Oocyte and dietary supplements: a mini review

Rising rates of infertility have stimulated interest in dietary supplements to improve oocyte quality through mitochondrial function, antioxidant activity, and epigenetically regulated metabolic pathways. Mitochondria provides adenosine triphosphate for oocyte maturation, with Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) demonstrating efficacy in animal models by alleviating oxidative damage and enhancing blastocyst formation. In aged mice, CoQ10 restored mitochondrial activity and reduced chromosomal abnormalities, while preliminary human studies noted improved embryo quality in poor responders, though randomized controlled trials (RCTs) remain inconclusive. Antioxidants like melatonin counter reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced spindle defects and mitochondrial dysfunction, showing benefits in murine oocyte maturation and blastocyst development. Resveratrol enhanced bovine oocyte quality through metabolic modulation. Human trials on antioxidants show reduced granulosa cell stress but lack robust evidence. Epigenetically, folate supports DNA methylation critical for embryonic gene expression, with deficiencies linked to hyperhomocysteinemia and developmental defects in animal models. Human observational studies associate folate-rich diets with lower aneuploidy and better assisted reproductive technology outcomes, while omega-3 fatty acids aid chromatin remodeling via histone deacetylase regulation. Despite compelling preclinical data, human trials face inconsistencies due to variable designs and confounders. Standardized RCTs are urgently needed to translate mechanistic insights into clinical guidelines, addressing the disconnect between animal studies and human reproductive outcomes.