Identification of Possible Circular RNA-MicroRNA-Messenger RNA Regulatory Axis As a Predictor for IVF Outcome

Approximately 15-20% of reproductive-aged couples are suffering from infertility worldwide, and many couples turn to in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) technique. This technique is a multi-step process involving controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH), oocyte recovery, in vitro fertilization, embryo cultivation, embryo selection, and embryo transfer.

The success of the IVF process is conditioned by the receptivity of endometrium, the selection of a competent embryo for transfer, and the determination of the window of implantation (WOI). The biggest causes of the negative outcome of the IVF process are poor embryo quality and low endometrial receptivity.

The implantation capacity of a morphologically high-quality embryo reaches only 50%, and the success rate of IVF may therefore still not exceed 30%.

The increased interest in assisted reproduction through IVF leads to an urgent need to identify biomarkers that reliably highly predict the success of pregnancy.

The current paradox is that multiple embryo transfer that may leads to severe obstetric and perinatal complications seems to be the most valid measure to secure high success rate in the majority of clinic centers. Therefore, to avoid multiple transfer of embryos, it is urgent to explore biomarkers for IVF prognosis to select high-quality oocytes and embryos.