Association of Genetic Heterogeneity of PECAM1 and P-Selectin Genes with Implantation Failure After in Vitro Fertilization

OBJECTIVE: To examine, for the first time in the literature, the contribution of PECAM1 and P-selectin poly-morphisms in implantation failure after in vitro fertilization (IVF) embryo transfer. STUDY DESIGN: PECAM1-C373G (Leu125Val) and P-selectin-A37674C (Thr-715Pro) polymorphisms were investigated in 60 women with a history of IVF implantation failure and 60 fertile controls of Greek origin. RESULTS: An increased risk of implantation failure was found for women who were carriers of the PECAM1-G allele, as compared with those who were PECAMI-C homozygotes (OR =2.79, 95% CI 1.10-7.04), and a significant epistatic interaction was observed, the combined carriers of PECAMI-G and P-selectin-C alleles having an OR=16.25 (95% CI 1.44-183.10), in comparison with PECAM1-C and P-selectin-A double homozygotes. The above associations were strongest for the youngest subgroup of patients. CONCLUSION: Our results indicate that PECAM1-C373G (Leti125Va1) and P-selectin-A37674C (Thr715- Pro) polymorphisms may be associated with IVF implantation failure.