Human antral fluid IGF-I and oocyte maturity: effect of stimulation therapy

Studies in animals have highlighted a possible role for growth factors, particularly IGF-I on cellular replication and cytodifferentiation in the ovary. At this time, few studies have been performed about IGF-I in the human ovary. From 38 women undergoing in Vitro Fertilization 293 antral antral fluids were collected and assessed for steroids (estradiol and progesterone), FSH and IGF-I. Two induction treatments were compared: clomiphene citrate hMG (group A,N = 15), triptoreline/hMG (group B,N = 23). We also studied relationships between quantitative parameters and oocyte collection or oocyte corona cumulus complex maturity, In group B, the highest antral estradiol levels were found in follicles yielding an oocyte (p less than 0.05). Concerning antral progesterone, higher levels were observed in follicles collected from group A than follicles collected from group B (p less than 0.05): for this parameter, the highest levels were observed when an oocyte was harvested, whatever the treatment (p less than 0.05). Highest antral FSH levels were observed in group B (p less than 0.05). IGF-I levels were higher in follicles collected from group B than in follicles collected from group A (p less than 0.05) and antral IGF-I levels differed between mature and immature oocyte corona cumulus complex in group B (p less than 0.05). These results, which are in keeping with studies about biological action of IGF-I in animal or human follicles or granulosa cells, led us to hypothesize a role for IGF-I in human follicular recruitment and maturation, a role that possible is enhanced during GnRH analogue and gonadotropin therapy.