Rosalind Franklin University Pioneers New Era in Reproductive Health with Advanced Immunology Testing

CHICAGO, IL – October 29, 2025 – Rosalind Franklin University (RFU) researchers are at the forefront of reproductive immunology, developing cutting-edge diagnostic tests and deepening our understanding of the immune system’s critical role in healthy pregnancies and overcoming reproductive challenges. Presenting their latest findings at the 2025 American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) Congress, RFU scientists are poised to reshape the landscape of fertility treatment and improve outcomes for women worldwide.

Decoding the Endometrium: A New Approach to Fertility Testing

RFU’s Dr. Joanne Kwak-Kim and Dr. Svetlana Dambaeva are spearheading research focused on optimizing endometrial receptivity – the ability of the uterine lining to support embryo implantation. A key innovation is the 'Decidualization Score Test' (DS), a molecular assay that assesses the endometrial immune profile to identify potential barriers to implantation. Unlike traditional methods, the DS analyzes the expression of six key genes—FOXO1, GZMB, IL15, SCNN1A, SGK1, and SLC2A1—providing a detailed molecular snapshot of endometrial health.

“The DS is a significant step forward because it goes beyond simply determining if the endometrium is ‘ready’,” explains an anonymous expert in reproductive endocrinology. “It provides a nuanced understanding of why the endometrium might be failing to support implantation, allowing clinicians to tailor treatment plans to address specific immune dysfunctions.” The test holds particular promise for women with recurrent implantation failure or unexplained infertility, offering a potential pathway to more effective and personalized treatment.

RFU’s commitment to innovation extends beyond the DS, with ongoing research exploring new biomarkers and refining existing assays to improve diagnostic accuracy and predictive power. Dr. Kwak-Kim, a past-president of the American Society for Reproductive Immunology, is a leading voice in the field, advocating for a more comprehensive and individualized approach to fertility treatment.

The Immune System’s Complex Role in Pregnancy Success

Central to RFU’s research is the recognition that the immune system plays a surprisingly complex and often paradoxical role in reproductive health. While the immune system is essential for defending against infection, it must also tolerate the semi-allogeneic fetus – a genetically distinct entity – to allow pregnancy to proceed successfully. Disruptions in this delicate balance can lead to pregnancy loss, implantation failure, or other complications.

RFU researchers are investigating the role of specific immune cells and cytokines – signaling molecules that regulate immune responses – in both successful and unsuccessful pregnancies. A particular focus is interleukin-22 (IL-22), a cytokine with both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory properties. While elevated IL-22 levels have been linked to pregnancy loss, recent research suggests that IL-22 may also play a protective role in certain contexts, promoting placental development and preventing preterm labor. “IL-22 is a fascinating example of how the immune system can be both a friend and a foe in pregnancy,” explains an anonymous immunologist involved in the research. “Understanding the specific conditions under which IL-22 exerts its effects is crucial for developing targeted therapies.”

RFU’s research also sheds light on the importance of natural killer (NK) cells, a type of immune cell that plays a complex role in pregnancy. While NK cells are essential for fighting infections, they can also attack the developing fetus if their activity is not properly regulated. RFU researchers are exploring ways to modulate NK cell activity to promote immune tolerance and improve pregnancy outcomes.

Global Reach and Expanding Impact

RFU’s Clinical Immunology Laboratory serves as a hub for specialized testing, providing diagnostic services to over 450 clinics in the United States and 30 countries. The laboratory conducts over 40,000 specialized tests annually, contributing to a deeper understanding of reproductive immunology on a global scale. “The laboratory’s extensive network allows us to collect data from a diverse patient population, which is essential for validating our findings and ensuring that our tests are accurate and reliable,” notes an anonymous laboratory director involved in the project.

RFU’s commitment to international collaboration extends beyond diagnostic testing. The university actively participates in research collaborations with institutions around the world, fostering a shared commitment to advancing reproductive health. The university’s long-standing history of innovation and dedication to improving patient care positions it as a leading force in the field of reproductive immunology, promising continued advancements in the years to come.