This study aimed to investigate the relationship between
follicular fluid Bisphenol A (BPA) concentrations with alterations of
ICAM-1 and HLA-G genes and proteins expression as well as methylation
profiles in the cumulus cells of poor ovarian response (POR) women based
on their healthy lifestyle habit. Eighty women under the age of 35 were
divided into two groups: 1-POR without using plastic containers (n =
40) and 2-POR with using plastic containers (n = 40). The ICAM-1 and
HLA-G genes and protein expressions were examined by the quantitative
PCR and western blotting technique. The methylation pattern was
investigated by the methylation-specific PCR. Total BPA in follicular
fluid was measured with high-performance liquid chromatography technique
and the detection limit was 1.14 ng/ml. ICAM-1 and HLA-G genes were
differentially expressed between the two groups studied. ICAM-1, HLA-G
genes, and protein expressions in group 1 were up-regulated compared to
the second group (P < 0.05). While DNA methylation status in group 1
were decreased compared to the other group (P < 0.05). The
concentration of BPA in the follicular fluid of group 1 was lower
compared to the second group (P < 0.05). The oocyte quality and
clinical pregnancy ratio showed significantly higher in group 1 than in
the other ones (P < 0.05). The alteration of ICAM-1 and HLA-G gene
expressions in POR women is probably related to BPA concentration. As a
result Lifestyle habits may also affect the methylation pattern and
protein levels in the cumulus cells of POR women. Additionally,
lifestyle habits may be considered as a marker for ovulation, oocyte
maturation, preimplantation, and clinical pregnancy process.