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Fabová Z, Loncová B, Harrath AH, Sirotkin AV. The growth factors amphiregulin and epiregulin are novel stimulators of feline ovarian granulosa cell functions. Reprod Domest Anim 2024; 59:e14628. [PMID: 38828525 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the impact of the epidermal growth factor receptor ligands amphiregulin (AREG) and epiregulin (EREG) on the fundamental functions of feline ovarian granulosa cells. Granulosa cells isolated from feline ovaries were incubated with AREG and EREG (0, 0.1, 1 or 10 ng/mL). The effects of these growth factors on cell viability, proliferation (assessed through BrdU incorporation), nuclear apoptosis (evaluated through nuclear DNA fragmentation) and the release of progesterone and estradiol were determined using Cell Counting Kit-8 assays, BrdU analysis, TUNEL assays and ELISAs, respectively. Both AREG and EREG increased cell viability, proliferation and steroid hormone release and reduced apoptosis. The present findings suggest that these epidermal growth factor receptor ligands may serve as physiological stimulators of feline ovarian cell functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Fabová
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Informatics, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Barbora Loncová
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Informatics, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Abdel Halim Harrath
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alexander V Sirotkin
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Informatics, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, Slovakia
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Hu S, Jing Y, Fu Y, Ye X. Association of FSHR gene polymorphisms with poor ovarian response in patients undergoing IVF: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Gene 2024; 909:148314. [PMID: 38412944 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148314] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The results of studies on the association between polymorphisms in the FSHR gene and the risk of POR undergoing IVF have been inconsistent with each other, so we conducted a meta-analysis of all the available studies to explore the association between polymorphisms in the FSHR gene and the risk of POR. METHODS Literature that met the inclusion criteria was collected by searching six electronic databases and basic data from included studies were extracted. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the strength of association between follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) gene polymorphism and poor ovarian response (POR) risk. Begg's and Egger's tests were used to determine whether there was publication bias, and sensitivity analysis and TSA analysis were used to verify the stability and reliability of the results. RESULTS We included 24 articles, 22 of which explored rs6166, including 2,206 cases and 3,897 controls. 6 articles explored rs6165, including 444 cases and 875 controls. Under additive, heterozygote, and dominant models, rs6166 was significantly associated with POR (S vs. N: OR = 1.29, 95 % CI = 1.05-1.59, P = 0.017; NS vs. NN: OR = 1.33, 95 % CI = 1.02-1.74, P = 0.038; NS + SS vs. NN: OR = 1.38, 95 % CI = 1.04-1.84, P = 0.025). In ethnicity-based subgroup analyses, the additive, homozygote, heterozygote, and dominant models increased Asian POR risk. Among the five genetic models, rs6165 was significantly associated with POR (T vs. C: OR = 1.64, 95 % CI = 1.25-2.16, P = 0.000; TT vs. CC: OR = 2.76, 95 % CI = 1.43-5.32, P = 0.003; CT vs. CC: OR = 1.58, 95 % CI = 1.19-2.10, P = 0.001; TT vs. CC + CT: OR = 2.32, 95 % CI = 1.67-3.23, P = 0.000; CT + TT vs. CC: OR = 1.80, 95 % CI = 1.22-2.65, P = 0.003). In ethnicity-based subgroup analyses, all five genetic models increased the risk of POR in Caucasians. CONCLUSION According to the current meta-analysis, the rs6166 S allele was significantly associated with an increased risk of POR, especially in Asian populations. The rs6165 T allele was significantly associated with an increased risk of POR, especially in Caucasian populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siya Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Yunnan Jing
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Yiman Fu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chongqing Jiangbei District Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing 400020, China
| | - Xiuying Ye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chongqing Jiangbei District Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing 400020, China.
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Del Bianco D, Gentile R, Sallicandro L, Biagini A, Quellari PT, Gliozheni E, Sabbatini P, Ragonese F, Malvasi A, D’Amato A, Baldini GM, Trojano G, Tinelli A, Fioretti B. Electro-Metabolic Coupling of Cumulus-Oocyte Complex. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5349. [PMID: 38791387 PMCID: PMC11120766 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Oocyte-cumulus cell interaction is essential for oocyte maturation and competence. The bidirectional crosstalk network mediated by gap junctions is fundamental for the metabolic cooperation between these cells. As cumulus cells exhibit a more glycolytic phenotype, they can provide metabolic substrates that the oocyte can use to produce ATP via oxidative phosphorylation. The impairment of mitochondrial activity plays a crucial role in ovarian aging and, thus, in fertility, determining the success or failure of assisted reproductive techniques. This review aims to deepen the knowledge about the electro-metabolic coupling of the cumulus-oocyte complex and to hypothesize a putative role of potassium channel modulators in order to improve fertility, promote intracellular Ca2+ influx, and increase the mitochondrial biogenesis and resulting ATP levels in cumulus cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diletta Del Bianco
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
| | - Rosaria Gentile
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Laboratorio Interdipartimentale di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Edificio C, Piano 3 P.zza Lucio Severi, 1, Sant’Andrea delle Fratte, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Luana Sallicandro
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia Medical School, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Andrea Biagini
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia Medical School, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Paola Tiziana Quellari
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia Medical School, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy
- ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, 20162 Milano, Italy
| | - Elko Gliozheni
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia Medical School, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tirana, AL1005 Tirana, Albania
| | - Paola Sabbatini
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
| | - Francesco Ragonese
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Laboratorio Interdipartimentale di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Edificio C, Piano 3 P.zza Lucio Severi, 1, Sant’Andrea delle Fratte, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Antonio Malvasi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | - Antonio D’Amato
- 1st Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | | | - Giuseppe Trojano
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, “Madonna delle Grazie” Hospital ASM, 75100 Matera, Italy;
| | - Andrea Tinelli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and CERICSAL (CEntro di RIcerca Clinico SALentino), Veris delli Ponti Hospital, Via Giuseppina delli Ponti, 73020 Scorrano, Lecce, Italy
| | - Bernard Fioretti
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Laboratorio Interdipartimentale di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Edificio C, Piano 3 P.zza Lucio Severi, 1, Sant’Andrea delle Fratte, 06132 Perugia, Italy
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Pham HH, Le AH, Nguyen TC, Ma MPQ, Akin N, Pham TD, Nguyen MHN, Le HL, Huynh BG, Smitz J, Ho TM, Vuong LN. Effect of single versus grouped culture of human cumulus-oocyte complexes in PCOS women treated with biphasic in vitro maturation: A sibling oocyte pilot study. Reprod Med Biol 2024; 23:e12587. [PMID: 38854775 PMCID: PMC11157497 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study investigated the differences in the maturation rate of single versus grouped cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) culture methods for capacitation in vitro maturation (CAPA-IVM) in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Methods This study was performed at My Duc Phu Nhuan Hospital, Vietnam from October 1, 2020 to October 24, 2021. Women aged 18-37 years with a diagnosis of PCOS were recruited. COCs from each woman were randomly divided into two groups: single or grouped culture during CAPA-IVM culture. The primary outcome was the maturation rate. Results A total of 322 COCs from 15 eligible women included were randomly assigned to the two study groups. The maturation rate was comparable between the single and grouped culture groups (61.3% vs. 64.8%; p = 0.56). There were no significant differences in the number of 2-pronuclei fertilized oocytes, number of day-3 embryos, and number of good-quality embryos in the two culture method groups. In the single culture group, COCs morphology was associated with the day-3 embryo formation rate but not the maturation rate. Conclusions Comparable oocyte maturation and embryology outcomes between single and grouped COCs culture utilizing sibling COCs derived from women with PCOS suggest the feasibility of both methods for CAPA-IVM culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huy H. Pham
- IVMFD Phu NhuanMy Duc Phu Nhuan HospitalHo Chi Minh CityVietnam
- HOPE Research CenterMy Duc HospitalHo Chi Minh CityVietnam
| | - Anh H. Le
- IVMFD Phu NhuanMy Duc Phu Nhuan HospitalHo Chi Minh CityVietnam
- HOPE Research CenterMy Duc HospitalHo Chi Minh CityVietnam
| | - Tri C. Nguyen
- HOPE Research CenterMy Duc HospitalHo Chi Minh CityVietnam
| | - Mai P. Q. Ma
- Follicle Biology LaboratoryFree University of Brussels (VUB)BrusselsBelgium
| | - Nazli Akin
- Follicle Biology LaboratoryFree University of Brussels (VUB)BrusselsBelgium
| | - Toan D. Pham
- HOPE Research CenterMy Duc HospitalHo Chi Minh CityVietnam
| | | | - Ho L. Le
- IVMFD Phu NhuanMy Duc Phu Nhuan HospitalHo Chi Minh CityVietnam
- HOPE Research CenterMy Duc HospitalHo Chi Minh CityVietnam
| | - Bao G. Huynh
- HOPE Research CenterMy Duc HospitalHo Chi Minh CityVietnam
- IVFMDMy Duc HospitalHo Chi Minh CityVietnam
| | - Johan Smitz
- Follicle Biology LaboratoryFree University of Brussels (VUB)BrusselsBelgium
| | - Tuong M. Ho
- HOPE Research CenterMy Duc HospitalHo Chi Minh CityVietnam
- IVFMDMy Duc HospitalHo Chi Minh CityVietnam
| | - Lan N. Vuong
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh CityHo Chi Minh CityVietnam
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Uju CN, Unniappan S. Growth factors and female reproduction in vertebrates. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 579:112091. [PMID: 37863469 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.112091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Female reproductive efficiency is influenced by the outcomes of various processes, including folliculogenesis, apoptosis, response to gonadotropin signaling, oocyte maturation, and ovulation. The role of hormones in regulating these processes and other reproductive activities has been well established. It is becoming increasingly evident that in addition to well-characterized hormones, growth factors play vital roles in regulating some of these reproductive activities. Growth factors and their receptors are widely distributed in vertebrate ovaries at different stages of ovarian development, indicating their involvement in intraovarian reproductive functions. In the ovary, cell surface receptors allow growth factors to regulate intraovarian reproductive activities. Understanding these actions in the reproductive axis would provide a tool to target growth factors and/or their receptors to yield desirable reproductive outcomes. These include enrichment of in vitro maturation and fertilization culture media, and management of infertility. This review discusses some widely characterized growth factors belonging to the TGF, EGF, IGF, FGF, and BDNF family of peptides and their role in female reproduction in vertebrates, with a focus on mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chinelo N Uju
- Laboratory of Integrative Neuroendocrinology, Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Suraj Unniappan
- Laboratory of Integrative Neuroendocrinology, Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N 5B4, Canada.
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6
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Loncová B, Fabová Z, Mlynček M, Sirotkin AV. Assessment of Epiregulin Effect and its Combination with Gonadotropins on Proliferation, Apoptosis, and Secretory Activity by Human Ovarian Cells. Reprod Sci 2023:10.1007/s43032-023-01205-z. [PMID: 36881337 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01205-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
The release of epidermal growth factor ligand epiregulin (EREG) by human ovarian granulosa cells, its direct action on basic ovarian cell functions, and interrelationships with gonadotropins were investigated. We examined (1) the ovarian production of EREG (the time-dependent accumulation of EREG in the medium incubated with human ovarian granulosa cells, and (2) the effect of the addition of EREG (0, 1, 10, and 100 ng.ml-1) given alone or in combination with FSH or LH (100 ng.ml-1) on basic granulosa cells functions. Viability, proliferation (accumulation of PCNA and cyclin B1) and apoptosis (accumulation of bax and caspase 3), the release of steroid hormones (progesterone, testosterone, and estradiol), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) were analyzed by using the Trypan blue exclusion test, quantitative immunocytochemistry, and ELISA. A significant time-dependent accumulation of EREG in a medium cultured with human granulosa cells with a peak at 3 and 4 days was observed. The addition of EREG alone increased cell viability, proliferation, progesterone, testosterone, and estradiol release, decreased apoptosis, bud did not affect PGE2 release. The addition of either FSH or LH alone increased cell viability, proliferation, progesterone, testosterone, estradiol, and PGE2 release and decreased apoptosis. Furthermore, both FSH and LH mostly promoted the stimulatory action of EREG on granulosa cell functions. These results demonstrated, that EREG produced by ovarian cells can be an autocrine/paracrine stimulator of human ovarian cell functions. Furthermore, they demonstrate the functional interrelationship between EREG and gonadotropins in the control of ovarian functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbora Loncová
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Constantine the Philosopher University, Tr. A. Hlinku 1, 949 74, Nitra, Slovakia.
| | - Zuzana Fabová
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Constantine the Philosopher University, Tr. A. Hlinku 1, 949 74, Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Miloš Mlynček
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Constantine the Philosopher University, Tr. A. Hlinku 1, 949 74, Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Alexander V Sirotkin
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Constantine the Philosopher University, Tr. A. Hlinku 1, 949 74, Nitra, Slovakia
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Dual role of NR4A1 in porcine ovarian granulosa cell differentiation and granulosa-lutein cell regression in vitro. Theriogenology 2023; 198:292-304. [PMID: 36634443 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.01.001] [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: 07/16/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the role of NR4A1 in forskolin (FSK)-induced granulosa cell (GC) differentiation and PGF2α-induced granulosa-lutein cell (GLC) regression. For experiment 1, primary porcine GCs were pre-cultured for 6 d before induced-differentiation by FSK with or without siNR4A1, and changes in GC proliferation, lipid droplets (LDs), and P4 level were detected. For experiment 2, the GLC model was established by FSK as in experiment 1, and then PGF2α was utilized to induce GLC regression with or without siNR4A1, changes in P4 secretion, apoptosis proteins, and associated signaling pathway members were detected. Results showed that in experiment 1, FSK up-regulated NR4A1 expression during GC differentiation and decreased GC proliferation activity, which was reversed by siNR4A1. siNR4A1 inhibited the FSK-induced decreases in Cyclin B1/D1 and CDK1/2 mRNA abundances, and increases in P21/P27 mRNA abundances, and FSK-induced LD accumulation. FSK up-regulated P4 secretion and StAR, CYP11A1 and HSD3B expression, decreased CYP19A1 expression, which were reversed by siNR4A1 except for StAR expression. In experiment 2, PGF2α induced NR4A1 expression and reduced GLC viability, which were reversed by siNR4A1. Compared with PGF2α group, the levels of P4 secretion and StAR expression were higher in PGF2α+siNR4A1 group, while CYP11A1 and HSD3B expressions held at low levels. siNR4A1 inhibited PGF2α-induced expression of apoptosis proteins (caspase3, Bax, Fas, TNFa), ATF3, and phosphorylated MAPKs (ERK1/2, P38, JNK). In summary, NR4A1 is involved in regulating porcine GC differentiation and GLC regression as well as the changes in cell proliferation, apoptosis, steroidogenesis, and MAPK pathways, which provide a theoretical basis for further understanding of the mechanism of porcine luteal formation and regression.
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DEHP Decreases Steroidogenesis through the cAMP and ERK1/2 Signaling Pathways in FSH-Stimulated Human Granulosa Cells. Cells 2023; 12:cells12030398. [PMID: 36766740 PMCID: PMC9913623 DOI: 10.3390/cells12030398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
DEHP is an endocrine disruptor that interferes with the function of the female reproductive system. Several studies suggested that DEHP affects steroidogenesis in human and rodent granulosa cells (GC). Some studies have shown that DEHP can also affect the FSH-stimulated steroidogenesis in GC; however, the mechanism by which DEHP affects hormone-challenged steroidogenesis in human GC is not understood. Here, we analyzed the mechanism by which DEHP affects steroidogenesis in the primary culture of human cumulus granulosa cells (hCGC) stimulated with FSH. Cells were exposed to DEHP and FSH for 48 h, and steroidogenesis and the activation of cAMP and ERK1/2 were analyzed. The results show that DEHP decreases FSH-stimulated STAR and CYP19A1 expression, which is accompanied by a decrease in progesterone and estradiol production. DEHP lowers cAMP production and CREB phosphorylation in FSH but not cholera toxin- and forskolin-challenged hCGC. DEHP was not able to decrease steroidogenesis in cholera toxin- and forskolin-stimulated hCGC. Furthermore, DEHP decreases FSH-induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation. The addition of EGF rescued ERK1/2 phosphorylation in FSH- and DEHP-treated hCGC and prevented a decrease in steroidogenesis in the FSH- and DEHP-treated hCGC. These results suggest that DEHP inhibits the cAMP and ERK1/2 signaling pathways, leading to the inhibition of steroidogenesis in the FSH-stimulated hCGC.
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Mohammadi Yeganeh S, Nazarian H, Habibi B, Novin M, Salehpour S, Novin M. Expression analysis of genes and MicroRNAs involved in recurrent implantation failure: New noninvasive biomarkers of implantation. BIOMEDICAL AND BIOTECHNOLOGY RESEARCH JOURNAL (BBRJ) 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/bbrj.bbrj_246_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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10
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Buratini J, Dellaqua TT, Dal Canto M, La Marca A, Carone D, Mignini Renzini M, Webb R. The putative roles of FSH and AMH in the regulation of oocyte developmental competence: from fertility prognosis to mechanisms underlying age-related subfertility. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 28:232-254. [PMID: 34969065 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fertility loss during female ageing is associated with increasing basal FSH and decreasing anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) concentrations, together with compromised oocyte quality, presumably due to increased oxidative stress (OS) and DNA damage, as well as reduced metabolic and meiotic competences. Basal FSH and AMH circulatory concentrations have been broadly utilized as IVF success predictors, regardless of fluctuations in prognostic accuracy; basal FSH and AMH perform better in pre-advanced maternal age (AMA: >35 years) and AMA patients, respectively. The relationships between FSH and AMH intrafollicular levels and IVF outcomes suggest, nevertheless, that both hormones regulate oocyte competence, supporting the hypothesis that changes in FSH/AMH levels cause, at least in part, oocyte quality degradation during ageing. To understand the reasons behind the fluctuations in FSH and AMH prognostic accuracies and to clarify their participation in mechanisms determining oocyte competence and age-related subfertility, a deeper knowledge of the regulation of FSH and AMH intrafollicular signalling during the female reproductive lifespan, and of their effects on the cumulus-oocyte complex, is required. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE An extensive body of information on the regulation of FSH and AMH intrafollicular availability and signalling, as well as on the control of folliculogenesis and oocyte metabolism, has been accumulated. However, these datasets have been explored within the relatively narrow boundaries of their specific subjects. Given the aforementioned gaps in knowledge and their clinical relevance, herein we integrate clinical and basic data, within a wide biological perspective, aiming to shed light on (i) the reasons for the variability in the accuracy of serum FSH and AMH as fertility markers, and on (ii) the potential roles of these hormones in mechanisms regulating oocyte quality, particularly those associated with ageing. SEARCH METHODS The PubMed database encompassing the period between 1960 and 2021 was searched. Principal search terms were FSH, FSH receptor, AMH, oocyte, maternal age, cumulus, transzonal projections (TZPs), actin, OS, redox, reactive oxygen species, mitochondria, DNA damage, DNA repair, aneuploidy, spindle, meiosis, gene expression, transcription, translation, oocyte secreted factors (OSFs), cAMP, cyclic guanosine monophosphate, natriuretic peptide C, growth differentiation factor 9, bone morphogenetic protein 15 and fibroblast growth factor. OUTCOMES Our analysis suggests that variations in the accuracy of fertility prognosis reflect a modest association between circulatory AMH levels and oocyte quality as well as increasing basal FSH inter-cycle variability with age. In addition, the basic and clinical data articulated herein support the hypothesis that increased intrafollicular FSH levels, as maternal age advances, may override the physiological protective influences of AMH and OSFs against excessive FSH signalling in cumulus cells. This would result in the disruption of oocyte homeostasis via reduced TZP-mediated transfer of cumulus-derived molecules essential for meiotic competence, gene expression, redox activity and DNA repair. WIDER IMPLICATIONS In-depth data analysis, encompassing a wide biological perspective has revealed potential causative mechanisms of age-related subfertility triggered by alterations in FSH/AMH signalling during the female reproductive life. Insights from new mechanistic models arising from this analysis should contribute to advancing our comprehension of oocyte biology in humans and serve as a valuable reference for novel AMA subfertility treatments aimed at improving oocyte quality through the modulation of AMH/FSH action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Buratini
- Biogenesi Reproductive Medicine Centre-Eugin Group, Istituti Clinici Zucchi, Monza, Italy.,Clinica Eugin Modena, Modena, Italy.,Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Sao Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Thaisy Tino Dellaqua
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Sao Paulo State University, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Mariabeatrice Dal Canto
- Biogenesi Reproductive Medicine Centre-Eugin Group, Istituti Clinici Zucchi, Monza, Italy.,Clinica Eugin Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonio La Marca
- Clinica Eugin Modena, Modena, Italy.,Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of the Mother, Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | | | - Mario Mignini Renzini
- Biogenesi Reproductive Medicine Centre-Eugin Group, Istituti Clinici Zucchi, Monza, Italy.,Clinica Eugin Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Robert Webb
- Division of Animal Sciences, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, UK
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Polymorphism of OPN and AREG Genes in Relation to Transcript Expression of a Panel of 12 Genes Controlling Reproduction Processes and Litter Size in Pigs. ANNALS OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.2478/aoas-2021-0005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
The aim of this study was to define the transcript expression of 12 genes, identify new polymorphisms in selected 2 genes and to estimate the association between the level of expression, gene polymorphism and litter size in sows. Two groups of sows were selected: 71 crossbred sows and 328 purebred sows. For transcript analysis endometrial tissue samples were collected, while blood was sampled for the purpose of DNA polymorphism analysis. For all animals data on litter size and weaned piglets were obtained. Transcript analysis of 12 genes was performed in the uterine endometrium of sows in the luteal and follicular phases. Eight out of 12 genes showed higher mRNA expression levels during the luteal phase (AREG, FABP3, IL1A, ITGAV, ITGB3, NMB, OPN, RBP4). In turn, higher expression levels in the follicular phase were observed for 4 genes (IL1B, PPARG, S100A8, SELL). Analysis of six new polymorphic sites within the OPN and AREG genes revealed the highest heterozygosity for OPNe6_Knoll, OPNp3_617 and AREGe2_317 polymorphisms and the lowest heterozygosity in the AREGe3_561 locus. Association analyses concerning transcript expression levels of the 12 genes and the OPN and AREG genotypes in the two groups of sows showed a significant relationship between the IL1A, ITGB3 transcript expression and the OPNe7_603 genotype also between OPNp3_617 genotype and ITGB3 transcript expression. With regard to the litter size and the number of weaned piglets a significant relation with the OPNp3_617, OPNe6_462 and AREGe2_317 genotypes was observed only in the purebred sows. Transcript expression of the genes encoding osteopontin and amphiregulin in the uterus of the sows affect reproductive traits by preparing the uterus for embryo reception.
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Fernandes CADC, Lopes AC, Gonçalves FC, Pereira JR, Guimarães JPDA, Castilho ACDS, Caixeta ES. Improvement in early antral follicle development and gene expression modulation prior to follicle aspiration in bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes by equine chorionic gonadotropin. Theriogenology 2021; 172:281-288. [PMID: 34303227 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to evaluate the morphological ovarian response to equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) prior to ovum pick-up (OPU) and its effects on the molecular phenotype of immature cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) from Nelore cow (Bos indicus) donors. To this end, 20 Nelore cows were distributed randomly into the synchronized-OPU (Sync-OPU) and synchronized plus stimulated-OPU (Sync + eCG-OPU) groups using a cross-over experimental design, as each cow was used in both treatments. On a random day of the estrus cycle (Day 0), all cows received an intravaginal implant with 1.0 g of progesterone and 2 mg IM of estradiol benzoate. On the morning of Day 3, only the Sync + eCG-OPU group received 400 IU of eCG IM. On the morning of Day 5, the P4 device was removed and OPU was conducted in both groups. Before OPU management, ultrasonography was used to identify and measure the follicles. The aspirated COCs were morphologically classified based on their cumulus cells (CC) layers and the texture of the ooplasm. The COCs classified as Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3 were considered viable and used for the assessment of quality markers. Oocytes and CC were mechanically separated from pools of 25 immature COCs of the Sync-OPU and Sync + eCG-OPU groups immediately after the follicular aspiration and stored at -80 °C until RNA extraction. Relative quantification of several markers for oocyte quality was assessed by RT-qPCR. The eCG treatment increased the number of follicles sized 3.0-5.0 mm and >5.0 mm compared to that in Sync-OPU group. Moreover, the protocol with eCG improved the total number of oocytes and the number of viable oocytes, which is related to a high number of oocytes in Grade 3. Regarding the impact on transcriptional regulation in immature oocytes, the mRNA encoding BMP15, SMAD1, SMAD2, SMAD3, ACACA, and CPT1A was upregulated in Sync + eCG-OPU compared with the Sync-OPU group. Moreover, the relative mRNA abundance of CTSZ, a member of the cathepsins family functionally related to reduced oocyte competence, was lower in the Sync + eCG-OPU group than in the Sync-OPU group. In addition, CC CTSB, CTSS, and CTSK mRNA abundances were lower in the Sync + eCG-OPU group than in the Sync-OPU group. However, the relative abundance of AREG and EREG mRNA was higher in CC recovered from cows stimulated with eCG. In conclusion, the eCG approach addressing follicular stimulation in Nelore cows had a positive impact on early antral follicle development, followed by a positive morphological and molecular phenotype in bovine COCs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Asafe Costa Lopes
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Federal University of Alfenas, Alfenas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Felipe Costa Gonçalves
- Department of Animal Reproduction, University of José Rosário Vellano, Alfenas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Jessica Ruiz Pereira
- Department of Animal Reproduction, University of José Rosário Vellano, Alfenas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | | | - Ester Siqueira Caixeta
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Federal University of Alfenas, Alfenas, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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Abstract
Gonadotropins are glycoprotein sex hormones regulating development and reproduction and bind to specific G protein–coupled receptors expressed in the gonads. Their effects on multiple signaling cascades and intracellular events have recently been characterized using novel technological and scientific tools. The impact of allosteric modulators on gonadotropin signaling, the role of sugars linked to the hormone backbone, the detection of endosomal compartments supporting signaling modules, and the dissection of different effects mediated by these molecules are areas that have advanced significantly in the last decade. The classic view providing the exclusive activation of the cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA) and the steroidogenic pathway by these hormones has been expanded with the addition of novel signaling cascades as determined by high-resolution imaging techniques. These new findings provided new potential therapeutic applications. Despite these improvements, unanswered issues of gonadotropin physiology, such as the intrinsic pro-apoptotic potential to these hormones, the existence of receptors assembled as heteromers, and their expression in extragonadal tissues, remain to be studied. Elucidating these issues is a challenge for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livio Casarini
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
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Lundberg PS, Moskowitz GJ, Bellacose C, Demirel E, Trau HA, Duffy DM. Granulosa cell proliferation is inhibited by PGE2 in the primate ovulatory follicle. Anim Cells Syst (Seoul) 2020; 24:125-135. [PMID: 33209192 PMCID: PMC7651849 DOI: 10.1080/19768354.2020.1764385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is a key paracrine mediator of ovulation. Few specific PGE2-regulated gene products have been identified, so we hypothesized that PGE2 may regulate the expression and/or activity of a network of proteins to promote ovulation. To test this concept, Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) was used to predict PGE2-regulated functionalities in the primate ovulatory follicle. Cynomolgus macaques underwent ovarian stimulation. Follicular granulosa cells were obtained before (0 h) or 36 h after an ovulatory dose of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), with ovulation anticipated 37–40 h after hCG. Granulosa cells were obtained from additional monkeys 36 h after treatment with hCG and the PTGS2 inhibitor celecoxib, which significantly reduced hCG-stimulated follicular prostaglandin synthesis. Granulosa cell RNA expression was determined by microarray and analyzed using IPA. No granulosa cell mRNAs were identified as being significantly up-regulated or down-regulated by hCG + celecoxib compared with hCG only. However, IPA predicted that prostaglandin depletion significantly regulated several functional pathways. Cell cycle/cell proliferation was selected for further study because decreased granulosa cell proliferation is known to be necessary for ovulation and formation of a fully-functional corpus luteum. Prospective in vivo and in vitro experiments confirmed the prediction that hCG-stimulated cessation of granulosa cell proliferation is mediated via PGE2. Our studies indicate that PGE2 provides critical regulation of granulosa cell proliferation through mechanisms that do not involve significant regulation of mRNA levels of key cell cycle regulators. Pathway analysis correctly predicted that PGE2 serves as a paracrine mediator of this important transition in ovarian structure and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patric S Lundberg
- Department of Microbiology and Medical Molecular Biology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Gil J Moskowitz
- Department of Department of Computer Science, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Carmel Bellacose
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Esra Demirel
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Heidi A Trau
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Diane M Duffy
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
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15
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New markers of human cumulus oophorus cells cultured in vitro – transcriptomic profile. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.2478/acb-2020-0007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
The presence of CCs around the oocyte after ovulation is one of the key elements contributing to oocyte developmental competence. In the presented study, we used CCs from 12 patients aged 18-40 diagnosed with infertility. After harvesting cells on day 1, 7, 15 and 30 of culture, total RNA was isolated and transcriptomic analysis was performed. The DAVID software indicated the following GO BP terms: “cell junction organization”, “cell migration”, “cell morphogenesis involved in differentiation”, “cell morphogenesis” and “cell motility”. Of the genes belonging to all ontological groups, the most downregulated were: SLC7A8, DFNB31, COL1A1, CDC42SE1, TGFBR3, HMGB1, with the most upregulated genes being: ANXA3, KIAA1199, HTR2B, VCAM1, DKK1.
While many studies focus on attempts to obtain fully competent oocytes, scientists still have difficulty attaining adequate results in vitro. Lack of adequate knowledge often results in low in vitro fertilization efficiency. Therefore, our research focuses on CCs cells, thanks to which the oocyte most likely acquires developmental competence. The main purpose of the study was to identify the potential molecular markers responsible for cell junction organization, migration, differentiation, morphogenesis and motility.
Running title: New markers of human cumulus oophorus cells cultured in vitro
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Luteinizing Hormone Action in Human Oocyte Maturation and Quality: Signaling Pathways, Regulation, and Clinical Impact. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:1223-1252. [PMID: 32046451 PMCID: PMC7190682 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-019-00137-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The ovarian follicle luteinizing hormone (LH) signaling molecules that regulate oocyte meiotic maturation have recently been identified. The LH signal reduces preovulatory follicle cyclic nucleotide levels which releases oocytes from the first meiotic arrest. In the ovarian follicle, the LH signal reduces cyclic nucleotide levels via the CNP/NPR2 system, the EGF/EGF receptor network, and follicle/oocyte gap junctions. In the oocyte, reduced cyclic nucleotide levels activate the maturation promoting factor (MPF). The activated MPF induces chromosome segregation and completion of the first and second meiotic divisions. The purpose of this paper is to present an overview of the current understanding of human LH signaling regulation of oocyte meiotic maturation by identifying and integrating the human studies on this topic. We found 89 human studies in the literature that identified 24 LH follicle/oocyte signaling proteins. These studies show that human oocyte meiotic maturation is regulated by the same proteins that regulate animal oocyte meiotic maturation. We also found that these LH signaling pathway molecules regulate human oocyte quality and subsequent embryo quality. Remarkably, in vitro maturation (IVM) prematuration culture (PMC) protocols that manipulate the LH signaling pathway improve human oocyte quality of cultured human oocytes. This knowledge has improved clinical human IVM efficiency which may become a routine alternative ART for some infertile patients.
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Weathington N, O’Brien ME, Radder J, Whisenant TC, Bleecker ER, Busse WW, Erzurum SC, Gaston B, Hastie AT, Jarjour NN, Meyers DA, Milosevic J, Moore WC, Tedrow JR, Trudeau JB, Wong HP, Wu W, Kaminski N, Wenzel SE, Modena BD. BAL Cell Gene Expression in Severe Asthma Reveals Mechanisms of Severe Disease and Influences of Medications. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2019; 200:837-856. [PMID: 31161938 PMCID: PMC6812436 DOI: 10.1164/rccm.201811-2221oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Gene expression of BAL cells, which samples the cellular milieu within the lower respiratory tract, has not been well studied in severe asthma.Objectives: To identify new biomolecular mechanisms underlying severe asthma by an unbiased, detailed interrogation of global gene expression.Methods: BAL cell expression was profiled in 154 asthma and control subjects. Of these participants, 100 had accompanying airway epithelial cell gene expression. BAL cell expression profiles were related to participant (age, sex, race, and medication) and sample traits (cell proportions), and then severity-related gene expression determined by correlating transcripts and coexpression networks to lung function, emergency department visits or hospitalizations in the last year, medication use, and quality-of-life scores.Measurements and Main Results: Age, sex, race, cell proportions, and medications strongly influenced BAL cell gene expression, but leading severity-related genes could be determined by carefully identifying and accounting for these influences. A BAL cell expression network enriched for cAMP signaling components most differentiated subjects with severe asthma from other subjects. Subsequently, an in vitro cellular model showed this phenomenon was likely caused by a robust upregulation in cAMP-related expression in nonsevere and β-agonist-naive subjects given a β-agonist before cell collection. Interestingly, ELISAs performed on BAL lysates showed protein levels may partly disagree with expression changes.Conclusions: Gene expression in BAL cells is influenced by factors seldomly considered. Notably, β-agonist exposure likely had a strong and immediate impact on cellular gene expression, which may not translate to important disease mechanisms or necessarily match protein levels. Leading severity-related genes were discovered in an unbiased, system-wide analysis, revealing new targets that map to asthma susceptibility loci.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel Weathington
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Michael E. O’Brien
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Josiah Radder
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Thomas C. Whisenant
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California
| | - Eugene R. Bleecker
- Division of Genetics, Genomics and Precision Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
| | - William W. Busse
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Serpil C. Erzurum
- Lerner Research Institute, Respiratory Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Benjamin Gaston
- Division of Pediatric Pulmonary, Allergy and Immunology, Case Western Reserve University and Rainbow Babies Children’s Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Annette T. Hastie
- Section on Pulmonary, Critical Care, Allergy and Immunologic Diseases, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Nizar N. Jarjour
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Deborah A. Meyers
- Division of Genetics, Genomics and Precision Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Jadranka Milosevic
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Wendy C. Moore
- Section on Pulmonary, Critical Care, Allergy and Immunologic Diseases, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - John R. Tedrow
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - John B. Trudeau
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Hesper P. Wong
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Wei Wu
- Computational Biology Department, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Naftali Kaminski
- Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Sally E. Wenzel
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and
| | - Brian D. Modena
- Division of Allergy, National Jewish Hospital, Denver, Colorado
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Liu Y, Li HR, Yu JJ, Li FX. Induction of tumor suppressor KCTD11 during periovulatory period in rat ovary. Reprod Biol 2019; 19:173-178. [PMID: 31151753 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2019.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The tumor suppressor gene KCTD11 plays a critical role in cell proliferation, differentiation and invasion. The current study investigated the regulation and the spatiotemporal expression pattern of Kctd11 in the rat ovary during the periovulatory period. Ovaries, granulosa cells, or theca-interstitial cells were collected at various times after hCG administration using an established gonadotropin-primed immature rat model that induces follicular development and ovulation. Real-time quantitative PCR analysis revealed that mRNA for Kctd11 was significantly induced both in theca-intersititial and granulosa cells after hCG treatment although their temporal expression patterns differed. In situ hybridization analysis demonstrated that Kctd11 mRNA expression was induced in theca-intersititial cells at 6 h after hCG, and the expression remained elevated until 12 h after hCG. Kctd11 mRNA was stimulated in granulosa cells at 6 h and reached the highest expression at 12 h. There was negligible Kctd11 mRNA signal observed in newly forming corpora lutea. In addition, the data indicate that both the protein kinase A and the protein kinase C pathway regulate the expression of Kctd11 mRNA in granulosa cells. Either forskolin or phorbol 12 myristate 13-acetate can mimic hCG induction of Kctd11 expression. Furthermore, the stimulation of Kctd11 by hCG requires new protein synthesis. Inhibition of progesterone action and the EGF pathway blocked Kctd11 mRNA expression, whereas inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis had no effect. Our finding suggest that the induction of the Kctd11 may be important for theca and granulosa cell differentiation into luteal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Liu
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Organ Development and Regeneration, Institute of Developmental and Regenerative Biology, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao-Ran Li
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Organ Development and Regeneration, Institute of Developmental and Regenerative Biology, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiao-Jiao Yu
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Organ Development and Regeneration, Institute of Developmental and Regenerative Biology, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei-Xue Li
- Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Organ Development and Regeneration, Institute of Developmental and Regenerative Biology, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, People's Republic of China.
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Mitochondrial function in immature bovine oocytes is improved by an increase of cellular cyclic AMP. Sci Rep 2019; 9:5167. [PMID: 30914704 PMCID: PMC6435665 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-41610-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Although in vitro maturation (IVM) of oocytes is important for assisted reproduction, the rate of development of embryos from IVM oocytes is lower than from their in vivo counterparts. It has been shown that an artificial increase of intracellular cAMP before culture significantly improves oocyte developmental competence in cattle and mice. Here, we revealed that forskolin and 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine treatment of prophase-stage oocytes induced the expression of genes required for glycolysis, fatty acid degradation, and the mitochondrial electron transport system and improved mitochondrial functions and ATP levels in oocytes without involving nuclear maturation. We propose the existence of a comprehensive energy-supply system in oocytes under follicle-stimulating hormone stimulation as a potential explanation of how oocytes acquire developmental competence.
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Ophir L, Yung Y, Yerushalmi GM, Baum M, Machtinger R, Maman E, Hourvitz A. An optimized model for hCG stimulation of human mural granulosa cell culture. Reprod Biol 2019; 19:67-74. [PMID: 30661769 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2019.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Revised: 01/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian follicular development and ovulation in mammals is a highly-regulated process. Most of the current knowledge of ovarian processes was obtained from the studies of non-human models. Molecular studies on human ovarian processes suffer from lack of material and appropriate research tools. Mural granulosa cells (MGCs) culture is a major tool for studying the effect of different substances but a major problem for using these primary MGCs is their unresponsiveness to hCG stimulation at the time of oocyte retrieval. It is acceptable that MGCs regain responsiveness during days in culture but when the best time is and how to accelerate the regenerative process are unknown. The aim of the current study was to establish an optimized protocol which will provide a practical and efficient tool to examine the effect of LH/hCG on different downstream targets in luteinized MGCs. hCG effects were examined according to days in culture and hCG stimulation time. As read-out, we analyzed the gene expression of known hCG targets, protein production, and progesterone secretion. Our results show that with a daily medium exchange, the strongest effect was achieved already 4 days after seeding. On day 4, hCG stimulation triggers two major patterns of gene expression. Early induced genes were highly expressed 6-8 h after hCG, while 24 h of hCG stimulation was needed for late induced genes. Based on our results, we suggest daily medium exchange for 4 days before adding hCG and examine its effect 6 and 24 h later.
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Affiliation(s)
- Libby Ophir
- IVF Unit and Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yuval Yung
- IVF Unit and Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Gil Mordechai Yerushalmi
- IVF Unit and Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Micha Baum
- IVF Unit and Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ronit Machtinger
- IVF Unit and Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ettie Maman
- IVF Unit and Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ariel Hourvitz
- IVF Unit and Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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21
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Niringiyumukiza JD, Cai H, Xiang W. Prostaglandin E2 involvement in mammalian female fertility: ovulation, fertilization, embryo development and early implantation. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2018; 16:43. [PMID: 29716588 PMCID: PMC5928575 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-018-0359-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility in mammalian females has been a challenge in reproductive medicine. The causes of female infertility include anovulation, ovulated oocyte defects, abnormal fertilization, and insufficient luteal support for embryo development, as well as early implantation. Ovulation induction, in vitro fertilization and luteal support regimens have been performed for decades to increase fertility rates. The identification of proteins and biochemical factors involved in female reproduction is essential to further increase female fertility rates. Evidence has shown that prostaglandins (PGs) might be involved in the female reproductive process, mainly ovulation, fertilization, and implantation. However, only a few studies on individual PGs in female reproduction have been done so far. This review aimed to identify the pivotal role of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), a predominant PG, in female reproduction to improve fertility, specifically ovulation, fertilization, embryo development and early implantation. RESULTS Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) was shown to play a relevant role in the ovulatory cascade, including meiotic maturation, cumulus expansion and follicle rupture, through inducing ovulatory genes, such as Areg, Ereg, Has2 and Tnfaip6, as well as increasing intracellular cAMP levels. PGE2 reduces extracellular matrix viscosity and thereby optimizes the conditions for sperm penetration. PGE2 reduces the phagocytic activity of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) against sperm. In the presence of PGE2, sperm function and binding capacity to oocytes are enhanced. PGE2 maintains luteal function for embryo development and early implantation. In addition, it induces chemokine expression for trophoblast apposition and adhesion to the decidua for implantation. CONCLUSION It has been shown that PGE2 positively affects different stages of female fertility. Therefore, PGE2 should be taken into consideration when optimizing reproduction in infertile females. We suggest that in clinical practice, the administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which are PGE2 synthesis inhibitors, should be reasonable and limited in infertile women. Additionally, assessments of PGE2 protein and receptor expression levels should be taken into consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Damascene Niringiyumukiza
- 0000 0004 0368 7223grid.33199.31Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 Hubei China
| | - Hongcai Cai
- 0000 0004 0368 7223grid.33199.31Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 Hubei China
| | - Wenpei Xiang
- 0000 0004 0368 7223grid.33199.31Family Planning Research Institute/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 Hubei China
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Richani D, Gilchrist RB. The epidermal growth factor network: role in oocyte growth, maturation and developmental competence. Hum Reprod Update 2018; 24:1-14. [PMID: 29029246 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmx029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The LH surge induces great physiological changes within the preovulatory follicle, which culminate in the ovulation of a mature oocyte that is capable of supporting embryo and foetal development. However, unlike mural granulosa cells, the oocyte and its surrounding cumulus cells are not directly responsive to LH, indicating that the LH signal is mediated by secondary factors produced by the granulosa cells. The mechanisms by which the oocyte senses the ovulatory LH signal and hence prepares for ovulation has been a subject of considerable controversy for the past four decades. Within the last 15 years several significant insights have been made into the molecular mechanisms orchestrating oocyte development, maturation and ovulation. These findings centre on the epidermal growth factor (EGF) pathway and the role it plays in the complex signalling network that finely regulates oocyte maturation and ovulation. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review outlines the role of the EGF network during oocyte development and regulation of the ovulatory cascade, and in particular focuses on the effect of the EGF network on oocyte developmental competence. Application of this new knowledge to advances in ART is examined. SEARCH METHODS The PubMed database was used to search for peer-reviewed original and review articles concerning the EGF network. Publications offering a comprehensive description of the role of the EGF network in follicle and oocyte development were used. OUTCOMES It is now clear that acute upregulation of the EGF network is an essential component of the ovulatory cascade as it transmits the LH signal from the periphery of the follicle to the cumulus-oocyte complex (COC). More recent findings have elucidated new roles for the EGF network in the regulation of oocyte development. EGF signalling downregulates the somatic signal 3'5'-cyclic guanine monophosphate that suppresses oocyte meiotic maturation and simultaneously provides meiotic inducing signals. The EGF network also controls translation of maternal transcripts in the quiescent oocyte, a process that is integral to oocyte competence. As a means of restricting the ovulatory signal to the Graffian follicle, most COCs in the ovary are unresponsive to EGF-ligands. Recent studies have revealed that development of a functional EGF signalling network in cumulus cells requires dual endocrine (FSH) and oocyte paracrine cues (growth differentiation factor 9 and bone morphogenetic protein 15), and this occurs progressively in COCs during the last stages of folliculogenesis. Hence, a new concept to emerge is that cumulus cell acquisition of EGF receptor responsiveness represents a developmental hallmark in folliculogenesis, analogous to FSH-induction of LH receptor signalling in mural granulosa cells. Likewise, this event represents a major milestone in the oocyte's developmental progression and acquisition of developmental competence. It is now clear that EGF signalling is perturbed in COCs matured in vitro. This has inspired novel concepts in IVM systems to ameliorate this perturbation, resulting in improved oocyte developmental competence. WIDER IMPLICATIONS An oocyte of high quality is imperative for fertility. Elucidating the fundamental molecular and cellular mechanims by which the EGF network regulates oocyte maturation and ovulation can be expected to open new opportunities in ART. This knowledge has already led to advances in oocyte IVM in animal models. Translation of such advances into a clinical setting should increase the efficacy of IVM, making it a viable treatment option for a wide range of patients, thereby simplifying fertility treatment and bringing substantial cost and health benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dulama Richani
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of New South Wales Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Robert B Gilchrist
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of New South Wales Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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Santi D, Potì F, Simoni M, Casarini L. Pharmacogenetics of G-protein-coupled receptors variants: FSH receptor and infertility treatment. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2018; 32:189-200. [PMID: 29678285 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2018.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Infertility treatment may represent a paradigmatic example of precision medicine. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) has been proposed as a valuable therapeutic option both in males and in females, even if a standardized approach is far to be established. To date, several genetic mutations as well as polymorphisms have been demonstrated to significantly affect the pathophysiology of FSH-FSH receptor (FSHR) interaction, although the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. This review aims to highlight possible aspects of FSH therapy that could benefit from a pharmacogenetic approach, providing an up-to-date overview of the variability of the response to FSH treatment in both sexes. Specific sections are dedicated to the clinical use of FSH in infertility and how FSHR polymorphisms may affect the therapeutic endpoints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy; Department of Medicine, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Italy.
| | - Francesco Potì
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy; Department of Medicine, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Italy
| | - Livio Casarini
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy; Department of Medicine, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Modena, Italy
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24
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Prochazka R, Blaha M, Němcová L. Significance of epidermal growth factor receptor signaling for acquisition of meiotic and developmental competence in mammalian oocytes†. Biol Reprod 2017; 97:537-549. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
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25
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Dibutyl phthalate impairs steroidogenesis and a subset of LH-dependent genes in cultured human mural granulosa cell in vitro. Reprod Toxicol 2017; 69:13-18. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2016.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Revised: 11/29/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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26
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Puttabyatappa M, Al-Alem LF, Zakerkish F, Rosewell KL, Brännström M, Curry TE. Induction of Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibitor 2 by hCG Regulates Periovulatory Gene Expression and Plasmin Activity. Endocrinology 2017; 158:109-120. [PMID: 27813674 PMCID: PMC5412983 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Increased proteolytic activity is a key event that aids in breakdown of the follicular wall to permit oocyte release. How the protease activity is regulated is still unknown. We hypothesize that tissue factor pathway inhibitor 2 (TFPI2), a Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitor, plays a role in regulating periovulatory proteolytic activity as in other tissues. TFPI2 is secreted into the extracellular matrix (ECM) where it is postulated to regulate physiological ECM remodeling. The expression profile of TFPI2 during the periovulatory period was assessed utilizing a well-characterized human menstrual cycle model and a gonadotropin-primed rat model. Administration of an ovulatory dose of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) increased TFPI2 expression dramatically in human and rat granulosa and theca cells. This increase in Tfpi2 expression in rat granulosa cells required hCG-mediated epidermal growth factor, protein kinase A, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) 1/2, p38 MAPK and protease activated receptor 1-dependent cell signaling. A small interferingRNA-mediated knockdown of TFPI2 in rat granulosa cells resulted in increased plasmin activity in the granulosa cell conditioned media. Knockdown of TFPI2 also reduced expression of multiple genes including interleukin 6 (Il6) and amphiregulin (Areg). Overexpression of TFPI2 using an adenoviral vector partially restored the expression of Il6 and Areg in TFPI2 siRNA treated rat granulosa cells. These data support the hypothesis that TFPI2 is important for moderating plasmin activity and regulating granulosa cell gene expression during the periovulatory period. We, therefore, propose that through these actions, TFPI2 aids in the tissue remodeling taking place during follicular rupture and corpus luteum formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muraly Puttabyatappa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chandler Medical Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536; and
| | - Linah F. Al-Alem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chandler Medical Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536; and
| | - Farnosh Zakerkish
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Gothenburg, and Stockholm IVF, Gothenburg, Sweden SE 405 30
| | - Katherine L. Rosewell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chandler Medical Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536; and
| | - Mats Brännström
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Gothenburg, and Stockholm IVF, Gothenburg, Sweden SE 405 30
| | - Thomas E. Curry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chandler Medical Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536; and
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27
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Xu J, Mukerjee S, Silva-Alves CRA, Carvalho-Galvão A, Cruz JC, Balarini CM, Braga VA, Lazartigues E, França-Silva MS. A Disintegrin and Metalloprotease 17 in the Cardiovascular and Central Nervous Systems. Front Physiol 2016; 7:469. [PMID: 27803674 PMCID: PMC5067531 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2016.00469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
ADAM17 is a metalloprotease and disintegrin that lodges in the plasmatic membrane of several cell types and is able to cleave a wide variety of cell surface proteins. It is somatically expressed in mammalian organisms and its proteolytic action influences several physiological and pathological processes. This review focuses on the structure of ADAM17, its signaling in the cardiovascular system and its participation in certain disorders involving the heart, blood vessels, and neural regulation of autonomic and cardiovascular modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxi Xu
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics and Cardiovascular Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Snigdha Mukerjee
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics and Cardiovascular Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New Orleans, LA, USA
| | | | | | - Josiane C Cruz
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Camille M Balarini
- Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal da Paraíba João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Valdir A Braga
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal da Paraíba João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Eric Lazartigues
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics and Cardiovascular Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New Orleans, LA, USA
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28
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Fang L, Yu Y, Zhang R, He J, Sun YP. Amphiregulin mediates hCG-induced StAR expression and progesterone production in human granulosa cells. Sci Rep 2016; 6:24917. [PMID: 27113901 PMCID: PMC4845069 DOI: 10.1038/srep24917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Progesterone plays critical roles in maintaining a successful pregnancy at the early embryonic stage. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) rapidly induces amphiregulin (AREG) expression. However, it remains unknown whether AREG mediates hCG-induced progesterone production. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the role of AREG in hCG-induced progesterone production and the underlying molecular mechanism in human granulosa cells; primary cells were used as the experimental model. We demonstrated that the inhibition of EGFR and the knockdown of AREG abolished hCG-induced steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) expression and progesterone production. Importantly, follicular fluid AREG levels were positively correlated with progesterone levels in the follicular fluid and serum. Treatment with AREG increased StAR expression and progesterone production, and these stimulatory effects were abolished by EGFR inhibition. Moreover, activation of ERK1/2, but not PI3K/Akt, signaling was required for the AREG-induced up-regulation of StAR expression and progesterone production. Our results demonstrate that AREG mediates hCG-induced StAR expression and progesterone production in human granulosa cells, providing novel evidence for the role of AREG in the regulation of steroidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanlan Fang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Yiping Yu
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Ruizhe Zhang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Jingyan He
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Ying-Pu Sun
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
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29
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Casarini L, Riccetti L, De Pascali F, Nicoli A, Tagliavini S, Trenti T, La Sala GB, Simoni M. Follicle-stimulating hormone potentiates the steroidogenic activity of chorionic gonadotropin and the anti-apoptotic activity of luteinizing hormone in human granulosa-lutein cells in vitro. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 422:103-114. [PMID: 26690776 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2015] [Revised: 12/07/2015] [Accepted: 12/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Luteinizing hormone (LH) and choriogonadotropin (hCG) are glycoprotein hormones regulating ovarian function and pregnancy, respectively. Since these molecules act on the same receptor (LHCGR), they were traditionally assumed as equivalent in assisted reproduction techniques (ART), although differences between LH and hCG were demonstrated at molecular and physiological level. In this study, we demonstrated for the first time that co-treatment with a follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) dose in the ART therapeutic range potentiates different LH- and hCG-dependent responses in vitro, measured in terms of cAMP, phospho-CREB, -ERK1/2 and -AKT activation, gene expression, progesterone and estradiol production in human granulosa-lutein cells (hGLC). We show that in the presence of FSH, hCG biopotency is about 5-fold increased, in the presence of FSH, in terms of cAMP activation. Accordingly, CREB phosphorylation and steroid production is increased under hCG and FSH co-treatment. LH effects, evaluated as steroidogenic cAMP/PKA pathway activation, do not change in the presence of FSH, which, however, increases LH-dependent ERK1/2 and AKT, but not CREB phosphorylation, resulting in anti-apoptotic effects. The different modulatory activity of FSH on LH and hCG action in vitro corresponds to their different physiological functions, reflecting proliferative effects exerted by LH during the follicular phase and before trophoblast development, and the high steroidogenic potential of hCG requested to sustain pregnancy from the luteal phase onwards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livio Casarini
- Unit of Endocrinology, Dept. Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Center for the Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Laura Riccetti
- Unit of Endocrinology, Dept. Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesco De Pascali
- Unit of Endocrinology, Dept. Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alessia Nicoli
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS-Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | | | | | - Giovanni Battista La Sala
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS-Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy; Dept. of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Dept. Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Center for the Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Dept. of Medicine, Endocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda USL, Modena, Italy
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30
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Bar-Joseph H, Ben-Ami I, Ron-El R, Shalgi R, Chuderland D. Pigment epithelium-derived factor regulation by human chorionic gonadotropin in granulosa cells. Reproduction 2016; 151:179-85. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-15-0478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2015] [Accepted: 11/26/2015] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a known trigger of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), a potentially life-threatening complication of assisted reproduction. Administration of hCG results in the release of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) from the ovary. We have previously shown that expression of pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) in granulosa cell line is regulated by hCG, reciprocally to VEGF, and that the PEDF–VEGF balance is impaired in OHSS. Our aim was to explore the signaling network by which hCG downregulates the expression of PEDF mRNA and protein in granulosa cells. We applied specific chemical inhibitors and stimuli to human primary granulosa cells and rat granulosa cell line. We found that PKA and protein kinase C, as well as EGFR, ERK1/2 and PI3K, participate in the signaling network. The finding that hCG-induced PEDF downregulation and VEGF upregulation are mediated by similar signaling cascades emphasizes the delicate regulation of ovarian angiogenesis.
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31
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Yang CR, Lowther KM, Lalioti MD, Seli E. Embryonic Poly(A)-Binding Protein (EPAB) Is Required for Granulosa Cell EGF Signaling and Cumulus Expansion in Female Mice. Endocrinology 2016; 157:405-16. [PMID: 26492470 PMCID: PMC4701890 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-1135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Embryonic poly(A)-binding protein (EPAB) is the predominant poly(A)-binding protein in Xenopus, mouse, and human oocytes and early embryos before zygotic genome activation. EPAB is required for translational activation of maternally stored mRNAs in the oocyte and Epab(-/-) female mice are infertile due to impaired oocyte maturation, cumulus expansion, and ovulation. The aim of this study was to characterize the mechanism of follicular somatic cell dysfunction in Epab(-/-) mice. Using a coculture system of oocytectomized cumulus oophorus complexes (OOXs) with denuded oocytes, we found that when wild-type OOXs were cocultured with Epab(-/-) oocytes, or when Epab(-/-) OOXs were cocultured with WT oocytes, cumulus expansion failed to occur in response to epidermal growth factor (EGF). This finding suggests that oocytes and cumulus cells (CCs) from Epab(-/-) mice fail to send and receive the necessary signals required for cumulus expansion. The abnormalities in Epab(-/-) CCs are not due to lower expression of the oocyte-derived factors growth differentiation factor 9 or bone morphogenetic protein 15, because Epab(-/-) oocytes express these proteins at comparable levels with WT. Epab(-/-) granulosa cells (GCs) exhibit decreased levels of phosphorylated MEK1/2, ERK1/2, and p90 ribosomal S6 kinase in response to lutenizing hormone and EGF treatment, as well as decreased phosphorylation of the EGF receptor. In conclusion, EPAB, which is oocyte specific, is required for the ability of CCs and GCs to become responsive to LH and EGF signaling. These results emphasize the importance of oocyte-somatic communication for GC and CC function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cai-Rong Yang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510
| | - Katie M Lowther
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510
| | - Maria D Lalioti
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510
| | - Emre Seli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510
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Al-Alem L, Puttabyatappa M, Rosewell K, Brännström M, Akin J, Boldt J, Muse K, Curry TE. Chemokine Ligand 20: A Signal for Leukocyte Recruitment During Human Ovulation? Endocrinology 2015; 156:3358-69. [PMID: 26125463 PMCID: PMC4541627 DOI: 10.1210/en.2014-1874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Ovulation is one of the cornerstones of female fertility. Disruption of the ovulatory process results in infertility, which affects approximately 10% of couples. Using a unique model in which the dominant follicle is collected across the periovulatory period in women, we have identified a leukocyte chemoattractant, chemokine ligand 20 (CCL20), in the human ovary. CCL20 mRNA is massively induced after an in vivo human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) stimulus in granulosa (>10 000-fold) and theca (>4000-fold) cells collected during the early ovulatory (12-18 h) and late ovulatory (18-34 h) periods after hCG administration. Because the LH surge sets in motion an inflammatory reaction characterized by an influx of leukocytes and CCL20 is known to recruit leukocytes in other systems, the composition of ovarian leukocytes (CD45+) containing the CCL20 receptor CCR6 was determined immediately prior to ovulation. CD45+/CCR6+ cells were primarily natural killer cells (41%) along with B cells (12%), T cells (11%), neutrophils (10%), and monocytes (9%). Importantly, exogenous CCL20 stimulated ovarian leukocyte migration 59% within 90 minutes. Due to the difficulties in obtaining human follicles, an in vitro model was developed using granulosa-lutein cells to explore CCL20 regulation. CCL20 expression increased 40-fold within 6 hours after hCG, was regulated partially by the epithelial growth factor pathway, and was positively correlated with progesterone production. These results demonstrate that hCG dramatically increases CCL20 expression in the human ovary, that ovarian leukocytes contain the CCL20 receptor, and that CCL20 stimulates leukocyte migration. Our findings raise the prospect that CCL20 may aid in the final ovulatory events and contribute to fertility in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linah Al-Alem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (L.A.-A., M.P., K.R., K.M., T.E.C.), College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536-0298; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (M.B.), Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Göteborg, Sweden; Stockholm IVF (M.B.), St Görans Sjukhus, 112 81 Stockholm, Sweden; and Bluegrass Fertility Center (J.A., J.B.), Lexington, Kentucky 40503
| | - Muraly Puttabyatappa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (L.A.-A., M.P., K.R., K.M., T.E.C.), College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536-0298; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (M.B.), Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Göteborg, Sweden; Stockholm IVF (M.B.), St Görans Sjukhus, 112 81 Stockholm, Sweden; and Bluegrass Fertility Center (J.A., J.B.), Lexington, Kentucky 40503
| | - Kathy Rosewell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (L.A.-A., M.P., K.R., K.M., T.E.C.), College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536-0298; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (M.B.), Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Göteborg, Sweden; Stockholm IVF (M.B.), St Görans Sjukhus, 112 81 Stockholm, Sweden; and Bluegrass Fertility Center (J.A., J.B.), Lexington, Kentucky 40503
| | - Mats Brännström
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (L.A.-A., M.P., K.R., K.M., T.E.C.), College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536-0298; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (M.B.), Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Göteborg, Sweden; Stockholm IVF (M.B.), St Görans Sjukhus, 112 81 Stockholm, Sweden; and Bluegrass Fertility Center (J.A., J.B.), Lexington, Kentucky 40503
| | - James Akin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (L.A.-A., M.P., K.R., K.M., T.E.C.), College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536-0298; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (M.B.), Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Göteborg, Sweden; Stockholm IVF (M.B.), St Görans Sjukhus, 112 81 Stockholm, Sweden; and Bluegrass Fertility Center (J.A., J.B.), Lexington, Kentucky 40503
| | - Jeffrey Boldt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (L.A.-A., M.P., K.R., K.M., T.E.C.), College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536-0298; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (M.B.), Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Göteborg, Sweden; Stockholm IVF (M.B.), St Görans Sjukhus, 112 81 Stockholm, Sweden; and Bluegrass Fertility Center (J.A., J.B.), Lexington, Kentucky 40503
| | - Ken Muse
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (L.A.-A., M.P., K.R., K.M., T.E.C.), College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536-0298; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (M.B.), Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Göteborg, Sweden; Stockholm IVF (M.B.), St Görans Sjukhus, 112 81 Stockholm, Sweden; and Bluegrass Fertility Center (J.A., J.B.), Lexington, Kentucky 40503
| | - Thomas E Curry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (L.A.-A., M.P., K.R., K.M., T.E.C.), College of Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536-0298; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (M.B.), Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Göteborg, Sweden; Stockholm IVF (M.B.), St Görans Sjukhus, 112 81 Stockholm, Sweden; and Bluegrass Fertility Center (J.A., J.B.), Lexington, Kentucky 40503
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Khan D, Guillemette C, Sirard M, Richard F. Characterization of FSH signalling networks in bovine cumulus cells: a perspective on oocyte competence acquisition. Mol Hum Reprod 2015; 21:688-701. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gav032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Accepted: 06/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
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Khan DR, Guillemette C, Sirard MA, Richard FJ. Transcriptomic analysis of cyclic AMP response in bovine cumulus cells. Physiol Genomics 2015; 47:432-42. [PMID: 26082143 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00043.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2015] [Accepted: 06/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Acquisition of oocyte developmental competence needs to be understood to improve clinical outcomes of assisted reproduction. The stimulation of cumulus cell concentration of cyclic adenosine 3'5'-monophosphate (cAMP) by pharmacological agents during in vitro maturation (IVM) participates in improvement of oocyte quality. However, precise coordination and downstream targets of cAMP signaling in cumulus cells are largely unknown. We have previously demonstrated better embryo development after cAMP stimulation for first 6 h during IVM. Using this model, we investigated cAMP signaling in cumulus cells through in vitro culture of cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) in the presence of cAMP raising agents: forskolin, IBMX, and dipyridamole (here called FID treatment). Transcriptomic analysis of cumulus cells indicated that FID-induced differentially expressed transcripts were implicated in cumulus expansion, steroidogenesis, cell metabolism, and oocyte competence. Functional genomic analysis revealed that protein kinase-A (PKA), extracellular signal regulated kinases (ERK1/2), and calcium (Ca(2+)) pathways as key regulators of FID signaling. Inhibition of PKA (H89) in FID-supplemented COCs or substitution of FID with calcium ionophore (A23187) demonstrated that FID activated primarily the PKA pathway which inhibited ERK1/2 phosphorylation and was upstream of calcium signaling. Furthermore, inhibition of ERK1/2 phosphorylation by FID supported a regulation by dual specific phosphatase (DUSP1) via PKA. Our findings imply that cAMP (FID) regulates cell metabolism, steroidogenesis, intracellular signaling and cumulus expansion through PKA which modulates these functions through optimization of ERK1/2 phosphorylation and coordination of calcium signaling. These findings have implications for development of new strategies for improving oocyte in vitro maturation leading to better developmental competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- D R Khan
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Département des Sciences Animales, Faculté des sciences de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - C Guillemette
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Département des Sciences Animales, Faculté des sciences de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - M A Sirard
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Département des Sciences Animales, Faculté des sciences de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - F J Richard
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Département des Sciences Animales, Faculté des sciences de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
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Altered amphiregulin expression induced by diverse luteinizing hormone receptor reactivity in granulosa cells affects IVF outcomes. Reprod Biomed Online 2015; 30:593-601. [PMID: 25911599 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2015.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2014] [Revised: 03/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The expression of specific genes (LHR, AREG, EREG, EGFR, NPPC and NPR2) involved in peri-ovulatory signalling pathways induced by LH surge in granulosa cells was investigated, and their relationships with IVF outcomes analysed. mRNA levels of the genes of 147 infertile women undergoing IVF and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) with embryo transfer were evaluated. Compared with non-pregnant women, amphiregulin (AREG) mRNA levels in mural and cumulus graunulosa cells were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in pregnant women, and were positively correlated with number of oocytes retrieved and good-quality embryos. No significant differences were found between the two groups in the remaining detected genes. To investigate the reason for the differences in AREG expression, mural granulosa cells were cultured and stimulated with human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) for 2-24 h. At 4 h after HCG stimulation, AREG and epiregulin mRNA expression peaked, with much greater increases in the pregnant group. The fold-change of AREG expression was positively correlated with number of good-quality embryos. No obvious correlation, however, was found between NPPC/Npr2 expression levels in granulosa cells and IVF outcomes. Altered AREG expression induced by diverse luteinizing hormone receptor reactivity in granulosa cells may provide a useful marker for oocyte developmental competency.
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ASSIDI M, MONTAG M, SIRARD MA. Use of both cumulus cells' transcriptomic markers and zona pellucida birefringence to select developmentally competent oocytes in human assisted reproductive technologies. BMC Genomics 2015; 16 Suppl 1:S9. [PMID: 25923296 PMCID: PMC4315169 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-16-s1-s9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Selection of the best oocyte for subsequent steps of fertilization and embryo transfer was shown to be the crucial step in human infertility treatment procedure. Oocyte selection using morphological criteria mainly Zona pellucida (ZP) has been the gold standard method in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) clinics, but this selection approach has limitations in terms of accuracy, objectivity and constancy. Recent studies using OMICs-based approaches have allowed the identification of key molecular markers that quantitatively and non-invasively predict the oocyte quality for higher pregnancy rates and efficient infertility treatment. These biomarkers are a valuable reinforcement of the morphological selection criteria widely used in in vitro fertilization (IVF) clinics. In this context, this study was designed to investigate the relationship between transcriptomic predictors of oocyte quality found by our group and the conventional morphological parameters of oocyte quality mainly the ZP birefringence. RESULTS Microarray data revealed that 48 and 27 differentially expressed candidate genes in cumulus cells (CCs) were respectively overexpressed and underexpressed in the ZGP (Zona Good Pregnant) versus ZBNP (Zona Bad Non Pregnant) groups. More than 70% of previously reported transcriptomic biomarkers of oocyte developmental competence were confirmed in this study. The analysis of possible association between ZP birefringence versus molecular markers approach showed an absence of correlation between them using the current set of markers. CONCLUSIONS This study suggested a new integrative approach that matches morphological and molecular approaches used to select developmentally competent oocytes able to lead to successful pregnancy and the delivery of healthy baby. For each ZP birefringence score, oocytes displayed a particular CCs' gene expression pattern. However, no correlations were found between the 7 gene biomarkers of oocyte developmental potential and the ZP birefringence score. Further studies using larger lists of candidate markers are required to identify suitable genes that are highly correlated with the morphological criteria, and therefore able to reinforce the accuracy of oocyte selection and the effectiveness of infertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mourad ASSIDI
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia
- KACST Technology Innovation Center in Personalized Medicine, King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, G1K 7P4, Canada
| | - Markus MONTAG
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Bonn University, Bonn, Germany
- Current address: ilabcomm Gm bH, Eisenachstr. 34; D-53757 St. Augustin; Germany
| | - Marc-André SIRARD
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, G1K 7P4, Canada
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Induction of proteinases in the human preovulatory follicle of the menstrual cycle by human chorionic gonadotropin. Fertil Steril 2014; 103:826-33. [PMID: 25516084 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2014] [Revised: 11/06/2014] [Accepted: 11/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the temporal expression in granulosa and theca cells of key members of the MMP and ADAMTS families across the periovulatory period in women to gain insight into their possible roles during ovulation and early luteinization. DESIGN Experimental prospective clinical study and laboratory-based investigation. SETTING University medical center and private IVF center. ANIMAL AND PATIENT(S) Thirty-eight premenopausal women undergoing surgery for tubal ligation and six premenopausal women undergoing assisted reproductive techniques. INTERVENTION(S) Administration of hCG and harvesting of follicles by laparoscopy and collection of granulosa-lutein cells at oocyte retrieval. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Expression of mRNA for matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs) and the A disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin-like motifs (ADAMTS) in human granulosa cells and theca cells collected across the periovulatory period of the menstrual cycle and in cultured granulosa-lutein cells after hCG. Localization of MMPs and ADAMTSs by immunohistochemistry. RESULT(S) Expression of MMP1 and MMP19 mRNA increased in both granulosa and theca cells after hCG administration. ADAMTS1 and ADAMTS9 mRNA increased in granulosa cells after hCG treatment, however, thecal cell expression for ADAMTS1 was unchanged, while ADAMTS9 expression was decreased. Expression of MMP8 and MMP13 mRNA was unchanged. Immunohistochemistry confirmed the localization of MMP1, MMP19, ADAMTS1, and ADAMTS9 to the granulosa and thecal cell layers. CONCLUSION(S) The collection of the dominant follicle throughout the periovulatory period has allowed the identification of proteolytic remodeling enzymes in the granulosa and theca compartments that may be critically involved in human ovulation. These proteinases may work in concert to regulate breakdown of the follicular wall and release of the oocyte.
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Casarini L, Moriondo V, Marino M, Adversi F, Capodanno F, Grisolia C, La Marca A, La Sala GB, Simoni M. FSHR polymorphism p.N680S mediates different responses to FSH in vitro. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 393:83-91. [PMID: 24970684 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2014.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2014] [Revised: 06/16/2014] [Accepted: 06/16/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The single nucleotide polymorphism p.N680S of the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) receptor (FSHR) is a discrete marker of ovarian response but previous in vitro studies failed to demonstrate differences in the response to FSH between N and S carrier cells. Here we demonstrate that p.N680S mediates different kinetics of the response to FSH in vitro. Intracellular cAMP production is faster in p.N680S N than in S homozygous human granulosa cells (45 versus 90 min to achieve the plateau, respectively; Mann-Whitney's U-test; p < 0.005; n = 4). Reflecting the cAMP kinetics, phospho-ERK1/2 and -CREB activation, AREG and STARD1 gene expressions and progesterone production were qualitatively and quantitatively different in N versus S homozygous cells. Finally, the blockade of ERK pathway by U0126 abolishes the genotype-mediated different effects on gene expression and progesterone production (Mann-Whitney's U-test; p ≥ 0.005; n = 3).
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Affiliation(s)
- Livio Casarini
- Unit of Endocrinology, Dept. of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Center for Genome Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.
| | - Valeria Moriondo
- Unit of Endocrinology, Dept. of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Center for Genome Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Marco Marino
- Unit of Endocrinology, Dept. of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Center for Genome Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesca Adversi
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS-Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Francesco Capodanno
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS-Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Chiarina Grisolia
- Dept. of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Laboratory of Chemical-Clinical Analysis, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonio La Marca
- Dept. of Medical and Mother-Infant and Adult Surgical Sciences, Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Giovanni Battista La Sala
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS-Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy; Dept. of Medical and Surgical Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Dept. of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Center for Genome Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Azienda USL, Modena, Italy
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Kim SO, Harris SM, Duffy DM. Prostaglandin E2 (EP) receptors mediate PGE2-specific events in ovulation and luteinization within primate ovarian follicles. Endocrinology 2014; 155:1466-75. [PMID: 24506073 PMCID: PMC3959600 DOI: 10.1210/en.2013-2096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is a key mediator of ovulation. All 4 PGE2 receptors (EP receptors) are expressed in the primate follicle, but the specific role of each EP receptor in ovulatory events is poorly understood. To examine the ovulatory events mediated via these EP receptors, preovulatory monkey follicles were injected with vehicle, the PG synthesis inhibitor indomethacin, or indomethacin plus PGE2. An ovulatory dose of human chorionic gonadotropin was administered; the injected ovary was collected 48 hours later and serially sectioned. Vehicle-injected follicles showed normal ovulatory events, including follicle rupture, absence of an oocyte, and thickening of the granulosa cell layer. Indomethacin-injected follicles did not rupture and contained oocytes surrounded by unexpanded cumulus; granulosa cell hypertrophy did not occur. Follicles injected with indomethacin plus PGE2 were similar to vehicle-injected ovaries, indicating that PGE2 restored the ovulatory changes inhibited by indomethacin. Additional follicles were injected with indomethacin plus an agonist for each EP receptor. EP1, EP2, and EP4 agonists each promoted aspects of follicle rupture, but no single EP agonist recapitulated normal follicle rupture as seen in follicles injected with either vehicle or indomethacin plus PGE2. Although EP4 agonist-injected follicles contained oocytes in unexpanded cumulus, the absence of oocytes in EP1 agonist- and EP2 agonist-injected follicles suggests that these EP receptors promote cumulus expansion. Surprisingly, the EP3 agonist did not stimulate any of these ovulatory changes, despite the high level of EP3 receptor expression in the monkey follicle. Therefore, agonists and antagonists selective for EP1 and EP2 receptors hold the most promise for control of ovulatory events in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soon Ok Kim
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia 23501
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Assidi M, Richard FJ, Sirard MA. FSH in vitro versus LH in vivo: similar genomic effects on the cumulus. J Ovarian Res 2013; 6:68. [PMID: 24066945 PMCID: PMC3852229 DOI: 10.1186/1757-2215-6-68] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2013] [Accepted: 09/17/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of gonadotropins to trigger oocyte maturation both in vivo and in vitro has provided precious and powerful knowledge that has significantly increased our understanding of the ovarian function. Moreover, the efficacy of most assisted reproductive technologies (ART) used in both humans and livestock species relies on gonadotropin input, mainly FSH and LH. Despite the significant progress achieved and the huge impact of gonadotropins, the exact molecular pathways of the two pituitary hormones, FSH and LH, still remain poorly understood. Moreover, these pathways may not be the same when moving from the in vivo to the in vitro context. This misunderstanding of the intricate synergy between these two hormones leads to a lack of consensus about their use mainly in vitro or in ovulation induction schedules in vivo. In order to optimize their use, additional work is thus required with a special focus on comparing the in vitro versus the in vivo effects. In this context, this overview will briefly summarize the downstream gene expression pathways induced by both FSH in vitro and LH in vivo in the cumulus compartment. Based on recent microarray comparative analysis, we are reporting that in vitro FSH stimulation on cumulus cells appears to achieve at least part of the gene expression activity after in vivo LH stimulation. We are then proposing that the in vitro FSH-response of cumulus cells have similitudes with the in vivo LH-response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mourad Assidi
- Département des Sciences Animales, Faculté de l'Agriculture et de l'Alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1K 7P4, Canada.
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Richani D, Ritter LJ, Thompson JG, Gilchrist RB. Mode of oocyte maturation affects EGF-like peptide function and oocyte competence. Mol Hum Reprod 2013; 19:500-9. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gat028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Puttabyatappa M, Brogan RS, Vandevoort CA, Chaffin CL. EGF-like ligands mediate progesterone's anti-apoptotic action on macaque granulosa cells. Biol Reprod 2013; 88:18. [PMID: 23136296 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.103002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
A local autocrine/paracrine role for progesterone is an absolute requirement for corpus luteum formation in primates. Despite this, the mechanism(s) remain obscure, although existing data suggest an anti-apoptotic action to be central. There are a limited number of progestin-regulated gene targets identified in the luteinizing primate follicle, suggesting that a small number of important genes may mediate progesterone action. Possible gene targets could be the epidermal growth factor (EGF) family members amphiregulin (AREG) and epiregulin (EREG). Using macaques undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation cycles, we show that the phosphorylation of EGF receptor (EGFR), ERK 1/2, and AKT increases 6 h after an ovulatory human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) stimulus and remains activate through 24 h. Immunoreactive EREG and AREG ligands in the follicular fluid both increased in a time frame commensurate with EGFR phosphorylation. The mRNA expression of AREG and EREG in nonluteinized granulosa cells (NLGC) was induced in culture with hCG, an effect blocked by progesterone receptor (PGR) antagonists. Overexpression of PGR B in NLGC and treatment with a nonmetabolizable progestin did not increase either gene, indicating both progesterone and luteinizing hormone/CG are necessary. Addition of EGF and EGF-like ligands did not promote steroidogenesis in vitro by granulosa cells in the presence of gonadotropin, but were able to partially reverse RU486-induced cell death. These data suggest that progesterone promotes the expression of AREG and EREG, which in turn maintain viability of luteinizing granulosa cells, representing one possible mechanism whereby progesterone promotes corpus luteum formation in the primate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muraly Puttabyatappa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, MS331 UKMC, 800 Rose St., Lexington, KY 40536-0298, USA.
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Liu N, Ma Y, Li R, Jin H, Li M, Huang X, Feng HL, Qiao J. Comparison of follicular fluid amphiregulin and EGF concentrations in patients undergoing IVF with different stimulation protocols. Endocrine 2012; 42:708-16. [PMID: 22678853 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-012-9706-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2012] [Accepted: 05/14/2012] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like growth factors, such as amphiregulin (AR) and EGF, have emerged as mediators to propagate Luteinizing hormone (LH) stimulus for the oocyte maturation throughout the preovulatory follicle, because cumulus cells and oocytes express few or no LH receptors. This study was to compare AR and EGF concentrations in follicular fluid (FF) among four controlled ovary stimulation (COS) protocols and to investigate the relationship between FF EGF-like growth factors and COS outcomes. Ninety-five patients who underwent in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) were treated by four different COS protocols, including gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-a) long protocol, GnRH-a ultra-long protocol, GnRH-a short protocol, and GnRH antagonist protocol. FF was taken on oocyte retrieval day. FF AR and EGF concentrations were measured and their correlations with COS outcomes were analyzed. FF AR concentration was significantly different from each other among four COS protocol groups (GnRH-a ultra-long protocol group, 186.12 ng/ml; GnRH-a long protocol group, 128.35 ng/ml; GnRH antagonist protocol group, 108.23 ng/ml; GnRH-a short protocol group, 77.13 ng/ml, p < 0.05). FF AR concentrations were higher in GnRH-a ultra-long and long protocol groups, while number of oocytes retrieval, available embryos, and good quality embryos in these two groups were also significantly higher than GnRH-a short protocol group and GnRH antagonist protocol group. FF AR concentration was positively correlated with available embryos, but negatively correlated with serum LH level on hCG day. FF EGF concentration had no relationship with COS parameters. Different COS protocols might have variable effects on AR synthesis. FF AR might be a good indicator to predict the number of oocytes and embryos. FF AR elevation may result in increasing the number of oocyte retrieval and embryo generation, consequently increased cumulative pregnancy rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nana Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49, Huayuan North Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
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Embryonic poly(A)-binding protein (EPAB) is required for oocyte maturation and female fertility in mice. Biochem J 2012; 446:47-58. [PMID: 22621333 DOI: 10.1042/bj20120467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Gene expression during oocyte maturation and early embryogenesis up to zygotic genome activation requires translational activation of maternally-derived mRNAs. EPAB [embryonic poly(A)-binding protein] is the predominant poly(A)-binding protein during this period in Xenopus, mouse and human. In Xenopus oocytes, ePAB stabilizes maternal mRNAs and promotes their translation. To assess the role of EPAB in mammalian reproduction, we generated Epab-knockout mice. Although Epab(-/-) males and Epab(+/-) of both sexes were fertile, Epab(-/-) female mice were infertile, and could not generate embryos or mature oocytes in vivo or in vitro. Epab(-/-) oocytes failed to achieve translational activation of maternally-stored mRNAs upon stimulation of oocyte maturation, including Ccnb1 (cyclin B1) and Dazl (deleted in azoospermia-like) mRNAs. Microinjection of Epab mRNA into Epab(-/-) germinal vesicle stage oocytes did not rescue maturation, suggesting that EPAB is also required for earlier stages of oogenesis. In addition, late antral follicles in the ovaries of Epab(-/-) mice exhibited impaired cumulus expansion, and a 8-fold decrease in ovulation, associated with a significant down-regulation of mRNAs encoding the EGF (epidermal growth factor)-like growth factors Areg (amphiregulin), Ereg (epiregulin) and Btc (betacellulin), and their downstream regulators, Ptgs2 (prostaglandin synthase 2), Has2 (hyaluronan synthase 2) and Tnfaip6 (tumour necrosis factor α-induced protein 6). The findings from the present study indicate that EPAB is necessary for oogenesis, folliculogenesis and female fertility in mice.
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Rose RD, Gilchrist RB, Kelly JM, Thompson JG, Sutton-McDowall ML. Regulation of sheep oocyte maturation using cAMP modulators. Theriogenology 2012; 79:142-8. [PMID: 23102843 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2012.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2012] [Revised: 09/26/2012] [Accepted: 09/26/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Physical removal of mammalian cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) from ovarian follicles results in spontaneous resumption of meiosis, largely because of a decrease in cAMP concentrations, causing asynchrony between cytoplasmic and nuclear maturation and decreased oocyte developmental competence. The aim of this study was to modulate cAMP concentrations within ovine COCs to delay spontaneous nuclear maturation and improve developmental competence. Abattoir-derived sheep COCs were cultured for 2 hours (pre-IVM) in 100 μM forskolin (FSK) plus 500 μM 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX). Pre-IVM (100 μM FSK and 500 μM IBMX) culture increased COC cAMP concentrations 10-fold compared with controls (P < 0.05). With regard to nuclear maturation, with FSK and IBMX and/or with FSH and cilostamide delayed completion of meiosis (metaphase II) by 3 to 4 hours compared with standard IVM (FSH-stimulated induction of meiosis). In this study, pre-IVM (with FSK and IBMX) followed by IVM (with FSH and cilostamide), increased ovine COC cAMP concentrations and delayed, but did not inhibit, completion of nuclear maturation. This did not affect embryo development rates, but increased total cell number of blastocysts compared with IVM with FSH alone (103 ± 6 vs. 66 ± 4 cells, respectively; mean ± SEM; P < 0.05). We inferred that regulation of ovine oocyte cAMP concentrations during IVM improved embryo quality compared with embryos produced by standard IVM methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan D Rose
- The Robinson Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Prochazka R, Blaha M, Nemcova L. Signaling pathways regulating FSH- and amphiregulin-induced meiotic resumption and cumulus cell expansion in the pig. Reproduction 2012; 144:535-46. [PMID: 22949725 DOI: 10.1530/rep-12-0191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
To define signaling pathways that drive FSH- and epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like peptide-induced cumulus expansion and oocyte meiotic resumption, in vitro cultured pig cumulus-oocyte complexes were treated with specific protein kinase inhibitors. We found that FSH-induced maturation of oocytes was blocked in germinal vesicle (GV) stage by protein kinase A (PKA), MAPK14, MAPK3/1, and EGF receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (H89, SB203580, U0126, and AG1478 respectively) whereas phosphoinositide-3-kinase/v-akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog (PI3K/AKT) inhibitor (LY294002) blocked maturation of oocytes in metaphase I (MI). Amphiregulin (AREG)-induced maturation of oocytes was efficiently blocked in GV by U0126, AG1478, and low concentrations of LY294002; H89, SB203580, and high concentrations of LY294002 allowed the oocytes to undergo breakdown of GV and blocked maturation in MI. Both FSH- and AREG-induced cumulus expansion was incompletely inhibited by H89 and completely inhibited by SB203580, U0126, AG1478, and LY294002. The inhibitors partially or completely inhibited expression of expansion-related genes (HAS2, PTGS2, and TNFAIP6) with two exceptions: H89 inhibited only TNFAIP6 expression and LY294002 increased expression of PTGS2. The results of this study are consistent with the idea that PKA and MAPK14 pathways are essential for FSH-induced transactivation of the EGFR, and synthesis of EGF-like peptides in cumulus cells and MAPK3/1 is involved in regulation of transcriptional and posttranscriptional events in cumulus cells required for meiotic resumption and cumulus expansion. PI3K/AKT signaling is important for regulation of cumulus expansion, AREG-induced meiotic resumption, and oocyte MI/MII transition. The present data also indicate the existence of an FSH-activated and PKA-independent pathway involved in regulation of HAS2 and PTGS2 expression in cumulus cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Prochazka
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, , Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Rumburska 89, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic.
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Cotterill M, Catt SL, Picton HM. Characterisation of the cellular and molecular responses of ovine oocytes and their supporting somatic cells to pre-ovulatory levels of LH and FSH during in vitro maturation. Reproduction 2012; 144:195-207. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-12-0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The response of Graafian follicles to pre-ovulatory surge levels of FSH and LH in vivo triggers the terminal differentiation of granulosa cells and oocyte maturation. In polyovular species, the LH-driven signalling uses the epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like ligands AREG, EREG and BTC to promote oocyte maturation and cumulus expansion. This experimental series used a physiologically relevant ovine in vitro maturation (IVM) system to evaluate the impact of exposure to pre-ovulatory levels (100 ng/ml) of LH and FSH on ovine cumulus cell expression of EGF-like ligands in vitro. The serum-free sheep IVM system supported high levels (91.4%) of gonadotrophin-induced maturation of cumulus-enclosed oocytes and embryo development to the blastocyst stage (34.5%). Results were equivalent to a serum-based IVM system (85.1% IVM, 25.8% blastocyst rate; P>0.05) but were significantly different (P<0.05) to serum-free medium without gonadotrophins (69.5% IVM; 8.0% blastocyst rate). Ovine BTC was cloned and sequenced. Gonadotrophin-induced AREG, EREG, BTC and EGFR expressions were quantified in cumulus and mural granulosa cells during IVM. A rapid induction of AREG expression was apparent in both cell types within 30 min of gonadotrophin exposure in vitro. LHCGR (LHR) was detected in mural cells and FSHR in both cumulus and mural granulosa cells. The data confirm the involvement of AREG and EGFR during gonadotrophin-induced cumulus expansion, oocyte maturation and the acquisition of developmental competence by sheep oocytes matured in vitro.
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Humaidan P, Westergaard LG, Mikkelsen AL, Fukuda M, Yding Andersen C. Levels of the epidermal growth factor-like peptide amphiregulin in follicular fluid reflect the mode of triggering ovulation: a comparison between gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist and urinary human chorionic gonadotrophin. Fertil Steril 2011; 95:2034-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2010] [Revised: 01/26/2011] [Accepted: 02/07/2011] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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Procházka R, Petlach M, Nagyová E, Němcová L. Effect of epidermal growth factor-like peptides on pig cumulus cell expansion, oocyte maturation, and acquisition of developmental competence in vitro: comparison with gonadotropins. Reproduction 2011; 141:425-35. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-10-0418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this work was to assess the FSH-stimulated expression of epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like peptides in cultured cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs) and to find out the effect of the peptides on cumulus expansion, oocyte maturation, and acquisition of developmental competencein vitro. FSH promptly stimulated expression of amphiregulin (AREG) and epiregulin (EREG), but not betacellulin (BTC) in the cultured COCs. Expression ofAREGandEREGreached maximum at 2 or 4 h after FSH addition respectively. FSH also significantly stimulated expression of expansion-related genes (PTGS2,TNFAIP6, andHAS2) in the COCs at 4 and 8 h of culture, with a significant decrease at 20 h of culture. Both AREG and EREG also increased expression of the expansion-related genes; however, the relative abundance of mRNA for each gene was much lower than in the FSH-stimulated COCs. In contrast to FSH, AREG and EREG neither stimulated expression ofCYP11A1in the COCs nor an increase in progesterone production by cumulus cells. AREG and EREG stimulated maturation of oocytes and expansion of cumulus cells, although the percentage of oocytes that had reached metaphase II was significantly lower when compared to FSH-induced maturation. Nevertheless, significantly more oocytes stimulated with AREG and/or EREG developed to blastocyst stage after parthenogenetic activation when compared to oocytes stimulated with FSH alone or combinations of FSH/LH or pregnant mares serum gonadotrophin/human chorionic gonadotrophin. We conclude that EGF-like peptides do not mimic all effects of FSH on the cultured COCs; nevertheless, they yield oocytes with superior developmental competence.
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Yoshioka N, Takahashi N, Tarumi W, Itoh MT, Ishizuka B. Gonadotropins up-regulate the expression of enolase 2, but not enolase 1, in the rat ovary. Endocr J 2011; 58:941-8. [PMID: 21857146 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.ej11-0098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been demonstrated that the glycolytic enzymes, enolase 1 (ENO1) and enolase 2 (ENO2), are expressed in the rat ovary. In the present study, we found that mRNA levels of ovarian ENO2 but not ENO1 in normal cycling adult female rats changed significantly during the estrous cycle: ovarian ENO2 mRNA levels at metestrus were lower than those at estrus. Single injection of human CG (hCG) or equine CG (eCG) into immature (3 week old) rats up-regulated ovarian expression of ENO2. hCG mainly increased ENO2 expression in oocytes and theca cells of preantral and antral follicles, and eCG did in theca cells of these follicles. In contrast, hCG and eCG did not affect the expression of ENO1, which was mainly expressed in granulosa cells. These results suggest that endogenous gonadotropins up-regulate expression of ENO2 in oocytes and theca cells of preantral and antral follicles, which would activate glycolysis in these cells. It is also suggested that the activated glycolysis is necessary for ovarian functions such as follicle growth and maturation, and hormone production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobuhito Yoshioka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki 216-8511, Japan
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