Power of Proteomics in Linking Oxidative Stress and Female Infertility

Abstract

Endometriosis, PCOS, and unexplained infertility are currently the most common diseases rendering large numbers of women infertile worldwide. Oxidative stress, due to its deleterious effects on proteins and nucleic acids, is postulated to be the one of the important mechanistic pathways in differential expression of proteins and in these diseases. The emerging field of proteomics has allowed identification of proteins involved in cell cycle, as antioxidants, extracellular matrix (ECM), cytoskeleton, and their linkage to oxidative stress in female infertility related diseases. The aim of this paper is to assess the association of oxidative stress and protein expression in the reproductive microenvironments such as endometrial fluid, peritoneal fluid, and follicular fluid, as well as reproductive tissues and serum. The review also highlights the literature that proposes the use of the fertility related proteins as potential biomarkers for noninvasive and early diagnosis of the aforementioned diseases rather than utilizing the more invasive methods used currently. The review will highlight the power of proteomic profiles identified in infertility related disease conditions and their linkage with underlying oxidative stress. The power of proteomics will be reviewed with regard to eliciting molecular mechanisms for early detection and management of these infertility related conditions.

Protein modification as oxidative stress marker in follicular fluid from women with polycystic ovary syndrome: the effect of inositol and metformin

“…It is believed that ROS over-production in the reproductive tract may significantly contribute to woman infertility mainly because of the ability of these molecules to exert a toxic effect decreasing oocyte quality [2,38,39]. The follicular fluid may be seen as a "biological window" which reflects all metabolic processes and hormonal microenvironment in which the oocyte matured [40].…”

Implications from early life stress on the development of mouse ovarian follicles: Focus on oxidative stress

“…However, many studies have established that OS have critical roles in the pathophysiology of female infertility . This concept is further enhanced by investigations that have shown OS induced apoptosis in granulosa cells resulting in the reduction of estradiol levels and atresia of follicles . Chaube et al ., showed that OS disrupts granulosa cells‐oocyte communication resulting in decreased quality of oocytes .…”

Selenium Supplementation and the Effects on Reproductive Outcomes, Biomarkers of Inflammation, and Oxidative Stress in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

“…For instance, any significant change in MDA levels was not observed after taking selenium supplements in rats [16]. Previous studies have shown that oxidative stress in female reproduction is associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome and endometriosis [57]. Needless to say, these pathologies negatively influence pregnancy rates and IVF outcomes.…”