The study of association between polymorphism of TNF-α gene's promoter region and recurrent pregnancy loss

Abstract

Background: According to the literature review, polymorphisms of tumor necrosis factor alpha's (TNF-α) promoter region are probably the genetic risk factors of recurrent pregnancy loss. This study has investigated five single nucleotide polymorphisms in the TNF-α gene's promoter region to evaluate their relationship with recurrent pregnancy loss disorder. Methods: Blood samples were taken from 65 women with recurrent pregnancy loss (Case group) and 65 healthy women with a history of successful pregnancy (Control group). Polymerase chain reaction with high resolution melting (PCR-HRM) analysis was done to determine the promoter region of-308G/A,-850T/C,-238G/A,-1031T/C and-863A/C TNF-α polymorphisms. The data were assessed using logistic regression models. P values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: Significant associations were found between recurrent pregnancy loss and-863C/A (p=0.000),-308G/A (p=0.045), and-238G/A (p=0.034) polymorphisms. TNF-α polymorphisms of-863C and-238G may be susceptible factors of recurrent pregnancy loss cases. The-308G polymorphism has an important role in maintaining pregnancy. Conclusion: The-863C/A and-238G/A TNF-α polymorphisms are possible genetic risk factors of recurrent pregnancy loss and might be its predictive markers. © 2018 Avicenna Research Institute. All rights reserved.