Supplementation of SkQ1 Increases Mouse In Vitro Oocyte Maturation and Subsequent Embryonic Development by Reducing Oxidative Stress

In vitro oocyte maturation (IVM) technology is important for assisted animal and human reproduction. However, the maturation rates and developmental potential of in vitro-matured oocytes are usually lower than those of in vivo-matured oocytes. Oxidative stress is a main factor that causes the lower maturation rates and quality of in vitro-matured oocytes. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of treatment with SkQ1, a mitochondria-targeted antioxidant, on mouse IVM and subsequent embryonic development. The results demonstrated that the supplementation of SkQ1 during IVM improves the maturation rates of mouse oocytes and the subsequent developmental competence of in vitro-fertilized embryos. The addition of SkQ1 to the IVM medium also decreased oxidative stress and apoptosis, and increased mitochondrial membrane potential in matured mouse oocytes. This study provides a new method through which to enhance the maturation rates and the quality of in vitro-matured mouse oocytes, thus promoting the application and development of assisted animal and human reproductive technology.