Decreased number of p16-positive senescent cells in human endometrium as a marker of miscarriage

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the number of p16-positive cells in the functional layer of the endometrium could be a useful biomarker to identify women with recurrent implantation failure (RIF) undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) at risk of miscarriage. Immunohistochemical staining was performed in 311 endometrial biopsies taken during mid-luteal phase using antibody against p16INK4A. The percentage of p16-positive cells was determined in luminal, glandular and stromal endometrial cells. After embryo transfer, women were divided into the following groups: unsuccessful embryo implantation (n = 151), miscarriage (n = 66) and live birth (n = 94). The percentage of p16-positive cells in all endometrial compartments was compared among these groups. We found that the percentages of p16-positive glandular and luminal epithelial endometrial cells were significantly higher in patients with live births compared to women with miscarriage (9.3% vs. 2.9%, P < 0.001; and 35.2% vs. 11.7%, P = 0.001, respectively). This tendency was not confirmed in thе stroma. The cut-off values with p16-positive luminal cells lower than 12.5% and p16-positive glandular cells lower than 3.2% could be predictive factors for miscarriage (AUC 0.80 and 0.79; sensitivity 71.3% and 74.5%; specificity 74.2% and 71.2%, respectively). A decreased number of senescent p16-positive cells could be involved in the implantation failures and aetiology of recurrent miscarriage. Women with history of RIF with reduced populations of p16-positive cells in the endometrial glandular and luminal epithelium may be at greater risk for unsuccessful implantation and miscarriage. The percentage of p16-positive luminal epithelial cells may be clinically useful as a biomarker of miscarriage.