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| via flickr.com |
"Led by Prof. Mohamed Lamkanfi (VIB-Ghent University), researchers have demonstrated in animal models that a protein called NLRP2 plays an important role in early embryogenesis, the process of cell division in fertilized eggs that occurs before they implant into the lining of the uterus. In addition, the protein was shown to become more important with increasing maternal age, as blocking NLRP2 in eggs prevented them from developing in blastocysts. As a similar protein exists in humans, these insights may lead to greater understanding of reproductive disorders and novel paths to treatment. The study was recently published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine.
About one in six couples experience fertility issues, and maternal age is considered the primary factor driving the demand for in-vitro fertilization and other reproductive technologies. Although scientists have a good understanding of the roles hormones play in embryonic development, little is known about the mechanisms that govern early embryogenesis. The study conducted by Prof. Lamkanfi and his team have helped to shed light on age-linked elements that influence embryonic development.
No role in immunity or inflammation
Before this research, scientists had widely believed that the NLRP2 protein played a role in the immune system, as similar proteins were found to have key roles in controlling infections and regulating inflammation. Prof. Lamkanfi's team had initially expected similar findings for NLRP2 and focused the study accordingly -- but they were surprised not to find any link between the protein and immune functions. Prof. Mohamed Lamkanfi (VIB-UGent): "Contrary to expectations, we failed to find any role for NLRP2 in immunity and inflammation. As a result, we refocused our studies on reproduction after discovering that NLRP2 is specifically produced by egg cells, or oocytes, showing that the protein is critical to the maintenance of oocyte quality later in life..."
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