International Journal of Multidisciplinary Health Sciences and Research

Category: Original Article,      DOI: Recived: 12/05/2023, Accepted: 24/06/2023, Published online: 29/06/2023

Investigation of circulating microRNAs as Potential Biomarkers for Endometriosis Associated Infertility

Nidhi Chauhan

Background: Endometriosis-associated infertility affects a significant proportion of reproductive-age women, yet current diagnostic methods remain invasive and often delayed. Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as promising biomarkers for various diseases. This study investigated the potential of specific circulating miRNAs as non-invasive biomarkers for endometriosis-associated infertility.

Methods: A prospective case-control study was conducted over 12 months, involving 100 women with laparoscopically confirmed endometriosis and infertility (cases) and 100 fertile controls. Serum miRNA expression was analyzed using quantitative RT-PCR. Correlations between miRNA levels and clinical parameters were assessed.

Results: Five miRNAs were significantly dysregulated in cases compared to controls. MiR-126 and miR-199a showed the highest upregulation (2.8-fold and 3.2-fold, respectively) with excellent diagnostic accuracy (AUC 0.84 and 0.82). Strong correlations were observed between miR-199a expression and disease stage (r=0.72, p<0.01) and infertility duration (r=0.58, p<0.01). MiR-122 and miR-145 showed significant downregulation and negative correlations with disease severity. The combined miRNA panel demonstrated enhanced diagnostic accuracy compared to individual markers.

Conclusion: This study identifies a specific panel of circulating miRNAs as potential non-invasive biomarkers for endometriosis-associated infertility. The strong correlations with clinical parameters suggest their utility in disease monitoring and prognostication. These findings provide a foundation for developing non-invasive diagnostic tools for endometriosis-associated infertility.