Epigenetically regulated imprinted gene expression associated with IVF and infertility: possible influence of prenatal stress and depression

ConclusionsIn combination, the studies discussed, as well as two recent projects of our own on placental imprinted gene expression, suggest that lower birthweights in IVF infants are secondary to a combination of exposures including the infertility and prenatal stress that couples undergoing IVF are experiencing. The work highlighted herein emphasizes the need for appropriate control populations that take infertility into account and also for consideration of prenatal psychosocial stressors as confounders and causes of variation in IVF infant outcomes.
Source: Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics - Category: Reproduction Medicine Source Type: research