Background & Aims: Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL) is defined as two or more consecutive spontaneous abortions. Glutathione S-transferase genes produce isoenzymes that protect embryo against oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to determine the removal of the two genes, GSTT1 and GSTM1 in male partners of couples having RPL.

Materials & Methods: A case-control study of 102 cases was conducted including male partner of the patients with RPL, and 104 controls, male partner of the normal couples. The semen samples of the cases and controls were collected and analyzed. Peripheral blood from the cases and controls were collected. DNA was extracted and subsequently multiplex PCR based genotyping assays were used. Chi square-analysis, Fisher's exact test and correlation test were used for statistical evaluation.

Results: We found that 26.47% and 42.16% of the cases with RPL and 8.56% and14.42% of the controls had the GSTM1 and GSTT1 null genotype (asynchronously). The GSTM1 null genotype was found significantly more often in cases than in controls (26.47% versus8.56%, P < 0.05), the GSTT1 null genotype was found significantly more often in cases than in controls (42.16% versus 14.42%,P < 0.05). Also significant positive correlation (Corr=0.6; P<5%) between combined null genotype (simultaneous removal of GSTM1 and GSTT1) abnormal sperm morphology was seen.

Conclusion: The GSTM1 and GSTT1 null genotype in cases with RPL was found to be a risk factor in male partners of couples having RPL.

SOURCE: URMIA MED J 2016: 27(7): 561 ISSN: 1027-3727