Mitochondria are organelles or parts of an eukaryotic cell .These organelles produce the energy required to perform the different functions of our body, especially the oocyte which is the motor cell that drives the development of a new human being. Mithochondria are vital when natural fertilization occurs as well as when In-Vitro-Fertilization ist carried out.
The genes of the cells are formed by DNA where all the information of the human being is encrypted The genetic DNA is in the nucleus of the cells, however there is another DNA at the level of the mitochondria that is more elementary than the nuclear because it lacks several components, especially repairing enzymes.
As mitochondria energy is produced, more free radicals can appear. If they are not neutralized by the antioxidant systems, these could cause DNA damage both at the mitochondria and at the nucleus level.
The natural reproductive process and the In-Vitro-Fertilization require an important energetic contribution. The oocyte is the only provider of this contribution, and when this is not adequate, a low ovarian reserve can appear.
The most important mitochondrial nutrients, that act as antioxidants and improve their functioning, are Coenzyme Q10, Resveratrol and Alpha-lipoic acid.
These aforementioned nutrients exist in pharmacological form, however they are also found in natural foods. Nuts are rich in Coenzyme Q10, Rioja wine is rich in Resveratrol and food such as spinach, broccoli and yeast extract, are all rich in alphalipoic acid
Regular consumption of these foods are combined with the cycles of In-Vitro-Fertilization to increase the quality of the embryos and to reduce genetic anomalies of the oocytes.
G.Manzanera
