Endometriosis disrupts oocyte metabolism and cortical granule function, impairing fertilization

The authors investigate how endometriosis affects oocyte metabolism and cortical granule function, contributing to reduced fertilization rates. Using a mouse model, they found that endometriosis leads to increased reactive oxygen species, altered cortical granule exocytosis, and changes in actin architecture, ultimately impairing sperm-oocyte fusion while maintaining early embryonic activation capabilities. These findings enhance the understanding of the cytoplasmic defects associated with endometriosis and their impact on oocyte competence.