Autoantibodies: Key Mediators of Autoimmune Infertility

Abstract

Autoimmune diseases have gender bias with predominance in females, autoimmune infertility (AI) being no exception. This chapter will focus on AI in females with brief reference to the same in males. Autoimmune diseases have established protocols for detection and management of ensuing infertility, however similar protocols for unexplained infertility [tubal blockage, endometriosis, premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), undiagnosed underlying autoimmune disease (Sjögren's syndrome, IBS, celiac disease) and tubal blockage] are not established. Endometriosis and POI, in particular, have autoimmune etiology yet lack specific and sensitive biomarkers for accurate diagnosis. If autoantibodies are indeed diagnosed, then treatment regimen focuses on AI which has known adverse effects. The detection of natural antibodies as autoantibodies presents a viable alternative to organ specific biomarker panel for better management of AI.

Treatment of D-galactose-induced rat polycystic ovarian condition using Lepidium sativum and secondary antibodies

“…The presence of AOA, whether directed towards ovarian or oocyte tissues, suggests the identification of an autoimmune process that could be the primary or subsequent reaction to an ovarian combination. Endometriosis and other reproductive issues, like adrenal insufficiency, were also linked to AOA [ 34 ]. In the present work, the AOA was assessed in the treated rat groups as well as the normal and D-galactose-induced PCOS groups.…”