Isoprostanes and Isofurans in Infertility and Assisted Reproduction: What Do We Know So Far?

Oxidative stress is a fundamental mechanism that impacts reproductive function by altering gamete quality, fertilisation, and the initial development of embryos. Excessive reactive oxygen species lead to the oxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the cell membranes of sperm, oocytes, and adjacent somatic cells. F2-isoprostanes and isofurans are two of the most dependable indicators of oxidative lipid damage among the byproducts generated during free radical-mediated lipid oxidation. Both arise from the non-enzymatic peroxidation of arachidonic acid and provide a chemically stable depiction of in vivo oxidative processes. Reproductive studies indicate that elevated levels of F2-isoprostanes are associated with diminished sperm motility, compromised membrane stability, and an increased risk of DNA fragmentation in various forms of male infertility. Lipid peroxidation products have been detected in follicular fluid inside the female reproductive system, suggesting a relationship between oxidative imbalance, granulosa cell metabolism, and oocyte competency. Isofurans, which are more prevalent in the presence of elevated oxygen levels, may indicate oxidative stress in mitochondria and complications with cellular respiration. The current comprehension of lipid peroxidation indicators in infertility and assisted reproduction remains insufficient. This review aims to synthesise current information on isoprostanes and isofurans as reliable indicators of oxidative lipid damage in reproductive biology, highlighting their effects on gamete quality, mitochondrial dysfunction, and results in assisted reproduction. Our research seeks to clarify the biological importance of current experimental and clinical findings, highlighting their potential as clinically relevant biomarkers in reproductive medicine.