Abstract: The present disclosure teaches an assay to determine the likelihood of a successful implantation of an embryo into a female subject leading to a pregnancy. Enabled herein is an improved assisted reproduction technology protocol based on a prognostic evaluation of pregnancy outcomes. Taught herein is a composition comprising reagents required for the prognostic evaluation. Taught herein are assays comprising determination of levels of the biomarkers IL-8, G-CSF and/or VEGFA in a biological fluid sample taken before embryo implantation.

Abstract: The present disclosure teaches an assay to determine the likelihood of a successful implantation of an embryo into a female subject leading to a pregnancy. Enabled herein is an improved assisted reproduction technology protocol based on a prognostic evaluation of pregnancy outcomes. Taught herein is a composition comprising reagents required for the prognostic evaluation. Taught herein are assays comprising determination of levels of the biomarkers IL-8, G-CSF and/or VEGFA in a biological fluid sample taken before embryo implantation.

Abstract: This invention relates to the role of the enzyme proprotein convertase 5/6 in pregnancy, and in particular to the detection or modulation of proprotein convertase 5/6 and its isoforms in the uterus. This enzyme is useful in the control of fertility, the monitoring of early pregnancy, and for the detection of uterine receptivity. The invention also relates to methods of screening for compounds which have the ability to modulate the activity or expression of proprotein convertase 5/6, which may be useful in regulating fertility in mammals. Novel forms of proprotein convertase 5/6 are also disclosed and claimed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a enzyme predicted to be a serine protease, which is specifically expressed in association with embryo implantation and placentation in pregnant uterus. The enzyme of the invention is useful in the evaluation of fertility and monitoring of early pregnancy, placental development and function, fetal development, parturition, and conditions such as pre-eclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, early abortion, abnormal uterine bleeding, endometriosis, and cancers, and may provide a potential target for contraception. It may also be important in diseases of the heart, testis or ovary, and may play a role in muscle function, including cardiac muscle, skeletal muscle, lung and the diaphragm. In addition the enzyme of the invention is useful in the screening of candidate drugs for fertility control or for treatment of fertility-related disorders.

Abstract: This invention relates to methods for assaying the presence and/or risk of endometrial cancer by measurement of levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and/or matrix metalloproteinase-9 in uterine washings. The method may be qualitative or quantitative, and is adaptable to large-scale screening and to clinical trials.