1
|
Pytel AT, Żyżyńska-Galeńska K, Gajewski Z, Papis K. Factors defining developmental competence of bovine oocytes collected for in vitro embryo production†. Biol Reprod 2024; 111:1-10. [PMID: 38662582 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite the currently relatively low effectiveness of producing bovine embryos in vitro, there is a growing interest in applying this laboratory method in the field of reproduction. Many aspects of the procedure need to be improved. One of the main problems is the inferior developmental competence of in vitro matured oocytes that are collected using the ovum pick-up method. The mechanisms of oocyte capacitation and maturation, as well as the in vivo conditions in which they grow and mature, should be carefully analyzed. A deliberate application of the identified mechanisms and beneficial factors affecting the in vitro procedures seems to be essential for achieving higher developmental competence of the oocytes that are subjected to fertilization. The results may be improved by developing and employing a laboratory maturation protocol that corresponds with appropriate preparation of donors before the ovum pick-up, an optimized hormonal treatment program, the appropriate size of ovarian follicles at the time of aspiration, and a fine-tuned coasting period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Teresa Pytel
- Department of Large Animal Diseases and Clinic, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Nowoursynowska 100, 02-797 Warsaw, Poland
- Bovisvet Veterinary Practice of Reproduction and Cattle Diseases, Kosierady Wielkie 34A, 08-300 Sokołów Podlaski, Poland
| | - Krystyna Żyżyńska-Galeńska
- Center of Translational Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Nowoursynowska 100, 02-797 Warsaw, Poland
- Laboratory of Neurodegeneration, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Księcia Trojdena 4, 02-109 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Zdzisław Gajewski
- Center of Translational Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Nowoursynowska 100, 02-797 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Papis
- Center of Translational Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Nowoursynowska 100, 02-797 Warsaw, Poland
- nOvum Fertility Clinic, Bociania 13, 02-807 Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Del Bianco D, Gentile R, Sallicandro L, Biagini A, Quellari PT, Gliozheni E, Sabbatini P, Ragonese F, Malvasi A, D’Amato A, Baldini GM, Trojano G, Tinelli A, Fioretti B. Electro-Metabolic Coupling of Cumulus-Oocyte Complex. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5349. [PMID: 38791387 PMCID: PMC11120766 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Oocyte-cumulus cell interaction is essential for oocyte maturation and competence. The bidirectional crosstalk network mediated by gap junctions is fundamental for the metabolic cooperation between these cells. As cumulus cells exhibit a more glycolytic phenotype, they can provide metabolic substrates that the oocyte can use to produce ATP via oxidative phosphorylation. The impairment of mitochondrial activity plays a crucial role in ovarian aging and, thus, in fertility, determining the success or failure of assisted reproductive techniques. This review aims to deepen the knowledge about the electro-metabolic coupling of the cumulus-oocyte complex and to hypothesize a putative role of potassium channel modulators in order to improve fertility, promote intracellular Ca2+ influx, and increase the mitochondrial biogenesis and resulting ATP levels in cumulus cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diletta Del Bianco
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
| | - Rosaria Gentile
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Laboratorio Interdipartimentale di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Edificio C, Piano 3 P.zza Lucio Severi, 1, Sant’Andrea delle Fratte, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Luana Sallicandro
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia Medical School, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Andrea Biagini
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia Medical School, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Paola Tiziana Quellari
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia Medical School, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy
- ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, 20162 Milano, Italy
| | - Elko Gliozheni
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia Medical School, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tirana, AL1005 Tirana, Albania
| | - Paola Sabbatini
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
| | - Francesco Ragonese
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Laboratorio Interdipartimentale di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Edificio C, Piano 3 P.zza Lucio Severi, 1, Sant’Andrea delle Fratte, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Antonio Malvasi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | - Antonio D’Amato
- 1st Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | | | - Giuseppe Trojano
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, “Madonna delle Grazie” Hospital ASM, 75100 Matera, Italy;
| | - Andrea Tinelli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and CERICSAL (CEntro di RIcerca Clinico SALentino), Veris delli Ponti Hospital, Via Giuseppina delli Ponti, 73020 Scorrano, Lecce, Italy
| | - Bernard Fioretti
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Laboratorio Interdipartimentale di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Edificio C, Piano 3 P.zza Lucio Severi, 1, Sant’Andrea delle Fratte, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Clark HM, Stokes AE, Edwards JL, Payton RR, Schrick FN, Campagna SR, Sarumi Q, Hessock EA, Roberts SR, Azaridolatabad N, Moorey SE. Impact of preovulatory follicle maturity on oocyte metabolism and embryo development. PNAS NEXUS 2024; 3:pgae181. [PMID: 38752021 PMCID: PMC11095542 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgae181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Improved oocyte competence for embryo development and pregnancy was observed following ovulation of preovulatory follicles with greater physiological maturity, as indicated by estradiol production, prior to the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-induced luteinizing hormone (LH) surge. It was hypothesized that follicular fluid from preovulatory follicles of greater maturity better supports the maturing oocyte's metabolic requirements and improves embryo development. The objective was to determine if differences in preovulatory follicular fluid due to follicle maturity influence oocyte metabolism during in vitro maturation (IVM) and affect embryo development. Bovine preovulatory follicular fluid was collected 18 h after a GnRH-induced LH surge. Serum estradiol concentration at GnRH administration categorized follicles as greater or lesser maturity. Immature bovine oocytes were submitted to 24 h IVM in medium supplemented with 20% follicular fluid from preovulatory follicles of greater or lesser maturity. Embryo development was recorded. Oocyte maturation media and media conditioned by developing embryos were submitted for metabolomics. A randomized block design was utilized to determine differences in embryo development and media metabolites (P ≤ 0.05). Blastocysts from oocytes matured in greater vs. lesser maturity follicular fluid had a more moderate rate of development (P = 0.01). At the conclusion of 24 h IVM, abundance of 66 metabolites differed between greater and lesser follicle maturity treatments. Nine metabolites differed in media conditioned by developing embryos. Metabolome results suggest improved amino acid, purine, and glucose metabolism, followed by a more efficient rate of embryo development, in oocytes matured in greater vs lesser maturity follicular fluid.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah M Clark
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, 2506 River Drive, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Allyson E Stokes
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, 2506 River Drive, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - J Lannett Edwards
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, 2506 River Drive, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Rebecca R Payton
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, 2506 River Drive, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - F Neal Schrick
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, 2506 River Drive, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Shawn R Campagna
- Department of Chemistry, University of Tennessee, 1420 Circle Dr., Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Qudus Sarumi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Tennessee, 1420 Circle Dr., Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Emma A Hessock
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, 2506 River Drive, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Samantha R Roberts
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, 2506 River Drive, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Nima Azaridolatabad
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, 2506 River Drive, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Sarah E Moorey
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture and AgResearch, 2506 River Drive, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Bartková AR, Němcová L, Kinterová V, Radová D, Strejček F, Toralová T, Laurinčík J, Procházka R. Meiotic and developmental competence of growing pig oocytes derived from small antral follicles is enhanced in culture medium containing FGF2, LIF, and IGF1 (FLI medium). J Ovarian Res 2024; 17:54. [PMID: 38431654 PMCID: PMC10908066 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-024-01360-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oocytes of large animal species isolated from small ovarian follicles (< 2 mm) are less competent to support early embryonic development after in vitro maturation and fertilization than their counterparts isolated from medium-sized and preovulatory follicles. This study aimed to assess the effect of a new maturation medium containing FGF2, LIF, and IGF1 (FLI medium) on the meiotic and developmental competence of pig cumulus-oocytes complexes (COCs) derived from the small and medium-sized follicles. METHODS The growing oocytes were isolated from 1 to 2 (small follicle; SF) and the fully-grown ones from 3 to 6 (large follicle; LF) mm follicles and matured in a control M199 medium with gonadotropins and EGF and the FLI medium enriched by the triplet of growth factors. The matured oocytes were parthenogenetically activated and cultured to the blastocyst stage. Chromatin configuration before and during the culture and MAP kinase activity were assessed in the oocytes. Finally, the expression of cumulus cell genes previously identified as markers of oocyte quality was assessed. RESULTS The maturation and blastocyst rates of oocytes gained from LF were significantly higher than that from SF in the control medium. In contrast, similar proportions of oocytes from LF and SF completed meiosis and developed to blastocysts when cultured in FLI. Most of the oocytes freshly isolated from SF possessed germinal vesicles with fine filaments of chromatin (GV0) or chromatin surrounding the nucleolus (GVI; 30%); the oocytes from LF were mainly in GVI (or GVII) exhibiting a few small lumps of chromatin beneath the nuclear membrane. When cultured in the FLI medium for 16 h, an acceleration of the course of maturation in oocytes both from SF and LF compared to the control medium was observed and a remarkable synchrony in the course of chromatin remodeling was noticed in oocytes from SF and LF. CONCLUSIONS This work demonstrates that the enrichment of culture medium by FGF2, LIF, and IGF1 can enhance the meiotic and developmental competence of not only fully-grown, but also growing pig oocytes and significantly thus expanding the number of oocytes available for various assisted reproductive technology applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Rosenbaum Bartková
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology, Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Informatics, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Lucie Němcová
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology, Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic.
| | - Veronika Kinterová
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology, Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
| | | | - František Strejček
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Informatics, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Tereza Toralová
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology, Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
| | - Jozef Laurinčík
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Informatics, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Radek Procházka
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology, Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Song Y, Zhang N, Zhang Y, Wang J, Lv Q, Zhang J. Single-Cell Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Development-Specific Networks at Distinct Synchronized Antral Follicle Sizes in Sheep Oocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:910. [PMID: 38255985 PMCID: PMC10815039 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The development of the ovarian antral follicle is a complex, highly regulated process. Oocytes orchestrate and coordinate the development of mammalian ovarian follicles, and the rate of follicular development is governed by a developmental program intrinsic to the oocyte. Characterizing oocyte signatures during this dynamic process is critical for understanding oocyte maturation and follicular development. Although the transcriptional signature of sheep oocytes matured in vitro and preovulatory oocytes have been previously described, the transcriptional changes of oocytes in antral follicles have not. Here, we used single-cell transcriptomics (SmartSeq2) to characterize sheep oocytes from small, medium, and large antral follicles. We characterized the transcriptomic landscape of sheep oocytes during antral follicle development, identifying unique features in the transcriptional atlas, stage-specific molecular signatures, oocyte-secreted factors, and transcription factor networks. Notably, we identified the specific expression of 222 genes in the LO, 8 and 6 genes that were stage-specific in the MO and SO, respectively. We also elucidated signaling pathways in each antral follicle size that may reflect oocyte quality and in vitro maturation competency. Additionally, we discovered key biological processes that drive the transition from small to large antral follicles, revealing hub genes involved in follicle recruitment and selection. Thus, our work provides a comprehensive characterization of the single-oocyte transcriptome, filling a gap in the mapping of the molecular landscape of sheep oogenesis. We also provide key insights into the transcriptional regulation of the critical sizes of antral follicular development, which is essential for understanding how the oocyte orchestrates follicular development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jiaxin Zhang
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Sheep & Goat Genetics Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Gilchrist RB, Ho TM, De Vos M, Sanchez F, Romero S, Ledger WL, Anckaert E, Vuong LN, Smitz J. A fresh start for IVM: capacitating the oocyte for development using pre-IVM. Hum Reprod Update 2024; 30:3-25. [PMID: 37639630 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While oocyte IVM is practiced sporadically it has not achieved widespread clinical practice globally. However, recently there have been some seminal advances in our understanding of basic aspects of oocyte biology and ovulation from animal studies that have led to novel approaches to IVM. A significant recent advance in IVM technology is the use of biphasic IVM approaches. These involve the collection of immature oocytes from small antral follicles from minimally stimulated patients/animals (without hCG-priming) and an ∼24 h pre-culture of oocytes in an advanced culture system ('pre-IVM') prior to IVM, followed by routine IVF procedures. If safe and efficacious, this novel procedure may stand to make a significant impact on human ART practices. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The objectives of this review are to examine the major scientific advances in ovarian biology with a unique focus on the development of pre-IVM methodologies, to provide an insight into biphasic IVM procedures, and to report on outcomes from animal and clinical human data, including safety data. The potential future impact of biphasic IVM on ART practice is discussed. SEARCH METHODS Peer review original and review articles were selected from PubMed and Web of Science searches for this narrative review. Searches were performed using the following keywords: oocyte IVM, pre-IVM, biphasic IVM, CAPA-IVM, hCG-triggered/primed IVM, natural cycle IVF/M, ex-vivo IVM, OTO-IVM, oocyte maturation, meiotic competence, oocyte developmental competence, oocyte capacitation, follicle size, cumulus cell (CC), granulosa cell, COC, gap-junction communication, trans-zonal process, cAMP and IVM, cGMP and IVM, CNP and IVM, EGF-like peptide and IVM, minimal stimulation ART, PCOS. OUTCOMES Minimizing gonadotrophin use means IVM oocytes will be collected from small antral (pre-dominant) follicles containing oocytes that are still developing. Standard IVM yields suboptimal clinical outcomes using such oocytes, whereas pre-IVM aims to continue the oocyte's development ex vivo, prior to IVM. Pre-IVM achieves this by eliciting profound cellular changes in the oocyte's CCs, which continue to meet the oocyte's developmental needs during the pre-IVM phase. The literature contains 25 years of animal research on various pre-IVM and biphasic IVM procedures, which serves as a large knowledge base for new approaches to human IVM. A pre-IVM procedure based on c-type natriuretic peptide (named 'capacitation-IVM' (CAPA-IVM)) has undergone pre-clinical human safety and efficacy trials and its adoption into clinical practice resulted in healthy live birth rates not different from conventional IVF. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Over many decades, improvements in clinical IVM have been gradual and incremental but there has likely been a turning of the tide in the past few years, with landmark discoveries in animal oocyte biology finally making their way into clinical practice leading to improved outcomes for patients. Demonstration of favorable clinical results with CAPA-IVM, as the first clinically tested biphasic IVM system, has led to renewed interest in IVM as an alternative, low-intervention, low-cost, safe, patient-friendly ART approach, and especially for patients with PCOS. The same new approach is being used as part of fertility preservation in patients with cancer and holds promise for social oocyte freezing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert B Gilchrist
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Tuong M Ho
- IVFMD, My Duc Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Michel De Vos
- Brussels IVF, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Flor Sanchez
- Centro de Estudios e Investigaciones en Biología y Medicina Reproductiva, Lima, Peru
| | - Sergio Romero
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology and Fertility Preservation, Cayetano Heredia University (UPCH), Lima, Peru
- Centro de Fertilidad y Reproducción Asistida, Lima, Peru
| | - William L Ledger
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, NSW, Australia
- City Fertility, Global CHA IVF Partners, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ellen Anckaert
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lan N Vuong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Johan Smitz
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Akin N, Ates G, von Mengden L, Herta AC, Meriggioli C, Billooye K, Stocker WA, Ghesquiere B, Harrison CA, Cools W, Klamt F, Massie A, Smitz J, Anckaert E. Effects of lactate, super-GDF9, and low oxygen tension during bi-phasic in vitro maturation on the bioenergetic profiles of mouse cumulus-oocyte complex†. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:432-449. [PMID: 37531262 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In vitro maturation (IVM) is an alternative assisted reproductive technology with reduced hormone-related side effects and treatment burden compared to conventional IVF. Capacitation (CAPA)-IVM is a bi-phasic IVM system with improved clinical outcomes compared to standard monophasic IVM. Yet, CAPA-IVM efficiency compared to conventional IVF is still suboptimal in terms of producing utilizable blastocysts. Previously, we have shown that CAPA-IVM leads to a precocious increase in cumulus cell (CC) glycolytic activity during cytoplasmic maturation. In the current study, considering the fundamental importance of CCs for oocyte maturation and cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) microenvironment, we further analyzed the bioenergetic profiles of maturing CAPA-IVM COCs. Through a multi-step approach, we (i) explored mitochondrial function of the in vivo and CAPA-IVM matured COCs through real-time metabolic analysis with Seahorse analyzer, and to improve COC metabolism (ii) supplemented the culture media with lactate and/or super-GDF9 (an engineered form of growth differentiation factor 9) and (iii) reduced culture oxygen tension. Our results indicated that the pre-IVM step is delicate and prone to culture-related disruptions. Lactate and/or super-GDF9 supplementations failed to eliminate pre-IVM-induced stress on COC glucose metabolism and mitochondrial respiration. However, when performing pre-IVM culture under 5% oxygen tension, CAPA-IVM COCs showed similar bioenergetic profiles compared to in vivo matured counterparts. This is the first study providing real-time metabolic analysis of the COCs from a bi-phasic IVM system. The currently used analytical approach provides the quantitative measures and the rational basis to further improve IVM culture requirements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nazli Akin
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Gamze Ates
- Laboratory of Neuro-Aging and Viro-Immunotherapy, Center for Neurosciences (C4N), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lucia von Mengden
- Laboratory of Cellular Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, ICBS, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - Cecilia Meriggioli
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Katy Billooye
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - William A Stocker
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Brecht Ghesquiere
- Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Craig A Harrison
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Wilfried Cools
- Support for Quantitative and Qualitative Research (SQUARE) Core Facility, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Fabio Klamt
- Laboratory of Cellular Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, ICBS, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Ann Massie
- Laboratory of Neuro-Aging and Viro-Immunotherapy, Center for Neurosciences (C4N), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Johan Smitz
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ellen Anckaert
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Wang P, Paquet ÉR, Robert C. Comprehensive transcriptomic analysis of long non-coding RNAs in bovine ovarian follicles and early embryos. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291761. [PMID: 37725621 PMCID: PMC10508637 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been the subject of numerous studies over the past decade. First thought to come from aberrant transcriptional events, lncRNAs are now considered a crucial component of the genome with roles in multiple cellular functions. However, the functional annotation and characterization of bovine lncRNAs during early development remain limited. In this comprehensive analysis, we review lncRNAs expression in bovine ovarian follicles and early embryos, based on a unique database comprising 468 microarray hybridizations from a single platform designed to target 7,724 lncRNA transcripts, of which 5,272 are intergenic (lincRNA), 958 are intronic, and 1,524 are antisense (lncNAT). Compared to translated mRNA, lncRNAs have been shown to be more tissue-specific and expressed in low copy numbers. This analysis revealed that protein-coding genes and lncRNAs are both expressed more in oocytes. Differences between the oocyte and the 2-cell embryo are also more apparent in terms of lncRNAs than mRNAs. Co-expression network analysis using WGCNA generated 25 modules with differing proportions of lncRNAs. The modules exhibiting a higher proportion of lncRNAs were found to be associated with fewer annotated mRNAs and housekeeping functions. Functional annotation of co-expressed mRNAs allowed attribution of lncRNAs to a wide array of key cellular events such as meiosis, translation initiation, immune response, and mitochondrial related functions. We thus provide evidence that lncRNAs play diverse physiological roles that are tissue-specific and associated with key cellular functions alongside mRNAs in bovine ovarian follicles and early embryos. This contributes to add lncRNAs as active molecules in the complex regulatory networks driving folliculogenesis, oogenesis and early embryogenesis all of which are necessary for reproductive success.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pengmin Wang
- Département des sciences animales, Faculté des sciences de l’agriculture et de l’alimentation, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Éric R. Paquet
- Département des sciences animales, Faculté des sciences de l’agriculture et de l’alimentation, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Claude Robert
- Département des sciences animales, Faculté des sciences de l’agriculture et de l’alimentation, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zhang FL, Li WD, Zhang G, Zhang M, Liu ZJ, Zhu KX, Liu QC, Zhang SE, Shen W, Zhang XF. Identification of unique transcriptomic signatures through integrated multispecies comparative analysis and WGCNA in bovine oocyte development. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:265. [PMID: 37202739 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09362-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cattle (Bos taurus) are a major large livestock, however, compared with other species, the transcriptional specificity of bovine oocyte development has not been emphasised. RESULTS To reveal the unique transcriptional signatures of bovine oocyte development, we used integrated multispecies comparative analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to perform bioinformatic analysis of the germinal follicle (GV) and second meiosis (MII) gene expression profile from cattle, sheep, pigs and mice. We found that the expression levels of most genes were down-regulated from GV to MII in all species. Next, the multispecies comparative analysis showed more genes involved in the regulation of cAMP signalling during bovine oocyte development. Moreover, the green module identified by WGCNA was closely related to bovine oocyte development. Finally, integrated multispecies comparative analysis and WGCNA picked up 61 bovine-specific signature genes that participate in metabolic regulation and steroid hormone biosynthesis. CONCLUSION In a short, this study provides new insights into the regulation of cattle oocyte development from a cross-species comparison.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fa-Li Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266100, China
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271018, China
| | - Wei-Dong Li
- Advanced Medical Research Institute, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Geng Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Min Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271018, China
| | - Zhao-Jun Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Ke-Xin Zhu
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Qing-Chun Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Shu-Er Zhang
- Animal Husbandry General Station of Shandong Province, Jinan, 250010, China
| | - Wei Shen
- College of Life Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Xi-Feng Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266100, China.
- Qingdao Longming Cattle Industry Co., Ltd, Qingdao, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Dubuc K, Marchais M, Gilbert I, Bastien A, Nenonene KE, Khandjian EW, Viger RS, Delbes G, Robert C. Epitranscriptome marks detection and localization of RNA modifying proteins in mammalian ovarian follicles. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:90. [PMID: 37165445 PMCID: PMC10170753 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01172-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most of the resources that support the early development of the embryo are stored in the oocyte. Clearing of maternal resources and activation of the embryonic genome to produce its own mRNA transcripts marks the maternal-to-embryo transition. Dependence on stored mRNA can last from a few hours to several days, depending on animal species. The mechanisms regulating stabilization and recruitment of stored maternal transcripts have not yet been described in full detail but are known to involve reversible polyadenylation and modulation of 3'UTR-mediated elements. RNA epigenetic modifications, new players in this field, have an important role in RNA regulation and stabilization. RESULTS The objectives of this study were first to determine if some of post-transcriptional methylation of stored mRNA is greater in oocytes than in somatic cells. We found that m6A, known to be the most prevalent and involved in various aspects of RNA metabolism and physiological functions, is particularly abundant in porcine oocyte mRNA compared to liver used as a somatic tissue reference. The second objective was to compare the epitranscriptome machinery, such as methyltransferases ("writers"), binding proteins ("readers") and demethylases ("erasers") catalyzing the different process, in follicles and oocytes of different mammalian species by immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy. The expression and localization patterns of these proteins differ between mice, pigs and cows ovaries and oocytes. m5C-associated proteins were generally less abundant. In contrast, m6A-associated proteins were expressed strongly during the early and late stages of folliculogenesis. Transzonal projections were found to contain more granules bearing the m5C mark in mice but both m5C and m6A methylation marks in association with mature oocytes of pigs and cows. Eraser proteins showed the greatest interspecies diversity in terms of distribution in the germinal tissues. CONCLUSIONS So far, few studies have looked at the oocyte and ovarian epitranscriptomic profile. Our findings indicate that a hitherto unrecognized species-specific layer of transcript regulation occurs at the RNA level and might be consequential during the oocyte transcriptional silencing period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karine Dubuc
- Centre de Recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département des sciences animales, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Mathilde Marchais
- Centre de Recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département des sciences animales, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Isabelle Gilbert
- Centre de Recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département des sciences animales, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Alexandre Bastien
- Centre de Recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département des sciences animales, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Karen E Nenonene
- Centre de Recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département des sciences animales, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Edward W Khandjian
- Département de psychiatrie et de neurosciences, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Robert S Viger
- Centre de Recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- Département d'obstétrique, gynécologie et reproduction, Faculté de médecine, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Géraldine Delbes
- Centre de Recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
- INRS- Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Laval, QC, Canada
| | - Claude Robert
- Centre de Recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.
- Département des sciences animales, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lodde V, Luciano AM, Garcia Barros R, Giovanardi G, Sivelli G, Franciosi F. Review: The putative role of Progesterone Receptor membrane Component 1 in bovine oocyte development and competence. Animal 2023; 17 Suppl 1:100783. [PMID: 37567656 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2023.100783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Acquisition of developmental competence is a complex process in which many cell types cooperate to support oocyte maturation, fertilisation, and preimplantation embryonic development. In recent years, compelling evidence has shown that Progesterone Receptor Membra Component 1 (PGRMC1) is expressed in many cell types of the mammalian reproductive system where it exerts diverse functions. In the ovary, PGRMC1 affects follicular growth by controlling cell viability and proliferation of granulosa cells. PGRMC1 has also a direct role in promoting a proper completion of bovine oocyte maturation, as altering its function leads to defective chromosome segregation and polar body extrusion. Strikingly, the mechanism by which PGRMC1 controls mitotic and meiotic cell division seems to be conserved, involving an association with the spindle apparatus and the chromosomal passenger complex through Aurora kinase B. Conclusive data on a possible role of PGRMC1 in the preimplantation embryo are lacking and further research is needed to test whether the mechanisms that are set in place in mitotic cells also govern blastomere cleavage and subsequent differentiation. Finally, PGRMC1 is also expressed in oviductal cells and, as such, it might also impact fertilisation and early embryonic development, although this issue is completely unexplored. However, the study of PGRMC1 function in the mammalian reproductive system remains a complex matter, due to its pleiotropic function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V Lodde
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via dell'Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy.
| | - A M Luciano
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via dell'Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - R Garcia Barros
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via dell'Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - G Giovanardi
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via dell'Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - G Sivelli
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via dell'Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - F Franciosi
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, via dell'Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Enhanced progesterone support during stimulated cycles of transvaginal follicular aspiration improves bovine in vitro embryo production. Theriogenology 2023; 199:77-85. [PMID: 36706702 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The in vitro production (IVP) of cattle embryos requires that germinal-vesicle stage oocytes undergo a period of maturation in vitro prior to fertilization and culture to the blastocyst stage. Success of IVP in taurine cattle is enhanced following ovarian stimulation prior to oocyte retrieval (OPU), particularly if preceded by a short period of FSH withdrawal ('coasting'). However, evidence regarding the importance of progesterone (P4) support during OPU-IVP is equivocal. The current study, therefore, determined the effects of increased peripheral P4 concentrations during FSH-stimulated ('coasted') cycles of OPU. Progesterone support was provided by either an active corpus luteum (CL) and/or one of two intravaginal P4 releasing devices (i.e., CIDR® [1.38 g P4] or PRID® Delta [1.55 g P4]). Expt. 1 established an initial estrus prior to OPU, allowing CL formation (single luteal phase) spanning the first two of five cycles of OPU; the remaining three cycles were supported by either a CIDR® or PRID® Delta. Expt. 2 commenced with two cycles of dominant follicle removal (including prostaglandin F2α) undertaken seven days apart prior to six cycles of OPU. The absence of a CL meant that these cycles were supported only by a CIDR® or PRID® Delta. As each experiment involved several sequential cycles of OPU, the cumulative effects of device use on vaginal discharges were also assessed. Each experiment involved 10 sexually mature Holstein heifers. In the absence of a CL, peak plasma P4 concentrations were greater (P = 0.002) for the PRID® Delta (4.3 ± 0.22) than for the CIDR® (2.9 ± 0.22). In Expt. 1 there was an interaction (P < 0.05) between CL presence at OPU and P4 device on Day 8 blastocyst yields, indicating an effect of P4 device only when the CL was absent. The percentage hatching/hatched blastocysts of matured oocytes for the CIDR® and PRID® Delta was 44.3 ± 5.04 and 41.0 ± 5.40 in the presence, and 17.1 ± 3.48 and 42.2 ± 3.76 in the absence, of a CL (P = 0.018). Combined analyses of data from Expt. 1 and 2, when no CL was present, confirmed that Day 8 blastocyst yields were greater (P = 0.022) for the PRID® Delta than the CIDR®. Vaginal discharge scores were higher (P < 0.001) for the PRID® Delta than the CIDR® in Expt. 1 but not in Expt 2; however scores were low, did not increase with repeated use, and thus were deemed of no clinical or welfare concern. In conclusion, enhanced P4 support during FSH-stimulated cycles of OPU-IVP can improve in vitro embryo development.
Collapse
|
13
|
Garcia Barros R, Lodde V, Franciosi F, Luciano AM. A refined culture system of oocytes from early antral follicles promotes oocyte maturation and embryo development in cattle. Reproduction 2023; 165:221-233. [PMID: 36473031 DOI: 10.1530/rep-22-0277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In brief The proposed culture system improves the current state of in vitro culture of growing oocytes in the bovine species and allows access to the untapped gamete reserve, thus improving reproductive efficiency. Abstract The present study aimed to improve the in vitro culture of bovine oocytes collected from early antral follicles (EAFs) to support the progressive acquisition of meiotic and developmental competence. The rationale that drove the development of such a culture system was to maintain as much as possible the physiological conditions that support the oocyte growth and differentiation in vivo. To this extent, oocytes were cultured for 5 days, which parallels the transition from early to medium antral follicles (MAFs) in the bovine, and supports promoting a 3D-like structure were provided. Additionally, the main hormones (follicle-stimulating hormone, estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone) were added in concentrations similar to the ones previously observed in bovine EAFs. The meiotic arrest was imposed using cilostamide. The cultured cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) reached a mean diameter of 113.4 ± 0.75 µm and showed a progressive condensation of the chromatin enclosed in the germinal vesicle (GV), together with a gradual decrease in the global transcriptional activity, measured by 5-ethynyl uridine incorporation. The described morpho-functional changes were accompanied by an increased ability to mature and develop to the blastocyst stage in vitro, although not matching the rates obtained by MAF-retrieved oocytes. The described system improves the current state of in vitro culture of growing oocytes in the bovine species, and it can be used to increase the number of gametes usable for in vitro embryo production in animals of high genetic merit or with specific desirable traits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Garcia Barros
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory (Redbiolab), Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Lodde
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory (Redbiolab), Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Franciosi
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory (Redbiolab), Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Maria Luciano
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory (Redbiolab), Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Luciano AM, Franciosi F, Dey P, Ladron De Guevara M, Monferini N, Bonumallu SKN, Musmeci G, Fagali Franchi F, Garcia Barros R, Colombo M, Lodde V. Progress toward species-tailored prematuration approaches in carnivores. Theriogenology 2023; 196:202-213. [PMID: 36423514 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
In the past four decades, the bovine model has been highly informative and inspiring to assisted reproductive technologies (ART) in other species. Most of the recent advances in ART have come from studies in cattle, particularly those unveiling the importance of several processes that must be recapitulated in vitro to ensure the proper development of the oocyte. The maintenance of structural and functional communications between the cumulus cells and the oocyte and a well-orchestrated chromatin remodeling with the gradual silencing of transcriptional activity represent essential processes for the progressive acquisition of oocyte developmental competence. These markers are now considered the milestones of physiological approaches to increase the efficiency of reproductive technologies. Different in vitro approaches have been proposed. In particular, the so-called "pre-IVM" or "prematuration" is a culture step performed before in vitro maturation (IVM) to support the completion of the oocyte differentiation process. Although these attempts only partially improved the embryo quality and yield, they currently represent a proof of principle that oocytes retrieved from an ovary or an ovarian batch shouldn't be treated as a whole and that tailored approaches can be developed for culturing competent oocytes in several species, including humans. An advancement in ART's efficiency would be desirable in carnivores, where the success is still limited. Since the progress in reproductive medicine has often come from comparative studies, this review highlights aspects that have been critical in other species and how they may be extended to carnivores.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Maria Luciano
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, 26900, Lodi, Italy.
| | - Federica Franciosi
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Pritha Dey
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Magdalena Ladron De Guevara
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Noemi Monferini
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Sai Kamal Nag Bonumallu
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Giulia Musmeci
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Fernanda Fagali Franchi
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Rodrigo Garcia Barros
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Martina Colombo
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Valentina Lodde
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Milan, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Hirano-Maeda Y, Ojima D, Kanematsu M. Molecular characterization of Vasa homolog in the pen shell Atrina pectinata: cDNA cloning and expression analysis during gonadal development. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2023; 263:110798. [PMID: 36064136 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2022.110798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Vasa is an ATP-dependent RNA helicase of the DEAD (Asp-Glu-Ala-Asp) box family and a representative component of the germ plasm. In this study, we cloned the full-length vasa homolog in the bivalve Atrina pectinata (psvasa), and performed phylogenetic analysis, mRNA expression analysis for tissue-specific distributions, and immunostaining analysis to reveal its histological localization. The sequence of psvasa was 3587 bp in length and contained a 5' untranslated region of 150 bp, an open reading frame of 2214 bp, and a 3' untranslated region of 1223 bp. The deduced amino acid sequence of psvasa was 737 amino acids long and contained evolutionarily conserved sequences reported in other animals. The mRNA expression analysis showed the highest expression levels in the gonads. Expression was especially high in the ovaries, followed by the testes. The immunostaining analysis showed Vasa-positive cells in the developing gonads, suggesting the presence of putative germ stem cells contributing to the supply of germ cells. Furthermore, characteristic Vasa signals were observed in the basophilic nuclei of the oocytes, suggesting that psvasa plays an important role in the progression of meiosis in oocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Hirano-Maeda
- Momoshima Field Station, Fisheries Technology Institute (FTI), Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency (FRA), Onomichi, Hiroshima 722-0061, Japan.
| | - Daisuke Ojima
- Momoshima Field Station, Fisheries Technology Institute (FTI), Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency (FRA), Onomichi, Hiroshima 722-0061, Japan
| | - Masaei Kanematsu
- Momoshima Field Station, Fisheries Technology Institute (FTI), Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency (FRA), Onomichi, Hiroshima 722-0061, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Marchais M, Gilbert I, Bastien A, Macaulay A, Robert C. Mammalian cumulus-oocyte complex communication: a dialog through long and short distance messaging. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:1011-1025. [PMID: 35499777 PMCID: PMC9107539 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02438-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Communications are crucial to ovarian follicle development and to ovulation, and while both folliculogenesis and oogenesis are distinct processes, they share highly interdependent signaling pathways. Signals from distant organs such as the brain must be processed and compartments within the follicle have to be synchronized. The hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis relies on long-distance signalling analogous to wireless communication by which data is disseminated in the environment and cells equipped with the appropriate receptors receive and interpret the messages. In contrast, direct cell-to-cell transfer of molecules is a very targeted, short distance messaging system. Numerous signalling pathways have been identified and proven to be essential for the production of a developmentally competent egg. The development of the cumulus-oocyte complex relies largely on short distance communications or direct transfer type via extensions of corona radiata cells through the zona pellucida. The type of information transmitted through these transzonal projections is still largely uncharacterized. This review provides an overview of current understanding of the mechanisms by which the gamete receives and transmits information within the follicle. Moreover, it highlights the fact that in addition to the well-known systemic long-distance based communications from the HPG axis, these mechanisms acting more locally should also be considered as important targets for controlling/optimizing oocyte quality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Marchais
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Réseau Québécois en Reproduction (RQR), Pavillon Paul Comtois, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Isabelle Gilbert
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Réseau Québécois en Reproduction (RQR), Pavillon Paul Comtois, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Alexandre Bastien
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Réseau Québécois en Reproduction (RQR), Pavillon Paul Comtois, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Angus Macaulay
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Réseau Québécois en Reproduction (RQR), Pavillon Paul Comtois, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Claude Robert
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Réseau Québécois en Reproduction (RQR), Pavillon Paul Comtois, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Buratini J, Soares ACS, Barros RG, Dellaqua TT, Lodde V, Franciosi F, Dal Canto M, Renzini MM, Luciano AM. Physiological parameters related to oocyte nuclear differentiation for the improvement of IVM/IVF outcomes in women and cattle. Reprod Fertil Dev 2022; 34:27-35. [PMID: 35231269 DOI: 10.1071/rd21278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro maturation (IVM) has been applied in numerous different contexts and strategies in humans and animals, but in both cases it represents a challenge still far from being overcome. Despite the large dataset produced over the last two decades on the mechanisms that govern antral follicular development and oocyte metabolism and differentiation, IVM outcomes are still unsatisfactory. This review specifically focuses on data concerning the potential consequences of using supraphysiological levels of FSH during IVM, as well as on the regulation of oocyte chromatin dynamics and its utility as a potential marker of oocyte developmental competence. Taken together, the data revisited herein indicate that a significant improvement in IVM efficacy may be provided by the integration of pre-OPU patient-specific protocols preparing the oocyte population for IVM and more physiological culture systems mimicking more precisely the follicular environment that would be experienced by the recovered oocytes until completion of metaphase II.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jose Buratini
- Biogenesi Reproductive Medicine Centre - Eugin Group, Istituti Clinici Zucchi, Monza, Italy; and Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Sao Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil
| | | | - Rodrigo Garcia Barros
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Thaisy Tino Dellaqua
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Sao Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Valentina Lodde
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Franciosi
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Mario Mignini Renzini
- Biogenesi Reproductive Medicine Centre - Eugin Group, Istituti Clinici Zucchi, Monza, Italy
| | - Alberto Maria Luciano
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Buratini J, Dellaqua TT, Dal Canto M, La Marca A, Carone D, Mignini Renzini M, Webb R. The putative roles of FSH and AMH in the regulation of oocyte developmental competence: from fertility prognosis to mechanisms underlying age-related subfertility. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 28:232-254. [PMID: 34969065 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fertility loss during female ageing is associated with increasing basal FSH and decreasing anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) concentrations, together with compromised oocyte quality, presumably due to increased oxidative stress (OS) and DNA damage, as well as reduced metabolic and meiotic competences. Basal FSH and AMH circulatory concentrations have been broadly utilized as IVF success predictors, regardless of fluctuations in prognostic accuracy; basal FSH and AMH perform better in pre-advanced maternal age (AMA: >35 years) and AMA patients, respectively. The relationships between FSH and AMH intrafollicular levels and IVF outcomes suggest, nevertheless, that both hormones regulate oocyte competence, supporting the hypothesis that changes in FSH/AMH levels cause, at least in part, oocyte quality degradation during ageing. To understand the reasons behind the fluctuations in FSH and AMH prognostic accuracies and to clarify their participation in mechanisms determining oocyte competence and age-related subfertility, a deeper knowledge of the regulation of FSH and AMH intrafollicular signalling during the female reproductive lifespan, and of their effects on the cumulus-oocyte complex, is required. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE An extensive body of information on the regulation of FSH and AMH intrafollicular availability and signalling, as well as on the control of folliculogenesis and oocyte metabolism, has been accumulated. However, these datasets have been explored within the relatively narrow boundaries of their specific subjects. Given the aforementioned gaps in knowledge and their clinical relevance, herein we integrate clinical and basic data, within a wide biological perspective, aiming to shed light on (i) the reasons for the variability in the accuracy of serum FSH and AMH as fertility markers, and on (ii) the potential roles of these hormones in mechanisms regulating oocyte quality, particularly those associated with ageing. SEARCH METHODS The PubMed database encompassing the period between 1960 and 2021 was searched. Principal search terms were FSH, FSH receptor, AMH, oocyte, maternal age, cumulus, transzonal projections (TZPs), actin, OS, redox, reactive oxygen species, mitochondria, DNA damage, DNA repair, aneuploidy, spindle, meiosis, gene expression, transcription, translation, oocyte secreted factors (OSFs), cAMP, cyclic guanosine monophosphate, natriuretic peptide C, growth differentiation factor 9, bone morphogenetic protein 15 and fibroblast growth factor. OUTCOMES Our analysis suggests that variations in the accuracy of fertility prognosis reflect a modest association between circulatory AMH levels and oocyte quality as well as increasing basal FSH inter-cycle variability with age. In addition, the basic and clinical data articulated herein support the hypothesis that increased intrafollicular FSH levels, as maternal age advances, may override the physiological protective influences of AMH and OSFs against excessive FSH signalling in cumulus cells. This would result in the disruption of oocyte homeostasis via reduced TZP-mediated transfer of cumulus-derived molecules essential for meiotic competence, gene expression, redox activity and DNA repair. WIDER IMPLICATIONS In-depth data analysis, encompassing a wide biological perspective has revealed potential causative mechanisms of age-related subfertility triggered by alterations in FSH/AMH signalling during the female reproductive life. Insights from new mechanistic models arising from this analysis should contribute to advancing our comprehension of oocyte biology in humans and serve as a valuable reference for novel AMA subfertility treatments aimed at improving oocyte quality through the modulation of AMH/FSH action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jose Buratini
- Biogenesi Reproductive Medicine Centre-Eugin Group, Istituti Clinici Zucchi, Monza, Italy.,Clinica Eugin Modena, Modena, Italy.,Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Sao Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Thaisy Tino Dellaqua
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Sao Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Mariabeatrice Dal Canto
- Biogenesi Reproductive Medicine Centre-Eugin Group, Istituti Clinici Zucchi, Monza, Italy.,Clinica Eugin Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonio La Marca
- Clinica Eugin Modena, Modena, Italy.,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of the Mother, Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | | | - Mario Mignini Renzini
- Biogenesi Reproductive Medicine Centre-Eugin Group, Istituti Clinici Zucchi, Monza, Italy.,Clinica Eugin Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Robert Webb
- Division of Animal Sciences, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, UK
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Robert C. Nurturing the egg: the essential connection between cumulus cells and the oocyte. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 34:149-159. [PMID: 35231386 DOI: 10.1071/rd21282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The determinants of oocyte quality remain uncertain. Under suitable conditions, which have yet to be defined, the gamete grows and acquires the competence to resume meiosis, be fertilised and undergo embryonic development at least beyond genome activation, after which the blastomere is autonomous enough to adapt to the specificity of its environment. This review describes the central role played by the oocyte in reproductive success and how communication between cumulus cells and the oocyte are essential to proper oogenesis and the quality of the resulting gamete. While most attempts to improve oocyte quality have been directed at gonadotrophin-based systemic endocrine signalling, it is proposed that parallel control of fertility may act locally within ovarian follicles through intimate cooperation between somatic cells and the oocyte via the network of transzonal projections. This intercellular communication may prove to be more sensitive to environmental conditions than systemic endocrine signalling, which is essential for many non-reproductive tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claude Robert
- Département des sciences animales, Faculté des sciences de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Luciano AM, Barros RG, Soares ACS, Buratini J, Lodde V, Franciosi F. Recreating the Follicular Environment: A Customized Approach for In Vitro Culture of Bovine Oocytes Based on the Origin and Differentiation State. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2273:1-15. [PMID: 33604842 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1246-0_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The mammalian ovary is a large source of oocytes organized into follicles at various stages of folliculogenesis. However, only a limited number of them can be used for in vitro embryo production (IVEP), while most have yet to complete growth and development to attain full meiotic and embryonic developmental competence. While the in vitro growth of primordial follicles in the ovarian cortex has the potential to produce mature oocytes, it is still at an experimental stage. The population of early antral follicles (EAFs), instead, may represent a reserve of oocytes close to completing the growth phase, which might be more easily exploited in vitro and could increase the number of female gametes dedicated to IVEP.Here we present in vitro culture strategies that have been developed utilizing physiological parameters to support the specific needs of oocytes at distinct stages of differentiation, in order to expand the source of female gametes for IVEP by maximizing the attainment of fertilizable oocytes. Furthermore, these culture systems provide powerful tools to dissect the molecular processes that direct the final differentiation of the mammalian oocyte.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Maria Luciano
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| | - Rodrigo Garcia Barros
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Ana Caroline Silva Soares
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Sao Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Jose Buratini
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Sao Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil.,Biogenesi, Reproductive Medicine Centre, Monza, Italy
| | - Valentina Lodde
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Federica Franciosi
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Bezerra FTG, Dau AMP, Van Den Hurk R, Silva JRV. Molecular characteristics of oocytes and somatic cells of follicles at different sizes that influence in vitro oocyte maturation and embryo production. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2021; 74:106485. [PMID: 32858464 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2020.106485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Revised: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
During the last 10 to 15 yr, in vitro research to predict antral follicle growth and oocyte maturation has delivered interesting advances in the knowledge of processes regulating follicle growth and developmental competence of oocytes. This review discusses the contribution of cumulus and mural granulosa cells in the process of oocyte maturation and cumulus expansion in cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) from follicles of different sizes and shows that differences in gene expression in oocytes, granulosa, and theca cells of small and large follicles impact the success of in vitro blastocyst development. In addition, the molecular mechanisms by which COC metabolism and antioxidant defense provide oocyte competence are highlighted. Furthermore, new insights and perspectives on molecular and cellular regulation of in vitro oocyte maturation are emphasized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F T G Bezerra
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Graduation School of Biotechnology, Federal University of Ceara, Campus of Sobral, Sobral, Ceará, Brazil
| | - A M P Dau
- Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Rio Grande do Sul, Rolante, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - R Van Den Hurk
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - J R V Silva
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Graduation School of Biotechnology, Federal University of Ceara, Campus of Sobral, Sobral, Ceará, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Richani D, Dunning KR, Thompson JG, Gilchrist RB. Metabolic co-dependence of the oocyte and cumulus cells: essential role in determining oocyte developmental competence. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 27:27-47. [PMID: 33020823 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Within the antral follicle, the oocyte is reliant on metabolic support from its surrounding somatic cells. Metabolism plays a critical role in oocyte developmental competence (oocyte quality). In the last decade, there has been significant progress in understanding the metabolism of the cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) during its final stages of growth and maturation in the follicle. Certain metabolic conditions (e.g. obesity) or ART (e.g. IVM) perturb COC metabolism, providing insights into metabolic regulation of oocyte quality. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review provides an update on the progress made in our understanding of COC metabolism, and the metabolic conditions that influence both meiotic and developmental competence of the oocyte. SEARCH METHODS The PubMed database was used to search for peer-reviewed original and review articles. Searches were performed adopting the main terms 'oocyte metabolism', 'cumulus cell metabolism', 'oocyte maturation', 'oocyte mitochondria', 'oocyte metabolism', 'oocyte developmental competence' and 'oocyte IVM'. OUTCOMES Metabolism is a major determinant of oocyte quality. Glucose is an essential requirement for both meiotic and cytoplasmic maturation of the COC. Glucose is the driver of cumulus cell metabolism and is essential for energy production, extracellular matrix formation and supply of pyruvate to the oocyte for ATP production. Mitochondria are the primary source of ATP production within the oocyte. Recent advances in real-time live cell imaging reveal dynamic fluctuations in ATP demand throughout oocyte maturation. Cumulus cells have been shown to play a central role in maintaining adequate oocyte ATP levels by providing metabolic support through gap junctional communication. New insights have highlighted the importance of oocyte lipid metabolism for oocyte oxidative phosphorylation for ATP production, meiotic progression and developmental competence. Within the last decade, several new strategies for improving the developmental competence of oocytes undergoing IVM have emerged, including modulation of cyclic nucleotides, the addition of precursors for the antioxidant glutathione or endogenous maturation mediators such as epidermal growth factor-like peptides and growth differentiation factor 9/bone morphogenetic protein 15. These IVM additives positively alter COC metabolic endpoints commonly associated with oocyte competence. There remain significant challenges in the study of COC metabolism. Owing to the paucity in non-invasive or in situ techniques to assess metabolism, most work to date has used in vitro or ex vivo models. Additionally, the difficulty of measuring oocyte and cumulus cell metabolism separately while still in a complex has led to the frequent use of denuded oocytes, the results from which should be interpreted with caution since the oocyte and cumulus cell compartments are metabolically interdependent, and oocytes do not naturally exist in a naked state until after fertilization. There are emerging tools, including live fluorescence imaging and photonics probes, which may provide ways to measure the dynamic nature of metabolism in a single oocyte, potentially while in situ. WIDER IMPLICATIONS There is an association between oocyte metabolism and oocyte developmental competence. Advancing our understanding of basic cellular and biochemical mechanisms regulating oocyte metabolism may identify new avenues to augment oocyte quality and assess developmental potential in assisted reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dulama Richani
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Fertility & Research Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kylie R Dunning
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Jeremy G Thompson
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Robert B Gilchrist
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Fertility & Research Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Bogolyubova I, Bogolyubov D. Heterochromatin Morphodynamics in Late Oogenesis and Early Embryogenesis of Mammals. Cells 2020; 9:cells9061497. [PMID: 32575486 PMCID: PMC7348780 DOI: 10.3390/cells9061497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
During the period of oocyte growth, chromatin undergoes global rearrangements at both morphological and molecular levels. An intriguing feature of oogenesis in some mammalian species is the formation of a heterochromatin ring-shaped structure, called the karyosphere or surrounded "nucleolus", which is associated with the periphery of the nucleolus-like bodies (NLBs). Morphologically similar heterochromatin structures also form around the nucleolus-precursor bodies (NPBs) in zygotes and persist for several first cleavage divisions in blastomeres. Despite recent progress in our understanding the regulation of gene silencing/expression during early mammalian development, as well as the molecular mechanisms that underlie chromatin condensation and heterochromatin structure, the biological significance of the karyosphere and its counterparts in early embryos is still elusive. We pay attention to both the changes of heterochromatin morphology and to the molecular mechanisms that can affect the configuration and functional activity of chromatin. We briefly discuss how DNA methylation, post-translational histone modifications, alternative histone variants, and some chromatin-associated non-histone proteins may be involved in the formation of peculiar heterochromatin structures intimately associated with NLBs and NPBs, the unique nuclear bodies of oocytes and early embryos.
Collapse
|
24
|
Soares ACS, Marques KNG, Bragança LGM, Lodde V, Luciano AM, Buratini J. Synchronization of germinal vesicle maturity improves efficacy of in vitro embryo production in Holstein cows. Theriogenology 2020; 154:53-58. [PMID: 32480064 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.05.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Germinal vesicle oocytes obtained by ovum pick-up (OPU) on a random day are heterogeneous in terms of chromatin maturity, and those with an intermediate degree of chromatin compaction present higher developmental competence. We previously developed a synchronization protocol combining follicle aspiration and FSH treatment capable of increasing the percentage of oocytes with intermediate chromatin compaction (classified as GV2 oocytes; within progressive stages of chromatin compaction ranging from GV0 to GV3) at the time of OPU. In this study, we tested the capacity of a similar protocol to synchronize oocyte chromatin maturity before OPU, as well as to improve the efficacy of in vitro embryo production (IVP) in Holstein cows. In the first experiment, eight non-lactating Holstein cows were subjected to the D5/4FSH, during which all follicles larger than 2 mm were aspirated and a progesterone intravaginal device was inserted on a random day (day 0). Subsequently, four IM injections of FSH (Folltropin; 40/40/20/20 mg) were administered 12h apart on days 2 and 3, and removal of the progesterone device and OPU were performed on day 5. Of the oocytes recovered by OPU, 83.2% were at the GV2 stage. In a second experiment, eighteen non-lactating Holstein cows (Synchro group) were subjected to the D5/4FSH protocol followed by IVM/IVF, and embryo production was compared with that of other seventeen cows submitted to OPU on a random day followed by IVM/IVF (Control group). Blastocyst rate in relation to total oocytes recovered was higher in the Synchro group (37.9%) compared to the Control group (21%; P < 0.05). The percentage of good quality blastocysts morphologically selected for freezing and later transfer in relation to the total number of oocytes recovered tended to be higher in the Synchro group (27.68%) compared to the Control group (14.34%; P = 0.1). These data suggest that synchronization protocols increasing the percentage of GV2 oocytes in the population subjected to IVM/IVF can improve the efficacy of embryo in vitro production in cattle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Caroline Silva Soares
- Ovarian Molecular Physiology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, Sao Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil.
| | | | | | - Valentina Lodde
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Maria Luciano
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Jose Buratini
- Ovarian Molecular Physiology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, Sao Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil; Biogenesi, Reproductive Medicine Centre, Monza, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Participation of the adenosine salvage pathway and cyclic AMP modulation in oocyte energy metabolism. Sci Rep 2019; 9:18395. [PMID: 31804531 PMCID: PMC6895058 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-54693-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
A follicular spike in cyclic AMP (cAMP) and its subsequent degradation to AMP promotes oocyte maturation and ovulation. In vitro matured (IVM) oocytes do not receive the cAMP increase that occurs in vivo, and artificial elevation of cAMP in IVM cumulus-oocyte complexes improves oocyte developmental potential. This study examined whether mouse oocytes can use the cAMP degradation product AMP to generate ATP via the adenosine salvage pathway, and examined whether pharmacological elevation of cAMP in IVM cumulus-oocyte complexes alters ATP levels. Oocytes cultured with isotopic 13C5-AMP dose-dependently produced 13C5-ATP, however total cellular ATP remained constant. Pharmacological elevation of cAMP using forskolin and IBMX prior to IVM decreased oocyte ATP and ATP:ADP ratio, and promoted activity of the energy regulator AMPK. Conversely, cumulus cells exhibited higher ATP and no change in AMPK. Culture of oocytes without their cumulus cells or inhibition of their gap-junctional communication yielded lower oocyte 13C5-ATP, indicating that cumulus cells facilitate ATP production via the adenosine salvage pathway. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that mouse oocytes can generate ATP from AMP via the adenosine salvage pathway, and cAMP elevation alters adenine nucleotide metabolism and may provide AMP for energy production via the adenosine salvage pathway during the energetically demanding process of meiotic maturation.
Collapse
|
26
|
Pleiotropic effects of alpha-SNAP M105I mutation on oocyte biology: ultrastructural and cellular changes that adversely affect female fertility in mice. Sci Rep 2019; 9:17374. [PMID: 31758001 PMCID: PMC6874563 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-53574-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
After sperm-oocyte fusion, cortical granules (CGs) located in oocyte cortex undergo exocytosis and their content is released into the perivitelline space to avoid polyspermy. Thus, cortical granule exocytosis (CGE) is a key process for fertilization success. We have demonstrated that alpha-SNAP -and its functional partner NSF- mediate fusion of CGs with the plasma membrane in mouse oocytes. Here, we examined at cellular and ultrastructural level oocytes from hyh (hydrocephalus with hop gait) mice, which present a missense mutation in the Napa gene that results in the substitution of methionine for isoleucine at position 105 (M105I) of alpha-SNAP. Mutated alpha-SNAP was mislocalized in hyh oocytes while NSF expression increased during oocyte maturation. Staining of CGs showed that 9.8% of hyh oocytes had abnormal localization of CGs and oval shape. Functional tests showed that CGE was impaired in hyh oocytes. Interestingly, in vitro fertilization assays showed a decreased fertilization rate for hyh oocytes. Furthermore, fertilized hyh oocytes presented an increased polyspermy rate compared to wild type ones. At ultrastructural level, hyh oocytes showed small mitochondria and a striking accumulation and secretion of degradative structures. Our findings demonstrate the negative effects of alpha-SNAP M105 mutation on oocyte biology and further confirm the relevance of alpha-SNAP in female fertility.
Collapse
|
27
|
Gad A, Nemcova L, Murin M, Kinterova V, Kanka J, Laurincik J, Benc M, Pendovski L, Prochazka R. Global transcriptome analysis of porcine oocytes in correlation with follicle size. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 87:102-114. [PMID: 31736195 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Although our knowledge regarding oocyte quality and development has improved significantly, the molecular mechanisms that regulate and determine oocyte developmental competence are still unclear. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify and analyze the transcriptome profiles of porcine oocytes derived from large or small follicles using RNA high-throughput sequencing technology. RNA libraries were constructed from oocytes of large (LO; 3-6 mm) or small (SO; 1.5-1.9 mm) ovarian follicles and then sequenced in an Illumina HiSeq4000. Transcriptome analysis showed a total of 14,557 genes were commonly detected in both oocyte groups. Genes related to the cell cycle, oocyte meiosis, and quality were among the top highly expressed genes in both groups. Differential expression analysis revealed 60 up- and 262 downregulated genes in the LO compared with the SO group. BRCA2, GPLD1, ZP3, ND3, and ND4L were among the highly abundant and highly significant differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The ontological classification of DEGs indicated that protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum was the top enriched pathway. In addition, biological processes related to cell growth and signaling, gene expression regulations, cytoskeleton, and extracellular matrix organization were among the highly enriched processes. In conclusion, this study provides new insights into the global transcriptome changes and the abundance of specific transcripts in porcine oocytes in correlation with follicle size.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Gad
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic.,Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Lucie Nemcova
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
| | - Matej Murin
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
| | - Veronika Kinterova
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Kanka
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
| | - Jozef Laurincik
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic.,Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Michal Benc
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, Slovak Republic.,Biology of Reproduction Department, Institute of Animal Science, Prague, Uhrineves, Czech Republic
| | - Lazo Pendovski
- Department of Functional Morphology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Skopje, Republic of Macedonia
| | - Radek Prochazka
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Characterization and control of oocyte large-scale chromatin configuration in different cattle breeds. Theriogenology 2019; 141:146-152. [PMID: 31541784 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Revised: 09/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Differences in reproductive physiology between cattle breeds may help to explain distinct responses to assisted reproductive techniques and to define breed-specific protocols with improved efficiency. Germinal vesicle (GV) stage oocytes are characterized by increasing levels of chromatin compaction enclosed within the nucleus (graded from GV0 to GV3), associated with different developmental competence. The first objective of this study was to characterize chromatin configuration of GV stage oocytes recovered by OPU at random days of the estrous cycle from Nelore (Bos indicus) and Holstein (Bos taurus) cows. In Nelore 90% of the oocytes presented advanced stages of chromatin compaction associated with higher developmental competence (GV2 and GV3), while in Holstein, only 65% of the oocytes were at these stages. Then, aiming to obtain a more homogeneous population of oocytes in Holstein, we tested two synchronization protocols combining aspiration of all visible follicles at a random day (day 0), two IM injections of FSH 12 h apart on day 2, and OPU on day 4 (OPU/D4) or 5 (OPU/D5). The protocol OPU/D4 provided around 45% of the oocytes with low chromatin compaction (GV1), while the protocol OPU/D5 provided 70% of the oocytes at GV2 and 20% at GV3. Finally, we assessed the effects of a culture system known to prevent meiotic resumption on chromatin configuration of the GV2 enriched oocyte population obtained with the protocol OPU/D5. After 9 h of culture most oocytes transited from GV2 to GV3, with 90% of the oocytes at GV3 stage. This study demonstrates differences between Nelore and Holstein cows regarding patterns of chromatin configuration that may account for their different performance in IVM/IVF. In addition, it provides novel references for the design of protocols aiming to regulate oocyte quality before IVM for the optimization of IVF outcomes.
Collapse
|
29
|
Cocero MJ, Marigorta P, Novillo F, Folch J, Sánchez P, Alabart JL, Lahoz B. Ovine oocytes display a similar germinal vesicle configuration and global DNA methylation at prepubertal and adult ages. Theriogenology 2019; 138:154-163. [PMID: 31357118 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic mechanisms are thought to be involved in the reduced developmental capacity of early prepubertal ewe oocytes compared to their adult counterparts. In this study, we have analyzed the global DNA methylation pattern and in vitro meiotic and developmental competence of oocytes at the germinal vesicle (GV) stage obtained from adult and 3-month-old donors. All oocytes were aspirated from antral follicles with a diameter ≥3 mm, and DNA methylation on 5-methylcytosine was detected by immunofluorescence using an anti-methyl cytosine antibody. The main global chromatin configuration pattern shown by both prepubertal and adult ovine oocytes corresponded to condensed chromatin localized close to the nuclear envelope (the SNE pattern). Immunofluorescence showed that a global bright nuclear staining of 5-methylcytosine (5-mC) occurred in all germinal vesicle stage oocytes and matched the propidium iodide staining pattern. The total fluorescence intensity values of lamb GVs were not lower than those observed in adult GVs. The meiotic competence and cleavage rates were similar in adult and prepubertal oocytes, however, the developmental competence of embryos to reach blastocysts was higher for adult oocytes than lamb oocytes (p<0.0001). In conclusion, our results indicate that adult-size oocytes derived from 3 to 4 month old prepubertal ewes show similar GV morphology and DNA methylation staining patterns to those obtained from adult animals, despite exhibiting a lower developmental competence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María J Cocero
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Avenida Puerta de Hierro 12 local 10, 28040, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Pilar Marigorta
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Avenida Puerta de Hierro 12 local 10, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando Novillo
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Avenida Puerta de Hierro 12 local 10, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Folch
- Unidad de Producción y Sanidad Animal, Centro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria de Aragón (CITA), Gobierno de Aragón, Av. Montañana 930, 50059, Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), Spain
| | - Pilar Sánchez
- Unidad de Producción y Sanidad Animal, Centro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria de Aragón (CITA), Gobierno de Aragón, Av. Montañana 930, 50059, Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), Spain
| | - José L Alabart
- Unidad de Producción y Sanidad Animal, Centro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria de Aragón (CITA), Gobierno de Aragón, Av. Montañana 930, 50059, Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), Spain
| | - Belén Lahoz
- Unidad de Producción y Sanidad Animal, Centro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria de Aragón (CITA), Gobierno de Aragón, Av. Montañana 930, 50059, Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), Spain
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Cavalera F, Simovic M, Zanoni M, Merico V, Garagna S, Zuccotti M. IVM of mouse fully grown germinal vesicle oocytes upon a feeder layer of selected cumulus cells enhances their developmental competence. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 31:1068-1077. [PMID: 30922442 DOI: 10.1071/rd18444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In the ovary, acquisition of oocyte developmental competence depends on a bidirectional exchange between the gamete and its companion cumulus cells (CCs). In this study we investigated the contribution of CCs surrounding oocytes of known developmental competence or incompetence to the acquisition of oocyte developmental competence. To this end, feeder layers of CCs (FL-CCs) were prepared using CCs isolated either from: (1) developmentally competent mouse oocytes whose nucleolus was surrounded by a chromatin ring (FL-SN-CCs); or (2) developmentally incompetent mouse oocytes whose nucleolus was not surrounded by a chromatin ring (FL-NSN-CCs). Denuded, fully grown oocytes (DOs) were matured to the MII stage on either FL-SN-CCs or FL-NSN-CCs, inseminated with spermatozoa and cultured throughout preimplantation development. FL-SN-CCs significantly improved the acquisition of oocyte developmental competence, with a blastocyst development rate equal to that for maturation of intact cumulus-oocyte-complexes. In contrast, DOs matured on FL-NSN-CCs or in the absence of CCs exhibited developmental failure, with embryos arresting at either the 4-cell or morula stage. These results set a culture platform to further improve the protocols for the maturation of DOs and to unravel the molecules involved in the cross-talk between the gamete and its companion CCs during the germinal vesicle to MII transition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federica Cavalera
- Laboratorio di Biologia dello Sviluppo, Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie 'Lazzaro Spallanzani', University of Pavia, Via Ferrata, 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Milena Simovic
- Laboratorio di Biologia dello Sviluppo, Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie 'Lazzaro Spallanzani', University of Pavia, Via Ferrata, 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy; and German Cancer Research Center, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, Heidelberg 69120, Germany
| | - Mario Zanoni
- Laboratorio di Biologia dello Sviluppo, Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie 'Lazzaro Spallanzani', University of Pavia, Via Ferrata, 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Valeria Merico
- Laboratorio di Biologia dello Sviluppo, Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie 'Lazzaro Spallanzani', University of Pavia, Via Ferrata, 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Silvia Garagna
- Laboratorio di Biologia dello Sviluppo, Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie 'Lazzaro Spallanzani', University of Pavia, Via Ferrata, 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy; and Corresponding authors. ;
| | - Maurizio Zuccotti
- Laboratorio di Biologia dello Sviluppo, Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie 'Lazzaro Spallanzani', University of Pavia, Via Ferrata, 9, 27100 Pavia, Italy; and Corresponding authors. ;
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Gad A, Nemcova L, Murin M, Kanka J, Laurincik J, Benc M, Pendovski L, Prochazka R. microRNA expression profile in porcine oocytes with different developmental competence derived from large or small follicles. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:426-439. [PMID: 30756429 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Revised: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Oocyte developmental competence is acquired during folliculogenesis and regulated by complex molecular mechanisms. Several molecules are involved in these mechanisms, including microRNAs (miRNAs) that are essential for oocyte-specific processes throughout the development. The objective of this study was to identify the expression profile of miRNAs in porcine oocytes derived from follicles of different sizes using RNA deep sequencing. Oocytes were aspirated from large (LO; 3-6 mm) or small (SO; 1.5-1.9 mm) follicles and tested for developmental competence and chromatin configurations. Small RNA libraries were constructed from both groups and then sequenced in an Illumina NextSeq. 500. Oocytes from the LO group exhibited higher developmental competence and different chromatin configuration compared with oocytes from the SO group. In total, 167 and 162 known miRNAs were detected in the LO and SO groups, respectively. MiR-205, miR-16, miR-148a-3p, and miR-125b were among the top 10 highly expressed miRNAs in both groups. Eight miRNAs were differentially expressed (DE) between both groups. Target gene prediction and pathway analysis revealed 46 pathways that were enriched with miRNA-target genes. The oocyte meiosis pathway and signaling pathways including FoxO, PI3K-Akt, and cAMP were predictably targeted by DE miRNAs. These results give more insights into the potential role of miRNAs in regulating the oocyte development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Gad
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic.,Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Lucie Nemcova
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
| | - Matej Murin
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Kanka
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
| | - Jozef Laurincik
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic.,Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Michal Benc
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, Slovak Republic.,Biology of Reproduction Department, Institute of Animal Science, Prague, Uhrineves, Czech Republic
| | - Lazo Pendovski
- Department of Functional Morphology, Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Republic of Macedonia
| | - Radek Prochazka
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Zhang J, Zhang YL, Zhao LW, Guo JX, Yu JL, Ji SY, Cao LR, Zhang SY, Shen L, Ou XH, Fan HY. Mammalian nucleolar protein DCAF13 is essential for ovarian follicle maintenance and oocyte growth by mediating rRNA processing. Cell Death Differ 2018; 26:1251-1266. [PMID: 30283081 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-018-0203-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2018] [Revised: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 09/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
During mammalian oocyte growth, chromatin configuration transition from the nonsurrounded nucleolus (NSN) to surrounded nucleolus (SN) type plays a key role in the regulation of gene expression and acquisition of meiotic and developmental competence by the oocyte. Nonetheless, the mechanism underlying chromatin configuration maturation in oocytes is poorly understood. Here we show that nucleolar protein DCAF13 is an important component of the ribosomal RNA (rRNA)-processing complex and is essential for oocyte NSN-SN transition in mice. A conditional knockout of Dcaf13 in oocytes led to the arrest of oocyte development in the NSN configuration, follicular atresia, premature ovarian failure, and female sterility. The DCAF13 deficiency resulted in pre-rRNA accumulation in oocytes, whereas the total mRNA level was not altered. Further exploration showed that DCAF13 participated in the 18S rRNA processing in growing oocytes. The lack of 18S rRNA because of DCAF13 deletion caused a ribosome assembly disorder and then reduced global protein synthesis. DCAF13 interacted with a protein of the core box C/D ribonucleoprotein, fibrillarin, i.e., a factor of early pre-rRNA processing. When fibrillarin was knocked down in the oocytes from primary follicles, follicle development was inhibited as well, indicating that an rRNA processing defect in the oocyte indeed stunts chromatin configuration transition and follicle development. Taken together, these results elucidated the in vivo function of novel nucleolar protein DCAF13 in maintaining mammalian oogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jue Zhang
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yin-Li Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 310016, Hangzhou, China
| | - Long-Wen Zhao
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jing-Xin Guo
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jia-Li Yu
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shu-Yan Ji
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lan-Rui Cao
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, China
| | - Song-Ying Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 310016, Hangzhou, China
| | - Li Shen
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiang-Hong Ou
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Second Hospital of Guangdong Province, China Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Heng-Yu Fan
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, 310058, Hangzhou, China. .,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 310016, Hangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Del Collado M, Andrade GM, Meirelles FV, da Silveira JC, Perecin F. Contributions from the ovarian follicular environment to oocyte function. Anim Reprod 2018; 15:261-270. [PMID: 34178149 PMCID: PMC8202235 DOI: 10.21451/1984-3143-ar2018-0082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The magnitude of oocyte's role for embryo development is categorical. This unique cell contains the machineries and cellular components necessary to remodel male and female chromatin, to sustain early development and to, ultimately, generate a complete and complex individual. However, to gain these competences before fertilization, the oocyte undergoes several morphological, cellular and molecular changes during its lifetime enclosed in the ovarian follicle. This review will briefly revisit how the oocyte orchestrate the follicular cells, and how molecules transit to the oocyte from the innermost (cumulus) and outermost (antrum and granulosa cells) layers surrounding the follicle-enclosed oocyte. Finally, we will discuss the interferences of in vitro culture conditions in the communication of the oocyte with its surrounding cells and the potential strategies to modulate these communication systems to increase oocyte competence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maite Del Collado
- Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Gabriella Mamede Andrade
- Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Flávio Vieira Meirelles
- Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Juliano Coelho da Silveira
- Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Felipe Perecin
- Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Conti M, Franciosi F. Acquisition of oocyte competence to develop as an embryo: integrated nuclear and cytoplasmic events. Hum Reprod Update 2018; 24:245-266. [PMID: 29432538 PMCID: PMC5907346 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmx040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 178] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Revised: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility affects ~7% of couples of reproductive age with little change in incidence in the last two decades. ART, as well as other interventions, have made major strides in correcting this condition. However, and in spite of advancements in the field, the age of the female partner remains a main factor for a successful outcome. A better understanding of the final stages of gamete maturation yielding an egg that can sustain embryo development and a pregnancy to term remains a major area for improvement in the field. This review will summarize the major cellular and molecular events unfolding at the oocyte-to-embryo transition. We will provide an update on the most important processes/pathways currently understood as the basis of developmental competence, including the molecular processes involved in mRNA storage, its recruitment to the translational machinery, and its degradation. We will discuss the hypothesis that the translational programme of maternal mRNAs plays a key role in establishing developmental competence. These regulations are essential to assemble the machinery that is used to establish a totipotent zygote. This hypothesis further supports the view that embryogenesis begins during oogenesis. A better understanding of the events required for developmental competence will guide the development of novel strategies to monitor and improve the success rate of IVF. Using this information, it will be possible to develop new biomarkers that may be used to better predict oocyte quality and in selection of the best egg for IVF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Conti
- Department of OBGYN-RS, University of California San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143-0556, USA
| | - Federica Franciosi
- Department of OBGYN-RS, University of California San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143-0556, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Terzaghi L, Luciano AM, Dall'Acqua PC, Modina SC, Peluso JJ, Lodde V. PGRMC1 localization and putative function in the nucleolus of bovine granulosa cells and oocytes. Reproduction 2018; 155:273-282. [PMID: 29339453 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Progesterone receptor membrane component-1 (PGRMC1) is a highly conserved multifunctional protein that is found in numerous systems, including reproductive system. Interestingly, PGRMC1 is expressed at several intracellular locations, including the nucleolus. The aim of this study is to investigate the functional relationship between PGRMC1 and nucleolus. Immunofluorescence experiments confirmed PGRMC1's nucleolar localization in cultured bovine granulosa cells (bGC) and oocytes. Additional experiments conducted on bGC revealed that PGRMC1 co-localizes with nucleolin (NCL), a major nucleolar protein. Furthermore, small interfering RNA (RNAi)-mediated gene silencing experiments showed that when PGRMC1 expression was depleted, NCL translocated from the nucleolus to the nucleoplasm. Similarly, oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) treatment, reduced PGRMC1 immunofluorescent signal in the nucleolus and increased NCL nucleoplasmic signal, when compared to non-treated cells. Although PGRMC1 influenced NCL localization, a direct interaction between these two proteins was not detected using in situ proximity ligation assay. This suggests the involvement of additional molecules in mediating the co-localization of PGRMC1 and nucleolin. Since nucleolin translocates into the nucleoplasm in response to various cellular stressors, PGRMC1's ability to regulate its localization within the nucleolus is likely an important component of mechanism by which cells response to stress. This concept is consistent with PGRMC1's well-described ability to promote ovarian cell survival and provides a rationale for future studies on PGRMC1, NCL and the molecular mechanism by which these two proteins protect against the adverse effect of cellular stressors, including oxidative stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Terzaghi
- Department of HealthAnimal Science and Food Safety, Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Maria Luciano
- Department of HealthAnimal Science and Food Safety, Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Priscila C Dall'Acqua
- School of Agricultural and Veterinarian SciencesSão Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Silvia C Modina
- Department of HealthAnimal Science and Food Safety, Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - John J Peluso
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Valentina Lodde
- Department of HealthAnimal Science and Food Safety, Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Tatone C, Di Emidio G, Barbonetti A, Carta G, Luciano AM, Falone S, Amicarelli F. Sirtuins in gamete biology and reproductive physiology: emerging roles and therapeutic potential in female and male infertility. Hum Reprod Update 2018; 24:267-289. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmy003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Tatone
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Reproductive Service, San Salvatore Hospital, Via Vetoio, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Giovanna Di Emidio
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Reproductive Service, San Salvatore Hospital, Via Vetoio, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | | | - Gaspare Carta
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Reproductive Service, San Salvatore Hospital, Via Vetoio, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Alberto M Luciano
- Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Falone
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Fernanda Amicarelli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology (IFT), CNR, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Bogolyubov DS. Karyosphere (Karyosome): A Peculiar Structure of the Oocyte Nucleus. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 337:1-48. [PMID: 29551157 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2017.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The karyosphere, aka the karyosome, is a meiosis-specific structure that represents a "knot" of condensed chromosomes joined together in a limited volume of the oocyte nucleus. The karyosphere is an evolutionarily conserved but morphologically rather "multifaceted" structure. It forms at the diplotene stage of meiotic prophase in many animals, from hydra and Drosophila to human. Karyosphere formation is generally linked with transcriptional silencing of the genome. It is believed that karyosphere/karyosome is a prerequisite for proper completion of meiotic divisions and further development. Here, a brief review on the karyosphere features in some invertebrates and vertebrates is provided. Special emphasis is made on terminology, since current discrepancies in this field may lead to confusions. In particular, it is proposed to distinguish the karyosphere with a capsule and the karyosome (a karyosphere devoid of a capsule). The "inverted" karyospheres are also considered, in which the chromosomes situate externally to an extrachromosomal structure (e.g., in human oocytes).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dmitry S Bogolyubov
- Institute of Cytology of the Russian Academy of Science, St. Petersburg, Russia.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Luciano AM, Sirard MA. Successful in vitro maturation of oocytes: a matter of follicular differentiation. Biol Reprod 2017; 98:162-169. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Maria Luciano
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Sciences and Food Safety, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Marc-André Sirard
- Centre de Recherche en reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle, Département des Sciences Animales, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Yamochi T, Hashimoto S, Yamanaka M, Nakaoka Y, Morimoto Y. Optimum culture duration for growing oocytes to attain meiotic and fertilization competence. J Reprod Dev 2017; 63:591-595. [PMID: 29021500 PMCID: PMC5735270 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2017-110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
To determine the optimum culture duration for porcine growing oocytes (GOs) to attain maturation competence, we examined the meiotic competence, chromatin configuration, and fertilization ability of porcine oocytes
obtained from early antral follicles and cultured for 10–16 days. The survival rate of oocytes after 10 days of culture (62.8%) was similar to that of oocytes after 12 days of culture (55%) and significantly higher than
that of oocytes cultured for 14 and 16 days (52.9 and 24.3%, respectively). No significant difference was observed in the diameter of ooplasm from oocytes cultured for different durations (117.4–118.3 μm). The maturation
rates of surviving oocytes after 10 and 16 days of culture (38.3 and 22.7%, respectively) were significantly lower than those of oocytes cultured for 12 and 14 days, and their in vivo counterparts
(52.8–62.4%). The number of oocytes with surrounded-nucleolus chromatin was significantly lower in the 10-day culture group (78.4%) as compared with 14-day culture and in vivo counterpart groups (93.6
and 95.1%, respectively). After in vitro maturation and intracytoplasmic sperm injection, no significant difference was observed in the rate of fertilization among oocytes cultured for 12 and 14 days,
and their in vivo counterparts (40.5–47.2%). Thus, porcine GOs required at least 12 days to acquire meiotic and fertilization competence, and the culture duration to maximize the number of mature oocytes
ranged from 12 to 14 days.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Yoshiharu Morimoto
- IVF Namba Clinic, Osaka 550-0015, Japan.,HORAC Grand Front Osaka Clinic, Osaka 530-0011, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Zhang Y, Wang H, Liu W, Yang Y, Wang X, Zhang Z, Guo Q, Wang C, Xia G. Natriuretic peptides improve the developmental competence of in vitro cultured porcine oocytes. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2017; 15:41. [PMID: 28558842 PMCID: PMC5450137 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-017-0258-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Natriuretic peptides (NPs), brain and C type NPs (BNP and CNP), were involved in the maintenance of porcine oocyte meiotic arrest. The present study investigated the effects of NPs on developmental competence of immature porcine oocytes with follicles of different sizes. METHODS Follicular fluid NP levels were examined by radioimmunoassay. The developmental competence of porcine oocytes was evaluated by cleavage and blastocyst developmental rates after in vitro fertilization (IVF) or parthenogenetic activation (PA) of cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs), which were recovered from follicle with different sizes. NP levels were examined and classified according to the cleavage potential after IVF with COCs released from these follicles. RESULTS The BNP and CNP concentrations were increased with follicular size in follicular fluid and sustained at the set ranges of 3.0 - 6.0 mm follicles compared to 6.1 - 8.0 mm follicles. The oocytes developed from 3.0 to 6.0 mm follicles demonstrated increased embryo cleavage and blastocyst ratios after IVF, with an increased follicle size (P < 0.05). Moreover, BNP and CNP significantly promoted the blastocyst developmental rates of 3.0 - 6.0 mm follicles, but could not improve the developmental competence of oocytes from 6.1 to 8.0 mm follicles due to low NP levels. The COCs from 3.0 to 4.0 mm follicles were pre-incubated in 100 ng/ml of BNP and CNP media for 20 h before regular in vitro maturation, which demonstrated 2 to 3 folds higher developmental competencies in both PA and IVF groups compared to respective controls (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS The effects of BNP and CNP supplementation in the pre-maturation culture media (PMC) on porcine developmental competence from COCs in follicles of different sizes were different and improved the developmental competence of porcine oocytes from small antral follicle in vitro.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanhao Zhang
- 0000 0004 0530 8290grid.22935.3fState Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 People’s Republic of China
| | - Huarong Wang
- 0000 0004 0530 8290grid.22935.3fState Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei Liu
- 0000 0004 0530 8290grid.22935.3fState Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 People’s Republic of China
| | - Ye Yang
- 0000 0004 0530 8290grid.22935.3fState Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiao Wang
- 0000 0004 0530 8290grid.22935.3fState Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhiyuan Zhang
- 0000 0004 0530 8290grid.22935.3fState Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 People’s Republic of China
| | - Qirui Guo
- 0000 0004 0530 8290grid.22935.3fState Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 People’s Republic of China
| | - Chao Wang
- 0000 0004 0530 8290grid.22935.3fState Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 People’s Republic of China
| | - Guoliang Xia
- 0000 0004 0530 8290grid.22935.3fState Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Bui TTH, Belli M, Fassina L, Vigone G, Merico V, Garagna S, Zuccotti M. Cytoplasmic movement profiles of mouse surrounding nucleolus and not-surrounding nucleolus antral oocytes during meiotic resumption. Mol Reprod Dev 2017; 84:356-362. [PMID: 28233368 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Full-grown mouse antral oocytes are classified as surrounding nucleolus (SN) or not-surrounding nucleolus (NSN), depending on the respective presence or absence of a ring of Hoechst-positive chromatin surrounding the nucleolus. In culture, both types of oocytes resume meiosis and reach the metaphase II (MII) stage, but following insemination, NSN oocytes arrest at the two-cell stage whereas SN oocytes may develop to term. By coupling time-lapse bright-field microscopy with image analysis based on particle image velocimetry, we provide the first systematic measure of the changes to the cytoplasmic movement velocity (CMV) occurring during the germinal vesicle-to-MII (GV-to-MII) transition of these two types of oocytes. Compared to SN oocytes, NSN oocytes display a delayed GV-to-MII transition, which can be mostly explained by retarded germinal vesicle break down and first polar body extrusion. SN and NSN oocytes also exhibit significantly different CMV profiles at four main time-lapse intervals, although this difference was not predictive of SN or NSN oocyte origin because of the high variability in CMV. When CMV profile was analyzed through a trained artificial neural network, however, each single SN or NSN oocyte was blindly identified with a probability of 92.2% and 88.7%, respectively. Thus, the CMV profile recorded during meiotic resumption may be exploited as a cytological signature for the non-invasive assessment of the oocyte developmental potential, and could be informative for the analysis of the GV-to-MII transition of oocytes of other species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thi Thu Hien Bui
- Laboratorio di Biologia dello Sviluppo, Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Martina Belli
- Laboratorio di Biologia dello Sviluppo, Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Fassina
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria Industriale e dell'Informazione, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Centre for Health Technologies (C.H.T.), University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giulia Vigone
- Laboratorio di Biologia dello Sviluppo, Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Valeria Merico
- Laboratorio di Biologia dello Sviluppo, Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Silvia Garagna
- Laboratorio di Biologia dello Sviluppo, Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Centre for Health Technologies (C.H.T.), University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Maurizio Zuccotti
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Accumulation of Chromatin Remodelling Enzyme and Histone Transcripts in Bovine Oocytes. Results Probl Cell Differ 2017; 63:223-255. [PMID: 28779321 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-60855-6_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
During growth, the oocyte accumulates mRNAs that will be required in the later stages of oogenesis and early embryogenesis until the activation of the embryonic genome. Each of these developmental stages is controlled by multiple regulatory mechanisms that ensure proper protein production. Thus mRNAs are stabilized, stored, recruited, polyadenylated, translated and/or degraded over a period of several days. As a consequence, understanding the biological significance of changes in the abundance of transcripts during oocyte growth and differentiation is rather complex. Nevertheless the availability of transcriptomic platforms applicable to scarce samples such as oocytes has generated large amounts of data that depict the transcriptome of oocytes under different conditions. Despite several technical constrains related to protein determination in oocytes that still limit the possibility to verify certain hypothesis, it is now possible to use mRNA levels to start building plausible scenarios. To start deciphering the changes in the level of specific mRNAs involved in chromatin remodelling, we have performed a meta-analysis of existing microarray datasets from germinal vesicle (GV) stage bovine oocytes during the final stages of oocyte differentiation. We then analysed the expression profiles of histone and histone-remodelling enzyme mRNAs and correlated these with the major histone modifications known to occur at the same period, based on data available in the literature. We believe that this approach could reveal the function of specific enzymes in the oocyte. In turn, this information will be useful in future studies, which final ambitious goal is to decipher the 'oocyte-specific histone code'.
Collapse
|
43
|
Lima PF, Ormond CM, Caixeta ES, Barros RG, Price CA, Buratini J. Effect of kit ligand on natriuretic peptide precursor C and oocyte maturation in cattle. Reproduction 2016; 152:481-9. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Accepted: 08/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
In vitro maturation (IVM) of oocytes in cattle is inefficient, and there is great interest in the development of approaches to improve maturation and fertilization rates. Intraovarian signalling molecules are being explored as potential additives to IVM media. One such factor is kit ligand (KITL), which stimulates the growth of oocytes. We determined if KITL enhances oocyte maturation in cattle. The two main isoforms of KITL (KITL1 and KITL2) were expressed in bovine cumulus–oocyte complexes (COC), and levels of mRNA increased during FSH-stimulated IVM. The addition of KITL to the culture medium increased the percentage of oocytes that reached meiosis II but did not affect cumulus expansion after 22 h of IVM. Addition of KITL reduced the levels of mRNA encoding natriuretic peptide precursor C (NPPC), a protein that holds oocytes in meiotic arrest, and increased the levels of mRNA encoding YBX2, an oocyte-specific factor involved in meiosis. Removal of the oocyte from the COC resulted in increased KITL mRNA levels and decreased NPPC mRNA levels in cumulus cells, and addition of denuded oocytes reversed these effects. Taken together, our results suggest that KITL enhances bovine oocyte nuclear maturation through a mechanism that involves NPPC, and that the oocyte regulates cumulus expression of KITL mRNA.
Collapse
|
44
|
Dieci C, Lodde V, Labreque R, Dufort I, Tessaro I, Sirard MA, Luciano AM. Differences in cumulus cell gene expression indicate the benefit of a pre-maturation step to improve in-vitro bovine embryo production. Mol Hum Reprod 2016; 22:882-897. [PMID: 27559149 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaw055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Revised: 07/21/2016] [Accepted: 08/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does the gene expression profile of cumulus cells (CC) accompanying oocytes with different degrees of chromatin compaction within the germinal vesicle (GV) reflect the oocyte's quality and response in culture during in-vitro embryo production (IVP). SUMMARY ANSWER The transcriptomic profile of the CC is related to oocyte competence, setting the stage for the development of customized pre-maturation strategies to improve IVP. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Oocytes complete the acquisition of their competence during antral follicle development. During this period, the chromatin configuration within the GV changes dynamically and is indicative of oocyte's developmental potential. The interactions between somatic and germ cells modulate chromatin morphology and function and are critical for acquisition of oocyte competence. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COC) were isolated from 0.5 to 6 mm antral follicles. Surrounding CC were separated from the oocyte and classified as GV0, GV1, GV2 and GV3 according to the degree of the oocyte's chromatin compaction. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHOD RNA extracted from CC of each group was amplified and hybridized on a bovine embryo-specific 44 K Agilent slide. The CC_GV1, CC_GV2 and CC_GV3 classes were each hybridized against the CC_GV0 class, representing an early oocyte differentiation stage with poor development competence. The data were normalized and fold changes of the differentially expressed genes were determined. Microarray data were validated using quantitative RT-PCR on selected targets. Microarray data were further analyzed through: (i) between-group analysis (BGA), which classifies the samples according to their transcriptomic profiles; (ii) cluster analysis according to the expression profile of each gene; and (iii) Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) to study gene regulation patterns and predicted functions. Furthermore, CC of each GV group were cultured and apoptotic cells were assessed after 3 h by caspase analysis. Finally, based on the analysis of CC transcriptomic profiles and the relationship between morphological features of the COC and the oocyte chromatin configuration, a customized, stage-dependent oocyte pre-maturation (pre-IVM) system was used to improve oocyte developmental potential before IVM. For this, the blastocyst rate and quality were assessed after in-vitro maturation and fertilization of pre-matured oocytes. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Overall, quantitative RT-PCR results of a subset of five selected genes were consistent with the microarray data. Clustering analysis generated 16 clusters representing the main profiles of transcription modulation. Of the 5571 significantly differentially expressed probes, the majority (25.49%) best fitted with cluster #6 (downregulation between CC_GV0 and CC_GV1 and stable low levels in successive groups). IPA identified the most relevant functions associated with each cluster. Genes included in cluster #1 were mostly related to biological processes such as 'cell cycle' and 'cell death and survival', whereas genes included in cluster #5 were mostly related to 'gene expression'. Interestingly, 'lipid metabolism' was the most significant function identified in clusters #6, #9 and #12. IPA of gene lists obtained from each contrast (i.e., CC_GV0 vs. CC_GV1; CC_GV0 vs. CC_GV2; CC_GV0 vs. CC_GV3) revealed that the main affected function in each contrast was 'cell death and survival'. Importantly, apoptosis was predicted to be inhibited in CC_GV1 and CC_GV2, but activated in CC_GV3. Caspase analysis indicated that a low percentage of CC_GV0 was prone to undergo apoptosis but apoptosis increased significantly in CC from oocytes with condensed chromatin, reaching a peak in CC_GV3 (P < 0.05). Finally, the tailored oocyte pre-maturation strategy, based on morphological features of the COC and the oocyte chromatin configuration, demonstrated that pre-IVM improved the developmental capability of oocytes at early stages of differentiation (GV1-enriched COC) but was detrimental for oocytes at more advanced stages of development (GV2 and GV3-enriched COC). LARGE SCALE DATA The data are available through the GEO series accession number GSE79886. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study was conducted with bovine samples. Whether or not the results are applicable to human oocytes requests further elucidation. Embryo transfer experiments are required to determine whether the improvement in blastocyst rates in the tailored system leads to increased live birth rates. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The identification of multiple non-invasive biomarkers predictive of oocyte quality can greatly strengthen the pre-IVM approach aimed to improve IVM outcomes. These results have potentially important implications in treating human infertility and in developing breeding schemes for domestic mammals. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This work was supported in part by NSERC Strategic Network EmbryoGENE, Canada and in part by CIG-Marie Curie Actions-Reintegration Grants within the EU 7FP (n. 303640, 'Pro-Ovum'). The authors declare no potential conflict of interest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Dieci
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Via Celoria 10, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Lodde
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Via Celoria 10, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Rémi Labreque
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Département des Sciences Animales, Université Laval, 2440, boulevard Hochelaga, Québec, (Québec) G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Isabelle Dufort
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Département des Sciences Animales, Université Laval, 2440, boulevard Hochelaga, Québec, (Québec) G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Irene Tessaro
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Via Celoria 10, 20133 Milan, Italy.,Present address: I.R.C.C.S. Istituto Ortopedico Galeazzi, Via R. Galeazzi, 4, 20161 Milan, Italy
| | - Marc-André Sirard
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Département des Sciences Animales, Université Laval, 2440, boulevard Hochelaga, Québec, (Québec) G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Alberto M Luciano
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Via Celoria 10, 20133 Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Gilchrist RB, Luciano AM, Richani D, Zeng HT, Wang X, Vos MD, Sugimura S, Smitz J, Richard FJ, Thompson JG. Oocyte maturation and quality: role of cyclic nucleotides. Reproduction 2016; 152:R143-57. [PMID: 27422885 DOI: 10.1530/rep-15-0606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The cyclic nucleotides, cAMP and cGMP, are the key molecules controlling mammalian oocyte meiosis. Their roles in oocyte biology have been at the forefront of oocyte research for decades, and many of the long-standing controversies in relation to the regulation of oocyte meiotic maturation are now resolved. It is now clear that the follicle prevents meiotic resumption through the actions of natriuretic peptides and cGMP - inhibiting the hydrolysis of intra-oocyte cAMP - and that the pre-ovulatory gonadotrophin surge reverses these processes. The gonadotrophin surge also leads to a transient spike in cAMP in the somatic compartment of the follicle. Research over the past two decades has conclusively demonstrated that this surge in cAMP is important for the subsequent developmental capacity of the oocyte. This is important, as oocyte in vitro maturation (IVM) systems practised clinically do not recapitulate this cAMP surge in vitro, possibly accounting for the lower efficiency of IVM compared with clinical IVF. This review particularly focuses on this latter aspect - the role of cAMP/cGMP in the regulation of oocyte quality. We conclude that clinical practice of IVM should reflect this new understanding of the role of cyclic nucleotides, thereby creating a new generation of ART and fertility treatment options.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R B Gilchrist
- Discipline of Obstetrics and GynaecologySchool of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - A M Luciano
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology LaboratoryDepartment of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Milano, Italy
| | - D Richani
- Discipline of Obstetrics and GynaecologySchool of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - H T Zeng
- Center for Reproductive MedicineSixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - X Wang
- Discipline of Obstetrics and GynaecologySchool of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologySt George Public Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - M De Vos
- Follicle Biology LaboratoryUniversity Hospital UZBrussel, Medical School, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - S Sugimura
- Institute of AgricultureDepartment of Biological Production, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - J Smitz
- Follicle Biology LaboratoryUniversity Hospital UZBrussel, Medical School, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - F J Richard
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la ReproductionDépartement des Sciences Animales, Faculté des sciences de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - J G Thompson
- School of MedicineRobinson Research Institute and ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Gilchrist GC, Tscherner A, Nalpathamkalam T, Merico D, LaMarre J. MicroRNA Expression during Bovine Oocyte Maturation and Fertilization. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:396. [PMID: 26999121 PMCID: PMC4813251 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17030396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Revised: 03/03/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Successful fertilization and subsequent embryo development rely on complex molecular processes starting with the development of oocyte competence through maturation. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that function as gene regulators in many biological systems, including the oocyte and embryo. In order to further explore the roles of miRNAs in oocyte maturation, we employed small RNA sequencing as a screening tool to identify and characterize miRNA populations present in pools of bovine germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes, metaphase II (MII) oocytes, and presumptive zygotes (PZ). Each stage contained a defined miRNA population, some of which showed stable expression while others showed progressive changes between stages that were subsequently confirmed by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Bta-miR-155, bta-miR-222, bta-miR-21, bta-let-7d, bta-let-7i, and bta-miR-190a were among the statistically significant differentially expressed miRNAs (p < 0.05). To determine whether changes in specific primary miRNA (pri-miRNA) transcripts were responsible for the observed miRNA changes, we evaluated pri-miR-155, -222 and let-7d expression. Pri-miR-155 and -222 were not detected in GV oocytes but pri-miR-155 was present in MII oocytes, indicating transcription during maturation. In contrast, levels of pri-let-7d decreased during maturation, suggesting that the observed increase in let-7d expression was likely due to processing of the primary transcript. This study demonstrates that both dynamic and stable populations of miRNAs are present in bovine oocytes and zygotes and extend previous studies supporting the importance of the small RNA landscape in the maturing bovine oocyte and early embryo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Graham C Gilchrist
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | - Allison Tscherner
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | - Thomas Nalpathamkalam
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, The Centre for Applied Genomics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada.
| | - Daniele Merico
- Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, The Centre for Applied Genomics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada.
| | - Jonathan LaMarre
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
El-Hayek S, Clarke HJ. Control of Oocyte Growth and Development by Intercellular Communication Within the Follicular Niche. Results Probl Cell Differ 2016; 58:191-224. [PMID: 27300180 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-31973-5_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In the mammalian ovary, each oocyte grows and develops within its own structural and developmental niche-the follicle. Together with the female germ cell in the follicle are somatic granulosa cells, specialized companion cells that surround the oocyte and provide support to it, and an outer layer of thecal cells that serve crucial roles including steroid synthesis. These follicular compartments function as a single physiological unit whose purpose is to produce a healthy egg, which upon ovulation can be fertilized and give rise to a healthy embryo, thus enabling the female germ cell to fulfill its reproductive potential. Beginning from the initial stage of follicle formation and until terminal differentiation at ovulation, oocyte and follicle growth depend absolutely on cooperation between the different cellular compartments. This cooperation synchronizes the initiation of oocyte growth with follicle activation. During growth, it enables metabolic support for the follicle-enclosed oocyte and allows the follicle to fulfill its steroidogenic potential. Near the end of the growth period, intra-follicular interactions prevent the precocious meiotic resumption of the oocyte and ensure its nuclear differentiation. Finally, cooperation enables the events of ovulation, including meiotic maturation of the oocyte and expansion of the cumulus granulosa cells. In this chapter, we discuss the cellular interactions that enable the growing follicle to produce a healthy oocyte, focusing on the communication between the germ cell and the surrounding granulosa cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephany El-Hayek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, 1001 Decarie Blvd, Block E-M0.2218, Montreal, QC, Canada, H4A 3J1
| | - Hugh J Clarke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
- Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, 1001 Decarie Blvd, Block E-M0.2218, Montreal, QC, Canada, H4A 3J1.
- Department of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Macaulay AD, Gilbert I, Scantland S, Fournier E, Ashkar F, Bastien A, Saadi HAS, Gagné D, Sirard MA, Khandjian ÉW, Richard FJ, Hyttel P, Robert C. Cumulus Cell Transcripts Transit to the Bovine Oocyte in Preparation for Maturation. Biol Reprod 2015; 94:16. [PMID: 26586844 PMCID: PMC4809558 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.127571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2014] [Accepted: 11/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
So far, the characteristics of a good quality egg have been elusive, similar to the nature of the physiological, cellular, and molecular cues leading to its production both in vivo and in vitro. Current understanding highlights a strong and complex interdependence between the follicular cells and the gamete. Secreted factors induce cellular responses in the follicular cells, and direct exchange of small molecules from the cumulus cells to the oocyte through gap junctions controls meiotic arrest. Studying the interconnection between the cumulus cells and the oocyte, we previously demonstrated that the somatic cells also contribute transcripts to the gamete. Here, we show that these transcripts can be visualized moving down the transzonal projections (TZPs) to the oocyte, and that a time course analysis revealed progressive RNA accumulation in the TZPs, indicating that RNA transfer occurs before the initiation of meiosis resumption under a timetable fitting with the acquisition of developmental competence. A comparison of the identity of the nascent transcripts trafficking in the TZPs, with those in the oocyte increasing in abundance during maturation, and that are present on the oocyte's polyribosomes, revealed transcripts common to all three fractions, suggesting the use of transferred transcripts for translation. Furthermore, the removal of potential RNA trafficking by stripping the cumulus cells caused a significant reduction in maturation rates, indicating the need for the cumulus cell RNA transfer to the oocyte. These results offer a new perspective to the determinants of oocyte quality and female fertility, as well as provide insight that may eventually be used to improve in vitro maturation conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angus D Macaulay
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en biologie de la reproduction, Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Isabelle Gilbert
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en biologie de la reproduction, Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Sara Scantland
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en biologie de la reproduction, Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Eric Fournier
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en biologie de la reproduction, Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Fazl Ashkar
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Reproductive Biology Lab, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alexandre Bastien
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en biologie de la reproduction, Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Habib A Shojaei Saadi
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en biologie de la reproduction, Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Dominic Gagné
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en biologie de la reproduction, Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Marc-André Sirard
- Département de Psychiatrie et Neurosciences, Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Québec, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Édouard W Khandjian
- Département de Psychiatrie et Neurosciences, Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Québec, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - François J Richard
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en biologie de la reproduction, Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Poul Hyttel
- Department of Veterinary Clinical and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Claude Robert
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en biologie de la reproduction, Institut sur la nutrition et les aliments fonctionnels, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Lee PC, Wildt DE, Comizzoli P. Nucleolar Translocation of Histone Deacetylase 2 Is Involved in Regulation of Transcriptional Silencing in the Cat Germinal Vesicle. Biol Reprod 2015; 93:33. [PMID: 26108793 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.129106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2015] [Accepted: 06/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) is a key transcriptional coregulator that is suspected to play a role during oogenesis. It is known that RNA transcription in the cat germinal vesicle (GV) stops during folliculogenesis at the late antral follicle stage and is unrelated to histone deacetylation or chromatin condensation. The objective of the present study was to determine if and how HDAC2 participates in transcription regulation in the cat GV. Spatiotemporal HDAC2 protein expression was examined by immunostaining oocytes from primary to large antral follicles. HDAC2 was detected in the majority of GVs within oocytes from early, small, and large antral follicles. At early and small antral stages, HDAC2 was found primarily in the GV's nucleoplasm. There then was a significant shift in HDAC2 localization into the nucleolus, mostly in oocytes from large antral follicles. Assessments revealed that transcription was active in oocytes that contained nucleoplasm-localized HDAC2, whereas nucleolar-bound HDAC2 was associated with loss of both global transcription and ribosomal RNA presence at all antral stages. When oocytes were exposed to the HDAC inhibitor valproic acid, results indicated that HDAC regulated transcriptional activity in the nucleoplasm, but not in the nucleolus. Collective results suggest that nucleolar translocation of HDAC2 is associated with transcriptional silencing in the GV, thereby likely contributing to an oocyte's acquisition of competence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Chih Lee
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, District of Columbia, and Front Royal, Virginia
| | - David E Wildt
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, District of Columbia, and Front Royal, Virginia
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, District of Columbia, and Front Royal, Virginia
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Labrecque R, Lodde V, Dieci C, Tessaro I, Luciano AM, Sirard MA. Chromatin remodelling and histone m RNA accumulation in bovine germinal vesicle oocytes. Mol Reprod Dev 2015; 82:450-62. [PMID: 25940597 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2015] [Accepted: 04/14/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Major remodelling of the chromatin enclosed within the germinal vesicle occurs towards the end of oocyte growth in mammals, but the mechanisms involved in this process are not completely understood. In bovine, four distinct stages of chromatin compaction-ranging from a diffused state (GV0) to a fully compacted configuration (GV3)-are linked to the gradual acquisition of developmental potential. To better understand the molecular events and to identify mRNA modulations occurring in the oocyte during the GV0-to-GV3 transition, transcriptomic analysis was performed with the EmbryoGENE microarray platform. The mRNA abundance of several genes decreased as chromatin compaction increased, which correlates with progressive transcriptional silencing that is characteristic of the end of oocyte growth. On the other hand, the abundance of some transcripts increased during the same period, particularly several histone gene transcripts from the H2A, H2B, H3, H4, and linker H1 family. In silico analysis predicted RNA-protein interactions between specific histone transcripts and the bovine stem-loop binding protein 2 (SLBP2), which helps regulate the translation of histone mRNA during oogenesis. These results suggest that some histone-encoding transcripts are actively stored, possibly to sustain the needs of the embryo before genome activation. This dataset offers a unique opportunity to survey which histone mRNAs are needed to complete chromatin compaction during oocyte maturation and which are stockpiled for the first three cell cycles following fertilization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Labrecque
- Département des Sciences Animales, Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - V Lodde
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Sciences and Food Safety, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - C Dieci
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Sciences and Food Safety, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - I Tessaro
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Sciences and Food Safety, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - A M Luciano
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, Department of Health, Animal Sciences and Food Safety, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - M A Sirard
- Département des Sciences Animales, Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
- Department of Animal Sciences, Laval University, Québec, Québec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|