Follicular fluid lipid profile assessment using MALDI mass spectrometry

BACKGROUND: Fatty acids are important components of the oocyte microenvironment, exhibiting both pro-inflammatory and lipotoxic effects as well as anti-inflammatory effects depending on the presence and quantity of unsaturated bonds. Changes in the lipid profile of follicular fluid in obese patients may be a mechanism that leads to a decrease in oocyte competence and pregnancy rate in assisted reproductive technology programs. However, the available literature data is fragmentary and contradictory, which dictates the need for further research. AIM: The aim of this study was to investigate the lipid profile of follicular fluid in patients undergoing assisted reproductive technology programs with ovarian stimulation depending on the body mass index using MALDI (matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization) mass spectrometry. METHODS: This study involved patients undergoing infertility treatment using assisted reproductive technology in a short protocol using gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonists. The levels of essential saturated and unsaturated fatty acids were analyzed in the follicular fluid of the first aspirated follicle using MALDI mass spectrometry. RESULTS: Two study groups were formed out of 138 patients: patients with normal body mass index (n = 38) and patients with overweight and obesity (n = 76). The latter were characterized by higher levels of myristic and stearic acids and lower levels of oleic acid in the follicular fluid. The level of myristic acid in the follicular fluid positively correlated with the body mass index, while the level of oleic acid negatively correlated with this parameter. CONCLUSION: The data obtained indicate that overweight and obesity are associated with increased levels of saturated myristic and stearic acids in the follicular fluid, which negatively impact folliculogenesis, as well as a decrease in the level of monounsaturated oleic acid in the follicular fluid, which is able to compensate for the lipotoxic effects of saturated fatty acids.