Molecular Markers in Embryo Non-Development: Analysis of Gene Expressions (Ki-67, hTERT, HIF-1α) in Spent Embryo Culture Medium

An embryo culture medium is a specialized set of ambient conditions, technological equipment, and nutrients that embryos require to grow properly. We aimed to investigate the <i>Ki-67</i>, <i>hTERT</i>, and <i>HIF-1α</i> gene expression differences between developing and non-developing embryos in spent embryo culture medium. <i>Ki-67</i>, <i>hTERT</i>, and <i>HIF-1α</i> gene expressions were determined from the spent embryo culture medium containing developing and non-developing embryos of 20 normoresponder patients admitted to the Bahçeci Umut IVF Center. An increase in <i>hTERT</i> gene expression (<i>p</i> < 0.05) and a decrease in <i>HIF-1α</i> gene expression (<i>p</i> < 0.001) were observed in mediums of developing compared to the non-developing embryos. No difference was observed in <i>Ki-67</i> gene expression (<i>p</i> > 0.05). While there was a correlation between <i>Ki-67</i> and <i>HIF-1α</i> genes in the non-growing group (r < 0.01); no correlation was observed in the developing group (r > 0.05). Both normoresponder groups will be similar in terms of proliferation rate. The low <i>HIF-1α</i> expression that observed high telomerase activity in embryo development maintains continuity and avoids mechanisms that result in cell death. A molecular study of the embryo development in patients with similar characteristics may help to understand the pathogenesis of the disease and establish a diagnosis and specific treatment.