Reactive oxygen species and ovarian diseases: Antioxidant strategies

Abstract

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are mainly produced in mitochondria and are involved in various physiological activities of the ovary through signaling and are critical for regulating the ovarian cycle. Notably, the imbalance between ROS generation and the antioxidant defense system contributes to the development of ovarian diseases. These contradictory effects have critical implications for potential antioxidant strategies that aim to scavenge excessive ROS. However, much remains to be learned about how ROS causes various ovarian diseases to the application of antioxidant therapy for ovarian diseases. Here, we review the mechanisms of ROS generation and maintenance of homeostasis in the ovary and its associated physiological effects. Additionally, we have highlighted the pathological mechanisms of ROS in ovarian diseases and potential antioxidant strategies for treatment.

Highlights

• •ROS play an indispensable role in various physiological activities of the ovary by mediating signaling.
• •The imbalance between ROS generation and the antioxidant defense system contributes to ovarian diseases.
• •Antioxidant drugs, hormones, and mesenchymal stem cells can alleviate ROS-mediated ovarian diseases.

1. Introduction

From a historical perspective, 1908 was the first milestone year in reactive oxygen species (ROS) biology, revealing the increased oxygen consumption of sea urchin eggs after fertilization [1]. The term oxidative stress (OS) was formally introduced in 1985 [2]. Numerous studies have broadened our understanding of ROS biology in the past century.

ROS are mainly produced by biochemical reactions during the cellular respiration process [3] and are a double-edged sword for ovarian health. Under normal conditions, the production of ROS and the antioxidant system are in balance and the body maintains physiologically required levels of ROS. ROS play a vital role in ovarian physiological activity as a secondary messenger for cellular signaling [4] and are involved in the regulation of the ovarian cycle, including in meiosis [5], ovulation [6], corpus luteum maintenance [7], and regression [8]. However, excessive ROS production might overwhelm the antioxidant defense system and induce OS [9], leading to the development of ovarian diseases including age-related ovarian dysfunction, ovarian cancer, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and ovarian endometriosis.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in ROS and ovarian diseases and the application of antioxidant strategies. The combined efforts of biologists and chemists have uncovered the mechanisms by which ROS participate in diseases and the redox potential of chemical species, helping us to envisage viable antioxidant therapy. Currently, strategies with unique ROS regulatory properties, including antioxidant drugs, hormones, and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), have been extensively studied and are potential therapeutic options. However, we lack a comprehensive review of the mechanisms by which ROS levels influence ovarian diseases and the potential application of antioxidant therapy. Therefore, we comprehensively reviewed the role of ROS pathogenesis in various ovarian diseases and explored frontier antioxidant therapy for treating such diseases. The review begins with a description of ROS generation and the antioxidant defense system in the ovary, followed by a brief overview of the physiological role of ROS in the ovary and a comprehensive review of the available evidence for ROS involvement in ovarian diseases. Finally, the latest frontiers in treating ovarian diseases through antioxidant strategies are presented.

2. ROS generation and antioxidant defense system in the ovary

2.1. ROS generation

ROS are the chemical species formed when oxygen is incompletely reduced and include mainly superoxide anion (O₂^•−), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), singlet oxygen (¹O₂), and hydroxyl radical (^•OH) [10]. The ROS in the ovary are produced through multiple pathways. Mitochondria are the most abundant organelles in oocytes [11], and the respiratory electron transfer systems for aerobic metabolism are the primary sources of ROS production [12] (Fig. 1). Electrons leaking from the mitochondrial respiratory chain reduce O₂ molecules to O₂^•− (primary ROS), which are further converted to molecules such as H₂O₂, ^•OH, and hypochlorite (secondary ROS) through various catalytic reactions [10]. In this process, chain complexes I and III produce mainly primary ROS (O₂^•−). The O₂^•− is then converted to H₂O₂ by mitochondrial Mn superoxide dismutase (SOD2) in the mitochondrial matrix or Cu–Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1) in the intermembrane space [13]. In contrast, superoxide dismutase 3 (SOD3) catalyzes the production of H₂O₂ from O₂^•− outside the cell [14]. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a site of protein synthesis and a source of ROS. The accumulation of misfolded proteins leads to ER stress, which activates the unfolded protein response (UPR) to restore protein homeostasis [15]. During the UPR, the ROS cascade reaction is triggered by the participation of protein disulfide isomerase, ER oxidoreductin 1, and the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase (NOX) complex (especially NOX4) [16]. ER stress also leads to a massive release of Ca²⁺ into the mitochondria, disrupting normal mitochondrial ROS and leading to an increase in O₂^•− [17]. Xanthine oxidase is also involved in the production of ROS; it reduces O₂ to O₂^•−, which is not only converted to H₂O₂ by cytosolic SOD1, but also reacts with nitric oxide to form peroxynitrite [[18], [19], [20]].

Fig. 1.

Schematic illustration of ROS generation, its natural scavenging mechanisms, and physiological role in the ovary. ROS produced by the mitochondrial electron transport chain (Mito-ETC), the endoplasmic reticulum system, XO, and the NOX complex are eliminated by various antioxidant enzymes, thereby maintaining redox homeostasis in the ovary. Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) can be converted to hydroxyl radicals (^•OH) in the presence of transition metals, such as Fe²⁺. Nitric oxide (NO^•) can react with superoxide (O₂^•−) to form peroxynitrite (ONOO⁻), a non-radical species that can modify the structure and function of proteins.

ROS, reactive oxygen species; Mito-ETC, mitochondrial electron transport chain; SOD, superoxide dismutase; CAT, catalase; GR, glutathione reductase; GPx, glutathione peroxidase; NOX, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase; NADPH, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate; GSH, glutathione; GSSG, oxidized glutathione; XO, xanthine oxidase; PDI, protein disulfide isomerase; ERO1, endoplasmic reticulum oxidoreductin 1; ER, endoplasmic reticulum.

Ovarian aging [21], recurrent ovulation [22], and obesity [23] are among the physiological causes of ROS accumulation in the ovary, whereas environmental factors, including chemotherapeutic agents [24], smoking [25], drinking [26], and a high-sugar diet [8], can also contribute to the accumulation of ROS.

2.2. The antioxidant defense system

Excessive ROS generation can induce OS and lead to the development of ovarian diseases. The antioxidant defense system in the ovary maintains ovarian homeostasis through the timely removal of excessive ROS. The antioxidant defense system consists of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants.

In vivo enzymatic antioxidants, such as SOD, catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione reductase (GR), play critical roles in ROS homeostasis in the body [27]. The three SOD enzymes, SOD1, SOD2, and SOD3, are activated in the presence of a catalytic metal (Cu or Mn) and catalyze the conversion of O₂^•− to H₂O₂ [14]. GPx and GR are members of the glutathione (GSH) family of enzymes [28]. GPx utilizes GSH as a substrate providing H to degrade H₂O₂ to produce H₂O, whereas GSH is converted to oxidized glutathione (GSSG). GSSG is subsequently reconverted to GSH using protons provided by NADPH, catalyzed by GR [4,29].

Non-enzymatic antioxidants in vivo mainly include vitamin C (VC), vitamin E (VE), β-carotene, carotenoids, selenium, zinc, taurine, and GSH [4], which play a vital role in ROS homeostasis in vivo.

3. Physiological role of ROS in the ovary

ROS regulates various physiological functions of the ovary through signaling, from oocyte growth to fertilization, including meiosis, ovulation, corpus luteum maintenance, and regression (Fig. 1). Among these regulating ROS, ^•OH and ¹O₂ have relatively short diffusion distances and can only exist in separated spaces. In addition, the instability of O₂^•− and its inability to diffuse across membranes limit its role as a signaling molecule. In contrast, H₂O₂ molecules, owing to their weak reactivity, high specificity, high diffusivity, and good membrane permeability, are crucial messengers in signaling [10].

The interactions between ROS and antioxidants in the ovary are complex. During meiosis, ROS and antioxidants play a crucial role in precisely regulating the arrest and resumption of oocyte meiosis [5]. Each month, only one dominant oocyte completes meiosis I, which is accompanied by an increase in ROS levels and inhibited antioxidant production [30,31]. Elevated ROS such as H₂O₂ might induce the resumption of meiosis by activating the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase A or Ca²⁺-mediated pathway [31]. In contrast, meiosis II requires protection by enzymatic antioxidants such as CAT and SOD [30].

Ovulation is one of the most crucial functions of the ovary, and this process is similar to inflammation. Increased secretion of the luteinizing hormone before ovulation leads to increased inflammatory precursors in the ovary, which results in excessive ROS production [8]. The increased ROS are involved in cumulus expansion, progesterone production, the expression of preovulatory genes, and the activation of signals contributing to ovulation [6]. Conversely, the use of antioxidant enzymes could significantly reduce ovulation efficiency and prolong ovulation time [32], which further demonstrates the role of ROS in ovulation. In the ovary, the corpus luteum which forms after ovulation can produce progesterone. If fertilization occurs after ovulation, progesterone maintains the pregnancy by improving the uteroplacental circulation, suppressing the immune response, and inhibiting uterine contractions [33]. Conversely, an absence of fertilization after ovulation requires corpus luteum regression and a decline in progesterone to create the conditions for follicular development in the next physiological cycle [34]. ROS and scavenger SOD are vital in regulating the corpus luteum function. Increased expression of the antioxidant enzyme SOD enhances the ability to scavenge ROS, thereby prolonging the function of the corpus luteum and progesterone secretion [7,35]. Conversely, under reduced SOD activity, ROS induce the corpus luteum regression by apoptosis of luteinized granulosa cells (GCs) through OS [8]. ROS and SOD are involved in ovarian cycle control through these steps, demonstrating their crucial roles in ovarian physiology.

4. Pathological role of ROS in ovarian diseases

ROS are essential for ovarian physiological function; however, excessive ROS levels can induce the development of ovarian diseases (Fig. 2). Increased ROS production owing to factors such as aging and drinking, beyond the antioxidant capacity can induce OS and lead to the oxidative damage of lipids, proteins, and DNA [[36], [37], [38]]. Excessive ROS production can directly affect the target of signaling pathways and also induce abnormal results by interacting with intermediate reaction steps as second messengers [39]. This oxidative damage and the abnormal signaling pathways finally manifest in age-related ovarian dysfunction, ovarian cancer, PCOS, and ovarian endometriosis.

Fig. 2.

The imbalance between ROS generation and the antioxidant defense system contributes to ovarian diseases, including age-related ovarian dysfunction, ovarian cancer, PCOS, and ovarian endometriosis.

ROS, reactive oxygen species; GCs, granulosa cells; PCOS, polycystic ovary syndrome.

4.1. ROS and age-related ovarian dysfunction

The delayed childbearing age of modern women can lead to the development of age-related ovarian dysfunction and the simultaneous failure of pregnancy aspirations. OS is a critical factor in the decline of ovarian function with age, driving the ovarian aging process [40]. Ovarian aging is manifested by a progressive decrease in the quantity and quality of oocytes [[41], [42], [43]]. The occurrence of intracellular OS-induced damage is attributed to the downregulation of ovarian enzymatic antioxidant defenses and increased ROS accumulation. Antioxidant enzymes in follicular fluid, GCs, and cumulus cells play a key role in protecting oocytes from OS [40,44]. However, compared to younger women, the older women show reduced activity of enzymatic antioxidants such as CAT and glutathione transferase in follicular fluid [45], decreased mRNA and protein levels of antioxidants in GCs, and decreased SOD activity and SOD1 levels in the cumulus cells [40]. These overall decreases in age-related ROS scavenging capacity contribute to OS development. In addition, aging, smoking, high-sugar diet, stress, superovulation, chemotherapy, pollution, and inflammation contribute to the overproduction of ROS, resulting in an imbalance between ROS and the antioxidant system [8,46].

The increased ROS promote ovarian aging through various signaling pathways. Ovarian GCs play a crucial role in the maturation of oocytes and maintenance of the ovarian cycle through the secretion of steroid hormones, estradiol and progesterone [47]. ROS can reduce isocitrate dehydrogenase-1 expression through activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathway to inhibit GCs proliferation and accelerate their aging [48]. Furthermore, H₂O₂ can cause GCs oxidative damage and apoptosis via the hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α)-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling pathway [49]. The formation of these oxidative damage signaling pathways promotes ovarian aging, while the absence or impairment of protective pathways also accelerates ovarian aging. The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and sirtuins (SIRT) signaling pathways are involved in the synthesis of antioxidant enzymes and the regulation of OS; their absence or impairment can lead to ovarian OS [8]. OS leads to oxidative damage to lipids, proteins, and DNA, as well as chromosomal abnormalities and telomere shortening, ultimately leading to a decrease in the quantity and quality of oocytes [21,50]. There are currently no clinical treatments for age-related ovarian dysfunction and the application of antioxidant therapy may be an effective strategy.

4.2. ROS and ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is a common gynecological tumor with the highest mortality rate among gynecological malignancies [51]. ROS are active contributors to the development, progression, and metastasis of ovarian cancer [52]. Excess ROS in the body induce DNA mutations and pro-oncogenic signaling pathways through complex biochemical reactions promoting tumor formation [53]. Tumor cells produce higher levels of ROS than normal cells mainly through mitochondria and NOX [54]. These increased ROS act as signaling molecules, thereby contributing to cancer progression and metastasis through several mechanisms.

ROS activate the extracellular signal-related kinase 1 and 2 signaling pathways in ovarian cancer cells to promote cell proliferation [55]. Angiogenesis, which transports nutrients and removes metabolic waste, is essential for the survival and development of tumor cells and plays a vital role in tumor metastasis [56]. H₂O₂ production in ovarian cancer cells promotes tumor angiogenesis by activating the protein kinase B (AKT) and p70S6K1 to regulate the expression of HIF-1α and VEGF [57,58]. Additionally, ROS are strongly associated with the occurrence of chemoresistance in ovarian cancer. Under normal conditions, Nrf2 binds to the Kelch Like ECH Associated Protein 1 (KEAP1)/Cullin 3/RING box protein 1 E3-ubiquitin ligase complex that targets Nrf2 for proteasomal degradation. However, under OS conditions, ROS binds to KEAP1, inducing its conformational change that leads to Nrf2 nuclear translocation and increased expression of antioxidant enzymes; this is one of the most critical mechanisms for developing chemoresistance, especially for platinum drugs [24,59]. Notably, ROS production also induces apoptotic signaling in cancer cells when the cytotoxicity threshold is exceeded [38]. The above study illustrated that ROS are also a double-edged sword for ovarian tumor cells, as low levels of ROS can promote tumor cell proliferation and development, whereas excessive ROS can induce apoptosis. This suggests that eliminating or enhancing ROS production may be a potentially effective therapeutic approach for ovarian cancer.

4.3. ROS and PCOS

PCOS is one of the most common complex endocrine disorders and a major cause of anovulatory infertility [60]. PCOS is often associated with insulin resistance (IR), hyperandrogenemia, and obesity, and its pathogenesis remains poorly elucidated, but it is known that ROS play an essential role [[61], [62], [63]]. Patients with PCOS exhibit more robust OS than that in healthy people [64,65], which can be attributed to several reasons. IR is closely associated with hyperandrogenemia, obesity, and ovulatory dysfunction and is a central factor in PCOS pathogenesis [66]. Hyperglycemia and IR are critical factors for increased OS in PCOS patients [67]. Hyperglycemia in IR patients leads to increased ROS production via the p47(phox) component of the NADPH oxidase [68,69]. In addition, hyperglycemia promotes the release of tumor necrosis factor-α, a known mediator of IR, from mononuclear cells and increases the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) [70,71]. NF-κB further contributes to OS by activating NADPH oxidase, promoting ROS production and sustaining inflammatory response [63]. Hyperandrogenemia sensitizes leukocytes to hyperglycemia and contributes to OS [72]. NADPH oxidase also plays a vital role in ROS production in obese patients. In adipocytes, elevated fatty acid levels increase OS through NADPH oxidase activation [73]. Conversely, ROS production can be reduced by inhibiting NADPH oxidase, which can improve symptoms of diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and hepatic steatosis [73].

The increased ROS through these mechanisms can promote the development of PCOS. OS reduces the sensitivity of skeletal muscle to insulin, resulting in the development of IR [67]. Additionally, OS impairs glucose uptake in muscle and adipose tissue and induces pancreatic β-cell dysfunction [68,74]. Elevated OS exacerbates PCOS progression by increasing the size of mature adipocyte, inducing obesity-promoting preadipocyte proliferation and adipocyte differentiation [74]. These associations suggest that ROS play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of PCOS, thereby providing a novel perspective into the treatment of PCOS patients: the inhibition of ROS production through antioxidant therapy to alleviate PCOS symptoms.

4.4. ROS and ovarian endometriosis

Ovarian endometriosis is the most common lesion of endometriosis, which causes not only severe menstrual pain but also infertility [75]. The monthly conception rate in healthy women is 15–20% compared with 2–10% in women with endometriosis [76]. OS plays a vital role in endometriosis-related infertility [77]. In patients with ovarian endometriosis, endometriotic tissue causes increased expression of OS markers in the surrounding normal ovarian cortex, suggesting that OS was occurring [78]. This result is consistent with the following reports: most OS-related genes are upregulated in endometriotic oocytes compared with those from healthy donors [79]; a possible explanation for this is that the cysts stimulate an ovarian inflammatory response or that components of the cysts (e.g. iron) diffuse into the surrounding tissue, leading to ROS production [80]. The previous section described the critical role of ROS in various physiological stages of the oocytes; however, these supraphysiological ROS levels negatively impact oocytes and fertilization outcomes [81,82]. Excessive ROS induce apoptosis and autophagy in oocytes [83,84], which may at least partly explain the poor oocyte quality and infertility associated with ovarian endometriosis. Endometriosis-related infertility might result from a combination of factors [77], suggesting that a single model is insufficient to describe its pathogenesis. However, treatment targeting OS-induced infertility mechanisms might improve the associated symptoms.

5. Antioxidant therapeutic strategies in ovarian diseases

ROS levels are closely associated with the development of several ovarian diseases. Concordantly, we can treat ovarian diseases by modulating the levels of ovarian ROS. In contrast to conventional approaches, antioxidant therapy efficiently interferes with disease development directly at the signaling mechanism. The following sections describe the action mechanism of representative antioxidant strategies and recent studies on treating ovarian diseases using antioxidant therapy, including antioxidant drugs, hormones, and MSCs (Fig. 3A).

Fig. 3.

(A) Classification of antioxidant strategies and their antioxidant mechanisms. (B) Melatonin's antioxidant cascade and mechanisms of protection against oxidative damage. We have listed only well-studied melatonin metabolites that have significant antioxidant effects. The direct and indirect antioxidant effects of melatonin and its metabolites are presented with dashed and solid arrows, respectively.

EGCG, epigallocatechin-3-gallate; MSCs, mesenchymal stem cells; ROS, reactive oxygen species; 3-OHM, cyclic 3-hydroxymelatonin; AFMK, N(1)-acetyl-N(2)-formyl-5-methoxykynuramine; AMK, N(1)-acetyl-5-methoxykynuramine; GSH, glutathione.

5.1. Antioxidant drugs

Antioxidant drugs have been widely studied owing to their high safety profile in humans and low threshold for use. They are used to treat ovarian diseases by scavenging excess ROS through various pathways and have undergone animal and human trials (Table 1). In recent years, developments in materials science have further advanced the use and efficacy of antioxidant drugs; notably, combining some antioxidant drugs and materials has demonstrated promising results.

Table 1.

Testing of antioxidant drugs in animals and humans.

Drugs	Diseases	Test subjects	Therapeutic effects	Mechanism	References
Resveratrol	Ovarian aging	Mice	Relieves oogonial stem cells loss	Reduces oxidative levels in ovaries; reduces H2O2-induced cytotoxicity and OS injury by activating Nrf2 and SOD2	[156]
Resveratrol	Age-related infertility	Mice	Retains the capacity to reproduce; increases the quantity and quality of oocytes	Increases telomerase activity and telomere length	[89]
Resveratrol	POF	Mice	Increases survival of FGSCs and follicle number; improves the ovarian function	Relieves OS and inflammation; increases SOD, GPx, and CAT	[90]
Resveratrol	PCOS	Rats	Improves insulin resistance	Reduces MDA and lipid peroxidation; increases TAC	[91]
Resveratrol and metformin	PCOS	Rats	Improves weight gain, hormone profile, and ovarian follicular cell architecture	Induces antioxidant and antiinflammatory systems via SIRT1 and AMPK activation	[157]
Resveratrol	PCOS	Human	Decreases pro-inflammatory and endoplasmic reticulum stress markers	The suppression of NF-κB and NF-κB-regulated gene products; alters the expression of genes involved in UPR process	[92]
Resveratrol	PCOS	Human	Improves menstrual cyclicity and hair loss	Not available	[93]
Green tea extract	PCOS	Rat	Reduces insulin resistance index; improves the symptoms of PCOS	Not available	[99]
EGCG	Endometriosis	Mice	Inhibits the development of endometriosis and angiogenesis	Reduces mRNA for VEGF-A	[100]
EGCG	Endometriosis	Mice	Inhibits angiogenesis	Suppresses VEGF-C/VEGFR2 expression	[101]
Green tea	PCOS	Human	Reduces weight, fasting insulin, and the level of free testosterone	Not available	[158]
Curcumin	Ovarian aging	Mice	Delays ovarian aging	Reduces oxidative stress; increases AMH and estrogen; decreases FSH	[109]
Curcumin	PCOS	Human	Reduces OS-related complications in patients with PCOS	Increases gene expression of PGC1α and activity of the GPx enzyme	[110]
NAC	Ovarian aging	Mice	Improves the quality of oocytes and early embryo development	Increases expression of SIRT, telomerase activity, and telomere length	[117]
NAC	Ischemia-reperfusion injury in xenotransplanted human ovarian tissue	Mice	Reduces the loss of ovarian follicles; increases follicle density	Increases expression of SOD1, heme oxygenase-1, and CAT; anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic effects	[118]
NAC	Ovarian endometriosis	Human	Reduces cyst mean diameter	Not available	[119]
NAC	Infertility	Human	Increases the number of high-quality blastocysts	Increases GSH content in the follicular fluid	[120]
VC	PCOS	Mice	Reduces ovarian weight; improves cysts in the ovaries and congestion in the uterus	Increases TAC and expression of antioxidant enzyme genes; reduces MDA	[123]
VC	Ovarian aging	Mice	Restores ovarian follicular reservation	Not available	[159]
Selenium and VE	OPOI	Human	Increases AMH, antral follicle count, and mean ovarian volume	Not available	[125]
CoQ10	PCOS	Human	Improves glucose and lipid metabolism	Not available	[127]
Astaxanthin	Ovarian damage	Rats	Reduces histopathological ovarian damage	Increases TAC and GSH; reduces MDA	[160]
Astaxanthin	PCOS	Human	Increases the MII oocyte and high-quality embryo rate	Increases levels of serum CAT, TAC, and expression of Nrf2	[129]

Abbreviations: OS, oxidative stress; Nrf2, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2; SOD, superoxide dismutase; POF, premature ovarian failure; GPx, glutathione peroxidase; CAT, catalase; PCOS, polycystic ovary syndrome; MDA, malondialdehyde; TAC, total antioxidant capacity; FGSCs, female germline stem cells; SIRT, sirtuins; AMPK, AMP-dependent protein kinase; NF-κB, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells; UPR, unfolding protein response; EGCG, epigallocatechin-3-gallate; VEGF, vascular endothelial growth factor; VEGFR2, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2; AMH, anti-Müllerian hormone; FSH, follicle-stimulating hormone; PGC1α, peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma coactivator 1α; NAC, N-acetylcysteine; GSH, glutathione; VC, vitamin C; VE, vitamin E; OPOI, occult premature ovarian insufficiency; CoQ10, coenzyme Q10.

5.1.1. Resveratrol

Resveratrol is a plant-derived polyphenol with antioxidant and anticancer effects [85]. The antioxidant activity of resveratrol is related to the promotion of antioxidant enzyme synthesis and the involvement of its hydroxyl group in ROS scavenging, as well as to the reduction of copper-mediated oxidation and the prevention of low-density lipoproteins and cell membrane lipid peroxidation [86]. In addition, resveratrol can also protect mitochondrial function by activating the SIRT1 and SIRT3 signaling pathways and reduce oxidative damage by regulating mitochondrial ROS homeostasis in vivo [87,88].

The antioxidant properties of resveratrol have been demonstrated in animals. Mice fed resveratrol for 12 months exhibited improved reproductive capacity, follicular pools, telomerase activity, and telomere length compared with that in control mice, and these results highlight the role of resveratrol in delaying ovarian aging [89]. In another study, researchers lavaged premature ovarian failure (POF) model mice with resveratrol. They observed elevated levels of GPx, SOD2, and CAT, and a significant increase in ovarian weight as well as follicle number in POF mice, suggesting that resveratrol is a potential anti-POF agent [90]. Resveratrol can also be administered by intraperitoneal injection. Intraperitoneal injection of resveratrol reduced serum malondialdehyde (MDA, a major biomarker for the assessment of lipid peroxidation) levels and IR, increased serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and alleviated complications in PCOS mice [91]. In human-controlled trials, the resveratrol-treated PCOS group had reduced pro-inflammatory and ER stress markers [92], and improved menstrual cyclicity [93], suggesting that resveratrol might reduce complications in PCOS patients. In addition to these antioxidant effects, resveratrol might also inhibit human ovarian cancer progression and angiogenesis by inhibiting HIF-1α and VEGF expression, providing a new potential therapy for the treatment of ovarian cancer [94].

Notably, resveratrol is a low water-soluble drug, which limits its efficacy [95]. The therapeutic efficiency of resveratrol in hamster ovaries may be improved using synthesizing phosphate monoester anionic surfactant-mesoporous silica nanoparticles as drug carriers [96], thereby expanding the application of the drug. These findings suggest that resveratrol is a promising antioxidant with potential clinical applications.

5.1.2. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is the most physiologically active catechin in green tea, containing potent antioxidant properties [97]. EGCG acts as an antioxidant through several mechanisms: chelation of free transition metals to reduce ROS production, scavenging of ROS by groups on EGCG, inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthase, inhibition of pro-oxidant enzyme production, activation of antioxidant enzymes, and inhibition of inflammation [98]. Green tea extract improved IR and increased follicle number in a rat model of PCOS [99], demonstrating the role of EGCG in the ovary. Angiogenesis is widely believed to play a crucial role in the development of endometriosis lesions. Levels of VEGF A and C mRNA decreased after EGCG therapy, which suggested that EGCG inhibited angiogenesis to reduce endometriosis damage [100,101]. However, EGCG is easily oxidized in neutral or alkaline environments, and its bioavailability in humans is low [102].

Research is currently focused on improving the bioavailability of EGCG. Combining poly(acrylic acid) and EGCG to form poly(acrylic acid)-EGCG conjugates, produces nanoparticles with stronger oxidative stability and ROS scavenging ability than natural EGCG [103]. EGCG also has potent anticancer potential [104], and its combination with materials for cancer treatment is gaining research interest. Nanogels consisting of hyaluronic acid-EGCG conjugate, the cytotoxic protein Granzyme B (GzmB), and linear polyethyleneimine could be used for intracellular delivery of GzmB in targeted cancer therapy [105]. In another study, researchers mixed hyaluronic acid-EGCG conjugate with cisplatin to form micellar nanocomplexes with a spherical core-shell structure, in which the antioxidant effect of the EGCG molecules protected non-target organs from cisplatin-induced OS [106]. These studies demonstrate the promising potential of EGCG for treating ovarian diseases.

5.1.3. Curcumin

Curcumin is a phenolic compound of plant origin and a natural antioxidant [107]. The antioxidant properties of curcumin are due to the direct involvement of its functional group in the scavenging of ROS and the upregulation of gene expression of the antioxidant enzymes SOD, CAT, GR, and GPx through the Nrf2 pathway [108]. Curcumin can reduce OS to postpone ovarian aging in mice [109] and improve complications in PCOS patients [110]. In addition, curcumin reportedly exerts anticancer properties through multiple biological pathways involved in cancer apoptosis, progression, and metastasis [111]. Curcumin is lipophilic and can freely cross cell membranes, meanwhile, it has a substantially low water solubility, resulting in considerably low bioavailability [112]. Therefore, improving the bioavailability of curcumin for cancer treatment has attracted research interest. Nanocarriers such as polymeric micelles, nanoparticles, liposomes, conjugates, and peptide carriers have been developed to improve the bioavailability of curcumin [112]. Encapsulation of curcumin in poly(lactic-co-glycolide) nanoparticles by nano-precipitation techniques can effectively enhance the bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of curcumin, thereby improving drug uptake and retention in A2780CP ovarian cancer cells (a cisplatin-resistant/metastatic ovarian cancer cell line) [113]. Super-paramagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles loaded with curcumin reduce degradation during drug transport, increase bioavailability, and reduce ovarian damage and apoptosis in PCOS [114]. These studies highlight the potential therapeutic value of curcumin in ovarian diseases.

5.1.4. N-acetylcysteine

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a potent antioxidant. It can act as a precursor to increasing levels of GSH in vivo, which act as a direct antioxidant and a substrate for several antioxidant enzymes [115,116]. NAC-fed mice have higher quality oocytes and telomerase activity as well as longer telomere length, demonstrating that it can delay the onset of ovarian aging [117]. NAC increased the expression of antioxidant enzymes such as SOD1 and CAT and decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines and apoptotic factors, suggesting that NAC can treat OS injury in mice transplanted with human ovarian tissue [118]. The therapeutic effect of NAC has also been demonstrated in controlled clinical trials. In patients with endometriosis, NAC reduced the mean diameter of ovarian cysts compared to the control group [119]. NAC treatment increased GSH levels in follicular fluid and improved blastocyst quality in older women [120]. In addition, a systematic evaluation and meta-analysis revealed that NAC significantly improved pregnancy and ovulation rates in patients with PCOS [121], suggesting its potential as an antioxidant in treating ovarian diseases.

5.1.5. Other antioxidant drugs

In addition to the antioxidant drugs mentioned in the earlier sections, VC, VE, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), and astaxanthin are used in ovarian disease treatment. VC is a water-soluble natural antioxidant [122]. In mice, VC increased TAC and alleviated OS damage in PCOS by upregulating the expression of antioxidant enzymes, suggesting a possible use in treatment [123]; VE is a fat-soluble antioxidant that protects tissues from lipid peroxidation [124]. Co-administration of VE and selenium alleviated ovarian OS, increased the anti-Müllerian hormone index and antral follicle count in women with occult premature ovarian insufficiency, and partially restored ovarian function [125]; CoQ10 is a potent lipophilic antioxidant [126]. In controlled clinical trials, glucose and lipid metabolism were improved in PCOS patients in the CoQ10 treatment group, demonstrating a beneficial effect [127]; Astaxanthin is a carotenoid with unusual antioxidant activity [128]. In a controlled human trial, astaxanthin supplementation increased serum CAT and TAC levels in PCOS patients, while increasing high-quality embryo rates [129].

5.2. Hormones

Over the last two decades, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has gained much attention as a new strategy to reduce OS and treat ovarian diseases. The main hormones used as antioxidants include melatonin and growth hormone, with melatonin being the most interesting to researchers.

5.2.1. Melatonin

Melatonin is an endogenous radical scavenger, synthesized and secreted mainly by the pineal gland and distributed in various tissues [130]. Melatonin can reduce OS by scavenging ROS in several ways (Fig. 3B). Melatonin can be directly involved in ROS scavenging through electron donation, and its derivatives also have an antioxidant capacity [131]. In addition, melatonin metabolites such as N(1)-acetyl-N(2)-formyl-5-methoxykynuramine and N(1)-acetyl-5-methoxykynuramine also have a strong ROS scavenging capacity and form an antioxidant cascade with melatonin to maintain redox homeostasis [131,132]. In addition to its direct involvement in the scavenging of ROS, melatonin also enhances the cellular antioxidant defense system in several indirect ways (Table 2). These mechanisms of action provide a theoretical basis for using melatonin as an antioxidant.

Table 2.

Melatonin indirectly enhances the antioxidant defense system of cells.

Test subjects	Antioxidant methods	Mechanism	References
ECV304 cell line	Increases antioxidant GSH	Increases the expression of gamma-glutamylcysteine synthetase	[161]
Brain homogenates from rats	Suppresses pro-oxidant enzymes	Reduces the activity of pro-oxidant enzymes such as XO and MPO	[162]
Cells from mice	Anti-inflammatory	Exerts anti-inflammatory effect via the ERK/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling	[163]
Oocytes from mice	Increases antioxidant enzyme	Increase the expression of GPx1/SOD1	[164]
Mice	Increases antioxidant enzyme	Enhances the SIRT3 activity; increases the binding affinity of FoxO3a to the promoters of both SOD2 and CAT	[165]
Mice	Increases antioxidant enzyme	Increases in total antioxidative capacity and SOD level via MT1/AMPK pathway	[166]
Rats	Maintenance of mitochondrial homeostasis	Increases the activity of the respiratory chain complexes I and IV; reduces electron leakage and ROS generation	[167]

Abbreviations: ECV304 cell line, human umbilical vascular endothelial cell line; GSH, glutathione; XO, xanthine oxidase; MPO, myeloperoxidase; ERK, extracellular regulated kinase; Nrf2, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2; HO-1, heme oxygenase-1; GPx1, glutathione peroxidase 1; SOD, superoxide dismutase; FoxO3a, forkhead box O 3a; CAT, catalase; MT1, melatonin membrane receptor 1; AMPK, AMP-dependent protein kinase; ROS, reactive oxygen species.

In addition to mechanistic studies, melatonin has also demonstrated excellent performance in trials of ovarian diseases (Table 3). Telomere length, fertilization, blastocyst rates, and follicle numbers were increased in mice, with melatonin supplementation, demonstrating that melatonin delays ovarian aging and fertility decline [133]. Clinical studies have indicated that melatonin supplementation in patients with infertility significantly increased the TAC of follicular fluid and rebalanced the oxidative status of the follicles, thereby improving oocyte quality and increasing the conception rate [134]. In an observational clinical study, PCOS patients supplemented with melatonin had improved menstrual cycles and hyperandrogenism [135] and increased conception rates after intrauterine insemination [136], demonstrating its potential clinical value. In addition, melatonin has a potential therapeutic effect on ovarian cancer [137]; melatonin can suppress ovarian cancer cell progression and metastasis through the norepinephrine/AKT/β-catenin/SLUG axis [138]. These molecular mechanisms and trials suggested that melatonin has considerable potential as an antioxidant for ovarian disease treatment.

Table 3.

Clinical and animal studies on the antioxidant role of melatonin in ovarian diseases.

Diseases	Test subjects	Dose	Therapeutic effects	Mechanism	References
Ovarian aging	Mice	100 μg/mL water	Increases fertilization rate, blastocyst rate, and telomere length; delays ovarian aging	Reduces autophagy; maintains telomeres; stimulates SIRT expression and ribosome function; antioxidant action	[133]
Ovarian aging	Mice	10 mg/kg	Delays ovarian aging; improves age-induced fertility decline	Reduces mitochondrial ROS; increases SIRT3 activity; increases SOD2 and CAT level	[165]
Ovarian cancer	Rat	200 μg/100 g/d	Reduces angiogenesis	Increases serum levels of melatonin; reduces TGFβ1, VEGF, and levels of VEGF receptor	[168]
PCOS	Human	2 mg/d	Restores menstrual cyclicity	Reduces androgens and AMH levels; increases FSH levels	[135]
PCOS	Human	3 mg/d	Improves the rate of chemical pregnancy	Not available	[136]
PCOS	Human	6 mg/d	Improves hirsutism	Reduces serum TNF-α; increases TAC levels	[169]
Infertility	Human	3 mg/d	Improves oocyte quality and fertilization rates	Protects oocytes from OS	[81]
Infertility	Human	3 mg/d	Increases fertilization rate	Increases intra-follicular melatonin concentrations; reduces intra-follicular oxidative damage	[170]
Infertility	Human	3 or 6 mg/day	Improves oocyte quality	Increases SOD activity and TAC as well as intrafollicular concentrations of melatonin; improves intrafollicular oxidative balance	[134]
Infertility	Human	3 mg/d	Improves oocyte quality and ART outcomes	Down-regulated genes associated with cell death and OS; up-regulated genes associated with angiogenesis and steroidogenesis	[171]

Abbreviations: SIRT, sirtuins; ROS, reactive oxygen species; SOD, superoxide dismutase; CAT, catalase; TGFβ1, transforming growth factor-beta1; VEGF, vascular endothelial growth factor; AMH, anti-Müllerian hormone; FSH, follicle-stimulating hormone; PCOS, polycystic ovary syndrome; TNF-α, tumor necrosis factor-α; TAC, total antioxidant capacity; OS, oxidative stress; ART, assisted reproductive technology.

5.2.2. Growth hormone

Growth hormone has been a familiar growth regulator for over a century. In recent years, growth hormone has gained interest as an antioxidant in treating patients with PCOS and poor ovarian response (POR). In PCOS patients, growth hormone can reduce OS damage by inhibiting ROS accumulation and apoptosis in GCs by activating the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/AKT signaling pathway [139]; it can also improve GCs mitochondrial function and reduce OS improving oocyte quality [140]. In POR patients, growth hormone improves TAC levels in follicular fluid and reduces intracellular ROS levels, improving oocyte quality and the in vitro fertilization outcomes [141]. Furthermore, in addition to treating ovarian diseases, growth hormone can reduce cisplatin-induced apoptosis in ovarian GCs by alleviating OS and enhancing mitochondrial function through the SIRT-SOD2 pathway [142]. Currently, there is a lack of sufficient mechanistic and clinical studies on using growth hormone for antioxidant therapy in the ovary; nonetheless, the findings from the existing studies exhibit promise.

5.3. MSCs: a novel antioxidant strategy

MSCs are multipotent stem cells with the capacity to self-renew [143,144]. Their primary source is the bone marrow, and they can differentiate into various cell types that make up mesenchymal tissues [144]. MSCs were initially used for tissue repair and regeneration, but there is now increasing interest in their antioxidant therapy. MSCs can exert antioxidant effects in several ways: MSCs can directly exhibit antioxidant properties by secreting antioxidant enzymes to scavenge free radicals [145,146]; they can also indirectly upregulate antioxidant defenses in other cells [147,148]. Notably, this indirect antioxidant capacity is non-dose dependent; low and high doses had similar effects on antioxidant and pro-oxidant enzyme mRNA expression, suggesting that both have similar antioxidant effects [147]. In addition, MSCs can improve the regulation of inflammatory responses, enhance cellular respiration and mitochondrial function, or donate their mitochondria to exert antioxidant action [149]. MSCs reduce OS through these mechanisms, partially explaining the therapeutic role of MSCs in various disease models.

In addition to mechanistic studies, the antioxidant properties of MSCs have been demonstrated in various ovarian disease models. Transplanted MSCs restored ovarian function in an ovariectomized rat model by reducing oxidative damage through the upregulated expression of antioxidant factors [148]. MSCs increased serum SOD activity in autologously transplanted ovarian tissue, thereby reducing ischemia-reperfusion-induced OS damage, which improved ovarian structure and function in mice [150]. Exosomal miRNA-17–5p from MSCs attenuated ROS accumulation by inhibiting SIRT7 expression, thereby improving ovarian function in premature ovarian insufficiency [151]. The mechanisms by which increased ROS production leads to the development of PCOS are described in the earlier sections. MSCs increase ovarian TAC levels and decrease MDA levels, which improves folliculogenesis in PCOS mice [152]. These findings provide novel insights into the potential of MSCs and offer new avenues for developing more effective therapies for ovarian diseases.

6. Practical challenges in the clinical application of antioxidant strategies

While the preclinical studies describe the potential value of antioxidant strategies in treating ovarian diseases, these novel strategies also imply new issues that need to be addressed. Practical challenges remain in the translation of these antioxidant strategies into clinical application.

First, although antioxidant strategies have demonstrated therapeutic promise in preclinical research, clinical trial outcomes have often been disappointing. One of the primary reasons for this is that the therapeutic potency of antioxidant strategies is restricted by the extent to which OS plays a role in pathology [20]. Therefore, it is necessary to determine whether OS plays a key role in ovarian disease development before applying antioxidant strategies. Second, there are limitations to the antioxidant strategies. Although significant progress has been made in implementing antioxidant drugs in recent years, issues remain, including the low bioavailability and weak redox-modulating ability of traditional drugs. How to overcome biocompatibility and evaluate the therapeutic effect of antioxidant drugs when combined with others materials is an issue that needs to be addressed before clinical application. The role of antioxidants in combination with others materials in improving ovarian function is mostly based on animal studies; however, animal models differ from humans in biology, physiology, and immunology, which may lead to an unsuccessful transition from animal to human therapy. Notably, using some natural or synthetic compounds could efficiently protect normal cells from OS-induced diseases, such as ovarian cancer. Still, their use in cancer patients may reduce the efficiency of chemotherapy because the primary target of these drugs is the activation of Nrf2/KEAP1 signaling, which is a critical factor involved in the occurrence of chemoresistance [24,59]. It is necessary to develop new strategies to address the conflicting effects of antioxidant drugs. HRT has been extensively studied as an essential part of the antioxidant strategy, but some controversy remains. Melatonin is associated with an increased risk of daytime sleepiness and headache [153]. Growth hormone is associated with the progression of several cancers [154]. After entering the body, these hormones act on non-target organs, causing side effects that pose a challenge to their clinical application. Furthermore, there are several outstanding issues regarding the application of MSCs, and the heterogeneity, immunocompatibility, stability, differentiation, and migratory capacity of MSCs may all be barriers to clinical translation [155].

Collectively, antioxidant therapy should be performed with safety as a priority. As the organ that exercises fertility, the ovary affects the health of women as well as the safety of future generations. Therefore, strategies for treating ovarian diseases require long-term scientific research before their clinical application. We believe that scientific and technological advancements will provide theoretical support for implementing such antioxidant strategies.

7. Conclusions and perspective

In conclusion, we have comprehensively reviewed the generation, homeostasis, and physiological role of ROS in the ovary, as well as highlighted its role in ovarian disease pathogenesis and the advances in antioxidant treatment. Biologists and chemists have long explored the generation, homeostasis, physiology, pathology, and scavenging strategies of ovarian ROS, leading to a clearer understanding of the antioxidant therapy for ovarian diseases such as age-related ovarian dysfunction, ovarian cancer, PCOS, and ovarian endometriosis. Some traditional antioxidant drugs have been combined with materials to break the boundaries of antioxidant therapy. This “new use of old drugs” has demonstrated promise in treating various ovarian diseases, particularly ovarian cancer. As the antioxidant mechanisms of hormones and MSCs become clearer, their clinical application is becoming more promising. In short, we believe that further substantial developments in these areas will significantly contribute to the treatment of ovarian diseases.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Author contributions

JL, DL, and ZN contributed to the manuscript writing. JL, YG, ZF, and BZ conducted the image production and manuscript editing. DL and ZN reviewed and supervised the manuscript. All authors have contributed to the manuscript and approved the submitted version.

Funding

National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 82071607); LiaoNing Revitalization Talents Program (No. XLYC1907071); Fok Ying Tung Education Foundation (No. 151039); Key Research and Development Program of Liaoning Province (No. 2018225062); Outstanding Scientific Fund of Shengjing Hospital (No. 202003).

Abbreviations

AKT

protein kinase B

AMH

anti-Müllerian hormone

AMPK

AMP-dependent protein kinase

ART

assisted reproductive technology

CAT

catalase

CoQ10

coenzyme Q10

ECV304 cell line

human umbilical vascular endothelial cell line

ER

endoplasmic reticulum

ERK

extracellular regulated kinase

ERO1

endoplasmic reticulum oxidoreductin 1

FGSCs

female germline stem cells

FoxO3a

forkhead box O 3a

FSH

follicle-stimulating hormone

GCs

granulosa cells

GSH

glutathione

GSSG

oxidized glutathione

GPx

glutathione peroxidase

GR

glutathione reductase

GzmB

granzyme B

HIF-1α

hypoxia-inducible factor-1α

H₂O₂

hydrogen peroxide

HO-1

heme oxygenase-1

HRT

hormone replacement therapy

IR

insulin resistance

KEAP1

kelch Like ECH Associated Protein 1

MDA

malondialdehyde

MPO

myeloperoxidase

MSCs

mesenchymal stem cells

MT1

melatonin membrane receptor 1

NAC

N-acetylcysteine

NADPH

nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate

NF-κB

nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells

NOX

nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase

Nrf2

nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2

¹O₂

singlet oxygen

O₂^•−

superoxide anion

^•OH

hydroxyl radical

OPOI

occult premature ovarian insufficiency

OS

oxidative stress

PCOS

polycystic ovary syndrome

PDI

protein disulfide isomerase

PGC1α

peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma coactivator 1α

POF

premature ovarian failure

POR

poor ovarian response

ROS

reactive oxygen species

SIRT

sirtuins

SOD1

Cu–Zn superoxide dismutase

SOD2

mitochondrial Mn superoxide dismutase

SOD3

superoxide dismutase 3

TAC

total antioxidant capacity

TGFβ1

transforming growth factor-beta1

TNF-α

tumor necrosis factor-α

UPR

unfolded protein response

VC

vitamin C

VE

vitamin E

VEGF

vascular endothelial growth factor

VEGFR2

vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2

XO

xanthine oxidase

Data availability

No data was used for the research described in the article.