Embryoman
Successful embryo implantation and pregnancy depends on careful control of the immune system. In this post, we’ll explore the general workings of the immune system and its role in pregnancy, examining how dysregulation of immune cells like natural killer (NK) cells and macrophages can impact fertility. Additionally, we’ll look into autoimmunity and discuss how immunotherapies may be used to improve IVF outcomes.
The egg cell contains a high number of mitochondria, which are tiny cellular organs that produce energy that the egg needs to power fertilization and embryo development. Research has shown that these mitochondria can become dysfunctional with age, leading to reduced energy availability for the egg that could result in poor egg quality. Different treatments that target mitochondria, like antioxidant supplements or mitochondrial donation, may improve egg quality, although good quality research is lacking that shows these treatments are truly effective.