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Multiplicity of molecular and cellular targets in human ovarian autoimmunity: an update

  • GONADAL PHYSIOLOGY AND DISEASE
  • Published:
Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose

To provide an update of putative auto-antigens identified and proposed to be involved in human ovarian autoimmunity.

Methods

Review of literature pertaining to ovarian auto-antigens / proteins identified with various immunological tools using sera of infertile women as a probe for investigation.

Results

An overview of autoimmune targets known till date in the study of human ovarian autoimmunity.

Conclusions

Anti-ovarian antibodies (AOA) to multiple components and compartments of the ovary are present in the sera of infertile women. Researchers propose that these AOA may be responsible for ovarian failures and therefore render women to be infertile. Evaluation of AOA can be effective as a prognostic factor in the treatment of infertile patients and for the IVF-ET program.

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Fig. 1
Fig. 2

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Acknowledgment

The author thanks the editorial team of the Journal of Histochemistry and Cytochemistry (USA) for allowing reproduction of Figs. 1 and 2 from his previous publication during his doctoral candidature viz., Pires et al., 2007—JHC 55(12): 1181–1190.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Cell Biology, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA

    Eusebio S Pires

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  1. Eusebio S Pires
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Correspondence to Eusebio S Pires.

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Capsule

Multiple auto-antigens identified by anti-ovarian antibodies are involved in ovarian autoimmunity which could result in ovarian insufficiency and thereby failure to perform its normal reproductive function.

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Pires, E.S. Multiplicity of molecular and cellular targets in human ovarian autoimmunity: an update. J Assist Reprod Genet 27, 519–524 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10815-010-9440-5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10815-010-9440-5

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