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Vanderkooi SC, Zhao Y, Lima PDA, Kan FWK. Recombinant human OVGP1 increases intracellular calcium and further potentiates the effects of progesterone on human sperm. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:2287-2301. [PMID: 35972586 PMCID: PMC9596666 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02591-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the effects of recombinant human oviduct–specific glycoprotein (rHuOVGP1) alone and in combination with progesterone (P4) on intracellular Ca2+ concentration [Ca2+]i and to investigate if rHuOVGP1 in combination with P4 can further enhance tyrosine phosphorylation (pY) of sperm proteins during human sperm capacitation. Methods Fluorometric flow cytometry was performed to examine the effects of rHuOVGP1 on [Ca2+]i in human sperm during capacitation. Confocal microscopy was used in conjunction with live cell imaging to analyze the influence of rHuOVGP1 and P4 on [Ca2+]i in the sperm tail and to examine the involvement of CatSper channels in their effect on [Ca2+]i. Western blot analysis was performed to assess the protein levels of p105, a major tyrosine-phosphorylated sperm protein. Results rHuOVGP1 increases [Ca2+]i in human sperm at the beginning of capacitation and further increases and sustains the level of [Ca2+]i in the sperm tail following the addition of P4. Inhibition of CatSper channels impedes the effects of rHuOVGP1 on [Ca2+]i in the sperm tail. P4 alone can increase pY of a major human sperm protein, p105, yet yields a further increase when used in combination with rHuOVGP1. Conclusion The present study revealed that rHuOVGP1 may work with P4 to upregulate [Ca2+]i at the beginning of capacitation in part through CatSper channels which, in turn, leads to the downstream event of pY of sperm proteins and enhancement of sperm capacitation. Supplementary information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10815-022-02591-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney C Vanderkooi
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Yuewen Zhao
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, K7L 3N6, Canada
- Yale Fertility Center, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale University, Orange, Connecticut, 06477, USA
| | - Patricia D A Lima
- Queen's CardioPulmonary Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Frederick W K Kan
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, K7L 3N6, Canada.
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2
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Gurunathan S, Kang MH, Song H, Kim NH, Kim JH. The role of extracellular vesicles in animal reproduction and diseases. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2022; 13:62. [PMID: 35681164 PMCID: PMC9185900 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-022-00715-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanosized membrane-enclosed compartments that serve as messengers in cell-to-cell communication, both in normal physiology and in pathological conditions. EVs can transfer functional proteins and genetic information to alter the phenotype and function of recipient cells, which undergo different changes that positively affect their structural and functional integrity. Biological fluids are enriched with several subpopulations of EVs, including exosomes, microvesicles (MVs), and apoptotic bodies carrying several cargoes, such as lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. EVs associated with the reproductive system are actively involved in the regulation of different physiological events, including gamete maturation, fertilization, and embryo and fetal development. EVs can influence follicle development, oocyte maturation, embryo production, and endometrial-conceptus communication. EVs loaded with cargoes are used to diagnose various diseases, including pregnancy disorders; however, these are dependent on the type of cell of origin and pathological characteristics. EV-derived microRNAs (miRNAs) and proteins in the placenta regulate inflammatory responses and trophoblast invasion through intercellular delivery in the placental microenvironment. This review presents evidence regarding the types of extracellular vesicles, and general aspects of isolation, purification, and characterization of EVs, particularly from various types of embryos. Further, we discuss EVs as mediators and messengers in reproductive biology, the effects of EVs on placentation and pregnancy disorders, the role of EVs in animal reproduction, in the male reproductive system, and mother and embryo cross-communication. In addition, we emphasize the role of microRNAs in embryo implantation and the role of EVs in reproductive and therapeutic medicine. Finally, we discuss the future perspectives of EVs in reproductive biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangiliyandi Gurunathan
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Min-Hee Kang
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Hyuk Song
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Nam Hyung Kim
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal models for Biomedicine, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, 529020, China
| | - Jin-Hoi Kim
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea.
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3
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Extracellular vesicles in mammalian reproduction: a review. ZYGOTE 2022; 30:440-463. [PMID: 35652626 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199422000090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Over the last decades, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been found to be implicated in a complex universal mechanism of communication between different cell types. EVs are nanostructures of lipid nature that have an exosomal or ectosomal biogenesis, responsible for the intercellular transport of proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, nucleic acids, ions, among other molecules. The content of EVs can vary due to various factors such as hormonal stimuli, non-physiological conditions, metabolic state, etc. Once EVs reach their target cell, they can modulate processes such as gene expression, metabolism, response to external factors, and can even be associated with the delivery of molecules involved in epigenetic inheritance processes in germ cells. In mammalian reproduction, EVs have been shown to play an important role, either in vivo or in vitro, modulating a variety of processes in sperm, oocytes and embryos, and in their respective environments. Moreover, EVs represent a biodegradable, harmless and specific vehicle, which makes them attractive allies to consider when improving assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). Therefore, the present review aims to describe the content of the main EVs involved in mammalian reproduction and how they can vary due to different factors, as well as to detail how EVs modulate, directly or indirectly, different molecular processes in gametes and embryos. In addition, we will highlight the mechanisms that remain to be elucidated. We will also propose new perspectives according to the characteristics of each particular EV to improve the different ARTs.
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4
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Zhao Y, Vanderkooi S, Kan FWK. The role of oviduct-specific glycoprotein (OVGP1) in modulating biological functions of gametes and embryos. Histochem Cell Biol 2022; 157:371-388. [PMID: 34993641 PMCID: PMC8979936 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-021-02065-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Diverse lines of evidence indicate that the mammalian oviduct makes important contributions to the complex process of reproduction other than being simply a conduit for the transport of gametes and embryos. The cumulative synthesis and transport of proteins secreted by oviductal secretory cells into the oviductal lumen create a microenvironment supporting important reproductive events, including sperm capacitation, fertilization, and early embryo development. Among the components that have been identified in the oviductal fluid is a family of glycosylated proteins known collectively as oviduct-specific glycoprotein (OVGP1) or oviductin. OVGP1 has been identified in several mammalian species, including humans. The present review summarizes the work carried out, in various mammalian species, by many research groups revealing the synthesis and secretion of OVGP1, its fate in the female reproductive tract upon secretion by the oviductal epithelium, and its role in modulating biological functions of gametes and embryos. The production and functions of recombinant human OVGP1 and recombinant OVGP1 of other mammalian species are also discussed. Some of the findings obtained with immunocytochemistry will be highlighted in the present review. It is hoped that the findings obtained from recent studies carried out with recombinant OVGP1 from various species will rekindle researchers’ interest in pursuing further the role of the oviductal microenvironment, of which OVGP1 is a major component, in contributing to the successful occurrence of early reproductive events, and the potential use of OVGP1 in improving the current assisted reproductive technology in alleviating infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuewen Zhao
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N, Canada
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale Fertility Center, Yale University, Orange, CT, 06477, USA
| | - Sydney Vanderkooi
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N, Canada
| | - Frederick W K Kan
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N, Canada.
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5
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Mahé C, Zlotkowska AM, Reynaud K, Tsikis G, Mermillod P, Druart X, Schoen J, Saint-Dizier M. Sperm migration, selection, survival, and fertilizing ability in the mammalian oviduct†. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:317-331. [PMID: 34057175 PMCID: PMC8335357 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro fertilization (IVF) gives rise to embryos in a number of mammalian species and is currently widely used for assisted reproduction in humans and for genetic purposes in cattle. However, the rate of polyspermy is generally higher in vitro than in vivo and IVF remains ineffective in some domestic species like pigs and horses, highlighting the importance of the female reproductive tract for gamete quality and fertilization. In this review, the way the female environment modulates sperm selective migration, survival, and acquisition of fertilizing ability in the oviduct is being considered under six aspects: (1) the utero-tubal junction that selects a sperm sub-population entering the oviduct; (2) the presence of sperm binding sites on luminal epithelial cells in the oviduct, which prolong sperm viability and plays a role in limiting polyspermic fertilization; (3) the contractions of the oviduct, which promote sperm migration toward the site of fertilization in the ampulla; (4) the regions of the oviduct, which play different roles in regulating sperm physiology and interactions with oviduct epithelial cells; (5) the time of ovulation, and (6) the steroid hormonal environment which regulates sperm release from the luminal epithelial cells and facilitates capacitation in a finely orchestrated manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coline Mahé
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
| | | | - Karine Reynaud
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
| | | | | | - Xavier Druart
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
| | - Jennifer Schoen
- Institute of Reproductive Biology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology, FBN, Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France.,Tours University, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Agrosciences Department, Tours, France
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6
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Alcântara-Neto AS, Fernandez-Rufete M, Corbin E, Tsikis G, Uzbekov R, Garanina AS, Coy P, Almiñana C, Mermillod P. Oviduct fluid extracellular vesicles regulate polyspermy during porcine in vitro fertilisation. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 32:409-418. [PMID: 31775998 DOI: 10.1071/rd19058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
High polyspermy is one of the major limitations of porcine invitro fertilisation (IVF). The addition of oviductal fluid (OF) during IVF reduces polyspermy without decreasing the fertilisation rate. Because extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been described as important OF components, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of porcine oviductal EVs (poEVs) on IVF efficiency compared with porcine OF (fresh and lyophilised). OF was collected from abattoir oviducts by phosphate-buffered saline flush, and poEVs were isolated by serial ultracentrifugation. Four IVF treatments were conducted: poEVs (0.2mgmL-1), OF (10%), lyophilized and reconstituted pure OF (LOF; 1%) and IVF without supplementation (control). Penetration, monospermy and IVF efficiency were evaluated. Transmission electron microscopy showed an EVs population primarily composed of exosomes (83%; 30-150nm). Supplementation with poEVs during IVF increased monospermy compared with control (44% vs 17%) while maintaining an acceptable penetration rate (61% vs 78% respectively) in a similar way to OF and LOF. Western blotting revealed poEVs proteins involved in early reproductive events, including zona pellucida hardening. In conclusion, our finding show that poEVs are key components of porcine OF and may play roles in porcine fertilisation and polyspermy regulation, suggesting that supplementation with poEVs is a reliable strategy to decrease porcine polyspermy and improve invitro embryo production outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- A S Alcântara-Neto
- Unité Mixte de Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - M Fernandez-Rufete
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Murcia, IMIB-Arixaca, Spain
| | - E Corbin
- Unité Mixte de Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - G Tsikis
- Unité Mixte de Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - R Uzbekov
- Laboratoire Biologie Cellulaire et Microscopie Electronique, Faculté de Médecine, Université François Rabelais, 37000 Tours, France; and Faculty of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Moscow State University, 119992, Leninskye gory 73, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - A S Garanina
- Laboratoire Biologie Cellulaire et Microscopie Electronique, Faculté de Médecine, Université François Rabelais, 37000 Tours, France; and Present address: National University of Science and Technology 'MISiS', 119049, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - P Coy
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Murcia, IMIB-Arixaca, Spain
| | - C Almiñana
- Unité Mixte de Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), 37380 Nouzilly, France; and Present address: University of Zurich, Genetics and Functional Genomics Group, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Farm Animals, VetSuisse Faculty, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - P Mermillod
- Unité Mixte de Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), 37380 Nouzilly, France; and Corresponding author:
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7
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González-Brusi L, Algarra B, Moros-Nicolás C, Izquierdo-Rico MJ, Avilés M, Jiménez-Movilla M. A Comparative View on the Oviductal Environment during the Periconception Period. Biomolecules 2020; 10:E1690. [PMID: 33348856 PMCID: PMC7766821 DOI: 10.3390/biom10121690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The oviduct plays important roles in reproductive events: sperm reservoir formation, final gamete maturation, fertilization and early embryo development. It is well known that the oviductal environment affects gametes and embryos and, ultimately, the health of offspring, so that in vivo embryos are better in terms of morphology, cryotolerance, pregnancy rates or epigenetic profile than those obtained in vitro. The deciphering of embryo-maternal interaction in the oviduct may provide a better understanding of the embryo needs during the periconception period to improve reproductive efficiency. Here, we perform a comparative analysis among species of oviductal gene expression related to embryonic development during its journey through the oviduct, as described to date. Cross-talk communication between the oviduct environment and embryo will be studied by analyses of the secreted or exosomal proteins of the oviduct and the presence of receptors in the membrane of the embryo blastomeres. Finally, we review the data that are available to date on the expression and characterization of the most abundant protein in the oviduct, oviductin (OVGP1), highlighting its fundamental role in fertilization and embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Manuel Avilés
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia, Campus Mare Nostrum and IMIB-Arrixaca, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.G.-B.); (B.A.); (C.M.-N.); (M.J.I.-R.)
| | - Maria Jiménez-Movilla
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia, Campus Mare Nostrum and IMIB-Arrixaca, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.G.-B.); (B.A.); (C.M.-N.); (M.J.I.-R.)
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8
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Qamar AY, Mahiddine FY, Bang S, Fang X, Shin ST, Kim MJ, Cho J. Extracellular Vesicle Mediated Crosstalk Between the Gametes, Conceptus, and Female Reproductive Tract. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:589117. [PMID: 33195625 PMCID: PMC7661581 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.589117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) mediated intracellular communication plays an imperative role in the proper completion of different physiological events. Most of the bio-fluids are enriched with several subpopulations of EVs including exosomes and microvesicles (MVs), with the capacity of transferring different functional molecules (lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids) to target cells. Recipient cells upon receiving the signal molecules undergo different changes that positively affect the structural and functional integrity of the cells. This article was aimed to highlight the role of EVs secreted by gametes, the female reproductive tract, and the growing conceptus in the successful completion of different reproductive events related to gestation. EVs associated with the reproductive system are actively involved in the regulation of different physiological events including gamete maturation, fertilization, and embryo and fetal development. In the reproductive system, EVs mediated intracellular communication is not unidirectional but is rather regulated through crosstalk between the reproductive tract and the growing conceptus. These vesicles are secreted from the ovary, oviductal epithelium, endometrium, developing embryo, and the placenta. The cargo inside these vesicles exerts pleiotropic effects on both maternal and embryonic environments. A better understanding of the EVs-mediated crosstalk will be helpful in the development of useful tools serving both the diagnostic as well as therapeutic needs related to female fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Yar Qamar
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Jhang, Sub-Campus University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Feriel Yasmine Mahiddine
- Department of Theriogenology and Biotechnology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seonggyu Bang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Xun Fang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Sang Tae Shin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Min Jung Kim
- Department of Theriogenology and Biotechnology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jongki Cho
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
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9
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Gegenfurtner K, Fröhlich T, Kösters M, Mermillod P, Locatelli Y, Fritz S, Salvetti P, Forde N, Lonergan P, Wolf E, Arnold GJ. Influence of metabolic status and genetic merit for fertility on proteomic composition of bovine oviduct fluid†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:893-905. [PMID: 31347661 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The oviduct plays a crucial role in fertilization and early embryo development providing the microenvironment for oocyte, spermatozoa, and early embryo. Since dairy cow fertility declined steadily over the last decades, reasons for early embryonic loss have gained increasing interest. Analyzing two animal models, this study aimed to investigate the impact of genetic predisposition for fertility and of metabolic stress on the protein composition of oviduct fluid. A metabolic model comprised maiden Holstein heifers and postpartum lactating (Lact) and non-lactating (Dry) cows, while a genetic model consisted of heifers from the Montbéliarde breed and Holstein heifers with low- and high-fertility index. In a holistic proteomic analysis of oviduct fluid from all groups using nano-liquid chromatography tandem-mass spectrometry analysis and label-free quantification, we were able to identify 1976 proteins, among which 143 showed abundance alterations in the pairwise comparisons within both models. Most differentially abundant proteins were revealed between low fertility Holstein and Montbéliarde (52) in the genetic model and between lactating and maiden Holstein (19) in the metabolic model, demonstrating a substantial effect of genetic predisposition for fertility and metabolic stress on the oviduct fluid proteome. Functional classification of affected proteins revealed actin binding, translation, and immune system processes as prominent gene ontology (GO) clusters. Notably, Actin-related protein 2/3 complex subunit 1B and the three immune system-related proteins SERPIND1 protein, immunoglobulin kappa locus protein, and Alpha-1-acid glycoprotein were affected in both models, suggesting that abundance changes of immune-related proteins in oviduct fluid play an important role for early embryonic loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Gegenfurtner
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Fröhlich
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Miwako Kösters
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- Institut National de Recherche Agronomique (INRA), UMR7247, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France
| | - Yann Locatelli
- Institut National de Recherche Agronomique (INRA), UMR7247, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France
| | | | - P Salvetti
- Allice, Station de Phénotypage, Nouzilly, France
| | - Niamh Forde
- Division of Reproduction and Early Development, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Patrick Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Eckhard Wolf
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.,Chair for Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Gene Center and Department of Veterinary Sciences, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Georg J Arnold
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
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10
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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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11
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Ferraz MDAMM, Carothers A, Dahal R, Noonan MJ, Songsasen N. Oviductal extracellular vesicles interact with the spermatozoon's head and mid-piece and improves its motility and fertilizing ability in the domestic cat. Sci Rep 2019; 9:9484. [PMID: 31263184 PMCID: PMC6603010 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-45857-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Fertilization and early embryo development are regulated by a unique maternal-gamete/embryo cross-talk within the oviduct. Recent studies have shown that extracellular vesicles (EVs) within the oviduct play important roles in mediating this developmental process. Here, we examined the influence of oviductal EVs on sperm function in the domestic cat. We demonstrated that (1) EVs are enriched in proteins related to energy metabolism, membrane modification, and reproductive function; (2) EVs bound and fused with the membranes of the acrosome and mid piece; and (3) incubating sperm with EVs improved motility, fertilizing capacity of cat spermatozoa and prevented acrosomal exocytosis in vitro. These findings indicated that oviductal EVs mediate sperm function and fertilization in the cat and provides new insights to improve sperm cryopreservation and in vitro fertilization in the domestic and wild felids and human.
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Affiliation(s)
- M de A M M Ferraz
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, Virginia, 22630, USA.
| | - A Carothers
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, Virginia, 22630, USA
| | - R Dahal
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, Virginia, 22630, USA
| | - M J Noonan
- Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, Virginia, 22630, USA
- Department of Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, 20742, USA
| | - N Songsasen
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, Virginia, 22630, USA
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12
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Zhao Y, Kan FWK. Human OVGP1 enhances tyrosine phosphorylation of proteins in the fibrous sheath involving AKAP3 and increases sperm-zona binding. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:1363-1377. [PMID: 31254143 PMCID: PMC6642236 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01502-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate if the recombinant human oviduct-specific glycoprotein (rHuOVGP1)–enhanced tyrosine-phosphorylated (pY) proteins are components of specific structure(s) of the sperm tail and if rHuOVGP1 binds to the oocyte and enhances sperm-egg binding. Methods Immunofluorescent staining and confocal microscopy were performed to examine the localization of pY proteins, outer dense fiber (ODF), and A-Kinase Associated Protein 3 (AKAP3) in human sperm during capacitation. Western blot and immunoprecipitation were employed to analyze protein levels of pY proteins and AKAP3. Immunofluorescent staining was performed to examine the binding of rHuOVGP1 to human oocytes. The effect of rHuOVGP1 on enhancing sperm-zona binding was examined using hemizona assay. Results pY proteins were detected mainly in the fibrous sheath (FS) surrounding the ODF with a relatively weak immunoreaction in the neck and mid-piece. Western blot analysis revealed co-migration of the pY 105 kDa protein with AKAP3, which was further confirmed by immunoprecipitation correlating immunofluorescent results of co-localization of pY proteins with AKAP3 in the sperm tail. rHuOVGP1 binds specifically to the zona pellucida (ZP) of human oocytes. Prior incubation of sperm and/or ZP with rHuOVGP1 increased sperm-egg binding. Conclusions The present study revealed that one of the major rHuOVGP1-enhanced pY proteins could be AKAP3 of the FS and that rHuOVGP1 is capable of binding to human ZP and its presence in the medium results in an increase in sperm-zona binding. Supplement of rHuOVGP1 in in vitro fertilization media could be beneficial for enhancement of the fertilizing ability of human sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuewen Zhao
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Frederick W K Kan
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, K7L 3N6, Canada.
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Abstract
SummarySpermatogenesis is a dynamic process that culminates in the production of mature spermatozoa in the seminiferous tubules of sexually mature animals. Although sperm leaving the testis are fully differentiated, they must further undergo two additional maturation steps before acquiring the capability to fertilize the egg. Such processes take place during the epididymal residency and transport in the seminal fluid during ejaculation and, after delivery into the female reproductive tract, during the journey aiming the encountering the egg in the oviduct. Throughout this trip, spermatozoa are exposed to different reproductive fluids whose molecular compositions regulate the progress towards obtaining a fertilized competent cell. This review summarizes the evidence obtained so far supporting the participation of male and female reproductive tract-derived proteins in the modulation of sperm fertilizing ability and discusses the mechanisms by which such regulation may be accomplished.
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14
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Sublethal sperm freezing damage: Manifestations and solutions. Theriogenology 2018; 118:172-181. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Revised: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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15
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Abstract
Millions or billions of sperm are deposited by artificial insemination or natural mating into the cow reproductive tract but only a few arrive at the site of fertilization and only one fertilizes an oocyte. The remarkable journey that successful sperm take to reach an oocyte is long and tortuous, and includes movement through viscous fluid, avoiding dead ends and hostile immune cells. The privileged collection of sperm that complete this journey must pass selection steps in the vagina, cervix, uterus, utero-tubal junction and oviduct. In many locations in the female reproductive tract, sperm interact with the epithelium and the luminal fluid, which can affect sperm motility and function. Sperm must also be tolerated by the immune system of the female for an adequate time to allow fertilization to occur. This review emphasizes literature about cattle but also includes work in other species that emphasizes critical broad concepts. Although all parts of the female reproductive tract are reviewed, particular attention is given to the sperm destination, the oviduct.
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16
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Lamy J, Nogues P, Combes-Soia L, Tsikis G, Labas V, Mermillod P, Druart X, Saint-Dizier M. Identification by proteomics of oviductal sperm-interacting proteins. Reproduction 2018. [PMID: 29540510 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The interactions between oviductal fluid (OF) proteins and spermatozoa play major roles in sperm selection, storage and capacitation before fertilization. However, only a few sperm-interacting proteins in the OF has been identified and very little is known about the regulation of sperm-oviduct interactions across the estrous cycle. Samples of bovine frozen-thawed sperm from three bulls were incubated with OF at pre-, post-ovulatory stages (Pre-/Post-ov) or luteal phase (LP) of the estrous cycle (7 mg/mL proteins, treated groups) or with a protein-free media (control). The proteomes of sperm cells were assessed by nanoLC-MS/MS and quantified by label-free methods. A total of 27 sperm-interacting proteins originating in the OF were identified. Among those, 14 were detected at all stages, eight at Post-ov and LP and five only at LP. The sperm-interacting proteins detected at all stages or at LP and Post-ov were on average more abundant at LP than at other stages (P < 0.05). At Pre-ov, OVGP1 was the most abundant sperm-interacting protein while at Post-ov, ACTB, HSP27, MYH9, MYH14 and OVGP1 were predominant. Different patterns of abundance of sperm-interacting proteins related to the stage were evidenced, which greatly differed from those previously reported in the bovine OF. In conclusion, this study highlights the important regulations of sperm-oviduct interactions across the estrous cycle and provides new protein candidates that may modulate sperm functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Lamy
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Perrine Nogues
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Lucie Combes-Soia
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France.,INRACIRE (Plate-forme de Chirurgie et d'Imagerie pour la Recherche et l'Enseignement), PAIB (Pôle d'Analyse et d'Imagerie des Biomolécules), Nouzilly, France
| | - Guillaume Tsikis
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Valérie Labas
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France.,INRACIRE (Plate-forme de Chirurgie et d'Imagerie pour la Recherche et l'Enseignement), PAIB (Pôle d'Analyse et d'Imagerie des Biomolécules), Nouzilly, France
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Xavier Druart
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France .,University of ToursFaculty of Sciences and Techniques, Tours, France
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17
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Profiling of proteins secreted in the bovine oviduct reveals diverse functions of this luminal microenvironment. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0188105. [PMID: 29155854 PMCID: PMC5695823 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0188105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The oviductal microenvironment is a site for key events that involve gamete maturation, fertilization and early embryo development. Secretions into the oviductal lumen by either the lining epithelium or by transudation of plasma constituents are known to contain elements conducive for reproductive success. Although previous studies have identified some of these factors involved in reproduction, knowledge of secreted proteins in the oviductal fluid remains rudimentary with limited definition of function even in extensively studied species like cattle. In this study, we used a shotgun proteomics approach followed by bioinformatics sequence prediction to identify secreted proteins present in the bovine oviductal fluid (ex vivo) and secretions from the bovine oviductal epithelial cells (in vitro). From a total of 2087 proteins identified, 266 proteins could be classified as secreted, 109 (41%) of which were common for both in vivo and in vitro conditions. Pathway analysis indicated different classes of proteins that included growth factors, metabolic regulators, immune modulators, enzymes, and extracellular matrix components. Functional analysis revealed mechanisms in the oviductal lumen linked to immune homeostasis, gamete maturation, fertilization and early embryo development. These results point to several novel components that work together with known elements mediating functional homeostasis, and highlight the diversity of machinery associated with oviductal physiology and early events in cattle fertility.
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18
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Shankar G, Uppangala S, Adiga SK, Willard B, Sagar BKC, Titus RSK, Marathe GK. Proteinaceous sperm motility inhibitory factor from the female Indian garden lizard Calotes versicolor. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 30:744-751. [PMID: 29136399 DOI: 10.1071/rd17292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2017] [Accepted: 09/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Female sperm storage is an intriguing adaptation exhibited by a wide array of both vertebrates and invertebrates. The mechanisms underlying female sperm storage have remained elusive. Using the Indian garden lizard Calotes versicolor as a model organism, we investigated the role of low and high molecular weight factors in this phenomenon. Previously, we demonstrated three distinct phases of the reproductive cycle in this animal with live, motile spermatozoa recovered from the uterovaginal region during the reproductive phase. In the present study, we analysed the uterovaginal contents using sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and identified an abundant protein band corresponding to ~55 kDa regardless of the phase of the reproductive cycle. Analysis of the purified protein by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry suggested a unique protein without any homology to the National Center for Biotechnology Information database. Exogenous addition of this protein to washed spermatozoa derived from the epididymis reversibly inhibited sperm motility in a concentration- and time-dependent manner, suggesting it plays a key role in sperm storage. These studies are likely to offer new avenues to unravel the secrets of female sperm storage seen across the animal taxa and may have novel applications not only in reproductive biology, but also in general cell storage and preserving endangered animal species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goutham Shankar
- Department of Studies in Biochemistry, University of Mysore, Manasagangotri, Mysuru 570006, Karnataka, India
| | - Shubhashree Uppangala
- Division of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal University, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Satish K Adiga
- Division of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal University, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Belinda Willard
- Research Core Services, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Bhadravathi K C Sagar
- Department of Neuropathology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (Institute of National Importance), Bengaluru 560029, Karnataka, India
| | - Ruth S K Titus
- Department of Zoology, St. Philomena's College, Bannimantap, Mysuru 570015, Karnataka, India
| | - Gopal K Marathe
- Department of Studies in Biochemistry, University of Mysore, Manasagangotri, Mysuru 570006, Karnataka, India
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19
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Almiñana C, Corbin E, Tsikis G, Alcântara-Neto AS, Labas V, Reynaud K, Galio L, Uzbekov R, Garanina AS, Druart X, Mermillod P. Oviduct extracellular vesicles protein content and their role during oviduct-embryo cross-talk. Reproduction 2017. [PMID: 28630101 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Successful pregnancy requires an appropriate communication between the mother and the embryo. Recently, exosomes and microvesicles, both membrane-bound extracellular vesicles (EVs) present in the oviduct fluid have been proposed as key modulators of this unique cross-talk. However, little is known about their content and their role during oviduct-embryo dialog. Given the known differences in secretions by in vivo and in vitro oviduct epithelial cells (OEC), we aimed at deciphering the oviduct EVs protein content from both sources. Moreover, we analyzed their functional effect on embryo development. Our study demonstrated for the first time the substantial differences between in vivo and in vitro oviduct EVs secretion/content. Mass spectrometry analysis identified 319 proteins in EVs, from which 186 were differentially expressed when in vivo and in vitro EVs were compared (P < 0.01). Interestingly, 97 were exclusively expressed in in vivo EVs, 47 were present only in in vitro and 175 were common. Functional analysis revealed key proteins involved in sperm-oocyte binding, fertilization and embryo development, some of them lacking in in vitro EVs. Moreover, we showed that in vitro-produced embryos were able to internalize in vivo EVs during culture with a functional effect in the embryo development. In vivo EVs increased blastocyst rate, extended embryo survival over time and improved embryo quality. Our study provides the first characterization of oviduct EVs, increasing our understanding of the role of oviduct EVs as modulators of gamete/embryo-oviduct interactions. Moreover, our results point them as promising tools to improve embryo development and survival under in vitro conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Almiñana
- UMR0085 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA)/CNRS/Univ. Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Emilie Corbin
- UMR0085 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA)/CNRS/Univ. Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Guillaume Tsikis
- UMR0085 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA)/CNRS/Univ. Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Agostinho S Alcântara-Neto
- UMR0085 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA)/CNRS/Univ. Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Valérie Labas
- UMR0085 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA)/CNRS/Univ. Tours, Nouzilly, France.,UFRCHU, Pôle d'Imagerie de la Plate-forme de Chirurgie et Imagerie pour la Recherche et l'Enseignement (CIRE), INRA Nouzilly, France
| | - Karine Reynaud
- UMR0085 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA)/CNRS/Univ. Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Laurent Galio
- UMR1198Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, INRA Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Rustem Uzbekov
- Laboratoire Biologie Cellulaire et Microscopie ElectroniqueFaculté de Médecine, Université François Rabelais, Tours, France.,Faculty of Bioengineering and BioinformaticsMoscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Anastasiia S Garanina
- Laboratoire Biologie Cellulaire et Microscopie ElectroniqueFaculté de Médecine, Université François Rabelais, Tours, France
| | - Xavier Druart
- UMR0085 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA)/CNRS/Univ. Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- UMR0085 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA)/CNRS/Univ. Tours, Nouzilly, France
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20
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Steinberger B, Yu H, Brodmann T, Milovanovic D, Reichart U, Besenfelder U, Artemenko K, Razzazi-Fazeli E, Brem G, Mayrhofer C. Semen modulated secretory activity of oviductal epithelial cells is linked to cellular proteostasis network remodeling: Proteomic insights into the early phase of interaction in the oviduct in vivo. J Proteomics 2017; 163:14-27. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2017.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Revised: 04/21/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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21
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Lamy J, Labas V, Harichaux G, Tsikis G, Mermillod P, Saint-Dizier M. Regulation of the bovine oviductal fluid proteome. Reproduction 2016; 152:629-644. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Our objective was to investigate the regulation of the proteome in the bovine oviductal fluid according to the stage of the oestrous cycle, to the side relative to ovulation and to local concentrations of steroid hormones. Luminal fluid samples from both oviducts were collected at four stages of the oestrous cycle: pre-ovulatory (Pre-ov), post-ovulatory (Post-ov), and mid- and late luteal phases from adult cyclic cows (18–25 cows/stage). The proteomes were assessed by nanoLC–MS/MS and quantified by label-free method. Totally, 482 proteins were identified including a limited number of proteins specific to one stage or one side. Proportions of differentially abundant proteins fluctuated from 10 to 24% between sides at one stage and from 4 to 20% among stages in a given side of ovulation. In oviductal fluids ipsilateral to ovulation, Annexin A1 was the most abundant protein at Pre-ov compared with Post-ov while numerous heat shock proteins were more abundant at Post-ov compared with Pre-ov. Among differentially abundant proteins, seven tended to be correlated with intra-oviductal concentrations of progesterone. A wide range of biological processes was evidenced for differentially abundant proteins, of which metabolic and cellular processes were predominant. This work identifies numerous new candidate proteins potentially interacting with the oocyte, spermatozoa and embryo to modulate fertilization and early embryo development.
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22
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Zhao Y, Yang X, Jia Z, Reid RL, Leclerc P, Kan FWK. Recombinant human oviductin regulates protein tyrosine phosphorylation and acrosome reaction. Reproduction 2016; 152:561-573. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 08/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian oviduct synthesizes and secretes a major glycoprotein known as oviductin (OVGP1), which has been shown to interact with gametes and early embryos. Here we report the use of recombinant DNA technology to produce, for the first time, the secretory form of human OVGP1 in HEK293 cells. HEK293 colonies stably expressing recombinant human OVGP1 (rHuOVGP1) were established by transfecting cells with an expression vector pCMV6-Entry constructed with OVGP1 cDNA. Large quantities of rHuOVGP1 were obtained from the stably transfected cells using the CELLSPIN cell cultivation system. A two-step purification system was carried out to yield rHuOVGP1 with a purity of >95%. Upon gel electrophoresis, purified rHuOVGP1 showed a single band corresponding to the 120–150 kDa size range of human OVGP1. Mass spectrometric analysis of the purified rHuOVGP1 revealed its identity as human oviductin. Immunofluorescence showed the binding of rHuOVGP1 to different regions of human sperm cell surfaces in various degrees of intensity. Prior treatment of sperm with 1% Triton X-100 altered the immunostaining pattern of rHuOVGP1 with an intense immunostaining over the equatorial segment and post-acrosomal region as well as along the length of the tail. Addition of rHuOVGP1 in the capacitating medium further enhanced tyrosine phosphorylation of sperm proteins in a time-dependent manner. After 4-h incubation in the presence of rHuOVGP1, the number of acrosome-reacted sperm induced by calcium ionophore significantly increased. The successful production of rHuOVGP1 can now facilitate the study of the role of human OVGP1 in fertilization and early embryo development.
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23
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Yousef MS, Marey MA, Hambruch N, Hayakawa H, Shimizu T, Hussien HA, Abdel-Razek ARK, Pfarrer C, Miyamoto A. Sperm Binding to Oviduct Epithelial Cells Enhances TGFB1 and IL10 Expressions in Epithelial Cells as Well as Neutrophils In Vitro: Prostaglandin E2 As a Main Regulator of Anti-Inflammatory Response in the Bovine Oviduct. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0162309. [PMID: 27662642 PMCID: PMC5035077 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0162309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2016] [Accepted: 08/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm are allogenic to the female genital tract; however, oviducts provide optimal conditions for survival and capacitation of these non-self cells until fertilization. Recently, we showed that oviduct-conditioned media and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) suppress sperm phagocytosis by polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) under physiological conditions. We hypothesized that sperm binding to bovine oviduct epithelial cells (BOECs) could change the local innate immunity via PGE2. As the first step to obtain basic information, sub-confluent BOEC monolayers were co-cultured with swim-up sperm for 2 h. BOECs with viable bound sperm were cultured for an additional 3, 6, 12, or 24 h. Then, we confirmed the impact of the sperm-BOEC binding on both BOECs and PMN gene expression. Immunohistochemistry revealed that BOECs strongly express TGFB1 and IL10 in the oviduct. Sperm binding to BOECs in culture induced the anti-inflammatory cytokines (TGFB1 and IL10) and PGE2 production by BOECs. Exogenous PGE2in vitro suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokine expression (TNF and IL1B) in BOECs. Moreover, pre-exposure of PMNs to BOEC-conditioned media suppressed the TNF expression, but the BOEC media co-cultured with sperm stimulated PMNs to express TGFB1 and IL10, with increasing PGE2 secretion. Of note, exogenous PGE2 led PMNs in vitro to decrease their TNF expression and increase anti-inflammatory cytokines expression. Our findings strongly suggest that BOECs provide an anti-inflammatory environment under physiological conditions and the sperm-BOEC binding further strengthens this milieu thus suppresses PMNs in the bovine oviduct. PGE2 is likely to drive this stable anti-inflammatory environment in the oviduct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Samy Yousef
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, 080–8555, Japan
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Ali Marey
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, 080–8555, Japan
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhur University, Behera, Egypt
| | - Nina Hambruch
- Department of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, D-30173, Germany
| | | | - Takashi Shimizu
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, 080–8555, Japan
| | - Hassan Ali Hussien
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | | | - Christiane Pfarrer
- Department of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, D-30173, Germany
| | - Akio Miyamoto
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, 080–8555, Japan
- * E-mail:
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Schrimpf R, Gottschalk M, Metzger J, Martinsson G, Sieme H, Distl O. Screening of whole genome sequences identified high-impact variants for stallion fertility. BMC Genomics 2016; 17:288. [PMID: 27079378 PMCID: PMC4832559 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-016-2608-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2015] [Accepted: 03/30/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Stallion fertility is an economically important trait due to the increase of artificial insemination in horses. The availability of whole genome sequence data facilitates identification of rare high-impact variants contributing to stallion fertility. The aim of our study was to genotype rare high-impact variants retrieved from next-generation sequencing (NGS)-data of 11 horses in order to unravel harmful genetic variants in large samples of stallions. Methods Gene ontology (GO) terms and search results from public databases were used to obtain a comprehensive list of human und mice genes predicted to participate in the regulation of male reproduction. The corresponding equine orthologous genes were searched in whole genome sequence data of seven stallions and four mares and filtered for high-impact genetic variants using SnpEFF, SIFT and Polyphen 2 software. All genetic variants with the missing homozygous mutant genotype were genotyped on 337 fertile stallions of 19 breeds using KASP genotyping assays or PCR-RFLP. Mixed linear model analysis was employed for an association analysis with de-regressed estimated breeding values of the paternal component of the pregnancy rate per estrus (EBV-PAT). Results We screened next generation sequenced data of whole genomes from 11 horses for equine genetic variants in 1194 human and mice genes involved in male fertility and linked through common gene ontology (GO) with male reproductive processes. Variants were filtered for high-impact on protein structure and validated through SIFT and Polyphen 2. Only those genetic variants were followed up when the homozygote mutant genotype was missing in the detection sample comprising 11 horses. After this filtering process, 17 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) were left. These SNPs were genotyped in 337 fertile stallions of 19 breeds using KASP genotyping assays or PCR-RFLP. An association analysis in 216 Hanoverian stallions revealed a significant association of the splice-site disruption variant g.37455302G>A in NOTCH1 with the de-regressed estimated breeding values of the paternal component of the pregnancy rate per estrus (EBV-PAT). For 9 high-impact variants within the genes CFTR, OVGP1, FBXO43, TSSK6, PKD1, FOXP1, TCP11, SPATA31E1 and NOTCH1 (g.37453246G>C) absence of the homozygous mutant genotype in the validation sample of all 337 fertile stallions was obvious. Therefore, these variants were considered as potentially deleterious factors for stallion fertility. Conclusions In conclusion, this study revealed 17 genetic variants with a predicted high damaging effect on protein structure and missing homozygous mutant genotype. The g.37455302G>A NOTCH1 variant was identified as a significant stallion fertility locus in Hanoverian stallions and further 9 candidate fertility loci with missing homozygous mutant genotypes were validated in a panel including 19 horse breeds. To our knowledge this is the first study in horses using next generation sequencing data to uncover strong candidate factors for stallion fertility. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12864-016-2608-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahel Schrimpf
- Institute for Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17p, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Maren Gottschalk
- Institute for Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17p, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Julia Metzger
- Institute for Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17p, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Gunilla Martinsson
- State Stud Celle of Lower Saxony, Spörckenstraße 10, 29221, Celle, Germany
| | - Harald Sieme
- Clinic for Horses, Unit for Reproduction Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 15, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ottmar Distl
- Institute for Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 17p, 30559, Hannover, Germany.
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Zumoffen CM, Massa E, Caille AM, Munuce MJ, Ghersevich SA. Effects of lactoferrin, a protein present in the female reproductive tract, on parameters of human sperm capacitation and gamete interaction. Andrology 2015; 3:1068-75. [PMID: 26445132 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2015] [Revised: 07/10/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In a recent study, lactoferrin (LF) was detected in human oviductal secretion. The protein was able to bind to oocytes and sperm, and modulated gamete interaction. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of LF on parameters related to human sperm capacitation and sperm-zona pellucida interaction. Semen samples were obtained from healthy normozoospermic donors (n = 7). Human follicular fluids and oocytes were collected from patients undergoing in vitro fertilization. Motile sperm obtained by swim-up were incubated for 6 or 22 h under capacitating conditions with LF (0-100 μg/mL). After incubations, viability, motility, presence of α-d-mannose receptors (using a fluorescent probe on mannose coupled to bovine serum albumin), spontaneous and induced acrosome reaction (assessed with Pisum sativum agglutinin conjugated to fluorescein isothiocyanate), and tyrosine phosphorylation of sperm proteins were evaluated. Sperm-zona pellucida interaction in the presence of LF was investigated using the hemizone assay. The presence of LF did not affect sperm viability or motility, but caused a dose-dependent significant decrease in sperm α-d-mannose-binding sites, and the effect was already significant with the lowest concentration of the protein used after 22 h incubation. Dose-dependent significant increases in both induced acrosome reaction and tyrosine phosphorylation of sperm proteins were observed in the presence of LF. The present data indicate that LF modulates parameters of sperm function. The inhibition of gamete interaction by LF could be partially explained by the decrease in sperm d-mannose-binding sites. The presence of the LF promoted sperm capacitation in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Zumoffen
- Area of Clinical Biochemistry, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Rosario, Argentina
| | - E Massa
- Area of Clinical Biochemistry, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Rosario, Argentina
| | - A M Caille
- Area of Clinical Biochemistry, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Rosario, Argentina
| | - M J Munuce
- Area of Clinical Biochemistry, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Rosario, Argentina
| | - S A Ghersevich
- Area of Clinical Biochemistry, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Rosario, Argentina
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Miller DJ. Regulation of Sperm Function by Oviduct Fluid and the Epithelium: Insight into the Role of Glycans. Reprod Domest Anim 2015; 50 Suppl 2:31-9. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2015] [Accepted: 06/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- DJ Miller
- Department of Animal Sciences; University of Illinois; Urbana-Champaign IL USA
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Desantis S, Accogli G, Silvestre F, Binetti F, Caira M, Lacalandra GM. Modifications of carbohydrate residues in the sheep oviductal ampulla after superovulation. Theriogenology 2015; 83:943-52. [PMID: 25601578 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.11.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2014] [Revised: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 11/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Epithelium of oviductal ampulla was studied in normal and in superovulated sheep using morphologic analysis and lectin glycohistochemistry. The lining epithelium consisted of two types of cells, ciliated and nonciliated cells. Unlike superovulated samples, the nonciliated cells from control ewes showed apical protrusions indicating an apocrine secretory activity. The ciliated cells showed lectin-binding sites mainly at the level of the cilia which bound all the used lectins except Peanut agglutinin, suggesting the lack of glycans terminating with Galβ1,3GalNAc. In superovulated specimens, the ciliated cells with high mannosylated glycans Concanavalin A (Con A) and GlcNAc and GalNac termini Griffonia simplicifolia agglutinin II (GSA II) and Dolicurus biflorus agglutinin (DBA) decreased. The luminal surface of nonciliated cells showed all investigated sugar residues in controls, whereas it was lacking in high mannosylated (Con A) and terminal GalNAcα1,3(LFucα1,2)Galβ1,3/4GlcNAcβ1 sequence (DBA) in superovulated ewes. Apical protrusions from control ampullae nonciliated cells showed glycans containing mannose, GlcNac, GalNAc, galactose, and α2,3-linked sialic acid (Con A, KOH-sialidase- Wheat germ agglutnin [WGA], GSA II, SBA, Griffonia simplicifolia agglutinin-isolectin B4 [GSA I-B4], Maackia amurensis agglutinin II [MAL II]). The supranuclear cytoplasm of nonciliated cells expressed terminal GlcNAc (GSA II) in all specimens, also O-linked glycans (mucin-type glycans) with GalNAc and sialic acid termini (Helix pomatia agglutinin [HPA] and MAL II) in control animals, and also N-linked glycans with fucose, galactose, lactosamine, and α2,3-linked sialic acid termini (Ulex europaeus agglutinin I [UEA I], GSA I-B4, Ricinus communis agglutinin120 [RCA120], and Sambucus nigra agglutinin [SNA] ) in superovulated ewes. These results report for the first time that the superovulation treatment affects the secretory activity and the glycan pattern of the epithelium lining the sheep oviductal ampulla.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Desantis
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (DETO), Veterinary Clinics and Animal Productions Section, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy.
| | - G Accogli
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (DETO), Veterinary Clinics and Animal Productions Section, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - F Silvestre
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (DETO), Veterinary Clinics and Animal Productions Section, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - F Binetti
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (DETO), Veterinary Clinics and Animal Productions Section, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - M Caira
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (DETO), Veterinary Clinics and Animal Productions Section, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - G M Lacalandra
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation (DETO), Veterinary Clinics and Animal Productions Section, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
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Abstract
Experimental evidence from the last 30 years supports the fact that the oviduct is involved in the modulation of the reproductive process in eutherian mammals. Oviductal secretion contains molecules that contribute to regulation of gamete function, gamete interaction, and the early stages of embryo development. The oviductal environment would act as a sperm reservoir, maintaining sperm viability, and modulating the subpopulation of spermatozoa that initiates the capacitation process. It could also contribute to prevent the premature acrosome reaction and to reduce polyspermy. Many studies have reported the beneficial effects of the oviductal environment on fertilization and on the first stages of embryo development. Some oviductal factors have been identified in different mammalian species. The effects of oviductal secretion on the reproductive process could be thought to result from the dynamic combined action (inhibitory or stimulatory) of multiple factors present in the oviductal lumen at different stages of the ovulatory cycle and in the presence of gametes or embryos. It could be hypothesized that the absence of a given molecule would not affect fertility as its action could be compensated by another factor with similar functions. However, any alteration in this balance could affect certain events of the reproductive process and could perhaps impair fertility. Thus, the complexity of the reproductive process warrants a continuous research effort to unveil the mechanisms and factors behind its regulation in the oviductal microenvironment.
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Juárez-Mosqueda ML, Anzaldúa Arce SR, Palma Lara I, García Dalmán C, Cornejo Cortés MA, Córdova Izquierdo A, Villaseñor Gaona H, Trujillo Ortega ME. Oestrus Synchronization Treatment Induces Histomorphological Changes on the Uterine Tube Epithelium of the Gilt. Anat Histol Embryol 2014; 44:441-51. [DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2013] [Accepted: 09/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M. L. Juárez-Mosqueda
- Departamento de Morfología; Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia; Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México; Avenida Universidad #3000 Delegación Coyoacán D.F. CP 04510 México D.F. México
| | - S. R. Anzaldúa Arce
- Departamento de Morfología; Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia; Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México; Avenida Universidad #3000 Delegación Coyoacán D.F. CP 04510 México D.F. México
| | - I. Palma Lara
- Departamento de Morfología; Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia; Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México; Avenida Universidad #3000 Delegación Coyoacán D.F. CP 04510 México D.F. México
- Molecular and Celular Morphology Laboratory; Escuela Superior de Medicina; Instituto Politécnico Nacional; Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón CP 11340 México D.F. México
| | - C. García Dalmán
- Departamento de Morfología; Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia; Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México; Avenida Universidad #3000 Delegación Coyoacán D.F. CP 04510 México D.F. México
| | - M. A. Cornejo Cortés
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Cuautitlán; Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México; Carretera Cuautitlán-Teoloyucan Km 2.5 San Sebastián Xhala Cuautitlán Izcalli C.P. 54714 Cuautitlán Izcalli Edo. de México México
| | - A. Córdova Izquierdo
- Departamento de producción agrícola Animal; Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana; Unidad Xochimilco. Calzada del Hueso #1100 Colonia Villa quietud CP 04960 México D.F. México
| | - H. Villaseñor Gaona
- Departamento de Morfología; Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia; Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México; Avenida Universidad #3000 Delegación Coyoacán D.F. CP 04510 México D.F. México
| | - M. E. Trujillo Ortega
- Departamento de Medicina y Zootecnia de Cerdos; Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia; Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México; Avenida Universidad #3000 Delegación Coyoacán D.F. CP 04510 México D.F. México
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Hribal R, Hachen A, Jewgenow K, Zahmel J, Fernandez-Gonzalez L, Braun BC. The influence of recombinant feline oviductin on different aspects of domestic cat (Felis catus) IVF and embryo quality. Theriogenology 2014; 82:742-9. [PMID: 25023298 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2014] [Revised: 05/21/2014] [Accepted: 06/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Oviductin is known to be a key player providing a convenient environment for the process of fertilization affecting this by direct interaction with oocytes and sperm. As in vitro embryo production in the context of assisted reproduction for endangered felids is still in the process of optimization, oviductin might be used to improve IVF results. Recombinant His-tagged feline oviductin was expressed by transformed Escherichia coli BL21DE3 cells. The protein was purified by immobilized metal ion affinity chromatography. The effect of the recombinant protein was characterized in three experiments: a hemizona assay for sperm binding analysis, the IVF outcome, and the relative mRNA expression levels in blastocysts after IVF. A significant higher number of bound sperm cells were found after incubation in oviductin. No significant effect on cleavage, morula, and blastocyst rates with or without oviductin incubation during IVF could be observed. However, the relative mRNA abundance of GJA1, a gene, whose expression level is known to be a marker of embryo quality, was significantly increased (P value less than 0.05) in blastocysts after oviductin treatment. In contrast to this, expression of OCT4, HSP70, DNMT1, DNMT3A, BAX, IGF1R, and GAPDH was not significantly affected. We assume that our recombinant oviductin in its current nonglycosylated form is able to enhance sperm binding. Despite of a missing significant effect on IVF outcome, embryo quality in terms of relative GJA1 expression is influenced positively. These promising results demonstrate the value of recombinant oviductin for the IVF in cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romy Hribal
- Department Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Alexandra Hachen
- Department Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katarina Jewgenow
- Department Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jennifer Zahmel
- Department Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Beate C Braun
- Department Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
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31
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Moein-Vaziri N, Phillips I, Smith S, Almiňana C, Maside C, Gil MA, Roca J, Martinez EA, Holt WV, Pockley AG, Fazeli A. Heat-shock protein A8 restores sperm membrane integrity by increasing plasma membrane fluidity. Reproduction 2014; 147:719-32. [PMID: 24501193 DOI: 10.1530/rep-13-0631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The constitutive 70 kDa heat-shock protein, HSPA8, has previously been shown to contribute to the long-term survival of spermatozoa inside the mammalian female reproductive tract. Here, we show that a recombinant form of HSPA8 rapidly promotes the viability of uncapacitated spermatozoa, the ability of spermatozoa to bind to oviductal epithelial cells, enhances IVF performance, and decreases sperm mitochondrial activity. Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching revealed that the repair of membrane damage is achieved by an almost instantaneous increase in sperm membrane fluidity. The ability of HSPA8 to influence membrane stability and fluidity, as well as its conserved nature among mammalian species, supports the idea that this protein protects sperm survival through membrane repair mechanisms. Free Persian abstract A Persian translation of the abstract is freely available online at http://www.reproduction-online.org/content/147/5/719/suppl/DC1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najmeh Moein-Vaziri
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Department of Human Metabolism, The Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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32
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Marey MA, Liu J, Kowsar R, Haneda S, Matsui M, Sasaki M, Shimizu T, Hayakawa H, Wijayagunawardane MPB, Hussein FM, Miyamoto A. Bovine oviduct epithelial cells downregulate phagocytosis of sperm by neutrophils: prostaglandin E2 as a major physiological regulator. Reproduction 2014; 147:211-9. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-13-0375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the presence of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) in bovine oviduct fluid under physiological conditions and to determine the possible role of bovine oviduct epithelial cells (BOECs) in the regulation of the phagocytic activity of PMNs for sperm. During the pre-ovulatory stage, PMNs were identified in the bovine oviduct fluid in relatively constant numbers. In our experiments, PMNs were incubated for 4 h with the supernatant of cultured BOECs stimulated for 24 h by LH (10 ng/ml). Phagocytosis was then assayed by co-incubation of these PMNs with sperm treated to induce capacitation. The BOEC supernatant significantly suppressed sperm phagocytosis by PMNs, and the LH-stimulated BOEC supernatant further suppressed phagocytosis. Importantly, in the BOEC culture, LH stimulated the secretion of prostaglandin E2(PGE2), which dose-dependently (10−6, 10−7, and 10−8 M) suppressed sperm phagocytosis by PMNs. Furthermore, a PGEP2receptor antagonist significantly abrogated the inhibition of phagocytosis by the LH-stimulated BOEC supernatant. Additionally, using scanning electron microscopy, incubation of PMNs with either PGE2or LH-stimulated BOEC supernatant before phagocytosis was found to prevent the formation of DNA-based neutrophil extracellular traps for sperm entanglement. The results indicate that sperm are exposed to PMNs in the oviduct and PGE2released into the oviduct fluid after LH stimulation may play a major role in the suppression of the phagocytic activity of PMNs for sperm via interaction with EP2receptors. Thus, the bovine oviduct provides a PGE2-rich microenvironment to protect sperm from phagocytosis by PMNs, thereby supporting sperm survival in the oviduct.Free Japanese abstractA Japanese translation of this abstract is freely available athttp://www.reproduction-online.org/content/147/2/211/suppl/DC1
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33
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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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Saccary L, She YM, Oko R, Kan FW. Hamster Oviductin Regulates Tyrosine Phosphorylation of Sperm Proteins During In Vitro Capacitation1. Biol Reprod 2013; 89:38. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.109314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
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35
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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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36
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Sequence analysis of feline oviductin and its expression during the estrous cycle in the domestic cat (Felis catus). Theriogenology 2011; 77:539-49. [PMID: 22015153 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.08.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2011] [Revised: 08/16/2011] [Accepted: 08/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Oviductins belong to a family of oviduct-specific glycoproteins believed to play an important role in fertilization and/or early embryonic development. Oviductin cDNA between species is highly conserved and shares 58% to 98% similarity in the deduced amino acid sequences. Our objective in this study was to sequence the full open reading frame of the feline oviductin and to examine its expression during the estrous cycle on both mRNA and protein level. The obtained cDNA containing the full open reading frame was determined to be 1677 nucleotides coding for a deduced protein of 558 amino acids. Identities between species range from 74% (mouse) to 80% (human, baboon, and rhesus) within the N-terminal protein region. Major differences were localized in the carboxy terminal region, which corresponds to exon 11 of the gene. Feline oviductin contained one putative N-linked glycosylation site, six O-linked glycosylation sites, a potential heparin binding site, and two cholesterol recognition and/or interaction amino acid consensus (CRAC) domains. Oviductin expression was analyzed by real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and immunohistochemistry. Both approaches revealed an estrous cycle-dependent expression in the ampulla and isthmus. Quantitative PCR showed highest oviductin mRNA copy numbers in the early and late follicular stage and reduced mRNA expression during all other stages. With the exception of the early follicular stage, feline oviductin mRNA abundance was not significantly different in the oviductal segments ampulla and isthmus. A prominent immunolabeling was seen in the early and late follicular stage which disappeared after ovulation, indicating a function of the protein during sperm storage and fertilization.
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Au PCK, Frankenberg S, Selwood L, Familari M. A novel marsupial pri-miRNA transcript has a putative role in gamete maintenance and defines a vertebrate miRNA cluster paralogous to the miR-15a/miR-16-1 cluster. Reproduction 2011; 142:539-50. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-11-0208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Successful maintenance, survival and maturation of gametes rely on bidirectional communication between the gamete and its supporting cells. Before puberty, factors from the gamete and its supporting cells are necessary for spermatogonial stem cell and primordial follicle oocyte maintenance. Following gametogenesis, gametes rely on factors and nutrients secreted by cells of the reproductive tracts, the epididymis and/or oviduct, to complete maturation. Despite extensive studies on female and male reproduction, many of the molecular mechanisms of germ cell maintenance remain relatively unknown, particularly in marsupial species. We present the first study and characterisation of a novel primary miRNA transcript, pri-miR-16c, in the marsupial, the stripe-faced dunnart. Bioinformatic analysis showed that its predicted processed miRNA – miR-16c – is present in a wide range of vertebrates, but not eutherians. In situ hybridisation revealed dunnart pri-miR-16c expression in day 4 (primordial germ cells) and day 7 (oogonia) pouch young, in primary oocytes and follicle cells of primordial follicles but then only in follicle cells of primary, secondary and antral follicles in adult ovaries. In the adult testis, pri-miR-16c transcripts were present in the cytoplasm of spermatogonial cells. The oviduct and the epididymis both showed expression, but not any other somatic tissues examined or conceptuses during early embryonic development. This pattern of expression suggests that pri-miR-16c function may be associated with gamete maintenance, possibly through mechanisms involving RNA transfer, until the zygote enters the uterus at the pronuclear stage.
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Killian G. PHYSIOLOGY AND ENDOCRINOLOGY SYMPOSIUM: Evidence that oviduct secretions influence sperm function: A retrospective view for livestock1. J Anim Sci 2011; 89:1315-22. [DOI: 10.2527/jas.2010-3349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
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39
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Lyng R, Shur BD. Mouse oviduct-specific glycoprotein is an egg-associated ZP3-independent sperm-adhesion ligand. J Cell Sci 2009; 122:3894-906. [PMID: 19808884 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.058776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mouse sperm-egg binding requires a multiplicity of receptor-ligand interactions, including an oviduct-derived, high molecular weight, wheat germ agglutinin (WGA)-binding glycoprotein that associates with the egg coat at ovulation. Herein, we report the purification and identification of this sperm-binding ligand. WGA-binding, high molecular weight glycoproteins isolated from hormonally primed mouse oviduct lysates competitively inhibit sperm-egg binding in vitro. Within this heterogeneous glycoprotein preparation, a distinct 220 kDa protein selectively binds to sperm surfaces, and was identified by sequence analysis as oviduct-specific glycoprotein (OGP). The sperm-binding activity of OGP was confirmed by the loss of sperm-binding following immunodepletion of OGP from oviduct lysates, and by the ability of both immunoprecipitated OGP and natively purified OGP to competitively inhibit sperm-egg binding. As expected, OGP is expressed by the secretory cells of the fimbriae and infundibulum; however, in contrast to previous reports, OGP is also associated with both the zona pellucida and the perivitelline space of mouse oocytes. Western blot analysis and lectin affinity chromatography demonstrate that whereas the bulk of OGP remains soluble in the ampullar fluid, distinct glycoforms associate with the cumulus matrix, zona pellucida and perivitelline space. The sperm-binding activity of OGP is carbohydrate-dependent and restricted to a relatively minor peanut agglutinin (PNA)-binding glycoform that preferentially associates with the sperm surface, zona pellucida and perivitelline space, relative to other more abundant glycoforms. Finally, pretreatment of two-cell embryos, which do not normally bind sperm, with PNA-binding OGP stimulates sperm binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Lyng
- Department of Cell Biology, Graduate Program in Biochemistry, Cell and Developmental Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
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40
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den Boer SPA, Boomsma JJ, Baer B. Honey bee males and queens use glandular secretions to enhance sperm viability before and after storage. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2009; 55:538-543. [PMID: 19232404 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2009.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2008] [Revised: 01/13/2009] [Accepted: 01/23/2009] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Internal fertilization requires live sperm to be transferred from male to female before egg fertilization. Both males and females assist the insemination process by providing sperm with glandular secretions, which have been inferred to contain subsets of proteins that maintain sperm viability. Here we show that in the honeybee (Apis mellifera) secretions of the male accessory glands, the major contributors towards seminal fluid, enhance sperm survival. We further demonstrate that the protein fraction of the male accessory gland secretion is indeed important for achieving the maximal effect on sperm survival. After sperm storage, the queens also provide sperm with secretions from spermathecal glands and we show that these secretions have a comparable positive effect on sperm viability. SDS gels show that the proteomic profiles of accessory gland secretion and spermathecal fluid secretion hardly overlap, which suggests that males and females use different proteins to enhance sperm viability during, respectively, ejaculation and final sperm storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne P A den Boer
- Centre for Social Evolution, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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41
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Gervasi MG, Rapanelli M, Ribeiro ML, Farina M, Billi S, Franchi AM, Martinez SP. The endocannabinoid system in bull sperm and bovine oviductal epithelium: role of anandamide in sperm–oviduct interaction. Reproduction 2009; 137:403-14. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-08-0204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Anandamide binds to cannabinoid receptors and plays several central and peripheral functions. The aim of this work was to study the possible role for this endocannabinoid in controlling sperm–oviduct interaction in mammals. We observed that bull sperm and bovine oviductal epithelial cells express cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, and fatty acid amide hydrolase, the enzyme that controls intracellular anandamide levels. A quantitative assay to determine whether anandamide was involved in bovine sperm–oviduct interaction was developed. R(+)-methanandamide, a non-hydrolysable anandamide analog, inhibited sperm binding to and induced sperm release from oviductal epithelia. Selective CB1 antagonists (SR141716A or AM251) completely blocked R(+)-methanandamide effects. However, SR144528, a selective CB2 antagonist, did not exert any effect, indicating that only CB1 was involved in R(+)-methanandamide effect. This effect was not caused by inhibition of the sperm progressive motility or by induction of the acrosome reaction. Overall, our findings indicate for the first time that the endocannabinoid system is present in bovine sperm and oviductal epithelium and that anandamide modulates the sperm–oviduct interaction, by inhibition of sperm binding and induction of sperm release from oviductal epithelial cells, probably by activating CB1 receptors.
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Imam S, Ansari MR, Kumar A, Singh C, Bharti VK, Kumaresan A. Effect of oviductal proteins on structural and functional characteristics of cryopreserved sperm in Murrah buffaloes. Reprod Domest Anim 2008; 45:302-6. [PMID: 19019058 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2008.01300.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The present study was undertaken to elucidate the effect of non-luteal oviductal proteins on sperm characteristics in Murrah buffaloes. Oviducts from healthy buffaloes were collected immediately after slaughter and the oestrous cycle phase was determined as either luteal or non-luteal based on ovarian morphology. Non-luteal oviducts (n = 80) were flushed from the isthmic end of the oviduct with PBS, fluid was centrifuged at 10,000 g at 4 degrees C for 20 min and then dialysed and clarified. The supernatant obtained was lyophilized to concentrate the protein and stored at -20 degrees C till use. Sixteen good quality ejaculates from four Murrah buffalo bulls were collected using an artificial vagina. After fresh semen analysis, each ejaculate was split into two parts and extended in Tris-citrate-egg yolk glycerol dilutor. Part I of the split ejaculate was treated with non-luteal oviductal proteins at the dose rate of 1 mg/ml of diluted semen, while part II remained as control. The extended semen was equilibrated for 4 h at 5 degrees C, filled in 0.5 ml French straws, exposed to LN(2) vapour, plunged into LN(2) and then stored at -196 degrees C. The equilibrated and frozen-thawed semen was evaluated for sperm motility, viability, acrosomal integrity, cervical mucus penetration test and hypo-osmotic sperm swelling test (HOST). In frozen-thawed semen, the percentage of sperm motility, viability and acrosomal integrity was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the treatment group compared to the control group. The incorporation of non-luteal oviductal proteins in the extender increased the ability of sperm to penetrate cervical mucus both after equilibration and the freeze-thaw process. Similarly, the proportion of sperm with intact plasma membrane, as revealed by HOST values, was also significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the treatment group (32.6%) than the control group (27%) in frozen-thawed semen. It was inferred that incorporation of non-luteal whole oviductal fluid proteins improved the sperm quality in frozen-thawed semen in Murrah buffaloes.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Imam
- Artificial Insemination Lab, Division of Animal Reproduction, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Barapani, Umiam, Meghalaya, India
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Effect of oviductal fluid proteins on buffalo sperm characteristics during cryopreservation. Theriogenology 2008; 69:925-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2007.05.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2006] [Revised: 05/24/2007] [Accepted: 05/28/2007] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Abe H, Hoshi H. Morphometric and Ultrastructural Changes in Ciliated Cells of the Oviductal Epithelium in Prolific Chinese Meishan and Large White Pigs During the Oestrous Cycle. Reprod Domest Anim 2007; 43:66-73. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2007.00856.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Kodithuwakku SP, Miyamoto A, Wijayagunawardane MPB. Spermatozoa stimulate prostaglandin synthesis and secretion in bovine oviductal epithelial cells. Reproduction 2007; 133:1087-94. [PMID: 17636163 DOI: 10.1530/rep-06-0201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The dynamic action of oviductal secretory compounds on spermatozoa function is well documented. In contrast, the effect of spermatozoa on oviductal function remains poorly characterized. Previously, our lab and others have shown that prostaglandin (PG), together with other vasoactive peptides, plays major roles in oviductal contractions and sperm transport. We therefore examined the effect of spermatozoa on the production of PG by cow oviductal epithelial cells (OEC). A bovine spermatozoa–OEC co-culture system was utilized for this purpose. OECs in the second passage were co-cultured for 0, 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 h with six doses of motile, killed, or truncated spermatozoa heads (control; without spermatozoa, 102–106spermatozoa/ml medium). The levels of PGE2and PGF2αin the medium were measured using enzyme immunoassays. Messenger RNA expression of cyclooxygenase-2, PGF synthase (PGFS), and PGE synthase (PGES) was investigated using real-time RT-PCR. The results indicated that motile spermatozoa increased the secretion of PG by OEC as well as cellular expression of mRNA for cyclooxygenase, PGES, and PGFS in a dose- and time-dependent manner. A maximum three- to fivefold increased secretion of PG was observed with a dose of 105spermatozoa/ml after a 12-h co-incubation. Neither killed spermatozoa nor truncated spermatozoa heads stimulated oviductal biosynthesis and secretion of PG at any dose or time point observed. The results provide the first evidence that live spermatozoa in the oviduct up-regulate the local PG system, and thereby, enhance oviductal contractions. Thus, spermatozoa may bear a role in accelerating their own transport into the fertilization site.
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Abe H, Hoshi H. Regional and Cyclic Variations in the Ultrastructural Features of Secretory Cells in the Oviductal Epithelium of the Chinese Meishan Pig. Reprod Domest Anim 2007; 42:292-8. [PMID: 17506808 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2006.00781.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The Chinese Meishan pig is prolific breed and it is considered that this pig has a capacity with higher rates of embryonic survival. The oviductal secretory cells may affect the embryonic development and survival. The aim of the present study was to investigate the ultrastructural features of secretory cells in the various regions of the Chinese Meishan pig oviduct during the follicular and luteal phases of the oestrous cycle. In the ampullar secretory cells, numerous secretory granules with moderately electron-dense matrices were present in the supranuclear cytoplasm and exocytosis of secretory granules was observed. The number of secretory granules was dramatically reduced in the ampullar secretory cells in the luteal phase. During the follicular phase in the fimbrial epithelium, the secretory cells contained rough endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus, but most cells had few small granules. In the luteal phase, the secretory cells in the ampullar and fimbrial epithelia extended beyond the luminal border of the ciliated cells. In the isthmus, many granules were present in the cytoplasm of secretory cells throughout the oestrous cycle, but the number of secretory granules was reduced in the luteal phase. The cytomorphometric data revealed that the height of ciliated cells decreased substantially in the fimbriae and ampulla at the luteal phase, while that of non-ciliated cells was less affected. These results suggest that the drastic reduction of cell height of ciliated cells cause the extrusion of most secretory cells beyond the ciliated cells in the fimbriae and ampulla during the luteal phase. In summary, our ultrastructural observations of Chinese Meishan pig oviduct revealed marked cyclic changes in the ultrastructural features of secretory cells. In particular, the ultrastructural features and the numbers of secretory granules were distinctive for each particular segment. These findings should provide insight into the regional and cellular differences in functions of secretory cells of the Chinese Meishan pig oviduct.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Abe
- Tohoku University Biomedical Engineering Research Organization, Sendai, Japan.
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Chen XH, Xie ZH, Sun SJ, Cai G. Cloning of a rat lung fibrogenic factor. Gene 2006; 384:9-17. [PMID: 16971062 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2006.06.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2006] [Revised: 06/25/2006] [Accepted: 06/28/2006] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
In a previous study a specific single polypeptide has been purified and characterized that it was capable of promoting human embryonic lung 2BS fibroblasts proliferation in vitro, whose N-terminal 15 amino acid have high sequence homology with members of the mammalian chitinase-like protein family. Here the cloning of the gene is reported. Its cDNA contains an open reading frame 1421 bp long and encodes a protein with a characteristic N-terminal 21 amino acid endoplasmic reticulum signal peptide and the putative protein is highly homologous to acidic mammalian chitinase (AMCase) precursor of mouse and human. Recombinant proteins demonstrate chitinolytic activity, therefore the gene is termed as rat AMCase. Sequence analysis indicates that the gene spanned a 46.2 kb region in rat chromosome 2. Its expression in several tissues other than alveolar macrophages suggests that it might play multiple biological roles in vivo. Our findings will facilitate studies on its roles in physiological and pathological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Hua Chen
- Department of Biological Science and Biotechnology, Tsinghua University, PR China.
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Kumaresan A, Ansari MR, Garg A, Kataria M. Effect of oviductal proteins on sperm functions and lipid peroxidation levels during cryopreservation in buffaloes. Anim Reprod Sci 2006; 93:246-57. [PMID: 16198514 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2005.06.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2005] [Revised: 06/27/2005] [Accepted: 06/30/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
A study was undertaken to find out the effect of addition of oviductal proteins on sperm functions and lipid peroxidation (LPO) levels in buffaloes. Oviductal flushings were collected from apparently healthy buffalo genital tracts (nonluteal and luteal stage of estrous cycle), centrifuged (3000 rpm; 30 min), filtered (0.2 microm) and frozen at -20 degrees C. The proteins in pooled nonluteal and luteal oviductal fluid were precipitated overnight using ammonium sulphate, centrifuged (10,000 rpm; 30 min) and dialyzed (>10 kDa). After protein estimation, aliquots of samples containing 10 mg proteins were lyophilized in cryovials and stored frozen at -20 degrees C. Six pooled good quality ejaculates collected by artificial vagina method from two Murrah buffalo bulls were utilized for the study. After fresh semen analysis, each pooled ejaculate was split into three parts and extended in Tris-Egg yolk-Citrate extender (20% egg yolk: 7% glycerol), so that final dilution yielded approximately 60 million sperm cells/ml and cryopreserved in 0.5 ml French straws (30 million sperm cells per straw) in LN2 (-196 degrees C). Before freezing, the nonluteal and luteal oviductal proteins (NLOP &LOP) were incorporated at the concentration of 1mg/ml of extended semen. The equilibrated and frozen thawed (37 degrees C for 30s) semen was evaluated for motility, viability and acrosomal integrity, bovine cervical mucus penetration test and hypo-osmotic sperm swelling test. Besides these tests, LPO level was assessed in sperm and seminal plasma in equilibrated and frozen thawed semen. Results revealed that addition of oviductal proteins to semen before freezing convey beneficial effect in terms of spermatozoan motility, viability and acrosomal integrity. Nonluteal oviductal proteins favored significantly (P < 0.05) higher sperm penetration distance in cervical mucus (23.00+/-1.15 mm) than the control group (15.00+/-3.46 mm) in frozen thawed semen. Similarly, swollen sperm percentage was also significantly (P < 0.05) higher in NLOP treated group than the LOP included and control groups. In frozen thawed spermatozoa, the LPO level was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in NLOP added group than the LOP added and control group. It was inferred that incorporation of oviductal proteins in extender before freezing reduced the lipid peroxidation levels in buffalo spermatozoa during cryopreservation and thereby improved the post-thaw semen quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kumaresan
- Division of Animal Reproduction, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izat Nagar, Bareilly 243122, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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Kan FWK, Esperanzate PWB. Surface mapping of binding of oviductin to the plasma membrane of golden hamster spermatozoa during in vitro capacitation and acrosome reaction. Mol Reprod Dev 2006; 73:756-66. [PMID: 16493683 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Oviductins are high-molecular-weight glycoproteins synthesized and secreted by nonciliated oviductal epithelial cells and have been shown to play a role in fertilization and early embryo development. The present study was carried out to examine the in vitro binding capacity of hamster oviductin to homologous sperm and to determine the sites of its localization in untreated, capacitated, and acrosome-reacted spermatozoa. Freshly prepared epididymal and capacitated sperm as well as acrosome-reacted sperm were incubated with oviductal fluid prepared from isolated hamster oviducts, fixed and then probed with a monoclonal antibody against hamster oviductin. Results obtained with pre-embedding immunolabeling experiments revealed binding of oviductin to the acrosomal cap and the apical aspect of the postacrosomal region. Immunolabeling of both regions appeared to be more intense in capacitated spermatozoa. Acrosome-reacted sperm showed an immunoreaction of moderate intensity over the postacrosomal region. The plasma membrane overlying the equatorial segment also exhibited a weak labeling. Quantitative analysis obtained with the surface replica technique indicated that oviductin had a higher binding affinity for the acrosomal cap than the postacrosomal region and that the binding of oviductin to the latter plasma membrane domain was enhanced during capacitation. Binding of oviductin to the postacrosomal region, however, was attenuated after acrosome reaction. Immunolabeling for oviductin was found to be the weakest over the equatorial segment regardless of the experimental conditions. The binding of hamster oviductin to specific membrane domains of the homologous sperm and the changes in its distribution during capacitation and acrosome reaction may be important for the function of hamster oviductin preceding and during fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederick W K Kan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
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Bassols J, Kádár E, Briz M, Pinart E, Sancho S, Garcia-Gil N, Badia E, Pruneda A, Bussalleu E, Yeste M, Casas I, Dacheux JL, Bonet S. Evaluation of boar sperm maturation after co-incubation with caput, corpus and cauda epididymal cultures. Theriogenology 2005; 64:1995-2009. [PMID: 15964065 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2005.05.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2005] [Revised: 03/29/2005] [Accepted: 05/01/2005] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Boar sperm from the proximal caput epididymis were co-incubated with 1, 4, 7, 10 and 14-day old caput, corpus and cauda epididymal cultures for 24, 48 and 72 h. Boar kidney epithelial cells (LLC-PK1) and ECM alone were used as negative controls. Sperm motility, morphology and membrane integrity were studied to evaluate boar sperm maturation in vitro. Our results showed that epithelial cell monolayers (10, 14-day old) create a suitable microenvironment for the survival of proximal caput sperm and the maintenance of sperm motility over a 72 h period. Moreover, corpus epididymal tubule fragments in culture (1, 4-day old) are capable of promoting the migration of the cytoplasmic droplet along the sperm tail after 24h of co-incubation.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Bassols
- Biotechnology of Porcine Reproduction, Department of Biology, INTEA, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi s/n, 17071 Girona, Spain
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