Expression of Various Genes in Granulosa Cells Derived from Women Undergo IVF Procedures

In the last decade a significant increase in the percentage of pregnancies in "In Vitro Fertilization" (IVF) procedures is observed, even though, there are cases of unexplained infertility. Telomerase (Telo) and topoisomerase I (Topo) are nuclear enzymes with essential activities needed for maintaining the normal functions and survival of cells in organisms.

The major goal of this study is to evaluate the relations and interactions between the expression and the activity of Telo and topo I in Granulosa cells (GCs) to fertility/infertility of women, and in the presence new telomerase activating compounds (AGS). GCs were collected from follicular liquid of women undergoing IVF after the oocyte was taken for IVF procedures. Telo and Topo activity and expression were examined by using TRAP assay, and RT-PCR respectively.

Variations in Telo and Topo I activities in the GCs derived from the examined women were detected. Dividing the patients into two groups according to the cause of infertility, showed low but not significant Telo activity within the group diagnosed as "female infertility". In general Telo expression decreases with woman`s age, but it increases with AGS, especially in older women, while in male infertility group, the increase in Telo expression was determined in all ages. Specific GCs genes expression (known as GCs`s markers: camta1, unc-5, 3bhsd, B4galt 2, star), showed different expression pattern due to the presence/absence of AGSs.

Deep understanding of the enzymes participating in maintenance of oocytes and GCs quality and functionality is important for the design of strategies to treat human infertility.