Antimony exposure affects oocyte quality and early embryo development via excessive mitochondrial oxidation and...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Reproductive Biology
• Toxicology

Background:

• Antimony (Sb) is an environmental metalloid linked to human health issues.
• Its impact on female reproductive health requires detailed investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if antimony (Sb) exposure is detrimental to female reproduction.
• To elucidate the mechanisms underlying Sb's effects on oocytes and fertilization.

Main Methods:

• ICR mice were exposed to varying doses of potassium antimony tartrate trihydrate.
• Oocytes were collected and analyzed for maturation, cytoskeleton integrity, cortical granule distribution, and mitochondrial function.
• Fertilization assays and early embryo development were assessed.

Main Results:

• Sb exposure significantly reduced the proportion of MII-stage oocytes and impaired early embryo development.
• Sb damaged oocyte microtubule and actin cytoskeletons, affecting maturation.
• Abnormal cortical granule distribution and reduced Juno expression impaired sperm-oocyte binding, causing fertilization failure.
• Sb exposure disrupted mitochondrial distribution and membrane potential, leading to energy deficits, oxidative stress, and apoptosis.

Conclusions:

• Antimony (Sb) exposure negatively impacts oocyte quality and female fertilization capacity.
• Mechanisms include cytoskeletal damage, impaired mitochondrial function, and induced oxidative stress.
• Sb poses a significant risk to female reproductive health.