Therapies targeting cell energy centers in assisted reproduction: challenges and possible solutions

Mitochondrial dysfunction is increasingly recognized as a key contributor to diminished ovarian reserve and impaired embryo development.

• Mitochondria play important roles in oocyte competence, early embryonic development, and cellular aging.
• Therapeutic strategies targeting mitochondria, like Coenzyme Q10 and mitoquinone, have shown promise in preclinical models.
• Clinical outcomes of mitochondria-targeted therapies are often heterogeneous and inconclusive.
• Factors such as variability in therapeutic targets and timing of intervention may contribute to these inconclusive results.
• Emphasis on well-defined therapeutic targets and relevant experimental systems could enhance treatment efficacy.
• Rigorous safety evaluations are necessary, particularly for therapies with potential heritable effects.

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