If we can figure out what it takes to turn alphav-beta3 on, we might have more answers as to how we could help women become pregnant. If we can understand the mechanism by which implantation occurs, we could also develop ways to block implantation in the future, allowing women a new type of contraceptive, Lessey says. Besides alphav-beta3 and LIF, there are probably many other vital biomarkers. Lessey says, Our goal is to look at each possible new biomarker as it comes into question and validate whether or not it s important to implantation. While the de Sousas and the Holloways were eventually able to conceive with treatment, not every story is a success.
Many couples grapple with emotional pain and frustration when treatments don t work.
We have a long way to go before we begin to ease even a small amount of that pain and frustration, Lessey says. Studies are funded in part by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development of the National Institutes of Health. Borton s research is funded through the Holderness Award, which provides second-year medical students with a stipend and research money. Discuss this story. All rights reserved. .