Gene mutation causes infertility

RESEARCHERS have identified a gene mutation that may provide answers to why some women have low reproductive success and fertility.

Scientists have not yet been able to identify the cause of the problem in about 10 to 15% of couples with infertility and 50% of women with recurrent pregnancy loss.

The findings, conducted in a mice model, showed that women who lacked the gene called NLRP2 had a spectrum of negative reproductive outcomes, including recurrent loss of pregnancies with abnormally developing placen- tas, loss of the embryo before implantation, or, more rarely, having a baby with developmental disabilities.

Conversely, when male mice lacked the gene, there was no impact on fertility or offspring, the researchers said.

But, when the females lacking the NLRP2 gene mated, three types of outcomes were observed – some did not get pregnant, others had stillborn pups with abnormalities and a third group of females gave birth to live pups of normal appearance, but fewer per litter. – IANS