Oxidative Stress in Assisted Reproductive Techniques, with a Focus on an Underestimated Risk Factor

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Cellular Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Oxidative stress, caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS), significantly impairs gamete and embryo quality in assisted reproductive techniques (ART).
• In vitro conditions during ART increase exposure to ROS, exacerbating cellular damage.
• Photo-oxidation from light exposure is an underestimated source of oxidative stress in ART.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the development of oxidative stress in reproductive systems and pre-implantation embryos.
• To explore ROS origins and damage mechanisms during ART.
• To discuss strategies for preventing oxidative stress in ART, focusing on antioxidants and light protection.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on oxidative stress in reproductive biology and ART.
• Analysis of ROS generation and damage pathways in gametes and embryos.
• Evaluation of antioxidant and photoprotective strategies in vitro and in vivo.

Main Results:

• Oxidative stress detrimentally affects gamete and embryo quality, reducing ART success rates.
• ART procedures inherently increase ROS levels, leading to cellular damage.
• Antioxidants and light protection show potential in mitigating oxidative stress and improving ART outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Oxidative stress is a critical factor affecting ART success.
• Understanding ROS origins and mechanisms is key to developing effective countermeasures.
• Implementing antioxidant therapies and light protection protocols can enhance gamete and embryo development in ART.