Detection of GSTM1-null Genotype in Women Undergoing IVF Treatment

Abstract

Background: Glutathione S-transferase (GST) M1 belongs to a family of detoxification enzymes and deficiency in enzyme activity is due to a homozygous deletion of the GSTM1 gene. Several studies reveal a possible correlation between female infertility and GSTM1 polymorphisms. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of the GSTM1-null polymorphism in female infertility as well as in IVF parameters. Methods: In the study group 125 women were classified as infertile according to WHO and 49 women with at least one successful pregnancy and no miscarriages, as control group. Genomic DNA from blood samples was isolated and PCR amplification was applied to determine the presence of GSTM1-null genotype. Results: Data analysis demonstrated a statistically significant higher presence of GSTM1-null variant in the infertile group compared to the control group. In a subgroup analysis of the infertile group, the estradiol levels, the number of fertilized oocytes as well as the number and the quality of the cumulus-oocyte complex, were statistically significant higher in women detected with the wildtype of GSTM1 gene compared to those who had the GSTM1 null genotype (deletion). Conclusions: Our study results propose a possible involvement of GMST1 in female infertility and may help elucidate possible interactions between the microenvironment of oocytes and the oxidative stress.