A double-edge sword: the role of D-chiro-inositol in oocyte and embryo quality

• Main Authors: M. Minini, G. Monastra, S. Dinicola
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Verduci Editore 2019-12-01
• Series: International Journal of Medical Device and Adjuvant Treatments
• Subjects: aromatase; d-chiro-inositol; epimerase; follicular fluid; insulin resistance; myo-inositol; oocyte; pcos; pregnancy; r-fsh; t2dm
• Online Access: https://www.ijmdat.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2019/12/e208-A-double-edge-sword-the-role-of-D-chiro-inositol-in-oocyte-and-embryo-quality.pdf

D-chiro-inositol is one of the nine stereoisomers of inositol, a water-soluble cyclic carbohydrate with six hydroxyl groups. Inositol has an essential function in the activation of crucial enzymes in glucose metabolism. In fact, D-chiro-inositol shortage can lead to insulin resistance development. D-chiro-inositol administration in pathologies where insulin resistance is an important factor, i.e. diabetes, has given satisfying results; however, in other disorders, i.e. Polycystic ovary syndrome, this stereoisomer can be detrimental for pregnancy. Indeed, high follicular D-chiro-inositol levels in the presence of reduced myo-inositol values are associated with worsened oocyte quality. In conclusion, some recent studies and researches suggest that restoring the physiologic ratio between myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol is mandatory to protect the efficiency of the reproductive system in women.