Importance of Oxidative Stress Mechanism in Reproductive Functions and Infertility

Abstract

Oxidative stress (OS) is a term used to describe the homeostatic oxidation-favoring imbalance between the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) or other compounds causing oxidative stress and the countering activities/levels of enzymatic or non-enzymatic antioxidants. The role of OS in reproduction cannot be underestimated in neither health nor disease. This chapter focuses on the roles of OS in spermatogenesis, steroidogenesis and male sexual activity, and also its effects in female folliculogenesis, steroidogenesis, ovulation, luteogenesis, and pregnancy. Furthermore, OS’s impact on the efficacy of Artificial Reproductive Techniques (ARTs) was assessed, and the impact of antioxidants on reproductive health and sterility were discussed in both males and females. Through available evidence, it appears that oxidative state impairs reproductive processes and causes general disruptions through inflammation, DNA damage, lipid peroxidation, protein alterations and mitochondrial dysfunction. It will be of importance to identify oxidative stress biomarkers specific for each reproductive process, and it seems that more research should be focused on epigenetic characteristics together with oxidative stress in reproductive health and infertility.

Adjusting ram semen preservation: Exploring the impact of oxygen exposure during liquid storage

“…While the aerobic pathway generates energy, it concurrently produces reactive oxygen species (ROS) as by‐products (Oborna et al., 2010). These ROS exhibit a dual role in moderate‐level participation in cell signalling, but excessive ROS generation precipitates oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, DNA damage, and consequent deterioration of sperm functional parameters (Onaolapo et al., 2022). Our investigation casts a spotlight on the pronounced advantages of anaerobic storage conditions.…”

“…Anaerobic storage, involving the reduction of oxygen exposure, demonstrates promise in mitigating oxidative stress‐induced damage and preserving sperm quality (Price et al., 2008). By minimizing the presence of oxygen, anaerobic conditions limit the production of ROS, consequently reducing the occurrence of lipid peroxidation and its detrimental effects on spermatozoa (Onaolapo et al., 2022). Moreover, the adoption of anaerobic storage can represent an intriguing alternative to the use of exogenous antioxidants.…”

“…By minimizing the presence of oxygen, anaerobic conditions limit the production of ROS, consequently reducing the occurrence of lipid peroxidation and its detrimental effects on spermatozoa (Onaolapo et al, 2022). Moreover, the adoption of anaerobic storage can represent an intriguing alternative to the use of exogenous antioxidants.…”