Gene related to infertility identified

TOKYO, Nov. 27 Kyodo -
The gene that creates the right uterine environment following implantation of a
fertilized egg has been identified, a group of researchers said Saturday.
The gene, detected through experiments on mice, is believed to play an
important role in maintaining pregnancy at early stages as a fertilized egg
does not grow if this gene does not function, according to Toru Miyazaki,
professor at the University of Tokyo, who leads the group.
Given that human beings have similar genes and their pregnancy mechanism is
close to that of mice, the group plans to collect blood samples to examine if
there is a problem in the gene among women receiving fertility treatment, after
gaining approval from the ethics committee of the University of Tokyo's medical
school, Miyazaki said.
''While current sterility treatment focuses mainly on sperm, egg and ovulation,
it is important to look at the uterine environment following the
implantation,'' Miyazaki said.
He indicated the newly identified gene may provide clues to clarification of
infertility mechanisms and development of treatments.
Details of the process from implantation of a fertilized egg to placental
formation still remain unclear, according to experts.
Kazuhiko Imakawa, associate professor at the University of Tokyo, said it is
quite significant that the research has shown a part of these unexplained
mechanisms.
While the latest research will not directly lead to fertility treatment,
further study should boost the success rate of treatment, he said.
==Kyodo