Impact of oxidative stress induced by heavy metals on ovarian function

As a crucial organ of the female reproductive system, the ovary has both reproductive and endocrine functions. Oxidative stress refers to an increase in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), which play a role in the normal physiological activity of the ovary. However, excessive ROS can cause damage to the ovary. With the advancement of human industrial activities, heavy metal pollution has become increasingly severe. Heavy metals cause oxidative stress through both direct and indirect mechanisms, leading to changes in signal transduction pathways that damage the ovaries. This review aims to outline the adverse effects of oxidative stress on the ovaries triggered by heavy metals such as copper, arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead. The detrimental effects of heavy metals on ovaries include follicular atresia and decreased estrogen production in experimental animals, and they also cause premature ovarian insufficiency in women. Additionally, this review discusses the role of antioxidants, provides some treatment methods, summarizes the limitations of current research, and offers perspectives for future research directions. HMs can cause OS directly and indirectly, further affecting female reproductive health, especially the ovaries. The adverse effects of HMs (Cu, As, Cd, Hg, Pb, etc.) have unique characteristics. Regarding treatment, the applicability of regeneration technology to ovarian damage requires further investigation. Larger cohort studies are also crucial. Understanding the combined effects of HMs is another key area for future research. Damage to the female reproductive system caused by HMs extends beyond OS, and more mechanisms need to be elucidated.