Oxidant-antioxidant profile of follicular fluid: impact of the genesis of infertility, ovulation stimulation regimens, and an anaesthetic
Objective. Using original methods, to study the parameters of oxidant-antioxidant profile of follicular fluid depending on the genesis of infertility, ovulation stimulation regimens, and a drug used for anaesthesia. Patients and methods. The study included 41 patients. The following groups were singled out: external genital endometriosis, tubal-peritoneal infertility, late reproductive age; long protocol, short protocol; without anaesthesia, sevoflurane group, propofol group. The chemiluminescence method was used to determine the activity of pro-oxidant enzymes, antioxidant capacity, and albumin oxidation levels. Concentrations of metals were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Results. In more than 60% of cases, oxidative stress was found, mainly in the protein link. No significant differences among groups in the genesis of infertility have been found. Hormonal stimulation results in oxidative stress, the greatest effect belonging to the long protocol. Sevoflurane increases the antioxidant capacity of follicular fluid. Impairment of the oxidant-prooxidant balance affects the quality of an ambryo, but is not associated with the occurrence of pregnancy. In the examined specimens, Cd and Pb have not been found in significant amounts, neither has there been found any difference in the levels of Fe, Cu, Zn, Se. Conclusion. The oxidant-antioxidant balance in the follicle is influenced by many factors, including a stimulation protocol and anaesthetics used, which should be taken into account in management of oxidative stress.