Embryology Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Embryology, including details on stem cells, reproduction, transplants, cloning.

Serum and follicular fluid leptin levels are correlated with human embryo quality.

Anifandis G, Koutselini E, Stefanidis I, Liakopoulos V, Leivaditis C, Mantzavinos T, Vamvakopoulos N

2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Athens Medical School, Aretaieio Hospital, 76 V. Sofias Ave, 115 28 Athens, Greece. ganif@med.uth.gr

This prospective study was undertaken to reassess the prognostic value of leptin during critical stages of in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) and address its role in the functional staging of assisted reproductive technologies at the level of embryo quality. Serum and follicular fluid samples of 100 selected women undergoing the long IVF-ET protocol were collected for leptin and embryo quality determination. The highest serum leptin concentration (52.11 +/- 4.27 ng/ml) was observed on ovum pick up day, while follicular fluid leptin was higher than all serum samples examined (62.59 +/- 5.73 ng/ml). Serum leptin above 59.48 +/- 7.6 ng/ml was associated with 'poor' embryo quality and above 56.87 +/- 5.52 ng/ml with pregnancy failure. Elevated leptin concentrations were associated with reduced ovarian stimulation and response, follicle maturation, embryo quality and pregnancy success. Our findings suggest that leptin modulates embryo quality and may serve as a sensitive marker of IVF outcome.

Published 2 December 2005 in Reproduction, 130(6): 917-21.
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