Genetic variation in matrix metalloproteinase MMP2 and MMP9 as a risk factor for idiopathic recurrent spontaneous abortions in an Indian population.

Purpose: Matrix metalloproteinases, MMP2 and MMP9, are found to have an important role during ovulation and pregnancy because of their capacity to degrade components of the extracellular matrix (ECM) thereby facilitating cell migration and angiogenesis. In this respect, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the association of the promoter polymorphisms -1306 C > T and -1562 C/T in MMP2 and MMP9 respectively with couples diagnosed with idiopathic recurrent spontaneous abortions (IRSA). The expression levels of these two genes were also studied in fetal tissue.

Methods: In this case control study, a total of 35 couples with at least three consecutive IRSA and 35 fertile couples were included. Genotype analysis was performed using polymerase chain reaction and Sanger sequencing.

Results: No statistically significant differences were found in distribution of MMP2-1306C/T and MMP9-1562C/T genotypes in the three groups between the cases and controls.

Conclusion: Further genetic association studies on a larger number of IRSA couples, as well as evaluation of more MMP polymorphisms and their expression profiling are needed to establish the potential role of MMP polymorphisms in IRSA.