Effects of metal components in PM_2.5 derived from pig farm exposure on ovarian function and oocyte quality

Particulate matter (PM_2.5), an environmental pollutant composed of various components, can affect multiple organs. In particular, PM_2.5 generated in pig farms contains substances produced in enclosed livestock environments, such as decomposed feed and manure, animal hair, and byproducts of animal activity. However, comprehensive studies investigating the effects of PM_2.5 concentration, composition, and metal content on female reproductive function remain limited. In this study, we evaluated the impact of metal components in pig farm-derived PM_2.5 on ovarian function and oocyte quality by exposing mice to intratracheal instillation. One week after exposure to metal components (calcium, iron, aluminum, zinc, and lead), ovarian development, apoptosis, and related molecular mechanisms were examined. We investigated their effects on oocyte maturation and developmental competence. The results showed that metal exposure induced ovarian inflammation and apoptosis via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Furthermore, impaired oocyte maturation, spindle abnormalities, abnormal mitochondrial distribution, elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and activation of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and TGF-β were observed. In conclusion, our findings indicate that the metal components of PM_2.5 from a pig farm can adversely affect ovarian function and oocyte maturation.