Evaluation of mineral elements, some antioxidants and biochemicals in follicular fluid of cow ovaries

Abstract Trace elements are essential for follicular development, oocyte maturation and fertility. Nevertheless, as yet, the role of these Trace elements within follicular environment has seldom been investigated in bovines, especially in the presence of contemporary environmental pollution. The objective of this work was to determine the concentrations of toxic elements and trace elements (Cu, Zn, Se, Fe, Co, Mo, Cd, As, Pb, and In) and Malondialdehyde, glutathione, cholesterol, and glucose in bovine follicular fluids (bFFs) in various follicular sizes in different follicular development stages. Important biochemical variables were also measured to correlate them with follicular maturity. Follicles were categorized as small (3–5 mm), medium (6–9 mm), and large (10–22 mm). Follicular fluid (FF) samples were subjected to inductively coupled plasma emission spectrometry (ICPE-9000) trace elements and analyzed spectrophotometrically (glucose, cholesterol, GSH and MDA). A significantly increase (p < 0.05) in the contents of copper, zinc, selenium and cobalt was observed as follicles matured, which may be related to the higher antioxidant and metabolism potential of the mature follicle. Medium follicles showed maximum concentration of iron and molybdenum for follicles of size (6-9 mm). For toxic elements, lead decreased, and arsenic increased in follicle development. Cadmium and indium were found at trace levels, with indium detected for the first time in bovine follicular fluid. Levels of cholesterol and glutathione also increased with the size of the follicles, while MDA decreased, indicating enhanced oxidative status. Glucose was similar in both groups. These findings indicate the stage-dependent regulations of mineral elements in follicle development, which has implications for the maintenance of oocyte quality and follicle health. first-time detection of Inindium (In) raises questions about its potential reproductive effects and environmental implications.