1
|
Kashir J, Mistry BV, Rajab MA, BuSaleh L, Abu-Dawud R, Ahmed HA, Alharbi S, Nomikos M, AlHassan S, Coskun S, Assiri AM. The mammalian sperm factor phospholipase C zeta is critical for early embryo division and pregnancy in humans and mice. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:1256-1274. [PMID: 38670547 PMCID: PMC11145019 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae078] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are sperm phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ) profiles linked to the quality of embryogenesis and pregnancy? SUMMARY ANSWER Sperm PLCζ levels in both mouse and humans correlate with measures of ideal embryogenesis whereby minimal levels seem to be required to result in successful pregnancy. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY While causative factors underlying male infertility are multivariable, cases are increasingly associated with the efficacy of oocyte activation, which in mammals occurs in response to specific profiles of calcium (Ca2+) oscillations driven by sperm-specific PLCζ. Although sperm PLCζ abrogation is extensively linked with human male infertility where oocyte activation is deficient, less is clear as to whether sperm PLCζ levels or localization underlies cases of defective embryogenesis and failed pregnancy following fertility treatment. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A cohort of 54 couples undergoing fertility treatment were recruited at the assisted reproductive technology laboratory at the King Faisal Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The recruitment criteria for males was a minimum sperm concentration of 5×106 sperm/ml, while all female patients had to have at least five oocytes. Sperm PLCζ analysis was performed in research laboratories, while semen assessments were performed, and time-lapse morphokinetic data were obtained, in the fertility clinic as part of routine treatment. The CRISPR/Cas9 system was concurrently used to induce indels and single-nucleotide mutations within the Plcζ gene to generate strains of Plcζ mutant mice. Sperm PLCζ was evaluated using immunofluorescence and immunoblotting with an antibody of confirmed consistent specificity against PLCζ. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS We evaluated PLCζ profiles in sperm samples from 54 human couples undergoing fertility treatment in the context of time-lapse morphokinetic analysis of resultant embryos, correlating such profiles to pregnancy status. Concurrently, we generated two strains of mutant Plcζ mice using CRISPR/Cas9, and performed IVF with wild type (WT) oocytes and using WT or mutant Plcζ sperm to generate embryos. We also assessed PLCζ status in WT and mutant mice sperm in the context of time-lapse morphokinetic analysis and breeding outcomes. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A significant (P ≤ 0.05) positive relationship was observed between both PLCζ relative fluorescence and relative density with the times taken for both the second cell division (CC2) (r = 0.26 and r = 0.43, respectively) and the third cell division (S2) (r = 0.26). Examination of localization patterns also indicated significant correlations between the presence or absence of sperm PLCζ and CC2 (r = 0.27 and r = -0.27, respectively; P ≤ 0.025). Human sperm PLCζ levels were at their highest in the ideal times of CC2 (8-12 h) compared to time ranges outside the ideal timeframe (<8 and >12 h) where levels of human sperm PLCζ were lower. Following assignment of PLCζ level thresholds, quantification revealed a significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05) rate of successful pregnancy in values larger than the assigned cut-off for both relative fluorescence (19% vs 40%, respectively) and relative density (8% vs 54%, respectively). Immunoblotting indicated a single band for PLCζ at 74 kDa in sperm from WT mice, while a single band was also observed in sperm from heterozygous of Plcζ mutant mouse sperm, but at a diminished intensity. Immunofluorescent analysis indicated the previously reported (Kashir et al., 2021) fluorescence patterns in WT sperm, while sperm from Plcζ mutant mice exhibited a significantly diminished and dispersed pattern at the acrosomal region of the sperm head. Breeding experiments indicated a significantly reduced litter size of mutant Plcζ male mice compared to WT mice, while IVF-generated embryos using sperm from mutant Plcζ mice exhibited high rates of polyspermy, and resulted in significantly reduced numbers of these embryos reaching developmental milestones. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The human population examined was relatively small, and should be expanded to examine a larger multi-centre cohort. Infertility conditions are often multivariable, and it was not possible to evaluate all these in human patients. However, our mutant Plcζ mouse experiments do suggest that PLCζ plays a significant role in early embryo development. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS We found that minimal levels of PLCζ within a specific range were required for optimal early embryogenesis, correlating with increased pregnancy. Levels of sperm PLCζ below specific thresholds were associated with ineffective embryogenesis and lower pregnancy rates, despite eliciting successful fertilization in both mice and humans. To our knowledge, this represents the first time that PLCζ levels in sperm have been correlated to prognostic measures of embryogenic efficacy and pregnancy rates in humans. Our data suggest for the first time that the clinical utilization of PLCζ may stand to benefit not just a specific population of male infertility where oocyte activation is completely deficient (wherein PLCζ is completely defective/abrogated), but also perhaps the larger population of couples seeking fertility treatment. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) J.K. is supported by a faculty start up grant awarded by Khalifa University (FSU-2023-015). This study was also supported by a Healthcare Research Fellowship Award (HF-14-16) from Health and Care Research Wales (HCRW) to J.K., alongside a National Science, Technology, and Innovation plan (NSTIP) project grant (15-MED4186-20) awarded by the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) for J.K. and A.M.A. The authors declare no conflicts of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junaid Kashir
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Center for Biotechnology, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bhavesh V Mistry
- Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed A Rajab
- Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Lujain BuSaleh
- Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Raed Abu-Dawud
- Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Institute for Molecular Medicine, MSH Medical School, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hala A Ahmed
- Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarah Alharbi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Michail Nomikos
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Saad AlHassan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Serdar Coskun
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah M Assiri
- Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kapper C, Oppelt P, Ganhör C, Gyunesh AA, Arbeithuber B, Stelzl P, Rezk-Füreder M. Minerals and the Menstrual Cycle: Impacts on Ovulation and Endometrial Health. Nutrients 2024; 16:1008. [PMID: 38613041 PMCID: PMC11013220 DOI: 10.3390/nu16071008] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The role of minerals in female fertility, particularly in relation to the menstrual cycle, presents a complex area of study that underscores the interplay between nutrition and reproductive health. This narrative review aims to elucidate the impacts of minerals on key aspects of the reproductive system: hormonal regulation, ovarian function and ovulation, endometrial health, and oxidative stress. Despite the attention given to specific micronutrients in relation to reproductive disorders, there is a noticeable absence of a comprehensive review focusing on the impact of minerals throughout the menstrual cycle on female fertility. This narrative review aims to address this gap by examining the influence of minerals on reproductive health. Each mineral's contribution is explored in detail to provide a clearer picture of its importance in supporting female fertility. This comprehensive analysis not only enhances our knowledge of reproductive health but also offers clinicians valuable insights into potential therapeutic strategies and the recommended intake of minerals to promote female reproductive well-being, considering the menstrual cycle. This review stands as the first to offer such a detailed examination of minerals in the context of the menstrual cycle, aiming to elevate the understanding of their critical role in female fertility and reproductive health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Celine Kapper
- Experimental Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, 4040 Linz, Austria; (C.K.); (P.O.); (B.A.)
| | - Peter Oppelt
- Experimental Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, 4040 Linz, Austria; (C.K.); (P.O.); (B.A.)
- Department for Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Kepler University Hospital, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4020 Linz, Austria
| | - Clara Ganhör
- Division of Pathophysiology, Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical Faculty, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4020 Linz, Austria
- Clinical Research Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases, Medical Faculty, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4020 Linz, Austria
| | - Ayberk Alp Gyunesh
- Experimental Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, 4040 Linz, Austria; (C.K.); (P.O.); (B.A.)
| | - Barbara Arbeithuber
- Experimental Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, 4040 Linz, Austria; (C.K.); (P.O.); (B.A.)
| | - Patrick Stelzl
- Department for Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Kepler University Hospital, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4020 Linz, Austria
| | - Marlene Rezk-Füreder
- Experimental Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, 4040 Linz, Austria; (C.K.); (P.O.); (B.A.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Akizawa H, Lopes EM, Fissore RA. Zn 2+ is essential for Ca 2+ oscillations in mouse eggs. eLife 2023; 12:RP88082. [PMID: 38099643 PMCID: PMC10723796 DOI: 10.7554/elife.88082] [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] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Changes in the intracellular concentration of free calcium (Ca2+) underpin egg activation and initiation of development in animals and plants. In mammals, the Ca2+ release is periodical, known as Ca2+ oscillations, and mediated by the type 1 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R1). Another divalent cation, zinc (Zn2+), increases exponentially during oocyte maturation and is vital for meiotic transitions, arrests, and polyspermy prevention. It is unknown if these pivotal cations interplay during fertilization. Here, using mouse eggs, we showed that basal concentrations of labile Zn2+ are indispensable for sperm-initiated Ca2+ oscillations because Zn2+-deficient conditions induced by cell-permeable chelators abrogated Ca2+ responses evoked by fertilization and other physiological and pharmacological agonists. We also found that chemically or genetically generated eggs with lower levels of labile Zn2+ displayed reduced IP3R1 sensitivity and diminished ER Ca2+ leak despite the stable content of the stores and IP3R1 mass. Resupplying Zn2+ restarted Ca2+ oscillations, but excessive Zn2+ prevented and terminated them, hindering IP3R1 responsiveness. The findings suggest that a window of Zn2+ concentrations is required for Ca2+ responses and IP3R1 function in eggs, ensuring optimal response to fertilization and egg activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Akizawa
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts AmherstAmherstUnited States
| | - Emily M Lopes
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts AmherstAmherstUnited States
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Graduate Program, University of MassachusettsAmherstUnited States
| | - Rafael A Fissore
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts AmherstAmherstUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gonzalez-Castro RA, Carnevale EM. Phospholipase C Zeta 1 (PLCZ1): The Function and Potential for Fertility Assessment and In Vitro Embryo Production in Cattle and Horses. Vet Sci 2023; 10:698. [PMID: 38133249 PMCID: PMC10747197 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10120698] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Phospholipase C Zeta 1 (PLCZ1) is considered a major sperm-borne oocyte activation factor. After gamete fusion, PLCZ1 triggers calcium oscillations in the oocyte, resulting in oocyte activation. In assisted fertilization, oocyte activation failure is a major cause of low fertility. Most cases of oocyte activation failures in humans related to male infertility are associated with gene mutations and/or altered PLCZ1. Consequently, PLCZ1 evaluation could be an effective diagnostic marker and predictor of sperm fertilizing potential for in vivo and in vitro embryo production. The characterization of PLCZ1 has been principally investigated in men and mice, with less known about the PLCZ1 impact on assisted reproduction in other species, such as cattle and horses. In horses, sperm PLCZ1 varies among stallions, and sperm populations with high PLCZ1 are associated with cleavage after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). In contrast, bull sperm is less able to initiate calcium oscillations and undergo nuclear remodeling, resulting in poor cleavage after ICSI. Advantageously, injections of PLCZ1 are able to rescue oocyte failure in mouse oocytes after ICSI, promoting full development and birth. However, further research is needed to optimize PLCZ1 diagnostic tests for consistent association with fertility and to determine whether PLCZ1 as an oocyte-activating treatment is a physiological, efficient, and safe method for improving assisted fertilization in cattle and horses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Elaine M. Carnevale
- Equine Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bafleh WS, Abdulsamad HMR, Al-Qaraghuli SM, El Khatib RY, Elbahrawi RT, Abdukadir AM, Alsawae SM, Dimassi Z, Hamdan H, Kashir J. Applications of advances in mRNA-based platforms as therapeutics and diagnostics in reproductive technologies. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1198848. [PMID: 37305677 PMCID: PMC10250609 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1198848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent COVID-19 pandemic led to many drastic changes in not only society, law, economics, but also in science and medicine, marking for the first time when drug regulatory authorities cleared for use mRNA-based vaccines in the fight against this outbreak. However, while indeed representing a novel application of such technology in the context of vaccination medicine, introducing RNA into cells to produce resultant molecules (proteins, antibodies, etc.) is not a novel principle. It has been common practice to introduce/inject mRNA into oocytes and embryos to inhibit, induce, and identify several factors in a research context, while such aspects have also been proposed as potential therapeutic and diagnostic applications to combat infertility in humans. Herein, we describe key areas where mRNA-based platforms have thus far represented potential areas of clinical applications, describing the advantages and limitations of such applications. Finally, we also discuss how recent advances in mRNA-based platforms, driven by the recent pandemic, may stand to benefit the treatment of infertility in humans. We also present brief future directions as to how we could utilise recent and current advancements to enhance RNA therapeutics within reproductive biology, specifically with relation to oocyte and embryo delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wjdan S. Bafleh
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Haia M. R. Abdulsamad
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sally M. Al-Qaraghuli
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Riwa Y. El Khatib
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rawdah Taha Elbahrawi
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Azhar Mohamud Abdukadir
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Zakia Dimassi
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hamdan Hamdan
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Healthcare Engineering Innovation Center (HEIC), Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Junaid Kashir
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Science, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
The Therapeutic and Diagnostic Potential of Phospholipase C Zeta, Oocyte Activation, and Calcium in Treating Human Infertility. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16030441. [PMID: 36986540 PMCID: PMC10056371 DOI: 10.3390/ph16030441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Oocyte activation, a fundamental event during mammalian fertilisation, is initiated by concerted intracellular patterns of calcium (Ca2+) release, termed Ca2+ oscillations, predominantly driven by testis-specific phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ). Ca2+ exerts a pivotal role in not just regulating oocyte activation and driving fertilisation, but also in influencing the quality of embryogenesis. In humans, a failure of Ca2+ release, or defects in related mechanisms, have been reported to result in infertility. Furthermore, mutations in the PLCζ gene and abnormalities in sperm PLCζ protein and RNA, have been strongly associated with forms of male infertility where oocyte activation is deficient. Concurrently, specific patterns and profiles of PLCζ in human sperm have been linked to parameters of semen quality, suggesting the potential for PLCζ as a powerful target for both therapeutics and diagnostics of human fertility. However, further to PLCζ and given the strong role played by Ca2+ in fertilisation, targets down- and up-stream of this process may also present a significantly similar level of promise. Herein, we systematically summarise recent advancements and controversies in the field to update expanding clinical associations between Ca2+-release, PLCζ, oocyte activation and human fertility. We discuss how such associations may potentially underlie defective embryogenesis and recurrent implantation failure following fertility treatments, alongside potential diagnostic and therapeutic avenues presented by oocyte activation for the diagnosis and treatment of human infertility.
Collapse
|
7
|
Zhang X, Li L, Zhang W, Luo Y, Mao Y, Du H, Li L. Embryo development and live birth resulted from artificial oocyte activation after microdissection testicular sperm extraction with ICSI in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1123541. [PMID: 36896176 PMCID: PMC9989460 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1123541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The application of microdissection testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) to retrieve the sperm of patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) has greatly increased. Patients with NOA often have poor quality sperm. Unfortunately, there are few studies on artificial oocyte activation (AOA) performed on patients who successfully retrieved motile and immotile sperm by micro-TESE after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Therefore, this study sought to obtain more comprehensive evidence-based data and embryo development outcomes to aid consultation of patients with NOA who opted to receive assisted reproductive techniques and to determine whether AOA needs to be performed in different motile sperm after ICSI. METHODS This retrospective study involved 235 patients with NOA who underwent micro-TESE to retrieve adequate sperm for ICSI between January 2018 and December 2020. A total of 331 ICSI cycles were performed in the 235 couples. Embryological, clinical, and neonatal outcomes were demonstrated comprehensively between motile sperm and immotile sperm using AOA and non-AOA treatment. RESULTS Motile sperm injection with AOA (group 1) showed significantly higher fertility rate (72.77% vs. 67.59%, p=0.005), 2 pronucleus (2PN) fertility rate (64.33% vs. 60.22%, p=0.036), and miscarriage rate (17.65% vs. 2.44%, p=0.018) compared with motile sperm injection with non-AOA (group 2). Group 1 had comparable available embryo rate (41.29% vs. 40.74%, p=0.817), good embryo rate (13.44% vs. 15.44%, p=0.265), and without an embryo for transfer rate (10.85% vs. 9.90%, p=0.815) compared with group 2. Immotile sperm injection with AOA (group 3) displayed significantly higher fertility rate (78.56% vs. 67.59%, p=0.000), 2PN fertility rate (67.36% vs. 60.22%, p=0.001), without an embryo for transfer rate (23.76% vs. 9.90%, p=0.008), and miscarriage rate (20.00% vs. 2.44%, p=0.014), but significantly lower available embryo rate (26.63% vs.40.74%, p=0.000) and good embryo rate (15.44% vs. 6.99%, p=0.000) compared with group 2. In groups 1, 2, and 3, the rates of implantation (34.87%, 31.85% and 28.00%, respectively; p=0.408), clinical pregnancy (43.87%, 41.00%, and 34.48%, respectively; p=0.360) and live birth (36.13%, 40.00%, and 27.59%, respectively; p=0.194) were similar. DISCUSSION For those patients with NOA from whom adequate sperm were retrieved for ICSI, AOA could improve fertilization rate, but not embryo quality and live birth outcomes. For patients with NOA and only immotile sperm, AOA can help achieve acceptable fertilization rate and live birth outcomes. AOA is recommended for patients with NOA only when immotile sperm are injected.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xi Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Disease, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Disease, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenhong Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Disease, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yang Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Disease, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuling Mao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Disease, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongzi Du
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Disease, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Lei Li, ; Hongzi Du,
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Disease, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Lei Li, ; Hongzi Du,
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Savy V, Stein P, Shi M, Williams CJ. PMCA1 depletion in mouse eggs amplifies calcium signaling and impacts offspring growth†. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:1439-1451. [PMID: 36130203 PMCID: PMC10144700 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac180] [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: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Egg activation in mammals is triggered by oscillations in egg intracellular calcium (Ca2+) level. Ca2+ oscillation patterns can be modified in vitro by changing the ionic composition of culture media or in vivo by conditions affecting mitochondrial function, such as obesity and inflammation. In mice, disruption of Ca2+ oscillations in vitro impacts embryo development and offspring growth. Here we tested the hypothesis that, even without in vitro manipulation, abnormal Ca2+ signaling following fertilization impacts offspring growth. Plasma membrane Ca2+ ATPases (PMCA) extrude cytosolic Ca2+ to restore Ca2+ homeostasis. To disrupt Ca2+ signaling in vivo, we conditionally deleted PMCA1 (cKO) in oocytes. As anticipated, in vitro fertilized cKO eggs had increased Ca2+ exposure relative to controls. To assess the impact on offspring growth, cKO females were mated to wild type males to generate pups that had high Ca2+ exposure at fertilization. Because these offspring would be heterozygous, we also tested the impact of global PMCA1 heterozygosity on offspring growth. Control heterozygous pups that had normal Ca2+ at fertilization were generated by mating wild type females to heterozygous males; these control offspring weighed significantly less than their wild type siblings. However, heterozygous offspring from cKO eggs (and high Ca2+ exposure) were larger than heterozygous controls at 12 week-of-age and males had altered body composition. Our results show that global PMCA1 haploinsufficiency impacts growth and support that abnormal Ca2+ signaling after fertilization in vivo has a long-term impact on offspring weight. These findings are relevant for environmental and medical conditions affecting Ca2+ handling and for design of culture conditions and procedures for domestic animal and human assisted reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Savy
- Reproductive & Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Paula Stein
- Reproductive & Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Min Shi
- Biostatistics & Computational Biology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Carmen J Williams
- Reproductive & Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wang H, Christenson LK, Kinsey WH. Changes in cortical endoplasmic reticulum clusters in the fertilized mouse oocyte†. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:1254-1263. [PMID: 36136741 PMCID: PMC9663941 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac177] [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: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocytes from many invertebrate and vertebrate species exhibit unique endoplasmic reticulum (ER) specializations (cortical ER clusters), which are thought to be essential for egg activation. In examination of cortical ER clusters, we observed that they were tethered to previously unreported fenestrae within the cortical actin layer. Furthermore, studies demonstrated that sperm preferentially bind to the plasma membrane overlying the fenestrae, establishing close proximity to underlying ER clusters. Moreover, following sperm-oocyte fusion, cortical ER clusters undergo a previously unrecognized global change in volume and shape that persists through sperm incorporation, before dispersing at the pronuclear stage. These changes did not occur in oocytes from females mated with Izumo1 -/- males. In addition to these global changes, highly localized ER modifications were noted at the sperm binding site as cortical ER clusters surround the sperm head during incorporation, then form a diffuse cloud surrounding the decondensing sperm nucleus. This study provides the first evidence that cortical ER clusters interact with the fertilizing sperm, indirectly through a previous unknown lattice work of actin fenestrae, and then directly during sperm incorporation. These observations raise the possibility that oocyte ER cluster-sperm interactions provide a competitive advantage to the oocyte, which may not occur during assisted reproductive technologies such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huizhen Wang
- Department Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Lane K Christenson
- Department Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - William H Kinsey
- Department Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Di Berardino C, Peserico A, Capacchietti G, Zappacosta A, Bernabò N, Russo V, Mauro A, El Khatib M, Gonnella F, Konstantinidou F, Stuppia L, Gatta V, Barboni B. High-Fat Diet and Female Fertility across Lifespan: A Comparative Lesson from Mammal Models. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14204341. [PMID: 36297035 PMCID: PMC9610022 DOI: 10.3390/nu14204341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Female reproduction focuses mainly on achieving fully grown follicles and competent oocytes to be successfully fertilized, as well as on nourishing the developing offspring once pregnancy occurs. Current evidence demonstrates that obesity and/or high-fat diet regimes can perturbate these processes, leading to female infertility and transgenerational disorders. Since the mechanisms and reproductive processes involved are not yet fully clarified, the present review is designed as a systematic and comparative survey of the available literature. The available data demonstrate the adverse influences of obesity on diverse reproductive processes, such as folliculogenesis, oogenesis, and embryo development/implant. The negative reproductive impact may be attributed to a direct action on reproductive somatic and germinal compartments and/or to an indirect influence mediated by the endocrine, metabolic, and immune axis control systems. Overall, the present review highlights the fragmentation of the current information limiting the comprehension of the reproductive impact of a high-fat diet. Based on the incidence and prevalence of obesity in the Western countries, this topic becomes a research challenge to increase self-awareness of dietary reproductive risk to propose solid and rigorous preventive dietary regimes, as well as to develop targeted pharmacological interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Di Berardino
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Alessia Peserico
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Giulia Capacchietti
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Alex Zappacosta
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Nicola Bernabò
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), National Research Council, A. Buzzati-Traverso Campus, via E. Ramarini 32, Monterotondo Scalo, 00015 Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Russo
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Annunziata Mauro
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Mohammad El Khatib
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Francesca Gonnella
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
- Department of Psychological Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Unit of Molecular Genetics, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Fani Konstantinidou
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
- Department of Psychological Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Unit of Molecular Genetics, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Liborio Stuppia
- Department of Psychological Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Unit of Molecular Genetics, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Valentina Gatta
- Department of Psychological Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Unit of Molecular Genetics, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Barbara Barboni
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Tsai TE, Lin PH, Lian PF, Li CJ, Vitale SG, Mikuš M, Su WP, Tsai HW, Tsui KH, Lin LT. Artificial oocyte activation may improve embryo quality in older patients with diminished ovarian reserve undergoing IVF-ICSI cycles. J Ovarian Res 2022; 15:102. [PMID: 36085215 PMCID: PMC9463812 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-022-01036-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Artificial oocyte activation (AOA) is used to improve fertilization rate following fertilization failure after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Several studies have also shown that AOA may be involved in embryo development. Women with poor ovarian response are more likely to encounter in vitro fertilization (IVF) failure due to poor embryo quality. The aim of this study was to investigate whether AOA could improve embryo quality in older patients with diminished ovarian reserve undergoing IVF-ICSI cycles. METHODS The retrospective cohort study consisted of 308 patients who fulfilled the POSEIDON Group 4 criteria and received IVF-ICSI cycles. The study group included 91 patients receiving AOA with calcium ionophores following ICSI. A total of 168 patients in the control group underwent ICSI without AOA. The baseline and cycle characteristics and embryo quality were compared between the two groups. RESULTS At baseline, there were more IVF attempts, greater primary infertility, higher basal FSH levels and lower anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels in the AOA group than in the non-AOA group. In terms of embryo quality, there were higher cleavage rates and top-quality Day 3 embryo (TQE) rates, as well as higher percentages of more than 1 TQE and TQE rates ≥50 in the AOA group than in the non-AOA group. The multivariate analysis revealed that AOA was positively associated with more than 1 TQE (adjusted OR 3.24, 95% CI 1.63-6.45, P = 0.001) and a TQE rate ≥ 50 (adjusted OR 2.14, 95% CI 1.20-3.80, P = 0.010). When the study population was divided into 2 subgroups based on the age of 40 years old, the beneficial effects of AOA on embryo quality were only observed in the subgroup of age ≥ 40 years old. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that AOA with calcium ionophores may improve embryo quality in older patients with diminished ovarian reserve undergoing IVF-ICSI cycles, especially in women aged ≥40 years.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tzung-En Tsai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Hsuan Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Fen Lian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Jung Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.,Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Salvatore Giovanni Vitale
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, 95124, Catania, Italy
| | - Mislav Mikuš
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Wan-Ping Su
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Wen Tsai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Hao Tsui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.,Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Li-Te Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan. .,Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei City, Taiwan. .,Department of Biological Science, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bovine ICSI: limiting factors, strategies to improve its efficiency and alternative approaches. ZYGOTE 2022; 30:749-767. [PMID: 36082429 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199422000296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is an assisted reproductive technique mainly used to overcome severe infertility problems associated with the male factor, but in cattle its efficiency is far from optimal. Artificial activation treatments combining ionomycin (Io) with 6-dimethylaminopurine after piezo-ICSI or anisomycin after conventional ICSI have recently increased the blastocyst rate obtained. Compounds to capacitate bovine spermatozoa, such as heparin and methyl-β-cyclodextrin and compounds to destabilize sperm membranes such as NaOH, lysolecithin and Triton X-100, have been assessed, although they have failed to substantially improve post-ICSI embryonic development. Disulfide bond reducing agents, such as dithiothreitol (DTT), dithiobutylamine and reduced glutathione, have been assessed to decondense the hypercondensed head of bovine spermatozoa, the two latter being more efficient than DTT and less harmful. Although piezo-directed ICSI without external activation has generated high fertilization rates and modest rates of early embryo development, other studies have required exogenous activation to improve the results. This manuscript thoroughly reviews the different strategies used in bovine ICSI to improve its efficiency and proposes some alternative approaches, such as the use of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as 'biological methods of oocyte activation' or the incorporation of EVs in the in vitro maturation and/or culture medium as antioxidant defence agents to improve the competence of the ooplasm, as well as a preincubation of the spermatozoa in estrous oviductal fluid to induce physiological capacitation and acrosome reaction before ICSI, and the use of hyaluronate in the sperm immobilization medium.
Collapse
|
13
|
Fluks M, Tamborski S, Szkulmowski M, Ajduk A. Optical coherence microscopy allows for quality assessment of immature mouse oocytes. Reproduction 2022; 164:83-95. [PMID: 35900349 DOI: 10.1530/rep-22-0178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In brief Optical coherence microscopy is a label-free and non-invasive imaging technique capable of 3D subcellular structure visualization. Here we show that this method allows for quality assessment of immature mouse oocytes based on their chromatin conformation and can be a valuable addition to the toolkit used in assisted reproduction procedures. Abstract The success of assisted reproductive technologies, and particularly in vitro maturation, is tightly linked to the quality of oocytes. Therefore, there is a need for robust, reliable, and easy-to-assess biomarkers of oocyte developmental competence. Microscopy techniques visualizing oocyte intracellular structure could provide such biomarkers. However, fluorescence imaging methods, applied frequently in biology and allowing for detailed structural and dynamic studies of single cells, require fluorescent tags to visualize cellular architecture and may cause short- and long-term photo-damage. On the other hand, traditional light microscopy, although relatively non-invasive, does not provide detailed structural information. Optical coherence microscopy (OCM) is a promising alternative, as it does not require sample pre-processing or labelling and can provide 3D images of intracellular structures. Here we applied OCM to assess the chromatin conformation of immature mouse oocytes, a feature that corresponds with their transcriptional status and developmental competence and cannot be examined by traditional light microscopy. We showed that OCM distinguished oocytes with so-called non-surrounded nucleoli (NSN) and surrounded nucleoli (SN) chromatin conformation with very high sensitivity and specificity and that OCM scanning did not decrease the quality of oocytes. Finally, we cross-referenced OCM data with the oocyte ability to undergo normal nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation and proven that indeed oocytes scored with OCM as NSN mature less effectively than oocytes scored as SN. Our results suggest that OCM may be a valuable addition to the imaging toolkit used in assisted reproduction procedures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monika Fluks
- Department of Embryology, Institute of Developmental Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Szymon Tamborski
- Institute of Physics, Faculty of Physics, Astronomy, and Informatics, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Toruń, Poland
| | - Maciej Szkulmowski
- Institute of Physics, Faculty of Physics, Astronomy, and Informatics, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, Toruń, Poland
| | - Anna Ajduk
- Department of Embryology, Institute of Developmental Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Testis-Specific Isoform of Na+-K+ ATPase and Regulation of Bull Fertility. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147936. [PMID: 35887284 PMCID: PMC9317330 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
An advanced understanding of sperm function is relevant for evidence-based male fertility prediction and addressing male infertility. A standard breeding soundness evaluation (BSE) merely identifies gross abnormalities in bulls, whereas selection based on single nucleotide polymorphisms and genomic estimated breeding values overlooks sub-microscopic differences in sperm. Molecular tools are important for validating genomic selection and advancing knowledge on the regulation of male fertility at an interdisciplinary level. Therefore, research in this field is now focused on developing a combination of in vitro sperm function tests and identifying biomarkers such as sperm proteins with critical roles in fertility. The Na+-K+ ATPase is a ubiquitous transmembrane protein and its α4 isoform (ATP1A4) is exclusively expressed in germ cells and sperm. Furthermore, ATP1A4 is essential for male fertility, as it interacts with signaling molecules in both raft and non-raft fractions of the sperm plasma membrane to regulate capacitation-associated signaling, hyperactivation, sperm-oocyte interactions, and activation. Interestingly, ATP1A4 activity and expression increase during capacitation, challenging the widely accepted dogma of sperm translational quiescence. This review discusses the literature on the role of ATP1A4 during capacitation and fertilization events and its prospective use in improving male fertility prediction.
Collapse
|
15
|
Jiang Y, Song G, Yuan JC, Zhang XH, Wu XH. Genetic analysis of recurrent parthenogenesis: A case report and literature review. Exp Ther Med 2022; 24:530. [PMID: 35837054 PMCID: PMC9257975 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2022.11457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study reported a case of bilateral salpingectomy for an ectopic pregnancy with recurrent parthenogenesis over two in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles. The first IVF cycle resulted in short-time fertilization. Two cleaved embryos were present after removing the cumulus cells. In the second cycle, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) was performed directly and two 6-cell embryos were discovered again prior to the injection. Embryo biopsy, genome amplification, copy number variation (CNV) and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis were performed on the two 6-cell embryos of the second cycle. The results of the CNV analysis indicated a genotype of 39,XX,+1,+1,+1,+1,+6q,+6q,+6q,-7p(x1),-10(x1),-13(x0),-15(x0),-17(x1),-18(x1),-19(x1),-20(x1) and the SNP analysis reported that only those chromosomes with one copy had a signal pattern similar to that obtained for an uniparental disomy. Although repeated spontaneous parthenogenesis was observed, the other metaphase II oocytes were fertilized normally after ICSI and the patient became pregnant. A literature review indicated that parthenogenesis may occur in individuals from various populations, and the patients always have a history of either recurrent miscarriages or bilateral tubal obstruction with or without ovarian/fallopian tube surgery. In certain cases, 1 pronucleus (PN) appears and cleaves later and in others, four-to six-cell embryos appear directly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Jiang
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050011, P.R. China
| | - Ge Song
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050011, P.R. China
| | - Jing-Chuan Yuan
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050011, P.R. China
| | - Xu-Hui Zhang
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050011, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Hua Wu
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, The Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050011, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Esbert M, Carmody A, Ballesteros A, Seli E, Scott RT. Calcium Ionophore A23187 treatment to rescue unfertilized oocytes: a prospective randomized analysis of sibling oocytes. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:878-883. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
|
17
|
Yuan LM, Chen YL, Shi XH, Wu XX, Liu XJ, Liu SP, Chen N, Sai WJF. PLCζ can stably regulate Ca2+ fluctuations in early embryo. Theriogenology 2022; 191:16-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
|
18
|
Effect of A23187 ionophore treatment on human blastocyst development-a sibling oocyte study. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:1225-1232. [PMID: 35357606 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02467-3] [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: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate whether treatment with commercially available ready-to-use A23187 ionophore (GM508-CultActive) improves embryo development outcome in patients with a history of embryo developmental problems. METHODS This is a uni-center prospective study in which sibling oocytes of patients with embryos of poor quality on day 5 in the previous cycle were treated or not with CultActive. RESULTS Two hundred forty-seven metaphase II (MII) oocytes from 19 cycles performed between 2016 and 2019 were included in the study. After ICSI, the sibling oocytes were assigned to the treatment group or to the control group, following an electronically generated randomization list. A number of 122 MII were treated with CultActive and 125 MII had no treatment and were assigned to the control group. No difference in fertilization rate (p = 0.255) or in the capacity of embryos to reach good quality on day 5 (p = 0.197) was observed between the two groups. The utilization rates defined as the number of embryos transferred or cryopreserved per mature oocyte (p = 0.438) or per fertilized oocytes (p = 0.299) were not significantly different between the treated group and the control group. CONCLUSION The results of the current study do not support the use of CultActive in cases with embryo developmental problems.
Collapse
|
19
|
Kashir J, Ganesh D, Jones C, Coward K. OUP accepted manuscript. Hum Reprod Open 2022; 2022:hoac003. [PMID: 35261925 PMCID: PMC8894871 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoac003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oocyte activation deficiency (OAD) is attributed to the majority of cases underlying failure of ICSI cycles, the standard treatment for male factor infertility. Oocyte activation encompasses a series of concerted events, triggered by sperm-specific phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ), which elicits increases in free cytoplasmic calcium (Ca2+) in spatially and temporally specific oscillations. Defects in this specific pattern of Ca2+ release are directly attributable to most cases of OAD. Ca2+ release can be clinically mediated via assisted oocyte activation (AOA), a combination of mechanical, electrical and/or chemical stimuli which artificially promote an increase in the levels of intra-cytoplasmic Ca2+. However, concerns regarding safety and efficacy underlie potential risks that must be addressed before such methods can be safely widely used. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Recent advances in current AOA techniques warrant a review of the safety and efficacy of these practices, to determine the extent to which AOA may be implemented in the clinic. Importantly, the primary challenges to obtaining data on the safety and efficacy of AOA must be determined. Such questions require urgent attention before widespread clinical utilization of such protocols can be advocated. SEARCH METHODS A literature review was performed using databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, etc. using AOA, OAD, calcium ionophores, ICSI, PLCζ, oocyte activation, failed fertilization and fertilization failure as keywords. Relevant articles published until June 2019 were analysed and included in the review, with an emphasis on studies assessing large-scale efficacy and safety. OUTCOMES Contradictory studies on the safety and efficacy of AOA do not yet allow for the establishment of AOA as standard practice in the clinic. Heterogeneity in study methodology, inconsistent sample inclusion criteria, non-standardized outcome assessments, restricted sample size and animal model limitations render AOA strictly experimental. The main scientific concern impeding AOA utilization in the clinic is the non-physiological method of Ca2+ release mediated by most AOA agents, coupled with a lack of holistic understanding regarding the physiological mechanism(s) underlying Ca2+ release at oocyte activation. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The number of studies with clinical relevance using AOA remains significantly low. A much wider range of studies examining outcomes using multiple AOA agents are required. WIDER IMPLICATIONS In addition to addressing the five main challenges of studies assessing AOA safety and efficacy, more standardized, large-scale, multi-centre studies of AOA, as well as long-term follow-up studies of children born from AOA, would provide evidence for establishing AOA as a treatment for infertility. The delivery of an activating agent that can more accurately recapitulate physiological fertilization, such as recombinant PLCζ, is a promising prospect for the future of AOA. Further to PLCζ, many other avenues of physiological oocyte activation also require urgent investigation to assess other potential physiological avenues of AOA. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS D.G. was supported by Stanford University’s Bing Overseas Study Program. J.K. was supported by a Healthcare Research Fellowship Award (HF-14-16) made by Health and Care Research Wales (HCRW), alongside a National Science, Technology, and Innovation plan (NSTIP) project grant (15-MED4186-20) awarded by the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST). The authors have no competing interests to declare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Celine Jones
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women’s Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Kevin Coward
- Correspondence address. Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women’s Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OS3 9DU, UK. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3577-4041
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Uh K, Hay A, Chen P, Reese E, Lee K. Design of novel oocyte activation methods: The role of zinc. Biol Reprod 2021; 106:264-273. [PMID: 34935887 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte activation occurs at the time of fertilization and is a series of cellular events initiated by intracellular Ca2+ increases. Consequently, oocytes are alleviated from their arrested state in meiotic metaphase II (MII), allowing for the completion of meiosis. Oocyte activation is also an essential step for somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) and an important tool to overcome clinical infertility. Traditional artificial activation methods aim to mimic the intracellular Ca2+ changes which occur during fertilization. Recent studies emphasize the importance of cytoplasmic Zn2+ on oocyte maturation and the completion of meiosis, thus suggesting artificial oocyte activation approaches that are centered around the concentration of available Zn2+in oocytes. Depletion of intracellular Zn2+ in oocytes with heavy metal chelators leads to successful oocyte activation in the absence of cellular Ca2+ changes, indicating that successful oocyte activation does not always depends on intracellular Ca2+ increases. Current findings lead to new approaches to artificially activate mammalian oocytes by reducing available Zn2+ contents, and the approaches improve the outcome of oocyte activation when combined with existing Ca2+ based oocyte activation methods. Here, we review the important role of Ca2+ and Zn2+ in mammalian oocyte activation and development of novel oocyte activation approaches based on Zn2+ availability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kyungjun Uh
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
| | - Alayna Hay
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
| | - Paula Chen
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
| | - Emily Reese
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
| | - Kiho Lee
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Yin M, Li M, Li W, Wu L, Yan Z, Zhao J, Ouyang J, Lyu Q, Yan Z, Li B. Efficacy of artificial oocyte activation in patients with embryo developmental problems: a sibling oocyte control study. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2021; 305:1225-1231. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-021-06329-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
22
|
Aras-Tosun D, Cakar Z, Can A, Ozkavukcu S, Kaplanoglu I, Cinar O. Phospholipase C-zeta levels are not correlated with fertilisation rates in infertile couples. Andrologia 2021; 54:e14269. [PMID: 34651330 DOI: 10.1111/and.14269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, 'oocyte activation' is triggered by certain proteins, one of which is phospholipase C-zeta. Recent evidence suggests that low expression of phospholipase C-zeta might be associated with male infertility, while a limited number of studies claimed the opposite. This study was designed to test whether quantity of phospholipase C-zeta and in vitro fertilisation rates are correlated or not, assessed by flow cytometry. Semen samples from 43 infertile couples were analysed for the percentage and mean fluorescent intensity (MFI) of phospholipase C-zeta protein. Results were confirmed by immunofluorescent labelling. Patients with a fertilisation rate of 40% or lower were involved in the low fertilisation group, while the high fertilization group consisted of patients with a fertilisation rate of 60% and higher. Quantitative analyses by flow cytometry showed no significant difference among the low fertilisation and high fertilisation groups when phospholipase C-zeta ratio or MFI was considered. No correlation was found between pregnancy rates and phospholipase C-zeta quantity. None of the total fertilisation failure cases were lack of phospholipase C-zeta. In fact, fertilisation was possible even when phospholipase C-zeta levels were very low. Thus, we concluded that phospholipase C-zeta quantity cannot be considered as a diagnostic tool for male infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Duru Aras-Tosun
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Ankara University School of Dentistry, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Zeynep Cakar
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Alp Can
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sinan Ozkavukcu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey.,Centre for Assisted Reproduction, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Iskender Kaplanoglu
- Centre for Assisted Reproductive Medicine, TCSB Etlik Zubeyde Hanim Women's Health Teaching and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ozgur Cinar
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey.,Centre for Assisted Reproduction, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Rojas J, Hinostroza F, Vergara S, Pinto-Borguero I, Aguilera F, Fuentes R, Carvacho I. Knockin' on Egg's Door: Maternal Control of Egg Activation That Influences Cortical Granule Exocytosis in Animal Species. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:704867. [PMID: 34540828 PMCID: PMC8446563 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.704867] [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: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertilization by multiple sperm leads to lethal chromosomal number abnormalities, failed embryo development, and miscarriage. In some vertebrate and invertebrate eggs, the so-called cortical reaction contributes to their activation and prevents polyspermy during fertilization. This process involves biogenesis, redistribution, and subsequent accumulation of cortical granules (CGs) at the female gamete cortex during oogenesis. CGs are oocyte- and egg-specific secretory vesicles whose content is discharged during fertilization to block polyspermy. Here, we summarize the molecular mechanisms controlling critical aspects of CG biology prior to and after the gametes interaction. This allows to block polyspermy and provide protection to the developing embryo. We also examine how CGs form and are spatially redistributed during oogenesis. During egg activation, CG exocytosis (CGE) and content release are triggered by increases in intracellular calcium and relies on the function of maternally-loaded proteins. We also discuss how mutations in these factors impact CG dynamics, providing unprecedented models to investigate the genetic program executing fertilization. We further explore the phylogenetic distribution of maternal proteins and signaling pathways contributing to CGE and egg activation. We conclude that many important biological questions and genotype–phenotype relationships during fertilization remain unresolved, and therefore, novel molecular players of CG biology need to be discovered. Future functional and image-based studies are expected to elucidate the identity of genetic candidates and components of the molecular machinery involved in the egg activation. This, will open new therapeutic avenues for treating infertility in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Japhet Rojas
- Laboratorio Fisiología de la Reproducción, Departamento de Biología y Química, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile.,Escuela de Ingeniería en Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias y Forestales, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile
| | - Fernando Hinostroza
- Laboratorio Fisiología de la Reproducción, Departamento de Biología y Química, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile.,Centro de Investigación de Estudios Avanzados del Maule (CIEAM), Vicerrectoría de Investigación y Postgrado, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile.,Centro de Investigación en Neuropsicología y Neurociencias Cognitivas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile
| | - Sebastián Vergara
- Laboratorio Fisiología de la Reproducción, Departamento de Biología y Química, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile.,Escuela de Ingeniería en Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias y Forestales, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile
| | - Ingrid Pinto-Borguero
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Felipe Aguilera
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Ricardo Fuentes
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Ingrid Carvacho
- Laboratorio Fisiología de la Reproducción, Departamento de Biología y Química, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ferrer-Buitrago M, Tilleman L, Thys V, Hachem A, Boel A, Van Nieuwerburgh F, Deforce D, Leybaert L, De Sutter P, Parrington J, Heindryckx B. Comparative study of preimplantation development following distinct assisted oocyte activation protocols in a PLC-zeta knockout mouse model. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 26:801-815. [PMID: 32898251 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian fertilization encompasses a series of Ca2+ oscillations initiated by the sperm factor phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ). Some studies have shown that altering the Ca2+ oscillatory regime at fertilization affects preimplantation blastocyst development. However, assisted oocyte activation (AOA) protocols can induce oocyte activation in a manner that diverges profoundly from the physiological Ca2+ profiling. In our study, we used the newly developed PLCζ-null sperm to investigate the independent effect of AOA on mouse preimplantation embryogenesis. Based on previous findings, we hypothesized that AOA protocols with Ca2+ oscillatory responses might improve blastocyst formation rates and differing Ca2+ profiles might alter blastocyst transcriptomes. A total of 326 MII B6D2F1-oocytes were used to describe Ca2+ profiles and to compare embryonic development and individual blastocyst transcriptomes between four control conditions: C1 (in-vivo fertilization), C2 (ICSI control sperm), C3 (parthenogenesis) and C4 (ICSI-PLCζ-KO sperm) and four AOA groups: AOA1 (human recombinant PLCζ), AOA2 (Sr2+), AOA3 (ionomycin) and AOA4 (TPEN). All groups revealed remarkable variations in their Ca2+ profiles; however, oocyte activation rates were comparable between the controls (91.1% ± 13.8%) and AOA (86.9% ± 11.1%) groups. AOA methods which enable Ca2+ oscillatory responses (AOA1: 41% and AOA2: 75%) or single Ca2+ transients (AOA3: 50%) showed no significantly different blastocyst rates compared to ICSI control group (C2: 70%). In contrast, we observed a significant decrease in compaction (53% vs. 83%) and blastocyst rates (41% vs. 70%) in the absence of an initial Ca2+ trigger (AOA4) compared with the C2 group. Transcription profiles did not identify significant differences in gene expression levels between the ICSI control group (C2) and the four AOA groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Ferrer-Buitrago
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FAST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.,CREA. Medicina de la Reproducción S.L. Calle San Martín, 4 - 46003 (Valencia, Spain)
| | - L Tilleman
- Laboratory for Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - V Thys
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FAST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - A Hachem
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3QT, UK.,Department of Anatomy, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Al-Qadisiyah, Diwaniyah City, Iraq
| | - A Boel
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FAST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - F Van Nieuwerburgh
- Laboratory for Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - D Deforce
- Laboratory for Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - L Leybaert
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - P De Sutter
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FAST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - J Parrington
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Mansfield Road, Oxford OX1 3QT, UK
| | - B Heindryckx
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FAST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Mehregan A, Ardestani G, Akizawa H, Carvacho I, Fissore R. Deletion of TRPV3 and CaV3.2 T-type channels in mice undermines fertility and Ca2+ homeostasis in oocytes and eggs. J Cell Sci 2021; 134:jcs257956. [PMID: 34313315 PMCID: PMC8313860 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.257956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Ca2+ influx during oocyte maturation and after sperm entry is necessary to fill the internal Ca2+ stores and for complete egg activation. We knocked out the transient receptor potential vanilloid member 3 (TRPV3) and the T-type channel, CaV3.2, to determine their necessity for maintaining these functions in mammalian oocytes/eggs. Double-knockout (dKO) females were subfertile, their oocytes and eggs showed reduced internal Ca2+ stores, and, following sperm entry or Plcz (also known as Plcz1) cRNA injection, fewer dKO eggs displayed Ca2+ responses compared to wild-type eggs, which were also of lower frequency. These parameters were rescued and/or enhanced by removing extracellular Mg2+, suggesting that the residual Ca2+ influx could be mediated by the TRPM7 channel, consistent with the termination of divalent-cation oscillations in dKO eggs by a TRPM7 inhibitor. In total, we demonstrated that TRPV3 and CaV3.2 mediate the complete filling of the Ca2+ stores in mouse oocytes and eggs. We also showed that they are required for initiating and maintaining regularly spaced-out oscillations, suggesting that Ca2+ influx through PM ion channels dictates the periodicity and persistence of Ca2+ oscillations during mammalian fertilization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aujan Mehregan
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 661 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Goli Ardestani
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 661 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Hiroki Akizawa
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 661 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Ingrid Carvacho
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Universidad Católica del Maule, 3480112 Talca, Chile
| | - Rafael Fissore
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 661 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Maturation conditions, post-ovulatory age, medium pH, and ER stress affect [Ca 2+]i oscillation patterns in mouse oocytes. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:1373-1385. [PMID: 33914207 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02100-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Insufficiency of oocyte activation impairs the subsequent embryo development in assisted reproductive technology (ART). Intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) oscillations switch the oocytes to resume the second meiosis and initiate embryonic development. However, the [Ca2+]i oscillation patterns in oocytes are poorly characterized. In this study, we investigated the effects of various factors, such as the oocytes age, pH, cumulus cells, in vitro or in vivo maturation, and ER stress on [Ca2+]i oscillation patterns and pronuclear formation after parthenogenetic activation of mouse oocytes. Our results showed that the oocytes released to the oviduct at 17 h post-human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) displayed a significantly stronger [Ca2+]i oscillation, including higher frequency, shorter cycle, and higher peak, compared with oocytes collected at earlier or later time points. [Ca2+]i oscillations in acidic conditions (pH 6.4 and 6.6) were significantly weaker than those in neutral and mildly alkaline conditions (pH from 6.8 to 7.6). In vitro-matured oocytes showed reduced frequency and peak of [Ca2+]i oscillations compared with those matured in vivo. In vitro-matured oocytes from the cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) showed a significantly higher frequency, shorter cycle, and higher peak compared with the denuded oocytes (DOs). Finally, endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER stress) severely affected the parameters of [Ca2+]i oscillations, including elongated cycles and lower frequency. The pronuclear (PN) rate of oocytes after parthenogenetic activation was correlated with [Ca2+]i oscillation pattern, decreasing with oocyte aging, cumulus removal, acidic pH, and increasing ER stress. These results provide fundamental but critical information for the mechanism of how these factors affect oocyte activation.
Collapse
|
27
|
Gualtieri R, Kalthur G, Barbato V, Di Nardo M, Adiga SK, Talevi R. Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Oxidative Stress Caused by Cryopreservation in Reproductive Cells. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10030337. [PMID: 33668300 PMCID: PMC7996228 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10030337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria, fundamental organelles in cell metabolism, and ATP synthesis are responsible for generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), calcium homeostasis, and cell death. Mitochondria produce most ROS, and when levels exceed the antioxidant defenses, oxidative stress (OS) is generated. These changes may eventually impair the electron transport chain, resulting in decreased ATP synthesis, increased ROS production, altered mitochondrial membrane permeability, and disruption of calcium homeostasis. Mitochondria play a key role in the gamete competence to facilitate normal embryo development. However, iatrogenic factors in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) may affect their functional competence, leading to an abnormal reproductive outcome. Cryopreservation, a fundamental technology in ART, may compromise mitochondrial function leading to elevated intracellular OS that decreases sperm and oocytes' competence and the dynamics of fertilization and embryo development. This article aims to review the role played by mitochondria and ROS in sperm and oocyte function and the close, biunivocal relationships between mitochondrial damage and ROS generation during cryopreservation of gametes and gonadal tissues in different species. Based on current literature, we propose tentative hypothesis of mechanisms involved in cryopreservation-associated mitochondrial dysfunction in gametes, and discuss the role played by antioxidants and other agents to retain the competence of cryopreserved reproductive cells and tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Gualtieri
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Complesso Universitario di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (V.B.); (M.D.N.); (R.T.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Guruprasad Kalthur
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576 104, India; (G.K.); (S.K.A.)
| | - Vincenza Barbato
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Complesso Universitario di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (V.B.); (M.D.N.); (R.T.)
| | - Maddalena Di Nardo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Complesso Universitario di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (V.B.); (M.D.N.); (R.T.)
| | - Satish Kumar Adiga
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576 104, India; (G.K.); (S.K.A.)
- Centre for Fertility Preservation, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576 104, India
| | - Riccardo Talevi
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Complesso Universitario di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (V.B.); (M.D.N.); (R.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Eum JH, Park M, Yoon JA, Yoon SY. Voltage Dependent N Type Calcium Channel in Mouse Egg Fertilization. Dev Reprod 2021; 24:297-306. [PMID: 33537516 PMCID: PMC7837419 DOI: 10.12717/dr.2020.24.4.297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Repetitive changes in the intracellular calcium concentration
([Ca2+]i) triggers egg activation, including cortical
granule exocytosis, resumption of second meiosis, block to polyspermy, and
initiating embryonic development. [Ca2+]i oscillations that
continue for several hours, are required for the early events of egg activation
and possibly connected to further development to the blastocyst stage. The
sources of Ca2+ ion elevation during [Ca2+]i
oscillations are Ca2+ release from endoplasmic reticulum
through inositol 1,4,5 tri-phosphate receptor and Ca2+ ion
influx through Ca2+ channel on the plasma membrane.
Ca2+ channels have been characterized into
voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels (VDCCs), ligand-gated
Ca2+ channel, and leak-channel. VDCCs expressed on muscle
cell or neuron is specified into L, T, N, P, Q, and R type VDCs by their
activation threshold or their sensitivity to peptide toxins isolated from cone
snails and spiders. The present study was aimed to investigate the localization
pattern of N and P/Q type voltage-dependent calcium channels in mouse eggs and
the role in fertilization. [Ca2+]i oscillation was observed in
a Ca2+ contained medium with sperm factor or adenophostin A
injection but disappeared in Ca2+ free medium.
Ca2+ influx was decreased by Lat A. N-VDCC specific
inhibitor, ω-Conotoxin CVIIA induced abnormal [Ca2+]i
oscillation profiles in SrCl2 treatment. N or P/Q type VDC were
distributed on the plasma membrane in cortical cluster form, not in the
cytoplasm. Ca2+ influx is essential for
[Ca2+]i oscillation during mammalian fertilization. This
Ca2+ influx might be controlled through the N or P/Q type
VDCCs. Abnormal VDCCs expression of eggs could be tested in fertilization
failure or low fertilization eggs in subfertility women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin Hee Eum
- Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, Seoul 06125, Korea
| | - Miseon Park
- Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, Seoul 06125, Korea
| | - Jung Ah Yoon
- Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, Seoul 06125, Korea
| | - Sook Young Yoon
- Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, Seoul 06125, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Storey A, Elgmati K, Wang Y, Knaggs P, Swann K. The role of ATP in the differential ability of Sr2+ to trigger Ca2+ oscillations in mouse and human eggs. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:gaaa086. [PMID: 33543292 PMCID: PMC7846092 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
At fertilization in mice and humans, the activation of the egg is caused by a series of repetitive Ca2+ oscillations which are initiated by phospholipase-C(zeta)ζ that generates inositol-1,4,5-trisphophate (InsP3). Ca2+ oscillations and egg activation can be triggered in mature mouse eggs by incubation in Sr2+ containing medium, but this does not appear to be effective in human eggs. Here, we have investigated the reason for this apparent difference using mouse eggs, and human eggs that failed to fertilize after IVF or ICSI. Mouse eggs incubated in Ca2+-free, Sr2+-containing medium immediately underwent Ca2+ oscillations but human eggs consistently failed to undergo Ca2+ oscillations in the same Sr2+ medium. We tested the InsP3-receptor (IP3R) sensitivity directly by photo-release of caged InsP3 and found that mouse eggs were about 10 times more sensitive to InsP3 than human eggs. There were no major differences in the Ca2+ store content between mouse and human eggs. However, we found that the ATP concentration was consistently higher in mouse compared to human eggs. When ATP levels were lowered in mouse eggs by incubation in pyruvate-free medium, Sr2+ failed to cause Ca2+ oscillations. When pyruvate was added back to these eggs, the ATP levels increased and Ca2+ oscillations were induced. This suggests that ATP modulates the ability of Sr2+ to stimulate IP3R-induced Ca2+ release in eggs. We suggest that human eggs may be unresponsive to Sr2+ medium because they have a lower level of cytosolic ATP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Storey
- Wales Fertility Institute, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Yisu Wang
- School of Biosiences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Paul Knaggs
- Wales Fertility Institute, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Karl Swann
- School of Biosiences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Inositol-1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptor-1 and -3 and Ryanodine Receptor-3 May Increase Ooplasmic Ca<sup>2+</sup> During Quail Egg Activation. J Poult Sci 2021; 59:175-181. [PMID: 35528380 PMCID: PMC9039144 DOI: 10.2141/jpsa.0210041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously reported that egg activation in Japanese quail is driven by two distinct types of intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i): transient elevations in [Ca2+]i induced by phospholipase Czeta 1 (PLCZ1) and long-lasting spiral-like Ca2+ oscillations by citrate synthase (CS) and aconitate hydratase 2 (ACO2). Although the blockade of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (ITPRs) before microinjections of PLCZ1, CS, and ACO2 cRNAs only prevented transient increases in [Ca2+]i, a microinjection of an agonist of ryanodine receptors (RYRs) induced spiral-like Ca2+ oscillations, indicating the involvement of both ITPRs and RYRs in these events. In this study, we investigated the isoforms of ITPRs and RYRs responsible for the expression of the two types of [Ca2+]i increases. RT-PCR and western blot analyses revealed that ITPR1, ITPR3, and RYR3 were expressed in ovulated eggs. These proteins were degraded 3 h after the microinjection of PLCZ1, CS, and ACO2 cRNAs, which is the time at which egg activation was complete. However, degradation of ITPR1 and ITPR3, but not RYR3, was initiated 30 min after a single injection of PLCZ1 cRNA, corresponding to the time of the initial Ca2+ wave termination. In contrast, RYR3 degradation was observed 3 h after the microinjection of CS and ACO2 cRNAs. These results indicate that ITPRs and RYR3 differentially mediate in creases in [Ca2+]i during egg activation in Japanese quail, and that downregulation of ITPRs and RYR3-mediated events terminate the initial Ca2+ wave and spiral-like Ca2+ oscillations, respectively.
Collapse
|
31
|
Diagnosis and Treatment of Male Infertility-Related Fertilization Failure. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9123899. [PMID: 33271815 PMCID: PMC7761017 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9123899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility affects approximately 15% of reproductive-aged couples worldwide, of which up to 30% of the cases are caused by male factors alone. The origin of male infertility is mostly attributed to sperm abnormalities, of which many are caused by genetic defects. The development of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) has helped to circumvent most male infertility conditions. However, there is still a challenging group of infertile males whose sperm, although having normal sperm parameters, are unable to activate the oocyte, even after ICSI treatment. While ICSI generally allows fertilization rates of 70 to 80%, total fertilization failure (FF) still occurs in 1 to 3% of ICSI cycles. Phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ) has been demonstrated to be a critical sperm oocyte activating factor (SOAF) and the absence, reduced, or altered forms of PLCζ have been shown to cause male infertility-related FF. The purpose of this review is to (i) summarize the current knowledge on PLCζ as the critical sperm factor for successful fertilization, as well as to discuss the existence of alternative sperm-induced oocyte activation mechanisms, (ii) describe the diagnostic tests available to determine the cause of FF, and (iii) summarize the beneficial effect of assisted oocyte activation (AOA) to overcome FF.
Collapse
|
32
|
Chimote BN, Chimote NM. Dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS) concentrations stringently regulate fertilisation, embryo development and IVF outcomes: are we looking at a potentially compelling 'oocyte-related factor' in oocyte activation? J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 38:193-202. [PMID: 33161515 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-02001-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Bindu N Chimote
- IVF Embryology Laboratory, Vaunshdhara Fertility Centre, 9, Dr. Munje Marg, Congress Nagar, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India.
| | - Natachandra M Chimote
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Vaunshdhara Fertility Centre, 9, Dr. Munje Marg, Congress Nagar, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Pu L, Shahzad Q, Chen F, Yao S, Tang Y, Chen D, Yu K, Xie L, Xu H, Zhang M, Lu Y. Proteomic analysis demonstrates that parthenogenetically activated swamp buffalo embryos have dysregulated energy metabolism. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:1764-1773. [PMID: 33031588 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The comprehensive understanding of early embryo development is essential to optimize in vitro culture conditions. Protein expression landscape of parthenogenetically produced embryo remains unexplored. This study aimed to investigate the protein expression dynamics with a particular focus on energy metabolism throughout the early developmental stages of parthenogenetic buffalo embryos. For this purpose, we performed iTRAQ-based quantitative mass spectrometry and identified 280 proteins common in all stages. A total of 933 proteins were identified during the proteomics analysis. The data depicted that morula and blastocyst had distinct protein expression dynamics as compared to 2- to 16-cell-stage embryo. KEGG pathway analysis showed 23 proteins belonging to energy metabolism appeared in the data. Study of energy metabolism-related protein's expression pattern demonstrated that there was asynchrony in proteins related to glycolysis throughout the examined developmental stages. The expression pattern of pyruvate kinase mutase (PKM), an essential protein of glycolysis, indicated a slightly decreasing trend from 2-cell-stage embryo to blastocyst, and it was supported by expression of proteins involved in lactate production (LDHA and LDHB) suggesting the decreasing rate of aerobic glycolysis (Warburg Effect) at morula and blastocyst stage. The increased Warburg Effect is considered as the hallmark of proliferating cells or embryo at the blastocyst stage. Furthermore, the proteins involved in the citric acid cycle also showed down-regulation at the blastocyst stage, indicating a lesser role of oxidative phosphorylation at this stage. Therefore, it could be divulged from the study that there may be an irregular pattern of energy metabolism in early parthenogenetic embryos. Further studies are recommended to understand this phenomenon.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liping Pu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Qaisar Shahzad
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Fumen Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Shun Yao
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Yuyan Tang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Dongrong Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Kai Yu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Long Xie
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Huiyan Xu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Yangqing Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Czajkowska K, Walewska A, Ishikawa T, Szczepańska K, Ajduk A. Age-related alterations in fertilization-induced Ca2+ oscillations depend on the genetic background of mouse oocytes†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:986-999. [PMID: 32761132 PMCID: PMC7609943 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal aging affects various aspects of oocytes' physiology, including the functionality of their nuclear apparatus and mitochondria. In the present paper, we wished to investigate whether advanced reproductive age impacts oocytes' ability to generate proper Ca2+ oscillations in response to monospermic fertilization. We examined three different mouse strains/crosses: inbred C57BL/6Tar, outbred Tar:SWISS, and hybrid F1 (C57BL/6Tar × CBA/Tar). The females were either 2-4 months old (young) or 13-16 months old (aged). We observed that the Ca2+ oscillatory pattern is altered in a strain-dependent manner and changes were more profound in aged C57BL/6Tar and F1 than in aged Tar:SWISS oocytes. We also showed that maternal aging differently affects the size of Ca2+ store and expression of Itpr1, Atp2a2, Erp44, and Pdia3 genes involved in Ca2+ homeostasis in oocytes of C57BL/6Tar, Tar:SWISS, and F1 genetic background, which may explain partially the differences in the extent of age-dependent changes in the Ca2+ oscillations in those oocytes. Maternal aging did not have any visible impact on the distribution of the ER cisterns in oocytes of all three genetic types. Finally, we showed that maternal aging alters the timing of the first embryonic interphase onset and that this timing correlates in C57BL/6Tar and Tar:SWISS oocytes with the frequency of fertilization-induced Ca2+ oscillations. Our results indicate that extreme caution is required when conclusions about oocyte/embryo physiological response to aging are made and complement an increasing amount of evidence that mammalian (including human) susceptibility to aging differs greatly depending on the genetic background of the individual.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Czajkowska
- Department of Embryology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Walewska
- Department of Embryology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Takao Ishikawa
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Anna Ajduk
- Department of Embryology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Calcium Oscillatory Patterns and Oocyte Activation During Fertilization: a Possible Mechanism for Total Fertilization Failure (TFF) in Human In Vitro Fertilization? Reprod Sci 2020; 28:639-648. [PMID: 32813196 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00293-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This paper reviews the effects of calcium oscillatory patterns in oocytes and early embryo development. Total fertilization failure (TFF) is the failure of fertilization in all oocytes in a human IVF cycle, even after treatment with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). It is not well understood and currently attributed to oocyte activation deficiency. Calcium signaling is important in oocyte activation events. Calcium oscillations, in particular, have been reported in animal and human oocytes after fertilization. Abnormal calcium oscillations after fertilization may be the principal mechanism for TFF. While studies also establish strong associations between abnormal calcium oscillatory patterns and suboptimal developmental outcomes, critical basic parameters and their mechanism of action have yet to be identified. Empirical use of artificial oocyte activation (AOA) methods has shown initial success in helping patients overcome TFF. The AOA methods attempt to raise calcium levels after fertilization, but the efficacy and safety of these AOA methods are still in early stages of addressing TFF. Additional information about calcium oscillatory patterns and the effects of AOA in human ART may allow the prevention of TFF or allow treatment of TFF patients effectively and safely.
Collapse
|
36
|
Torra-Massana M, Cornet-Bartolomé D, Barragán M, Durban M, Ferrer-Vaquer A, Zambelli F, Rodriguez A, Oliva R, Vassena R. Novel phospholipase C zeta 1 mutations associated with fertilization failures after ICSI. Hum Reprod 2020; 34:1494-1504. [PMID: 31347677 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are phospholipase C zeta 1 (PLCZ1) mutations associated with fertilization failure (FF) after ICSI? SUMMARY ANSWER New mutations in the PLCZ1 sequence are associated with FFs after ICSI. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY FF occurs in 1-3% of ICSI cycles, mainly due to oocyte activation failure (OAF). The sperm PLCζ/PLCZ1 protein hydrolyzes phosphatidylinositol (4, 5)-bisphosphate in the oocyte, leading to intracellular calcium release and oocyte activation. To date, few PLCZ1 point mutations causing decreased protein levels or activity have been linked to FF. However, functional alterations of PLCζ/PLCZ1 in response to both described and novel mutations have not been investigated. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We performed a study including 37 patients presenting total or partial FF (fertilization rate (FR), ≤25%) after ICSI occurring between 2014 and 2018. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Patients were divided into two groups based on oocyte evaluation 19 h post ICSI: FF due to a defect in oocyte activation (OAF, n = 22) and FF due to other causes ('no-OAF', n = 15). Samples from 13 men with good fertilization (FR, >50%) were used as controls. PLCζ/PLCZ1 protein localization and levels in sperm were evaluated by immunofluorescence and western blot, respectively. Sanger sequencing on genomic DNA was used to identify PLCZ1 mutations in exonic regions. The effect of the mutations on protein functionality was predicted in silico using the MODICT algorithm. Functional assays were performed by cRNA injection of wild-type and mutated forms of PLCZ1 into human in vitro matured metaphase II oocytes, and fertilization outcomes (second polar body extrusion, pronucleus appearance) scored 19 h after injection. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE In the OAF group, 12 (54.6%) patients carried at least one mutation in the PLCZ1 coding sequence, one patient out of 15 (6.7%) in the no-OAF group (P < 0.05) and none of the 13 controls (P < 0.05). A total of six different mutations were identified. Five of them were single-nucleotide missense mutations: p.I120M, located at the end of the EF-hand domain; p.R197H, p.L224P and p.H233L, located at the X catalytic domain; and p.S500 L, located at the C2 domain. The sixth mutation, a frameshift variant (p.V326K fs*25), generates a truncated protein at the X-Y linker region. In silico analysis with MODICT predicted all the mutations except p.I120M to be potentially deleterious for PLCζ/PLCZ1 activity. After PLCZ1 cRNA injection, a significant decrease in the percentage of activated oocytes was observed for three mutations (p.R197H, p.H233L and p.V326K fs*25), indicating a deleterious effect on enzymatic activity. PLCZ1 protein localization and expression levels in sperm were similar across groups. FRs were restored (to >60%) in patients carrying PLCZ1 mutations (n = 10) after assisted oocyte activation (AOA), with seven patients achieving pregnancy and live birth. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Caution should be exerted when comparing the cRNA injection results with fertilization outcomes after ICSI, especially in patients presenting mutations in heterozygosis. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS PLCZ1 mutations were found in high frequency in patients presenting OAF. Functional analysis of three mutations in human oocytes confirms alteration of PLCζ/PLCZ1 activity and their likely involvement in impaired oocyte activation. Our results suggest that PLCZ1 gene sequencing could be useful as a tool for the diagnosis and counseling of couples presenting FF after ICSI due to OAF. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by intramural funding of Clínica EUGIN, by the Secretary for Universities and Research of the Ministry of Economy and Knowledge of the Government of Catalonia (GENCAT 2015 DI 049 to M. T.-M. and GENCAT 2015 DI 048 to D. C.-B.) and by the Torres Quevedo Program from the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness to A. F.-V. No competing interest declared.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marc Torra-Massana
- Clínica EUGIN, Barcelona, Spain.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Rafael Oliva
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Wang F, Li A, Meng TG, Wang LY, Wang LJ, Hou Y, Schatten H, Sun QY, Ou XH. Regulation of [Ca 2+] i oscillations and mitochondrial activity by various calcium transporters in mouse oocytes. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2020; 18:87. [PMID: 32799904 PMCID: PMC7429721 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-020-00643-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte activation inefficiency is one of the reasons for female infertility and Ca2+ functions play a critical role in the regulation of oocyte activation. We used various inhibitors of Ca2+ channels located on the membrane, including sarcoplasmic/ endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ATPases (SERCAs, the main Ca2+ pumps which decrease the intracellular Ca2+ level by refilling Ca2+ into the sarcoplasmic reticulum), transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channel subfamily member 7 (TRPM7, a Ca2+/Mg2+-permeable non-selective cation channel), T-type Ca2+ channels and calcium channel Orai1, to investigate their roles in [Ca2+]i oscillation patterns and mitochondrial membrane potential during oocyte activation by real-time recording. Our results showed that SERCAs, TRPM7 and T-type Ca2+ channels were important for initiation and maintenance of [Ca2+]i oscillations, which was required for mitochondrial membrane potential elevation during oocyte activation, as well as oocyte cytoskeleton stability and subsequent embryo development. Increasing the knowledge of calcium transport may provide a theoretical basis for improving oocyte activation in human assisted reproduction clinics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Feng Wang
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, 510317 China
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309China State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Ang Li
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309China State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Tie-Gang Meng
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, 510317 China
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309China State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Le-Yun Wang
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309China State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Li-Juan Wang
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309China State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Yi Hou
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309China State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Heide Schatten
- grid.134936.a0000 0001 2162 3504Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211 USA
| | - Qing-Yuan Sun
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, 510317 China
- grid.9227.e0000000119573309China State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Xiang-Hong Ou
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, 510317 China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Wang F, Li A, Li QN, Fan LH, Wang ZB, Meng TG, Hou Y, Schatten H, Sun QY, Ou XH. Effects of mitochondria-associated Ca 2+ transporters suppression on oocyte activation. Cell Biochem Funct 2020; 39:248-257. [PMID: 32643225 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Oocyte activation deficiency leads to female infertility. [Ca2+ ]i oscillations are required for mitochondrial energy supplement transition from the resting to the excited state, but the underlying mechanisms are still very little known. Three mitochondrial Ca2+ channels, Mitochondria Calcium Uniporter (MCU), Na+ /Ca2+ Exchanger (NCLX) and Voltage-dependent Ca2+ Channel (VDAC), were deactivated by inhibitors RU360, CGP37157 and Erastin, respectively. Both Erastin and CGP37157 inhibited mitochondrial activity significantly while attenuating [Ca2+ ]i and [Ca2+ ]m oscillations, which caused developmental block of pronuclear formation. Thus, NCLX and VDAC are two mitochondria-associated Ca2+ transporter proteins regulating oocyte activation, which may be used as potential targets to treat female infertility. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY: NCLX and VDAC are two mitochondria-associated Ca2+ transporter proteins regulating oocyte activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Feng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qian-Nan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li-Hua Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhen-Bo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Tie-Gang Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Heide Schatten
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Qing-Yuan Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiang-Hong Ou
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Stein P, Savy V, Williams AM, Williams CJ. Modulators of calcium signalling at fertilization. Open Biol 2020; 10:200118. [PMID: 32673518 PMCID: PMC7574550 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.200118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcium (Ca2+) signals initiate egg activation across the animal kingdom and in at least some plants. These signals are crucial for the success of development and, in the case of mammals, health of the offspring. The mechanisms associated with fertilization that trigger these signals and the molecules that regulate their characteristic patterns vary widely. With few exceptions, a major contributor to fertilization-induced elevation in cytoplasmic Ca2+ is release from endoplasmic reticulum stores through the IP3 receptor. In some cases, Ca2+ influx from the extracellular space and/or release from alternative intracellular stores contribute to the rise in cytoplasmic Ca2+. Following the Ca2+ rise, the reuptake of Ca2+ into intracellular stores or efflux of Ca2+ out of the egg drive the return of cytoplasmic Ca2+ back to baseline levels. The molecular mediators of these Ca2+ fluxes in different organisms include Ca2+ release channels, uptake channels, exchangers and pumps. The functions of these mediators are regulated by their particular activating mechanisms but also by alterations in their expression and spatial organization. We discuss here the molecular basis for modulation of Ca2+ signalling at fertilization, highlighting differences across several animal phyla, and we mention key areas where questions remain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paula Stein
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Virginia Savy
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Audrey M. Williams
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Carmen J. Williams
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Kashir J, Mistry BV, BuSaleh L, Abu-Dawas R, Nomikos M, Ajlan A, Abu-Dawud R, AlYacoub N, AlHassan S, Lai FA, Assiri AM, Coskun S. Phospholipase C zeta profiles are indicative of optimal sperm parameters and fertilisation success in patients undergoing fertility treatment. Andrology 2020; 8:1143-1159. [PMID: 32298520 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2020] [Revised: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oocyte activation is driven by intracellular calcium (Ca2+ ) oscillations induced by sperm-specific PLCζ, abrogation of which causes oocyte activation deficiency in humans. Clinical PLCζ investigations have been limited to severe male infertility conditions, while PLCζ levels and localisation patterns have yet to be associated with general sperm viability. MATERIALS AND METHODS PLCζ profiles were examined within a general population of males attending a fertility clinic (65 patients; aged 29-53), examining PLCζ throughout various fractions of sperm viability. Male recruitment criteria required a minimum sperm count of 5 × 106 spermatozoa/mL, while all female patients included in this study yielded at least five oocytes for treatment. Sperm count, motility and semen volume were recorded according to standard WHO reference guidelines and correlated with PLCζ profiles examined via immunoblotting and immunofluorescence. Appropriate fertility treatments were performed following routine clinical standard operating protocols, and fertilisation success determined by successful observation of second polar body extrusion. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Four distinct PLCζ patterns were observed at the equatorial, acrosomal + equatorial regions of the sperm head, alongside a dispersed pattern, and a population of spermatozoa without any PLCζ. Acrosomal + equatorial PLCζ correlated most to sperm health, while dispersed PLCζ correlated to decreased sperm viability. Total levels of PLCζ exhibited significant correlations with sperm parameters. PLCζ variance corresponded to reduced sperm health, potentially underlying cases of male sub-fertility and increasing male age. Finally, significantly higher levels of PLCζ were exhibited by cases of fertilisation success, alongside higher proportions of Ac + Eq, and lower levels of dispersed PLCζ. CONCLUSIONS PLCζ potentially represents a biomarker of sperm health, and fertilisation capacity in general cases of patients seeking fertility treatment, and not just cases of repeated fertilisation. Further focused investigations are required with larger cohorts to examine the full clinical potential of PLCζ.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junaid Kashir
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.,Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Bhavesh V Mistry
- Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Lujain BuSaleh
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Reema Abu-Dawas
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Michail Nomikos
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ahmed Ajlan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Raed Abu-Dawud
- Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Nadya AlYacoub
- Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Saad AlHassan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - F Anthony Lai
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.,Biomedical Research Centre, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Abdullah M Assiri
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.,Biomedical Research Centre, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.,Institute for Research and Medical Consultations, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Serdar Coskun
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Abstract
The process of embryonic development is crucial and radically influences preimplantation embryo competence. It involves oocyte maturation, fertilization, cell division and blastulation and is characterized by different key phases that have major influences on embryo quality. Each stage of the process of preimplantation embryonic development is led by important signalling pathways that include very many regulatory molecules, such as primary and secondary messengers. Many studies, both in vivo and in vitro, have shown the importance of the contribution of reactive oxygen species (ROS) as important second messengers in embryo development. ROS may originate from embryo metabolism and/or oocyte/embryo surroundings, and their effect on embryonic development is highly variable, depending on the needs of the embryo at each stage of development and on their environment (in vivo or under in vitro culture conditions). Other studies have also shown the deleterious effects of ROS in embryo development, when cellular tissue production overwhelms antioxidant production, leading to oxidative stress. This stress is known to be the cause of many cellular alterations, such as protein, lipid, and DNA damage. Considering that the same ROS level can have a deleterious effect on the fertilizing oocyte or embryo at certain stages, and a positive effect at another stage of the development process, further studies need to be carried out to determine the rate of ROS that benefits the embryo and from what rate it starts to be harmful, this measured at each key phase of embryonic development.
Collapse
|
42
|
Santella L, Limatola N, Chun JT. Cellular and molecular aspects of oocyte maturation and fertilization: a perspective from the actin cytoskeleton. ZOOLOGICAL LETTERS 2020; 6:5. [PMID: 32313685 PMCID: PMC7158055 DOI: 10.1186/s40851-020-00157-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Much of the scientific knowledge on oocyte maturation, fertilization, and embryonic development has come from the experiments using gametes of marine organisms that reproduce by external fertilization. In particular, echinoderm eggs have enabled the study of structural and biochemical changes related to meiotic maturation and fertilization owing to the abundant availability of large and transparent oocytes and eggs. Thus, in vitro studies of oocyte maturation and sperm-induced egg activation in starfish are carried out under experimental conditions that resemble those occurring in nature. During the maturation process, immature oocytes of starfish are released from the prophase of the first meiotic division, and acquire the competence to be fertilized through a highly programmed sequence of morphological and physiological changes at the oocyte surface. In addition, the changes in the cortical and nuclear regions are essential for normal and monospermic fertilization. This review summarizes the current state of research on the cortical actin cytoskeleton in mediating structural and physiological changes during oocyte maturation and sperm and egg activation in starfish and sea urchin. The common denominator in these studies with echinoderms is that exquisite rearrangements of the egg cortical actin filaments play pivotal roles in gamete interactions, Ca2+ signaling, exocytosis of cortical granules, and control of monospermic fertilization. In this review, we also compare findings from studies using invertebrate eggs with what is known about the contributions made by the actin cytoskeleton in mammalian eggs. Since the cortical actin cytoskeleton affects microvillar morphology, movement, and positioning of organelles and vesicles, and the topography of the egg surface, these changes have impacts on the fertilization process, as has been suggested by recent morphological studies on starfish oocytes and eggs using scanning electron microscopy. Drawing the parallelism between vitelline layer of echinoderm eggs and the zona pellucida of mammalian eggs, we also discuss the importance of the egg surface in mediating monospermic fertilization. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luigia Santella
- Department of Research Infrastructures for Marine Biological Resources, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, Napoli 80121, Italy
| | - Nunzia Limatola
- Department of Research Infrastructures for Marine Biological Resources, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, Napoli 80121, Italy
| | - Jong Tai Chun
- Department of Biology and Evolution of Marine Organisms, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, Napoli 80121, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Kashir J. Increasing associations between defects in phospholipase C zeta and conditions of male infertility: not just ICSI failure? J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1273-1293. [PMID: 32285298 PMCID: PMC7311621 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01748-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Oocyte activation is a fundamental event at mammalian fertilization. In mammals, this process is initiated by a series of characteristic calcium (Ca2+) oscillations, induced by a sperm-specific phospholipase C (PLC) termed PLCzeta (PLCζ). Dysfunction/reduction/deletion of PLCζ is associated with forms of male infertility where the sperm is unable to initiate Ca2+ oscillations and oocyte activation, specifically in cases of fertilization failure. This review article aims to systematically summarize recent advancements and controversies in the field to update expanding clinical associations between PLCζ and various male factor conditions. This article also discusses how such associations may potentially underlie defective embryogenesis and recurrent implantation failure following fertility treatments, alongside potential diagnostic and therapeutic PLCζ approaches, aiming to direct future research efforts to utilize such knowledge clinically. METHODS An extensive literature search was performed using literature databases (PubMed/MEDLINE/Web of Knowledge) focusing on phospholipase C zeta (PLCzeta; PLCζ), oocyte activation, and calcium oscillations, as well as specific male factor conditions. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Defective PLCζ or PLCζ-induced Ca2+ release can be linked to multiple forms of male infertility including abnormal sperm parameters and morphology, sperm DNA fragmentation and oxidation, and abnormal embryogenesis/pregnancies. Such sperm exhibit absent/reduced levels, and abnormal localization patterns of PLCζ within the sperm head. CONCLUSIONS Defective PLCζ and abnormal patterns of Ca2+ release are increasingly suspected a significant causative factor underlying abnormalities or insufficiencies in Ca2+ oscillation-driven early embryogenic events. Such cases could potentially strongly benefit from relevant therapeutic and diagnostic applications of PLCζ, or even alternative mechanisms, following further focused research efforts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junaid Kashir
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. .,School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK. .,Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Evans JP. Preventing polyspermy in mammalian eggs-Contributions of the membrane block and other mechanisms. Mol Reprod Dev 2020; 87:341-349. [PMID: 32219915 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The egg's blocks to polyspermy (fertilization of an egg by more than one sperm) were originally identified in marine and aquatic species with external fertilization, but polyspermy matters in mammalian reproduction too. Embryonic triploidy is a noteworthy event associated with pregnancy complications and loss. Polyspermy is a major cause of triploidy with up to 80% of triploid conceptuses being the result of dispermic fertilization. The mammalian female reproductive tract regulates the number of sperm that reach the site of fertilization, but mammals also utilize egg-based blocks to polyspermy. The egg-based blocks occur on the mammalian egg coat (the zona pellucida) and the egg plasma membrane, with apparent variation between different mammalian species regarding the extent to which one or both are used. The zona pellucida block to polyspermy has some similarities to the slow block in water-dwelling species, but the mammalian membrane block to polyspermy differs substantially from the fast electrical block that has been characterized in marine and aquatic species. This review discusses what is known about the incidence of polyspermy in mammals and about the mammalian membrane block to polyspermy, as well as notes some lesser-characterized potential mechanisms contributing to polyspermy prevention in mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janice P Evans
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Saleh A, Kashir J, Thanassoulas A, Safieh-Garabedian B, Lai FA, Nomikos M. Essential Role of Sperm-Specific PLC-Zeta in Egg Activation and Male Factor Infertility: An Update. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:28. [PMID: 32064262 PMCID: PMC7000359 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm-specific phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ) is widely considered to be the physiological stimulus responsible for generating calcium (Ca2+) oscillations that induce egg activation and early embryonic development during mammalian fertilization. In the mammalian testis, PLCζ expression is detected at spermiogenesis following elongated spermatid differentiation. Sperm-delivered PLCζ induces Ca2+ release via the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3) signaling pathway. PLCζ is the smallest known mammalian PLC isoform identified to date, with the simplest domain organization. However, the distinctive biochemical properties of PLCζ compared with other PLC isoforms contribute to its unique potency in stimulating cytosolic Ca2+ oscillations within mammalian eggs. Moreover, studies describing PLCζ “knockout” mouse phenotypes confirm the supreme importance of PLCζ at egg activation and monospermic fertilization in mice. Importantly, a number of clinical reports have highlighted the crucial importance of PLCζ in human fertilization by associating PLCζ deficiencies with certain forms of male factor infertility. Herein, we give an update on recent advances that have refined our understanding of how sperm PLCζ triggers Ca2 + oscillations and egg activation in mammals, while also discussing the nature of a potential “alternative” sperm factor. We summarise PLCζ localization in mammalian sperm, and the direct links observed between defective PLCζ protein in sperm and documented cases of male infertility. Finally, we postulate how this sperm protein can be used as a potential diagnostic marker, and also as a powerful therapeutic agent for treatment of certain types of male infertility due to egg activation failure or even in more general cases of male subfertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alaaeldin Saleh
- Member of QU Health, College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Junaid Kashir
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - F Anthony Lai
- Member of QU Health, College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.,Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Michail Nomikos
- Member of QU Health, College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
McDonough CE, Bernhardt ML, Williams CJ. Mouse strain-dependent egg factors regulate calcium signals at fertilization. Mol Reprod Dev 2020; 87:284-292. [PMID: 31944466 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Calcium (Ca2+ ) signals triggered at fertilization initiate resumption of the cell cycle and initial steps of embryonic development. In mammals, the sperm factor phospholipase Cζ triggers the release of Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), initiating an oscillatory pattern of Ca2+ transients that is modulated by egg factors including Ca2+ influx channels, Ca2+ transporters, and phosphoinositide-regulating enzymes. Here we compared characteristics of Ca2+ oscillations following in vitro fertilization (IVF) and ER Ca2+ stores among nine common laboratory mouse strains: CF1, C57BL6, SJL, CD1, DBA, FVB, 129X1, BALBc, 129S1, and the F1 hybrid B6129SF1. Sperm from B6SJLF1/J males was used for all IVF experiments. There were significant differences among the strains with respect to duration and maximum amplitude of the first Ca2+ transient, frequency of oscillations, and ER Ca2+ stores. With male strain held constant, the differences in Ca2+ oscillation patterns observed result from variation in egg factors across different mouse strains. Our results support the importance of egg-intrinsic properties in determining Ca2+ oscillation patterns and have important implications for the interpretation and comparison of studies on Ca2+ dynamics at fertilization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin E McDonough
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Miranda L Bernhardt
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Carmen J Williams
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Hu Q, Wolfner MF. The Drosophila Trpm channel mediates calcium influx during egg activation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:18994-19000. [PMID: 31427540 PMCID: PMC6754564 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1906967116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Egg activation is the process in which mature oocytes are released from developmental arrest and gain competency for embryonic development. In Drosophila and other arthropods, eggs are activated by mechanical pressure in the female reproductive tract, whereas in most other species, eggs are activated by fertilization. Despite the difference in the trigger, Drosophila shares many conserved features with higher vertebrates in egg activation, including a rise of intracellular calcium in response to the trigger. In Drosophila, this calcium rise is initiated by entry of extracellular calcium due to opening of mechanosensitive ion channels and initiates a wave that passes across the egg prior to initiation of downstream activation events. Here, we combined inhibitor tests, germ-line-specific RNAi knockdown, and germ-line-specific CRISPR/Cas9 knockout to identify the Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) channel subfamily M (Trpm) as a critical channel that mediates the calcium influx and initiates the calcium wave during Drosophila egg activation. We observed a reduction in the proportion of eggs that hatched from trpm germ-line knockout mutant females, although eggs were able to complete some egg activation events including cell cycle resumption. Since a mouse ortholog of Trpm was recently reported also to be involved in calcium influx during egg activation and in further embryonic development, our results suggest that calcium uptake from the environment via TRPM channels is a deeply conserved aspect of egg activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qinan Hu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - Mariana F Wolfner
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Bhakta HH, Refai FH, Avella MA. The molecular mechanisms mediating mammalian fertilization. Development 2019; 146:146/15/dev176966. [PMID: 31375552 DOI: 10.1242/dev.176966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Fertilization is a key biological process in which the egg and sperm must recognize one another and fuse to form a zygote. Although the process is a continuum, mammalian fertilization has been studied as a sequence of steps: sperm bind and penetrate through the zona pellucida of the egg, adhere to the egg plasma membrane and finally fuse with the egg. Following fusion, effective blocks to polyspermy ensure monospermic fertilization. Here, we review how recent advances obtained using genetically modified mouse lines bring new insights into the molecular mechanisms regulating mammalian fertilization. We discuss models for these processes and we include studies showing that these mechanisms may be conserved across different mammalian species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanisha H Bhakta
- Department of Biological Science, College of Engineering and Natural Sciences, The University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK 74104, USA
| | - Fares H Refai
- Department of Biological Science, College of Engineering and Natural Sciences, The University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK 74104, USA
| | - Matteo A Avella
- Department of Biological Science, College of Engineering and Natural Sciences, The University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK 74104, USA
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Ardestani G, West MC, Maresca TJ, Fissore RA, Stratton MM. FRET-based sensor for CaMKII activity (FRESCA): A useful tool for assessing CaMKII activity in response to Ca 2+ oscillations in live cells. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:11876-11891. [PMID: 31201271 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.009235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Ca2+ oscillations and consequent Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) activation are required for embryogenesis, as well as neuronal, immunological, and cardiac signaling. Fertilization directly results in Ca2+ oscillations, but the resultant pattern of CaMKII activity remains largely unclear. To address this gap, we first employed the one existing biosensor for CaMKII activation. This sensor, Camui, comprises CaMKIIα and therefore solely reports on the activation of this CaMKII variant. Additionally, to detect the activity of all endogenous CaMKII variants simultaneously, we constructed a substrate-based sensor for CaMKII activity, FRESCA (FRET-based sensor for CaMKII activity). To examine the differential responses of the Camui and FRESCA sensors, we used several approaches to stimulate Ca2+ release in mouse eggs, including addition of phospholipase Cζ cRNA, which mimics natural fertilization. We found that the Camui response is delayed or terminates earlier than the FRESCA response. FRESCA enables assessment of endogenous CaMKII activity in real-time by both fertilization and artificial reagents, such as Sr2+, which also leads to CaMKII activation. FRESCA's broad utility will be important for optimizing artificial CaMKII activation for clinical use to manage infertility. Moreover, FRESCA provides a new view on CaMKII activity, and its application in additional biological systems may reveal new signaling paradigms in eggs, as well as in neurons, cardiomyocytes, immune cells, and other CaMKII-expressing cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Goli Ardestani
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003.,Veterinary and Animal Sciences Graduate Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003
| | - Megan C West
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003
| | - Thomas J Maresca
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003
| | - Rafael A Fissore
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003
| | - Margaret M Stratton
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Fawzy M, Emad M, Mahran A, Sabry M, Fetih AN, Abdelghafar H, Rasheed S. Artificial oocyte activation with SrCl2 or calcimycin after ICSI improves clinical and embryological outcomes compared with ICSI alone: results of a randomized clinical trial. Hum Reprod 2019; 33:1636-1644. [PMID: 30099496 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are pregnancy and birth rates affected by artificial oocyte activation (AOA) with SrCl2 or calcimycin after ICSI for couples with male-factor infertility linked to abnormal sperm morphology or for couples with previous ICSI cycles of unexplained low fertilization or inadequate fertilization associated with impaired oocyte morphology? SUMMARY ANSWER AOA with either SrCl2 or calcimycin can improve the rates of clinical pregnancy, ongoing pregnancy and live birth compared with ICSI alone, and the two agents have diverse effects for different subgroups of patients. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY ICSI is a successful treatment for infertility, but not in all individuals. AOA has potential to overcome inadequate fertilization in ICSI. Calcimycin and SrCl2 are candidate agents for AOA, but their effectiveness remains to be compared. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This study was a randomized, open-label, three-arm, parallel-group, double-centre, superiority trial conducted between April 2015 and January 2016. The study evaluated the effects of AOA with calcimycin or SrCl2 for clinical pregnancy rates after ICSI and included 343 couples divided into three groups. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Couples were included if they had two previous ICSI cycles of no or low fertilization (0-30%) with unknown causes or impaired oocyte morphology. Male-factor infertility cycles (frozen-thawed sperm, surgically retrieved sperm or ejaculates contained <10 millions spermatozoa/ml) undergoing their first ICSI attempt were also included if they had 100% abnormal sperm morphology (including globozoospermia and tapered-head). Couples were randomized to undergo ICSI with SrCl2 AOA, ICSI with calcimycin AOA or ICSI alone, with clinical pregnancy as the primary endpoint. Effect sizes were summarized as absolute rate differences (ARDs) and odds ratios (ORs), with precision evaluated by 95% CIs. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Both SrCl2 and calcimycin AOA improved clinical pregnancy rates compared to ICSI alone (49, 42 and 27%; ARD 22, 95% CI: 9-33; P = 0.0007 and ARD 16, 95% CI: 3-27; P = 0.014). SrCl2 and calcimycin AOA were also superior to ICSI alone on the rates of ongoing pregnancy (42, 36 and 23%; P = 0.0019 and P = 0.023) and live birth (40, 33 and 18%; P = 0.0002 and P = 0.012). Among couples with previous ICSI cycles of low fertilization, AOA with SrCl2 (but not with calcimycin) was superior to ICSI alone for rates of clinical pregnancy (ARD 35 percentage points (pp), P = 0.0007), ongoing pregnancy (ARD 27 pp, P = 0.009) and live birth (ARD 37 pp, P = 0.002). Among couples affected by male-factor infertility, AOA with calcimycin (but not with SrCl2) was superior to ICSI alone for rates of clinical pregnancy (ARD 22 pp, P = 0.006), ongoing pregnancy (ARD 19 pp, P = 0.013) and live birth (ARD 17 pp, P = 0.02). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study was an open-label trial, and this design might have introduced bias, although randomization methods were used. The study did not include a longitudinal follow-up, so further evidence is required to demonstrate the safety of AOA. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The decision to use SrCl2 or calcimycin for AOA after ICSI may depend on whether the activation failure originates in the oocyte or the sperm. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study received no funding and the authors have no conflicts of interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT02424214. TRIAL REGISTRATION DATE 22 April 2015. DATE OF FIRST PATIENT’S ENROLMENT 27 April 2015.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mai Emad
- IbnSina IVF Centre, IbnSina Hospital, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Ali Mahran
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, AG, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Sabry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Ahmed N Fetih
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, AG, Egypt
| | - Hazem Abdelghafar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Salah Rasheed
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|