1
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Wang J, Chen H, Zhang Y, Shen H, Zeng X. Long non-coding RNA Loc105611671 promotes the proliferation of ovarian granulosa cells and steroid hormone production upregulation of CDC42. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1366759. [PMID: 38500606 PMCID: PMC10944914 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1366759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Granulosa cells (GCs) are essential for follicular development, and long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) are known to support the maintenance of this process and hormone synthesis in mammals. Nevertheless, the regulatory roles of these lncRNAs within sheep follicular GCs remain largely unexplored. This study delved into the influence of a Loc105611671, on the proliferation and steroid hormone synthesis of sheep ovarian GCs and the associated target genes in vitro. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) gain-of-function experiments indicated that overexpression of Loc105611671 significantly boosted GCs proliferation, along with estrogen (E2) and progesterone (P4) levels. Further mechanistic scrutiny revealed that Loc105611671 is primarily localized within the cytoplasm of ovarian granulosa cells and engages in molecular interplay with CDC42. This interaction results in the upregulation of CDC42 protein expression. Moreover, it was discerned that increased CDC42 levels contribute to augmented proliferation of follicular granulosa cells and the secretion of E2 and P4. Experiments involving co-transfection elucidated that the concurrent overexpression of CDC42 and Loc105611671 acted synergistically to potentiate these effects. These findings provide insights into the molecular underpinnings of fecundity in ovine species and may inform future strategies for enhancing reproductive outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinglei Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Hanying Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Yongsheng Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Hong Shen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Xiancun Zeng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi, Xinjiang, China
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2
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Sharma S, Wang SA, Yang WB, Lin HY, Lai MJ, Chen HC, Kao TY, Hsu FL, Nepali K, Hsu TI, Liou JP. First-in-Class Dual EZH2-HSP90 Inhibitor Eliciting Striking Antiglioblastoma Activity In Vitro and In Vivo. J Med Chem 2024; 67:2963-2985. [PMID: 38285511 PMCID: PMC10895674 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c02053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Structural analysis of tazemetostat, an FDA-approved EZH2 inhibitor, led us to pinpoint a suitable site for appendage with a pharmacophoric fragment of second-generation HSP90 inhibitors. Resultantly, a magnificent dual EZH2/HSP90 inhibitor was pinpointed that exerted striking cell growth inhibitory efficacy against TMZ-resistant Glioblastoma (GBM) cell lines. Exhaustive explorations of chemical probe 7 led to several revelations such as (i) compound 7 increased apoptosis/necrosis-related gene expression, whereas decreased M phase/kinetochore/spindle-related gene expression as well as CENPs protein expression in Pt3R cells; (ii) dual inhibitor 7 induced cell cycle arrest at the M phase; (iii) compound 7 suppressed reactive oxygen species (ROS) catabolism pathway, causing the death of TMZ-resistant GBM cells; and (iv) compound 7 elicited substantial in vivo anti-GBM efficacy in experimental mice xenografted with TMZ-resistant Pt3R cells. Collectively, the study results confirm the potential of dual EZH2-HSP90 inhibitor 7 as a tractable anti-GBM agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachin Sharma
- School
of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei
Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Shao-An Wang
- School
of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Bin Yang
- TMU
Research Center of Neuroscience, Taipei
Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Yi Lin
- Graduate
Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Jung Lai
- TMU
Research Center for Drug Discovery, Taipei
Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Hsien-Chung Chen
- TMU
Research Center of Neuroscience, Taipei
Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Department
of Neurosurgery, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei
Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Ph.D.
Program in Medical Neuroscience, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and National Health Research
Institutes, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Yuan Kao
- School
of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei
Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Ph.D.
Program in Medical Neuroscience, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and National Health Research
Institutes, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Feng-Lin Hsu
- School
of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Kunal Nepali
- School
of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei
Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- TMU
Research Center for Drug Discovery, Taipei
Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Ph.D.
Program in Drug Discovery and Development Industry, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-I Hsu
- TMU
Research Center of Neuroscience, Taipei
Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- TMU
Research Center for Drug Discovery, Taipei
Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Ph.D.
Program in Medical Neuroscience, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University and National Health Research
Institutes, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- International
Master Program in Medical Neuroscience, College of Medical Science
and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- TMU
Research Center of Cancer Translational Medicine, Taipei 110 Taiwan
| | - Jing-Ping Liou
- School
of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei
Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- TMU
Research Center for Drug Discovery, Taipei
Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- TMU
Research Center of Cancer Translational Medicine, Taipei 110 Taiwan
- Ph.D.
Program in Drug Discovery and Development Industry, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
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3
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Zhang T, Lin H, Ren T, He M, Zheng W, Tong Y, Jin B, Xie K, Deng A, Liu S, Chen Y, Xu G, Chen T, Pan W, Xiao Z. ROCK1 is a multifunctional factor maintaining the primordial follicle reserve and follicular development in mice. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2024; 326:C27-C39. [PMID: 37661919 PMCID: PMC11192470 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00019.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
The follicle is the basic structural and functional unit of the ovary in female mammals. The excessive depletion of follicles will lead to diminished ovarian reserve or even premature ovarian failure, resulting in diminished ovarian oogenesis and endocrine function. Excessive follicular depletion is mainly due to loss of primordial follicles. Our analysis of published human ovarian single-cell sequencing results by others revealed a significant increase in rho-associated protein kinase 1 (ROCK1) expression during primordial follicle development. However, the role of ROCK1 in primordial follicle development and maintenance is not clear. This study revealed a gradual increase in ROCK1 expression during primordial follicle activation. Inhibition of ROCK1 resulted in reduced primordial follicle activation, decreased follicular reserve, and delayed development of growing follicles. This effect may be achieved through the HIPPO pathway. The present study indicates that ROCK1 is a key molecule for primordial follicular reserve and follicular development.NEW & NOTEWORTHY ROCK1, one of the Rho GTPases, plays an important role in primordial follicle reserve and follicular development. ROCK1 was primarily expressed in the cytoplasm of oocytes and granulosa cell in mice. Inhibition of ROCK1 significantly reduced the primordial follicle reserve and delayed growing follicle development. ROCK1 regulates primordial follicular reserve and follicle development through the HIPPO signaling pathway. These findings shed new lights on the physiology of sustaining female reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuo Zhang
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center in Guizhou Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis & Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Huan Lin
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianhe Ren
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Meina He
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenying Zheng
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuntong Tong
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Bangming Jin
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center in Guizhou Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis & Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Kaiyun Xie
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Ankang Deng
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Shiyu Liu
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuqian Chen
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Guoqiang Xu
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Tengxiang Chen
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center in Guizhou Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis & Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Pan
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center in Guizhou Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziwen Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
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4
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Uju CN, Unniappan S. Growth factors and female reproduction in vertebrates. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 579:112091. [PMID: 37863469 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.112091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Female reproductive efficiency is influenced by the outcomes of various processes, including folliculogenesis, apoptosis, response to gonadotropin signaling, oocyte maturation, and ovulation. The role of hormones in regulating these processes and other reproductive activities has been well established. It is becoming increasingly evident that in addition to well-characterized hormones, growth factors play vital roles in regulating some of these reproductive activities. Growth factors and their receptors are widely distributed in vertebrate ovaries at different stages of ovarian development, indicating their involvement in intraovarian reproductive functions. In the ovary, cell surface receptors allow growth factors to regulate intraovarian reproductive activities. Understanding these actions in the reproductive axis would provide a tool to target growth factors and/or their receptors to yield desirable reproductive outcomes. These include enrichment of in vitro maturation and fertilization culture media, and management of infertility. This review discusses some widely characterized growth factors belonging to the TGF, EGF, IGF, FGF, and BDNF family of peptides and their role in female reproduction in vertebrates, with a focus on mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chinelo N Uju
- Laboratory of Integrative Neuroendocrinology, Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Suraj Unniappan
- Laboratory of Integrative Neuroendocrinology, Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N 5B4, Canada.
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5
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Zheng W, Zhang T, Zhao T, Zhu Z, Qin S, Yan H, He M, Zhou B, Xia G, Zhang H, Wang C. cAMP controls the balance between dormancy and activation of primordial follicles in mouse ovaries. PNAS NEXUS 2023; 2:pgad055. [PMID: 36938502 PMCID: PMC10019762 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgad055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
In mammalian ovaries, the balance between dormancy and activation of primordial follicles determines the female fecundity and endocrine homeostasis. Recently, several functional molecules and pathways have been reported to be involved in the activation of primordial follicles. However, the homeostasis regulatory mechanisms of primordial follicle activation are still scant. Our previous study has proved that a relatively higher concentration of cyclic AMP (cAMP) is required for primordial follicle formation. Here, we identified that cAMP also plays a vital role in the balance between dormancy and activation of primordial follicles. Our results showed that the concentration of cAMP remained stable in neonatal mouse ovaries, which is due to ADCY3, the synthetase of cAMP, and PDE3A, the hydrolytic enzyme of cAMP, were synchronously increased during the activation of primordial follicles in mouse ovaries. Once the concentration of cAMP in neonatal ovaries was either elevated or reduced in vitro, the activation of primordial follicles was either accelerated or decelerated accordingly. In addition, a higher concentration of cAMP in the ovaries of puberty mice improved primordial follicle activation in vivo. Finally, cAMP promoted primordial follicle activation via canonical mTORC1-PI3K signaling cascades and PKA signaling. In conclusion, our findings reveal that the concentration of cAMP acts as a key regulator in balancing the dormancy and activation of primordial follicles in the mouse ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ting Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Zijian Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Shaogang Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Hao Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Meina He
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou Province 550025, China
| | - Bo Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Guoliang Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan 750021, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Chao Wang
- To whom correspondence should be addressed:
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6
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Grosbois J, Bailie EC, Kelsey TW, Anderson RA, Telfer EE. Spatio-temporal remodelling of the composition and architecture of the human ovarian cortical extracellular matrix during in vitro culture. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:444-458. [PMID: 36721914 PMCID: PMC9977129 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How does in vitro culture alter the human ovarian cortical extracellular matrix (ECM) network structure? SUMMARY ANSWER The ECM composition and architecture vary in the different layers of the ovarian cortex and are remodelled during in vitro culture. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The ovarian ECM is the scaffold within which follicles and stromal cells are organized. Its composition and structural properties constantly evolve to accommodate follicle development and expansion. Tissue preparation for culture of primordial follicles within the native ECM involves mechanical loosening; this induces undefined modifications in the ECM network and alters cell-cell contact, leading to spontaneous follicle activation. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Fresh ovarian cortical biopsies were obtained from six women aged 28-38 years (mean ± SD: 32.7 ± 4.1 years) at elective caesarean section. Biopsies were cut into fragments of ∼4 × 1 × 1 mm and cultured for 0, 2, 4, or 6 days (D). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Primordial follicle activation, stromal cell density, and ECM-related protein (collagen, elastin, fibronectin, laminin) positive area in the entire cortex were quantified at each time point using histological and immunohistological analysis. Collagen and elastin content, collagen fibre characteristics, and follicle distribution within the tissue were further quantified within each layer of the human ovarian cortex, namely the outer cortex, the mid-cortex, and the cortex-medulla junction regions. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Primordial follicle activation occurred concomitantly with a loosening of the ovarian cortex during culture, characterized by an early decrease in stromal cell density from 3.6 ± 0.2 × 106 at day 0 (D0) to 2.8 ± 0.1 × 106 cells/mm3 at D2 (P = 0.033) and a dynamic remodelling of the ECM. Notably, collagen content gradually fell from 55.5 ± 1.7% positive area at D0 to 42.3 ± 1.1% at D6 (P = 0.001), while elastin increased from 1.1 ± 0.2% at D0 to 1.9 ± 0.1% at D6 (P = 0.001). Fibronectin and laminin content remained stable. Moreover, collagen and elastin distribution were uneven throughout the cortex and during culture. Analysis at the sub-region level showed that collagen deposition was maximal in the outer cortex and the lowest in the mid-cortex (69.4 ± 1.2% versus 53.8 ± 0.8% positive area, respectively, P < 0.0001), and cortical collagen staining overall decreased from D0 to D2 (65.2 ± 2.4% versus 60.6 ± 1.8%, P = 0.033) then stabilized. Elastin showed the converse distribution, being most concentrated at the cortex-medulla junction (3.7 ± 0.6% versus 0.9 ± 0.2% in the outer cortex, P < 0.0001), and cortical elastin peaked at D6 compared to D0 (3.1 ± 0.5% versus 1.3 ± 0.2%, P < 0.0001). This was corroborated by a specific signature of the collagen fibre type across the cortex, indicating a distinct phenotype of the ovarian cortical ECM depending on region and culture period that might be responsible for the spatio-temporal and developmental pattern of follicular distribution observed within the cortex. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Ovarian cortical biopsies were obtained from women undergoing caesarean sections. As such, the data obtained may not accurately reflect the ECM distribution and structure of non-pregnant women. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Clarifying the composition and architecture signature of the human ovarian cortical ECM provides a foundation for further exploration of ovarian microenvironments. It is also critical for understanding the ECM-follicle interactions regulating follicle quiescence and awakening, leading to improvements in both in vitro activation and in vitro growth techniques. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) Medical Research Council grant MR/R003246/1 and Wellcome Trust Collaborative Award in Science: 215625/Z/19/Z. The authors have no conflicts to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanne Grosbois
- Institute of Cell Biology, Hugh Robson Building, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Emily C Bailie
- Institute of Cell Biology, Hugh Robson Building, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Tom W Kelsey
- School of Computer Science, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Evelyn E Telfer
- Institute of Cell Biology, Hugh Robson Building, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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7
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Zhang T, He M, Zhang J, Tong Y, Chen T, Wang C, Pan W, Xiao Z. Mechanisms of primordial follicle activation and new pregnancy opportunity for premature ovarian failure patients. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1113684. [PMID: 36926197 PMCID: PMC10011087 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1113684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Primordial follicles are the starting point of follicular development and the basic functional unit of female reproduction. Primordial follicles are formed around birth, and most of the primordial follicles then enter a dormant state. Since primordial follicles are limited in number and can't be renewed, dormant primordial follicles cannot be reversed once they enter the growing state. Thus, the orderly occurrence of primordial follicles selective activation directly affects the rate of follicle consumption and thus determines the length of female reproductive lifespan. Studies have found that appropriately inhibiting the activation rate of primordial follicles can effectively slow down the rate of follicle consumption, maintain fertility and delay ovarian aging. Based on the known mechanisms of primordial follicle activation, primordial follicle in vitro activation (IVA) technique has been clinically developed. IVA can help patients with premature ovarian failure, middle-aged infertile women, or infertile women due to gynecological surgery treatment to solve infertility problems. The study of the mechanism of selective activation of primordial follicles can contribute to the development of more efficient and safe IVA techniques. In this paper, recent mechanisms of primordial follicle activation and its clinical application are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuo Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.,Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Prenatal Diagnosis Center in Guizhou Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.,College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Meina He
- College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Yuntong Tong
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Tengxiang Chen
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Chao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Pan
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center in Guizhou Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Ziwen Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
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8
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Wang Y, Zhang J, Liang J, Jia L, Niu S, Cheng K, Yang C, Lu Z, Mu L, Yang X, Zhang Y, Zhang H. In vivo promotion of primordial follicle activation by stem cell factor treatment in mice with premature ovarian insufficiency and advanced age. Mol Hum Reprod 2022; 29:6881085. [PMID: 36477300 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaac041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dormant primordial follicles (PFs) are the most abundant reproductive resource in mammalian ovaries. With advances in the mechanism of study of the regulation of PF activation, PFs have been used to improve fertility in clinical practice. As a central controlling element of follicle activation signaling, the pre-granulosa cell-secreted stem cell factor (SCF; also known as KIT ligand, KITL), which initiates the growth of dormant oocytes, is an ideal natural activator that stimulates follicle activation. However, no systematic study has been conducted to identify the activating effect of SCF in vivo and in vitro. In this study, by combining an in vitro whole ovary culture system and several mouse models, we provide a series of experimental evidence that SCF is an efficient activator for improving PF activation in mouse ovaries. Our in vitro study showed that SCF increased phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling and PF activation ratio in neonatal ovaries. In vivo ovarian non-invasive topical administrations of SCF to the ovaries efficiently improved follicle activation and development, oocyte retrieval ratio and fertility in inducible premature ovarian insufficiency mouse models and aged mice. Our study suggests that SCF is an efficient growth factor that can be applied to improve PF activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yibo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiawei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health (Institute of Nutrition and Health), China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Longzhong Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Shudong Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Kaixin Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Chen Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zining Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Lu Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Xuebing Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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9
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Rodríguez-Eguren A, Gómez-Álvarez M, Francés-Herrero E, Romeu M, Ferrero H, Seli E, Cervelló I. Human Umbilical Cord-Based Therapeutics: Stem Cells and Blood Derivatives for Female Reproductive Medicine. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415942. [PMID: 36555583 PMCID: PMC9785531 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
There are several conditions that lead to female infertility, where traditional or conventional treatments have limited efficacy. In these challenging scenarios, stem cell (SC) therapies have been investigated as alternative treatment strategies. Human umbilical cord (hUC) mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSC), along with their secreted paracrine factors, extracts, and biomolecules, have emerged as promising therapeutic alternatives in regenerative medicine, due to their remarkable potential to promote anti-inflammatory and regenerative processes more efficiently than other autologous treatments. Similarly, hUC blood derivatives, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP), or isolated plasma elements, such as growth factors, have also demonstrated potential. This literature review aims to summarize the recent therapeutic advances based on hUC-MSCs, hUC blood, and/or other plasma derivatives (e.g., extracellular vesicles, hUC-PRP, and growth factors) in the context of female reproductive medicine. We present an in-depth analysis of the principal molecules mediating tissue regeneration, compiling the application of these therapies in preclinical and clinical studies, within the context of the human reproductive tract. Despite the recent advances in bioengineering strategies that sustain delivery and amplify the scope of the therapeutic benefits, further clinical trials are required prior to the wide implementation of these alternative therapies in reproductive medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adolfo Rodríguez-Eguren
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 05610, USA
| | | | - Emilio Francés-Herrero
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Mónica Romeu
- Gynecological Service, Consortium General University Hospital of Valencia, 46014 Valencia, Spain
| | - Hortensia Ferrero
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Emre Seli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 05610, USA
- IVIRMA New Jersey, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920, USA
| | - Irene Cervelló
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Correspondence: or
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10
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Yu J, Xie X, Ma Y, Yang Y, Wang C, Xia G, Ding X, Liu X. Effects and potential mechanism of Ca 2+/calmodulin‑dependent protein kinase II pathway inhibitor KN93 on the development of ovarian follicle. Int J Mol Med 2022; 50:121. [PMID: 35929517 PMCID: PMC9387563 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2022.5177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Adequate regulation of the speed of follicular development has been reported to prolong the reproductive life of the ovary. The aim of the present study was to assess the potential effects and mechanism of the Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) pathway on the development of ovarian follicle. In the present study, the expression of CaMKII was measured in the ovary of mice at different developmental stages by immunofluorescence, confirming that CaMKII has a role in follicular development. Subsequently, the 17.5 days post-coitus (dpc) embryonic ovaries were collected and cultured with KN93 for 4 days in vitro. It was revealed that KN93 inhibited the development of follicles, where it reduced the expression levels of oocyte and granulosa cell markers DEAD-box helicase 4 (DDX4) and forkhead box L2 (FOXL2). These results suggested that KN93 could delay follicular development. Proteomics technology was then used to find that 262 proteins of KN93 treated 17.5 dpc embryonic ovaries were significantly altered after in vitro culture. Bioinformatics analysis was used to analyze these altered proteins. In total, four important Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genome pathways, namely steroid biosynthesis, p53 signaling pathway and retinol metabolism and metabolic pathways, were particularly enriched. Further analysis revealed that the upregulated proteins NADP-dependent steroid dehydrogenase-like (Nsdhl), lanosterol synthase (Lss), farnesyl-diphosphate farnesyltransferase 1 (Fdft1), cytochrome P450 family 51 family A member 1 (Cyp51a1), hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA synthase 1 (Hmgcs1), fatty acid synthase (Fasn) and dimethylallyltranstransferase (Fdps) were directly interacting with each other in the four enriched pathways. In summary, the potential mechanism of KN93 in slowing down follicular development most likely lies in its inhibitory effects on CaMKII, which upregulated the expression of Nsdhl, Lss, Fdft1, Cyp51a1, Hmgcs1, Fasn and Fdps. This downregulated the expression of oocyte and granulosa cell markers DDX4 and FOXL2 in the follicles, thereby delaying follicular development. Overall, these results provide novel insight into the potential mechanism by which KN93 and CaMKII can delay follicular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianjie Yu
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750021, P.R. China
| | - Xianguo Xie
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750021, P.R. China
| | - Yabo Ma
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750021, P.R. China
| | - Yi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750021, P.R. China
| | - Chao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750021, P.R.China
| | - Guoliang Xia
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750021, P.R. China
| | - Xiangbin Ding
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Breeding and Healthy Husbandry, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Tianjin Agricultural University, Tianjin 300384, P.R. China
| | - Xinfeng Liu
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region 750021, P.R. China
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11
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Li B, Wang W, Huang Y, Han L, Li J, Zheng N, Wu Z, Zhang X, Li X, Deng L, Lin M, Chen X, Zhang M. Lithium treatment promotes the activation of primordial follicles through PI3K/Akt signaling. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:1059-1071. [PMID: 35871551 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
In mammals, dormant primordial follicles represent the ovarian reserve throughout reproductive life. In vitro activation of dormant primordial follicles has been used to treat patients with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). However, there remains a lack of effective strategies to stimulate follicle activation in vivo. In this study, we used an in vitro ovarian culture system and intraperitoneal injection to study the effect of lithium treatment on primordial follicle activation. Lithium increased the number of growing follicles in cultured mouse ovaries and promoted pre-granulosa cell proliferation. Furthermore, lithium significantly increased the levels of phosphorylated protein kinase B (Akt) and the number of oocytes with forkhead Box O3a (FOXO3a) nuclear export. Inhibition of the phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway by LY294002 reversed lithium-promoted mouse primordial follicle activation. These results suggest that lithium promotes mouse primordial follicle activation by the PI3K/Akt signaling. Lithium also promoted primordial follicle activation and increased the levels of p-Akt in mouse ovaries in vivo and in human ovarian tissue cultured in vitro. Taken together, lithium promotes primordial follicle activation in mice and humans by the PI3K/Akt signaling. Lithium might be a potential oral drug for treating infertility in POI patients with residual dormant primordial follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biao Li
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology , College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193 , China
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Weiyong Wang
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Yingying Huang
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Lincheng Han
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Jia Li
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology , College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193 , China
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Nana Zheng
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology , College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193 , China
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Zhanying Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology , College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193 , China
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Xiaodan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology , College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193 , China
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Xuelan Li
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine , Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), Foshan 528300, Guangdong , China
| | - Ling Deng
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine , Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), Foshan 528300, Guangdong , China
| | - Min Lin
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine , Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), Foshan 528300, Guangdong , China
| | - Xin Chen
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine , Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), Foshan 528300, Guangdong , China
| | - Meijia Zhang
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
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12
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Wang X, Chen ZJ. A decade of discovery: the stunning progress of premature ovarian insufficiency research in China. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:27-39. [PMID: 35639630 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is one of key aspects of ovarian infertility. Due to early cession of ovarian function, POI imposes great challenges on the physiological and psychological health of women, and becomes a common cause of female infertility. In the worldwide, there has been a special outpouring of concern for about four million reproductive-aged women suffering from POI in China. Driven by advances in new technologies and efforts invested by Chinses researchers, understanding about POI has constantly been progressing over the past decade. Here, we comprehensively summarize and review the landmark development and achievements from POI studies in China spanning 2011 to 2020, which aims to provide key insights from bench to bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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13
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Dai Y, Bo Y, Wang P, Xu X, Singh M, Jia L, Zhang S, Niu S, Cheng K, Liang J, Mu L, Geng K, Xia G, Wang C, Zhang Y, Zhang H. Asynchronous embryonic germ cell development leads to a heterogeneity of postnatal ovarian follicle activation and may influence the timing of puberty onset in mice. BMC Biol 2022; 20:109. [PMID: 35550124 PMCID: PMC9101839 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-022-01318-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ovarian follicles, which are the basic units of female reproduction, are composed of oocytes and surrounding somatic (pre) granulosa cells (GCs). A recent study revealed that signaling in somatic preGCs controlled the activation (initial recruitment) of follicles in the adult ovaries, but it is also known that there are two waves of follicle with age-related heterogeneity in their developmental dynamics in mammals. Although this heterogeneity was proposed to be crucial for female reproduction, our understanding of how it arises and its significance is still elusive. Results In the current study, by deleting the key secreted factor KIT ligand from preGCs and analyzing the follicle cell developmental dynamics, we revealed distinct patterns of activation and growth associated with the two waves of follicles in mouse ovary. Our results confirmed that activation of adult wave follicles is initiated by somatic preGCs and dependent on the KIT ligand. By contrast, activation of first wave follicles, which are awakened from germ cells before follicle formation, can occur in the absence of preGC-secreted KIT ligand in postnatal ovaries and appears to be oocyte-initiated. We also found that the asynchronous activity of phosphatidylinositol 3 kinases (PI3K) signaling and meiotic process in embryonic germ cells lead to the follicle heterogeneity in postnatal ovaries. In addition, we supplied evidence that the time sequence of embryonic germ cell development and its related first wave follicle growth are correlated to the time of puberty onset in females. Conclusion Taken together, our study provides evidence that asynchronous development of embryonic oocytes leads to the heterogeneity of postnatal ovarian follicle activation and development, and affects the timing of onset of puberty in females. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12915-022-01318-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanli Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Yingnan Bo
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Peike Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xueqiang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Meenakshi Singh
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg, SE-405 30, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Longzhong Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Shuo Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Shudong Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Kaixin Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jing Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Lu Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Kaiying Geng
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Guoliang Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.,Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, 750021, Ningxia, China
| | - Chao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
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14
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Huang QY, Chen SR, Chen JM, Shi QY, Lin S. Therapeutic options for premature ovarian insufficiency: an updated review. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:28. [PMID: 35120535 PMCID: PMC8815154 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00892-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a rare gynecological condition. This disease causes menstrual disturbances, infertility, and various health problems. Historically, hormone replacement therapy is the first-line treatment for this disorder. Women diagnosed with POI are left with limited therapeutic options. In order to remedy this situation, a new generation of therapeutic approaches, such as in vitro activation, mitochondrial activation technique, stem cell and exosomes therapy, biomaterials strategies, and platelet-rich plasma intra-ovarian infusion, is being developed. However, these emerging therapies are yet in the experimental stage and require precise design components to accelerate their conversion into clinical treatments. Thus, each medical practitioner bears responsibility for selecting suitable therapies for individual patients. In this article, we provide a timely analysis of the therapeutic strategies that are available for POI patients and discuss the prospects of POI therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao-Yi Huang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, No.34 North Zhongshan Road, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China
| | - Shao-Rong Chen
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, No.34 North Zhongshan Road, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China
| | - Jia-Ming Chen
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, No.34 North Zhongshan Road, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China
| | - Qi-Yang Shi
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, No.34 North Zhongshan Road, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China.
| | - Shu Lin
- Centre of Neurological and Metabolic Research, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, No.34 North Zhongshan Road, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China.
- Diabetes and Metabolism Division, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW, 2010, Australia.
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15
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Jiao W, Mi X, Yang Y, Liu R, Liu Q, Yan T, Chen ZJ, Qin Y, Zhao S. Mesenchymal stem cells combined with autocrosslinked hyaluronic acid improve mouse ovarian function by activating the PI3K-AKT pathway in a paracrine manner. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:49. [PMID: 35109928 PMCID: PMC8812195 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-02724-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Declining ovarian function in advance-aged women and in premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) patients seriously affects quality of life, and there is currently no effective treatment to rescue ovarian function in clinic. Stem cell transplantation is a promising therapeutic strategy for ovarian aging, but its clinical application is limited due to the low efficiency and unclear mechanism. Here, a novel combination of umbilical cord-mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) and autocrosslinked hyaluronic acid (HA) gel is explored to rescue ovarian reserve and fecundity in POI and naturally aging mice. Methods To investigate HA prolonged the survival after UC-MSCs transplantation, PCR and immunofluorescence were performed to track the cells on day 1, 3, 7 and 14 after transplantation. The effects of HA on UC-MSCs were analyzed by CCK8 assay, RNA-sequencing and 440 cytokine array. In vivo experiments were conducted to evaluate the therapeutic effects of UC-MSCs combined with HA transplantation in 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD)-induced POI mice and naturally aging mice model. Ovarian function was analyzed by ovarian morphology, follicle counts, estrous cycle, hormone levels and fertility ability. To investigate the mechanisms of stem cell therapy, conditioned medium was collected from UC-MSCs and fibroblast. Both in vitro ovarian culture model and 440 cytokine array were applied to assess the paracrine effect and determine the underlying mechanism. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) was identified as an effective factor and verified by HGF cytokine/neutralization antibody supplementation into ovarian culture system. Results HA not only prolongs the retention of UC-MSCs in the ovary, but also boosts their secretory function, and UC-MSCs promote follicular survival by activating the PI3K-AKT pathway through a paracrine mechanism both in vitro and in vivo. More importantly, HGF is identified as the key functional cytokine secreted by MSCs. Conclusions The results show that HA is an excellent cell scaffold to improve the treatment efficiency of UC-MSCs for ovarian aging under both physiological and pathological conditions, and the therapeutic mechanism is through activation of the PI3K-AKT pathway via HGF. These findings will facilitate the clinical application of MSCs transplantation for ovarian disorders. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-022-02724-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenlin Jiao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Xin Mi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Yajuan Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Ran Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Tao Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, 200135, China.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 200135, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingying Qin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Shidou Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China. .,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China. .,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China. .,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China. .,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
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16
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Mi X, Jiao W, Yang Y, Qin Y, Chen ZJ, Zhao S. HGF Secreted by Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Promotes Primordial Follicle Activation by Increasing the Activity of the PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathway. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2022; 18:1834-1850. [PMID: 35089464 PMCID: PMC9209380 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-022-10335-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Primordial follicle activation is fundamental for folliculogenesis and for the maintenance of fertility. An effective therapeutic strategy for patients with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is to promote the activation of residual primordial follicles. The secretome of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stromal cells (hUC-MSC-sec) contains several components that might promote the activation of primordial follicles. In the present study, we revealed that treatment with the hUC-MSC-sec significantly increased the proportion of activated primordial follicles in mouse ovaries both in vitro and in vivo. The activating effects of hUC-MSC-sec on primordial follicles were attributed to the activation of the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway by hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). While the effect of the hUC-MSC-sec was attenuated by the neutralizing antibodies against HGF, application of exogenous HGF alone also promoted the activation of primordial follicles. Furthermore, we demonstrated that HGF promoted the expression of KITL in granulosa cells by binding with the HGF receptor c-Met, thereby increasing the activity of the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway to activate primordial follicles. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that hUC-MSC-sec promotes primordial follicle activation through the functional component HGF to increase the PI3K-AKT signaling activity, highlighting the application of the hUC-MSC-sec or HGF for the treatment of POI patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Mi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Wenlin Jiao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Yajuan Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Yingying Qin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, 200135, China.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200135, China
| | - Shidou Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China. .,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China. .,Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China. .,Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China. .,National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
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Mei Q, Li H, Liu Y, Wang X, Xiang W. Advances in the study of CDC42 in the female reproductive system. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 26:16-24. [PMID: 34859585 PMCID: PMC8742232 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
CDC42 is a member of the Rho‐GTPase family and is involved in a variety of cellular functions including regulation of cell cycle progression, constitution of the actin backbone and membrane transport. In particular, CDC42 plays a key role in the establishment of polarity in female vertebrate oocytes, and essential to this major regulatory role is its local occupation of specific regions of the cell to ensure that the contractile ring is assembled at the right time and place to ensure proper gametogenesis. The multifactor controlled ‘inactivation‐activation’ process of CDC42 also allows it to play an important role in the multilevel signalling network, and the synergistic regulation of multiple genes ensures maximum precision during gametogenesis. The purpose of this paper is to review the role of CDC42 in the control of gametogenesis and to explore its related mechanisms, with the aim of further understanding the great research potential of CDC42 in female vertebrate germ cells and its future clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaojuan Mei
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Huiying Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaofei Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenpei Xiang
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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18
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Current Understandings of Core Pathways for the Activation of Mammalian Primordial Follicles. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061491. [PMID: 34199299 PMCID: PMC8231864 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian ovary has two main functions-producing mature oocytes for fertilization and secreting hormones for maintaining the ovarian endocrine functions. Both functions are vital for female reproduction. Primordial follicles are composed of flattened pre-granulosa cells and a primary oocyte, and activation of primordial follicles is the first step in follicular development and is the key factor in determining the reproductive capacity of females. The recent identification of the phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K)/phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) signaling pathway as the key controller for follicular activation has made the study of primordial follicle activation a hot research topic in the field of reproduction. This review systematically summarizes the roles of the PI3K/PTEN signaling pathway in primordial follicle activation and discusses how the pathway interacts with various other molecular networks to control follicular activation. Studies on the activation of primordial follicles have led to the development of methods for the in vitro activation of primordial follicles as a treatment for infertility in women with premature ovarian insufficiency or poor ovarian response, and these are also discussed along with some practical applications of our current knowledge of follicular activation.
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HDAC6 regulates primordial follicle activation through mTOR signaling pathway. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:559. [PMID: 34052832 PMCID: PMC8164630 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-03842-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Primordial follicle pool established perinatally is a non-renewable resource which determines the female fecundity in mammals. While the majority of primordial follicles in the primordial follicle pool maintain dormant state, only a few of them are activated into growing follicles in adults in each cycle. Excessive activation of the primordial follicles accelerates follicle pool consumption and leads to premature ovarian failure. Although previous studies including ours have emphasized the importance of keeping the balance between primordial follicle activation and dormancy via molecules within the primordial follicles, such as TGF-β, E-Cadherin, mTOR, and AKT through different mechanisms, the homeostasis regulatory mechanisms of primordial follicle activation remain unclear. Here, we reported that HDAC6 acts as a key negative regulator of mTOR in dormant primordial follicles. In the cytoplasm of both oocytes and granulosa cells of primordial follicles, HDAC6 expressed strong, however in those activated primordial follicles, its expression level is relatively weaker. Inhibition or knockdown of HDAC6 significantly promoted the activation of limited primordial follicles while the size of follicle pool was not affected profoundly in vitro. Importantly, the expression level of mTOR in the follicle and the activity of PI3K in the oocyte of the follicle were simultaneously up-regulated after inhibiting of HDAC6. The up-regulated mTOR leads to not only the growth and differentiation of primordial follicles granulosa cells (pfGCs) into granulosa cells (GCs), but the increased secretion of KITL in these somatic cells. As a result, inhibition of HDAC6 awaked the dormant primordial follicles of mice in vitro. In conclusion, HDAC6 may play an indispensable role in balancing the maintenance and activation of primordial follicles through mTOR signaling in mice. These findings shed new lights on uncovering the epigenetic factors involved physiology of sustaining female reproduction.
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Vo KCT, Kawamura K. In Vitro Activation Early Follicles: From the Basic Science to the Clinical Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073785. [PMID: 33917468 PMCID: PMC8038686 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Development of early follicles, especially the activation of primordial follicles, is strictly modulated by a network of signaling pathways. Recent advance in ovarian physiology has been allowed the development of several therapies to improve reproductive outcomes by manipulating early folliculogenesis. Among these, in vitro activation (IVA) has been recently developed to extend the possibility of achieving genetically related offspring for patients with premature ovarian insufficiency and ovarian dysfunction. This method was established based on basic science studies of the intraovarian signaling pathways: the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt and the Hippo signaling pathways. These two pathways were found to play crucial roles in folliculogenesis from the primordial follicle to the early antral follicle. Following the results of rodent experiments, IVA was implemented in clinical practice. There have been multiple recorded live births and ongoing pregnancies. Further investigations are essential to confirm the efficacy and safety of IVA before used widely in clinics. This review aimed to summarize the published literature on IVA and provide future perspectives for its improvement.
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21
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Huang WJ, Zhou X, Fu GB, Ding M, Wu HP, Zeng M, Zhang HD, Xu LY, Gao Y, Wang HY, Yan HX. The combined induction of liver progenitor cells and the suppression of stellate cells by small molecules reverts chronic hepatic dysfunction. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:5539-5552. [PMID: 33859762 PMCID: PMC8039967 DOI: 10.7150/thno.54457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: We developed a cocktail of soluble molecules mimicking the in vivo milieu supporting liver regeneration that could convert mature hepatocytes to expandable liver progenitor-like cells in vitro. This study aimed to induce endogenous liver progenitor cells by the administration of the soluble molecules to provide an alternative approach for the resolution of liver fibrosis. Methods: In vitro cultured hepatocyte-derived liver progenitor-like cells (HepLPCs) were transplanted into CCL4-treated mice to investigate the therapeutic effect against liver fibrosis. Next, we used HGF in combination with a cocktail of small molecules (Y-27632, A-83-01, and CHIR99021 (HACY)) to induce endogenous CD24+ liver progenitor cells and to inhibit the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) during CCL4-induced hepatic injury. RNA sequencing was performed to further clarify the features of HACY-induced CD24+ cells compared with CCL4-induced CD24+ cells and in vitro derived HepLPCs. Finally, we evaluated the expansion of HACY-induced CD24+ cells in human hepatocyte-spheroids from fibrotic liver tissues. Results: HepLPCs exhibited the capacity to alleviate liver fibrosis after transplantation into CCL4-treated mice. The in vivo administration of HACY not only induced the conversion of mature hepatocytes (MHs) to CD24+ progenitor cells but prevented the activation of HSCs, thus leading to enhanced improvement of liver fibrosis in CCL4-treated mice. Compared to CD24+ cells induced by CCL4 alone, HACY-induced CD24+ cells retained an enhanced level of hepatic function and could promote the restoration of liver function that exhibited comparable gene expression profiles with HepLPCs. CD24+ cells were also observed in human liver fibrotic tissues and were expanded in three-dimensional (3D) hepatic spheroids in the presence of HACY in vitro. Conclusions: Hepatocyte-derived liver progenitor-like cells are crucial for liver regeneration during chronic hepatic injuries. The administration of HACY, which allowed the induction of endogenous CD24+ progenitor cells and the inactivation of HSCs, exerts beneficial effects in the treatment of liver fibrosis by re-establishing a balance favoring liver regeneration while preventing fibrotic responses.
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Zhang Y, Zhou X, Zhu Y, Wang H, Xu J, Su Y. Current mechanisms of primordial follicle activation and new strategies for fertility preservation. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:6128515. [PMID: 33538812 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaab005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is characterized by symptoms caused by ovarian dysfunction in patients aged <40 years. It is associated with a shortened reproductive lifespan. The only effective treatment for patients who are eager to become pregnant is IVF/Embryo Transfer (ET) using oocytes donated by young women. However, the use of the technique is constrained by the limited supply of oocytes and ethical issues. Some patients with POI still have some residual follicles in the ovarian cortex, which are not regulated by gonadotropin. These follicles are dormant. Therefore, activating dormant primordial follicles (PFs) to obtain high-quality oocytes for assisted reproductive technology may bring new hope for patients with POI. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the factors related to PF activation, such as the intercellular signaling network, the internal microenvironment of the ovary and the environment of the organism. In addition, we discussed new strategies for fertility preservation, such as in vitro activation and stem cell transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University (Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital), Nanjing 210004, China
| | - Xiaomei Zhou
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University (Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital), Nanjing 210004, China
| | - Ye Zhu
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University (Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital), Nanjing 210004, China
| | - Hanbin Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University (Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital), Nanjing 210004, China
| | - Juan Xu
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University (Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital), Nanjing 210004, China
| | - Yiping Su
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University (Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital), Nanjing 210004, China
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