Autoantibodies to vascular endothelial growth factor in women with premature ovarian insufficiency

Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF), particularly VEGF-A, play a key role in angiogenesis processes associated with folliculogenesis and embryo implantation. Impaired angiogenesis, as well as the autoimmune mechanism, are important components in the pathogenesis of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), but their relationship remains unexplored. Objective. to evaluate the frequency and level of autoantibodies to VEGF-A in patients with POI compared to women with normal ovarian reserve. Material and methods. Using a modified enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay with recombinant human VEGF-A, serum autoantibodies (M, G) to VEGF-A were analyzed in women with POI (Group 1, n=52) and normal ovarian reserve (Group 2, n=30). Results. Groups 1 was characterized by diminished ovarian reserve, a high rate of primary infertility, endocrine and allergic diseases, ART programs, and surgical operations. Anti-VEGF-A antibodies were detected more frequently in Group 1 (36.5%) than in Group 2 (6.7%). The detection rate and level of IgG were higher in POI; the likelihood of their detection was 11.8 times higher than in the comparison group, and 8.3 times higher in patients with POI and autoimmune thyroiditis. Conclusion. Autoantibodies to VEGF-A were detected in patients with POI, their prevalence and levels were higher than in women with normal ovarian reserve. Antibodies may be a risk factor for POI and have clinical, diagnostic and pathogenetic significance. Further study of autoantibodies to regulatory angiogenic molecules in obstetric and gynecological pathology is necessary.