Ovarian autoantigens (AOA)

"Ovarian autoantigens" refers to a heterogeneous collection of ovarian proteins that become targets of autoimmune attack in women with ovarian autoimmunity. Rather than a single therapeutic target, this term encompasses multiple distinct molecular antigens, including metabolic enzymes (ALDH1A1, α-enolase), heat shock proteins (HSP90β), structural proteins (vimentin), and reproductive-associated proteins (MATER)[1][3]. Detection of serum antibodies against these antigens—particularly ALDH1A1, SBP1, and α-enolase—serves as a biomarker for identifying women with autoimmune premature ovarian failure or unexplained infertility[1][3]. The presence of anti-ovarian antibodies is associated with reduced fertilization rates, decreased pregnancy rates, poor response to gonadotropin stimulation, and implantation failures[3]. These antigens are not suitable therapeutic targets for drug development; rather, their identification enables prognostic assessment in infertility evaluation and may support early intervention to prevent follicular destruction or retrieve oocytes before significant damage occurs[1].

Other names

Anti-ovarian antibodies (AOA)ovarian autoantigensovarian antigens

Not applicable — These are pathological antigens, not therapeutic targets