1
|
Hamdi M, Sánchez JM, Fernandez-Fuertes B, Câmara DR, Bollwein H, Rizos D, Bauersachs S, Almiñana C. Oviductal extracellular vesicles miRNA cargo varies in response to embryos and their quality. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:520. [PMID: 38802796 PMCID: PMC11129498 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10429-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing evidence points to an active role of oviductal extracellular vesicles (oEVs) in the early embryo-maternal dialogue. However, it remains unclear whether oEVs contribute to the recognition of the presence of embryos and their quality in the oviduct. Hence, we examined whether the molecular cargo of oEVs secreted by bovine oviduct epithelial cells (BOEC) differs depending on the presence of good (≥ 8 cells, G) or poor (< 8 cells, P) quality embryos. In addition, differences in RNA profiles between G and P embryos were analyzed in attempt to distinguish oEVs and embryonic EVs cargos. METHODS For this purpose, primary BOEC were co-cultured with in vitro produced embryos (IVP) 53 h post fertilization as follows: BOEC with G embryos (BGE); BOEC with P embryos (BPE); G embryos alone (GE); P embryos alone (PE); BOEC alone (B) and medium control (M). After 24 h of co-culture, conditioned media were collected from all groups and EVs were isolated and characterized. MicroRNA profiling of EVs and embryos was performed by small RNA-sequencing. RESULTS In EVs, 84 miRNAs were identified, with 8 differentially abundant (DA) miRNAs for BGE vs. B and 4 for BPE vs. B (P-value < 0.01). In embryos, 187 miRNAs were identified, with 12 DA miRNAs for BGE vs. BPE, 3 for G vs. P, 8 for BGE vs. GE, and 11 for BPE vs. PE (P-value < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS These results indicated that oEVs are involved in the oviductal-embryo recognition and pointed to specific miRNAs with signaling and supporting roles during early embryo development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meriem Hamdi
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty Zurich, University of Zurich, Lindau, ZH, 8315, Switzerland
| | - José María Sánchez
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Fernandez-Fuertes
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Diogo Ribeiro Câmara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Alagoas, Viçosa, AL, Brazil
| | - Heinrich Bollwein
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Lindau, ZH, 8315, Switzerland
| | - Dimitrios Rizos
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Stefan Bauersachs
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty Zurich, University of Zurich, Lindau, ZH, 8315, Switzerland
| | - Carmen Almiñana
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty Zurich, University of Zurich, Lindau, ZH, 8315, Switzerland.
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Veraguas-Dávila D, Caamaño D, Saéz-Ruiz D, Vásquez Y, Saravia F, Castro FO, Rodríguez-Alvarez L. Zona pellucida removal modifies the expression and release of specific microRNAs in domestic cat blastocysts. ZYGOTE 2023; 31:544-556. [PMID: 37724015 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199423000436] [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] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
The in vitro culture of domestic cat embryos without the zona pellucida affects their implantation capacity. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have an important role in embryo-maternal communication and implantation. The objective of this study was to evaluate the expression of specific miRNAs in domestic cat blastocysts cultured without the zona pellucida. Two experimental groups were done: (1) domestic cat embryos cultured with the zona pellucida (zona intact control group, ZI); and (2) cultured without the zona pellucida (zona free group, ZF). The cleavage, morula and blastocyst rates were evaluated. The blastocysts and their spent medium were used for miRNA expression analysis using RT-qPCR (miR-21, miR-24, mi25, miR-29, miR-96, miR-98, miR-103, miR-191, miR-196, miR-199, miR-130, miR-155 and miR-302). The pre-mature microRNAs (pre-miRNAs) and miRNAs were evaluated in the blastocysts and only miRNAs were evaluated in the spent medium. No differences were observed in the cleavage, morula and blastocyst rates between the ZF and ZI groups (P > 0.05). For miRNAs analysis, miR-103 and miR-191 had the most stable expression and were selected as internal controls. ZF blastocysts had a higher expression of miR-21, miR-25, miR-29 and miR-199 and a lower expression of miR-96 than their ZI counterparts (P < 0.05). Furthermore, higher levels of miR-21, miR-25 and miR-98 were detected in the spent medium of ZF blastocysts (P < 0.05). In conclusion, in vitro culture of domestic cat embryos without the zona pellucida modifies the expression of miR-21, miR-25, miR-29, miR-199 and miR-96 at the blastocyst stage and the release of miR-21, miR-25 and miR-98.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Veraguas-Dávila
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
- Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias y Forestales, Departamento de Ciencias Agrarias, Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad Católica del Maule, Los Niches, Curicó, Chile
| | - Diego Caamaño
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - Darling Saéz-Ruiz
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - Yazmín Vásquez
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - Fernando Saravia
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - Fidel Ovidio Castro
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Universidad de Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Saadeldin IM, Ehab S, Swelum AA. Potential roles of extracellular vesicles as a noninvasive tool for prenatal genetic diagnosis. F&S SCIENCE 2023; 4:36-43. [PMID: 36736894 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2023.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The rate of infertility is increasing owing to genetic and environmental factors. Consequently, assisted reproductive technology has been introduced as an alternative. Bearing in mind the global trend toward the transfer of only one embryo, there is an increasing trend for assessing embryo quality before transfer through prenatal genetic diagnosis (PGD) tests. This ensures that the best-quality embryos are implanted into the uterus. In the in vitro fertilization cycle, PGD is not only used for diseases or quality checks before embryo freezing but also for evaluating unfortunate risks, such as aneuploidy, signs of early abortions, and preterm birth. However, traditional preimplantation genetic testing and screening approaches are invasive and harm the health of both the mother and embryo, raising the risk of miscarriage. In the last decade, embryonic extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been investigated and have emerged as a promising diagnostic tool. In this mini-review, we address the use of EVs as a noninvasive biomarker in PGD to test for biological hazards within the embryo without invading its cells. We summarize the state-of-the-art in the use of the embryo's EV content, genomic DNA, messenger RNA, and microRNA in the spent culture medium and their relationship with embryo quality, successful implantation, and pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Islam M Saadeldin
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea; Research Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
| | - Seif Ehab
- Biomedical Sciences Program, Zewail City of Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt; Zoology Graduate Program, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ayman A Swelum
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
The role of extracellular vesicles in endometrial receptivity and their potential in reproductive therapeutics and diagnosis. Reprod Biol 2022; 22:100645. [PMID: 35594727 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2022.100645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small, nanometre sized, membrane-enclosed structures released by cells and are thought to be crucial in cellular communication. The cargo of these vesicles includes lipids, proteins, RNAs and DNA, and control various biological processes in their target tissues depending on the parental and receiver cell's origin and phenotype. Recently data has accumulated in the role of EVs in embryo implantation and pregnancy, with EVs identified in the uterine cavity of women, sheep, cows, horses, and mice, in which they aid blastocyst and endometrial preparation for implantation. Herein is a critical review to decipher the role of extracellular vesicles in endometrial receptivity and their potential in reproductive therapies and diagnosis. The current knowledge of the function of embryo and endometrial derived EVs and their cargoes, with regards to their effect on implantation and receptivity are summarized and evaluated. The findings of the below review highlight that the combined knowledge on EVs deriving from the endometrium and embryo have the potential to be translated to various clinical applications including treatment, a diagnostic biomarker for diseases and a drug delivery tool to ultimately improve pregnancy rates.
Collapse
|
5
|
Bridi A, Andrade GM, Del Collado M, Sangalli JR, de Ávila ACFCM, Motta IG, da Silva JCB, Pugliesi G, Silva LA, Meirelles FV, da Silveira JC, Perecin F. Small extracellular vesicles derived from in vivo- or in vitro-produced bovine blastocysts have different miRNAs profiles-Implications for embryo-maternal recognition. Mol Reprod Dev 2021; 88:628-643. [PMID: 34402123 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In vivo- and in vitro-produced bovine embryos have different metabolic profiles and differences in gene transcription patterns. These embryos also have a distinct ability to establish and sustain early pregnancies. Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are secreted by embryos and carry bioactive molecules, such as miRNAs. We hypothesize that in vivo or in vitro-produced bovine hatched blastocysts on Day 9 and the sEVs secreted by them have different miRNA profiles. To address this hypothesis, embryos of both groups were placed in in vitro culture on Day 7. After 48 h, hatched embryos and hatched embryo-conditioned media (eCM) of both groups were collected. A total of 210 miRNAs were detected in embryos of both groups, of these 6 miRNAs were downregulated, while 7 miRNAs were upregulated in vitro group when compared to in vivo group. sEVs were isolated from eCM to determine miRNA profile. A total of 106 miRNAs were detected in both groups, including 14 miRNAs upregulated in sEVs from in vivo-eCM, and 2 miRNAs upregulated in sEVs from in vitro-eCM. These miRNAs express in embryos and sEVs secreted by them regulate early embryonic developmental and endometrial pathways, which can modify embryo-maternal communication during early pregnancy and consequently affect pregnancy establishment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Bridi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Gabriella M Andrade
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Maite Del Collado
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Juliano R Sangalli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Ana C F C M de Ávila
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Igor G Motta
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Júlio C B da Silva
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Pugliesi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luciano A Silva
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Flávio V Meirelles
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Juliano C da Silveira
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Felipe Perecin
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Mas-Bargues C, Borrás C. Importance of stem cell culture conditions for their derived extracellular vesicles therapeutic effect. Free Radic Biol Med 2021; 168:16-24. [PMID: 33781893 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2021.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) could be enhanced by modifying specific in vitro parameters when culturing their originating stem cells. Controlling stem cell growth conditions with physical properties, oxygen tension and media preconditioning with soluble factors may influence EVs biogenesis and EVs biological function as well. Unfortunately, many misconceptions and methodological issues have hampered the progress in understanding the biological properties of EVs. In this review we will first discuss the major concerns involved in a suitable EVs production from stem cell culture. Then, we will describe the current techniques for EV isolation, focusing on their advantages and disadvantages, as well as their impact on EVs yield, recovery and functionality. Standardization of the methodology is a prerequisite to compare, to validate and to improve the reliability and credibility of all the different findings reported for the development of EV-based therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Mas-Bargues
- Freshage Research Group, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, CIBERFES-ISCIII, INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain
| | - Consuelo Borrás
- Freshage Research Group, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Valencia, CIBERFES-ISCIII, INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Mazzarella R, Bastos NM, Bridi A, Del Collado M, Andrade GM, Pinzon J, Prado CM, Silva LA, Meirelles FV, Pugliesi G, Perecin F, da Silveira JC. Changes in Oviductal Cells and Small Extracellular Vesicles miRNAs in Pregnant Cows. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:639752. [PMID: 33748215 PMCID: PMC7969882 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.639752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Early embryonic development occurs in the oviduct, where an ideal microenvironment is provided by the epithelial cells and by the oviductal fluid produced by these cells. The oviductal fluid contains small extracellular vesicles (sEVs), which through their contents, including microRNAs (miRNAs), can ensure proper cell communication between the mother and the embryo. However, little is known about the modulation of miRNAs within oviductal epithelial cells (OECs) and sEVs from the oviductal fluid in pregnant cows. In this study, we evaluate the miRNAs profile in sEVs from the oviductal flushing (OF-sEVs) and OECs from pregnant cows compared to non-pregnant, at 120 h after ovulation induction. In OF-sEVs, eight miRNAs (bta-miR-126-5p, bta-miR-129, bta-miR-140, bta-miR-188, bta-miR-219, bta-miR-345-3p, bta-miR-4523, and bta-miR-760-3p) were up-regulated in pregnant and one miRNA (bta-miR-331-5p) was up-regulated in non-pregnant cows. In OECs, six miRNAs (bta-miR-133b, bta-miR-205, bta-miR-584, bta-miR-551a, bta-miR-1193, and bta-miR-1225-3p) were up-regulated in non-pregnant and none was up-regulated in pregnant cows. Our results suggest that embryonic maternal communication mediated by sEVs initiates in the oviduct, and the passage of gametes and the embryo presence modulate miRNAs contents of sEVs and OECs. Furthermore, we demonstrated the transcriptional levels modulation of selected genes in OECs in pregnant cows. Therefore, the embryonic-maternal crosstalk potentially begins during early embryonic development in the oviduct through the modulation of miRNAs in OECs and sEVs in pregnant cows.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosane Mazzarella
- Molecular Morphology and Development Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Natália Marins Bastos
- Molecular Morphology and Development Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Bridi
- Molecular Morphology and Development Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Maite Del Collado
- Molecular Morphology and Development Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Gabriella Mamede Andrade
- Molecular Morphology and Development Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Jorge Pinzon
- Graduate Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, National University of Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Cibele Maria Prado
- Molecular Morphology and Development Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Luciano Andrade Silva
- Molecular Morphology and Development Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Flávio Vieira Meirelles
- Molecular Morphology and Development Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Pugliesi
- Molecular Endocrinology Physiology Laboratory, Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Felipe Perecin
- Molecular Morphology and Development Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Juliano Coelho da Silveira
- Molecular Morphology and Development Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Machtinger R, Baccarelli AA, Wu H. Extracellular vesicles and female reproduction. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:549-557. [PMID: 33471231 PMCID: PMC7910356 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-02048-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nano-sized membrane bound complexes that have been identified as a mean for intercellular communication between cells and tissues both in physiological and pathological conditions. These vesicles contain numerous molecules involved in signal transduction including microRNAs, mRNAs, DNA, proteins, lipids, and cytokines and can affect the behavior of recipient cells. Female reproduction is dependent on extremely fine-tuned endocrine regulation, and EVs may represent an added layer that contributes to this regulation. This narrative review article provides an update on the research of the role of EVs in female reproduction including folliculogenesis, fertilization, embryo quality, and implantation. We also highlight potential pitfalls in typical EV studies and discuss gaps in the current literature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ronit Machtinger
- Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan and Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
- Infertility and IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, 52621, Tel Hashomer, Israel.
| | - Andrea A Baccarelli
- Environmental Precision Biosciences Laboratory, Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Haotian Wu
- Environmental Precision Biosciences Laboratory, Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Talebjedi B, Tasnim N, Hoorfar M, Mastromonaco GF, De Almeida Monteiro Melo Ferraz M. Exploiting Microfluidics for Extracellular Vesicle Isolation and Characterization: Potential Use for Standardized Embryo Quality Assessment. Front Vet Sci 2021; 7:620809. [PMID: 33469556 PMCID: PMC7813816 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.620809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent decades have seen a growing interest in the study of extracellular vesicles (EVs), driven by their role in cellular communication, and potential as biomarkers of health and disease. Although it is known that embryos secrete EVs, studies on the importance of embryonic EVs are still very limited. This limitation is due mainly to small sample volumes, with low EV concentrations available for analysis, and to laborious, costly and time-consuming procedures for isolating and evaluating EVs. In this respect, microfluidics technologies represent a promising avenue for optimizing the isolation and characterization of embryonic EVs. Despite significant improvements in microfluidics for EV isolation and characterization, the use of EVs as markers of embryo quality has been held back by two key challenges: (1) the lack of specific biomarkers of embryo quality, and (2) the limited number of studies evaluating the content of embryonic EVs across embryos with varying developmental competence. Our core aim in this review is to identify the critical challenges of EV isolation and to provide seeds for future studies to implement the profiling of embryonic EVs as a diagnostic test for embryo selection. We first summarize the conventional methods for isolating EVs and contrast these with the most promising microfluidics methods. We then discuss current knowledge of embryonic EVs and their potential role as biomarkers of embryo quality. Finally, we identify key ways in which microfluidics technologies could allow researchers to overcome the challenges of embryonic EV isolation and be used as a fast, user-friendly tool for non-invasive embryo selection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bahram Talebjedi
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Nishat Tasnim
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Mina Hoorfar
- School of Engineering, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Capra E, Lange-Consiglio A. The Biological Function of Extracellular Vesicles during Fertilization, Early Embryo-Maternal Crosstalk and Their Involvement in Reproduction: Review and Overview. Biomolecules 2020; 10:E1510. [PMID: 33158009 PMCID: PMC7693816 DOI: 10.3390/biom10111510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Secretory extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membrane-enclosed microparticles that mediate cell to cell communication in proximity to, or distant from, the cell of origin. Cells release a heterogeneous spectrum of EVs depending on their physiologic and metabolic state. Extracellular vesicles are generally classified as either exosomes or microvesicles depending on their size and biogenesis. Extracellular vesicles mediate temporal and spatial interaction during many events in sexual reproduction and supporting embryo-maternal dialogue. Although many omic technologies provide detailed understanding of the molecular cargo of EVs, the difficulty in obtaining populations of homogeneous EVs makes difficult to interpret the molecular profile of the molecules derived from a miscellaneous EV population. Notwithstanding, molecular characterization of EVs isolated in physiological and pathological conditions may increase our understanding of reproductive and obstetric diseases and assist the search for potential non-invasive biomarkers. Moreover, a more precise vision of the cocktail of biomolecules inside the EVs mediating communication between the embryo and mother could provide new insights to optimize the therapeutic action and safety of EV use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Capra
- Istituto di Biologia e Biotecnologia Agraria, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche IBBA CNR, 26900 Lodi, Italy;
| | - Anna Lange-Consiglio
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Milano, 26900 Lodi, Italy
- Centro Clinico-Veterinario e Zootecnico-Sperimentale di Ateneo, Università degli Studi di Milano, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Valente RS, Almeida TGD, Alves MF, Paschoal DM, Basso AC, Sudano MJ. Cellular and apoptotic status monitoring according to the ability and speed to resume post-cryopreservation embryonic development. Theriogenology 2020; 158:290-296. [PMID: 33007714 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.09.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Embryonic morphofunctional competence features regulating post-cryopreservation resumption of development are still poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the correlation between embryonic viability and the speed and ability to resume post-cryopreservation development. Thus, in vitro produced blastocysts were vitrified by the Cryotop method using standard protocols. Subsequently, the embryos were warmed, re-cultured, and classified into groups according to their speed and ability to resume post-cryopreservation development: embryos not re-expanded at 12h (NE12); embryos re-expanded at 12h and hatched at 24h (E12H24); embryos re-expanded at 12h and hatched at 48h (E12H48); embryos re-expanded at 12h and not hatched at 48h (E12NH48). Subsequently, the embryos were subjected to monitoring of total cell number and apoptosis. We identified that the blastocoel's ability to re-expand was negatively affected by the significant higher percentage of apoptotic cells observed in the NE12 group than in the other groups. A greater (P < 0.05) number of total cells, found in groups E12H24 and E12H48, seems to have a positive influence on the hatching capacity of blastocysts after cryopreservation. In conclusion, the total number of cells and apoptotic index correlated with the speed and ability to resume post-cryopreservation development. Apoptosis was a determinant for embryonic re-expansion, and the total cell number was crucial for blastocyst hatching.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Daniela Martins Paschoal
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Mateus José Sudano
- Center for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC, Santo André, SP, Brazil; Department of Genetics and Evolution, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Almiñana C, Bauersachs S. Extracellular vesicles: Multi-signal messengers in the gametes/embryo-oviduct cross-talk. Theriogenology 2020; 150:59-69. [PMID: 32088033 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.01.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as novel cell-to-cell communication mediators in physiological and pathological scenarios. Their ability to transfer their molecular cargo (RNAs, proteins and lipids) from one cell to another, in the vicinity or far from the cell of origin, together with their capacity of exerting a functional impact on the target cell make them valuable diagnostic tools as well as therapeutic vectors in a variety of diseases. In the reproductive field, there is a growing interest in the role of EVs in gamete/embryo-maternal communication and their potential implications in the reproductive success. In this review, we provide current knowledge of EVs secreted by the oviduct (oEVs) and embryos (eEVs), since both have been proposed as key players in the crucial two-way dialogue between the oviduct (lining epithelium and secretions) and the embryo that ensures successful pregnancy. Both oEVs and eEVs molecular cargos and their potential role as multi-signal messengers in the gametes/embryo-oviduct cross-talk and in the embryo-to-embryo communication in different species are also addressed. Eventually, a comparative analysis between oEVs and eEVs has been performed to shed some light on common and specific cargos responsible for their functions supporting the early reproductive events and as prime candidate molecules for improving fertility and assisted reproductive technologies outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Almiñana
- University of Zurich, Genetics and Functional Genomics Group, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, VetSuisse Faculty, Zurich, Switzerland; UMR85 PRC, INRA, CNRS 7247, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France.
| | - Stefan Bauersachs
- University of Zurich, Genetics and Functional Genomics Group, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, VetSuisse Faculty, Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Criscitiello MF, Kraev I, Lange S. Post-Translational Protein Deimination Signatures in Serum and Serum-Extracellular Vesicles of Bos taurus Reveal Immune, Anti-Pathogenic, Anti-Viral, Metabolic and Cancer-Related Pathways for Deimination. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E2861. [PMID: 32325910 PMCID: PMC7215346 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21082861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The bovine immune system is known for its unusual traits relating to immunoglobulin and antiviral responses. Peptidylarginine deiminases (PADs) are phylogenetically conserved enzymes that cause post-translational deimination, contributing to protein moonlighting in health and disease. PADs also regulate extracellular vesicle (EV) release, forming a critical part of cellular communication. As PAD-mediated mechanisms in bovine immunology and physiology remain to be investigated, this study profiled deimination signatures in serum and serum-EVs in Bos taurus. Bos EVs were poly-dispersed in a 70-500 nm size range and showed differences in deiminated protein cargo, compared with whole sera. Key immune, metabolic and gene regulatory proteins were identified to be post-translationally deiminated with some overlapping hits in sera and EVs (e.g., immunoglobulins), while some were unique to either serum or serum-EVs (e.g., histones). Protein-protein interaction network analysis of deiminated proteins revealed KEGG pathways common for serum and serum-EVs, including complement and coagulation cascades, viral infection (enveloped viruses), viral myocarditis, bacterial and parasitic infections, autoimmune disease, immunodeficiency intestinal IgA production, B-cell receptor signalling, natural killer cell mediated cytotoxicity, platelet activation and hematopoiesis, alongside metabolic pathways including ferroptosis, vitamin digestion and absorption, cholesterol metabolism and mineral absorption. KEGG pathways specific to EVs related to HIF-1 signalling, oestrogen signalling and biosynthesis of amino acids. KEGG pathways specific for serum only, related to Epstein-Barr virus infection, transcription mis-regulation in cancer, bladder cancer, Rap1 signalling pathway, calcium signalling pathway and ECM-receptor interaction. This indicates differences in physiological and pathological pathways for deiminated proteins in serum-EVs, compared with serum. Our findings may shed light on pathways underlying a number of pathological and anti-pathogenic (viral, bacterial, parasitic) pathways, with putative translatable value to human pathologies, zoonotic diseases and development of therapies for infections, including anti-viral therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael F. Criscitiello
- Comparative Immunogenetics Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA;
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Igor Kraev
- Electron Microscopy Suite, Faculty of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Open University, Milton Keynes MK7 6AA, UK;
| | - Sigrun Lange
- Tissue Architecture and Regeneration Research Group, School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, London W1W 6XH, UK
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Bridi A, Perecin F, da Silveira JC. Extracellular Vesicles Mediated Early Embryo-Maternal Interactions. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E1163. [PMID: 32050564 PMCID: PMC7037557 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21031163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Revised: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo-maternal crosstalk is an important event that involves many biological processes, which must occur perfectly for pregnancy success. This complex communication starts from the zygote stage within the oviduct and continues in the uterus up to the end of pregnancy. Small extracellular vesicles (EVs) are part of this communication and carry bioactive molecules such as proteins, lipids, mRNA, and miRNA. Small EVs are present in the oviductal and uterine fluid and have important functions during fertilization and early embryonic development. Embryonic cells are able to uptake oviductal and endometrium-derived small EVs. Conversely, embryo-derived EVs might modulate oviductal and uterine function. In this review, our aim is to demonstrate the role of extracellular vesicles modulating embryo-maternal interactions during early pregnancy.
Collapse
|