Effect of follicular fluid NO, MDA and GSH levels on in vitro fertilization outcomes

The Impact of Follicular Fluid Oxidative Stress Levels on the Outcomes of Assisted Reproductive Therapy

Oocyte quality is a pivotal determinant of assisted reproductive outcomes. The quality of oocytes is intricately linked to their developmental microenvironment, particularly the levels of oxidative stress within the follicular fluid. Oxidative stress levels in follicular fluid may have a substantial influence on oocyte health, thereby impacting the outcomes of ART procedures. This review meticulously explores the intricate relationship between oxidative stress in follicular fluid and ART outcomes. Furthermore, it delves into strategies aimed at ameliorating the oxidative stress status of follicular fluid, with the overarching goal of enhancing the overall efficacy of ART. This research endeavors to establish a robust foundation and provide valuable guidance for clinical treatment approaches, particularly in the context of infertile women, including those of advanced maternal age.

Association of Mitochondrial Variants with the Joint Occurrence of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Hashimoto's Thyroiditis

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) among women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is higher than in the general female population, but the factors predisposing to the coexistence of these disorders remain unclear. This study employed whole genome sequencing of mitochondrial DNA to identify genetic variants potentially associated with the development of PCOS and HT and predisposing to their joint occurrence.

RESULTS

A total of 84 women participated, including patients with PCOS, HT, coexisting PCOS and HT (PCOS + HT) and healthy women. Both Fisher's exact and Mann-Whitney U statistical analyses were performed to compare the frequency of variants between groups. Ten differentiating variants were common to both analyses in PCOS + HT vs. PCOS, one in PCOS + HT vs. HT, and six in PCOS + HT vs. control. Several variants differentiating the PCOS + HT group from PCOS and controls were identified, located both in the mitochondrial genes (including the MT-CYB, MT-ND1, MT-ND2, MT-ND4, MT-ND6, MT-CO1, MT-CO3) and the D-loop region. Only two variants differentiated PCOS + HT and HT groups. One variant (13237a in MT-ND5) was common for all three comparisons and underrepresented in the PCOS + HT group. Functional enrichment analysis showed 10 pathways that were unique for the comparison of PCOS + HT and PCOS groups, especially related to ATP production and oxidative phosphorylation, and one pathway, the NADH-quinone oxidoreductase, chain M/4, that was unique for the comparison of PCOS + HT and control groups. Notably, nine pathways shared commonality between PCOS + HT vs. PCOS and PCOS + HT vs. control, related to the biogenesis and assembly of Complex I.

CONCLUSION

This study provides novel insights into the genetic variants associated with oxidative stress in women with coexisting PCOS and HT. Mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress appear to play a role in the pathogenesis of both conditions. However, more mitochondrial variants were found to differentiate women with both PCOS and HT from those with PCOS alone than from those with HT alone.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Oxidative Stress-From Bench to Bedside

Oxidative stress (OS) is a condition that occurs as a result of an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body's ability to detoxify and neutralize them. It can play a role in a variety of reproductive system conditions, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, preeclampsia, and infertility. In this review, we briefly discuss the links between oxidative stress and PCOS. Mitochondrial mutations may lead to impaired oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), decreased adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, and an increased production of ROS. These functional consequences may contribute to the metabolic and hormonal dysregulation observed in PCOS. Studies have shown that OS negatively affects ovarian follicles and disrupts normal follicular development and maturation. Excessive ROS may damage oocytes and granulosa cells within the follicles, impairing their quality and compromising fertility. Impaired OXPHOS and mitochondrial dysfunction may contribute to insulin resistance (IR) by disrupting insulin signaling pathways and impairing glucose metabolism. Due to dysfunctional OXPHOS, reduced ATP production, may hinder insulin-stimulated glucose uptake, leading to IR. Hyperandrogenism promotes inflammation and IR, both of which can increase the production of ROS and lead to OS. A detrimental feedback loop ensues as IR escalates, causing elevated insulin levels that exacerbate OS. Exploring the relations between OS and PCOS is crucial to fully understand the role of OS in the pathophysiology of PCOS and to develop effective treatment strategies to improve the quality of life of women affected by this condition. The role of antioxidants as potential therapies is also discussed.

The Role of Oxidative Stress in Infertility

(1) Background: Oxidative stress markers in the follicular fluid and serum of the patient with IVF results (number of fertilized oocytes, number of embryos, cumulative pregnancy rate) are important in establishing the causes of infertility. (2) Methods: 42 patients were enrolled in the study over the duration of 24 months and were divided into two groups: the study group divided into the female etiology for infertility as a tubal factor, diminished ovarian reserve, endometriosis, and unexplained infertility, and the control group consisting of the male factor, excluding the sperm donors and with no female factor cause. On the day of ovarian puncture in IVF, follicular fluid and serum were collected from the patients. (3) Results: Malondialdehyde from the follicular fluid was higher in the control group. The total antioxidant capacity in the follicular fluid is positively correlated with the pregnancy rate. There is no statistically significant difference in the oxidative stress markers from serum in both groups. (4) Conclusions: The capacity of the follicular fluid environment to contain the reactive oxygen species (ROS) leads to a higher pregnancy rate in the control group.

Protective effects of melatonin on deoxynivalenol-induced oxidative stress and autophagy in IPEC-J2 cells

This study explored protective effects of melatonin (MEL) on deoxynivalenol (DON)-induced toxicity in porcine jejunum epithelial cells (IPEC-J2). Cells were preexposed to MEL and then exposed to DON to detect cell viability, apoptosis, and oxidative stress indicators. Compared to DON treatment, pretreatment with MEL significantly increased cell proliferation. (P < 0.01), intracellular catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels (P < 0.05), decreased apoptosis and oxidative stress, and significantly attenuated the inflammatory response. RNA-seq analysis revealed that MEL protects IPEC-J2 from the adverse effects of DON by affecting the expression of tight junction and autophagy pathway-related genes. Similarly, further experiments revealed that MEL partly prevented DON-induced disruption of intestinal barrier function and decreased autophagy induced by DON via activation of the AKT/mTOR pathway. In conclusion, these results demonstrated the preventive properties of MEL against DON-induced cell damage by activating the antioxidant system and Inhibition of autophagy.

Follicular fluid biomarkers for prediction of human IVF outcome in women with poor ovarian response

Background

The aim of controlled ovarian stimulation is to achieve an optimal number of mature oocytes to obtain good-quality embryos. High follicular fluid (FF) concentrations of FSH, hCG, and LH promote oocyte maturation and are associated with a higher probability of fertilization. LH concentrations in FF are consistently higher in follicles that will lead to a successful IVF outcome. The levels of some of these FF biomarkers may vary among different ovarian stimulation schemes; however, the effects of corifollitropin alfa, recombinant FSH (rFSH), LH (rLH), and highly purified urinary menotropins uhMG on these biomarkers are still unknown. The objective of this study was to characterize the profile of FF biomarkers (leptin, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), metalloproteinases (MMPs), and NO2−/NO3−) according to three different protocols of controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) in poor ovarian responders (POR) and to evaluate the association between these profiles and clinical outcomes. Three groups of POR patients were examined according to the protocols used.

Results

Group C showed significant higher levels in all biomarkers (p < 0001). FF samples from Group B had the lowest levels of VEGF and Pro-MMP-9. Group A showed the lowest concentration of pro-MMP-2. The VEGF level and number of captured oocytes were positively correlated in Group C (r = 0.534, p = 0.01). MMP-9 and fertilization rate were negatively correlated in Group C (r = −0.476, p = 0.02). We found negative correlations between proMMP-2 and serum estradiol levels on the day of rhCG administration.

Conclusion

We found significant variations in the biomarker concentrations between the different controlled ovarian stimulation schemes used in POR patients. These differences can be potentially explained by the nature and composition of the gonadotropins. Our results support the hypothesis that some of these molecules should be thoroughly investigated as noninvasive predictors of egg quality.

Oxidative Stress-Related Signaling Pathways Predict Oocytes' Fertilization In Vitro and Embryo Quality

Oocyte development and fertilization are largely influenced by the microenvironment of the follicular fluid (FF), and the exploration of its molecular/metabolic composition may help in improving in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes. Here, the concentrations of molecules related to oxidative stress/inflammation were measured in FF from follicles at oocyte retrieval during IVF. Here, the FF antioxidant potential was correlated with the number of retrieved/mature oocytes and the number of fertilized ones. FF collected from the follicles of normal fertilized oocytes presented an elevated antioxidant capability, lower levels of pro-inflammatory molecules (i.e., IL-6, IL-8, IL-12, TGF-β, and HIF-1α), and a higher IL-10 concentration. FF samples from follicles at oocyte retrieval that resulted in top-quality embryos displayed a peculiar antioxidant capability and a further decrease in proinflammatory molecules when compared with FF, giving rise to poor-quality embryos. Finally, pro-inflammatory molecules were lower and accompanied by a high antioxidant capability in samples giving rise to successful embryo implantation. The antioxidant capability and IL-10 displayed a good predictive ability for fertilization and embryo quality. Overall, our data showed the great influence of oxidative stress on the oocytes' fertilization, and shed light on the importance of controlling the inflammatory and oxidative status of FF to obtain good-quality embryos with significant implantation potential.

Importance of Antioxidant Supplementation during In Vitro Maturation of Mammalian Oocytes

The in vitro embryo production (IVEP) technique is widely used in the field of reproductive biology. In vitro maturation (IVM) is the first and most critical step of IVEP, during which, the oocyte is matured in an artificial maturation medium under strict laboratory conditions. Despite all of the progress in the field of IVEP, the quality of in vitro matured oocytes remains inferior to that of those matured in vivo. The accumulation of substantial amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within oocytes during IVM has been regarded as one of the main factors altering oocyte quality. One of the most promising approaches to overcome ROS accumulation within oocytes is the supplementation of oocyte IVM medium with antioxidants. In this article, we discuss recent advancements depicting the adverse effects of ROS on mammalian oocytes. We also discuss the potential use of antioxidants and their effect on both oocyte quality and IVM rate.

MiR-483-3p improves learning and memory abilities via XPO1 in Alzheimer's disease

INTRODUCTION

Alzheimer's disease (AD), a common form of dementia, has been reported to influence 27 million individuals globally. Several risk factors including oxidative stress, gut microbiota imbalance, and cognitive activity are reported to be closely associated with the initiation or progression of AD. Although miR-483-3p was identified to be downregulated in AD patient serum. However, the biological role and mechanism of miR-483-3p remained unknown in AD. Here, we explored the role of miR-483-3p in AD.

METHODS

Sprague-Dawley rats were injected with homocysteine (Hcy) to establish an AD animal model. The Morris water maze tests and contextual fear tests were conducted to assess the cognitive and memory abilities of rats. TUNEL staining was utilized to determine cell apoptosis. Luciferase reporter assay was used to evaluate the binding relation between miR-483-3p and exportin 1 (XPO1).

RESULTS

Homocysteine treatment (400 μg/kg) induced the learning, cognitive and memory defects of rats. miR-483-3p was downregulated in Hcy-treated rat hippocampus. Functionally, miR-483-3p alleviated cell apoptosis and impairments of learning and memory abilities in Hcy-treated rats. In addition, miR-483-3p inhibited cell apoptosis and protein level of AD-associated factors (APP, BACE1, and Aβ1-42) in PC12 cells. In mechanism, miR-483-3p was confirmed to target XPO1 in PC12 cells. XPO1 displayed high level in rat hippocampus and was negatively correlated with miR-483-3p levels. Finally, XPO1 overexpression rescued the suppressive effect of miR-483-3p on cell apoptosis and protein levels of AD-associated factors.

CONCLUSIONS

miR-483-3p alleviates neural cell apoptosis and impairments of learning and memory abilities by targeting XPO1 in AD.

Lycopene Reduces the In Vitro Aging Phenotypes of Mouse Oocytes by Improving Their Oxidative Status

Simple Summary

Ovulation is the process of oocyte release from the ruptured mature ovarian follicle into the oviduct. Fertilization usually occurs within 10 h post-ovulation in most mammals. If fertilization is delayed, the oocyte viability and quality will decrease, with many deteriorative changes in oocyte phenotype due to oxidative stress. This process is termed postovulatory aging. Postovulatory aging is a major problem that limits the success of many assisted reproductive technologies. Lycopene is a red carotenoid dye found within tomatoes and other fruits and vegetables. Lycopene has been reported to have a strong free-radical scavenging ability. our data showed beneficial effects of lycopene supplementation of in vitro maturation media during in vitro aging of mouse oocytes by reducing the oxidative stress damages that led to their apoptosis. The present study introduces lycopene as a natural supplement to reduce the postovulatory aging of mammalian oocytes.

Abstract

Postovulatory aging is a major problem that limits the success of many assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). Oxidative stress is a leading cause of oocyte aging. This study investigated the effects of lycopene supplementation of in vitro maturation (IVM) medium during the aging of mouse oocytes on the oocytes’ morphology and oxidative stress status. Mouse cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were collected and cultured in the IVM medium either for 17 h, (freshly matured oocytes), or for 48 h, (in vitro-aged oocytes), with or without lycopene. The rate of fragmented and degenerated oocytes and the oocyte levels of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were estimated and compared. Oocytes aged with 200 nM lycopene revealed significantly less fragmentation and degeneration, lower H₂O₂ and MDA levels, and higher TAC, GSH and SOD levels than those aged without lycopene. CAT levels were unchanged by lycopene treatment. Taken together, our data showed beneficial effects of lycopene during in vitro aging of mouse oocytes by reducing the oxidative stress damages that lead to their apoptosis. The present study introduces lycopene as a natural supplement to reduce the postovulatory aging-dependent abnormalities of mammalian oocytes.

Irisin protects against sepsis-associated encephalopathy by suppressing ferroptosis via activation of the Nrf2/GPX4 signal axis

Sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) is a common complication of severe sepsis. Irisin is a novel exercise-induced myokine involved in the regulation of adipose browning and thermogenesis. This study is designed to verify the existence of ferroptosis in the pathogenesis of SAE and demonstrate that irisin attenuated cognitive dysfunction in SAE mice via inhibition of hippocampus ferroptosis. A mouse SAE model was induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) and in vitro model was established by LPS-stimulated hippocampus cells. Irisin were pre-treated in the models. We found that SAE triggered hippocampus ferroptosis, as evidenced by increasing ROS, iron content and MDA and reducing GSH level as well as altered ferroptosis-related protein (GPX4, ACSL4 and SLC7A11) expression, whereas irisin attenuated CLP-induced learning and memory dysfunction, neurologic severity score and hippocampus ferroptosis and microglial activation in SAE mice. However, the protective effect of irisin was eliminated by ferroptosis inducer Erastin. Consistently, irisin reduced ferroptosis and improved mitochondrial dysfunction in LPS-induced HT-22 cells, as evidenced by decreased lipid ROS and increased mitochondrial membrane potential. Furthermore, proteomics identified the differentially expressed proteins linked to ferroptosis in SAE. We also observed that irisin-mediated anti-ferroptosis was abolished by siRNA-Nrf2 or in Nrf2^-/- mice. Transwell assay revealed that irisin could prevent the recruitment and chemotaxis of microglial cells induced by ferroptotic hippocampal cells. In conclusion, irisin could ameliorate inflammatory microenvironment in SAE by suppressing hippocampus ferroptosis via the Nrf2/GPX4 signaling pathway.

Astaxanthin improves the development of the follicles and oocytes through alleviating oxidative stress induced by BPA in cultured follicles

This study is to investigate whether astaxanthin could alleviate the oxidative stress damages of follicles induced by BPA and improve the development of the cultured follicles and oocytes. Compared with BPA group, the survival rate, antrum formation rate, oocyte maturation rate and adherence area of the D8 and D10 follicles of the BPA+Asta group were significantly higher. The estrogen and progesterone in the culture medium of BPA+Asta group were significantly higher. PCNA in D8 and D10 granulosa cells and ERα in D10 granulosa cells of follicles in BPA+Asta group were significantly higher. The levels of malondialdehyde in the follicle culture medium, levels of ROS in the oocytes, the expression levels of caspase 3 and cathepsin B in the oocytes of the BPA+Asta group were significantly lower. However, the mitochondrial membrane potential, and the expression levels of antioxidant genes (CAT, SOD1 and SOD2) and anti-apoptotic gene Bcl-2 in the oocytes in the BPA+Asta group were significantly higher. Astaxanthin improves the development of follicles and oocytes through increasing the antioxidant capacity of follicles and oocytes, and relieving the BPA-induced oxidative stress during follicular development and oocyte maturation.

Clinical and Biochemical Potential of Antioxidants in Treating Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of infertility in reproductive-age women. Increased reactive oxygen species levels and decreased antioxidant capacity in PCOS patients can lead to metabolic disorders and damage the ovarian tissues, resulting in the occurrence of related symptoms. Antioxidants have been used in the treatment of PCOS and have yielded satisfactory outcomes due to their ability to counter oxidative stress. Many experiments on PCOS patients have proved that antioxidants can not only improve the ovarian environment, promote follicular maturation, and elevate oocyte quantities but can also regulate lipid and glucose metabolism as well as vascular endothelial cell function in PCOS patients, thereby attenuating adiposity and reducing the occurrence rate of chronic complications to ensure that patients can obtain long-term benefits. This review describes the use of antioxidants in PCOS, which have been used in the treatment.

Ozone treatment alleviates brain injury in cerebral ischemic rats by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway and autophagy

Stroke is the most frequent cause of disability in developed countries. A common phenomenon of stroke, cerebral ischemia, is threatening many lives worldwide. In addition, ozone treatment was previously reported to exert functions in relieving brain injury. In the current study, the therapeutic effects of ozone on cerebral ischemia are investigated. A rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was established. The brain water content was calculated by weighing brain tissues, and the 2, 3, 5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining was performed to measure brain infarction volume in rats. A colorimetric assay was conducted to examine expression levels of malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione in the rat hippocampus. Reverse transcription quantitative polymerase-chain reaction and Western blot analyses were employed to evaluate expression levels of Beclin1, LC3B, p62, and critical factors implicated in the NF-κB signaling pathway. We found that ozone significantly improved the survival rate of MCAO model rats, reduced the cerebral water content, and decreased the neurological scores of ischemic rats. Ozone markedly reduced cerebral ischemia-induced infarction in ischemic rats. Ozone decreased MDA levels and increased SOD, catalase, and GSH levels in the hippocampus of rats. Ozone significantly inhibited autophagy by decreasing Beclin1 and LC3B expression and increasing p62 expression. The ozone inactivated the NF-κB signaling pathway by decreasing the protein levels of TLR4, p-IKKβ, p-IKBα, and p-p65. We conclude that ozone treatment alleviates the brain injury in ischemic rats by suppressing autophagy and inactivating the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Dietary Total Antioxidant Capacity and Risk of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Case-Control Study

Among multiple factors that affect the etiology of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), diet has<br />an important contribution. Chronic oxidative stress has also been implicated in the development of PCOS. The<br />present study is an attempt to evaluate dietary total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and its relationship with odds of<br />PCOS in Iran.<br />Materials and Methods: The study was carried out as a case-control study in hospital outpatient clinics, Tehran,<br />Iran. Totally, 310 female participants with a history of PCOS and 602 age-matched controls took part in this<br />study between June 2015 and December 2018. A reproducible and valid 168-item semi-quantitative food frequency<br />inventory was utilized to determine the entire antioxidants of the usual diet in order to calculate dietary<br />TAC. The relationship of dietary TAC with odds of PCOS were assessed adjusting for potential confounders<br />through an estimation of two multivariable conditional regression models. The first tertile was presented as a<br />reference category.<br />Results: In a fully adjusted model, the highest tertile of dietary TAC was associated with a reduced odds of<br />PCOS [odds ratio (OR): 0.81, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.59, 0.96, P for trend: 0.038). In addition, PCOS odds decreased in the highest tertile of α-tocopherol intake (OR: 0.73, 95% CI: 0.56, 0.88, P for trend:<br />0.023). The adjusted ORs in the highest tertile of vitamin C, β-carotene and magnesium were 0.79 (95% CI: 0.83-0.97), 0.81 (95% CI: 0.67-0.98) and 0.91 (95% CI: 0.55-0.9 8) respectively, with a significant trend.<br />Conclusion: Our results provide evidence that there was a relationship between high TAC diets and lower odds of<br />PCOS.

Roles of Nitric Oxide in the Regulation of Reproduction: A Review

Nitric oxide (NO) has attracted significant attention as a stellar molecule. Presently, the study of NO has penetrated every field of life science, and NO is widely distributed in various tissues and organs. This review demonstrates the importance of NO in both male and female reproductive processes in numerous ways, such as in neuromodulation, follicular and oocyte maturation, ovulation, corpus luteum degeneration, fertilization, implantation, pregnancy maintenance, labor and menstrual cycle regulation, spermatogenesis, sperm maturation, and reproduction. However, the mechanism of action of some NO is still unknown, and understanding its mechanism may contribute to the clinical treatment of some reproductive diseases.

Nitrite and Nitrate Levels in Follicular Fluid From Human Oocyte Donors Are Related to Ovarian Response and Embryo Quality

Nitric oxide, a key regulatory molecule in the follicular fluid, has been suggested as a possible biomarker to predict ovarian response in stimulated cycles and the potential of the retrieved oocytes for developing high-quality embryos. Nevertheless, a consensus on whether or not nitric oxide can help in this context has not been reached. We simultaneously measured the oxidation products of nitric oxide, nitrite, and nitrate, via high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)-UV in follicular fluid samples from 72 oocyte donors. We found no associations of follicular fluid nitrite, nitrate, total nitric oxide, or nitrate/nitrite ratio with total or metaphase II (MII) oocyte yield. However, nitrite and nitrate levels were related to the yield of MII oocytes when this outcome was expressed as a proportion of all oocytes retrieved. The adjusted MII proportion in the lowest and highest nitrite levels were 68% (58–77%) and 79% (70–85%), respectively (p, linear trend = 0.02), whereas the adjusted MII proportion in extreme tertiles of nitrate levels were 79% (70–85%) and 68% (57–77%) (p, linear trend = 0.03). In addition, nitrate levels showed a suggestive inverse correlation with embryos with maximum or high potential of implantation (p = 0.07). These results suggest that the follicular fluid concentrations of nitrite and nitrate may be a useful tool in predicting how healthy oocyte donors respond to superovulation and the implantation potential of the embryos produced from their oocytes.

Altered transcriptome in cumulus cells of infertile women with advanced endometriosis with and without endometrioma

RESEARCH QUESTION

Is the transcriptome of cumulus cells of infertile women with advanced endometriosis (EIII/IV), with and without endometrioma, altered?

DESIGN

In this prospective case-control study, next-generation RNA sequencing was used to compare the transcript profile of cumulus cells among infertile patients undergoing ovarian stimulation for intracytoplasmic sperm injection with EIII/IV, with (n = 9) and without endometrioma (n = 9), and controls (n = 9). An in-silico enrichment analysis was conducted to establish the possibly altered pathways in cumulus cells of patients with endometriosis.

RESULTS

Most of the differentially expressed genes (DEG) were found when cumulus cells from women with EIII/IV with endometrioma were compared with controls (DEG, n = 461). In women with EIII/IV without endometrioma, only 66 DEG were verified compared with controls. The enrichment analysis showed that some DEG in cumulus cells of endometriosis are involved in important pathways for the oocyte competence acquisition, such as oxidative phosphorylation, metabolism, mitochondrial function, acetylation and steroid biosynthesis. No DEG were found when cumulus cells from women with EIII/IV with and without endometrioma were compared.

CONCLUSION

RNA sequencing results suggest that cumulus cells of infertile women with EIII/IV have an altered transcriptome, regardless of endometrioma. The present findings offer a better understanding of the genes and molecular mechanisms that may be involved in endometriosis-related infertility, mostly in the oocyte competence acquisition process.

Peroxiredoxin 4, a new oxidative stress marker in follicular fluid, may predict in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer outcomes

Background

Peroxiredoxin 4 (Prdx4), a member of the Prdx family, can catalyze the reduction of reactive oxygen species. This study aims to explore whether Prdx4 can serve as an effective marker in follicular fluid (FF) for predicting in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) cycle outcomes.

Methods

In this prospective study, all participants were recruited from the center of clinical reproductive medicine from 2017 September to 2018 December. Women with tubal or male factor infertility undergoing their first IVF/ICSI cycle were recruited (n=138). FF samples from each patient were collected on the day of oocyte retrieval. Prdx4 concentrations were measured, and the correlation between Prdx4 levels and IVF outcomes was analyzed.

Results

The results showed that pregnant women had higher levels of Prdx4 than nonpregnant women. Prdx4 was positively correlated with the oocyte fertilization rate (r =0.334; P=0.011) and good quality embryo rate (r =0.326; P=0.013). Furthermore, we found that the clinical pregnancy rate was positively correlated with Prdx4 levels in a concentration-dependent manner in the Prdx4 quartiles (<13.38, 13.83–16.93, 16.93–22.93, >22.93 ng/mL). The fertilization rates, clinical pregnancy rates and live pregnancy rates were all significantly higher in the highest Prdx4 quartile group than in the lowest quartile. Moreover, the results indicated that Prdx4 had an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.754, corresponding to an optimal cutoff point of 22.30 ng/mL.

Conclusions

Our results provide evidence that higher expression of antioxidants, such as Prdx4, in the FF of IVF patients tends to indicate a higher likelihood of pregnancy through an oocyte quality mechanism.

Systematic oxidative stress is not associated with live birth rate in young non-obese patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome undergoing assisted reproduction cycles: A prospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Oxidative stress may be associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and poor outcomes after assisted reproduction treatment. It is unclear if systematic oxidative stress is correlated with live birth rate in patients with PCOS after controlled ovarian stimulation. This study aimed to investigate the serum oxidative stress markers on the day of trigger hCG and its relationship with live birth rate in young non-obese women with or without PCOS undergoing in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) treatment.

STUDY DESIGN

In this prospective cohort study, 50 patients with PCOS and 50 patients without PCOS aged less than 35 years and undergoing IVF/ICSI between February 2017 and January 2018 were studied. The body mass index (BMI) of all participants was less than 28 kg/m². Serum malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels on the day of hCG were measured. Demographic and cycle characteristics, embryo laboratory data and pregnancy outcomes after fresh embryo transfer were analyzed. Univariate analysis and logistic regression analysis were used to analyze independent variables predicting the live birth rate.

RESULTS

After conventional ovarian stimulation, the patients with PCOS had higher serum MDA and GPx concentrations (P < 0.03) and lower serum SOD levels (P < 0.03) on the hCG trigger day than the controls. Further, the serum MDA and GPx levels on the trigger day were also positively correlated with the number of good quality embryos (R = 0.26, P = 0.01; R = 0.21, P = 0.04; respectively). However, cycle characteristics, IVF/ICSI outcomes and pregnancy outcomes were comparable between the two groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the rate of good quality embryos (OR 1.04, 95 %CI 1.01-1.06, P = 0.005) and the duration of infertility (OR 0.74, 95 %CI 0.56-0.98, P = 0.04) were predictive factors of live birth rate. The ROC curve analysis showed the AUC for the model was 0.76 (95 %CI: 0.67-0.86, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The data suggest that moderate systemic oxidative stress on the hCG trigger day had no detrimental effects on live birth rate in young and non-obese patients with PCOS after IVF/ICSI treatment.

Effects o follicular fluid oxidative status on human mural granulosa cells, oocyte competency and ICSI parameters

PURPOSE

The aim of the present study was to understand the molecular and genetic alterations involved in follicular fluid oxidative process by investigating human mural granulosa cells and to find possible biomarkers for oocyte competency and ICSI outcome measures.

METHODS

A total of 166 patients were included in the study. Total antioxidant and oxidant levels of follicular fluids were measured on the day of oocyte pick-up and oxidative status were calculated. Expression profiles of three potential target proteins in cases of oxidative stress (Hsp70, Tgf-β, Notch1), DNA status and chromatin integrity of mural granulosa cells were analyzed.

RESULTS

TAS levels were positively correlated with the Hsp70 and Tgf-β expression patterns of mural granulosa cells. Mature oocyte rate and fertilization rates were affected negatively by the presence of oxidative stress and a significant positive correlation was found with the oxidative status and the fertilization rate, whereas no correlation with the remaining ICSI parameters in the overall group.

CONCLUSIONS

Oxidative stress detected in follicular fluid adversely affects fertilization rates post-ICSI however no effect on the remaining parameters including embryo quality, pregnancy, and implantation rates. DNA damage, chromatin integrity were increased, whereas Hsp70 and Tgf-ß were decreased in mural granulosa cells in cases of oxidative stress which may indirectly reflect the oocyte competency and may be used as biomarkers for ICSI outcome measures.

Estradiol and Progesterone Levels are Related to Redox Status in the Follicular Fluid During in vitro Fertilization

Studies have reported a possible association between the levels of oxidative stress biomarkers in follicular fluid (FF) and infertility treatment outcomes. FF analysis can provide important information about oocyte quality. This study aimed to evaluate the possible correlation between oxidative stress biomarker and intrafollicular hormone levels and clinical and laboratory parameters in women during controlled ovarian stimulation. These women were undergoing in vitro fertilization with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).The FF samples were acquired from September 2012 to February 2014 from women undergoing private fertility treatment in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. A total of 196 women who were undergoing ICSI and had different infertility diagnoses were recruited. The FF from each patient (average patient age of 36.3 ± 4.3 years) was collected following puncture of just one follicle with the largest diameter. After ruling out blood contamination by spectrophotometry, 163 patient samples were utilized in the study. In the FF, the progesterone levels were negatively correlated with (a) hydrogen peroxide scavenging capacity (HPSC) (r = −0.294, P < 0.0001), (b) total number of follicles (r = −0.246, P < 0.001) and (c) total number of oocytes punctured (r = −0.268, P = 0.0001). The concentration of serum estradiol exhibited a positive correlation with intrafollicular HPSC (r = 0.165, P = 0.037). Our data indicate that the FF levels of estradiol and progesterone are related to the FF redox status, which is closely associated with the number of oocytes obtained during ICSI procedures.

Anti-Müllerian Hormone Regulates Stem Cell Factor via cAMP/PKA Signaling Pathway in Human Granulosa Cells by Inhibiting the Phosphorylation of CREB

Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) downregulates the level of stem cell factor (SCF) via the cAMP/PKA signaling pathway in human granulosa cells (GCs). Little information is available on the molecular mechanism underlying the interaction. This study is aimed at determining whether AMH regulates expression of SCF via the cAMP-PKA-CREB signaling pathway in human GCs. In the present study, we verified the binding of cAMP-response element-binding protein (CREB) to promoter of SCF in human GCs. Furthermore, the effect of CREB was tested on the SCF promoter, and the site of CREB binding to SCF promoter was identified using truncations as well as assays of SCF-promoted mutation and CREB mutation. To investigate the correlation among AMH, SCF promoter, and CREB, pGL-Basic-SCF+CREB was transfected into overexpressed AMH GCs (AMH-high GCs), low expressed AMH GCs (AMH-low GCs), and normal GCs (GCs), respectively. Finally, immunofluorescence, double immunostaining, and Western blot were carried out in AMH-high and AMH-low GCs to confirm the AMH-mediated regulation of SCF expression by inhibiting the phosphorylation of CREB (pCREB) in GCs. Results indicated CREB interacted with SCF promoter and significantly enhanced the transcription level of SCF. The CREB binding site was localized at 318-321 bp of SCF gene promote. AMH inhibits the expression of SCF by phosphorylation of CREB via the PKA signaling pathway in GCs. These findings provide an in-depth understanding of the molecular mechanism underlying AMH suppressing the follicle growth, which would aid in the development of a novel therapy.

Glutathione alleviates the cadmium exposure-caused porcine oocyte meiotic defects via eliminating the excessive ROS

Heavy metal cadmium (Cd) is a widespread environmental contaminant with a potential toxicity that might adversely influence the health of experimental animals and humans. It has been known that Cd might accumulate in vertebrates for many years and thus leads to the hepatic and renal toxicity. Additionally, Cd concentration in the ovary increases with age and is highly related to the reproductive hazard. However, the underlying mechanisms regarding how Cd affects the female reproductive system especially the oocyte quality have not yet fully defined. Here, we reported that Cd exposure led to the defective nuclear maturation of oocytes via the impairment of cytoskeleton assembly, displaying the aberrant spindle organization, chromosome alignment and actin polymerization. In the meantime, Cd exposure caused the impaired cytoplasmic maturation by showing the disrupted dynamics of mitochondrial integrity and cortical granules, and thereby resulting in the compromised sperm binding ability and fertilization capacity of oocytes. More importantly, we found that glutathione (GSH) supplementation was able to recover the meiotic failure induced by Cd exposure through suppressing the excessive ROS level, DNA damage accumulation and apoptotic incidence. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that Cd exposure has the adverse effects on the oocyte meiotic maturation as well as subsequent fertilization, and provide a potential effective strategy to improve the quality of Cd-exposed oocytes.

Polycystic ovary syndrome and mitochondrial dysfunction

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent hormonal disorder of premenopausal women worldwide and is characterized by reproductive, endocrine, and metabolic abnormalities. The clinical manifestations of PCOS include oligomenorrhea or amenorrhea, hyperandrogenism, ovarian polycystic changes, and infertility. Women with PCOS are at an increased risk of suffering from type 2 diabetes; me\tabolic syndrome; cardiovascular events, such as hypertension, dyslipidemia; gynecological diseases, including infertility, endometrial dysplasia, endometrial cancer, and ovarian malignant tumors; pregnancy complications, such as premature birth, low birthweight, and eclampsia; and emotional and mental disorders in the future. Although numerous studies have focused on PCOS, the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of this disease remain unclear. Mitochondria play a key role in energy production, and mitochondrial dysfunction at the cellular level can affect systemic metabolic balance. The recent wide acceptance of functional mitochondrial disorders as a correlated factor of numerous diseases has led to the presupposition that abnormal mitochondrial metabolic markers are associated with PCOS. Studies conducted in the past few years have confirmed that increased oxidative stress is associated with the progression and related complications of PCOS and have proven the relationship between other mitochondrial dysfunctions and PCOS. Thus, this review aims to summarize and discuss previous and recent findings concerning the relationship between mitochondrial dysfunction and PCOS.

Melatonin ameliorates H2O2-induced oxidative stress through modulation of Erk/Akt/NFkB pathway

Background

Improper control on reactive oxygen species (ROS) elimination process and formation of free radicals causes tissue dysfunction. Pineal hormone melatonin is considered a potent regulator of such oxidative damage in different vertebrates. Aim of the current communication is to evaluate the levels of oxidative stress and ROS induced damage, and amelioration of oxidative status through melatonin induced activation of signaling pathways. Hepatocytes were isolated from adult Labeo rohita and exposed to H₂O₂ at three different doses (12.5, 25 and 50 µM) to observe peroxide induced damage in fish hepatocytes. Melatonin (25, 50 and 100 μg/ml) was administered against the highest dose of H₂O₂. Enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants such as malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH) was measured spectrophotometrically. Expression level of heat shock proteins (HSP70 and HSP90), HSPs-associated signaling molecules (Akt, ERK, cytosolic and nuclear NFkB), and melatonin receptor was also measured by western blotting analysis.

Results

H₂O₂ induced oxidative stress significantly altered (P < 0.05) MDA and GSH level, SOD and CAT activity, and up regulated HSP70 and HSP90 expression in carp hepatocytes. Signaling proteins exhibited differential modulation as revealed from their expression patterns in H₂O₂-exposed fish hepatocytes, in comparison with control hepatocytes. Melatonin treatment of H₂O₂-stressed fish hepatocytes restored basal cellular oxidative status in a dose dependent manner. Melatonin was observed to be inducer of signaling process by modulation of signaling molecules and melatonin receptor.

Conclusions

The results suggest that exogenous melatonin at the concentration of 100 µg/ml is required to improve oxidative status of the H₂O₂-stressed fish hepatocytes. In H₂O₂ exposed hepatocytes, melatonin modulates expression of HSP70 and HSP90 that enable the hepatocytes to become stress tolerant and survive by altering the actions of ERK, Akt, cytosolic and nuclear NFkB in the signal transduction pathways. Study also confirms that melatonin could act through melatonin receptor coupled to ERK/Akt signaling pathways. This understanding of the mechanism by which melatonin regulates oxidative status in the stressed hepatocytes may initiate the development of novel strategies for hepatic disease therapy in future.

Evaluation of pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB) and its association with inflammatory cytokines in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Chronic low-grade inflammation has been suggested as a key contributor of the pathogenesis and development of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). To investigate the association between oxidative stress status and inflammatory cytokines in follicular fluid of 21 PCOS women compared to 21 women with normal ovarian function who underwent intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection. Concentration of IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and TNF-α was measured using sandwich ELISA. Oxidative stress was examined by measuring total oxidant status (TOS), malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and thiol groups. PCOS women had an elevated concentration of MDA and TOS compared to controls. Levels of TAC and thiol groups were lower in PCOS compared to controls. PCOS patients had a higher concentration of IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α compared to controls. Concentration of IL-10 was lower in PCOS compared to controls. Significant correlations were found between MDA and TOS concentration with TNF-α and between IL-6 and MDA, IL-8 and TAC, IL-10 and TOS levels and also between IL-10 and TAC levels. TAC and thiol groups were negatively correlated with TNF-α. Increased oxidative stress in PCOS is associated with inflammation which is closely linked. Inflammation can induce production of inflammatory cytokines in this syndrome and directly stimulates excess ovarian androgen production.

The oxidative/anti-oxidative effects of sevoflurane on reproductive system of females: An experimental study

Objective:

A permanent balance exists between the production and elimination of reactive oxygen species in all living organisms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of sevoflurane possibly causing an imbalance in the equation of reactive oxygen species on the female rat reproductive system.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 30 adult female Wistar-albino rats were placed into an anesthesia chamber to administer sevoflurane. Rats were randomly divided into six groups, each group consisting of five rats: the control group received 2 L/min O₂ 18 min/day for seven days; the first group received 1 minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of sevoflurane and 2 L/min O₂ 18 min/day for seven days; the second group received 1 MAC of sevoflurane and 2 L/min O₂ 18 min/day for seven days with no treatment for the next seven days; the third group received 1 MAC of sevoflurane and 2 L/min O₂ 18 min/day for 14 days; the fourth group received 1 MAC of sevoflurane and 2 L/min O₂ 18 min/day for 14 days with no treatment for the next seven days; and the fifth group received 1 MAC of sevoflurane and 2 L/min O₂ 18 min/day for 14 days with no treatment for the next 14 days. Bilateral ovaries were subsequently removed for biochemical analysis of tissue anti-oxidative enzyme levels.

Results:

Slight fluctuations were detected in mean nitric oxide, prostaglandin E2, prostaglandin F2-alpha, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, malondialdehyde, alginate dialdehyde, and xanthine oxidase levels between the groups; however, the differences were not significant (p>0.05).

Conclusion:

Sevoflurane has no effect on the activity of anti-oxidant systems in the rat ovary.

Melatonin actions on ovaprim (synthetic GnRH and domperidone)-induced oocyte maturation in carp

The major objective of the present study was to demonstrate the actions of exogenous melatonin on ovaprim (synthetic GnRH and domperidone)-induced final oocyte maturation focusing on the oxidative status of pre-ovulatory follicles in the carpCatla catla. Accordingly, gravid carp during the early spawning phase of the reproductive cycle were injected with melatonin and/or ovaprim at different time intervals or luzindole (a pharmacological blocker of melatonin receptors) before their administration. We studied their effects on the latency period, the rate of germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD; a visual marker of final oocyte maturation) in oocytes, and the levels of maturation-promoting factor (MPF), as well as oxidative stress, different antioxidants, melatonin and MT1 melatonin receptor protein in the extracts of pre-ovulatory follicles. Notably, melatonin treatment 2 h before the injection of ovaprim resulted in the shortest latency period as well as the highest rate of GVBD and MPF formation. Exogenous melatonin, irrespective of the injection schedule, caused a significant reduction in intra-follicular oxidative stress and an increase in the levels of both enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, melatonin and its receptor protein. Concentrations of ovarian melatonin in each fish exhibited a significant negative correlation with the level of oxidative stress, but a positive correlation with the rate of GVBD and the activity/level of different antioxidants. However, no significant effects of melatonin and/or ovaprim were detected in luzindole-pretreated carp. Collectively, the present study provides the first evidence that melatonin pretreatment in carp ameliorates ovaprim actions on the process of final oocyte maturation by the formation of MPF and alleviates oxidative stress in pre-ovulatory follicles by stimulating different antioxidants.

Oxidative stress in follicular fluid of young women with low response compared with fertile oocyte donors

The aim of this study was to determine the concentrations of oxidative stress markers, antioxidant enzymes and cytokines in the follicular fluid of young women with low response in ovarian stimulation cycles compared with high responders and fertile oocyte donors of the same age, to assess the impact of oxidative stress on ovarian reserve. The activity of follicular fluid antioxidant enzymes glutathione transferase, glutathione reductase and glutathione peroxidase was significantly lower in young women with reduced ovarian reserve compared with that in high responders and oocyte donors. Follicular fluid concentrations of oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde combined with 4-hydroxyalkenals and nitric oxide were higher in low responders than in high responders and oocyte donors. Significant differences between low responders and donors in concentrations of IL-2, IL-6, IL-8 and vascular endothelial growth factor were observed, with higher concentrations in low responders. However, IL-10 concentration was lower in low responders than in high responders and donors. No significant differences were found in follicular fluid concentrations of tumour necrosis factor alpha between the three groups. These results demonstrate that different concentrations of oxidative stress markers, oxidant enzymes and cytokines in low responders compared with high responders and oocyte donors may negatively impact ovarian response.

N-Acetyl-Cysteine and l-Carnitine Prevent Meiotic Oocyte Damage Induced by Follicular Fluid From Infertile Women With Mild Endometriosis

This study evaluated the potential protective effect of the antioxidants, l-carnitine (LC) and N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC), in preventing meiotic oocyte damage induced by follicular fluid (FF) from infertile women with mild endometriosis (ME). We performed an experimental study. The FF samples were obtained from 22 infertile women undergoing stimulated cycles for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (11 with ME and 11 without endometriosis). Immature bovine oocytes were submitted to in vitro maturation (IVM) divided into 9 groups: no-FF (No-FF); with FF from control (CFF) or ME (EFF) groups; and with LC (C + LC and E + LC), NAC (C + NAC and E + NAC), or both antioxidants (C + 2Ao and E + 2Ao). After IVM, oocytes were immunostained for visualization of microtubules and chromatin by confocal microscopy. The percentage of meiotically normal metaphase II (MII) oocytes was significantly lower in the EFF group (51.35%) compared to No-FF (86.36%) and CFF (83.52%) groups. The E + NAC (62.22%), E + LC (80.61%), and E + 2Ao (61.40%) groups showed higher percentage of normal MII than EFF group. The E + LC group showed higher percentage of normal MII than E + NAC and E + 2Ao groups and a similar percentage to No-FF and CFF groups. Therefore, FF from infertile women with ME causes meiotic abnormalities in bovine oocytes, and, for the first time, we demonstrated that the use of NAC and LC prevents these damages. Our findings elucidate part of the pathogenic mechanisms involved in infertility associated with ME and open perspectives for further studies investigating whether the use of LC could improve the natural fertility and/or the results of in vitro fertilization of women with ME.

Osthole, a natural coumarin improves cognitive impairments and BBB dysfunction after transient global brain ischemia in C57 BL/6J mice: involvement of Nrf2 pathway

Oxidative stress and blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption play important roles in cerebral ischemic pathogenesis and may represent targets for treatment. Earlier studies have shown that osthole, a main active constituent isolated from Cnidium monnieri (L.) Cusson, could be considered as an attractive therapeutic agent in the treatment of ischemic stroke. However, the mechanism underlying the protective effect remains vague. In this study we aimed to investigate the effect of osthole on transient cerebral ischemia as well as its mechanism(s) in C57 BL/6 J mice. Mice were subjected to transient global cerebral ischemia induced by bilateral common carotid artery occlusion for 25 min. Behavioral test was performed at 4 days after ischemia, followed by assessment of neuronal loss in hippocampal CA1 region. Osthole significantly improved the cognitive ability and enhanced the survival of pyramidal neurons in the CA1 region of mice after lesion. Further studies showed that osthole attenuated the permeation of BBB, which may contribute to antioxidative effect by increasing the superoxide dismutase activity and decreasing the malondialdehyde level in model mice. Further studies revealed that osthole obviously up-regulated the protein levels of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase 1 in HT22 cells. In conclusion, our findings indicated that osthole exerts neuroprotective effects against global cerebral ischemia injury by reducing oxidative stress injury and reserving the disruption of BBB, which may be attributed to elevating the protein levels of Nrf2 and HO-1.

Reactive oxygen species in follicular fluid may serve as biochemical markers to determine ovarian aging and follicular metabolic age

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of oxidative stress in the process of ovarian aging.

METHODS

Follicular fluid (FF) from two randomly selected sibling follicles was collected from women undergoing in-vitro fertilization and tested for hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) levels.

RESULTS

Group A consists of seven women with whom each of the two sibling separate follicle yielded an oocyte that was later discordantly developed to a low- and top-quality embryo. Group B consists of 13 patients in whom one of the sibling follicle yielded an oocyte while the other did not (empty follicle). High-quality embryos were derived from follicles with lower H(2)O(2) levels compared to follicles from which poor-quality embryos developed (1.004 units ± 0.260 versus 1.145 units ± 0.236, p < 0.02). H(2)O(2) levels were significantly higher (0.951 units ± 0.233 versus 0.623 units ± 0.309, p < 0.001) in sibling follicles containing oocyte compared to empty follicles.

CONCLUSION

During the process of ovarian ageing, there might be a gradual increase in H(2)O(2) level in the follicle. Finally, when the follicle ages and becomes empty of oocyte H(2)O(2) levels drops significantly. Therefore, H(2)O(2) levels in FF may serve as a possible marker to determine ovarian aging and follicular metabolic age.

Antimüllerian hormone regulates stem cell factor expression in human granulosa cells

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether there is a correlation between antimüllerian hormone (AMH) and stem cell factor (SCF) in serum, follicular fluid (FF), and granulosa cells (GCs), and to investigate a possible regulatory mechanism of AMH on SCF in human granulosa cells.

DESIGN

Prospective clinical and experimental study.

SETTING

Academic center.

PATIENT(S)

163 women undergoing IVF.

INTERVENTION(S)

Serum, FF, and GCs obtained in all women, primary cultures of human GCs.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

AMH and SCF were analyzed in serum, FF, and GCs, using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction, and immunoblotting.

RESULT(S)

There was a significant negative correlation between AMH and SCF protein level in FF, and in the mRNA expression of AMH and SCF in GCs. Conversely, there was no correlation between AMH and SCF levels in serum. In primary cultures of human GCs, SCF was down-regulated by treatment with recombinant human AMH and was increased by cyclic adenosine 3':5' monophosphate (cAMP) in a dose-dependent manner. A protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor (H89) significantly reversed the effects of recombinant human AMH and cAMP on SCF mRNA and protein expression.

CONCLUSION(S)

This is the first report on a modulatory role for AMH as an ovarian/follicular autocrine/paracrine factor controlling SCF expression via the cAMP/PKA pathway.