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Burutaran M, Fierro S, Negrín F, Minteguiaga M, Gil J, Olivera-Muzante J. Estrous, ovulation and reproductive responses of ewes synchronized with a long interval prostaglandin-based protocol for timed AI. Theriogenology 2024; 214:187-191. [PMID: 37897847 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.10.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
The aim was to characterize and assess the reproductive performance of a long interval prostaglandin (PG)-based protocol for timed AI (TAI) at different times. During breeding season three experiments were done involving 622 Merino ewes, 11 rams, and five androgenized wethers per 100 ewes. All ewes were estrus synchronized with two PG injections 15-day apart (PG15): Day -15 and 0 (Hour 0). Estrous distribution respect to Hour 0, estrous response and synchrony after Hour 0, and interval from Hour 0 to estrus detection (PG-estrus) was evaluated (Experiment I; n = 105 ewes). Interval from estrus detection to ovulation (estrus-ovulation) and from Hour 0 to ovulation (PG-ovulation) was determined (Experiment II; n = 12 ewes). Visual-physical score of cervical mucus at TAI, non-return to service to Day 23 (NRR23), fertility, prolificacy, and fecundity to Day 60 in four cervical fresh semen TAI groups was evaluated (Experiment III; n = 505 ewes; 107 nulliparous-398 multiparous). Three groups with single service at 56 (Control), 44 or 68, and one with double service at 44 and 68 ± 1.5 h after Hour 0 (PG15-56, PG15-44, PG15-68, and PG15-44/68 groups, respectively) were tested. Ninety-eight-point one percent of the ewes showed estrus from Hour -48 up to 84 respects to Hour 0. Twenty percent of them showed estrus from Hour -48 up to 0, and 78.1 % from Hour 12 up to 84 (Experiment I). The largest proportion of ewes in estrus was observed between Hour 36 and 60 (80.5 %). PG-estrus interval was 54.1 ± 10 h (means ± SD). Estrus-ovulation interval was 32.4 ± 5.8 h, and PG-ovulation interval was 77.0 ± 16.6 h (Experiment II). Ewe parity did not affect any of the reproductive variables (P > 0.05; Experiment III). There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) between Control and different groups in mucus score (2.18 ± 0.08, 2.02 ± 0.07, 2.14 ± 0.09, 2.25 ± 0.10), NRR23 (76.0, 71.9, 78.6, 79.4 %) or fertility (66.4, 64.1, 66.7, 73.8 %; PG15-56, PG15-44, PG15-68 or PG15-44/68 groups, respectively). Prolificacy in PG15-44 group was lower (1.07 ± 0.03; P < 0.05) than other groups (1.27 ± 0.05, 1.23 ± 0.05, 1.20 ± 0.04), and fecundity than PG15-44/68 group (0.84, 0.69, 0.82, 0.89), without differences among other groups (PG15-56, PG15-44, PG15-68 or PG15-44/68 groups, respectively). We concluded that any time between 56 and 68 h after PG15 protocol could be used to perform cervical TAI using fresh semen, without benefits of a double TAI service at 44 and 68 h.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Burutaran
- Laboratorio de Reproducción Animal "Dr. Alfredo Ferraris", Unidad de Sistemas Pecuarios y Gestión, Dpto. de Ciencias Veterinarias y Agrarias, CENUR Litoral Norte, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Estación Experimental M. A. Cassinoni, Ruta 3 km 363, PO Box 60000, Paysandú, Uruguay
| | - S Fierro
- Secretariado Uruguayo de la Lana (SUL), Área de Transferencia de Tecnología, Servando Gómez 2408, PO Box 12100, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - F Negrín
- Unidad de Ovinos, Lanas y Caprinos, Dpto. de Producción Animal y Salud en los Sistemas Productivos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Ruta 1 km 42.5, San José, Uruguay
| | - M Minteguiaga
- Laboratorio de Reproducción Animal "Dr. Alfredo Ferraris", Unidad de Sistemas Pecuarios y Gestión, Dpto. de Ciencias Veterinarias y Agrarias, CENUR Litoral Norte, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Estación Experimental M. A. Cassinoni, Ruta 3 km 363, PO Box 60000, Paysandú, Uruguay
| | - J Gil
- Laboratorio de Reproducción Animal "Dr. Alfredo Ferraris", Unidad de Sistemas Pecuarios y Gestión, Dpto. de Ciencias Veterinarias y Agrarias, CENUR Litoral Norte, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Estación Experimental M. A. Cassinoni, Ruta 3 km 363, PO Box 60000, Paysandú, Uruguay
| | - J Olivera-Muzante
- Laboratorio de Reproducción Animal "Dr. Alfredo Ferraris", Unidad de Sistemas Pecuarios y Gestión, Dpto. de Ciencias Veterinarias y Agrarias, CENUR Litoral Norte, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Estación Experimental M. A. Cassinoni, Ruta 3 km 363, PO Box 60000, Paysandú, Uruguay.
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Mahé C, Pranomphon T, Reynaud K, Laffont L, Meylheuc T, Schoen J, Mermillod P, Saint-Dizier M. Sperm-fluid-cell interplays in the bovine oviduct: glycosaminoglycans modulate sperm binding to the isthmic reservoir. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10311. [PMID: 37365288 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37469-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
When entering the oviduct for fertilisation, spermatozoa come into contact with the oviduct fluid (OF) and can bind to luminal epithelial cells in the isthmus to form a sperm reservoir. The objective of this study was to examine how the OF modulates sperm adhesion to the oviduct reservoir using an in vitro model of oviduct epithelial spheroids (OES). Bovine oviducts from a local slaughterhouse were used to collect OF and isthmic fragments for the in vitro incubation of OES. Compared to a non-capacitating control medium, the pre-ovulatory OF significantly decreased by 80-90% the density of spermatozoa bound to OES without affecting sperm motility, membrane integrity, or sperm-cilia interactions. This effect on sperm binding was reproduced with (1) OF from different cycle stages and anatomical regions of the oviduct; (2) OF fractions of more than 3 kDa; (3) modified OF in which proteins were denatured or digested and (4) heparan sulphate but not hyaluronic acid, two glycosaminoglycans present in the OF. In conclusion, the OF significantly decreased the number of spermatozoa that bind to oviduct epithelial cells without affecting sperm motility and this effect was due to macromolecules, including heparan sulphate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coline Mahé
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380, Nouzilly, France.
| | - Thanya Pranomphon
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380, Nouzilly, France
- School of Biotechnology, Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand
| | - Karine Reynaud
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Ludivine Laffont
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | | | - Jennifer Schoen
- Department of Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), Berlin, Germany
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380, Nouzilly, France
- Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Tours University, Tours, France
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3
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Mahé C, Lavigne R, Com E, Pineau C, Zlotkowska AM, Tsikis G, Mermillod P, Schoen J, Saint-Dizier M. The sperm-interacting proteome in the bovine isthmus and ampulla during the periovulatory period. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2023; 14:30. [PMID: 36797800 PMCID: PMC9936689 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-022-00811-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatozoa interact with oviduct secretions before fertilization in vivo but the molecular players of this dialog and underlying dynamics remain largely unknown. Our objectives were to identify an exhaustive list of sperm-interacting proteins (SIPs) in the bovine oviduct fluid and to evaluate the impact of the oviduct anatomical region (isthmus vs. ampulla) and time relative to ovulation (pre-ovulatory vs. post-ovulatory) on SIPs number and abundance. METHODS Pools of oviduct fluid (OF) from the pre-ovulatory ampulla, pre-ovulatory isthmus, post-ovulatory ampulla, and post-ovulatory isthmus in the side of ovulation were collected from the slaughterhouse. Frozen-thawed bull sperm were incubated with OF or phosphate-buffered saline (control) for 60 min at 38.5 °C. After protein extraction and digestion, sperm and OF samples were analyzed by nanoLC-MS/MS and label-free protein quantification. RESULTS A quantitative comparison between proteins identified in sperm and OF samples (2333 and 2471 proteins, respectively) allowed for the identification of 245 SIPs. The highest number (187) were found in the pre-ovulatory isthmus, i.e., time and place of the sperm reservoir. In total, 41 SIPs (17%) were differentially abundant between stages in a given region or between regions at a given stage and 76 SIPs (31%) were identified in only one region × stage condition. Functional analysis of SIPs predicted roles in cell response to stress, regulation of cell motility, fertilization, and early embryo development. CONCLUSION This study provides a comprehensive list of SIPs in the bovine oviduct and evidences dynamic spatio-temporal changes in sperm-oviduct interactions around ovulation time. Moreover, these data provide protein candidates to improve sperm conservation and in vitro fertilization media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coline Mahé
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380, Nouzilly, France.
| | - Régis Lavigne
- grid.410368.80000 0001 2191 9284Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement Et Travail) - UMR-S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France ,grid.410368.80000 0001 2191 9284Univ Rennes, CNRS, Inserm, Biosit UAR 3480 US_S 018, Protim Core Facility, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Emmanuelle Com
- grid.410368.80000 0001 2191 9284Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement Et Travail) - UMR-S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France ,grid.410368.80000 0001 2191 9284Univ Rennes, CNRS, Inserm, Biosit UAR 3480 US_S 018, Protim Core Facility, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Charles Pineau
- grid.410368.80000 0001 2191 9284Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement Et Travail) - UMR-S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France ,grid.410368.80000 0001 2191 9284Univ Rennes, CNRS, Inserm, Biosit UAR 3480 US_S 018, Protim Core Facility, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Aleksandra Maria Zlotkowska
- grid.418188.c0000 0000 9049 5051Institute of Reproductive Biology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology, FBN, Dummerstorf, Germany ,grid.418779.40000 0001 0708 0355Present Address: Department of Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), Berlin, Germany
| | - Guillaume Tsikis
- grid.464126.30000 0004 0385 4036CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- grid.464126.30000 0004 0385 4036CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Jennifer Schoen
- grid.418188.c0000 0000 9049 5051Institute of Reproductive Biology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology, FBN, Dummerstorf, Germany ,grid.418779.40000 0001 0708 0355Present Address: Department of Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), Berlin, Germany
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- grid.464126.30000 0004 0385 4036CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France
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Fernández-López P, Garriga J, Casas I, Yeste M, Bartumeus F. Predicting fertility from sperm motility landscapes. Commun Biol 2022; 5:1027. [PMID: 36171267 PMCID: PMC9519750 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03954-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the organisational principles of sperm motility has both evolutionary and applied impact. The emergence of computer aided systems in this field came with the promise of automated quantification and classification, potentially improving our understanding of the determinants of reproductive success. Yet, nowadays the relationship between sperm variability and fertility remains unclear. Here, we characterize pig sperm motility using t-SNE, an embedding method adequate to study behavioural variability. T-SNE reveals a hierarchical organization of sperm motility across ejaculates and individuals, enabling accurate fertility predictions by means of Bayesian logistic regression. Our results show that sperm motility features, like high-speed and straight-lined motion, correlate positively with fertility and are more relevant than other sources of variability. We propose the combined use of embedding methods with Bayesian inference frameworks in order to achieve a better understanding of the relationship between fertility and sperm motility in animals, including humans. Dimension reduction methods on porcine sperm motility landscapes reveal heterogeneity and hierarchy in sperm movement behavior and show high-speed and straight-lined motion as predictive features of fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pol Fernández-López
- Theoretical and Computational Ecology Group, Centre d'Estudis Avançats de Blanes (CEAB-CSIC), Cala Sant Francesc, 14, 17300, Blanes, Spain
| | - Joan Garriga
- Theoretical and Computational Ecology Group, Centre d'Estudis Avançats de Blanes (CEAB-CSIC), Cala Sant Francesc, 14, 17300, Blanes, Spain
| | - Isabel Casas
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, 17003, Girona, Spain.,Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, 17003, Girona, Spain
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, 17003, Girona, Spain.,Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, 17003, Girona, Spain.,Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats, ICREA, Passeig Lluís Companys, 23, 08010, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Frederic Bartumeus
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats, ICREA, Passeig Lluís Companys, 23, 08010, Barcelona, Spain. .,Centre de Recerca Ecològica i Aplicacions Forestals (CREAF), Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Spain.
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5
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Holt WV, Comizzoli P. Opportunities and Limitations for Reproductive Science in Species Conservation. Annu Rev Anim Biosci 2021; 10:491-511. [PMID: 34699258 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-animal-013120-030858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive science in the context of conservation biology is often understood solely in terms of breeding threatened species. Although technologies developed primarily for agriculture or biomedicine have a potentially important role in species conservation, their effectiveness is limited if we regard the main objective of animal conservation as helping to support populations rather than to breed a small number of individuals. The global threats facing wild species include the consequences of climate change, population growth, urbanization, atmospheric and water pollution, and the release of chemicals into the environment, to cite but a few. Reproductive sciences provide important and often unexpected windows into many of these consequences, and our aim here is both to demonstrate the breadth of reproductive science and the importance of basic knowledge and to suggest where some of the insights might be useful in mitigating the problems. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Animal Biosciences, Volume 10 is February 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- William V Holt
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Department of Oncology & Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom;
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, DC, USA;
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Saint-Dizier M, Mahé C, Reynaud K, Tsikis G, Mermillod P, Druart X. Sperm interactions with the female reproductive tract: A key for successful fertilization in mammals. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 516:110956. [PMID: 32712384 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Sperm migration through the female genital tract is not a quiet journey. Uterine contractions quickly operate a drastic selection, leading to a very restrictive number of sperm reaching the top of uterine horns and finally, provided the presence of key molecules on sperm, the oviduct, where fertilization takes place. During hours and sometimes days before fertilization, subpopulations of spermatozoa interact with dynamic and region-specific maternal components, including soluble proteins, extracellular vesicles and epithelial cells lining the lumen of the female tract. Interactions with uterine and oviductal cells play important roles for sperm survival as they modulate the maternal immune response and allow a transient storage before ovulation. The body of work reported here highlights the importance of sperm interactions with proteins originated from both the uterine and oviductal fluids, as well as hormonal signals around the time of ovulation for sperm acquisition of fertilizing competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Saint-Dizier
- INRAE, UMR PRC, 37380, Nouzilly, France; University of Tours, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, 37000, Tours, France.
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Rickard JP, de Graaf SP. Sperm surface changes and their consequences for sperm transit through the female reproductive tract. Theriogenology 2020; 150:96-105. [PMID: 32067798 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Spermatozoa are faced with considerable challenges during their passage through the female reproductive tract. Following deposition, they must deal with several physical and biochemical barriers as well as an aggressive immune defence system before they reach the site of fertilisation. While many factors are at play, the surface characteristics of spermatozoa are central to communication with the female and successful transit. The surface proteome of spermatozoa has been extensively studied and shown to vary considerably between species that deposit semen in the vagina (ram and bull) and uterus (boar and stallion), likely due to major differences in accessory sex gland anatomy. Comparing the surface characteristics of spermatozoa from these domestic species and how individual components may equip spermatozoa to interact with different features of the female tract could help understand how spermatozoa navigate from vagina or uterus to oviduct ampulla. Furthermore, we can begin to explain why use of high quality preserved spermatozoa in artificial insemination programs may still result in reduced fertility due to altered interaction with the female. In this review, we describe the sperm surface characteristics of the ram, bull, boar and stallion and compare changes as a result of mixture with seminal plasma and/or in vitro processing. The role of these seminal components in facilitating sperm survival and transit within the female reproductive tract is summarised, drawing attention to potential implications for applied reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- J P Rickard
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, NSW, 2006, Australia.
| | - S P de Graaf
- The University of Sydney, Faculty of Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, NSW, 2006, Australia
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Holt WV, Satake N. Making the most of sperm activation responses: experiments with boar spermatozoa and bicarbonate. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019. [PMID: 29514735 DOI: 10.1071/rd17476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Attempting to extract useful and reliable information about semen quality and its fertility potential remains a difficult exercise, partly because the sperm heterogeneity within samples often renders simple statistical analyses rather meaningless. In fact, a mean and standard deviation may reflect neither the very fast swimming activities of the most active cells nor the slow and sluggish activities of others. Herein we propose that the information value within semen samples can be maximised if current knowledge about sperm activation mechanisms is exploited before undertaking the measurements. We explain, using boar semen as an example, that estimating and defining relative sperm subpopulation sizes, after activation by bicarbonate, provides a means of quantifying sperm quality. Although such estimates may indeed be related to in vivo fertility, the general approach also suggests potential new avenues that could be exploited for the elaboration of novel in vitro tests for the characterisation of toxic environmental chemicals and, indeed, to reduce the number of animals used in such testing programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- William V Holt
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Level 4, Jessop Wing, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield S10 2SF, UK
| | - Nana Satake
- School of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Queensland, Gatton Campus, Gatton, Qld 4343, Australia
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9
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Dutta S, Aoki K, Doungkamchan K, Tiemeyer M, Bovin N, Miller DJ. Sulfated Lewis A trisaccharide on oviduct membrane glycoproteins binds bovine sperm and lengthens sperm lifespan. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:13445-13463. [PMID: 31337705 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.007695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Revised: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
A fraction of sperm deposited at mating or insemination reaches the oviduct isthmus, where sperm are retained and thereby form a reservoir. This reservoir delays capacitation, prevents polyspermy, selects a fertile population of sperm, and, foremost, increases sperm lifespan. The molecular interactions underlying the formation of a sperm reservoir are becoming clearer in mammals. Sperm lectins bind to oviductal glycans to form the reservoir. Herein, we found that the highest percentage of bovine sperm bound to the 3'-O-sulfated form of Lewis A (suLeA) trisaccharide and sialylated Lewis A and that fluoresceinated versions of each localized to receptors on the anterior head of the sperm. Following capacitation, binding to suLeA decreased significantly, a potential explanation for sperm release from the reservoir. MS and immunohistochemistry analyses indicated that suLeA motifs were present predominantly on O-linked glycans initiated by GalNAc residues, but no sialylated Lewis A was detected. To determine whether sperm binding to isolated suLeA in vitro could mimic in vivo sperm binding to oviduct cells and increase sperm longevity, we immobilized suLeA and incubated it with sperm. Using free-swimming sperm and sperm bound to immobilized laminin as controls, we observed that over 96 h, the viability of free-swimming sperm decreased to 10%, and that of sperm bound to immobilized laminin decreased to about 50%, whereas viability of sperm bound to immobilized suLeA was highest throughout the incubation and 60% at 96 h. These results indicate that bovine sperm binding to oviduct suLeA retains sperm for reservoir formation and extends sperm lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudipta Dutta
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801
| | - Kazuhiro Aoki
- Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602
| | - Kankanit Doungkamchan
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801
| | - Michael Tiemeyer
- Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602
| | - Nicolai Bovin
- Shemyakin Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - David J Miller
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801.
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11
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Gervasi MG, Visconti PE. Chang's meaning of capacitation: A molecular perspective. Mol Reprod Dev 2018; 83:860-874. [PMID: 27256723 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Dr. Min Chue Chang's contributions to the field of reproductive biology set the stage for the development of the contraceptive pill and in vitro fertilization. Throughout his publications, Dr. Chang was also able to transmit his view of the fertilization process in ways that organized research for newer generations of reproductive biologists. Particularly relevant for the achievement of in vitro fertilization in mammals was the discovery that the sperm required a period of residence in the female tract to become fertilization-competent; Dr. Chang and Dr. Austin, in Australia, independently reported this process, now known as sperm capacitation. This review discusses Dr. Chang's views on capacitation, and puts them in the context of recent advances in the understanding of the molecular basis of this process. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 83: 860-874, 2016 © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Gracia Gervasi
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, ISB, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts
| | - Pablo E Visconti
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, ISB, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts.
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12
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Pérez-Cerezales S, Ramos-Ibeas P, Acuña OS, Avilés M, Coy P, Rizos D, Gutiérrez-Adán A. The oviduct: from sperm selection to the epigenetic landscape of the embryo†. Biol Reprod 2017; 98:262-276. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Serafín Pérez-Cerezales
- Departmento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Priscila Ramos-Ibeas
- School of Agriculture, Food Science and Veterinary Medicine, College of Life Sciences, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Omar Salvador Acuña
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma de Sinaloa, Culiacán, Mexico
| | - Manuel Avilés
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca Murcia, Spain
| | - Pilar Coy
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca Murcia, Spain
- Physiology of Reproduction Group, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Murcia-Campus Mare Nostrum, Murcia, Spain
| | - Dimitrios Rizos
- Departmento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alfonso Gutiérrez-Adán
- Departmento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
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Feugang JM. Novel agents for sperm purification, sorting, and imaging. Mol Reprod Dev 2017; 84:832-841. [PMID: 28481043 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The stringent selection of viable spermatozoa ensures the transmission of high-quality genetic material to the egg during fertilization. Sperm heterogeneity within or between ejaculates and between males obliges varied post-collection handling of semen to assure satisfactory fertility rates. The current techniques used to assess sperm generally detect non-viable and non-fertilizing gametes in the ejaculate, but do not permit the investigation of semen for improved fertility outcomes. Advances in technology, however, have spurred the search for new approaches to enrich semen with high-quality spermatozoa and to track intra-uterine sperm migration. This review highlights the current and future methodologies used for sperm labeling, selection, tracking, and imaging, with specific emphasis on the recent influence of nanotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean M Feugang
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, Mississippi
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14
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Leemans B, Gadella BM, Stout TAE, Sostaric E, Schauwer CD, Nelis H, Hoogewijs M, Van Soom A. Combined albumin and bicarbonate induces head-to-head sperm agglutination which physically prevents equine sperm–oviduct binding. Reproduction 2016; 151:313-30. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-15-0471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2015] [Accepted: 01/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
In many species, sperm binding to oviduct epithelium is believed to be an essential step in generating a highly fertile capacitated sperm population primed for fertilization. In several mammalian species, this interaction is based on carbohydrate-lectin recognition.d-galactose has previously been characterized as a key molecule that facilitates sperm–oviduct binding in the horse. We used oviduct explant and oviduct apical plasma membrane (APM) assays to investigate the effects of various carbohydrates; glycosaminoglycans; lectins; S-S reductants; and the capacitating factors albumin, Ca2+and HCO3−on sperm–oviduct binding in the horse. Carbohydrate-specific lectin staining indicated thatN-acetylgalactosamine,N-acetylneuraminic acid (sialic acid) andd-mannose ord-glucose were the most abundant carbohydrates on equine oviduct epithelia, whereasd-galactose moieties were not detected. However, in a competitive binding assay, sperm–oviduct binding density was not influenced by any tested carbohydrates, glycosaminoglycans, lectins ord-penicillamine, nor did the glycosaminoglycans induce sperm tail-associated protein tyrosine phosphorylation. Furthermore,N-glycosidase F (PNGase) pretreatment of oviduct explants and APM did not alter sperm–oviduct binding density. By contrast, a combination of the sperm-capacitating factors albumin and HCO3−severely reduced (>10-fold) equine sperm–oviduct binding density by inducing rapid head-to-head agglutination, both of which events were independent of Ca2+and an elevated pH (7.9). Conversely, neither albumin and HCO3−nor any other capacitating factor could induce release of oviduct-bound sperm. In conclusion, a combination of albumin and HCO3−markedly induced sperm head-to-head agglutination which physically prevented stallion sperm to bind to oviduct epithelium.
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Desantis S, Accogli G, Silvestre F, Binetti F, Cox SN, Roscino M, Caira M, Lacalandra GM. Glycan profile of oviductal isthmus epithelium in normal and superovulated ewes. Theriogenology 2016; 85:1192-202. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2015] [Revised: 11/18/2015] [Accepted: 12/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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16
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Suarez SS. Mammalian sperm interactions with the female reproductive tract. Cell Tissue Res 2015; 363:185-194. [PMID: 26183721 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-015-2244-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2015] [Accepted: 06/18/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian female reproductive tract interacts with sperm in various ways in order to facilitate sperm migration to the egg while impeding migrations of pathogens into the tract, to keep sperm alive during the time between mating and ovulation, and to select the fittest sperm for fertilization. The two main types of interactions are physical and molecular. Physical interactions include the swimming responses of sperm to the microarchitecture of walls, to fluid flows, and to fluid viscoelasticity. When sperm encounter walls, they have a strong tendency to remain swimming along them. Sperm will also orient their swimming into gentle fluid flows. The female tract seems to use these tendencies of sperm to guide them to the site of fertilization. When sperm hyperactivate, they are better able to penetrate highly viscoelastic media, such as the cumulus matrix surrounding eggs. Molecular interactions include communications of sperm surface molecules with receptors on the epithelial lining of the tract. There is evidence that specific sperm surface molecules are required to enable sperm to pass through the uterotubal junction into the oviduct. When sperm reach the oviduct, most bind to the oviductal epithelium. This interaction holds sperm in a storage reservoir until ovulation and serves to maintain the fertilization competence of stored sperm. When sperm are released from the reservoir, they detach from and re-attach to the epithelium repeatedly while ascending to the site of fertilization. We are only beginning to understand the communications that may pass between sperm and epithelium during these interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan S Suarez
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA.
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17
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Stephens K, Thaler CD, Cardullo RA. Characterization of plasma membrane associated type II α-D-mannosidase and β-N-acetylglucosaminidase of Aquarius remigis sperm. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2015; 60:78-85. [PMID: 25801709 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2015.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2015] [Revised: 02/25/2015] [Accepted: 03/10/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
For successful fertilization to occur, molecules on the surface of male and female gametes must recognize each other in a complementary manner. In some organisms, sperm possess a glycosidase on the plasma membrane overlying the head while eggs have glycoproteins that are recognized by those glycosidases resulting in sperm-egg recognition. In this study, two glycosidases, mannosidase and β-N-acetylglucosaminidase, were identified and biochemically characterized in Aquarius remigis sperm. The mannosidase had a Km of 2.36 ± 0.19 mM, a Vmax of 27.49 ± 0.88 pmol/min and a Hill coefficient of 0.94 ± 0.18 at its optimal pH of 7.0. The mannosidase was extracted most efficiently with CHAPSO but was also efficiently extracted with sodium chloride. Mannosidase activity was effectively inhibited by swainsonine, but not by kifunesine, and was significantly reduced in the presence of Mn(2+) and Mg(2+), but not Zn(2+). N-acetylglucosaminidase had a Km of 0.093 ± 0.01 mM, a Vmax of 153.80 ± 2.97 pmol/min and a Hill coefficient of 0.96 ± 0.63 at its optimal pH of 7.0. N-acetylglucosaminidase was extracted most efficiently with potassium iodide but was also efficiently extracted with Triton X-100 and Zn(2+), but not Ca(2+), Co(2+), Mn(2+) or Mg(2+), significantly inhibited its activity. Taken together, these results indicate that the A. remigis sperm surface contains at least two glycosidases that may recognize complementary glycoconjugates on the surface of water strider eggs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly Stephens
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Catherine D Thaler
- Department of Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Richard A Cardullo
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA; Department of Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.
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18
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Aldarmahi A, Elliott S, Russell J, Fazeli A. Effects of spermatozoa-oviductal cell coincubation time and oviductal cell age on spermatozoa-oviduct interactions. Reprod Fertil Dev 2014; 26:358-65. [PMID: 23551866 DOI: 10.1071/rd12222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2012] [Accepted: 01/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The oviduct plays a crucial role in sperm storage, maintenance of sperm viability and sperm transport to the site of fertilisation. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of oviductal cell culture passage number, oviductal cell age and spermatozoa-oviduct coincubation times on gene expression in oviductal cells. Immortalised oviductal epithelial cells (OPEC) obtained from two different cell passages (36 and 57) were subcultured three times with and without spermatozoa for 24 h (control group). In a second study, OPEC were cocultured with spermatozoa for different time intervals (0, 4, 12 and 24 h). Expression of adrenomedullin (ADM), heat shock 70 kDa protein 8 (HSPA8) and prostaglandin E synthase (PGES) in OPEC was measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The expression of ADM and HSPA8 was decreased significantly in OPEC cells from Passage 57, particularly in the later subculture group. These effects on HSPA8, but not ADM, expression in OPEC were further altered after coculture with spermatozoa for 24 h. We also demonstrated that spermatozoa-oviduct coculture for 12 and 24 h resulted in significantly higher expression of ADM, HSPA8 and PGES in OPEC. Overall, the data suggest that the OPEC lose some of their properties as a result of oviductal cell aging and that there are spermatozoa-oviduct interactions leading to increased oviductal cell gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Aldarmahi
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Level 4, The Jessop Wing, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield S10 2SF, UK
| | - Sarah Elliott
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Level 4, The Jessop Wing, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield S10 2SF, UK
| | - Jean Russell
- Corporate and Computing Services, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S3 7RF, UK
| | - Alireza Fazeli
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Level 4, The Jessop Wing, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield S10 2SF, UK
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19
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Improving bovine semen diluents: insights from the male and female reproductive tracts, and the potential relevance of cervical mucins. Animal 2014; 8 Suppl 1:173-84. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731114000287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Abstract
SummaryThe oviduct is a dynamic organ in which final gamete maturation, fertilization and early embryo development take place. It is considered to be a sterile site; however the mechanism for sterility maintenance is still unknown. S100A7 is an anti-microbial peptide that has been reported in human reproductive tissues such as prostate, testicle, ovary, normal cervical epithelium and sperm. The current work reports the presence of S100A7 in the Fallopian tube and its localization at the apical surface of epithelial cells. For comparison, porcine S100A7 was used for antibody development and search for peptide in reproductive tissues. Although present in boar seminal vesicles and seminal plasma, S100A7 was not detected on female porcine organs. Also, in contrast with the human protein, porcine S100A7 did not show anti-microbial activity under the conditions tested. Phylogenetic analyses showed high divergence of porcine S100A7 from human, primate, bovine, ovine and equine sequences, being the murine sequence at a most distant branch. The differences in sequence homology, Escherichia coli-cidal activity, detectable presence and localization of S100A7 from human and pig, suggest that there are possible different functions in each organism.
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21
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Huang VW, Zhao W, Lee CL, Lee CYL, Lam KKW, Ko JKY, Yeung WSB, Ho PC, Chiu PCN. Cell membrane proteins from oviductal epithelial cell line protect human spermatozoa from oxidative damage. Fertil Steril 2013; 99:1444-1452.e3. [PMID: 23312221 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.11.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2012] [Revised: 11/10/2012] [Accepted: 11/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the potential protective action in vitro of oviductal epithelial cell membrane proteins against oxidative damage in human spermatozoa. DESIGN Prospective in vitro study. SETTING University research laboratory and infertility clinic. PATIENT(S) Semen from men attending the infertility clinic at the Queen Mary Hospital with normal semen parameters (World Health Organization, 2010). INTERVENTION(S) We studied the effect of oviductal epithelial cell membrane proteins on the sperm functions and endogenous antioxidant enzyme activities. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Sperm motility, lipid peroxidation, DNA fragmentation, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase activities. RESULT(S) Oviductal epithelial cell membrane proteins bind to the human spermatozoa and protect them from ROS-induced damages in terms of sperm motility, membrane integrity, DNA integrity, and intracellular ROS level. Spermatozoa-oviduct epithelial cell interaction also enhances the antioxidant defenses in spermatozoa. CONCLUSION(S) Our results demonstrated the protective effects of spermatozoon-oviductal epithelial cell interaction against oxidative stress in human spermatozoa. The results enhance our understanding of the protective mechanism of oviduct on sperm functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venus W Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, PR China
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22
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Abe H, Hoshi H. Bovine oviductal epithelial cells: their cell culture and applications in studies for reproductive biology. Cytotechnology 2012; 23:171-83. [PMID: 22358533 DOI: 10.1023/a:1007929826186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial cells of the mammalian oviduct play an important role in reproductive and developmental events that occur there. Oviductal epithelial cells from several mammalian species can be isolated and cultured in serum or serum-free medium in vitro and cell culture of bovine oviductal epithelial cells (BOEC) has been described by many investigators. Cultured BOEC show a wide variety of secretory activities and these secretory factors may influence early embryonic development or sperm function. Monolayer cultures of BOEC have been widely used for in vitro co-culture of bovine preimplantation embryos. The use of BOEC co-culture systems has improved embryonic development in nearly all the studies conducted. In addition, interaction of bovine spermatozoa with BOEC, in a similar manner to that observed for spermatozoa in vivo, induced specific changes in sperm capacitation and consequently improved the fertilizing capacity of bovine spermatozoa in vitro. Thus co-culture systems with BOEC may not only offer an excellent model for studying the mechanisms of capacitation and acrosome reaction of bovine spermatozoa but also provide a useful tool for the improvement of embryo development in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Abe
- Research Institute for the Functional Peptides, Shimojo, Yamagata, 990, Japan
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23
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Lloyd RE, Fazeli A, Watson PF, Holt WV. The oviducal protein, heat-shock 70-kDa protein 8, improves the long-term survival of ram spermatozoa during storage at 17°C in a commercial extender. Reprod Fertil Dev 2012; 24:543-9. [PMID: 22541542 DOI: 10.1071/rd11173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2011] [Accepted: 09/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Poor fertility rates are often observed when fresh ram semen stored in conventional extenders is used for cervical artificial insemination (AI). Heat-shock 70-kDa protein 8 (HSPA8), found within the oviduct, prolongs boar, ram and bull sperm survival at body temperatures in vitro. Here, we aimed to determine whether supplementing extenders (INRA-96 and RSD-1) with HSPA8 (4 µg mL⁻¹) would improve their performance in maintaining freshly collected ram sperm viability and sperm nuclear DNA integrity during storage over 48 h at 17°C. Sperm function was assessed at 1, 6, 24 and 48h and this experiment was repeated using 25 × 10⁶ and 800 × 10⁶ spermatozoa mL⁻¹. INRA96 supplemented with HSPA8 maintained sperm viability significantly better than INRA96 alone at both sperm concentrations. However, sperm nuclear DNA fragmentation (DF) increased significantly during storage using the higher sperm concentration, irrespective of the extender and the protein treatment used. Increasing levels of sperm nuclear DF over time could explain why poor fertility rates are often observed following cervical AI using stored ram semen. However, further research is required to ascertain whether supplementing the commercially available INRA96 extender with HSPA8 will improve fertility rates following cervical AI using stored ram semen.
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Affiliation(s)
- R E Lloyd
- Institute of Zoology, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY, UK.
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24
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Karre I, Meyer-Lindenberg A, Urhausen C, Beineke A, Meinecke B, Piechotta M, Beyerbach M, Günzel-Apel AR. Distribution and viability of spermatozoa in the canine female genital tract during post-ovulatory oocyte maturation. Acta Vet Scand 2012; 54:49. [PMID: 22932162 PMCID: PMC3526419 DOI: 10.1186/1751-0147-54-49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2012] [Accepted: 08/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unlike other domestic mammals, in which metaphase-II oocytes are ovulated, canine ovulation is characterized by the release of primary oocytes, which may take 12 to up to 36 hours. Further 60 hours are needed for maturation to secondary oocytes which then remain fertile for about 48 hours. Oestrus takes 7 to 10 days on average and may start as early as a week before ovulation. This together with the prolonged process of post-ovulatory oocyte maturation requires an according longevity of spermatozoa in the female genital tract in order to provide a population of fertile sperm when oocytes have matured to fertilizability. Therefore the distribution and viability of spermatozoa in the bitch genital tract was examined during post-ovulatory oocyte maturation. METHODS Thirteen beagle bitches were inseminated on the day of sonographically verified ovulation with pooled semen of two beagle dogs containing one billion progressively motile spermatozoa. Ovariohysterectomy was performed two days later (group 1, n = 6) and four days later (group 2, n = 7). The oviduct and uterine horn of one side were flushed separately and the flushing's were checked for the presence of gametes. The oviducts including the utero-tubal junction and the uterine horns, both the flushed and unflushed, were histologically examined for sperm distribution. RESULTS The total number of spermatozoa recovered by flushing was low and evaluation of viability was limited. Prophase-I oocytes were collected from oviduct flushing in group 1, whereas unfertilized metaphase-II oocytes were detected in group 2. From day 2 to day 4 after ovulation a significant decrease in the percentage of glands containing sperm (P<0.05) and a marked reduction of the mean sperm number in uterine horn glands were observed. A concomitant diminution of spermatozoa was indicated in the utero-tubal junction accompanied by a slight increase in sperm numbers in the mid oviduct. CONCLUSIONS Oocyte maturation to metaphase-II stage is accompanied by a continuous sperm detachment and elimination in the uterine horns. Entrance of spermatozoa into the caudal oviduct seems to be steadily controlled by the utero-tubal junction thus providing a selected sperm population to be shifted towards the site of fertilization when oocyte maturation is completed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inga Karre
- Small Animal Clinic, Veterinary University Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 15, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Andrea Meyer-Lindenberg
- Small Animal Clinic, Veterinary University Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 15, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Carola Urhausen
- Small Animal Clinic, Veterinary University Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 15, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Andreas Beineke
- Department of Pathology, Veterinary University Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Burkhard Meinecke
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Veterinary University Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 2, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marion Piechotta
- Clinic for Cattle, Veterinary University Hannover, Foundation, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173, Hannover, Germany
| | - Martin Beyerbach
- Department of Biometry, Epidemiology and Information Processing, Veterinary University Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 2, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Anne-Rose Günzel-Apel
- Small Animal Clinic, Veterinary University Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 15, 30559, Hannover, Germany
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25
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Gómez PN, Alvarez JG, Risopatrón J, Romero F, Sánchez R. Effect of tubal explants and their secretions on bovine spermatozoa: modulation of ROS production and DNA damage. Reprod Fertil Dev 2012; 24:871-6. [DOI: 10.1071/rd11180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2011] [Accepted: 01/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Although low levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a physiological role in maintaining sperm function, an increase in ROS generation above these levels may result in the induction of sperm membrane and DNA damage. The main objective of this study was to determine whether bovine oviducal explants (TU) and their conditioned media (CM) have a modulatory effect on the production of ROS, and consequently, on sperm DNA integrity. Thawed sperm were exposed to bovine TU and to CM obtained from the ampullar and isthmal regions after 4 and 12 h, and DNA damage and intracellular ROS production was assessed by TUNEL and DHE and SYTOX Green, respectively. Co-incubation of spermatozoa with oviducal explants from the ampullar region (TUa) for 4 h resulted in a statistically significant increase in the percentage of spermatozoa with DNA damage compared with controls (P = 0.0106), and this increase was positively correlated with ROS levels. Conversely, although the incubation of spermatozoa with explants and conditioned media from the isthmal region (TUi and CMi, respectively) for 12 h resulted in an increase of spermatozoa with DNA damage compared with controls (P < 0.0001), this increase was not correlated with ROS levels. In conclusion, significant oxidative stress may take place in the oviduct, particularly during short-term incubation, and this may be related to changes in the antioxidant factors present in the oviducal cells and secretions. A redox imbalance in pro-oxidants and antioxidants in the oviduct may lead to oxidative stress and sperm DNA damage.
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26
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Abstract
Motile cilia and flagella exhibit many waveforms as outputs of dynein activation sequences on the highly conserved axoneme. Motility change of sperm in the reproductive tract is difficult to study and remains an important area of investigation. Sperm typically execute a sinusoidal waveform. Increased viscosity in the medium induces somewhat unusual arc-line and helical waveforms in some sperm. However, whether the latter two waveforms occur in vivo is not known. Using green fluorescence protein imaging, we show that Drosophila sperm in the uterus move in circular foci via arc-line waves, predominantly in a tail-leading orientation. From the uterus, a small fraction of the sperm enters the seminal receptacle (SR) in parallel formations. After sperm storage and coincident with fertilization of the egg, the sperm exit the SR via head-leading helical waves. Consistent with the observed bidirectional movements, the sperm show the ability to propagate both base-to-tip and tip-to-base flagellar waves. Numerous studies have shown that sperm motility is regulated by intraflagellar calcium concentrations; in particular, the Pkd2 calcium channel has been shown to affect sperm storage. Our analyses here suggest that Pkd2 is required for the sperm to adopt the correct waveform and movement orientation during SR entry. A working model for the sperm's SR entry movement is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Yang
- Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Wayne State University, 259 Mack Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
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27
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Considerations of viscosity in the preliminaries to mammalian fertilisation. J Assist Reprod Genet 2011; 28:191-7. [PMID: 21234667 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-010-9531-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2010] [Accepted: 12/20/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Migration of spermatozoa in the female genital tract will be strongly influenced by the viscosity of the fluids encountered, yet little systematic analysis has been given to such a consideration. This essay reviews the series of milieux confronting a fertilising sperm during its progression to the oviduct ampulla. Two groups are discussed, first those in which ejaculation is into the vagina, second those in which semen enters the uterus during a protracted mating. Viscous glycoprotein secretions that accumulate in the oviduct isthmus of both groups before ovulation are highlighted, as is the environment generated in the ampulla by the post-ovulatory suspension of oocyte(s), cumulus cells and spermatozoa; follicular and peritoneal fluids may also be present. The viscosity of all female tract fluids responds to cyclical variations in temperature, and these exist within the oviduct near the time of ovulation. Gradations in viscosity influence the pattern and strength of sperm flagellar activity and the rate of forward movement. Measurements of sperm motility are currently made in a physiological medium of constant viscosity and temperature, thereby overlooking changes in the female genital tract. A more sophisticated approach might reveal an adequate fertilising potential in a proportion of putatively poor semen samples.
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28
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Coy P, Lloyd R, Romar R, Satake N, Matas C, Gadea J, Holt W. Effects of porcine pre-ovulatory oviductal fluid on boar sperm function. Theriogenology 2010; 74:632-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2009] [Revised: 02/05/2010] [Accepted: 03/07/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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29
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Apichela S, Jiménez-Díaz MA, Roldan-Olarte M, Valz-Gianinet JN, Miceli DC. In vivo and in vitro sperm interaction with oviductal epithelial cells of llama. Reprod Domest Anim 2010; 44:943-51. [PMID: 20468081 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2008.01125.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Sperm reservoirs in South American Camelids would be crucial for successful fertilization. Since ovulation occurs approximately 36 h after mating, the maintenance of the sperm viability in the oviduct waiting for the ovum is a critical reproductive event. Our study aimed at determining whether the isthmus or the utero tubal junction (UTJ) could function as a sperm reservoir in llama by means of in vivo and in vitro experiments. For the in vivo experiments, the oviducts of adult females with a dominant follicle bigger than 7 mm were examined for the presence of sperm at 6, 18, 24, 28 and 35 h after mating. The results using scanning and transmission electron microscopy showed ultrastructural differences between isthmus and UTJ with respect to (1) predominance of secretory cells in the UTJ and ciliated cells in the isthmus epithelium and (2) cytoplasmic bulbous projection of the secretory cells in the UTJ. Sperm adhered by a mucus-like substance were seen only in the UTJ at 6, 18, 24 and 28 h postmating. Lack of sperm adhered to oviductal mucosa was observed around ovulation (35 h). In vitro experiments demonstrated higher ability of UTJ epithelial cell explants with respect to isthmus explants to bind sperm in a co-cultured system. The anatomical features and the presence of a sperm bonding agent in the UTJ together with the in vitro differential binding of sperm to UTJ explants strongly suggest that both may be feasible mechanisms that facilitate sperm storage in this oviductal region in llama.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Apichela
- Instituto de Biología, Facultad de Bioquímica, Química y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de Tucumán, CONICET, Tucumán, Argentina
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Sperm head binding to epithelium of the oviduct isthmus is not an essential preliminary to mammalian fertilization - review. ZYGOTE 2010; 19:265-9. [PMID: 20663263 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199410000341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
In endeavouring to understand the nature of sperm-oviduct interactions in mammals, attention was focused on experimental models in which fertilization can occur without a preliminary phase of sperm head binding to the isthmus epithelium. The ovarian endocrine milieu imposed on the oviduct tissues plays an important role in the binding phenomenon, although less so after the time of ovulation. Nonetheless, a sperm suspension introduced into the peritoneal cavity or surgical insemination directly into the oviduct ampulla before ovulation can result in fertilization, as can a surgical model in which the isthmus has been resected and the remaining portions of the duct reanastomosed. Mating or artificial insemination after ovulation in pigs permits rapid sperm transport to the site of fertilization, and the frequency of polyspermic penetration increases with the post-ovulatory age of eggs.Strategies underlying sperm binding were considered, especially in terms of preovulatory sperm storage and suppression of full membranous maturation. These, in turn, raised the problem of how sperm binding in vitro to oviduct cells from prepuberal animals or to cells harvested during the luteal phase of the estrous cycle, or to cells from the ampulla or even the tracheal epithelium, can act to regulate sperm storage and maturation with precision. In an evolutionary perspective, preovulatory binding of diverse populations of cells to the endosalpinx may have developed as a form of fine tuning to assist in sperm selection, to synchronize completion of capacitation with the events of ovulation, and to promote monospermic fertilization by a controlled release of competent gametes.
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LEFEBVRE R, SAMPER JC. Interaction between stallion spermatozoa and oviductal epithelial cells in vitro. Equine Vet J 2010. [DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.1993.tb04822.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Talevi R, Gualtieri R. Molecules involved in sperm-oviduct adhesion and release. Theriogenology 2010; 73:796-801. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2009.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2009] [Accepted: 05/25/2009] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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New aspects of gamete transport, fertilization, and embryonic development in the oviduct gained by means of live cell imaging. Theriogenology 2010; 73:786-95. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2009.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2009] [Accepted: 10/22/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Holt W, Lloyd R. Sperm storage in the vertebrate female reproductive tract: How does it work so well? Theriogenology 2010; 73:713-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2009.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2009] [Accepted: 05/22/2009] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Abstract
A block to polyspermy is required for successful fertilisation and embryo survival in mammals. A higher incidence of polyspermy is observed during in vitro fertilisation (IVF) compared with the in vivo situation in several species. Two groups of mechanisms have traditionally been proposed as contributing to the block to polyspermy in mammals: oviduct-based mechanisms, avoiding a massive arrival of spermatozoa in the proximity of the oocyte, and egg-based mechanisms, including changes in the membrane and zona pellucida (ZP) in reaction to the fertilising sperm. Additionally, a mechanism has been described recently which involves modifications of the ZP in the oviduct before the oocyte interacts with spermatozoa, termed "pre-fertilisation zona pellucida hardening". This mechanism is mediated by the oviductal-specific glycoprotein (OVGP1) secreted by the oviductal epithelial cells around the time of ovulation, and is reinforced by heparin-like glycosaminoglycans (S-GAGs) present in oviductal fluid. Identification of the molecules contributing to the ZP modifications in the oviduct will improve our knowledge of the mechanisms of sperm-egg interaction and could help to increase the success of IVF systems in domestic animals and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Coy
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Spain.
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Boice ML, Duby RT, Robl JM. Rabbit sperm function after co-culture with uterine epithelial cells. Theriogenology 2009; 34:113-25. [PMID: 16726821 DOI: 10.1016/0093-691x(90)90582-e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/1989] [Accepted: 02/20/1990] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The effects of spermatozoa:uterine epithelial cell interactions in vitro on various sperm functions were studied using monolayers of uterine epithelial cells, endometrial stromal cells and fetal fibroblasts. Epithelial and stromal cells were isolated from uteri of rabbits in estrus, while fibroblasts were derived from 12-d-old rabbit fetuses. Twenty-nine to 31 h after culture initiation, washed, ejaculated rabbit spermatozoa were incubated with epithelial cells, uterine stromal or fetal fibroblastic cells, medium or conditioned medium. Sperm viability and loss of acrosome were measured after 10 to 20 h of incubation. Progressive sperm motility and fertilizing ability, which was assessed by an in vivo fertilization assay, were determined after 12 h co-culture. Sperm viability decreased throughout the culture period and was not affected by treatment. Sperm co-cultured with epithelial cells or incubated in medium had fewer acrosomes after 20 h than after 10 h. Fewer sperm co-cultured with stromal or fibroblastic cells lost their acrosomes. Progressive motility was positively affected by sperm-epithelium interaction as 39% of the co-cultured sperm were motile compared with 18% of the sperm incubated in media. In vivo fertilization experiments suggested that sperm incubated with epithelial cells or in medium had similar fertilizing ability. The co-culture of sperm with uterine cells provides an in vitro model to evaluate the effect of gamete-genital tract interaction on sperm function.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Boice
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
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Lloyd RE, Elliott RMA, Fazeli A, Watson PF, Holt WV. Effects of oviductal proteins, including heat shock 70 kDa protein 8, on survival of ram spermatozoa over 48 h in vitro. Reprod Fertil Dev 2009; 21:408-18. [PMID: 19261218 DOI: 10.1071/rd08204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2008] [Accepted: 10/20/2008] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Following insemination, ram spermatozoa are transported to the isthmus region of the oviduct where they bind to the oviductal epithelial cells (OEC), remaining viable for several hours. The aim of the present study was to begin to decipher which component(s) of the ewe oviduct actively participates in maintaining the viability of ram spermatozoa. A series of experiments was conducted to investigate whether: (1) soluble OEC apical plasma membrane proteins (sAPM) isolated from ewes prolong survival of ram spermatozoa over an extended (48 h) coincubation period at 39 degrees C; (2) a recombinant form of one of these oviductal proteins, namely heat shock 70 kDa protein 8 (HSPA8), prolongs survival of ram spermatozoa; and (3) pretreatment with HSPA8 antibody compromises the ability of sAPM to prolong the survival of ram spermatozoa. Both sAPM and recombinant HSPA8 had a beneficial effect on the viability of ram spermatozoa during coincubation, although both these effects were dose dependent. In contrast, pretreatment with HSPA8 antibody significantly negated the ability of sAPM to maintain the viability of ram spermatozoa. These findings suggest that HSPA8 is an active component of the ewe oviduct that participates in maintaining the viability of ram spermatozoa. This is a potentially valuable observation given that there is a great deal of room for improving existing diluents for storing fresh ram semen.
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Affiliation(s)
- R E Lloyd
- Institute of Zoology, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK.
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Teijeiro JM, Ignotz GG, Marini PE. Annexin A2 is involved in pig (Sus scrofa)sperm-oviduct interaction. Mol Reprod Dev 2009; 76:334-41. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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39
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HUNTER RHF. Ovarian programming of gamete progression and maturation in the female genital tract. Zool J Linn Soc 2008. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1096-3642.1989.tb02304.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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40
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Lloyd RE, Badia E, Fazeli A, Watson PF, Holt WV. Temporal dynamics of ram sperm binding and survival during 48-h coculture with oviducal epithelial cells. Reprod Fertil Dev 2008; 20:835-45. [DOI: 10.1071/rd08027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2008] [Accepted: 07/04/2008] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Following insemination, ram spermatozoa bind to oviducal epithelial cells (OEC) in vivo and remain viable for several hours before fertilisation. In the present study, we investigated whether OEC monolayers reproduce this effect in vitro, performing an analysis of ram sperm binding and survival over an extended (48 h) period at 39°C. We wanted to determine whether the reproductive cycle phase and/or oviducal region would influence ram sperm binding and survival in coculture with OEC and whether reproductive and non-reproductive epithelial cells bound and maintained the viability of ram spermatozoa equivalently. Oviducts were separated into groups based on their ovarian state (follicular or luteal) and then divided into two parts (isthmus and ampulla) for OEC isolation. Sheep kidney epithelial cells (Madin-Darby ovine kidney; MDOK) were purchased commercially. Reproductive cycle phase, but not oviducal region, affected sperm binding to OEC. Although more spermatozoa bound to luteal OEC than to follicular OEC at 1 h, at 24 h follicular OEC had bound more spermatozoa than luteal OEC. Generally, spermatozoa that were bound to OEC and MDOK had enhanced viability at each of the time points investigated (1, 6, 24 and 48 h), but the viability of the OEC-bound spermatozoa was greater than that of the MDOK-bound spermatozoa at 48 h. In conclusion, ram sperm–epithelial cell interactions are temporal, dynamic and depend on the origin of the epithelial cells.
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Teijeiro JM, Cabada MO, Marini PE. Sperm binding glycoprotein (SBG) produces calcium and bicarbonate dependent alteration of acrosome morphology and protein tyrosine phosphorylation on boar sperm. J Cell Biochem 2008; 103:1413-23. [PMID: 17786920 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.21524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The oviduct is a dynamic organ which modulates gamete physiology. Two subpopulations of sperm have been described in the oviduct of sows, a majority with normal appearance in the deep furrows and a minority, centrally located, and showing damaged membranes. Sperm-oviduct interaction provides the formation of a sperm storage and allows the selection of sperm with certain qualities. Pig (Sus scrofa) oviductal sperm binding glycoprotein (SBG) binds to sperm and exposes Gal beta1-3GalNAc. This disaccharide may be recognized by boar spermadhesin AQN1, which seems to be involved in sperm interaction with the oviduct. SBG is present at the apical surface of the epithelial cells that surround the lumen of the oviduct rather than at the bottom of the crypts. These characteristics imply it could be involved in sperm interaction with this organ. In this study, we evaluate the effect of SBG over boar sperm. We show that the presence of SBG produces alterations of the acrosome morphology of sperm only when they are incubated in capacitating conditions. SBG binds to the periacrosomal region of sperm undergoing capacitation. Its presence induces an increase on the tyrosine-phosphorylation of a polypeptide of apparent molecular mass 97 kDa, as occurs with a 95 kDa protein in other mammalian sperm upon acrosomic reaction. Altogether, these results suggest that SBG might be involved in sperm selection by alteration of the acrosome of sperm that have already begun the capacitation process when they arrive to the oviduct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan M Teijeiro
- División Biología del Desarrollo, Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (IBR-CONICET) Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina
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42
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Ignotz GG, Cho MY, Suarez SS. Annexins Are Candidate Oviductal Receptors for Bovine Sperm Surface Proteins and Thus May Serve to Hold Bovine Sperm in the Oviductal Reservoir1. Biol Reprod 2007; 77:906-13. [PMID: 17715429 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.107.062505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The sperm of eutherian mammals are held in a storage reservoir in the caudal segment of the oviduct by binding to the mucosal epithelium. The reservoir serves to maintain the fertility of sperm during storage and to reduce the incidence of polyspermic fertilization. Bovine sperm bind to the epithelium via seminal vesicle secretory proteins in the bovine seminal plasma protein (BSP) family, namely, PDC109 (BSPA1/A2), BSPA3, and BSP30K, which coat the sperm head. Our objective was to identify the receptors for bull sperm on the oviductal epithelium. Proteins extracted from apical plasma membrane preparations of bovine oviductal epithelium were subjected to affinity purification using purified BSPs bound to corresponding antibodies conjugated to Protein A agarose beads. Oviductal protein bands of approximately 34 and 36 kDa were eluted by EGTA from the beads and identified by tandem mass spectrometry as annexins (ANXAs) 1, 2, 4, and 5. Subsequently, antibodies to each of the ANXAs were found to inhibit sperm binding to explants of oviductal epithelium. Anti-ANXA antibodies labeled the apical surfaces and cilia of the mucosal epithelium in sections of bovine oviduct. Western blots confirmed the presence of ANXAs in apical plasma membranes. Because fucose had been determined to be a critical component of the oviductal receptor, the ANXAs were immunoprecipitated from solubilized apical plasma membranes and were probed with Lotus tetragonolobus lectin to verify the presence of fucose. Thus, these ANXAs are strong candidates for the sperm receptors on bovine oviductal epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- George G Ignotz
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
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43
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Xiangkun H, Li Z, Meiying L, Huijun B, Nainan H, Qiusheng C. Seasonal changes of sperm storage and correlative structures in male and female soft-shelled turtles, Trionyx sinensis. Anim Reprod Sci 2007; 108:435-45. [PMID: 17997057 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2007.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2006] [Revised: 09/17/2007] [Accepted: 09/28/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive ducts of male and female soft-shelled turtles, Trionyx sinensis were examined throughout the year (March, May, September, December) using brightfield and electron microscopes (TEM and SEM), to determine the location and histomorphological characteristics of sperm storage structures as well as their changes at different phases of the seasonal reproductive cycle. Sperm stored in the epididymis were also examined. In the male, spermatogenesis is initiated in spring (May), and then the mature sperm are released in autumn as an episodic event. Spermatogenesis is inactive in winter. However, in this species, the epididymis contains sperm throughout the entire year. Sperm observed in the epididymis are intact and some structures are uniquely different from other reptiles, and is characterized by 35-40 concentric mitochondria with a dense core in the centre. Many glycogen granules are observed in the cytoplasm of the midpiece. However, the epithelial cell type of epididymal duct change in different seasons. The cells are fully developed with a highly secretory activity in September. The materials secreted from the epithelium might have the function as nourishment for the stored sperm. Sperm storage structures in the form of tubules are observed in the wall of the isthmus of the oviduct in hibernating females but are absent in the groups of May and September. These tubules develop either by folding or fusion of the oviductal mucosal folds and are lined by both ciliated and secretory cells. These tubules might provide a microenvironment for the sperm to enable its long-term storage. After being separated 4 months (December-March) from the male, sperm are observed in the tubules of the isthmus of the oviduct. The unique character of the sperm combined with the special sperm storage structures enable the sperm to maintain fertility and activity during their storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Xiangkun
- College of Veterinary Medicine of Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, PR China
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Hao Y, Murphy CN, Spate L, Wax D, Zhong Z, Samuel M, Mathialagan N, Schatten H, Prather RS. Osteopontin improves in vitro development of porcine embryos and decreases apoptosis. Mol Reprod Dev 2007; 75:291-8. [PMID: 17874454 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
An optimal environment for fertilization and early embryonic development is provided by the mammalian oviduct and uterus. The secretory cells lining the lumen of the oviduct and uterus synthesize and secrete proteins that have been shown to interact with and influence the activities of gametes and embryos. Western blotting in this study demonstrated that a 50-kDa secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1) form was present in the uterus on Days 0, 3, and 5 in pregnant and nonbred gilts, and the concentration of SPP1 on Day 0 was higher than on Days 3 and 5 in pregnant gilts, but in nonbred gilts the concentration of SPP1 on Day 0 was higher than Day 3, but not Day 5. In addition, we show that addition of 0.1 microg/ml SPP1 to the culture medium after fertilization increased the percent cleaved (24 hr: 23.6 +/- 1.29(a) vs. 18.7 +/- 0.65(b) (2-cell %)), and the percent blastocyst (37.2 +/- 1.12(a) vs. 30.9 +/- 0.56(b)) derived from IVF (P < 0.05). In parthenogenetic-derived embryos the percent cleaved was increased due to SPP1 at 24 hr (24.0 +/- 1.59(a) vs. 19.7 +/- 1.59(b) (>2-cell %)), and at 48 hr (72.9+/- 2.99(a) vs. 63.3 +/- 2.99(b)), but not the percent blastocyst. By TUNEL assay, SPP1 decreased both apoptosis (7.9 +/- 0.04(a) vs. 13.1 +/- 0.02(b)) and the percent fragmentation (45.2 +/- 0.07(a) vs. 58.8 +/- 0.03(b)). We conclude that SPP1 can improve development in vitro possibly by reducing the rate of apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhong Hao
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
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45
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Hunter RHF. Sperm release from oviduct epithelial binding is controlled hormonally by peri-ovulatory graafian follicles. Mol Reprod Dev 2007; 75:167-74. [PMID: 17722022 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
To avoid inappropriate conclusions being drawn from the extensive use of in vitro preparations of sperm-oviduct epithelial binding, it is recalled that events in the genital tract of mammals are regulated by the gonads, primarily by their changing secretion of steroid hormones. Key observations from in vivo models are used to emphasise the dynamic interactions between viable sperm cells and the caudal (distal) portion of the oviduct isthmus, the site of the functional sperm reservoir. These include (1) pre-ovulatory arrest and epithelial binding of intact sperm cells and thereby suppression of completion of capacitation, (2) peri-ovulatory activation and release from binding of discrete sub-populations of competent spermatozoa, and (3) post-ovulatory liberation of large numbers of spermatozoa. These observations underline the influence of endocrine regulation of sperm binding and release by peri-ovulatory Graafian follicles, a point brought out by the enhanced sperm release prompted by diverse treatments with solutions of progesterone. In the light of this evidence, the suitability of in vitro preparations for clarifying physiological events should be questioned, especially if myosalpingeal catecholamines diffusing out of the autonomic nervous system contribute to sperm activation and/or release. None of this is to infer that sperm cells themselves are without influence on their epithelial binding reaction(s). Nor is it to suggest that in vitro models of sperm-oviduct binding are without relevance to the development of sperm evaluation technologies. However, pre-ovulatory sperm-epithelial binding and a regulated peri-ovulatory release should be seen as vital tactics in the overall strategy of achieving successful monospermic fertilisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- R H F Hunter
- Institute for Reproductive Medicine, Hannover Veterinary University, Bünteweg, Hannover, Germany
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46
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Suarez SS. Interactions of spermatozoa with the female reproductive tract: inspiration for assisted reproduction. Reprod Fertil Dev 2007; 19:103-10. [PMID: 17389139 DOI: 10.1071/rd06101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Artificial insemination with sexed semen, in vitro fertilisation and intracytoplasmic sperm injection have been used to reproduce animals, but often not as successfully as natural mating. Learning more about how spermatozoa normally interact with the female tract can provide inspiration for developing improvements in assisted reproduction. The present review focuses on Bos taurus, because more is known about this species than others. At coitus, bull spermatozoa are deposited into the anterior vagina, where they rapidly enter the cervix. Cervical mucus quickly filters out seminal plasma from spermatozoa, unlike most assisted reproduction protocols. Spermatozoa that reach the uterus may require certain cell surface proteins to swim through the uterotubal junction. Shortly after passing through the junction, most spermatozoa are trapped in a storage reservoir by binding to oviducal epithelium, in the case of cattle via bovine seminal plasma (BSP) proteins coating the sperm head. As ovulation approaches, spermatozoa capacitate and shed BSP proteins. This reduces sperm binding to the epithelium and releases them from storage. Motility hyperactivation assists spermatozoa in leaving the storage reservoir, swimming through oviducal mucus and the cumulus oophorus, and penetrating the oocyte zona pellucida. Chemotactically regulated switching between asymmetrical (i.e. hyperactivated) and symmetrical flagellar beating may also guide spermatozoa to the oocyte.
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Affiliation(s)
- S S Suarez
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, T5-002B Veterinary Research Tower, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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47
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Way AL. Isolation and culture of bovine oviductal epithelial cells for use in the anatomy and physiology laboratory and undergraduate research. ADVANCES IN PHYSIOLOGY EDUCATION 2006; 30:237-41. [PMID: 17108252 DOI: 10.1152/advan.00064.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
This article presents methods for the isolation and culture of epithelial cells from the bovine oviduct for use in both research and the teaching laboratory and provides examples of ways that an oviductal cell culture can be incorporated into an undergraduate research program. Cow reproductive tracts are readily available from area butchers, and the procedure for isolation of the epithelium is simple and inexpensive. The cells can be observed immediately after isolation or can be cultured for up to 72 h under simple conditions for observation over several days. For experimental use, epithelial cells are cultured in standard cell culture medium, where they continue to divide and actively secrete substances into the medium. The ease with which the tissue can be collected and cells isolated makes the oviductal epithelium ideal for use in both the teaching laboratory and research projects in which undergraduates serve as investigators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy L Way
- Lock Haven Univ. of Pennsylvania, Clearfield Campus, 201 University Dr., Clearfield, PA 16830, USA.
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Sostaric E, Georgiou AS, Wong CH, Watson PF, Holt WV, Fazeli A. Global Profiling of Surface Plasma Membrane Proteome of Oviductal Epithelial Cells. J Proteome Res 2006; 5:3029-37. [PMID: 17081054 DOI: 10.1021/pr060366w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In mammalian reproduction, many important events occur within the female reproductive tract, especially within the oviduct. These include transport and final maturation of the female and male gametes, fertilization, embryonic development, and transport of the embryo to the uterus. The plasma membrane molecules of oviductal epithelia that are in direct contact with gametes and embryo(s) and potentially mediate these processes are poorly characterized, and their function is poorly understood. Defining the oviductal cell surface proteome could provide a better understanding of the basis of reproductive processes taking place within the oviduct. We aimed to provide a detailed profile of the surface plasma membrane proteome of the oviductal epithelium by biotinylation of proteins at the cell surface, followed by highly specific purification of these proteins using avidin. This approach for enrichment of oviductal cell surface proteome was validated by immunohistochemistry, gel electrophoresis, and western blot analysis experiments. The enriched molecules were identified using two different technologies: (i) the combination of 2D gel electrophoresis with mass spectrometry and (ii) 1D gel electrophoresis with mass spectrometry (a modified multidimensional protein identification technology (MudPIT) technique). The number of proteins identified using the MudPIT approach was approximately 7 times the number of proteins identified by 2D gel electrophoresis using the same samples (40 versus 276, respectively). Some of the proteins found at the surface of oviductal cells had previously been reported as present in the oviduct and to have known functions in relation to reproductive processes. The other category of proteins that were highly represented in the oviductal surface proteome were various members of the family of heat-shock proteins. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive study to identify and characterize proteins at the surface of the epithelium of the mammalian oviduct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edita Sostaric
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, The Jessop Wing, Level 4, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield S10 2SF, United Kingdom
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50
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Holt WV, Elliott RMA, Fazeli A, Satake N, Watson PF. Validation of an experimental strategy for studying surface-exposed proteins involved in porcine sperm-oviduct contact interactions. Reprod Fertil Dev 2006; 17:683-92. [PMID: 16364221 DOI: 10.1071/rd05070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2005] [Accepted: 08/07/2005] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous experiments have shown that boar sperm survival in vitro is enhanced when co-incubated with a solubilised protein extract of porcine oviducal apical plasma membrane proteins. Here, we examine the hypothesis that the effects are mediated by direct oviduct-sperm contact and use in situ biotinylation of the oviducal epithelial surface to trace the surface-exposed biotinylated proteins through purification and solubilisation steps. We have also examined the effectiveness of mechanical scraping as a method of recovering oviducal epithelial proteins. We show that a subset of proteins originally exposed at the oviducal surface eventually bind to spermatozoa during incubation in vitro, but also show that a different protein subset is implicated if the sperm incubation is performed with proteins that had been biotinylated after (ex situ) extraction from the oviduct. Apical plasma membrane fractions biotinylated after purification contained many more biotinylated protein bands than preparations labelled before purification and multiple protein bands were eventually found to associate with spermatozoa. Although the evidence presented here supports the hypothesis that protein(s) anchored to the oviducal epithelium bind populations of spermatozoa directly and may have a role in the enhancement of sperm viability, it also shows that the choice of investigative technique exerts a major influence on experimental outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- W V Holt
- Institute of Zoology, Regent's Park, London, UK.
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