Role of intrinsic and supplemented antioxidants in follicular fluid: a shield against oxidative stress in oocyte health and embryo development

Authors

  • Nidhi Gairola Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shri Guru Ram Rai University, Uttarakhand 248001, India
  • Himanko Gogoi Uttaranchal Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Uttarakhand 248007, India
  • Janhvi Dubey Uttaranchal Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Uttarakhand 248007, India
  • Jasvinder Singh Khatiyaan Uttaranchal Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Uttarakhand 248007, India
  • Harsh Chaudhary Uttaranchal Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Uttarakhand 248007, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.69857/joapr.v13i3.1036

Keywords:

Antioxidants, Coenzyme, Follicular fluid, Intrinsic, In Vitro Fertilization

Abstract

Background: In In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), a form of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART), the quality of oocytes and the successful development of embryos are crucial in determining the rate of fertility. The excessive presence of ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species) can cause oxidative stress, which negatively affects follicular fluid (FF) and oocyte maturation. Certain non-endogenous antioxidants, such as catalase, glutathione, and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), are already present in Follicular fluid, which counterbalances these ROS and protects oocytes. Method: In addition to examining the possibility of exogenous supplements of antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, and Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), this review investigates the function of these intrinsic antioxidants in maintaining oocyte health. Result: According to current in vivo and in vitro research findings done in mice, pigs, sheep, cows, and 18 patients in the age group(40±1), respectively, targeted antioxidant supplementation may enhance oocyte quality, embryo viability, and pregnancy outcomes. Conclusion: However, addressing individual heterogeneity in oxidative stress and optimizing dosage remains challenging. This review highlights how new antioxidant compounds and targeted interventions may enhance reproductive success by promoting cellular resilience in follicular fluid (FF). However, additional research into targeted antioxidant therapy in IVF is necessary.

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References

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Published

2025-06-30

How to Cite

Gairola, N., Himanko Gogoi, Janhvi Dubey, Jasvinder Singh Khatiyaan, & Harsh Chaudhary. (2025). Role of intrinsic and supplemented antioxidants in follicular fluid: a shield against oxidative stress in oocyte health and embryo development. Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Research, 13(3), 94-104. https://doi.org/10.69857/joapr.v13i3.1036

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