Effect of mitophagy in oocytes and granulosa cells on oocyte quality

Mitophagy is the process by which cells selectively remove supernumerary or damaged mitochondria through autophagy, and is crucial for mitochondria) homeostasis and cell survival. Mitochondria play vital roles in determining the developmental competence of oocytes. During the early stages of oogenesis, aberrant mitochondria can be removed by mitophagy. After oocyte formation, mitophagy is not actively initiated to clear damaged mitochondria despite the presence of mitophagy regulators in oocytes, which leads to the transmission of dysfunctional mitochondria from the oocyte to the embryo. However, granulosa cells around oocytes can improve mitochondria) function through mitophagy,thereby improving oocyte developmental capacity. Furthermore, this review discusses recent work on the substances and environmental conditions that affect mitophagy in oocytes and granulosa cells, thus providing new directions for improving oocyte quality during assisted reproductive technology treatment.

Automated summary

Mitophagy is crucial for maintaining mitochondria homeostasis and cell survival. While aberrant mitochondria can be removed through mitophagy during early stages of oogenesis, dysfunctional mitochondria can be transmitted from oocytes to embryos when mitophagy is not actively initiated. Granulosa cells can improve mitochondrial function through mitophagy, enhancing oocyte developmental capacity. Research on substances and environmental conditions influencing mitophagy in oocytes and granulosa cells may provide new strategies for improving oocyte quality in assisted reproductive technology treatment.