Exploring the role of B complex vitamins in reproductive health ‒ valuable insights and unresolved issues regarding premature ovarian failure

Abstract

Introduction and aim. Premature ovarian failure (POF) is a condition distinguished by a decline in ovarian follicles in women under 40 leading to a disruption in the normal menstrual cycle and fertility. Vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine) and vitamin B-12 (cyanocobalamin) play an important role in ovarian health. The aim was to investigate the effects of vitamins B-6 and B-12, for predicting POF via the association of these vitamins with other biochemical parameters. Material and methods. A total of 80 participants with age ≤ 40 years, 40 POF women, and 40 fertile control women were recruited in this study from November 2023 to March 2024. Serum levels of prolactin (PRO), thyroid hormones, estradiol (E-2), progesterone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), 17-alpha hydroxylase, and inhibin alpha (INH-α) were measured using the ELISA technique while vitamins B-6 and B-12 were measured by HPLC. Results. Serum levels of reproductive hormones (LH, E2, progesterone, and testosterone), vitamin B-6, B-12, T3, T4, 17-alpha hydroxylase, and INH-α were markedly reduced in POF patients, while levels of FSH, TSH, and PRO were significantly elevated compared to healthy controls. Conclusion. This study highlights the critical role of vitamins B-6 and B-12 in the pathophysiology of POF, suggesting their potential as biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis.