Investigation of oxidant/antioxidant parameter status in cumulus cells of in vitro fertilization (IVF) patients

Despite great advances in the reproductive health sector, infertility continues to be one of the most important reproductive health problems. Tubal factor, endometriosis, cervical factor, pelvic adhesion, male factor and unexplained infertility are among the main causes of infertility. However, age, environmental factors, stress, lifestyle, body mass index (BMI), hormonal and pathophysiological factors are also among the causes of infertility. The deterioration of the balance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants in favor of ROS with increasing age is seen as a cause of low oocyte quality, and this situation negatively affects infertility treatment with in vitro fertilization (IVF). In line with this information, our study aimed to investigate whether oxidant/antioxidant parameters have a predictive value in terms of determining the number and quality of oocyte. Catalase (CAT), glutathione-s-transferase (GST), arylesterase (ARE) enzyme activities and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were analyzed in cumulus cells in IVF-treated poor responder, normo responder, and high-responder patient groups. Cumulus cell GST enzyme activity levels increased in a statistically significant way in the high responder group compared to the poor responder and normo responder groups. Cumulus cell MDA levels were significantly decreased in the high responder group compared to the poor responder group. Regarding the cumulus cell CAT and ARE enzyme activity, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups. Significant increase in GST enzyme activity and significant decrease in MDA levels in the high responder group suggest that oxidative stress has an effect on oocyte count and quality.