Ovulation stimulation protocols utilizing GnRH-antagonist/hCG, promote cytotoxic cell populations, predominant in patients with embryo implantation complications

Abstract

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist combined with the human chorionic gonadotropin hormone (hCG) is commonly used in assisted reproduction techniques (ARTs) to induce controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) and to synchronize oocyte maturation. The GnRH antagonist/hCG protocol promotes CD3+/CD8+ and KIR2DL4+ NK cell levels, more abundant in subjects with lower implantation rates, and thus decreases the embryotransfer success in otherwise fertile women.

Keywords

• ovulation induction
• chorionic gonadotropin
• gonadotropin-releasing hormone
• embryo implantation
• natural killer cells
• T-lymphocytes
• CD4/CD8 index
• KIR2DL4 receptor
• LILRB1 receptor