MOSCOW – Scientists at the Siberian State Medical University (SibSMU) have unveiled a new discovery related to the function of immune cells, which promises to significantly increase the chances of successful pregnancies through In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Their pivotal findings have been published in the esteemed journal, Frontiers in Bioscience-Landmark.
IVF is a well-established infertility treatment involving the fertilization of an egg in a laboratory setting, followed by its transfer into the uterus. The success of this intricate procedure is contingent upon numerous variables, among which the patient`s immune system status plays a critical role, as confirmed by the SibSMU research team.
The university`s researchers meticulously investigated how immune cells, found both in the follicular fluid surrounding the egg and in the bloodstream of patients, influence the quality of embryos. They highlighted that many prior studies have predominantly concentrated on single types of biological fluids and their soluble constituents, such as hormones and proteins.
Through their comprehensive analysis, the scientists determined that embryo quality is not exclusively dictated by age or hormonal balance, a long-held belief. Instead, the successful implantation of an embryo and the subsequent progression to pregnancy are profoundly impacted by the redistribution of specific immune cells—namely monocytes and macrophages—within the follicular fluid. This phenomenon, they found, is directly linked to inflammatory processes within the body.
“These inflammatory changes can stem from conditions like obesity or metabolic disorders, as well as prolonged exposure to viruses resulting from previous illnesses,” explained Evgeny Merkulov, an assistant professor at SibSMU`s Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, specializing in clinical laboratory diagnostics.
Merkulov further elaborated on the delicate equilibrium between `protective` and `attacking` immune cells, an essential factor for secure embryo attachment. This vital balance can be compromised by various pathological states. For instance, women who are overweight or experience other gynecological health issues are particularly susceptible to an imbalance, where `attacking` immune cells become predominant. Such an imbalance, he noted, significantly complicates the IVF process, often leading to difficulties in embryo implantation and the development of weaker embryos.
Leveraging these crucial insights, the scientists are now in the process of developing an `immune calculator.` This innovative model will be capable of predicting the probability of producing high- or low-quality embryos based on an analysis of the cellular composition.
“The data we`ve gathered offers an unprecedented opportunity for an in-depth exploration and understanding of the immune mechanisms fundamental to the onset of a successful pregnancy. This will enable us to devise novel strategies and algorithms to detect these imbalances, thereby streamlining and improving the IVF journey for patients,” commented Merkulov.
Moving forward, the research team plans to investigate the molecular mechanisms that can `reprogram` immune cells from an inflammatory state back to a restorative one. This future endeavor aims not only to enhance predictive capabilities but also to develop gentle methods for correcting a patient`s immune profile before the commencement of an IVF cycle, ultimately boosting the chances of achieving a successful pregnancy. This significant research was conducted as part of the national “Priority-2030” development program.
Rupert Blackwood 
Clement Ashworth