Benzo[a]pyrene Inhibition of Follicular Development and Survival Is Associated with Dysregulation of Hsp90, Bax, CYP1A1, and CYP1B1 Expression.

Decreased fertility and poorer response to ovulation induction have been reported in women who smoke compared to non-smokers. We have demonstrated the cytotoxic effects of benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P), an important component of cigarette smoke, on antral follicle development, on follicular atresia and steroid production. However, the mechanisms underlying the deleterious effects of B[a]P on follicular development are unknown. We hypothesize that …