The Role of One-Carbon Metabolism and Methyl Donors in Medically Assisted Reproduction: A Narrative Review of the Literature.
Int J Mol Sci
; 25(9)2024 May 02.
Article
en En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-38732193
ABSTRACT
One-carbon (1-C) metabolic deficiency impairs homeostasis, driving disease development, including infertility. It is of importance to summarize the current evidence regarding the clinical utility of 1-C metabolism-related biomolecules and methyl donors, namely, folate, betaine, choline, vitamin B12, homocysteine (Hcy), and zinc, as potential biomarkers, dietary supplements, and culture media supplements in the context of medically assisted reproduction (MAR). A narrative review of the literature was conducted in the PubMed/Medline database. Diet, ageing, and the endocrine milieu of individuals affect both 1-C metabolism and fertility status. In vitro fertilization (IVF) techniques, and culture conditions in particular, have a direct impact on 1-C metabolic activity in gametes and embryos. Critical analysis indicated that zinc supplementation in cryopreservation media may be a promising approach to reducing oxidative damage, while female serum homocysteine levels may be employed as a possible biomarker for predicting IVF outcomes. Nonetheless, the level of evidence is low, and future studies are needed to verify these data. One-carbon metabolism-related processes, including redox defense and epigenetic regulation, may be compromised in IVF-derived embryos. The study of 1-C metabolism may lead the way towards improving MAR efficiency and safety and ensuring the lifelong health of MAR infants.
Palabras clave
Texto completo:
1
Colección:
01-internacional
Banco de datos:
MEDLINE
Asunto principal:
Carbono
/
Técnicas Reproductivas Asistidas
Límite:
Female
/
Humans
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Int J Mol Sci
Año:
2024
Tipo del documento:
Article
País de afiliación:
Grecia