Oocyte mitochondrial function and reproduction

Abstract

Purpose of review: Mitochondria are cellular organelles that are required for energy production. Emerging evidence demonstrates their role in oocyte development and reproduction. In this review, we examine recent animal and clinical studies on the role of mitochondria in fertility. We also analyse the impact of assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs) on mitochondrial function and discuss the future clinical implications of mitochondrial nutrients and mitochondrial replacement.

Recent findings: Mitochondria affect all aspects of mammalian reproduction. They are essential for optimal oocyte maturation, fertilization and embryonic development. Mitochondrial dysfunction causes a decrease in oocyte quality and interferes with embryonic development. ART procedures affect mitochondrial function, while mitochondrial nutrients may increase mitochondrial performance in oocytes. New mitochondrial replacement procedures using mitochondria obtained from polar bodies or from the patient's own oogonial stem cells are promising and may address concerns related to the induction of high-levels of heteroplasmy, which could potentially result in negative long-term health effects.

Summary: Optimal energy production is required for oocyte and embryo development, and mitochondrial abnormalities have devastating reproductive consequences. Improvement of oocyte mitochondrial function via intake of compounds that boost mitochondrial activity may have clinical benefits, and mitochondrial replacement could potentially be used for the prevention of mitochondrial diseases.

Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts of interest

There are no conflicts of interest.

Figures

FIGURE 1

Schematic representations of mitochondrial behaviour and mitochondrial function in oocytes during meiosis I. Mitochondria accumulate around meiotic spindle during meiosis I and remain in the oocyte following cell division. (a) Chromosomes distribute evenly when mitochondria function is optimal (white circles). (b) In cases of mitochondrial dysfunction (grey circles), meiotic nondisjunction occurs. This mechanism is thought to be responsible for the observed increase in aneuploidy rate in aged oocytes.