Expression of Apoptosis-Related Genes in Cultured Ovarian Tissue of Mouse in Presence of Coenzyme Q.

OBJECTIVE

Oxidative stress affects the development of ovarian follicles during culture thus applying an antioxidant is necessary. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of coenzyme Q (CoQ) on the expression of apoptosis-related genes of mouse ovaries during culture.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The immature mouse ovaries were cultured in the presence of 50 μM CoQ for 7 days. Histological examinations were performed and the 17 beta-estradiol concentration was measured on the seventh day of culture. The relative expression of 3, , , and 2 genes were investigated by real-time RT-PCR.

RESULTS

The rates of normal follicles in the presence of CoQ was significantly increased compared to the control group. Also, in CoQ-trated group a significant increase in the level of 17 beta-estradiol was seen compared to the control group. The mRNA expression of anti-apoptotic gene 2 was significantly increased while the expression of pro-apoptotic genes (3, and ) significantly declined in CoQ treated group compared to those of control group.

CONCLUSION

The supplementation of the ovarian culture media with CoQ improved the follicular development through alteration in expression of apoptosis-related genes and stimulated the production of estradiol.