Expression of growth factors in buffalo ovarian tissue across different follicular developmental stages.

BACKGROUND

In assisted reproduction, poor ovarian response to stimulation negatively affects oocyte yield and is influenced by genetic factors.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to quantify the mRNA expression of key growth markers (BMP15, GDF9, OCT4, and FGFR2) in ovarian tissue according to the developmental stages of the follicle.

METHODS

Samples were collected from ovarian tissue. Gene expression levels were analyzed using RT-qPCR. In addition, ELISA was used to measure the concentrations of catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), along with reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) as oxidative stress markers.

RESULTS

OCT4 expression was similar in preantral and small follicles but significantly upregulated in medium and large follicles. GDF9 expression and SOD activity were highest in small follicles (P < 0.05). BMP15 levels were significantly elevated in small and medium follicles compared to preantral follicles but remained unchanged in large follicles (P < 0.05). FGFR2 expression increased progressively with follicle size (P < 0.05). GPx activity was directly proportional to follicle size, with the lowest levels in preantral follicles. Conversely, ROS, MDA, and CAT concentrations decreased as follicle size increased.

CONCLUSION

These findings provide insights into the molecular regulation of follicular development in buffalo, which could aid in improving reproductive efficiency in assisted reproduction programs.