnancies in most autoimmune diseases are still classified as high risk because of the potential for major complications. These complications include disease exacerbations during gestation and increased perinatal mortality and morbidity in most autoimmune diseases, whereas fetal mortality is characteristic of the anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS). In this review, we will discuss these topics, including issues of hormones, along with potential long-term effects of the microchimerism phenomenon. With respect to pregnancy and autoimmune diseases, epidemiological studies have attempted to address the following questions: 1) Is it safe for the mother to become pregnant or are there acute or chronic effects of pregnancy on the course of the disease? 2) Does the disease alter the course and/or the outcome of a pregnancy and thereby represent an inordinate risk for the fetus and infant? And do new therapeutic and management approaches improve the pregnancy outcomes in women with autoimmune diseases? 3) Does passage of maternal autoantibodies represent a risk to the child? 4) Do pregnancy, parity, or other factors influencing hormonal status explain the female predominance of many autoimmune diseases, and is the pregnancy effect related to microchimerism? Answering these questions has taken on additional importance in recent decades as women in western countries now frequently choose to delay pregnancies and have some or all of their pregnancies after disease onset. In this paper, we primarily focus on APS, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and type 1 diabetes (T1D).
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea T Borchers
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California at Davis School of Medicine, 451 Health Sciences Drive, Suite 6510, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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Matsubayashi H. Autoantibodies and coagulation in reproductive medicine. Reprod Med Biol 2009; 8:131-140. [PMID: 29662422 DOI: 10.1007/s12522-009-0026-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2009] [Accepted: 06/29/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Management of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is considered to be difficult, in part because of cunfusion between autoantibodies and coagulation disorders. Autoantibodies and coagulation are related; two groups of multicenter studies concerning autoantibodies and coagulation reported that factor XII deficiency, hypofibrinolysis, anti-phosphatidylethanolamine (aPE), anti-beta2-glycoprotein I, anti-annexin A5, and lupus anticoagulant (LA) were found to be frequent risk factors in RPL women. Therefore, discrimination of autoantibodies and coagulation is important in understanding RPL well. We propose three types of pathways regarding reproduction, which are different and independent: (1) Negatively charged-phospholipid related antibodies (anti-phosphatidylserine; aPS, anti-cardiolipin; aCL, lupus anticoagulant; LA, anti-annexin A5; aANX), (2) factor XII-aPE-fibrinolysis: suppression of fibrinolysis, (3) protein C-protein S-factor V: loss of inactivation against activated factor V. Women with RPL and infertility showed similar findings in terms of the above clinical tests. Available data, however, is not enough to conclude whether these are pathogenic to infertile women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidehiko Matsubayashi
- Tokai University School of Medicine 143 Shimokasuya, Isehara 259-1193 Kanagawa Japan.,Osaka New ART Clinic Pacificmarks Nishiumeda 10F, 2-6-20 Umeda, Kita-ku 530-0001 Osaka Japan
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Sebastiani GD, Morozzi G, Bellisai F, Fineschi I, Bacarelli MR, Simpatico A, Font J, Cervera R, Houssiau F, Fernandez-Nebro A, De Ramon Garrido E, De Pità O, Smolen J, Galeazzi M. Anti-Cofactor Autoantibodies in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Prevalence, Clinical and HLA Class II Associations. Immunol Invest 2009; 37:375-85. [DOI: 10.1080/08820130802116117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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38
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Renaud SJ, Graham CH. The Role of Macrophages in Utero-placental Interactions During Normal and Pathological Pregnancy. Immunol Invest 2009; 37:535-64. [DOI: 10.1080/08820130802191375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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39
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Second trimester amniotic fluid annexin A5 levels and subsequent development of intrauterine growth restriction. Prenat Diagn 2008; 28:887-91. [DOI: 10.1002/pd.2076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Bozic B, Irman S, Gaspersic N, Kveder T, Rozman B. Antibodies against annexin A5: detection pitfalls and clinical associations. Autoimmunity 2008; 38:425-30. [PMID: 16278147 DOI: 10.1080/08916930500288356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) has been defined as a clinical and laboratory entity. Laboratory criteria include the presence of anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL) and/or lupus anticoagulant (LA), collectively termed as antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). However, there has been a rising interest in antibodies against so-called protein cofactors, particularly in beta(2)-glycoprotein I. In the early 90s, annexins were considered as target antigens for aPL, but at present the exact role of antibodies against annexins (aANX) remains puzzling. This review is concerned with annexin V or annexin A5 (ANXA5), a widespread member of the annexin family, and antibodies directed towards it. We have endeavoured to summarise essential information about the detection of anti-annexin V antibodies (aANXA5) and their clinical relevance. This review has also brought together some relevant published data concerning the structure, physiological role and therapeutic potential of ANXA5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Borut Bozic
- Department of Rheumatology, University Medical Centre, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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41
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Mtiraoui N, Zammiti W, Fekih M, Hider S, Almawi WY, Mahjoub T. Lupus anticoagulant and antibodies to β2-glycoprotein I, annexin V, and cardiolipin as a cause of recurrent spontaneous abortion. Fertil Steril 2007; 88:1458-61. [PMID: 17548069 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2007.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2006] [Revised: 01/05/2007] [Accepted: 01/05/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of lupus anticoagulant (LAC), anticardiolipin (ACA), anti-beta(2) glycoprotein I (beta(2)GPI), and antiannexin V antibodies were determined in 200 recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) patients and 200 age-matched control women. ACA IgG was associated with early, while antiannexin V IgG and LAC were associated with late, and ACA IgG, antiannexin V IgG, and LAC were associated with combined early + late RSA, thereby recommending inclusion of their screening in RSA workout.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Mtiraoui
- Research Unit of Haematological and Autoimmune Diseases, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, Monastir
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42
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Margalioth EJ, Ben-Chetrit A, Gal M, Eldar-Geva T. Investigation and treatment of repeated implantation failure following IVF-ET. Hum Reprod 2006; 21:3036-43. [PMID: 16905766 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/del305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 289] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy rate following one cycle of IVF and ET can be as high as 60%. But even in the very successful units, some couples fail repeatedly. The causes for repeated implantation failure (RIF) may be because of reduced endometrial receptivity, embryonic defects or multifactorial causes. Various uterine pathologies, such as thin endometrium, altered expression of adhesive molecules and immunological factors, may decrease endometrial receptivity, whereas genetic abnormalities of the male or female, sperm defects, embryonic aneuploidy or zona hardening are among the embryonic reasons for failure of implantation. Endometriosis and hydrosalpinges may adversely influence both. In this mini review, we discuss the suggested methods for evaluation and treatment of RIF: repeated hysteroscopy, myomectomy, endometrial stimulation, immunotherapy, preimplantation genetic screening (PGS), assisted hatching, zygote intra-Fallopian transfer (ZIFT), co-culture, blastocyst transfer, cytoplasmic transfer, tailoring stimulation protocols and salpingectomy for hydrosalpinges.
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Affiliation(s)
- E J Margalioth
- IVF Unit, Shaare-Zedek Medical Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Jerusalem, Israel.
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Qublan HS, Eid SS, Ababneh HA, Amarin ZO, Smadi AZ, Al-Khafaji FF, Khader YS. Acquired and inherited thrombophilia: implication in recurrent IVF and embryo transfer failure. Hum Reprod 2006; 21:2694-8. [PMID: 16835215 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/del203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this study was to determine the incidence of undiagnosed thrombophilic factors and its relation to IVF and embryo transfer failure in women who have had three or more previous IVF-embryo transfer cycles. METHODS The study group comprised of 90 consecutive women with three or more previously failed IVF-embryo transfer cycles (group A). Two control groups were enrolled: group B (n=90) included women who have had successful pregnancy after their first IVF-embryo transfer cycle, and group C (n=100) included women who conceived spontaneously with at least one uneventful pregnancy and no previous history of miscarriage. All women were tested for the presence of inherited [factor V Leiden (FVL) mutation, prothrombin mutation, methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) mutation and deficiencies in proteins S and C and antithrombin III] or acquired (lupus anticoagulant and anticardiolipin) thrombophilic factors. RESULTS An increase in the incidences of FVL, MTHFR and antiphospholipid antibodies was found in the study group compared with the two control groups. At least one inherited or acquired thrombophilic factor was detected in 68.9% of women with repeated IVF failure compared with 25.6 and 25% in the groups B and C, respectively (P<0.01). Combined thrombophilia (two or more thrombophilic factors) was significantly higher in women who have had repeated IVF failure as compared with the two control groups (35.6 versus 4.4 and 3%) (P<0.0001). CONCLUSION Thrombophilia has a significant role in IVF-embryo transfer implantation failure. Women with repeated IVF-embryo transfer failure should be screened for thrombophilia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussein S Qublan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Royal Medical Services, Jordan Armed Forces, Irbid, Jordan.
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Zammiti W, Mtiraoui N, Hidar S, Fekih M, Almawi WY, Mahjoub T. Antibodies to β2-glycoprotein I and annexin V in women with early and late idiopathic recurrent spontaneous abortions. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2006; 274:261-5. [PMID: 16826414 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-006-0158-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2005] [Accepted: 03/14/2006] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Anti-phospholipid antibodies (APA) are heterogeneous group of autoantibodies that target phospholipid or phospholipid-binding proteins. APAs were previously shown to induce several thrombotic states, including idiopathic recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA). Unlike the contribution of the classical lupus anticoagulant (LAC) and anticardiolipin antibodies (ACA), the contribution of anti-beta2 glycoprotein 1 (beta2GPI) and anti-annexin V antibodies to RSA risk remain poorly understood. We assessed anti-beta2GPI and anti-annexin V IgM and IgG antibodies as RSA risk factors for RSA in 172 Tunisian women with >3 consecutive idiopathic pregnancy losses, together with 173 matched control women. The prevalence of anti-beta2GPI IgG (P=0.41, OR=1.64) and IgM (P=0.50, OR=1.70) were comparable between cases and controls. Higher anti-annexin V IgG (P=0.02, OR=5.28), but not IgM (P=0.25, OR=1.78), levels were seen in cases. Regression analysis showed that anti-beta2GPI IgM (OR=8.90; 95% CI=1.23-64.63) was associated with early RSA, while anti-annexin V IgG (OR=9.35, 95% CI=1.44-60.86) was associated with late RSA. For combined early + late RSA, the only variable selected was BMI (OR=0.93; 95% CI=0.87-0.99), and neither anti-annexin V nor anti-beta2GPI IgM and IgG were associated with early + late RSA. Anti-annexin V and anti-beta2GPI appear to be independent risk markers of RSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Zammiti
- Laboratory of Hematology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
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Zammiti W, Mtiraoui N, Kallel C, Mercier E, Almawi WY, Mahjoub T. A case-control study on the association of idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss with autoantibodies against β2-glycoprotein I and annexin V. Reproduction 2006; 131:817-22. [PMID: 16595732 DOI: 10.1530/rep.1.01060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Whereas antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are associated with thrombotic events and recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA), the contribution of anti-β2 glycoprotein 1 (β2GP1) and anti-annexin V antibodies as risk factors for RSA remain poorly understood. We investigated anti-β2-GPI and anti-annexin V IgM and IgG antibodies as potential risk factors for RSA in 200 women with more than three consecutive idiopathic RSA, and 200 age-matched, healthy, parous women. Pearson’s chi squared test analysis showed that while anti-β2-GPI IgG (P= 0.416) and IgM (P= 0.72) were comparable between patients and controls, elevated anti-annexin V IgG (P= 0.006), but not IgM (P= 0.084), was more pronounced in patients. Higher frequencies of elevated IgG-only (P= 0.005), but not IgM-only (P= 1.000; OR = 6.66), anti-annexin V antibodies were noted among patients. Multinomial regression analysis showed that body-mass index (overweight and obesity;P= 0.008), education status (P< 0.001) and anti-β2-GPI IgM (P= 0.033), but not IgG (P= 0.723), were associated with early abortion, while anti-β2-GPI IgG (P= 0.030) and anti-annexin V IgG (P= 0.004) were associated with late RSA. For combined early-late RSA, the only variable selected was education status (P< 0.001), and neither anti-annexin V nor anti-β2-GPI IgM and IgG was associated with early-late RSA. Accordingly, anti-annexin V and anti-β2-GPI should be regarded as independent risk markers of RSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Walid Zammiti
- Laboratory of Hematology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Monastir, Tunisia
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Christiansen OB, Nielsen HS, Kolte AM. Future directions of failed implantation and recurrent miscarriage research. Reprod Biomed Online 2006; 13:71-83. [PMID: 16820113 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)62018-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Recurrent implantation failure is today the major reason for women completing several IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection attempts without having achieved a child, and is probably also the explanation for many cases of unexplained infertility. Most causes of recurrent miscarriage are still poorly elucidated, but from a theoretical point of view recurrent implantation failure and recurrent miscarriage are suggested to have partly overlapping causes. Recent research has indeed documented that both syndromes can be caused by the same embryonic chromosomal abnormalities and the same maternal endocrine, thrombophilic and immunological disturbances. Consequently, many treatments attempting to normalize these abnormalities have been tested or are currently used in women with both recurrent implantation failure and recurrent miscarriage. However, no treatment for the two syndromes is at the moment sufficiently documented to justify its routine use. In this review, an overview is given regarding present knowledge about causes that may be common for recurrent implantation failure and recurrent miscarriage, and suggestions are put forward for future research that may significantly improve understanding and treatment options for the syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ole B Christiansen
- Fertility Clinic 4071, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Rand JH, Arslan AA, Wu XX, Wein R, Mulholland J, Shah M, van Heerde WL, Reutelingsperger CP, Lockwood CJ, Kuczynski E. Reduction of circulating annexin A5 levels and resistance to annexin A5 anticoagulant activity in women with recurrent spontaneous pregnancy losses. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2006; 194:182-8. [PMID: 16389029 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2005.05.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2005] [Revised: 05/02/2005] [Accepted: 05/06/2005] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We investigated whether levels of annexin A5, evidence for resistance to annexin A5 activity, and levels anti-annexin A5 antibodies might be altered in women with a history of recurrent spontaneous pregnancy losses. STUDY DESIGN These annexin A5 parameters were assayed in 70 nonpregnant women with a history of > or = 3 recurrent spontaneous pregnancy losses (cases) and 50 women without adverse pregnancy history (control subjects). RESULTS Cases had significantly lower plasma annexin A5 levels than control subjects (median, 4.7 ng/mL [range, 0.3-40.4 ng/mL] vs 6.7 ng/mL [range, 0.7-56.0]; P = .01), significantly reduced anticoagulant ratios (188% [range, 119%-279%] vs 238% [range, 159%-286%]; P < .0001), and reduced binding of annexin A5 to phospholipid (6.3 ng/aliquot phospholipid [range, 1.5-16.4 ng/aliquot phospholipid] vs 9.7 ng/aliquot phospholipid (range, 3.5-17.0 ng/aliquot phospholipid]; P = .0002). There were no significant differences in anti-annexin A5 antibody levels. CONCLUSION Reduction of annexin A5 and interference with its anticoagulant and binding activities are associated significantly with a history of recurrent spontaneous pregnancy losses. These data support the concept of a significant role for annexin A5 in the maintenance of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob H Rand
- Division of Clinical Pathology, Department of Pathology, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
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Tan BK, Vandekerckhove P, Kennedy R, Keay SD. Investigation and current management of recurrent IVF treatment failure in the UK. BJOG 2005; 112:773-80. [PMID: 15924536 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.2005.00523.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine current practice in the management of recurrent in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment failure in licensed UK infertility centres. DESIGN National postal questionnaire study and literature review. SETTING University Hospital, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Coventry, UK. SAMPLE Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority licensed centres providing IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in the UK (n = 79). METHODS A survey was designed that sought to determine how recurrent treatment failure was defined and which, if any, investigations were initiated. Furthermore, we asked which therapeutic options were subsequently recommended. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Definition of recurrent treatment failure. Investigations undertaken. Clinical or embryology changes recommended following recurrent treatment failure. RESULTS The response rate was 82%. The most common definition was three unsuccessful IVF cycles (range 2-6). Nineteen percent included frozen embryo replacements (FERs) in this figure. Anticardiolipin antibodies and lupus anticoagulant were the most frequent investigations suggested, followed by hysteroscopy and karyotype. A majority of centres would use a different treatment strategy in a subsequent cycle with blastocyst culture and assisted hatching being most popular. CONCLUSIONS The results of this survey suggest that there is considerable variation in the approach to investigation and management of recurrent IVF treatment failure in the UK, although in some areas (e.g. the definition) there was broad concordance. Not all of these approaches are evidence based.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bee K Tan
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, UK
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Bizzaro N, Tonutti E, Villalta D, Tampoia M, Tozzoli R. Prevalence and Clinical Correlation of Anti-Phospholipid–Binding Protein Antibodies in Anticardiolipin-Negative Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Women With Unexplained Recurrent Miscarriages. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2005; 129:61-8. [DOI: 10.5858/2005-129-61-paccoa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Context.—Anti-phospholipid antibodies (aPL) are a heterogeneous group of autoantibodies, the presence of which is associated with thrombotic events and miscarriage.
Objective.—To establish whether antibodies directed against phospholipid-binding plasma proteins such as β2-glycoprotein I (β2GPI), prothrombin (PT), and annexin V (Anx V) constitute a risk factor for thromboembolism in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and for miscarriage in women with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), independently of the presence of the classic anticardiolipin (aCL) antibodies, and whether their determination together with that of aCL would help to increase the diagnostic sensitivity of aPL tests.
Design.—The prevalence of various antibodies directed toward phospholipids (CL and other anionic phospholipids [APL]) and phospholipid-binding proteins (β2GPI, PT, and Anx V) was determined by immunoenzymatic methods in 311 serum samples.
Patients.—Twenty-five patients with aCL-positive primary anti-phospholipid syndrome (pAPS); 89 patients with SLE, 23 of whom had thrombotic complications (SLE/APS) and 66 of whom had no thrombosis; and 77 women with unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss comprised our study group. One hundred twenty healthy subjects matched for age and sex were studied as the control group.
Results.—Immunoglobulin (Ig) G and/or IgM aAPL, anti-β2GPI, anti-PT, and IgG anti-Anx V antibodies were detected in 25 (100%), 20 (80%), 15 (60%), and 6 (24%), respectively, of the 25 aCL-positive pAPS patients; IgG and/or IgM aCL, aAPL, anti-β2GPI, anti-PT, and IgG anti-Anx V antibodies were detected in 33 (37%), 42 (47%), 31 (35%), 40 (45%), and 12 (13%) of the 89 SLE patients, respectively. Of the 56 SLE patients who proved to be aCL negative, anti-β2GPI was present in 3 patients (5%), anti-PT in 13 (23%) patients, and anti-Anx V in 5 (9%) patients. In the subset of 23 SLE/APS patients, IgG anti-PT prevalence was higher than that of the other autoantibodies (87% vs 70% aCL, 66% aAPL, 57% anti-β2GPI, and 4% anti-Anx V), and in 26% of cases, IgG anti-PT was the only antibody present. Anti-PT had a slightly lower specificity than aCL (46% vs 49%); however, the occurrence of both antibodies brought the specificity to 92.4%. The highest risk for thrombosis in SLE patients was associated with the presence of IgG anti-PT antibody (odds ratio [OR] 15.3, P < .001, vs 6.5 aCL, 3.5 aAPL, 3.4 anti-β2GPI, 0.2 anti-Anx V). Fifty-one of the 77 women with recurrent pregnancy loss were negative for all antibodies investigated; the prevalence of IgG and/or IgM aCL, aAPL, anti-β2GPI, anti-PT, and IgG anti-Anx V antibodies was 6% (5), 12% (9), 6% (5), 16% (12), and 17% (13), respectively. Of the 67 aCL-negative women, none had anti-β2GPI antibodies, 7 (11%) were anti-PT positive, and 13 (19%) were anti-Anx V positive. In the subgroup of 26 recurrent pregnancy loss patients who had at least one antibody, anti-Anx V was present in 50% of cases (in 42% as the sole antibody) and was the only antibody significantly associated with miscarriage (P = .02).
Conclusions.—The results of this study indicate that it is useful to measure anti-PT antibodies in addition to the more widely used aCL and anti-β2GPI antibodies in the prognostic evaluation of SLE patients for the risk of thrombosis, and the results also confirm that anti-Anx V antibodies may play an important role in recurrent pregnancy loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Bizzaro
- From the Laboratorio di Patologia Clinica, Ospedale di S. Donà di Piave, Italy (Dr Bizzaro); Immunologia e Allergologia, Az. Osp. S. Maria della Misericordia, Udine, Italy (Dr Tonutti); Servizio di Immunologia Clinica e Virologia, Az. Osp. S. Maria degli Angeli, Pordenone, Italy (Dr Villalta); Laboratorio di Patologia Clinica, Policlinico, Bari, Italy (Dr Tampoia); and the Laboratorio di Chimica-
| | - Elio Tonutti
- From the Laboratorio di Patologia Clinica, Ospedale di S. Donà di Piave, Italy (Dr Bizzaro); Immunologia e Allergologia, Az. Osp. S. Maria della Misericordia, Udine, Italy (Dr Tonutti); Servizio di Immunologia Clinica e Virologia, Az. Osp. S. Maria degli Angeli, Pordenone, Italy (Dr Villalta); Laboratorio di Patologia Clinica, Policlinico, Bari, Italy (Dr Tampoia); and the Laboratorio di Chimica-
| | - Danilo Villalta
- From the Laboratorio di Patologia Clinica, Ospedale di S. Donà di Piave, Italy (Dr Bizzaro); Immunologia e Allergologia, Az. Osp. S. Maria della Misericordia, Udine, Italy (Dr Tonutti); Servizio di Immunologia Clinica e Virologia, Az. Osp. S. Maria degli Angeli, Pordenone, Italy (Dr Villalta); Laboratorio di Patologia Clinica, Policlinico, Bari, Italy (Dr Tampoia); and the Laboratorio di Chimica-
| | - Marilina Tampoia
- From the Laboratorio di Patologia Clinica, Ospedale di S. Donà di Piave, Italy (Dr Bizzaro); Immunologia e Allergologia, Az. Osp. S. Maria della Misericordia, Udine, Italy (Dr Tonutti); Servizio di Immunologia Clinica e Virologia, Az. Osp. S. Maria degli Angeli, Pordenone, Italy (Dr Villalta); Laboratorio di Patologia Clinica, Policlinico, Bari, Italy (Dr Tampoia); and the Laboratorio di Chimica-
| | - Renato Tozzoli
- From the Laboratorio di Patologia Clinica, Ospedale di S. Donà di Piave, Italy (Dr Bizzaro); Immunologia e Allergologia, Az. Osp. S. Maria della Misericordia, Udine, Italy (Dr Tonutti); Servizio di Immunologia Clinica e Virologia, Az. Osp. S. Maria degli Angeli, Pordenone, Italy (Dr Villalta); Laboratorio di Patologia Clinica, Policlinico, Bari, Italy (Dr Tampoia); and the Laboratorio di Chimica-
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Sugiura-Ogasawara M, Atsumi T, Ozaki Y, Koike T, Suzumori K. Phosphatidylserine-dependent antiprothrombin antibodies are not useful markers for high-risk women with recurrent miscarriages. Fertil Steril 2004; 82:1440-2. [PMID: 15533375 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2004.06.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2003] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
To determine the possible association between antiprothrombin antibodies and conventional antiphospholipid antibody (aPL) 1 (1.0%), 2 (2.0%) and 17 (17.0%) were found to be positive for phosphatidylserine-dependent antiprothrombin antibody (aPS/PT) IgG, beta2glycoprotein I-dependent anticardiolipin antibody, and lupus anticoagulant by activated partial thromboplastin time (LA), respectively, in 100 recurrent aborters. Because patients with aPS/PT were included in the 17 with LA, we should not add aPS/PT measurement to routine testing in addition to conventional aPL for patients with recurrent miscarriage.
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