1
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Firmin J, Ecker N, Rivet Danon D, Özgüç Ö, Barraud Lange V, Turlier H, Patrat C, Maître JL. Mechanics of human embryo compaction. Nature 2024; 629:646-651. [PMID: 38693259 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07351-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
The shaping of human embryos begins with compaction, during which cells come into close contact1,2. Assisted reproductive technology studies indicate that human embryos fail compaction primarily because of defective adhesion3,4. On the basis of our current understanding of animal morphogenesis5,6, other morphogenetic engines, such as cell contractility, could be involved in shaping human embryos. However, the molecular, cellular and physical mechanisms driving human embryo morphogenesis remain uncharacterized. Using micropipette aspiration on human embryos donated to research, we have mapped cell surface tensions during compaction. This shows a fourfold increase of tension at the cell-medium interface whereas cell-cell contacts keep a steady tension. Therefore, increased tension at the cell-medium interface drives human embryo compaction, which is qualitatively similar to compaction in mouse embryos7. Further comparison between human and mouse shows qualitatively similar but quantitively different mechanical strategies, with human embryos being mechanically least efficient. Inhibition of cell contractility and cell-cell adhesion in human embryos shows that, whereas both cellular processes are required for compaction, only contractility controls the surface tensions responsible for compaction. Cell contractility and cell-cell adhesion exhibit distinct mechanical signatures when faulty. Analysing the mechanical signature of naturally failing embryos, we find evidence that non-compacting or partially compacting embryos containing excluded cells have defective contractility. Together, our study shows that an evolutionarily conserved increase in cell contractility is required to generate the forces driving the first morphogenetic movement shaping the human body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Firmin
- Institut Curie, Université PSL, CNRS UMR3215, INSERM U934, Paris, France
- Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Service de Biologie de la Reproduction - CECOS, Paris Centre Hospital, APHP centre, FHU Prema, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Ecker
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Université PSL, FHU Prema, Paris, France
| | - Diane Rivet Danon
- Service de Biologie de la Reproduction - CECOS, Paris Centre Hospital, APHP centre, FHU Prema, Paris, France
| | - Özge Özgüç
- Institut Curie, Université PSL, CNRS UMR3215, INSERM U934, Paris, France
| | - Virginie Barraud Lange
- Service de Biologie de la Reproduction - CECOS, Paris Centre Hospital, APHP centre, FHU Prema, Paris, France
- Institut Cochin, Université de Paris, CNRS UMR1016, Paris, France
| | - Hervé Turlier
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Université PSL, FHU Prema, Paris, France
| | - Catherine Patrat
- Service de Biologie de la Reproduction - CECOS, Paris Centre Hospital, APHP centre, FHU Prema, Paris, France
- Institut Cochin, Université de Paris, CNRS UMR1016, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Léon Maître
- Institut Curie, Université PSL, CNRS UMR3215, INSERM U934, Paris, France.
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2
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Xiang L, Yin Y, Shi G, Li T. Human Pre-gastrulation Embryo Culture in 3D Condition. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2767:19-25. [PMID: 36515895 DOI: 10.1007/7651_2022_466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The development process of human embryo until blastocyst is well understood during the past 30 years, however, embryogenesis from blastocyst to pre-gastrulation was still remained a "black box". Limited by research materials and culture technologies, the "black box" is still unopened. We recently established an extended three-dimensional (3D) culture system of human blastocysts (Xiang et al., Nature 577(7791):537-542, 2020). The 3D embryo culture system could enable human blastocyst growing up to early primitive streak anlage stage in vitro. Here, we introduce the detail protocol and notes of culturing human 3D embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lifeng Xiang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yu Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Gaohui Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Tianqing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
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3
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Zhang L, Sun H, Chen X. Characterization of the long noncoding RNA transcriptome in human preimplantation embryo development. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:2913-2923. [PMID: 37770818 PMCID: PMC10656396 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02951-4] [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: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Infertility remains a human health burden globally. Only a fraction of embryos produced via assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) develop to the blastocyst stage in vitro. lncRNA abundance changes significantly during human early embryonic development, indicating vital regulatory roles of lncRNAs in this process. The aim of this study is to obtain insights into the transcriptional basis of developmental events. METHODS scRNA-seq data and SUPeR-seq data were used to investigate the lncRNA profiles of human preimplantation embryos. The top 50 highly expressed unique and shared lncRNAs in each stage of preimplantation development were identified. Comparative analysis of the two datasets was used to verify the consistent expression patterns of the lncRNAs. Differentially expressed lncRNAs were identified and subjected to functional enrichment analysis. RESULTS The lncRNA profiles of human preimplantation embryos in the E-MTAB-3929 dataset were similar to those in the GSE71318 dataset. The ratios of overlap among the top 50 highly expressed lncRNAs between two pairs of stages (2-cell stage vs. 4-cell stage and 8-cell stage vs. morula) were aberrantly low compared with those between other stages. Each stage of preimplantation development exhibited unique and shared lncRNAs among the top 50 highly expressed lncRNAs. Among the between-group comparisons, the 2-cell stage vs. 4-cell stage showed the highest number of differentially expressed lncRNAs. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that differentially expressed lncRNAs and their associated super enhancers and RNA binding proteins (RBPs) are closely involved in regulating embryonic development. These lncRNAs could function as important cell markers for distinguishing fetal germ cells. CONCLUSIONS Our study paves the way for understanding the regulation of developmental events, which might be beneficial for improved reproductive outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, 010050, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Hailong Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, 010050, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Xiujuan Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, 010050, Inner Mongolia, China.
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4
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Torre D, Francoeur NJ, Kalma Y, Gross Carmel I, Melo BS, Deikus G, Allette K, Flohr R, Fridrikh M, Vlachos K, Madrid K, Shah H, Wang YC, Sridhar SH, Smith ML, Eliyahu E, Azem F, Amir H, Mayshar Y, Marazzi I, Guccione E, Schadt E, Ben-Yosef D, Sebra R. Isoform-resolved transcriptome of the human preimplantation embryo. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6902. [PMID: 37903791 PMCID: PMC10616205 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42558-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Human preimplantation development involves extensive remodeling of RNA expression and splicing. However, its transcriptome has been compiled using short-read sequencing data, which fails to capture most full-length mRNAs. Here, we generate an isoform-resolved transcriptome of early human development by performing long- and short-read RNA sequencing on 73 embryos spanning the zygote to blastocyst stages. We identify 110,212 unannotated isoforms transcribed from known genes, including highly conserved protein-coding loci and key developmental regulators. We further identify 17,964 isoforms from 5,239 unannotated genes, which are largely non-coding, primate-specific, and highly associated with transposable elements. These isoforms are widely supported by the integration of published multi-omics datasets, including single-cell 8CLC and blastoid studies. Alternative splicing and gene co-expression network analyses further reveal that embryonic genome activation is associated with splicing disruption and transient upregulation of gene modules. Together, these findings show that the human embryo transcriptome is far more complex than currently known, and will act as a valuable resource to empower future studies exploring development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denis Torre
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | | | - Yael Kalma
- Fertility and IVF Institute, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Affiliated to Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 64239, Israel
| | - Ilana Gross Carmel
- Fertility and IVF Institute, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Affiliated to Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 64239, Israel
| | - Betsaida S Melo
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Center for Advanced Genomics Technology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Gintaras Deikus
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Center for Advanced Genomics Technology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Icahn Genomics Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Kimaada Allette
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Ron Flohr
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, 69978, Israel
- CORAL - Center Of Regeneration and Longevity, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, 64239, Israel
| | - Maya Fridrikh
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Center for Advanced Genomics Technology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Icahn Genomics Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | | | - Kent Madrid
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Center for Advanced Genomics Technology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Icahn Genomics Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Hardik Shah
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Center for Advanced Genomics Technology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Icahn Genomics Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Ying-Chih Wang
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Center for Advanced Genomics Technology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Icahn Genomics Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Shwetha H Sridhar
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Center for Advanced Genomics Technology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Icahn Genomics Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Melissa L Smith
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA
| | - Efrat Eliyahu
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Icahn Genomics Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Foad Azem
- Fertility and IVF Institute, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Affiliated to Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 64239, Israel
| | - Hadar Amir
- Fertility and IVF Institute, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Affiliated to Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 64239, Israel
| | - Yoav Mayshar
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Ivan Marazzi
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Center for Epigenetics and Metabolism, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Ernesto Guccione
- Center for OncoGenomics and Innovative Therapeutics (COGIT); Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Eric Schadt
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Dalit Ben-Yosef
- Fertility and IVF Institute, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Affiliated to Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, 64239, Israel.
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, 69978, Israel.
- CORAL - Center Of Regeneration and Longevity, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, 64239, Israel.
| | - Robert Sebra
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
- Center for Advanced Genomics Technology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
- Icahn Genomics Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
- Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
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5
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Pelzer D, de Plater L, Bradbury P, Eichmuller A, Bourdais A, Halet G, Maître J. Cell fragmentation in mouse preimplantation embryos induced by ectopic activation of the polar body extrusion pathway. EMBO J 2023; 42:e114415. [PMID: 37427462 PMCID: PMC10476277 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2023114415] [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: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell fragmentation is commonly observed in human preimplantation embryos and is associated with poor prognosis during assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures. However, the mechanisms leading to cell fragmentation remain largely unknown. Here, light sheet microscopy imaging of mouse embryos reveals that inefficient chromosome separation due to spindle defects, caused by dysfunctional molecular motors Myo1c or dynein, leads to fragmentation during mitosis. Extended exposure of the cell cortex to chromosomes locally triggers actomyosin contractility and pinches off cell fragments. This process is reminiscent of meiosis, during which small GTPase-mediated signals from chromosomes coordinate polar body extrusion (PBE) by actomyosin contraction. By interfering with the signals driving PBE, we find that this meiotic signaling pathway remains active during cleavage stages and is both required and sufficient to trigger fragmentation. Together, we find that fragmentation happens in mitosis after ectopic activation of actomyosin contractility by signals emanating from DNA, similar to those observed during meiosis. Our study uncovers the mechanisms underlying fragmentation in preimplantation embryos and, more generally, offers insight into the regulation of mitosis during the maternal-zygotic transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diane Pelzer
- Institut CuriePSL Research University, CNRS UMR 3215, INSERM U934ParisFrance
| | - Ludmilla de Plater
- Institut CuriePSL Research University, CNRS UMR 3215, INSERM U934ParisFrance
| | - Peta Bradbury
- Institut CuriePSL Research University, CNRS UMR 3215, INSERM U934ParisFrance
| | - Adrien Eichmuller
- Institut CuriePSL Research University, CNRS UMR 3215, INSERM U934ParisFrance
| | - Anne Bourdais
- Institut de Génétique et Développement de RennesUniversité de Rennes, CNRS UMR 6290RennesFrance
| | - Guillaume Halet
- Institut de Génétique et Développement de RennesUniversité de Rennes, CNRS UMR 6290RennesFrance
| | - Jean‐Léon Maître
- Institut CuriePSL Research University, CNRS UMR 3215, INSERM U934ParisFrance
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6
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Bozdemir N, Uysal F. Histone acetyltransferases and histone deacetyl transferases play crucial role during oogenesis and early embryo development. Genesis 2023; 61:e23518. [PMID: 37226850 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.23518] [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: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Dynamic epigenetic regulation is critical for proper oogenesis and early embryo development. During oogenesis, fully grown germinal vesicle oocytes develop to mature Metaphase II oocytes which are ready for fertilization. Fertilized oocyte proliferates mitotically until blastocyst formation and the process is called early embryo development. Throughout oogenesis and early embryo development, spatio-temporal gene expression takes place, and this dynamic gene expression is controlled with the aid of epigenetics. Epigenetic means that gene expression can be altered without changing DNA itself. Epigenome is regulated through DNA methylation and histone modifications. While DNA methylation generally ends up with repression of gene expression, histone modifications can result in expression or repression depending on type of modification, type of histone protein and its specific residue. One of the modifications is histone acetylation which generally ends up with gene expression. Histone acetylation occurs through the addition of acetyl group onto amino terminal of the core histone proteins by histone acetyltransferases (HATs). Contrarily, histone deacetylation is associated with repression of gene expression, and it is catalyzed by histone deacetylases (HDACs). This review article focuses on what is known about alterations in the expression of HATs and HDACs and emphasizes importance of HATs and HDACs during oogenesis and early embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazlican Bozdemir
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Ankara Medipol University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Fatma Uysal
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Ankara Medipol University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
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7
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Ikawa Y, Wakai T, Funahashi H, Soe TH, Watanabe K, Ohtsuki T. Photo-dependent cytosolic delivery of shRNA into a single blastomere in a mouse embryo. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13050. [PMID: 37567923 PMCID: PMC10421928 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40361-9] [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: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Single-cell-specific delivery of small RNAs, such as short hairpin RNA (shRNA) and small noncoding RNAs, allows us to elucidate the roles of specific upregulation of RNA expression and RNAi-mediated gene suppression in early embryo development. The photoinduced cytosolic dispersion of RNA (PCDR) method that we previously reported can introduce small RNAs into the cytosol of photoirradiated cells and enable RNA delivery into a single-cell in a spatiotemporally specific manner. However, the PCDR method has only been applied to planer cultured cells and not to embryos. This study demonstrated that the PCDR method can be utilized for photo-dependent cytosolic shRNA delivery into a single blastomere and for single blastomere-specific RNA interference in mouse embryos. Our results indicate that PCDR is a promising approach for studying the developmental process of early embryogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuka Ikawa
- Department of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan
| | - Takuya Wakai
- Department of Animal Science, Graduate of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Funahashi
- Department of Animal Science, Graduate of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan
| | - Tet Htut Soe
- Department of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan
| | - Kazunori Watanabe
- Department of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan
| | - Takashi Ohtsuki
- Department of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushimanaka, Okayama, 700-8530, Japan.
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8
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Fenelon KD, Gao F, Borad P, Abbasi S, Pachter L, Koromila T. Cell-specific occupancy dynamics between the pioneer-like factor Opa/ZIC and Ocelliless/OTX regulate early head development in embryos. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1126507. [PMID: 37051467 PMCID: PMC10083704 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1126507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
During development, embryonic patterning systems direct a set of initially uncommitted pluripotent cells to differentiate into a variety of cell types and tissues. A core network of transcription factors, such as Zelda/POU5F1, Odd-paired (Opa)/ZIC3 and Ocelliless (Oc)/OTX2, are conserved across animals. While Opa is essential for a second wave of zygotic activation after Zelda, it is unclear whether Opa drives head cell specification, in the Drosophila embryo. Our hypothesis is that Opa and Oc are interacting with distinct cis-regulatory regions for shaping cell fates in the embryonic head. Super-resolution microscopy and meta-analysis of single-cell RNAseq datasets show that opa’s and oc’s overlapping expression domains are dynamic in the head region, with both factors being simultaneously transcribed at the blastula stage. Additionally, analysis of single-embryo RNAseq data reveals a subgroup of Opa-bound genes to be Opa-independent in the cellularized embryo. Interrogation of these genes against Oc ChIPseq combined with in situ data, suggests that Opa is competing with Oc for the regulation of a subgroup of genes later in gastrulation. Specifically, we find that Oc binds to late, head-specific enhancers independently and activates them in a head-specific wave of zygotic transcription, suggesting distinct roles for Oc in the blastula and gastrula stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelli D. Fenelon
- Department of Biology, UT Arlington, Arlington, TX, United States
| | - Fan Gao
- Caltech Bioinformatics Resource Center (CBRC), Caltech, Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - Priyanshi Borad
- Department of Biology, UT Arlington, Arlington, TX, United States
| | - Shiva Abbasi
- Department of Biology, UT Arlington, Arlington, TX, United States
| | - Lior Pachter
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, United States
- Department of Computational Biology and Computing and Mathematical Sciences, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - Theodora Koromila
- Department of Biology, UT Arlington, Arlington, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Theodora Koromila,
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9
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Augustyniak J, Kozlowska H, Buzanska L. Genes Involved in DNA Repair and Mitophagy Protect Embryoid Bodies from the Toxic Effect of Methylmercury Chloride under Physioxia Conditions. Cells 2023; 12:cells12030390. [PMID: 36766732 PMCID: PMC9913246 DOI: 10.3390/cells12030390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The formation of embryoid bodies (EBs) from human pluripotent stem cells resembles the early stages of human embryo development, mimicking the organization of three germ layers. In our study, EBs were tested for their vulnerability to chronic exposure to low doses of MeHgCl (1 nM) under atmospheric (21%O2) and physioxia (5%O2) conditions. Significant differences were observed in the relative expression of genes associated with DNA repair and mitophagy between the tested oxygen conditions in nontreated EBs. When compared to physioxia conditions, the significant differences recorded in EBs cultured at 21% O2 included: (1) lower expression of genes associated with DNA repair (ATM, OGG1, PARP1, POLG1) and mitophagy (PARK2); (2) higher level of mtDNA copy number; and (3) higher expression of the neuroectodermal gene (NES). Chronic exposure to a low dose of MeHgCl (1 nM) disrupted the development of EBs under both oxygen conditions. However, only EBs exposed to MeHgCl at 21% O2 revealed downregulation of mtDNA copy number, increased oxidative DNA damage and DNA fragmentation, as well as disturbances in SOX17 (endoderm) and TBXT (mesoderm) genes expression. Our data revealed that physioxia conditions protected EBs genome integrity and their further differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Augustyniak
- Department of Neurochemistry, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
- Correspondence: (J.A.); (L.B.); Tel.: +48-668500988 (L.B.)
| | - Hanna Kozlowska
- Laboratory of Advanced Microscopy Technique, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Leonora Buzanska
- Department of Stem Cell Bioengineering, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
- Correspondence: (J.A.); (L.B.); Tel.: +48-668500988 (L.B.)
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10
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Graham ME, Jelin A, Hoon AH, Wilms Floet AM, Levey E, Graham EM. Assisted reproductive technology: Short- and long-term outcomes. Dev Med Child Neurol 2023; 65:38-49. [PMID: 35851656 PMCID: PMC9809323 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.15332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technology (ART) includes fertility treatment in which either eggs or embryos are handled outside a female's body to promote successful pregnancies and healthy offspring. Current ART procedures encompass in vitro fertilization with or without intracytoplasmic sperm injection. The most common complication of ART is related to the consequences of multiple pregnancy, which can be prevented or minimized by reducing the number of embryos transferred to the uterus, commonly single embryo transfer. ART has been shown to be variably associated with adverse short- and long-term perinatal outcomes, including cerebral palsy, autism, neurodevelopmental imprinting disorders, and cancer. However, there is uncertainty as to whether reported problems are related to the ART procedure itself, to factors related to infertility, to other medical and environmental factors, or a combination thereof. From a pathophysiological perspective, whether ART alters epigenetic mechanisms of gene expression, leading to later developmental, medical, and behavioral disorders, is an area of active investigation. With the meticulously conducted short- and long-term outcome studies completed so far, overall, and after controlling for multiple gestations and preterm delivery, the results suggest that ART is a safe procedure, offering hope to many parent(s) wishing for a healthy child. This paper highlights ART methods and the risk factors and confounders in the interpretation of short- and long-term outcome data, providing the reader with a means to evaluate findings and conclusions of outcome studies. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: Assisted reproductive technology (ART) is a relatively safe procedure. Single embryo implantation optimizes outcome. Informed consent, including the risks and benefits of ART, should be required. Ongoing longitudinal studies are necessary to fully understand ART outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Elaine Graham
- College of Arts and Sciences, Washington and Lee University, Lexington, VA, USA
| | - Angie Jelin
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Alexander H. Hoon
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Developmental Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA,Phelps Center for Cerebral Palsy and Neurodevelopmental Medicine, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Anna Maria Wilms Floet
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Developmental Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA,Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA,Center for Development and Learning, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Eric Levey
- Health Services for Children with Special Needs, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Ernest M. Graham
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA,Neuroscience Intensive Care Nursery Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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11
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Dionne G, Calder M, Betts DH, Rafea BA, Watson AJ. Expression and localization of NRF2/Keap1 signalling pathway genes in mouse preimplantation embryos exposed to free fatty acids. Gene Expr Patterns 2022; 46:119281. [PMID: 36243294 DOI: 10.1016/j.gep.2022.119281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Obese women experience greater incidence of infertility, with reproductive tracts exposing preimplantation embryos to elevated free fatty acids (FFA) such as palmitic acid (PA) and oleic acid (OA). PA treatment impairs mouse preimplantation development in vitro, while OA co-treatment rescues blastocyst development of PA treated embryos. In the present study, we investigated the effects of PA and OA treatment on NRF2/Keap1 localization, and relative antioxidant enzyme (Glutathione peroxidase; Gpx1, Catalase; Cat, Superoxide dismutase; Sod1 and γ-Glutamylcysteine ligase catalytic unit; Gclc) mRNA levels, during in vitro mouse preimplantation embryo development. Female mice were superovulated, mated, and embryos cultured in the presence of bovine Serum albumin (BSA) control or PA, or OA, alone (each at 100 μM) or PA + OA combined (each at 100 μM) treatment. NRF2 displayed nuclear localization at all developmental stages, whereas Keap1 primarily displayed cytoplasmic localization throughout control mouse preimplantation development in vitro. Relative transcript levels of Nrf2, Keap1, and downstream antioxidants significantly increased throughout control mouse preimplantation development in vitro. PA treatment significantly decreased blastocyst development and the levels of nuclear NRF2, while OA and PA + OA treatments did not. PA and OA treatments did not impact relative mRNA levels of Nrf2, Keap1, Gpx1, Cat, Sod1 or Gclc. Our outcomes demonstrate that cultured mouse embryos display nuclear NRF2, but that PA treatment reduces nuclear NRF2 and thus likely impacts NRF2/KEAP1 stress response mechanisms. Further studies should investigate whether free fatty acid effects on NRF2/KEAP1 contribute to the reduced fertility displayed by obese patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Dionne
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Canada; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London ON, N6A 5C1, Canada; The Children's Health Research Institute - Lawson Health Research Institute, London ON, N6C 2R5, Canada
| | - Michele Calder
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Canada; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London ON, N6A 5C1, Canada; The Children's Health Research Institute - Lawson Health Research Institute, London ON, N6C 2R5, Canada
| | - Dean H Betts
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Canada; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London ON, N6A 5C1, Canada; The Children's Health Research Institute - Lawson Health Research Institute, London ON, N6C 2R5, Canada
| | - Basim Abu Rafea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Canada; The Children's Health Research Institute - Lawson Health Research Institute, London ON, N6C 2R5, Canada
| | - Andrew J Watson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Canada; Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London ON, N6A 5C1, Canada; The Children's Health Research Institute - Lawson Health Research Institute, London ON, N6C 2R5, Canada.
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12
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Paloviita P, Vuoristo S. The non-coding genome in early human development - Recent advancements. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2022; 131:4-13. [PMID: 35177347 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Not that long ago, the human genome was discovered to be mainly non-coding, that is comprised of DNA sequences that do not code for proteins. The initial paradigm that non-coding is also non-functional was soon overturned and today the work to uncover the functions of non-coding DNA and RNA in human early embryogenesis has commenced. Early human development is characterized by large-scale changes in genomic activity and the transcriptome that are partly driven by the coordinated activation and repression of repetitive DNA elements scattered across the genome. Here we provide examples of recent novel discoveries of non-coding DNA and RNA interactions and mechanisms that ensure accurate non-coding activity during human maternal-to-zygotic transition and lineage segregation. These include studies on small and long non-coding RNAs, transposable element regulation, and RNA tailing in human oocytes and early embryos. High-throughput approaches to dissect the non-coding regulatory networks governing early human development are a foundation for functional studies of specific genomic elements and molecules that has only begun and will provide a wider understanding of early human embryogenesis and causes of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauliina Paloviita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sanna Vuoristo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland.
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13
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New insights into the epitranscriptomic control of pluripotent stem cell fate. Exp Mol Med 2022; 54:1643-1651. [PMID: 36266446 PMCID: PMC9636187 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-022-00824-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Each cell in the human body has a distinguishable fate. Pluripotent stem cells are challenged with a myriad of lineage differentiation options. Defects are more likely to be fatal to stem cells than to somatic cells due to the broad impact of the former on early development. Hence, a detailed understanding of the mechanisms that determine the fate of stem cells is needed. The mechanisms by which human pluripotent stem cells, although not fully equipped with complex chromatin structures or epigenetic regulatory mechanisms, accurately control gene expression and are important to the stem cell field. In this review, we examine the events driving pluripotent stem cell fate and the underlying changes in gene expression during early development. In addition, we highlight the role played by the epitranscriptome in the regulation of gene expression that is necessary for each fate-related event.
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14
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Conti E, Harschnitz O. Human stem cell models to study placode development, function and pathology. Development 2022; 149:276462. [DOI: 10.1242/dev.200831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Placodes are embryonic structures originating from the rostral ectoderm that give rise to highly diverse organs and tissues, comprising the anterior pituitary gland, paired sense organs and cranial sensory ganglia. Their development, including the underlying gene regulatory networks and signalling pathways, have been for the most part characterised in animal models. In this Review, we describe how placode development can be recapitulated by the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells towards placode progenitors and their derivatives, highlighting the value of this highly scalable platform as an optimal in vitro tool to study the development of human placodes, and identify human-specific mechanisms in their development, function and pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Conti
- Neurogenomics Research Centre, Human Technopole , Viale Rita Levi-Montalcini, 1, 20157 Milan , Italy
| | - Oliver Harschnitz
- Neurogenomics Research Centre, Human Technopole , Viale Rita Levi-Montalcini, 1, 20157 Milan , Italy
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15
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Yang Y, Laterza C, Stuart HT, Michielin F, Gagliano O, Urciuolo A, Elvassore N. Human Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Micropatterned Ectoderm Allows Cell Sorting of Meso-Endoderm Lineages. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:907159. [PMID: 35935488 PMCID: PMC9354750 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.907159] [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: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The human developmental processes during the early post-implantation stage instruct the specification and organization of the lineage progenitors into a body plan. These processes, which include patterning, cell sorting, and establishment of the three germ layers, have been classically studied in non-human model organisms and only recently, through micropatterning technology, in a human-specific context. Micropatterning technology has unveiled mechanisms during patterning and germ layer specification; however, cell sorting and their segregation in specific germ layer combinations have not been investigated yet in a human-specific in vitro system. Here, we developed an in vitro model of human ectodermal patterning, in which human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) self-organize to form a radially regionalized neural and non-central nervous system (CNS) ectoderm. We showed that by using micropatterning technology and by modulating BMP and WNT signals, we can regulate the appearance and spatial distribution of the different ectodermal populations. This pre-patterned ectoderm can be used to investigate the cell sorting behavior of hPSC-derived meso-endoderm cells, with an endoderm that segregates from the neural ectoderm. Thus, the combination of micro-technology with germ layer cross-mixing enables the study of cell sorting of different germ layers in a human context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- Department of Industrial Engineering (DII), University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Fondazione Ricerca Biomedica Avanzata Onlus, Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padova, Italy
| | - Cecilia Laterza
- Department of Industrial Engineering (DII), University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Fondazione Ricerca Biomedica Avanzata Onlus, Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padova, Italy
| | - Hannah T. Stuart
- Department of Industrial Engineering (DII), University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Fondazione Ricerca Biomedica Avanzata Onlus, Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padova, Italy
| | - Federica Michielin
- Fondazione Ricerca Biomedica Avanzata Onlus, Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padova, Italy
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Onelia Gagliano
- Department of Industrial Engineering (DII), University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Fondazione Ricerca Biomedica Avanzata Onlus, Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padova, Italy
| | - Anna Urciuolo
- Fondazione Ricerca Biomedica Avanzata Onlus, Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padova, Italy
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica, Città della Speranza, Padova, Italy
| | - Nicola Elvassore
- Department of Industrial Engineering (DII), University of Padova, Padova, Italy
- Fondazione Ricerca Biomedica Avanzata Onlus, Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, Padova, Italy
- Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
- *Correspondence: Nicola Elvassore,
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16
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Ai Z, Yin Y, Niu B, Li T. Deconstructing human peri-implantation embryogenesis based on embryos and embryoids. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:212-225. [PMID: 35552636 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The peri-implantation period from blastula to gastrula is one of the crucial stages of human embryo and stem cell development. During development, human embryos undergo many crucial events, such as embryonic lineage differentiation and development, structural self-assembly, pluripotency state transition, cell communication between lineages, and crosstalk between the embryo and uterus. Abnormalities in these developmental events will result in implantation failure or pregnancy loss. However, because of ethical and technical limits, the developmental dynamics of human peri-implantation embryos and the underlying mechanisms of abnormal development remain in a "black box". In this review, we summarize recent progress made towards our understanding of human peri-implantation embryogenesis based on extended in vitro cultured embryos and stem cell-based embryoids. These findings lay an important foundation for understanding early life, promoting research into human stem cells and their application, and preventing and treating infertility. We also propose key scientific issues regarding peri-implantation embryogenesis and provide an outlook on future study directions. Finally, we sum up China's contribution to the field and future opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongyong Ai
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research; Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China.,Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Yu Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research; Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China.,Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Baohua Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research; Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China.,Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Tianqing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research; Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China.,Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming, Yunnan, 650500, China
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17
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An Image Processing Protocol to Extract Variables Predictive of Human Embryo Fitness for Assisted Reproduction. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12073531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Despite the use of new techniques on embryo selection and the presence of equipment on the market, such as EmbryoScope® and Geri®, which help in the evaluation of embryo quality, there is still a subjectivity between the embryologist’s classifications, which are subjected to inter- and intra-observer variability, therefore compromising the successful implantation of the embryo. Nonetheless, with the acquisition of images through the time-lapse system, it is possible to perform digital processing of these images, providing a better analysis of the embryo, in addition to enabling the automatic analysis of a large volume of information. An image processing protocol was developed using well-established techniques to segment the image of blastocysts and extract variables of interest. A total of 33 variables were automatically generated by digital image processing, each one representing a different aspect of the embryo and describing a different characteristic of the blastocyst. These variables can be categorized into texture, gray-level average, gray-level standard deviation, modal value, relations, and light level. The automated and directed steps of the proposed processing protocol exclude spurious results, except when image quality (e.g., focus) prevents correct segmentation. The image processing protocol can segment human blastocyst images and automatically extract 33 variables that describe quantitative aspects of the blastocyst’s regions, with potential utility in embryo selection for assisted reproductive technology (ART).
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18
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Functional Genomic Screening in Human Pluripotent Stem Cells Reveals New Roadblocks in Early Pancreatic Endoderm Formation. Cells 2022; 11:cells11030582. [PMID: 35159392 PMCID: PMC8834018 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cells, with their ability to proliferate indefinitely and to differentiate into virtually all cell types of the human body, provide a novel resource to study human development and to implement relevant disease models. Here, we employed a human pancreatic differentiation platform complemented with an shRNA screen in human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) to identify potential drivers of early endoderm and pancreatic development. Deep sequencing followed by abundancy ranking pinpointed six top hit genes potentially associated with either improved or impaired endodermal differentiation, which were selected for functional validation in CRISPR-Cas9 mediated knockout (KO) lines. Upon endoderm differentiation (DE), particularly the loss of SLC22A1 and DSC2 led to impaired differentiation efficiency into CXCR4/KIT-positive DE cells. qPCR analysis also revealed changes in differentiation markers CXCR4, FOXA2, SOX17, and GATA6. Further differentiation of PSCs to the pancreatic progenitor (PP) stage resulted in a decreased proportion of PDX1/NKX6-1-positive cells in SLC22A1 KO lines, and in DSC2 KO lines when differentiated under specific culture conditions. Taken together, our study reveals novel genes with potential roles in early endodermal development.
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19
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Luo Y, Yu Y. Research Advances in Gametogenesis and Embryogenesis Using Pluripotent Stem Cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:801468. [PMID: 35127717 PMCID: PMC8810640 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.801468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The previous studies of human gametogenesis and embryogenesis have left many unanswered questions, which hinders the understanding of the physiology of these two vital processes and the development of diagnosis and treatment strategies for related diseases. Although many results have been obtained from animal studies, particularly mouse research, the results cannot be fully applied to humans due to species differences in physiology and pathology. However, due to ethical and material limitations, the direct study of human gametes and embryos is very difficult. The emergence and rapid development of organoids allow the construction of organoid systems that simulate gametogenesis and embryogenesis in vitro, and many studies have successfully established organoid systems for some parts of or even the entire processes of gametogenesis and embryogenesis. These studies typically start with the establishment of mouse models and then modify these models to obtain human organoid models. These organoid models can be used to obtain a better understanding of the signaling pathways, molecular mechanisms, genetics, and epigenetic changes involved in gametogenesis and embryogenesis and could also be applied to clinical applications, such as drug screening. Here, we discuss the formation of primordial stem cell-like cells (PGCLCs), and in vitro-induced gametes and embryoids using pluripotent stem cells (PSCs). We also analyze their applications and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Luo
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Yu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Stem Cell Research Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yang Yu,
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20
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He QL, Yuan P, Yang L, Yan ZQ, Chen W, Chen YD, Kong SM, Tang FC, Qiao J, Yan LY. Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals abnormal fluctuations in human eight-cell embryos associated with blastocyst formation failure. Mol Hum Reprod 2022; 28:6460826. [PMID: 34904654 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaab069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility has become a global health issue, with the number of people suffering from the disease increasing year by year, and ART offering great promise for infertility treatment. However, the regulation of early embryonic development is complicated and a series of processes takes place, including the maternal-to-zygotic transition. In addition, developmental arrest is frequently observed during human early embryonic development. In this study, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing on a biopsied blastomere from human eight-cell embryos and tracked the developmental potential of the remaining cells. To compare the sequencing results between different eight-cell embryos, we have combined the research data of this project with the data previously shared in the database and found that cells from the same embryo showed a higher correlation. Additionally, the transcriptome of embryos with blastocyst formation failure was significantly different from developed embryos, and the gene expression as well as cell signaling pathways related to embryonic development were also altered. In particular, the expression of some maternal and zygotic genes in the failed blastocyst formation group was significantly altered: the overall expression level of maternal genes was significantly higher in the failed blastocyst than the developed blastocyst group. In general, these findings provide clues for the causes of human embryonic arrest after the eight-cell stage, and they also provide new ideas for improving the success rate of ART in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi-Long He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Yuan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Lu Yang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhi-Qiang Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China.,Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yi-Dong Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Si-Ming Kong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China.,Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Fu-Chou Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Qiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China.,Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Li-Ying Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, China.,Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, China
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21
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Duan K, Si CY, Zhao SM, Ai ZY, Niu BH, Yin Y, Xiang LF, Ding H, Zheng Y. The Long Terminal Repeats of ERV6 Are Activated in Pre-Implantation Embryos of Cynomolgus Monkey. Cells 2021; 10:cells10102710. [PMID: 34685690 PMCID: PMC8534818 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Precise gene regulation is critical during embryo development. Long terminal repeat elements (LTRs) of endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) are dynamically expressed in blastocysts of mammalian embryos. However, the expression pattern of LTRs in monkey blastocyst is still unknown. By single-cell RNA-sequencing (seq) data of cynomolgus monkeys, we found that LTRs of several ERV families, including MacERV6, MacERV3, MacERV2, MacERVK1, and MacERVK2, were highly expressed in pre-implantation embryo cells including epiblast (EPI), trophectoderm (TrB), and primitive endoderm (PrE), but were depleted in post-implantation. We knocked down MacERV6-LTR1a in cynomolgus monkeys with a short hairpin RNA (shRNA) strategy to examine the potential function of MacERV6-LTR1a in the early development of monkey embryos. The silence of MacERV6-LTR1a mainly postpones the differentiation of TrB, EPI, and PrE cells in embryos at day 7 compared to control. Moreover, we confirmed MacERV6-LTR1a could recruit Estrogen Related Receptor Beta (ESRRB), which plays an important role in the maintenance of self-renewal and pluripotency of embryonic and trophoblast stem cells through different signaling pathways including FGF and Wnt signaling pathways. In summary, these results suggest that MacERV6-LTR1a is involved in gene regulation of the pre-implantation embryo of the cynomolgus monkeys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kui Duan
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China; (K.D.); (C.-Y.S.); (S.-M.Z.); (Z.-Y.A.); (B.-H.N.); (Y.Y.); (L.-F.X.); (H.D.)
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Provincial Academy of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Chen-Yang Si
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China; (K.D.); (C.-Y.S.); (S.-M.Z.); (Z.-Y.A.); (B.-H.N.); (Y.Y.); (L.-F.X.); (H.D.)
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Provincial Academy of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Shu-Mei Zhao
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China; (K.D.); (C.-Y.S.); (S.-M.Z.); (Z.-Y.A.); (B.-H.N.); (Y.Y.); (L.-F.X.); (H.D.)
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Provincial Academy of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Zong-Yong Ai
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China; (K.D.); (C.-Y.S.); (S.-M.Z.); (Z.-Y.A.); (B.-H.N.); (Y.Y.); (L.-F.X.); (H.D.)
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Provincial Academy of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Bao-Hua Niu
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China; (K.D.); (C.-Y.S.); (S.-M.Z.); (Z.-Y.A.); (B.-H.N.); (Y.Y.); (L.-F.X.); (H.D.)
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Provincial Academy of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Yu Yin
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China; (K.D.); (C.-Y.S.); (S.-M.Z.); (Z.-Y.A.); (B.-H.N.); (Y.Y.); (L.-F.X.); (H.D.)
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Provincial Academy of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Li-Feng Xiang
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China; (K.D.); (C.-Y.S.); (S.-M.Z.); (Z.-Y.A.); (B.-H.N.); (Y.Y.); (L.-F.X.); (H.D.)
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Provincial Academy of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Hao Ding
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China; (K.D.); (C.-Y.S.); (S.-M.Z.); (Z.-Y.A.); (B.-H.N.); (Y.Y.); (L.-F.X.); (H.D.)
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Provincial Academy of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Yun Zheng
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China; (K.D.); (C.-Y.S.); (S.-M.Z.); (Z.-Y.A.); (B.-H.N.); (Y.Y.); (L.-F.X.); (H.D.)
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- State Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Yunnan Provincial Academy of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China
- Correspondence:
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22
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Herrera-Delgado E, Maître JL. A theoretical understanding of mammalian preimplantation development. Cells Dev 2021; 168:203752. [PMID: 34634520 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdev.2021.203752] [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: 04/24/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The blastocyst has long been a hallmark system of study in developmental biology due to its importance in mammalian development and clinical relevance for assisted reproductive technologies. In recent years, the blastocyst is emerging as a system of study for mathematical modelling. In this review, we compile, to our knowledge, all models describing preimplantation development. Coupled with experiments, these models have provided insight regarding the morphogenesis and cell-fate specification throughout preimplantation development. In the case of cell-fate specification, theoretical models have provided mechanisms explaining how proportion of cell types are established and maintained when confronted to perturbations. For cell-shape based models, they have described quantitatively how mechanical forces sculpt the blastocyst and even predicted how morphogenesis could be manipulated. As theoretical biology develops, we believe the next critical stage in modelling involves an integration of cell fate and mechanics to provide integrative models of development at distinct spatiotemporal scales. We discuss how, building on a balanced base of mechanical and chemical models, the preimplantation embryo will play a key role in integrating these two faces of the same coin.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jean-Léon Maître
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, CNRS UMR3215, INSERM U934, Paris, France.
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23
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Sozen B, Jorgensen V, Weatherbee BAT, Chen S, Zhu M, Zernicka-Goetz M. Reconstructing aspects of human embryogenesis with pluripotent stem cells. Nat Commun 2021; 12:5550. [PMID: 34548496 PMCID: PMC8455697 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-25853-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding human development is of fundamental biological and clinical importance. Despite its significance, mechanisms behind human embryogenesis remain largely unknown. Here, we attempt to model human early embryo development with expanded pluripotent stem cells (EPSCs) in 3-dimensions. We define a protocol that allows us to generate self-organizing cystic structures from human EPSCs that display some hallmarks of human early embryogenesis. These structures mimic polarization and cavitation characteristic of pre-implantation development leading to blastocyst morphology formation and the transition to post-implantation-like organization upon extended culture. Single-cell RNA sequencing of these structures reveals subsets of cells bearing some resemblance to epiblast, hypoblast and trophectoderm lineages. Nevertheless, significant divergences from natural blastocysts persist in some key markers, and signalling pathways point towards ways in which morphology and transcriptional-level cell identities may diverge in stem cell models of the embryo. Thus, this stem cell platform provides insights into the design of stem cell models of embryogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berna Sozen
- Plasticity and Self-Organization Group, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, Caltech, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
- Department of Genetics, Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Victoria Jorgensen
- Plasticity and Self-Organization Group, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, Caltech, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
| | - Bailey A T Weatherbee
- Mammalian Development and Stem Cell Group, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Sisi Chen
- Plasticity and Self-Organization Group, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, Caltech, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
| | - Meng Zhu
- Mammalian Development and Stem Cell Group, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK
- Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Department of Genetics, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz
- Plasticity and Self-Organization Group, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, Caltech, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA.
- Mammalian Development and Stem Cell Group, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK.
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24
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Generation of human blastocyst-like structures from pluripotent stem cells. Cell Discov 2021; 7:81. [PMID: 34489415 PMCID: PMC8421367 DOI: 10.1038/s41421-021-00316-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Human blastocysts are comprised of the first three cell lineages of the embryo: trophectoderm, epiblast and primitive endoderm, all of which are essential for early development and organ formation. However, due to ethical concerns and restricted access to human blastocysts, a comprehensive understanding of early human embryogenesis is still lacking. To bridge this knowledge gap, a reliable model system that recapitulates early stages of human embryogenesis is needed. Here we developed a three-dimensional (3D), two-step induction protocol for generating blastocyst-like structures (EPS-blastoids) from human extended pluripotent stem (EPS) cells. Morphological and single-cell transcriptomic analyses revealed that EPS-blastoids contain key cell lineages and are transcriptionally similar to human blastocysts. Furthermore, EPS-blastoids are similar with human embryos that were cultured for 8 or 10 days in vitro, in terms of embryonic structures, cell lineages and transcriptomic profiles. In conclusion, we developed a scalable system to mimic human blastocyst development, which can potentially facilitate the study of early implantation failure that induced by developmental defects at early stage.
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25
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Clonal dynamics in early human embryogenesis inferred from somatic mutation. Nature 2021; 597:393-397. [PMID: 34433967 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-021-03786-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cellular dynamics and fate decision in early human embryogenesis remain largely unknown owing to the challenges of performing studies in human embryos1. Here, we explored whole-genomes of 334 single-cell colonies and targeted deep sequences of 379 bulk tissues obtained from various anatomical locations of seven recently deceased adult human donors. Using somatic mutations as an intrinsic barcode, we reconstructed early cellular phylogenies that demonstrate (1) an endogenous mutational rate that is higher in the first cell division but decreases to approximately one per cell per cell division later in life; (2) universal unequal contribution of early cells to embryo proper, resulting from early cellular bottlenecks that stochastically set aside epiblast cells within the embryo; (3) examples of varying degrees of early clonal imbalances between tissues on the left and right sides of the body, different germ layers and specific anatomical parts and organs; (4) emergence of a few ancestral cells that will substantially contribute to adult cell pools in blood and liver; and (5) presence of mitochondrial DNA heteroplasmy in the fertilized egg. Our approach also provides insights into the age-related mutational processes and loss of sex chromosomes in normal somatic cells. In sum, this study provides a foundation for future studies to complete cellular phylogenies in human embryogenesis.
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26
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Amnion signals are essential for mesoderm formation in primates. Nat Commun 2021; 12:5126. [PMID: 34446705 PMCID: PMC8390679 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-25186-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryonic development is largely conserved among mammals. However, certain genes show divergent functions. By generating a transcriptional atlas containing >30,000 cells from post-implantation non-human primate embryos, we uncover that ISL1, a gene with a well-established role in cardiogenesis, controls a gene regulatory network in primate amnion. CRISPR/Cas9-targeting of ISL1 results in non-human primate embryos which do not yield viable offspring, demonstrating that ISL1 is critically required in primate embryogenesis. On a cellular level, mutant ISL1 embryos display a failure in mesoderm formation due to reduced BMP4 signaling from the amnion. Via loss of function and rescue studies in human embryonic stem cells we confirm a similar role of ISL1 in human in vitro derived amnion. This study highlights the importance of the amnion as a signaling center during primate mesoderm formation and demonstrates the potential of in vitro primate model systems to dissect the genetics of early human embryonic development. Human and murine embryonic development has disparities, highlighting the need for primate systems. Here, the authors construct a post-implantation transcriptional atlas from non-human primate embryos and show ISL1 controls a gene regulatory network in the amnion required for mesoderm formation.
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27
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Mackinlay KML, Weatherbee BAT, Souza Rosa V, Handford CE, Hudson G, Coorens T, Pereira LV, Behjati S, Vallier L, Shahbazi MN, Zernicka-Goetz M. An in vitro stem cell model of human epiblast and yolk sac interaction. eLife 2021; 10:e63930. [PMID: 34403333 PMCID: PMC8370770 DOI: 10.7554/elife.63930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human embryogenesis entails complex signalling interactions between embryonic and extra-embryonic cells. However, how extra-embryonic cells direct morphogenesis within the human embryo remains largely unknown due to a lack of relevant stem cell models. Here, we have established conditions to differentiate human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) into yolk sac-like cells (YSLCs) that resemble the post-implantation human hypoblast molecularly and functionally. YSLCs induce the expression of pluripotency and anterior ectoderm markers in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) at the expense of mesoderm and endoderm markers. This activity is mediated by the release of BMP and WNT signalling pathway inhibitors, and, therefore, resembles the functioning of the anterior visceral endoderm signalling centre of the mouse embryo, which establishes the anterior-posterior axis. Our results implicate the yolk sac in epiblast cell fate specification in the human embryo and propose YSLCs as a tool for studying post-implantation human embryo development in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty ML Mackinlay
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Department of Physiology, Development and NeuroscienceCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - Bailey AT Weatherbee
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Department of Physiology, Development and NeuroscienceCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - Viviane Souza Rosa
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Department of Physiology, Development and NeuroscienceCambridgeUnited Kingdom
- National Laboratory for Embryonic Stem Cells (LaNCE), Department of Genetics and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São PauloSão PauloBrazil
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge Biomedical CampusCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - Charlotte E Handford
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Department of Physiology, Development and NeuroscienceCambridgeUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of CambridgeCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - George Hudson
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Department of Physiology, Development and NeuroscienceCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - Tim Coorens
- Wellcome Sanger InstituteCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - Lygia V Pereira
- National Laboratory for Embryonic Stem Cells (LaNCE), Department of Genetics and Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São PauloSão PauloBrazil
| | - Sam Behjati
- Wellcome Sanger InstituteCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - Ludovic Vallier
- Wellcome – MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge Biomedical CampusCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - Marta N Shahbazi
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Department of Physiology, Development and NeuroscienceCambridgeUnited Kingdom
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge Biomedical CampusCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | - Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz
- Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Department of Physiology, Development and NeuroscienceCambridgeUnited Kingdom
- Synthetic Mouse and Human Embryology Group, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Division of Biology and Biological EngineeringPasadenaUnited States
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28
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Firmin J, Maître JL. Morphogenesis of the human preimplantation embryo: bringing mechanics to the clinics. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 120:22-31. [PMID: 34253437 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
During preimplantation development, the human embryo forms the blastocyst, the structure enabling uterine implantation. The blastocyst consists of an epithelial envelope, the trophectoderm, encompassing a fluid-filled lumen, the blastocoel, and a cluster of pluripotent stem cells, the inner cell mass. This specific architecture is crucial for the implantation and further development of the human embryo. Furthermore, the morphology of the human embryo is a prime determinant for clinicians to assess the implantation potential of in vitro fertilized human embryos, which constitutes a key aspect of assisted reproduction technology. Therefore, it is crucial to understand how the human embryo builds the blastocyst. As any material, the human embryo changes shape under the action of forces. Here, we review recent advances in our understanding of the mechanical forces shaping the blastocyst. We discuss the cellular processes responsible for generating morphogenetic forces that were studied mostly in the mouse and review the literature on human embryos to see which of them may be conserved. Based on the specific morphological defects commonly observed in clinics during human preimplantation development, we discuss how mechanical forces and their underlying cellular processes may be affected. Together, we propose that bringing tissue mechanics to the clinics will advance our understanding of human preimplantation development, as well as our ability to help infertile couples to have babies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Firmin
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR3215, INSERM, U934 Paris, France
| | - Jean-Léon Maître
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR3215, INSERM, U934 Paris, France.
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29
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Molè MA, Coorens THH, Shahbazi MN, Weberling A, Weatherbee BAT, Gantner CW, Sancho-Serra C, Richardson L, Drinkwater A, Syed N, Engley S, Snell P, Christie L, Elder K, Campbell A, Fishel S, Behjati S, Vento-Tormo R, Zernicka-Goetz M. A single cell characterisation of human embryogenesis identifies pluripotency transitions and putative anterior hypoblast centre. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3679. [PMID: 34140473 PMCID: PMC8211662 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23758-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Following implantation, the human embryo undergoes major morphogenetic transformations that establish the future body plan. While the molecular events underpinning this process are established in mice, they remain unknown in humans. Here we characterise key events of human embryo morphogenesis, in the period between implantation and gastrulation, using single-cell analyses and functional studies. First, the embryonic epiblast cells transition through different pluripotent states and act as a source of FGF signals that ensure proliferation of both embryonic and extra-embryonic tissues. In a subset of embryos, we identify a group of asymmetrically positioned extra-embryonic hypoblast cells expressing inhibitors of BMP, NODAL and WNT signalling pathways. We suggest that this group of cells can act as the anterior singalling centre to pattern the epiblast. These results provide insights into pluripotency state transitions, the role of FGF signalling and the specification of anterior-posterior axis during human embryo development. Single cell analysis of early human embryos identifies key changes in pluripotency, the requirement of FGF signalling for embryo survival, and defines a putative anterior-like region of hypoblast cells, providing insights into how early human development is regulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo A Molè
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Marta N Shahbazi
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK
| | - Antonia Weberling
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Bailey A T Weatherbee
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Carlos W Gantner
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Lucy Richardson
- Herts & Essex Fertility Centre, Bishops College, Cheshunt, Herts, UK
| | - Abbie Drinkwater
- Herts & Essex Fertility Centre, Bishops College, Cheshunt, Herts, UK
| | - Najma Syed
- Herts & Essex Fertility Centre, Bishops College, Cheshunt, Herts, UK
| | - Stephanie Engley
- Herts & Essex Fertility Centre, Bishops College, Cheshunt, Herts, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Simon Fishel
- CARE Fertility Group, Nottingham, UK.,School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Sam Behjati
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK. .,Cambridge University Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK. .,Department of Paediatrics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | | | - Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK. .,Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA.
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30
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Pereira Daoud AM, Popovic M, Dondorp WJ, Trani Bustos M, Bredenoord AL, Chuva de Sousa Lopes SM, van den Brink SC, Roelen BAJ, de Wert GMWR, Heindryckx B. Modelling human embryogenesis: embryo-like structures spark ethical and policy debate. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 26:779-798. [PMID: 32712668 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2019] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studying the human peri-implantation period remains hindered by the limited accessibility of the in vivo environment and scarcity of research material. As such, continuing efforts have been directed towards developing embryo-like structures (ELS) from pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) that recapitulate aspects of embryogenesis in vitro. While the creation of such models offers immense potential for studying fundamental processes in both pre- and early post-implantation development, it also proves ethically contentious due to wide-ranging views on the moral and legal reverence due to human embryos. Lack of clarity on how to qualify and regulate research with ELS thus presents a challenge in that it may either limit this new field of research without valid grounds or allow it to develop without policies that reflect justified ethical concerns. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The aim of this article is to provide a comprehensive overview of the existing scientific approaches to generate ELS from mouse and human PSCs, as well as discuss future strategies towards innovation in the context of human development. Concurrently, we aim to set the agenda for the ethical and policy issues surrounding research on human ELS. SEARCH METHODS The PubMed database was used to search peer-reviewed articles and reviews using the following terms: 'stem cells', 'pluripotency', 'implantation', 'preimplantation', 'post-implantation', 'blastocyst', 'embryoid bodies', 'synthetic embryos', 'embryo models', 'self-assembly', 'human embryo-like structures', 'artificial embryos' in combination with other keywords related to the subject area. The PubMed and Web of Science databases were also used to systematically search publications on the ethics of ELS and human embryo research by using the aforementioned keywords in combination with 'ethics', 'law', 'regulation' and equivalent terms. All relevant publications until December 2019 were critically evaluated and discussed. OUTCOMES In vitro systems provide a promising way forward for uncovering early human development. Current platforms utilize PSCs in both two- and three-dimensional settings to mimic various early developmental stages, including epiblast, trophoblast and amniotic cavity formation, in addition to axis development and gastrulation. Nevertheless, much hinges on the term 'embryo-like'. Extension of traditional embryo frameworks to research with ELS reveals that (i) current embryo definitions require reconsideration, (ii) cellular convertibility challenges the attribution of moral standing on the basis of 'active potentiality' and (iii) meaningful application of embryo protective directives will require rethinking of the 14-day culture limit and moral weight attributed to (non-)viability. Many conceptual and normative (dis)similarities between ELS and embryos thus remain to be thoroughly elucidated. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Modelling embryogenesis holds vast potential for both human developmental biology and understanding various etiologies associated with infertility. To date, ELS have been shown to recapitulate several aspects of peri-implantation development, but critically, cannot develop into a fetus. Yet, concurrent to scientific innovation, considering the extent to which the use of ELS may raise moral concerns typical of human embryo research remains paramount. This will be crucial for harnessing the potential of ELS as a valuable research tool, whilst remaining within a robust moral and legal framework of professionally acceptable practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Pereira Daoud
- Department of Health Ethics and Society, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Medical Humanities, Utrecht University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,School for Oncology and Developmental Biology (GROW), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Mina Popovic
- Ghent-Fertility And Stem cell Team (G-FAST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Wybo J Dondorp
- Department of Health Ethics and Society, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,School for Oncology and Developmental Biology (GROW), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,School for Care and Public Health Research (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Socrates chair Ethics of Reproductive Genetics endowed by the Dutch Humanist Association, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marc Trani Bustos
- Ghent-Fertility And Stem cell Team (G-FAST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.,Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute-KNAW (Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Annelien L Bredenoord
- Department of Medical Humanities, Utrecht University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Susana M Chuva de Sousa Lopes
- Ghent-Fertility And Stem cell Team (G-FAST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Susanne C van den Brink
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute-KNAW (Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences) and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Bernard A J Roelen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Guido M W R de Wert
- Department of Health Ethics and Society, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,School for Oncology and Developmental Biology (GROW), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,School for Care and Public Health Research (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Björn Heindryckx
- Ghent-Fertility And Stem cell Team (G-FAST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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31
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Shukla V, Høffding MK, Hoffmann ER. Genome diversity and instability in human germ cells and preimplantation embryos. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 113:132-147. [PMID: 33500205 PMCID: PMC8097364 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2020.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Genome diversity is essential for evolution and is of fundamental importance to human health. Generating genome diversity requires phases of DNA damage and repair that can cause genome instability. Humans have a high incidence of de novo congenital disorders compared to other organisms. Recent access to eggs, sperm and preimplantation embryos is revealing unprecedented rates of genome instability that may result in infertility and de novo mutations that cause genomic imbalance in at least 70% of conceptions. The error type and incidence of de novo mutations differ during developmental stages and are influenced by differences in male and female meiosis. In females, DNA repair is a critical factor that determines fertility and reproductive lifespan. In males, aberrant meiotic recombination causes infertility, embryonic failure and pregnancy loss. Evidence suggest germ cells are remarkably diverse in the type of genome instability that they display and the DNA damage responses they deploy. Additionally, the initial embryonic cell cycles are characterized by a high degree of genome instability that cause congenital disorders and may limit the use of CRISPR-Cas9 for heritable genome editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vallari Shukla
- DNRF Center for Chromosome Stability, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Miya Kudo Høffding
- DNRF Center for Chromosome Stability, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Eva R Hoffmann
- DNRF Center for Chromosome Stability, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Hancock GV, Wamaitha SE, Peretz L, Clark AT. Mammalian primordial germ cell specification. Development 2021; 148:148/6/dev189217. [PMID: 33722957 DOI: 10.1242/dev.189217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The peri-implantation window of mammalian development is the crucial window for primordial germ cell (PGC) specification. Whereas pre-implantation dynamics are relatively conserved between species, the implantation window marks a stage of developmental divergence between key model organisms, and thus potential variance in the cell and molecular mechanisms for PGC specification. In humans, PGC specification is very difficult to study in vivo To address this, the combined use of human and nonhuman primate embryos, and stem cell-based embryo models are essential for determining the origin of PGCs, as are comparative analyses to the equivalent stages of mouse development. Understanding the origin of PGCs in the peri-implantation embryo is crucial not only for accurate modeling of this essential process using stem cells, but also in determining the role of global epigenetic reprogramming upon which sex-specific differentiation into gametes relies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace V Hancock
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.,Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.,Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Sissy E Wamaitha
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.,Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Lior Peretz
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Amander T Clark
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA .,Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.,Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.,Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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33
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Modeling human embryo development with embryonic and extra-embryonic stem cells. Dev Biol 2020; 474:91-99. [PMID: 33333069 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2020.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Early human post-implantation development involves extensive growth combined with a series of complex morphogenetic events. The lack of precise spatial and temporal control over these processes leads to pregnancy loss. Given the ethical and technical limitations in studying the natural human embryo, alternative approaches are needed to investigate mechanisms underlying this critical stage of human development. Here, we present an overview of the different stem cells and stem cell-derived models which serve as useful, albeit imperfect, tools in understanding human embryogenesis. Current models include stem cells that represent each of the three earliest lineages: human embryonic stem cells corresponding to the epiblast, hypoblast-like stem cells and trophoblast stem cells. We also review the use of human embryonic stem cells to model complex aspects of epiblast morphogenesis and differentiation. Additionally, we propose that the combination of both embryonic and extra-embryonic stem cells to form three-dimensional embryo models will provide valuable insights into cell-cell chemical and mechanical interactions that are essential for natural embryogenesis.
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34
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Yang J, Lu P, Li M, Yan C, Zhang T, Jiang W. GATA6-AS1 Regulates GATA6 Expression to Modulate Human Endoderm Differentiation. Stem Cell Reports 2020; 15:694-705. [PMID: 32795420 PMCID: PMC7486217 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2020.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcriptome analysis has uncovered a series of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) transcribed during cell differentiation, but how lncRNA is integrated with known transcriptional regulatory network is poorly understood. Here, we utilize human definitive endoderm differentiation as a model system and decipher the functional interaction between lncRNA and key transcriptional factor. We have identified GATA6-AS1, an lncRNA divergently transcribed from the GATA6 locus, is highly expressed during endoderm differentiation. Knockdown of GATA6-AS1 in human pluripotent stem cells has no influence on morphology and pluripotency; however, GATA6-AS1 depletion causes the deficiency of definitive endoderm differentiation. GATA6-AS1 positively regulates the expression of endoderm key factor GATA6. Further investigation shows GATA6-AS1 interacts with SMAD2/3 and activates the transcription of GATA6. In addition, overexpression of GATA6 is able to rescue the defect of endoderm differentiation due to the absence of GATA6-AS1, suggesting that GATA6 is the functional target of GATA6-AS1 during endoderm differentiation. Ultimately, our study reveals that GATA6-AS1 is necessary for human endoderm specification and reveals the underlying mechanism between GATA6-AS1 and GATA6. GATA6-AS1 is a lncRNA highly expressed in human endoderm with two isoforms GATA6-AS1 controls human endoderm differentiation through regulating GATA6 GATA6-AS1 regulates GATA6, the functional target in endoderm differentiation GATA6-AS1 is required for SMAD2/3-mediated GATA6 transcriptional activation
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Yang
- Department of Biological Repositories, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Pei Lu
- Department of Biological Repositories, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Mao Li
- Department of Biological Repositories, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Chenchao Yan
- Department of Biological Repositories, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Tianzhe Zhang
- Department of Biological Repositories, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Department of Biological Repositories, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan 430071, China; Human Genetics Resource Preservation Center of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China.
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35
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Heemskerk I. Full of potential: Pluripotent stem cells for the systems biology of embryonic patterning. Dev Biol 2020; 460:86-98. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2019.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Chuva de Sousa Lopes SM, Alexdottir MS, Valdimarsdottir G. The TGFβ Family in Human Placental Development at the Fetal-Maternal Interface. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10030453. [PMID: 32183218 PMCID: PMC7175362 DOI: 10.3390/biom10030453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging data suggest that a trophoblast stem cell (TSC) population exists in the early human placenta. However, in vitro stem cell culture models are still in development and it remains under debate how well they reflect primary trophoblast (TB) cells. The absence of robust protocols to generate TSCs from humans has resulted in limited knowledge of the molecular mechanisms that regulate human placental development and TB lineage specification when compared to other human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). As placentation in mouse and human differ considerably, it is only with the development of human-based disease models using TSCs that we will be able to understand the various diseases caused by abnormal placentation in humans, such as preeclampsia. In this review, we summarize the knowledge on normal human placental development, the placental disease preeclampsia, and current stem cell model systems used to mimic TB differentiation. A special focus is given to the transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) family as it has been shown that the TGFβ family has an important role in human placental development and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana M. Chuva de Sousa Lopes
- Dept. Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2300 Leiden, The Netherlands;
- Dept. Reproductive Medicine Anatomy and Embryology, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marta S. Alexdottir
- Department of Anatomy, BioMedical Center, University of Iceland, Sturlugata 8, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland;
| | - Gudrun Valdimarsdottir
- Department of Anatomy, BioMedical Center, University of Iceland, Sturlugata 8, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +354-5254797
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37
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Prajapati RS, Hintze M, Streit A. PRDM1 controls the sequential activation of neural, neural crest and sensory progenitor determinants. Development 2019; 146:dev.181107. [PMID: 31806661 DOI: 10.1242/dev.181107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
During early embryogenesis, the ectoderm is rapidly subdivided into neural, neural crest and sensory progenitors. How the onset of lineage determinants and the loss of pluripotency markers are temporally and spatially coordinated in vivo is still debated. Here, we identify a crucial role for the transcription factor PRDM1 in the orderly transition from epiblast to defined neural lineages in chick. PRDM1 is initially expressed broadly in the entire epiblast, but becomes gradually restricted as cell fates are specified. We find that PRDM1 is required for the loss of some pluripotency markers and the onset of neural, neural crest and sensory progenitor specifier genes. PRDM1 directly activates their expression by binding to their promoter regions and recruiting the histone demethylase Kdm4a to remove repressive histone marks. However, once neural lineage determinants become expressed, they in turn repress PRDM1, whereas prolonged PRDM1 expression inhibits neural, neural crest and sensory progenitor genes, suggesting that its downregulation is necessary for cells to maintain their identity. Therefore, PRDM1 plays multiple roles during ectodermal cell fate allocation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravindra S Prajapati
- Centre for Craniofacial & Regenerative Biology, Faculty of Dental, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Mark Hintze
- Centre for Craniofacial & Regenerative Biology, Faculty of Dental, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London SE1 9RT, UK
| | - Andrea Streit
- Centre for Craniofacial & Regenerative Biology, Faculty of Dental, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King's College London, London SE1 9RT, UK
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38
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Xiang L, Yin Y, Zheng Y, Ma Y, Li Y, Zhao Z, Guo J, Ai Z, Niu Y, Duan K, He J, Ren S, Wu D, Bai Y, Shang Z, Dai X, Ji W, Li T. A developmental landscape of 3D-cultured human pre-gastrulation embryos. Nature 2019; 577:537-542. [DOI: 10.1038/s41586-019-1875-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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39
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Fowler JL, Ang LT, Loh KM. A critical look: Challenges in differentiating human pluripotent stem cells into desired cell types and organoids. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2019; 9:e368. [PMID: 31746148 DOI: 10.1002/wdev.368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Too many choices can be problematic. This is certainly the case for human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs): they harbor the potential to differentiate into hundreds of cell types; yet it is highly challenging to exclusively differentiate hPSCs into a single desired cell type. This review focuses on unresolved and fundamental questions regarding hPSC differentiation and critiquing the identity and purity of the resultant cell populations. These are timely issues in view of the fact that hPSC-derived cell populations have or are being transplanted into patients in over 30 ongoing clinical trials. While many in vitro differentiation protocols purport to "mimic development," the exact number and identity of intermediate steps that a pluripotent cell takes to differentiate into a given cell type in vivo remains largely unknown. Consequently, most differentiation efforts inevitably generate a heterogeneous cellular population, as revealed by single-cell RNA-sequencing and other analyses. The presence of unwanted cell types in differentiated hPSC populations does not portend well for transplantation therapies. This provides an impetus to precisely control differentiation to desired ends-for instance, by logically blocking the formation of unwanted cell types or by overexpressing lineage-specifying transcription factors-or by harnessing technologies to selectively purify desired cell types. Conversely, approaches to differentiate three-dimensional "organoids" from hPSCs intentionally generate heterogeneous cell populations. While this is intended to mimic the rich cellular diversity of developing tissues, whether all such organoids are spatially organized in a manner akin to native organs (and thus, whether they fully qualify as organoids) remains to be fully resolved. This article is categorized under: Adult Stem Cells > Tissue Renewal > Regeneration: Stem Cell Differentiation and Reversion Gene Expression > Transcriptional Hierarchies: Cellular Differentiation Early Embryonic Development: Gastrulation and Neurulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas L Fowler
- Stanford Institute for Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Stanford-UC Berkeley Siebel Stem Cell Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California.,Department of Developmental Biology, Bio-X, Cancer Institute, Cardiovascular Institute, ChEM-H, Diabetes Research Center, Maternal & Child Health Research Institute, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Lay Teng Ang
- Stanford Institute for Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Stanford-UC Berkeley Siebel Stem Cell Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Kyle M Loh
- Stanford Institute for Stem Cell Biology & Regenerative Medicine, Stanford-UC Berkeley Siebel Stem Cell Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California.,Department of Developmental Biology, Bio-X, Cancer Institute, Cardiovascular Institute, ChEM-H, Diabetes Research Center, Maternal & Child Health Research Institute, Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
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40
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Rossant J. Gene editing in human development: ethical concerns and practical applications. Development 2018; 145:145/16/dev150888. [PMID: 30045910 DOI: 10.1242/dev.150888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The amazing power of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing tools and other related technologies has impacted all areas of biology today. It has also raised ethical concerns, particularly with regard to the possibility of generating heritable changes in the human genome - so-called germline gene editing. Although technical and safety issues suggest that this approach is far from clinical application, gene editing as a research tool is moving forward in human embryos, non-human primates and in stem cell-derived embryoids. These studies are already providing new information relevant to our understanding of normal human development, infertility, early pregnancy loss and pluripotent stem cell origins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Rossant
- Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, Hospital for Sick Children, and Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada M5G 0A4
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41
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Shahbazi MN, Zernicka-Goetz M. Deconstructing and reconstructing the mouse and human early embryo. Nat Cell Biol 2018; 20:878-887. [PMID: 30038253 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-018-0144-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of form and function during mammalian embryogenesis is a complex process that involves multiple regulatory levels. The foundations of the body plan are laid throughout the first days of post-implantation development as embryonic stem cells undergo symmetry breaking and initiate lineage specification, in a process that coincides with a global morphological reorganization of the embryo. Here, we review experimental models and how they have shaped our current understanding of the post-implantation mammalian embryo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta N Shahbazi
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Mammalian Embryo and Stem Cell Group, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
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