The effect of mycotoxin exposure on follicular fluid composition and reproductive
outcomes in women undergoing in vitro fertilisation (IVF) was investigated in this
study. Twenty-five patients were included, and follicular fluid and serum samples
were analysed for various mycotoxins. Principal observations:1. Mycotoxin presence:
All examined mycotoxins were detected in follicular fluid. Follicular fluid (ff) levels:
Deoxynivalenol (DON), alfa-Zearalenol (α-ZOL), Zearalenone (ZEN), and total aflatoxin
(AFs) were significantly higher in follicular fluid than in serum. 2. Follicular fluid
and reproductive outcomes: A positive correlation was observed between the ratio of
oocytes to total follicles and the follicular Fumonisin B1 (FB1) levels. Multiple
linear regression analysis revealed a significant relationship between DON and T-2/HT-2
toxins (T2/HT2) levels in the follicular fluid. 3. Hormone levels: Follicular 17-beta
estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) levels were higher than the serum levels. Follicular
P4 correlated with serum P4 and Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels. In contrast,
follicular E2 did not correlate with plasma E2 levels. 4. Mycotoxin–hormone interactions:
A positive correlation was observed between follicular P4 and T2/HT2 toxin levels,
whereas a negative correlation was found between ffE2 and ffT2/HT2, and a positive
correlation was found between ZEN and E2. Conclusion: This study elucidated the presence
of various mycotoxins in the follicular fluid and their potential influence on reproductive
outcomes. Further research is warranted to clarify the specific mechanisms underlying
these effects and develop strategies for detecting mycotoxin exposure in women undergoing
IVF.