Correlation of somatostatin receptors to the outcome of IVF treatment

Whilst the success rate for in vitro fertilisation (IVF) has improved it is clear that there are still many factors that may influence a successful IVF attempt. It is known that there are a number of different factors that bind different types of proteins. One family of these protein factors that we have already found to be present in the endometrium are the somatostatin receptors. These somatostatin receptors have been shown to be very important in the growth of cells, cell death and cell protection from damage. It is also clear that they have an effect on the growth of new blood vessels, a process very important in fertility. However, whether they have a role in the endometrium and in fertility is currently unknown. There are five of these somatostatin receptors and the aim of this project is to look at all five of them in women undergoing future IVF treatment to see if there is a role of these somatostatin receptors in a successful IVF attempt and whether they may predict success.

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