Association of anti-phosphatidylserine/prothrombin antibodies with adverse in vitro fertilization outcomes

Abstract

Anti-phosphatidylserine/prothrombin antibodies (aPS/PT) are classified as non-criteria antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL), and are strongly associated with thrombosis and pregnancy complications linked to antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). This study aimed to investigate whether aPS/PT positivity is associated with adverse outcomes in vitro fertilization (IVF). The study included infertile women who tested positive aPS/PT and underwent IVF cycles, as well as infertile controls with pure tubal etiology. We compared the impact of aPS/PT on baseline and clinical characteristics, immune-related indicators, IVF laboratory metrics, and pregnancy outcomes. Women with aPS/PT exhibited lower numbers of retrieved oocytes, embryos, and both perfect and available embryos, as well as reduced rates of blastocyst formation. Furthermore, an imbalanced Th17/Treg ratio and significantly elevated serum IL-17A levels were observed in women with aPS/PT compared to controls. In conclusion, the presence of aPS/PT is associated with adverse IVF and pregnancy outcomes. Early screening for aPS/PT and appropriate consultation for couples undergoing IVF-ET should be considered. Additionally, specific immune and inflammatory mechanisms related to aPS/PT warrant further investigation.