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Wang Y, Guo K, Wang Q, Zhong G, Zhang W, Jiang Y, Mao X, Li X, Huang Z. Caenorhabditis elegans as an emerging model in food and nutrition research: importance of standardizing base diet. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2022; 64:3167-3185. [PMID: 36200941 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2022.2130875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
As a model organism that has helped revolutionize life sciences, Caenorhabditis elegans has been increasingly used in nutrition research. Here we explore the tradeoffs between pros and cons of its use as a dietary model based primarily on literature review from the past decade. We first provide an overview of its experimental strengths as an animal model, focusing on lifespan and healthspan, behavioral and physiological phenotypes, and conservation of key nutritional pathways. We then summarize recent advances of its use in nutritional studies, e.g. food preference and feeding behavior, sugar status and metabolic reprogramming, lifetime and transgenerational nutrition tracking, and diet-microbiota-host interactions, highlighting cutting-edge technologies originated from or developed in C. elegans. We further review current challenges of using C. elegans as a nutritional model, followed by in-depth discussions on potential solutions. In particular, growth scales and throughputs, food uptake mode, and axenic culture of C. elegans are appraised in the context of food research. We also provide perspectives for future development of chemically defined nematode food ("NemaFood") for C. elegans, which is now widely accepted as a versatile and affordable in vivo model and has begun to show transformative potential to pioneer nutrition science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Wang
- Institute for Food Nutrition and Human Health, School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Biocosmetics, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kaixin Guo
- Institute for Food Nutrition and Human Health, School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qiangqiang Wang
- Institute for Food Nutrition and Human Health, School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Biocosmetics, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guohuan Zhong
- Institute for Food Nutrition and Human Health, School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Center for Bioresources and Drug Discovery, School of Biosciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenjun Zhang
- Center for Bioresources and Drug Discovery, School of Biosciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yiyi Jiang
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Biocosmetics, Guangzhou, China
- Perfect Life & Health Institute, Zhongshan, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinliang Mao
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Biocosmetics, Guangzhou, China
- Perfect Life & Health Institute, Zhongshan, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaomin Li
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Biocosmetics, Guangzhou, China
- Perfect Life & Health Institute, Zhongshan, Guangdong, China
| | - Zebo Huang
- Institute for Food Nutrition and Human Health, School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory for Biocosmetics, Guangzhou, China
- Center for Bioresources and Drug Discovery, School of Biosciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
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Zinc transporters ZIPT-2.4 and ZIPT-15 are required for normal C. elegans fecundity. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:1261-1276. [PMID: 35501415 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02495-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The requirement of zinc for the development and maturation of germ lines and reproductive systems is deeply conserved across evolution. The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans offers a tractable platform to study the complex system of distributing zinc to the germ line. We investigated several zinc importers to investigate how zinc transporters play a role in the reproductive system in nematodes, as well as establish a platform to study zinc transporter biology in germline and reproductive development. METHODS Previous high throughput transcriptional datasets as well as phylogenetic analysis identified several putative zinc transporters that have a function in reproduction in worms. Phenotypic analysis of CRISPR-generated knockouts and tags included characterization of offspring output, gonad development, and protein localization. Light and immunofluorescence microscopy allowed for visualization of physiological and molecular effects of zinc transporter mutations. RESULTS Disruption of two zinc transporters, ZIPT-2.4 and ZIPT-15, was shown to lead to defects in reproductive output. A mutation in zipt-2.4 has subtle effects on reproduction, while a mutation in zipt-15 has a clear impact on gonad and germline development that translates into a more pronounced defect in fecundity. Both transporters have germline expression, as well as additional expression in other cell types. CONCLUSIONS Two ZIP-family zinc transporter orthologs of human ZIP6/10 and ZIP1/2/3 proteins are important for full reproductive fecundity and participate in development of the gonad. Notably, these zinc transporters are present in gut and reproductive tissues in addition to the germ line, consistent with a complex zinc trafficking network important for reproductive success.
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Mendoza AD, Sue A, Antipova O, Vogt S, Woodruff TK, Wignall SM, O’Halloran TV. Dynamic zinc fluxes regulate meiotic progression in Caenorhabditis elegans†. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:406-418. [PMID: 35466369 PMCID: PMC9902257 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Zinc influx and efflux events are essential for meiotic progression in oocytes of several mammalian and amphibian species, but it is less clear whether this evolutionary conservation of zinc signals is also important in late-stage germline development in invertebrates. Using quantitative, single cell elemental mapping methods, we find that Caenorhabditis elegans oocytes undergo significant stage-dependent fluctuations in total zinc content, rising by over sevenfold from Prophase I through the beginning of mitotic divisions in the embryo. Live imaging of the rapid cell cycle progression in C. elegans enables us to follow changes in labile zinc pools across meiosis and mitosis in single embryo. We find a dynamic increase in labile zinc prior to fertilization that then decreases from Anaphase II through pronuclear fusion and relocalizes to the eggshell. Disruption of these zinc fluxes blocks extrusion of the second polar body, leading to a range of mitotic defects. We conclude that spatial temporal zinc fluxes are necessary for meiotic progression in C. elegans and are a conserved feature of germ cell development in a broad cross section of metazoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelita D Mendoza
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA,The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Aaron Sue
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA,The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Olga Antipova
- X-ray Science Division, Advanced Photon Source, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL, USA
| | - Stefan Vogt
- X-ray Science Division, Advanced Photon Source, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL, USA
| | - Teresa K Woodruff
- Correspondence: Department of Chemistry and Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, Interdisciplinary Science and Technology Building Room 3022, 766 Service Rd., East Lansing, MI 48823, USA. Tel: 517-353-4090; Fax: 517-353-2446; E-mail: ; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Interdisplinary Science and Technology Building Room 3006, 766 Service Rd. East Lansing, MI 48823, USA. Tel: 517-353-4090; Fax: 517-353-2446; E-mail: and Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, 2205 Tech Drive, Hogan 2-100, Evanston, IL 60208. E-mail:
| | - Sarah M Wignall
- Correspondence: Department of Chemistry and Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, Interdisciplinary Science and Technology Building Room 3022, 766 Service Rd., East Lansing, MI 48823, USA. Tel: 517-353-4090; Fax: 517-353-2446; E-mail: ; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Interdisplinary Science and Technology Building Room 3006, 766 Service Rd. East Lansing, MI 48823, USA. Tel: 517-353-4090; Fax: 517-353-2446; E-mail: and Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, 2205 Tech Drive, Hogan 2-100, Evanston, IL 60208. E-mail:
| | - Thomas V O’Halloran
- Correspondence: Department of Chemistry and Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, Interdisciplinary Science and Technology Building Room 3022, 766 Service Rd., East Lansing, MI 48823, USA. Tel: 517-353-4090; Fax: 517-353-2446; E-mail: ; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Interdisplinary Science and Technology Building Room 3006, 766 Service Rd. East Lansing, MI 48823, USA. Tel: 517-353-4090; Fax: 517-353-2446; E-mail: and Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, 2205 Tech Drive, Hogan 2-100, Evanston, IL 60208. E-mail:
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Abstract
Mammalian oocytes undergo major changes in zinc content and localization to be fertilized, the most striking being the rapid exocytosis of over 10 billion zinc ions in what are known as zinc sparks. Here, we report that fertilization of amphibian Xenopus laevis eggs also initiates a zinc spark that progresses across the cell surface in coordination with dynamic calcium waves. This zinc exocytosis is accompanied by a newly recognized loss of intracellular manganese. Synchrotron-based X-ray fluorescence and analytical electron microscopy reveal that zinc and manganese are sequestered in a system of cortical granules that are abundant at the animal pole. Through electron-nuclear double-resonance studies, we rule out Mn2+ complexation with phosphate or nitrogenous ligands in intact eggs, but the data are consistent with a carboxylate coordination environment. Our observations suggest that zinc and manganese fluxes are a conserved feature of fertilization in vertebrates and that they function as part of a physiological block to polyspermy.
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Garner TB, Hester JM, Carothers A, Diaz FJ. Role of zinc in female reproduction. Biol Reprod 2021; 104:976-994. [PMID: 33598687 PMCID: PMC8599883 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Revised: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Zinc is a critical component in a number of conserved processes that regulate female germ cell growth, fertility, and pregnancy. During follicle development, a sufficient intracellular concentration of zinc in the oocyte maintains meiotic arrest at prophase I until the germ cell is ready to undergo maturation. An adequate supply of zinc is necessary for the oocyte to form a fertilization-competent egg as dietary zinc deficiency or chelation of zinc disrupts maturation and reduces the oocyte quality. Following sperm fusion to the egg to initiate the acrosomal reaction, a quick release of zinc, known as the zinc spark, induces egg activation in addition to facilitating zona pellucida hardening and reducing sperm motility to prevent polyspermy. Symmetric division, proliferation, and differentiation of the preimplantation embryo rely on zinc availability, both during the oocyte development and post-fertilization. Further, the fetal contribution to the placenta, fetal limb growth, and neural tube development are hindered in females challenged with zinc deficiency during pregnancy. In this review, we discuss the role of zinc in germ cell development, fertilization, and pregnancy with a focus on recent studies in mammalian females. We further detail the fundamental zinc-mediated reproductive processes that have only been explored in non-mammalian species and speculate on the role of zinc in similar mechanisms of female mammals. The evidence collected over the last decade highlights the necessity of zinc for normal fertility and healthy pregnancy outcomes, which suggests zinc supplementation should be considered for reproductive age women at risk of zinc deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Bruce Garner
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Integrative and Biomedical Physiology Program, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - James Malcolm Hester
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Integrative and Biomedical Physiology Program, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Allison Carothers
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Integrative and Biomedical Physiology Program, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Francisco J Diaz
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Integrative and Biomedical Physiology Program, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
- Department of Animal Science, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
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Hu Q, Antipova OA, O’Halloran TV, Wolfner MF. X-ray fluorescence microscopy scanning of Drosophila oocytes and eggs. STAR Protoc 2021; 2:100247. [PMID: 33437967 PMCID: PMC7786125 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2020.100247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
X-ray fluorescence microscopy (XFM) is a powerful tool for mapping and quantifying the spatial distribution of elemental composition of biological samples. Recently, it was reported that transition metal fluctuations occur during Drosophila reproduction, analogous to what is seen in mammals and nematodes, and may contribute to Drosophila female fertility. To further support XFM studies on Drosophila reproduction, we describe procedures for isolating oocytes and activated eggs and examining their elemental composition by XFM scanning and analysis. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Hu et al. (2020).
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinan Hu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Olga A. Antipova
- X-ray Sciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL 60439, USA
| | - Thomas V. O’Halloran
- The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Mariana F. Wolfner
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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Vickram S, Rohini K, Srinivasan S, Veenakumari DN, Archana K, Anbarasu K, Jeyanthi P, Thanigaivel S, Gulothungan G, Rajendiran N, Srikumar PS. Role of Zinc (Zn) in Human Reproduction: A Journey from Initial Spermatogenesis to Childbirth. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2188. [PMID: 33671837 PMCID: PMC7926410 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22042188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Zinc (Zn), the second-most necessary trace element, is abundant in the human body. The human body lacks the capacity to store Zn; hence, the dietary intake of Zn is essential for various functions and metabolism. The uptake of Zn during its transport through the body is important for proper development of the three major accessory sex glands: the testis, epididymis, and prostate. It plays key roles in the initial stages of germ cell development and spermatogenesis, sperm cell development and maturation, ejaculation, liquefaction, the binding of spermatozoa and prostasomes, capacitation, and fertilization. The prostate releases more Zn into the seminal plasma during ejaculation, and it plays a significant role in sperm release and motility. During the maternal, labor, perinatal, and neonatal periods, the part of Zn is vital. The average dietary intake of Zn is in the range of 8-12 mg/day in developing countries during the maternal period. Globally, the dietary intake of Zn varies for pregnant and lactating mothers, but the average Zn intake is in the range of 9.6-11.2 mg/day. The absence of Zn and the consequences of this have been discussed using critical evidence. The events and functions of Zn related to successful fertilization have been summarized in detail. Briefly, our current review emphasizes the role of Zn at each stage of human reproduction, from the spermatogenesis process to childbirth. The role of Zn and its supplementation in in vitro fertilization (IVF) opens opportunities for future studies on reproductive biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sundaram Vickram
- Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 602105, India; (S.V.); (S.T.)
| | - Karunakaran Rohini
- Unit of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, AIMST University, Semeling, Bedong 08100, Kedah, Malaysia
| | - Subramanian Srinivasan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 602105, India; (S.S.); (G.G.); (N.R.)
| | | | - Kumar Archana
- Department of Agriculture Engineering, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 602105, India;
| | - Krishnan Anbarasu
- Department of Bioinformatics, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 602105, India;
| | - Palanivelu Jeyanthi
- Department of Biotechnology, Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600062, India;
| | - Sundaram Thanigaivel
- Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 602105, India; (S.V.); (S.T.)
| | - Govindarajan Gulothungan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 602105, India; (S.S.); (G.G.); (N.R.)
| | - Nanmaran Rajendiran
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 602105, India; (S.S.); (G.G.); (N.R.)
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Ashrap P, Meeker JD, Sánchez BN, Basu N, Tamayo-Ortiz M, Solano-González M, Mercado-García A, Téllez-Rojo MM, Peterson KE, Watkins DJ. In utero and peripubertal metals exposure in relation to reproductive hormones and sexual maturation and progression among boys in Mexico City. Environ Health 2020; 19:124. [PMID: 33239073 PMCID: PMC7688001 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-020-00672-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as metals have been reported to alter circulating reproductive hormone concentrations and pubertal development in animals. However, the relationship has rarely been investigated among humans, with the exception of heavy metals, such as Pb and Cd. Our aim was to investigate measures of in utero and peripubertal metal exposure in relation to reproductive hormone concentrations and sexual maturation and progression among boys from the Early Life Exposure in Mexico to Environmental Toxicants (ELEMENT) cohorts. METHODS Our analysis included 118 pregnant women and their male children from the ELEMENT study. Essential and non-essential metals were measured in urine collected from the mothers during the third trimester of pregnancy and their male children at 8-14 years. Reproductive hormone concentrations [serum testosterone, estradiol, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), inhibin B, and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)] were measured in blood samples from the children at 8-14 years. We also assessed Tanner stages for sexual maturation (genital, pubic hair development, and testicular volume), at two time points (8-14, 10-18 years). We used linear regression to independently examine urinary metal concentrations in relation to each peripubertal reproductive hormones adjusting for child age and BMI. Generalized estimation equations (GEEs) were used to evaluate the association of in utero and peripubertal metal exposures with sexual maturation and progression during follow-up based on Tanner staging and testicular volume. RESULTS In utero and prepubertal concentrations of some urinary metals were associated with increased concentrations of peripubertal reproductive hormones, especially non-essential metal(loid)s As and Cd (in utero), and Ba (peripubertal) as well as essential metal Mo (in utero) in association with testosterone. More advanced pubic hair developmental stage and higher testicular volume at the early teen visit was observed for boys with higher non-essential metal concentrations, including in utero Al and peripubertal Ba, and essential metal Zn concentration (peripubertal). These metals were also associated with slower pubertal progression between the two visits. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that male reproductive development may be associated with both essential and non-essential metal exposure during in utero and peripubertal windows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pahriya Ashrap
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 USA
| | - John D. Meeker
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 USA
| | - Brisa N. Sánchez
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI USA
| | - Niladri Basu
- Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marcela Tamayo-Ortiz
- Center for Nutrition and Health Research, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos Mexico
- Mexican Council for Science and Technology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Maritsa Solano-González
- Center for Nutrition and Health Research, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos Mexico
| | - Adriana Mercado-García
- Center for Nutrition and Health Research, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos Mexico
| | - Martha M. Téllez-Rojo
- Center for Nutrition and Health Research, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos Mexico
| | - Karen E. Peterson
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 USA
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI USA
| | - Deborah J. Watkins
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 USA
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Earley BJ, Mendoza AD, Tan CH, Kornfeld K. Zinc homeostasis and signaling in the roundworm C. elegans. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2020; 1868:118882. [PMID: 33017595 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2020.118882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
C. elegans is a powerful model for studies of zinc biology. Here we review recent discoveries and emphasize the advantages of this model organism. Methods for manipulating and measuring zinc levels have been developed in or adapted to the worm. The C. elegans genome encodes highly conserved zinc transporters, and their expression and function are beginning to be characterized. Homeostatic mechanisms have evolved to respond to high and low zinc conditions. The pathway for high zinc homeostasis has been recently elucidated based on the discovery of the master regulator of high zinc homeostasis, HIZR-1. A parallel pathway for low zinc homeostasis is beginning to emerge based on the discovery of the Low Zinc Activation promoter element. Zinc has been established to play a role in two cell fate determination events, and accumulating evidence suggests zinc may function as a second messenger signaling molecule during vulval cell development and sperm activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J Earley
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110, United States of America
| | - Adelita D Mendoza
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110, United States of America
| | - Chieh-Hsiang Tan
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, 1200 E California Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91125, United States of America
| | - Kerry Kornfeld
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110, United States of America.
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Hu Q, Duncan FE, Nowakowski AB, Antipova OA, Woodruff TK, O'Halloran TV, Wolfner MF. Zinc Dynamics during Drosophila Oocyte Maturation and Egg Activation. iScience 2020; 23:101275. [PMID: 32615472 PMCID: PMC7330606 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2020.101275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Temporal fluctuations in zinc concentration are essential signals, including during oogenesis and early embryogenesis. In mammals, zinc accumulation and release are required for oocyte maturation and egg activation, respectively. Here, we demonstrate that zinc flux occurs in Drosophila oocytes and activated eggs, and that zinc is required for female fertility. Our synchrotron-based X-ray fluorescence microscopy reveals zinc as the most abundant transition metal in Drosophila oocytes. Its levels increase during oocyte maturation, accompanied by the appearance of zinc-enriched intracellular granules in the oocyte, which depend on transporters. Subsequently, in egg activation, which mediates the transition from oocyte to embryo, oocyte zinc levels decrease significantly, as does the number of zinc-enriched granules. This pattern of zinc dynamics in Drosophila oocytes follows a similar trajectory to that in mammals, extending the parallels in female gamete processes between Drosophila and mammals and establishing Drosophila as a model for dissecting reproductive roles of zinc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinan Hu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Andrew B Nowakowski
- The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA; Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Olga A Antipova
- X-ray Sciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL 60439, USA
| | - Teresa K Woodruff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA; Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA.
| | - Thomas V O'Halloran
- The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA; Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA; Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA.
| | - Mariana F Wolfner
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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11
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Woodruff TK. Lessons from bioengineering the ovarian follicle: a personal perspective. Reproduction 2020; 158:F113-F126. [PMID: 31846436 DOI: 10.1530/rep-19-0190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The ovarian follicle and its maturation captivated my imagination and inspired my scientific journey - what we know now about this remarkable structure is captured in this invited review. In the past decade, our knowledge of the ovarian follicle expanded dramatically as cross-disciplinary collaborations brought new perspectives to bear, ultimately leading to the development of extragonadal follicles as model systems with significant clinical implications. Follicle maturation in vitro in an 'artificial' ovary became possible by learning what the follicle is fundamentally and autonomously capable of - which turns out to be quite a lot. Progress in understanding and harnessing follicle biology has been aided by engineers and materials scientists who created hardware that enables tissue function for extended periods of time. The EVATAR system supports extracorporeal ovarian function in an engineered environment that mimics the endocrine environment of the reproductive tract. Finally, applying the tools of inorganic chemistry, we discovered that oocytes require zinc to mature over time - a truly new aspect of follicle biology with no antecedent other than the presence of zinc in sperm. Drawing on the tools and ideas from the fields of bioengineering, materials science and chemistry unlocked follicle biology in ways that we could not have known or even predicted. Similarly, how today's basic science discoveries regarding ovarian follicle maturation are translated to improve the experience of tomorrow's patients is yet to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa K Woodruff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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12
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Novakovic S, Molesworth LW, Gourley TE, Boag PR, Davis GM. Zinc transporters maintain longevity by influencing insulin/IGF-1 activity in Caenorhabditis elegans. FEBS Lett 2020; 594:1424-1432. [PMID: 31883120 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.13725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Adequate dietary intake of essential metals such as zinc is important for maintaining homeostasis. Abnormal zinc intake in Caenorhabditis elegans has been shown to increase or decrease normal lifespan by influencing the insulin/IGF-1 pathway. Distribution of zinc is achieved by a family of highly conserved zinc transport proteins (ZIPT in C. elegans). This study investigated the role of the zipt family of genes and showed that depletion of individual zipt genes results in a decreased lifespan. Moreover, zipt-16 and zipt-17 mutants synthetically interact with the insulin/IGF cofactors daf-16 and skn-1, and cause abnormal localisation of DAF-16. This study suggests that the zipt family of genes are required for maintaining normal lifespan through influencing the insulin/IGF-1 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stevan Novakovic
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Luke W Molesworth
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Federation University, Churchill, VIC, Australia
| | - Taylin E Gourley
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Federation University, Churchill, VIC, Australia
| | - Peter R Boag
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Gregory M Davis
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Federation University, Churchill, VIC, Australia
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Que EL, Duncan FE, Lee HC, Hornick JE, Vogt S, Fissore RA, O'Halloran TV, Woodruff TK. Bovine eggs release zinc in response to parthenogenetic and sperm-induced egg activation. Theriogenology 2018; 127:41-48. [PMID: 30639695 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.12.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Upon fertilization or parthenogenesis, zinc is released into the extracellular space through a series of exocytic events termed zinc sparks, which are tightly coordinated with intracellular calcium transients. The zinc spark reduces the total amount of intracellular zinc, and this reduction is necessary and sufficient to induce egg activation even in the absence of calcium transients. In addition, this zinc release contributes to the block to polyspermy through modification of the zona pellucida. The zinc spark has been documented in all organisms examined to date including the mouse, two species of nonhuman primates, and human. Here we determined whether zinc sparks occur in the bovine, an important model of gamete development in mono-ovulatory mammalian species. We obtained metaphase II-arrested (MII) bovine eggs following in vitro maturation. Total zinc, assessed in single cells using X-Ray Fluorescence Microscopy, was significantly more abundant in the bovine egg compared to iron and copper. Studies with intracellular fluorescent probes revealed that labile zinc pools are localized to discrete cytoplasmic punctae enriched at the cortex. To determine whether zinc undergoes dynamic fluxes during egg activation, we parthenogenetically activated bovine eggs using two approaches: ionomycin or bovine phospholipase C zeta (bPlcζ). Both these methods induced zinc sparks coordinately with intracellular calcium transients. The zinc spark was also observed in bovine eggs following intracytoplasmic sperm injection. These results establish that zinc is the most abundant transition metal in the bovine egg, and zinc flux during egg activation - induced by chemical activation or sperm - is a highly conserved event across mammalian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily L Que
- The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Hoi Chang Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Jessica E Hornick
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Stefan Vogt
- X-ray Sciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL, 60439, USA
| | - Rafael A Fissore
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA.
| | - Thomas V O'Halloran
- The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA; Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA; Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA.
| | - Teresa K Woodruff
- The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA; Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA.
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14
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Pinkas A, Lee KH, Chen P, Aschner M. A C. elegans Model for the Study of RAGE-Related Neurodegeneration. Neurotox Res 2018; 35:19-28. [PMID: 29869225 DOI: 10.1007/s12640-018-9918-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Revised: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The receptor for advanced glycation products (RAGE) is a cell surface, multi-ligand receptor belonging to the immunoglobulin superfamily; this receptor is implicated in a variety of maladies, via inflammatory pathways and induction of oxidative stress. Currently, RAGE is being studied using a limited number of mammalian in vivo, and some complementary in vitro, models. Here, we present a Caenorhabditis elegans model for the study of RAGE-related pathology: a transgenic strain, expressing RAGE in all neurons, was generated and subsequently tested behaviorally, developmentally, and morphologically. In addition to RAGE expression being associated with a significantly shorter lifespan, the following behavioral observations were made when RAGE-expressing worms were compared to the wild type: RAGE-expressing worms showed an impaired dopaminergic system, evaluated by measuring the fluorescent signal of GFP tagging; these worms exhibited decreased locomotion-both general and following ethanol exposure-as measured by counting body bends in adult worms; RAGE expression was also associated with impaired recovery of quiescence and pharyngeal pumping secondary to heat shock, as a significantly smaller fraction of RAGE-expressing worms engaged in these behaviors in the 2 h immediately following the heat shock. Finally, significant developmental differences were also found between the two strains: RAGE expression leads to a significantly smaller fraction of hatched eggs 24 h after laying and also to a significantly slower developmental speed overall. As evidence for the role of RAGE in a variety of neuropathologies accumulates, the use of this novel and expedient model should facilitate the elucidation of relevant underlying mechanisms and also the development of efficient therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adi Pinkas
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Jack and Pearl Resnick Campus, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Forchheimer Building, Room 209, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA.
| | - Kun He Lee
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Jack and Pearl Resnick Campus, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Forchheimer Building, Room 209, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| | - Pan Chen
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Jack and Pearl Resnick Campus, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Forchheimer Building, Room 209, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
| | - Michael Aschner
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Jack and Pearl Resnick Campus, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Forchheimer Building, Room 209, Bronx, NY, 10461, USA
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