Objective
To determine the relationship between Progesterone Receptor Membrane Component-1 (PGRMC1) expression and the outcome of in vitro fertilization treatment.
Design
A prospective study in which PGRMC1 mRNA levels, methylation status of the Pgrmc1 promoter, and the presence of point mutations within Pgrmc1 were obtained from granulosa/luteal cells of women undergoing controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH).
Setting
Fertility center/Basic science laboratory
Patients
Eighty-five IVF patients and 10 women, who were undergoing COH for the purpose of oocyte donation, were included in this study.
Interventions
None.
Main Outcome Measures
PGRMC1 measurements were correlated with clinical outcomes, such as number of follicles, number of retrieved oocytes and ongoing pregnancy rates.
Results
PGRMC1 mRNA levels within granulosa/luteal cells of 18% of IVF patients were > 2.25 fold higher than those of oocyte donors. Individuals with elevated PGRMC1 mRNA levels had 30% fewer large follicles and fewer oocytes retrieved. The elevated PGRMC1 mRNA levels were associated with an increase in the methylation of Pgrmc1 promoter.
Conclusion
In patients with elevated PGRMC1 mRNA levels, gonadotropin-induced follicle development is attenuated, although sufficient numbers of follicles develop to allow for embryo transfer and subsequent pregnancy.
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