Abstract
Background/Objectives: Cumulus cells have been proposed to be indicators of oocyte quality. In this study, oocyte cumulus cells were analyzed for SERPINE gene expression. High SERPINE gene expression in cumulus cells is associated with reduced oocyte maturity. However, high mRNA levels in granulosa cells are associated with follicles that result in pregnancy. This study aimed to evaluate SERPINE gene expression in cumulus cells across different ovarian stimulation protocols and its potential impact on follicle number, oocyte maturity, and embryo quality. Methods: The sample of the study consisted of 93 infertile women that underwent a five-day fixed antagonist protocol. Detection of SERPINE gene expression levels in cumulus cells was performed by extracting and isolating the total RNA produced in granulosa cells, and conducting cDNA synthesis and Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction. Results: The SERPINE gene expression in CCs was assessed in 71 samples. The SERPINE gene expression levels in CCs were categorized based on the ΔCp values. Most participants (65.9%) exhibited a high expression of the SERPINE gene, with ΔCp values greater than 2. Higher gene expression resulted in a higher number of follicles. However, no statistically significant results were observed regarding the number of follicles and the number of embryos. Conclusions: The study results provide insights into the expression patterns of the SERPINE gene in CCs and underscore the complexity of fertility-related biomarkers and the need for further investigation. SERPINE expression appears to be associated with follicle count, while its role in predicting oocyte quality and pregnancy success remains inconclusive.