Scientists find genetic 'switch' behind embryo implantation
Researchers from IISc, ICMR-NIRRCH, and BHU have discovered how two genes—HOXA10 and TWIST2—act like a switch to control the first step of pregnancy: when an embryo attaches to the uterus.
Their findings were just published in Cell Death Discovery.
How does this genetic switch work?
HOXA10 keeps the uterine lining stable by controlling over 1,200 genes.
When an embryo shows up, HOXA10 steps back so TWIST2 can take charge.
This lets uterine cells loosen up just enough for the embryo to settle in—without causing major changes to the tissue.
Why does it matter?
This discovery could help explain why some people struggle with infertility or early pregnancy loss—even when embryos are healthy.
Since blocking TWIST2 stops implantation altogether, understanding this switch might lead to better IVF treatments and new ways to tackle implantation failure.