Effect of Elamipretide on the Vitrification of Mouse Ovarian Tissue by Freezing
Xingfeng Yao1, Qingfang Lu1, Yuyin Wu2
1Medical College, Guangxi University, Nanning, China.
Abstract:
The importance of ovarian cortical cryopreservation in fertility preservation is receiving increasing attention from reproductive specialists, and mitochondrial dysfunction is an important cause of reduced ovarian tissue cryopreservation. Elamipretide (SS-31) is a novel mitochondria-targeted antioxidant. However, whether it has a protective effect on mouse ovarian tissue cryopreservation remains to be studied. In this study, we examined follicular morphology and viability, mitochondrial function and oxidative stress levels, apoptosis, and culture in vitro after vitrification cryoresuscitation operation by treating ovarian tissues with SS-31 in cryoprotectant resuscitation solution. At the end of the experiment, the addition of 100 μmol/L SS-31 significantly improved follicle quality and oocyte maturation rate in vitro (p < 0.05) and significantly reduced apoptosis (p < 0.05) and oxidative stress levels (superoxide dismutase, catalase, malondialdehyde, p < 0.05). Meanwhile, mitochondrial respiratory chain complex enzyme activity, mtDNA copy number (p < 0.05), and adenosine triphosphate (p < 0.05) content were significantly increased in the 100 μmol/L SS-31-treated group. In addition, the mRNA expression levels of mitochondrial energy metabolism- and biosynthesis-related genes (STRT1, PGC-1a, PPAR-a, TFAM, p < 0.05) were markedly upregulated (p < 0.05) in the 100 μmol/L SS-31 group. In conclusion, SS-31 improved the cryopreservation of ovarian tissues, and 100 μmol/L SS-31 was found to be the most effective.
Insights
Elamipretide (SS-31) enhances ovarian tissue cryopreservation by improving follicle quality and reducing oxidative stress. The 100 μmol/L concentration proved most effective in protecting ovarian tissue during cryopreservation.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Cryobiology
- Mitochondrial medicine
Background:
- Ovarian cortical cryopreservation is crucial for fertility preservation.
- Mitochondrial dysfunction compromises ovarian tissue cryopreservation success.
- Elamipretide (SS-31) is a novel mitochondria-targeted antioxidant.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the protective effects of Elamipretide (SS-31) on mouse ovarian tissue cryopreservation.
- To evaluate SS-31's impact on follicular morphology, viability, mitochondrial function, and oxidative stress post-cryopreservation.
Main Methods:
- Mouse ovarian tissues were treated with SS-31 in cryoprotectant resuscitation solution after vitrification.
- Follicular morphology, viability, mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and oocyte maturation were assessed.
- Gene expression and mitochondrial parameters were analyzed post-cryopreservation.
Main Results:
- 100 μmol/L SS-31 significantly improved follicle quality and in vitro oocyte maturation.
- SS-31 treatment markedly reduced apoptosis and oxidative stress markers (superoxide dismutase, catalase, malondialdehyde).
- Mitochondrial function, including respiratory chain enzyme activity, ATP content, and mtDNA copy number, was significantly enhanced by SS-31.
Conclusions:
- Elamipretide (SS-31) effectively improves ovarian tissue cryopreservation outcomes.
- The optimal concentration for cryoprotection was determined to be 100 μmol/L SS-31.
- SS-31 demonstrates significant potential for enhancing fertility preservation strategies involving ovarian tissue cryopreservation.
