Variability of essential and non-essential trace elements in the follicular fluid of women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF)

Both essential and non-essential elements have been associated with female reproductive function in epidemiologic investigations, including among IVF populations. To date, most investigators used blood or urine to assess biomarkers of exposure, few employing ovarian follicular fluid (FF). FF may offer a more direct “snapshot” the oocyte microenvironment than urine, however previous studies report follicle-to-follicle variability constituents that contribute exposure misclassification. Our objectives were investigate sources trace element variability, estimate biomarker reliability women undergoing (n = 34), determine minimum number follicles required subject-specific mean concentrations. We measured As, Hg, Cd, Pb, Cu, Mn, Se, Zn samples using inductively coupled plasma tandem mass spectrometry. Inter-subject (between-women) contributed concentrations, ovarian, follicular, analytical as smaller variability. The proportion attributable between-follicles differed by age, body index (BMI), race, cigarette smoking for Zn, BMI primary infertility diagnosis stimulation protocol Mn Se. Four five individual sufficient while >14 necessary Mn. Overall, our results suggest is suitable source As Hg follicles. Although limited size, study offers comprehensive exploration biological variation date provide guidance future exposures.