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Updated: Feb 13, 2026
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A Neural Network-Based Identification of Developmentally Competent or Incompetent Mouse Fully-Grown Oocytes
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Endometriosis and Oocyte Quality: Morphological Alterations, Developmental Competence, and Modifiable Strategies for
Martina Contestabile1, Ilaria Marzi2, Calogero Mangione1
1Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
Cells
|February 12, 2026
Summary
Endometriosis impacts female fertility by affecting oocyte quality through inflammation and oxidative stress. Understanding these molecular changes is key to preserving reproductive potential in affected women.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Endocrinology
- Cellular Biology
Background:
- Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent inflammatory condition affecting female reproductive potential.
- It causes pelvic distortion, impaired folliculogenesis, and intrinsic oocyte alterations.
- These include changes in morphology, mitochondrial function, and developmental competence, contributing to infertility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the molecular mechanisms by which endometriosis impairs oocyte quality and female fertility.
- To highlight the role of the pro-inflammatory, oxidative, and fibrotic microenvironment in oocyte dysfunction.
- To emphasize the need for integrative models connecting molecular alterations to reproductive outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on endometriosis and its effects on oocytes.
- Analysis of molecular pathways including somatic mutations, epigenetic remodeling, immune dysregulation, and steroid signaling.
- Examination of the impact of cytokines, reactive oxygen species, and granulosa cell function.
Main Results:
- Endometriosis creates a detrimental follicular microenvironment impairing oocyte meiotic progression, cytoplasmic maturation, and mitochondrial integrity.
- Epigenetic and post-transcriptional disturbances exacerbate hormonal imbalances and affect ovarian-endometrial communication.
- Morphological abnormalities in oocytes are observed, but clinical outcomes are heterogeneous.
Conclusions:
- Endometriosis accelerates oocyte aging and diminishes reproductive longevity through molecular and cellular damage.
- Further understanding is crucial for identifying biomarkers of oocyte competence.
- Developing strategies like nutritional optimization and reducing environmental risks can help safeguard fertility.
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