Mitochondrial distribution and activity in human mature oocytes: gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist versus antagonist for pituitary down-regulation

ObjectiveTo analyze the effects of GnRH agonists versus antagonists on mitochondrial distribution and activity in human mature oocytes.DesignRandomized research experimental study.SettingAcademic basic research laboratory and hospital-based fertility center.Patient(s)Two hundred twenty-five supernumerary mature oocytes from 44 patients.Intervention(s)Fluorescent staining and confocal laser scanning microscopy on oocytes after the use of either GnRH agonist (group A) or GnRH antagonist (group B).Main Outcome Measure(s)Oocyte mitochondrial distribution pattern and activity using MitoTracker Orange CMTM Ros.Result(s)More oocytes showing polarized mitochondrial distribution pattern were found in group A than in group B (35% vs. 14%). In group B, hCG rather than GnRH agonist, for ovulation induction, resulted in more oocytes showing heterogeneous (57% vs. 14%), in particular polarized (24% vs. 0) mitochondrial distribution. In groups A and B, fluorescence intensity did not vary according to mitochondrial distribution pattern. However, fluorescence intensity was higher in oocytes with polarized and large granules configurations in group B compared to group A.Conclusion(s)The GnRH agonist and antagonist may have different effects on oocyte mitochondrial distribution pattern and activity. The GnRH antagonist may induce mitochondrial hyperactivity, which may be detrimental to the oocyte.