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Harris AL, Dinopoulou V, Loutradis D, Drakakis P, Kiessling AA. Microarray evidence that 8-cell human embryos express some hormone family members including oxytocin. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:323-332. [PMID: 38133877 PMCID: PMC10894797 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-03002-8] [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: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study is to discover hormone pathways active in early cleaving human embryos. METHODS A list of 152 hormones and receptors were compiled to query the microarray database of mRNAs in 8-cell human embryos, two lines of human embryonic stem cells plus human fibroblasts before and after induced pluripotency. RESULTS Over half of the 152 hormones and receptors were silent on the arrays of all cell types, and more were detected at high or moderate levels on the 8-cell arrays than on the pluripotent cell or fibroblast arrays. Eight hormone family genes were uniquely detected at least 22-fold higher on the 8-cell arrays than the stem cell arrays: AVPI1, CCK, CORT, FSTL4, GIP, GPHA2, OXT, and PPY suggesting novel roles for these proteins in early development. Oxytocin was detected by pilot immunoassay in culture media collected from Day 3 embryos. Robust detection of CRHR1 and EPOR suggests the 8-cell embryo may be responsive to maternal CRH and EPO. The over-expression of POMC and GHITM suggests POMP peptide products may have undiscovered roles in early development and GHITM may contribute to mitochondrial remodeling. Under-detected on the 8-cell arrays at least tenfold were two key enzymes in steroid biosynthesis, DHCR24 and FDPS. CONCLUSIONS The 8-cell human embryo may be secreting oxytocin, which could stimulate its own progress down the fallopian tube as well as play a role in early neural precursor development. The 8-cell embryo does not synthesize reproductive steroid hormones. As previously reported for growth factor families, the early embryo over-expresses more hormones than hormone receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Lee Harris
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University, Fairborn, OH, USA
| | - Vasiliki Dinopoulou
- 1St Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, Athens University Medical School, Lourou 4-2, 115 28, Athina, Greece
| | - Dimitris Loutradis
- 1St Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, Athens University Medical School, Lourou 4-2, 115 28, Athina, Greece
| | - Peter Drakakis
- 1St Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Alexandra Hospital, Athens University Medical School, Lourou 4-2, 115 28, Athina, Greece
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Heo G, Lee SH, Kim JD, Lee GH, Sim JM, Zhou D, Guo J, Cui XS. GRP78 acts as a cAMP/PKA signaling modulator through the MC4R pathway in porcine embryonic development. FASEB J 2023; 37:e23274. [PMID: 37917004 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202301356r] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 09/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) binds to and stabilizes melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R), which activates protein kinase A (PKA) by regulating G proteins. GRP78 is primarily used as a marker for endoplasmic reticulum stress; however, its other functions have not been well studied. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the function of GRP78 during porcine embryonic development. The developmental quality of porcine embryos, expression of cell cycle proteins, and function of mitochondria were evaluated by inhibiting the function of GRP78. Porcine oocytes were activated to undergo parthenogenesis, and blastocysts were obtained after 7 days of in vitro culture. GRP78 function was inhibited by adding 20 μM HA15 to the in vitro culture medium. The inhibition in GRP78 function led to a decrease in G proteins release, which subsequently downregulated the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)/PKA pathway. Ultimately, inhibition of GRP78 function induced the inhibition of CDK1 and cyclin B expression and disruption of the cell cycle. In addition, inhibition of GRP78 function regulated DRP1 and SIRT1 expression, resulting in mitochondrial dysfunction. This study provides new insights into the role of GRP78 in porcine embryonic development, particularly its involvement in the regulation of the MC4R pathway and downstream cAMP/PKA signaling. The results suggest that the inhibition of GRP78 function in porcine embryos by HA15 treatment may have negative effects on embryo quality and development. This study also demonstrated that GRP78 plays a crucial role in the functioning of MC4R, which releases the G protein during porcine embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geun Heo
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Song-Hee Lee
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Dam Kim
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyu-Hyun Lee
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Min Sim
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Dongjie Zhou
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Jing Guo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiang-Shun Cui
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
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3
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Mu J, Zhou Z, Sang Q, Wang L. The physiological and pathological mechanisms of early embryonic development. FUNDAMENTAL RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fmre.2022.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022] Open
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4
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Haplotype-aware inference of human chromosome abnormalities. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2109307118. [PMID: 34772814 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2109307118] [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] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Extra or missing chromosomes-a phenomenon termed aneuploidy-frequently arise during human meiosis and embryonic mitosis and are the leading cause of pregnancy loss, including in the context of in vitro fertilization (IVF). While meiotic aneuploidies affect all cells and are deleterious, mitotic errors generate mosaicism, which may be compatible with healthy live birth. Large-scale abnormalities such as triploidy and haploidy also contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes, but remain hidden from standard sequencing-based approaches to preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A). The ability to reliably distinguish meiotic and mitotic aneuploidies, as well as abnormalities in genome-wide ploidy, may thus prove valuable for enhancing IVF outcomes. Here, we describe a statistical method for distinguishing these forms of aneuploidy based on analysis of low-coverage whole-genome sequencing data, which is the current standard in the field. Our approach overcomes the sparse nature of the data by leveraging allele frequencies and linkage disequilibrium (LD) measured in a population reference panel. The method, which we term LD-informed PGT-A (LD-PGTA), retains high accuracy down to coverage as low as 0.05 × and at higher coverage can also distinguish between meiosis I and meiosis II errors based on signatures spanning the centromeres. LD-PGTA provides fundamental insight into the origins of human chromosome abnormalities, as well as a practical tool with the potential to improve genetic testing during IVF.
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Next-generation sequencing analysis of each blastomere in good-quality embryos: insights into the origins and mechanisms of embryonic aneuploidy in cleavage-stage embryos. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1711-1718. [PMID: 32445153 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01803-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the whole-chromosome status, origins, and mechanisms of chromosomal abnormalities in good-quality cleavage embryos using multiple annealing and looping-based amplification cycle (MALBAC) sequencing. METHODS The embryos studied came from7 patients (maternal aged 26-35) who had healthy birth from the same IVF cycles. These 21 frozen day 3 good-quality embryos were thawed and disaggregated into individual blastomere. Each blastomere was collected and analyzed by MALBAC sequencing. RESULTS Conclusive results were obtained from a high percentage of blastomeres (95.3%). A total of 46.6% of blastomeres were diploid, 53.4% were abnormal, and 28.0% had complex aneuploidy. Out of 21 embryos, 3 (14.3%) were normal and 18 (85.7%) were mosaics, showing the occurrence of mitotic errors; aneuploidy was confirmed in all cells of 4 of the 18 embryos, which showed the coexistence of meiotic errors. Conclusive results were obtained from all blastomeres of 15 embryos (71.4%, 15/21), which enabled us to reconstruct the cell lineage on the basis of the chromosomal content of the blastomeres in each division. There were 9 mitotic errors (8.7%, 9/103): nondisjunction accounted for 88.9% (8/9), and endoreplication accounted for 11.1% (1/9). CONCLUSIONS In good-quality embryos, there was a high rate and diverse array of chromosomal abnormalities. Morphological evaluation does not appear to assist in the reduction in meiotic errors from parental origins. Mitotic errors were common, and nondisjunction was found to be the main mechanism causing malsegregation during the cleavage divisions.
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Middelkamp S, van Tol HTA, Spierings DCJ, Boymans S, Guryev V, Roelen BAJ, Lansdorp PM, Cuppen E, Kuijk EW. Sperm DNA damage causes genomic instability in early embryonic development. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:eaaz7602. [PMID: 32494621 PMCID: PMC7159919 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aaz7602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Genomic instability is common in human embryos, but the underlying causes are largely unknown. Here, we examined the consequences of sperm DNA damage on the embryonic genome by single-cell whole-genome sequencing of individual blastomeres from bovine embryos produced with sperm damaged by γ-radiation. Sperm DNA damage primarily leads to fragmentation of the paternal chromosomes followed by random distribution of the chromosomal fragments over the two sister cells in the first cell division. An unexpected secondary effect of sperm DNA damage is the induction of direct unequal cleavages, which include the poorly understood heterogoneic cell divisions. As a result, chaotic mosaicism is common in embryos derived from fertilizations with damaged sperm. The mosaic aneuploidies, uniparental disomies, and de novo structural variation induced by sperm DNA damage may compromise fertility and lead to rare congenital disorders when embryos escape developmental arrest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sjors Middelkamp
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Oncode Institute, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 100, Utrecht 3584 CG, Netherlands
| | - Helena T. A. van Tol
- Department of Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 104, Utrecht 3584 CM, Netherlands
| | - Diana C. J. Spierings
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen 9713 AV, Netherlands
| | - Sander Boymans
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Oncode Institute, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 100, Utrecht 3584 CG, Netherlands
| | - Victor Guryev
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen 9713 AV, Netherlands
| | - Bernard A. J. Roelen
- Department of Farm Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 104, Utrecht 3584 CM, Netherlands
| | - Peter M. Lansdorp
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen 9713 AV, Netherlands
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
- Terry Fox Laboratory, BC Cancer Agency, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1L3, Canada
| | - Edwin Cuppen
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Oncode Institute, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 100, Utrecht 3584 CG, Netherlands
- Hartwig Medical Foundation, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Corresponding author.
| | - Ewart W. Kuijk
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Oncode Institute, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 100, Utrecht 3584 CG, Netherlands
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The “life code”: A theory that unifies the human life cycle and the origin of human tumors. Semin Cancer Biol 2020; 60:380-397. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2019.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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8
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A. Lea R, K. Niakan K. Human germline genome editing. Nat Cell Biol 2019; 21:1479-1489. [DOI: 10.1038/s41556-019-0424-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Tšuiko O, Jatsenko T, Parameswaran Grace LK, Kurg A, Vermeesch JR, Lanner F, Altmäe S, Salumets A. A speculative outlook on embryonic aneuploidy: Can molecular pathways be involved? Dev Biol 2018; 447:3-13. [PMID: 29391166 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2018.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Revised: 12/27/2017] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The journey of embryonic development starts at oocyte fertilization, which triggers a complex cascade of events and cellular pathways that guide early embryogenesis. Recent technological advances have greatly expanded our knowledge of cleavage-stage embryo development, which is characterized by an increased rate of whole-chromosome losses and gains, mixoploidy, and atypical cleavage morphokinetics. Embryonic aneuploidy significantly contributes to implantation failure, spontaneous miscarriage, stillbirth or congenital birth defects in both natural and assisted human reproduction. Essentially, early embryo development is strongly determined by maternal factors. Owing to considerable limitations associated with human oocyte and embryo research, the use of animal models is inevitable. However, cellular and molecular mechanisms driving the error-prone early stages of development are still poorly described. In this review, we describe known events that lead to aneuploidy in mammalian oocytes and preimplantation embryos. As the processes of oocyte and embryo development are rigorously regulated by multiple signal-transduction pathways, we explore the putative role of signaling pathways in genomic integrity maintenance. Based on the existing evidence from human and animal data, we investigate whether critical early developmental pathways, like Wnt, Hippo and MAPK, together with distinct DNA damage response and DNA repair pathways can be associated with embryo genomic instability, a question that has, so far, remained largely unexplored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Tšuiko
- Department of Biomedicine, Institute of Bio- and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu 50411, Estonia; Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu 50410, Estonia
| | | | - Lalit Kumar Parameswaran Grace
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm 17176, Sweden
| | - Ants Kurg
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Tartu 51010, Estonia
| | - Joris Robert Vermeesch
- Laboratory of Cytogenetics and Genome Research, Center of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Fredrik Lanner
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention, and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm 14186, Sweden
| | - Signe Altmäe
- Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu 50410, Estonia; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Granada, Granada 18071, Spain.
| | - Andres Salumets
- Department of Biomedicine, Institute of Bio- and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu 50411, Estonia; Competence Centre on Health Technologies, Tartu 50410, Estonia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu 51014, Estonia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki 00029, Finland
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10
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McCoy RC. Mosaicism in Preimplantation Human Embryos: When Chromosomal Abnormalities Are the Norm. Trends Genet 2017; 33:448-463. [PMID: 28457629 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2017.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2016] [Revised: 03/31/2017] [Accepted: 04/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Along with errors in meiosis, mitotic errors during post-zygotic cell division contribute to pervasive aneuploidy in human embryos. Relatively little is known, however, about the genesis of these errors or their fitness consequences. Rapid technological advances are helping to close this gap, revealing diverse molecular mechanisms contributing to mitotic error. These include altered cell cycle checkpoints, aberrations of the centrosome, and failed chromatid cohesion, mirroring findings from cancer biology. Recent studies are challenging the idea that mitotic error is abnormal, emphasizing that the fitness impacts of mosaicism depend on its scope and severity. In light of these findings, technical and philosophical limitations of various screening approaches are discussed, along with avenues for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajiv C McCoy
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
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11
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Albertini DF. On becoming accepting of the imperfectionsin mammalian embryogenesis. J Assist Reprod Genet 2017; 33:969-70. [PMID: 27448615 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0777-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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12
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Early human embryos are naturally aneuploid-can that be corrected? J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 34:15-21. [PMID: 27900612 PMCID: PMC5330987 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0845-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aneuploidy is common and may be a natural occurrence in early human embryos. Selecting against embryos containing aneuploid cells for embryo transfer has been reported to increase clinical pregnancies per transfer in some studies, but not others. Some aneuploidy is due to misallocation of chromosomes during meiosis, in either the egg or sperm, but most aneuploidy is due to misallocation of chromosomes during mitoses after fertilization. Big questions are as follows: Why does this happen? How much aneuploidy in a preimplantation embryo is compatible with normal fetal development? Is aneuploidy increased by in vitro culture, and/or could it be prevented or corrected in the IVF lab?
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Abstract
The preimplantation development stage of mammalian embryogenesis consists of a series of highly conserved, regulated, and predictable cell divisions. This process is essential to allow the rapid expansion and differentiation of a single-cell zygote into a multicellular blastocyst containing cells of multiple developmental lineages. This period of development, also known as the germinal stage, encompasses several important developmental transitions, which are accompanied by dramatic changes in cell cycle profiles and dynamics. These changes are driven primarily by differences in the establishment and enforcement of cell cycle checkpoints, which must be bypassed to facilitate the completion of essential cell cycle events. Much of the current knowledge in this area has been amassed through the study of knockout models in mice. These mouse models are powerful experimental tools, which have allowed us to dissect the relative dependence of the early embryonic cell cycles on various aspects of the cell cycle machinery and highlight the extent of functional redundancy between members of the same gene family. This chapter will explore the ways in which the cell cycle machinery, their accessory proteins, and their stimuli operate during mammalian preimplantation using mouse models as a reference and how this allows for the usually well-defined stages of the cell cycle to be shaped and transformed during this unique and critical stage of development.
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Munch EM, Sparks AE, Gonzalez Bosquet J, Christenson LK, Devor EJ, Van Voorhis BJ. Differentially expressed genes in preimplantation human embryos: potential candidate genes for blastocyst formation and implantation. J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:1017-25. [PMID: 27241529 PMCID: PMC4974233 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0745-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this study was to determine which genes and gene pathways are differentially expressed when comparing human blastocysts with cleavage-stage embryos. Methods We individually assessed gene expression in preimplantation human embryos at cleavage (n = 3) and blastocyst (n = 3) stages. Gene expression patterns were then validated in publically available datasets and then independently validated in vitro with additional human embryos using TaqMan gene expression assays. Immunolocalization studies were conducted to identify protein expression in intact blastocyst-stage embryos. Results Compared to cleavage-stage embryos, blastocyst-stage embryos differentially expressed 51 genes (p < 0.001), with overrepresentation in amoebiasis pathways and pathways in cancer. Of these 51 genes, 21 were found to be independently validated in a separate, publically available dataset, with a substantial agreement with our initial findings (κ = 0.8). In an independent set of cleavage- and blastocyst-stage embryos, we validated that six of eight tested genes were differentially expressed (p < 0.05) by RT-qPCR. Immunofluorescence studies documented the presence of two studied proteins in the trophectoderm of blastocyst-stage embryos. Conclusions Differentially expressed genes may be implicated in the invasion and proliferation of the early embryo. Our research highlights specific genes that may be further studied for their role in the implantation process and additionally raises questions about localized gene and/or protein expression in the trophectoderm, which could affect protocols for, and interpretation of, trophectoderm biopsies performed in in vitro fertilization cycles. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s10815-016-0745-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika M Munch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, 200 Hawkins Drive, PFP 31330, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA.
| | - Amy E Sparks
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, 200 Hawkins Drive, PFP 31330, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Jesus Gonzalez Bosquet
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, 200 Hawkins Drive, PFP 31330, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Lane K Christenson
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, The University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| | - Eric J Devor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, 200 Hawkins Drive, PFP 31330, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Bradley J Van Voorhis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, 200 Hawkins Drive, PFP 31330, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
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15
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Vlismas A, Bletsa R, Mavrogianni D, Mamali G, Pergamali M, Dinopoulou V, Partsinevelos G, Drakakis P, Loutradis D, Kiessling AA. Microarray Analyses Reveal Marked Differences in Growth Factor and Receptor Expression Between 8-Cell Human Embryos and Pluripotent Stem Cells. Stem Cells Dev 2016; 25:160-77. [PMID: 26493868 PMCID: PMC4733324 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2015.0284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous microarray analyses of RNAs from 8-cell (8C) human embryos revealed a lack of cell cycle checkpoints and overexpression of core circadian oscillators and cell cycle drivers relative to pluripotent human stem cells [human embryonic stem cells/induced pluripotent stem (hES/iPS)] and fibroblasts, suggesting growth factor independence during early cleavage stages. To explore this possibility, we queried our combined microarray database for expression of 487 growth factors and receptors. Fifty-one gene elements were overdetected on the 8C arrays relative to hES/iPS cells, including 14 detected at least 80-fold higher, which annotated to multiple pathways: six cytokine family (CSF1R, IL2RG, IL3RA, IL4, IL17B, IL23R), four transforming growth factor beta (TGFB) family (BMP6, BMP15, GDF9, ENG), one fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family [FGF14(FH4)], one epidermal growth factor member (GAB1), plus CD36, and CLEC10A. 8C-specific gene elements were enriched (73%) for reported circadian-controlled genes in mouse tissues. High-level detection of CSF1R, ENG, IL23R, and IL3RA specifically on the 8C arrays suggests the embryo plays an active role in blocking immune rejection and is poised for trophectoderm development; robust detection of NRG1, GAB1, -2, GRB7, and FGF14(FHF4) indicates novel roles in early development in addition to their known roles in later development. Forty-four gene elements were underdetected on the 8C arrays, including 11 at least 80-fold under the pluripotent cells: two cytokines (IFITM1, TNFRSF8), five TGFBs (BMP7, LEFTY1, LEFTY2, TDGF1, TDGF3), two FGFs (FGF2, FGF receptor 1), plus ING5, and WNT6. The microarray detection patterns suggest that hES/iPS cells exhibit suppressed circadian competence, underexpression of early differentiation markers, and more robust expression of generic pluripotency genes, in keeping with an artificial state of continual uncommitted cell division. In contrast, gene expression patterns of the 8C embryo suggest that it is an independent circadian rhythm-competent equivalence group poised to signal its environment, defend against maternal immune rejection, and begin the rapid commitment events of early embryogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonis Vlismas
- 1 Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of University of Athens, “Alexandra” Maternity Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Ritsa Bletsa
- 1 Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of University of Athens, “Alexandra” Maternity Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Despina Mavrogianni
- 1 Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of University of Athens, “Alexandra” Maternity Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgina Mamali
- 1 Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of University of Athens, “Alexandra” Maternity Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Pergamali
- 1 Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of University of Athens, “Alexandra” Maternity Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Dinopoulou
- 1 Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of University of Athens, “Alexandra” Maternity Hospital, Athens, Greece
- Bedford Research Foundation, Bedford, Massachusetts
| | - George Partsinevelos
- 1 Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of University of Athens, “Alexandra” Maternity Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Peter Drakakis
- 1 Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of University of Athens, “Alexandra” Maternity Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Loutradis
- 1 Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of University of Athens, “Alexandra” Maternity Hospital, Athens, Greece
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Daughtry BL, Chavez SL. Chromosomal instability in mammalian pre-implantation embryos: potential causes, detection methods, and clinical consequences. Cell Tissue Res 2016; 363:201-225. [PMID: 26590822 PMCID: PMC5621482 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-015-2305-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2015] [Accepted: 09/24/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Formation of a totipotent blastocyst capable of implantation is one of the first major milestones in early mammalian embryogenesis, but less than half of in vitro fertilized embryos from most mammals will progress to this stage of development. Whole chromosomal abnormalities, or aneuploidy, are key determinants of whether human embryos will arrest or reach the blastocyst stage. Depending on the type of chromosomal abnormality, however, certain embryos still form blastocysts and may be morphologically indistinguishable from chromosomally normal embryos. Despite the implementation of pre-implantation genetic screening and other advanced in vitro fertilization (IVF) techniques, the identification of aneuploid embryos remains complicated by high rates of mosaicism, atypical cell division, cellular fragmentation, sub-chromosomal instability, and micro-/multi-nucleation. Moreover, several of these processes occur in vivo following natural human conception, suggesting that they are not simply a consequence of culture conditions. Recent technological achievements in genetic, epigenetic, chromosomal, and non-invasive imaging have provided additional embryo assessment approaches, particularly at the single-cell level, and clinical trials investigating their efficacy are continuing to emerge. In this review, we summarize the potential mechanisms by which aneuploidy may arise, the various detection methods, and the technical advances (such as time-lapse imaging, "-omic" profiling, and next-generation sequencing) that have assisted in obtaining this data. We also discuss the possibility of aneuploidy resolution in embryos via various corrective mechanisms, including multi-polar divisions, fragment resorption, endoreduplication, and blastomere exclusion, and conclude by examining the potential implications of these findings for IVF success and human fecundity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany L Daughtry
- Department of Cell, Developmental & Cancer Biology, Graduate Program in Molecular & Cellular Biosciences, Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine, Portland, Ore., USA
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, 505 NW 185th Avenue, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA
| | - Shawn L Chavez
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, 505 NW 185th Avenue, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA.
- Physiology & Pharmacology, Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine, Portland, Ore., USA.
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine, Portland, Ore., USA.
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Single-cell RNA-Seq profiling of human preimplantation embryos and embryonic stem cells. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2013; 20:1131-9. [PMID: 23934149 DOI: 10.1038/nsmb.2660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1098] [Impact Index Per Article: 99.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2013] [Accepted: 08/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Measuring gene expression in individual cells is crucial for understanding the gene regulatory network controlling human embryonic development. Here we apply single-cell RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) analysis to 124 individual cells from human preimplantation embryos and human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) at different passages. The number of maternally expressed genes detected in our data set is 22,687, including 8,701 long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), which represents a significant increase from 9,735 maternal genes detected previously by cDNA microarray. We discovered 2,733 novel lncRNAs, many of which are expressed in specific developmental stages. To address the long-standing question whether gene expression signatures of human epiblast (EPI) and in vitro hESCs are the same, we found that EPI cells and primary hESC outgrowth have dramatically different transcriptomes, with 1,498 genes showing differential expression between them. This work provides a comprehensive framework of the transcriptome landscapes of human early embryos and hESCs.
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Wu TF, Zhang W, Su ZP, Chen SS, Chen GL, Wei YX, Sun T, Xie XS, Li B, Zhou YX, Du ZW. UHRF2 mRNA expression is low in malignant glioma but silencing inhibits the growth of U251 glioma cells in vitro. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2013; 13:5137-42. [PMID: 23244124 DOI: 10.7314/apjcp.2012.13.10.5137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
UHRF2 is a member of the ubiquitin plant homeo domain RING finger family, which has been proven to be frequently up-regulated in colorectal cancer cells and play a role as an oncogene in breast cancer cells. However, the role of UHRF2 in glioma cells remains unclear. In this study, we performed real-time quantitative PCR on 32 pathologically confirmed glioma samples (grade I, 4 cases; grade II, 11 cases; grade III, 10 cases; and grade IV, 7 cases; according to the 2007 WHO classification system) and four glioma cell lines (A172, U251, U373, and U87). The expression of UHRF2 mRNA was significantly lower in the grade III and grade IV groups compared with the noncancerous brain tissue group, whereas its expression was high in A172, U251, and U373 glioma cell lines. An in vitro assay was performed to investigate the functions of UHRF2. Using a lentivirus-based RNA interference (RNAi) approach, we down-regulated UHRF2 expression in the U251 glioma cell line. This down- regulation led to the inhibition of cell proliferation, an increase in cell apoptosis, and a change of cell cycle distribution, in which S stage cells decreased and G2/M stage cells increased. Our results suggest that UHRF2 may be closely related to tumorigenesis and the development of gliomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Feng Wu
- Neurosurgery and Brain and Nerve Research Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
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Shaw L, Sneddon SF, Zeef L, Kimber SJ, Brison DR. Global gene expression profiling of individual human oocytes and embryos demonstrates heterogeneity in early development. PLoS One 2013; 8:e64192. [PMID: 23717564 PMCID: PMC3661520 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0064192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2013] [Accepted: 04/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Early development in humans is characterised by low and variable embryonic viability, reflected in low fecundity and high rates of miscarriage, relative to other mammals. Data from assisted reproduction programmes provides additional evidence that this is largely mediated at the level of embryonic competence and is highly heterogeneous among embryos. Understanding the basis of this heterogeneity has important implications in a number of areas including: the regulation of early human development, disorders of pregnancy, assisted reproduction programmes, the long term health of children which may be programmed in early development, and the molecular basis of pluripotency in human stem cell populations. We have therefore investigated global gene expression profiles using polyAPCR amplification and microarray technology applied to individual human oocytes and 4-cell and blastocyst stage embryos. In order to explore the basis of any variability in detail, each developmental stage is replicated in triplicate. Our data show that although transcript profiles are highly stage-specific, within each stage they are relatively variable. We describe expression of a number of gene families and pathways including apoptosis, cell cycle and amino acid metabolism, which are variably expressed and may be reflective of embryonic developmental competence. Overall, our data suggest that heterogeneity in human embryo developmental competence is reflected in global transcript profiles, and that the vast majority of existing human embryo gene expression data based on pooled oocytes and embryos need to be reinterpreted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Shaw
- Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old St Mary’s Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Sharon F. Sneddon
- Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old St Mary’s Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Leo Zeef
- Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Susan J. Kimber
- Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel R. Brison
- Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old St Mary’s Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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20
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Mantikou E, Wong KM, Repping S, Mastenbroek S. Molecular origin of mitotic aneuploidies in preimplantation embryos. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2012; 1822:1921-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2012.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2012] [Revised: 06/14/2012] [Accepted: 06/26/2012] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Kakourou G, Jaroudi S, Tulay P, Heath C, Serhal P, Harper JC, Sengupta SB. Investigation of gene expression profiles before and after embryonic genome activation and assessment of functional pathways at the human metaphase II oocyte and blastocyst stage. Fertil Steril 2012; 99:803-814.e23. [PMID: 23148922 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.10.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2011] [Revised: 10/17/2012] [Accepted: 10/23/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the oocyte versus the blastocyst transcriptome and provide data on molecular pathways before and after embryonic genome activation. DESIGN Prospective laboratory research study. SETTING An IVF clinic and a specialist preimplantation genetics laboratory. PATIENT(S) Couples undergoing or having completed IVF treatment donating surplus oocytes or cryopreserved blastocysts after patient consent. INTERVENTION(S) Sets of pooled metaphase II (MII) oocytes or blastocysts were processed for RNA extraction, RNA amplification, and analysis with the use of the Human Genome Survey Microarrays v2.0 (Applied Biosystems). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Association of cell type and gene expression profile. RESULT(S) Totals of 1,909 and 3,122 genes were uniquely expressed in human MII oocytes and human blastocysts respectively, and 4,910 genes were differentially expressed between the two sample types. Expression levels of 560 housekeeping genes, genes involved in the microRNA processing pathway, as well as hormones and hormone receptors were also investigated. CONCLUSION(S) The lists of genes identified may be of use for understanding the processes involved in early embryo development and blastocyst implantation, and for identifying any dysregulation leading to infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Kakourou
- UCL Centre for Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom.
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22
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Calder A, Roth-Albin I, Bhatia S, Pilquil C, Lee JH, Bhatia M, Levadoux-Martin M, McNicol J, Russell J, Collins T, Draper JS. Lengthened G1 phase indicates differentiation status in human embryonic stem cells. Stem Cells Dev 2012; 22:279-95. [PMID: 22827698 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2012.0168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The cell cycle in pluripotent stem cells is notable for the brevity of the G1 phase, permitting rapid proliferation and reducing the duration of differentiation signal sensitivity associated with the G1 phase. Changes in the length of G1 phase are understood to accompany the differentiation of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs), but the timing and extent of such changes are poorly defined. Understanding the early steps governing the differentiation of hESCs will facilitate better control over differentiation for regenerative medicine and drug discovery applications. Here we report the first use of real-time cell cycle reporters in hESCs. We coexpressed the chromatin-decorating H2B-GFP fusion protein and the fluorescence ubiquitination cell cycle indicator (FUCCI)-G1 fusion protein, a G1 phase-specific reporter, in hESCs to measure the cell cycle status in live cells. We found that FUCCI-G1 expression is weakly detected in undifferentiated hESCs, but rapidly increases upon differentiation. hESCs in the G1 phase display a reduction in undifferentiated colony-initiating cell function, underscoring the relationship between G1 phase residence and differentiation. Importantly, we demonstrate inter- and intracolony variation in response to chemicals that induce differentiation, implying extensive cell-cell variation in the threshold necessary to alter the G1 phase length. Finally, gain of differentiation markers appears to be coincident with G1 phase lengthening, with distinct G1 phase profiles associated with different markers of early hESC differentiation. Our data demonstrate the tight coupling of cell cycle changes to hESC differentiation, and highlight the cell cycle reporter system and assays we have implemented as a novel avenue for investigating pluripotency and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Calder
- McMaster Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute, Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University , Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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23
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Lozano JC, Vergé V, Schatt P, Juengel JL, Peaucellier G. Evolution of cyclin B3 shows an abrupt three-fold size increase, due to the extension of a single exon in placental mammals, allowing for new protein-protein interactions. Mol Biol Evol 2012; 29:3855-71. [PMID: 22826462 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/mss189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclin B3 evolution has the unique peculiarity of an abrupt 3-fold increase of the protein size in the mammalian lineage due to the extension of a single exon. We have analyzed the evolution of the gene to define the modalities of this event and the possible consequences on the function of the protein. Database searches can trace the appearance of the gene to the origin of metazoans. Most introns were already present in early metazoans, and the intron-exon structure as well as the protein size were fairly conserved in invertebrates and nonmammalian vertebrates. Although intron gains are considered as rare events, we identified two cases, one at the prochordate-chordate transition and one in murids, resulting from different mechanisms. At the emergence of mammals, the gene was relocated from chromosome 6 of platypus to the X chromosome in marsupials, but the exon extension occurred only in placental mammals. A repetitive structure of 18 amino acids, of uncertain origin, is detectable in the 3,000-nt mammalian exon-encoded sequence, suggesting an extension by multiple internal duplications, some of which are still detectable in the primate lineage. Structure prediction programs suggest that the repetitive structure has no associated three-dimensional structure but rather a tendency for disorder. Splice variant isoforms were detected in several mammalian species but without conserved pattern, notably excluding the constant coexistence of premammalian-like transcripts, without the extension. The yeast two-hybrid method revealed that, in human, the extension allowed new interactions with ten unrelated proteins, most of them with specific three-dimensional structures involved in protein-protein interactions, and some highly expressed in testis, as is cyclin B3. The interactions with activator of cAMP-responsive element modulator in testis (ACT), germ cell-less homolog 1, and chromosome 1 open reading frame 14 remain to be verified in vivo since they may not be expressed at the same stages of spermatogenesis as cyclin B3.
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24
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Xanthopoulou L, Ghevaria H, Mantzouratou A, Serhal P, Doshi A, Delhanty JDA. Chromosome breakage in human preimplantation embryos from carriers of structural chromosomal abnormalities in relation to fragile sites, maternal age, and poor sperm factors. Cytogenet Genome Res 2011; 136:21-9. [PMID: 22179562 DOI: 10.1159/000334836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/05/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Chromosome breakage is a fairly widespread phenomenon in preimplantation embryos affecting at least 10% of day 3 cleavage stage embryos. It may be detected during preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD). For carriers of structural chromosomal abnormalities, PGD involves the removal and testing of single blastomeres from cleavage stage embryos, aiming towards an unaffected pregnancy. Twenty-two such couples were referred for PGD, and biopsied blastomeres on day 3 and untransferred embryos (day 5/6) were tested using fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) with appropriate probes. This study investigated whether chromosome breakage (a) was detected more frequently in cases where the breakpoint of the aberration was in the same chromosomal band as a fragile site and (b) was influenced by maternal age, sperm parameters, reproductive history, or the sex of the carrier parent. The frequency of breakage seemed to be independent of fragile sites, maternal age, reproductive history, and sex of the carrier parent. However, chromosome breakage was very significantly higher in embryos from male carriers with poor sperm parameters versus embryos from male carriers with normal sperm parameters. Consequently, embryos from certain couples were more prone to chromosome breakage, fragment loss, and hence chromosomally unbalanced embryos, independently of meiotic segregation.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Xanthopoulou
- UCL Centre for PGD, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK.
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25
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Non-invasive imaging of human embryos before embryonic genome activation predicts development to the blastocyst stage. Nat Biotechnol 2010; 28:1115-21. [PMID: 20890283 DOI: 10.1038/nbt.1686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 512] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2010] [Accepted: 09/03/2010] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
We report studies of preimplantation human embryo development that correlate time-lapse image analysis and gene expression profiling. By examining a large set of zygotes from in vitro fertilization (IVF), we find that success in progression to the blastocyst stage can be predicted with >93% sensitivity and specificity by measuring three dynamic, noninvasive imaging parameters by day 2 after fertilization, before embryonic genome activation (EGA). These parameters can be reliably monitored by automated image analysis, confirming that successful development follows a set of carefully orchestrated and predictable events. Moreover, we show that imaging phenotypes reflect molecular programs of the embryo and of individual blastomeres. Single-cell gene expression analysis reveals that blastomeres develop cell autonomously, with some cells advancing to EGA and others arresting. These studies indicate that success and failure in human embryo development is largely determined before EGA. Our methods and algorithms may provide an approach for early diagnosis of embryo potential in assisted reproduction.
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Abstract
A little studied aspect of developmental arrest (DA) in ART is zygote arrest (ZA). Etiologically, blockage at the first cleavage stage includes molecular and chromosomal anomalies, some of which manifest morphologically. Given considerations on embryo culture, transfer and cryopreservation, optimal zygote selection is very important. The aim of this study was to ascertain whether zygote morphological features were indicators of increased ZA. In this study we performed a prospective, observational study of 2105 zygotes obtained from consecutive patients who were undergoing IVF/ICSI treatment, of which 43 (2%) suffered ZA. Morphological features observed under the inverted microscope were qualitatively categorized: pronuclear size, nucleolar precursor bodies (NPB) alignment, light and dark halos, polar body placement and fragmentation observed at 16-18 h post-insemination. We compared these features in blocked versus cleaved zygotes at 48 h and found significant correlations (p < 0.05) between ZA and three features: the absence of a light halo (p = 0.001), the absence of a dark halo (p < 0.005), and non-aligned NPB (p < 0.05). We can say that certain morphological features are indicators of significantly increased zygote arrest. These findings may be of utility for optimal zygote selection and culture strategies, especially in countries under restrictive conditions.
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27
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Kiessling AA, Bletsa R, Desmarais B, Mara C, Kallianidis K, Loutradis D. Genome-wide microarray evidence that 8-cell human blastomeres over-express cell cycle drivers and under-express checkpoints. J Assist Reprod Genet 2010; 27:265-76. [PMID: 20358275 PMCID: PMC2914593 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-010-9407-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2010] [Accepted: 03/04/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To understand cell cycle controls in the 8-Cell human blastomere. METHODS Data from whole human genome (43,377 elements) microarray analyses of RNAs from normal 8-Cell human embryos were compiled with published microarrays of RNAs from human fibroblasts, before and after induced pluripotency, and embryonic stem cells. A sub database of 3,803 genes identified by high throughput RNA knock-down studies, plus genes that oscillate in human cells, was analyzed. RESULTS Thirty-five genes over-detected at least 7-fold specifically on the 8-Cell arrays were enriched for cell cycle drivers and for proteins that stabilize chromosome cohesion and spindle attachment and limit DNA and centrosome replication to once per cycle. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that 8-cell human blastomere cleavage is guided by cyclic over-expression of key proteins, rather than canonical checkpoints, leading to rapidly increasing gene copy number and a susceptibility to chromosome and cytokinesis mishaps, well-noted characteristics of preimplantation human embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann A. Kiessling
- Bedford Stem Cell Research Foundation, 206 Elm St, Suite 106, Somerville, MA 02144 USA
| | - Ritsa Bletsa
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Athens Medical School, “Alexandra” Maternity Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Bryan Desmarais
- Bedford Stem Cell Research Foundation, 206 Elm St, Suite 106, Somerville, MA 02144 USA
| | - Christina Mara
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Athens Medical School, “Alexandra” Maternity Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Kostas Kallianidis
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Athens Medical School, “Alexandra” Maternity Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Loutradis
- 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Athens Medical School, “Alexandra” Maternity Hospital, Athens, Greece
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Dolatshad H, Cary AJ, Davis FC. Differential expression of the circadian clock in maternal and embryonic tissues of mice. PLoS One 2010; 5:e9855. [PMID: 20352049 PMCID: PMC2844431 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0009855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2009] [Accepted: 02/22/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Molecular feedback loops involving transcription and translation and several key genes are at the core of circadian regulatory cycles affecting cellular pathways and metabolism. These cycles are active in most adult animal cells but little is known about their expression or influence during development. Methodology/Principal Findings To determine if circadian cycles are active during mammalian development we measured the expression of key circadian genes during embryogenesis in mice using quantitative real-time RT-PCR. All of the genes examined were expressed in whole embryos beginning at the earliest age examined, embryonic day 10. In contrast to adult tissues, circadian variation was absent for all genes at all of the embryonic ages examined in either whole embryos or individual tissues. Using a bioluminescent fusion protein that tracks translation of the circadian gene, per2, we also analyzed protein levels. Similar to mRNA, a protein rhythm was observed in adult tissue but not in embryonic tissues collected in-vivo. In contrast, when tissues were placed in culture for the continuous assay of bioluminescence, rhythms were observed in embryonic (E18) tissues. We found that placing embryonic tissues in culture set the timing (phase) of these rhythms, suggesting the importance of a synchronizing signal for the expression of circadian cycles in developing tissues. Conclusions/Significance These results show that embryonic tissues express key circadian genes and have the capacity to express active circadian regulatory cycles. In vivo, circadian cycles are not expressed in embryonic tissues as they are in adult tissues. Individual cells might express oscillations, but are not synchronized until later in development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Dolatshad
- Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Andrew J. Cary
- Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Fred C. Davis
- Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Kuznetsov VA, Singh O, Jenjaroenpun P. Statistics of protein-DNA binding and the total number of binding sites for a transcription factor in the mammalian genome. BMC Genomics 2010; 11 Suppl 1:S12. [PMID: 20158869 PMCID: PMC2822526 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-11-s1-s12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Transcription factor (TF)-DNA binding loci are explored by analyzing massive datasets generated with application of Chromatin Immuno-Precipitation (ChIP)-based high-throughput sequencing technologies. These datasets suffer from a bias in the information about binding loci availability, sample incompleteness and diverse sources of technical and biological noises. Therefore adequate mathematical models of ChIP-based high-throughput assay(s) and statistical tools are required for a robust identification of specific and reliable TF binding sites (TFBS), a precise characterization of TFBS avidity distribution and a plausible estimation the total number of specific TFBS for a given TF in the genome for a given cell type. Results We developed an exploratory mixture probabilistic model for a specific and non-specific transcription factor-DNA (TF-DNA) binding. Within ChiP-seq data sets, the statistics of specific and non-specific DNA-protein binding is defined by a mixture of sample size-dependent skewed functions described by Kolmogorov-Waring (K-W) function (Kuznetsov, 2003) and exponential function, respectively. Using available Chip-seq data for eleven TFs, essential for self-maintenance and differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells (SC) (Nanog, Oct4, sox2, KLf4, STAT3, E2F1, Tcfcp211, ZFX, n-Myc, c-Myc and Essrb) reported in Chen et al (2008), we estimated (i) the specificity and the sensitivity of the ChiP-seq binding assays and (ii) the number of specific but not identified in the current experiments binding sites (BSs) in the genome of mouse embryonic stem cells. Motif finding analysis applied to the identified c-Myc TFBSs supports our results and allowed us to predict many novel c-Myc target genes. Conclusion We provide a novel methodology of estimating the specificity and the sensitivity of TF-DNA binding in massively paralleled ChIP sequencing (ChIP-seq) binding assay. Goodness-of fit analysis of K-W functions suggests that a large fraction of low- and moderate- avidity TFBSs cannot be identified by the ChIP-based methods. Thus the task to identify the binding sensitivity of a TF cannot be technically resolved yet by current ChIP-seq, compared to former experimental techniques. Considering our improvement in measuring the sensitivity and the specificity of the TFs obtained from the ChIP-seq data, the models of transcriptional regulatory networks in embryonic cells and other cell types derived from the given ChIp-seq data should be carefully revised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir A Kuznetsov
- Department of Genome and Gene Expression Data Analysis, Bioinformatics Institute, 30 Biopolis str, Singapore.
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