Standard human chorionic gonadotropin versus double trigger for final oocyte maturation results in different granulosa cells gene expressions: a pilot study

Objective To investigate the messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of reproduction-related genes in granulosa cells (GCs) of patients triggered with hCG compared with patients triggered with GnRH agonist and hCG (double trigger) for final oocyte maturation. Design Granulosa cells were obtained at the time of oocyte retrieval, and gene expression was analyzed using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Setting Referral center. Patient(s) Fifteen women undergoing controlled ovarian hyperstimulation for IVF who received hCG for final follicular maturation and in a subsequent IVF cycle received double trigger. Intervention(s) Granulosa cells collection. Main Outcome Measure(s) The expression of genes related to ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, gap junction, and epidermal-like growth factor in GCs. Result(s) The mRNA expressions of amphiregulin (2.1 vs. 1, arbitrary unit) and epiregulin (2.5 vs. 1, arbitrary unit) were significantly higher in the double trigger group compared with the hCG group. We found no difference in luteinizing hormone receptor and follicle stimulating hormone receptor mRNA expressions between the two groups. Moreover, although the mRNA expression of pigment epithelium-derived factor (1.5 vs. 1, arbitrary unit) was significantly higher in the double trigger group, no between-group differences were observed in the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and GnRH receptor. The mRNA expression of conexin43 in cumulus cells (0.7 vs. 1, arbitrary unit) was significantly lower in the double trigger group compared with the hCG group. Conclusion(s) Our findings suggest that the decreased expression of conexin43 and the increased expression of epiregulin and amphiregulin in the GCs from patients receiving the double trigger may explain the suggested improved oocyte and embryo quality related to the double triggering group.