Gonadal antibodies interfering with female reproduction.
While the involvement of anti-ovarian antibodies (AOAs) is highly likely, yet still controversial, in patients with patent premature ovarian failure (POF), it is even more difficult--for several reasons--to ascertain the clinical significance of these antibodies in patients without obvious ovarian failure. First, AOAs form a heterogeneous group of antibodies recognizing several different antigenic targets such as granulosa and thecal cells, zona pellucida, oocyte cytoplasm, corpus luteum, as well as gonadotrophins and their receptors. Second, the detection of AOAs in various clinical situations does not readily imply a causal relationship between these antibodies and impaired ovarian function. Third, diagnostic tools for detecting AOAs and their molecular targets have to be improved to yield more reliable data and allow a better comprehension of the pathophysiology of AOAs. Preliminary results with immunosuppressive therapy in selected AOA patients have been encouraging, but randomized trials have to be performed.
Monnier-Barbarino
Patricia
P
In Vitro Fertilization Unit, Maternité Régionale Universitaire, 10 Rue du Docteur Heydenreich, F-54000 Nancy, France. p.monnier-barbarino@maternite.chu-nancy.fr
Forges
Thierry
T
Faure
Gilbert C
GC
Béné
Marie Christine
MC
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007247:Infertility, Female / Q000209:etiology* / Q000276:immunology*; D010053:Ovary / Q000276:immunology*; D016649:Primary Ovarian Insufficiency / Q000150:complications* / Q000276:immunology*