Intrafollicular soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products (sRAGE) and embryo quality in assisted reproduction

The developmental potential of human embryos has important implications in assisted reproduction and depends, among other factors, on oocyte competency. The receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) is a member of the superfamily of immunoglobulin cell-surface molecules that are constitutively expressed during embryonic development. RAGE is down-regulated in homeostasis in adult life. This study measured the concentration of soluble RAGE (sRAGE) in follicular fluid obtained from the leading follicle after ovarian stimulation of 54 women undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Corresponding embryos and sRAGE concentrations in follicular fluid were evaluated and correlations were investigated by multi-adjusted regression analysis. High intrafollicular sRAGE concentrations predicted poor-quality embryos (n = 45, OR = 0.986; P = 0.026), adjusted for patient age, body mass index and oocyte quality, showing an inverse association between intrafollicular sRAGE concentrations and embryo development. RBMOnline (C) 2012, Reproductive Healthcare Ltd. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.