Effects and Mechanisms of Imperatorin on Vitrified Mouse Oocytes

Imperatorin (IMP) is a naturally occurring furanocoumarin with beneficial biological activities such as anticancer, antioxidant, and neuromodulatory properties. Currently, the protective effects and mechanisms of IMP on oxidative stress experienced by mouse oocytes after vitrification-thawing remain unclear. To investigate the influence of IMP on mouse oocyte development after vitrification-thawing, we added different concentrations of IMP to the vitrification and thawing media. Results indicated that the addition of 40 μM IMP enhanced post-thaw fertilization capacity, reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and increased intracellular glutathione (GSH) levels. IMP also improved mitochondrial health by alleviating the decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and enhancing mitochondrial distribution. IMP reduced intracellular ROS levels by affecting the transcription of the antioxidant genes SOD2, NRF2, and HO-1 and enhancing SOD activity. It also elevated GSH levels via GPX1, improved mitochondrial function, and decreased early apoptosis through Bcl-2. In conclusion, IMP enhanced ovum health through the alleviation of oxidative stress. The present study provides useful information for further exploration of the molecular mechanisms of IMP in female reproductive cells and offers a novel approach for the improvement of vitrification technology.