Comparison of IL-1β, IL-17 and IL-18 Levels in the Follicular Microenvironment in Tubal Factor and Unexplained Infertility Cases in IVF Cycles

This study compares follicular fluid (FF) and serum IL-1β, IL-17, and IL-18 levels, as well as total antioxidant (TAC) and total oxidant (TOC) capacities in cases of tubal factor and unexplained infertility, and to investigate the relationship of these parameters with oocyte and embryo quality and clinical pregnancy outcomes. Seventy patients undergoing IVF cycles were divided into two groups: tubal factor (n = 35) and unexplained infertility (n = 35). IL-1β, IL-17, and IL-18 levels in FF and serum samples were measured by ELISA; TAC and TOC were measured spectrophotometrically. Intergroup differences and correlations between biochemical markers and embryological variables were statistically analysed. In the unexplained infertility group, IL-1β, IL-17, IL-18 levels were significantly higher, TAC levels were lower, and TOC and OSI values were increased, particularly in follicular fluid (p 0.05). No significant differences were found in serum levels. In FF, positive correlations were found between cytokine levels and TOC and OSI, and negative correlations with TAC. In logistic regression analysis, FF IL- 18 (OR = 0.78, p = 0.02) and OSI (OR = 0.82, p = 0.03) were independent factors reducing the likelihood of clinical pregnancy. Cases of unexplained infertility are characterised by follicular microenvironment inflammasome-Th17 activation and redox imbalance. This condition may adversely affect oocyte and embryo quality. Analysis of IL-1β, IL-17, IL-18, TAC, TOC, and OSI levels in FF and serum may guide diagnostic differentiation and targeted treatment strategies. The findings suggest that antioxidant and inflammasome-targeted approaches may be potential adjunctive treatment options in unexplained infertility.