Abstract
The oxidative stress, characterized by the imbalance between pro-oxidants and antioxidants molecules, seems to be involved in the pathogenesis of female subfertility. In particular, the presence of different markers of oxidative stress has been reported in human follicular fluid (FF) surrounding oocytes. Based on its distinctive composition and on the close proximity to the oocyte, FF creates a unique microenvironment having a direct impact on oocyte quality, implantation, and early embryo development. An imbalance in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in ovarian follicular fluid may have a negative effect on these processes and, as a consequence, on female fertility. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the redox state of the FF through various methodological approaches. By means of 2D-electrophoresis we demonstrated that the main structural changes occurring in the proteins of the follicular fluid of normovulatory women were correlated to the age of the patients and to the antioxidant defenses present in the FF. Measurement of these parameters could have clinical relevance, since the assessment of the oxidative stress rate may be helpful in evaluating in vitro fertilization potential.
Highlights
The ovarian follicle, the natural milieu where the oocyte growths, is the metabolically active beating heart where a complex network of signalling pathways guarantees the appropriate oocyte maturation, which is needed for fertilization to take place [1]
All patients included in this study were normovulatory and were divided into two main groups, according to patient age, a specific parameters affecting the female fertility; the Antioxidants 2020, 9, x FOR PEER REVIEW
When the patients were grouped according to the age, no significant differences were found in FSH, LH, or E2 enrolled patients were grouped according to the age, no significant differences were found in FSH, levels on the day of hCG injection
Summary
The ovarian follicle, the natural milieu where the oocyte growths, is the metabolically active beating heart where a complex network of signalling pathways guarantees the appropriate oocyte maturation, which is needed for fertilization to take place [1]. Represents an important component of the oocyte microenvironment significantly contributing to the appropriate follicular growth and oocytes maturation. Its biochemical composition reflects the functional state of the follicle, and, as a consequence, the oocyte competence, which in turn affects oocyte quality and its potential to achieve fertilization [4,5]. Numerous studies investigating the molecular composition of FF have led to the identification of biomarkers for a wide range of fertility issues [3]
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