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Hao EY, Liu XL, Chang LY, Xue H, Su BF, Chen YF, Wang DH, Shi L, Chen H. Melatonin alleviates endoplasmic reticulum stress to improve ovarian function by regulating the mTOR pathway in aged laying hens. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103703. [PMID: 38631228 PMCID: PMC11040121 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.103703] [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: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Granular cell apoptosis is a key factor leading to follicular atresia and decreased laying rate in aged laying hens. Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) induced cell apoptosis is a new type of apoptosis pathway. Previous studies have shown that the ERS pathway is involved in the regulation of follicular development and atresia, and can be regulated by mTOR. Melatonin (MEL) can protect the normal development of follicles, but the precise mechanism by which MEL regulates follicular development is not yet clear. So, we investigated the potential relationship between MEL and ERS and mTOR signaling pathway in vivo through intraperitoneal injection of MEL in aged laying hens. The results show that the laying rate, ovarian follicle number, plasma MEL, E2, LH, FSH concentrations, as well as the mRNA expression of mTOR signaling-associated genes TSC1, TSC2, mTOR, 4E-BP1, and S6K in old later-period chicken control (Old-CN) group was significantly decreased (P < 0.01). In contrast, the ERS-related of plasma and granular cell layer mRNA expression of Grp78, CHOP, and Caspase-3 was significantly increased (P < 0.01). While both of the effects were reversed by MEL. Then, aging granulosa cells were treated with MEL in vitro, followed by RNA seq analysis, and it was found that 259 and 322 genes were upregulated and downregulated. After performing GO enrichment analysis, it was found that DEGs significantly contribute to the biological processes including cell growth and apoptosis. Using pathway enrichment analysis, we found significant overrepresentation of cellular processes related to mTOR signaling and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, involving genes such as GRB10, SGK1, PRKCA, RPS6KA2, RAF1, PIK3R3, FOXO1, DERL3, HMOX1, TLR7, VAMP7 and INSIG2. The obtained results of RT-PCR showed consistency with the RNA-Seq data. In summary, the underlined results revealed that MEL has significantly contributed to follicular development via activating the mTOR signaling pathway-related genes and alleviating ERS-related genes in laying hens. The current study provides a theoretical background for enhancing the egg-laying capability of hens and also providing a basis for elucidating the molecular mechanism of follicular selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Er-Ying Hao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei 071001, China
| | - Xue-Lu Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei 071001, China
| | - Li-Yun Chang
- Tangshan Normal University, Tangshan, Hebei 063002, China
| | - Han Xue
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei 071001, China
| | - Bo-Fei Su
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei 071001, China
| | - Yi-Fan Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei 071001, China
| | - De-He Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei 071001, China
| | - Lei Shi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei 071001, China
| | - Hui Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei 071001, China.
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Hao EY, Liu XL, Chen XY, Xue H, Su BF, Chen YF, Wang DH, Shi L, Bai K, Hou F, Hou JK, Bao HL, Chen H. Melatonin alleviates endoplasmic reticulum stress and follicular granulosa cell apoptosis by regulating ATF4 to activate mTOR signaling pathway in chickens. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103656. [PMID: 38583308 PMCID: PMC11004419 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.103656] [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: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Follicular atresia in chickens reduces the number of follicles that can further develop, leading to decrease egg laying. Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) can initiate a unique pathway inducing the apoptosis of follicular granulosa cells, thus reducing egg laying. Melatonin (MEL) is involved in the regulation of follicle development, ovulation, and oocyte maturation, and is closely related to follicle fate. Mammalian target of Rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway plays an important role in cell growth regulation, and that there is a possible crosstalk between melatonin and mTOR activity in granular cells maturation and ovulation. This study aimed to investigate whether MEL inhibits ERS and follicular granulosa cell apoptosis by regulating ATF4 to activate mTOR signaling pathway in chickens. Frist, we established an in vitro ERS cell model using tunicamycin (TM). The results showed that different concentrations of TM exhibited dose-dependent inhibition of cell activity and induction of granulosa cells (P<0.01). Therefore, we chose 5 µg/mL of TM and a treatment time for 6 h as the optimal concentration for the following experiments. Then we investigate whether melatonin can inhibit ERS. TM treatment decreased the cell viability and Bcl-2 expression, increasing ROS levels and the mRNA expression of Grp78, ATF4, CHOP, PERK, eIF-2α, and BAX (P<0.01), whereas TM+MEL treatment significantly inhibited these changes (P<0.01). Then we explored whether melatonin protects follicular granulosa cells from ERS-induced apoptosis through the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway by regulating ATF4, we found that ATF4 knockdown inhibited ERS by decreasing the expression of ERS-related genes and proteins and activating mTOR signaling pathway by increasing the protein expression of p4E-BP1 and pT389-S6K (P<0.001), while these changes were promoted by TM+si-ATF4+MEL treatment (P<0.01). These results indicate that MEL could alleviate TM-induced ERS by regulating ATF4 to activate mTOR signaling pathway in follicular granulosa cells, thus providing a new perspective for prolonging the laying cycle in chickens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Er-Ying Hao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding Hebei 071001, China
| | - Xue-Lu Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding Hebei 071001, China
| | - Xiang-Yu Chen
- Baoding Livestock Husbandry Workstation, Baoding Hebei 071001, China
| | - Han Xue
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding Hebei 071001, China
| | - Bo-Fei Su
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding Hebei 071001, China
| | - Yi-Fan Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding Hebei 071001, China
| | - De-He Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding Hebei 071001, China
| | - Lei Shi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding Hebei 071001, China
| | - Kang Bai
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding Hebei 071001, China
| | - Fei Hou
- Shunping County Agriculture and Rural Affairs Bureau, Baoding Hebei 071001, China
| | - Jian-Ku Hou
- Shunping County Agriculture and Rural Affairs Bureau, Baoding Hebei 071001, China
| | - Hui-Ling Bao
- Animal Disease Prevention and Control Center, Shijiazhuang Hebei 050000, China
| | - Hui Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding Hebei 071001, China.
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Granados-Aparici S, Yang Q, Clarke HJ. SMAD4 promotes somatic-germline contact during murine oocyte growth. eLife 2024; 13:RP91798. [PMID: 38819913 PMCID: PMC11142639 DOI: 10.7554/elife.91798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Development of the mammalian oocyte requires physical contact with the surrounding granulosa cells of the follicle, which provide it with essential nutrients and regulatory signals. This contact is achieved through specialized filopodia, termed transzonal projections (TZPs), that extend from the granulosa cells to the oocyte surface. Transforming growth factor (TGFβ) family ligands produced by the oocyte increase the number of TZPs, but how they do so is unknown. Using an inducible Cre recombinase strategy together with expression of green fluorescent protein to verify Cre activity in individual cells, we examined the effect of depleting the canonical TGFβ mediator, SMAD4, in mouse granulosa cells. We observed a 20-50% decrease in the total number of TZPs in SMAD4-depleted granulosa cell-oocyte complexes, and a 50% decrease in the number of newly generated TZPs when the granulosa cells were reaggregated with wild-type oocytes. Three-dimensional image analysis revealed that TZPs of SMAD4-depleted cells were longer than controls and more frequently oriented towards the oocyte. Strikingly, the transmembrane proteins, N-cadherin and Notch2, were reduced by 50% in SMAD4-depleted cells. SMAD4 may thus modulate a network of cell adhesion proteins that stabilize the attachment of TZPs to the oocyte, thereby amplifying signalling between the two cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Granados-Aparici
- Research Institute, McGill University Health CentreMontrealCanada
- Present address: Cancer CIBER (CIBERONC)MadridSpain
- Present address: Pathology Department, Medical School, University of Valencia-INCLIVAValenciaSpain
| | - Qin Yang
- Research Institute, McGill University Health CentreMontrealCanada
| | - Hugh J Clarke
- Research Institute, McGill University Health CentreMontrealCanada
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Biology, Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill UniversityMontréalCanada
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Gao Z, He W, Liu Y, Gao Y, Fan W, Luo Y, Shi X, Song S. Perinatal bisphenol S exposure exacerbates the oxidative burden and apoptosis in neonatal ovaries by suppressing the mTOR/autophagy axis. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 349:123939. [PMID: 38593938 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Bisphenol S (BPS) is an emerging environmental endocrine disruptor capable of crossing the placental barrier, resulting in widespread exposure to pregnant women due to its extensive usage. However, the impact of perinatal maternal exposure to BPS on reproductive health in offspring and the underlying molecular mechanism remain underexplored. In this study, gestational ICR mice were provided with drinking water containing 3.33 mg/L BPS to mimic possible human exposure in some countries. Results demonstrated that BPS accelerated the breakdown of germ-cell cysts and the assembly of primordial follicles in neonates, leading to oocyte over-loss. Furthermore, the expression levels of folliculogenesis-related genes (Kit, Nobox, Gdf9, Sohlh2, Kitl, Bmp15, Lhx8, Figla, and Tgfb1) decreased, thus compromising oocyte quality and disrupting early folliculogenesis dynamics. BPS also disrupted other aspects of offspring reproduction, including advancing puberty onset, disrupting the estrus cycle, and impairing fertility. Further investigation found that BPS exposure inhibited the activities and expression levels of antioxidant-related enzymes in neonatal ovaries, leading to the substantial accumulation of MDA and ROS. The increased oxidative burden exacerbated the intracellular apoptotic signaling, manifested by increased expression levels of pro-apoptotic markers (Bax, Caspase 3, and Caspase 9) and decreased expression levels of anti-apoptotic marker (Bcl2). Concurrently, BPS inhibited autophagy by increasing p-mTOR/mTOR and decreasing p-ULK1/ULK1, subsequently down-regulating autophagy flux-related biomarkers (LC3b/LC3a and Beclin-1) and impeding the degradation of autophagy substrate p62. However, the imbalanced crosstalk between autophagy, apoptosis and oxidative stress homeostasis was restored after rapamycin treatment. Collectively, the findings demonstrated that BPS exposure induced reproductive disorders in offspring by perturbing the mTOR/autophagy axis, and such autophagic dysfunction exacerbated redox imbalance and promoted excessive apoptosis. These results provide novel mechanistic insights into the role of autophagy in mitigating BPS-induced intergenerational reproductive dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhangshan Gao
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wanqiu He
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yapei Liu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yixin Gao
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wentao Fan
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yan Luo
- Administration for Market Regulation of Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Supervision for Edible Agricultural Products, Shenzhen Centre of Inspection and Testing for Agricultural Products, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Xizhi Shi
- Key Laboratory of Aquacultural Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Suquan Song
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, Jiangsu Province, China.
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Suarez-Henriques P, Miranda E Silva-Chaves CD, Cardoso-Leite R, Guilermo-Ferreira R, Katiki LM, Louvandini H. Exploring AMH levels, homeostasis parameters, and ovarian primordial follicle activation in pubertal infected sheep on a high-protein diet. Res Vet Sci 2024; 169:105158. [PMID: 38295629 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2024.105158] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
"Exploring AMH Levels, Homeostasis and Primordial Follicle Activation in Pubertal Infected Sheep on a High Protein Diet ". The first activation wave of ovarian primordial follicles is part of the onset of puberty and fertility. Abomasal helminth infection may cause an undesirable delay in puberty manifestation. Helminth-infected animals demand a higher amount of protein in their diet to repair the damage caused by the parasite in sheep's tissues, replenish the blood losses, and build the host's immune response. Helminths become resistant to drug therapy shortly after being exposed to a new treatment. Besides, there is the possibility of contamination by anthelmintic drugs in ovine products, possibly affecting human health and the environment. This study's objective was to evaluate if ovarian and clinical parameters can be improved by supplementing their diet with protein, offering a more sustainable management approach than relying on anthelmintic usage. We used a 2 × 2 factorial model where eighteen ewe lambs (Ovis aries) between 6 and 7 months old - born to the same ram - were fed one of two diet protein levels (12% or 19%). After 35 days on this diet, they were infected or left uninfected with 10,000 Haemonchus contortus L3 larvae. We evaluated Anti-Mullerian Hormone serum levels, blood cells and biochemical parameters at four different time points. Following 42 days of infection and 77 days on the diet, the lambs had their left ovaries removed, and we examined ovarian morphometrics through histological analysis. The groups Supplemented Protein-Infected(n = 5), Control Protein- Infected(n = 5), Supplemented Protein-Not Infected (n = 4) and Control Protein-Not Infected (n = 4) did not differ in their bodyweight gain. In the factorial ANOVA analysis examining the relationship between plasma protein, diet, and infection, the protein level of the diet showed significance (p = 0.02). Primordial follicle size varied with the interaction between diet and infection (p < 0.05), and oocyte size was affected by the level of protein in the diet (p = 0.047). Additionally, to understand how all homeostasis parameters relate to the primordial follicle and oocyte size, we applied an explanatory linear mixed model. In conclusion, serum AMH levels remained stable despite the infection and variations in diet protein levels, indicating its reliability as a marker for ovarian reserve in pubertal sheep. The number of blood cells, biochemical parameters, and primordial follicle activation were affected by both diet and infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Suarez-Henriques
- Animal Science Department, ESALQ, University of São Paulo, Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Camila De Miranda E Silva-Chaves
- Laboratory of Animal Nutrition - Centre for Nuclear Energy in Agriculture, University of São Paulo, Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Rhainer Guilermo-Ferreira
- Biological Science Department, Federal University of Triangulo Mineiro, Uberaba, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | | | - Hélder Louvandini
- Laboratory of Animal Nutrition - Centre for Nuclear Energy in Agriculture, University of São Paulo, Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Zhou XY, Lai YH, Zhang J, Li Y, Wu XM, Yang YZ, Zhang XF, Ma LZ, Zheng KM, Liu YD, Wang Z, Chen SL. Advanced oxidation protein products attenuate the autophagy-lysosome pathway in ovarian granulosa cells by modulating the ROS-dependent mTOR-TFEB pathway. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:161. [PMID: 38383507 PMCID: PMC10881514 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06540-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Oxidative stress dysfunction has recently been found to be involved in the pathogenesis of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). Previously, we found that advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs) in plasma were elevated in women with POI and had an adverse effect on granulosa cell proliferation. However, the mechanism underlying the effects of AOPPs on autophagy-lysosome pathway regulation in granulosa cells remains unclear. In this study, the effect of AOPPs on autophagy and lysosomal biogenesis and the underlying mechanisms were explored by a series of in vitro experiments in KGN and COV434 cell lines. AOPP-treated rat models were employed to determine the negative effect of AOPPs on the autophagy-lysosome systems in vivo. We found that increased AOPP levels activated the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, and inhibited the autophagic response and lysosomal biogenesis in KGN and COV434 cells. Furthermore, scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS) with N-acetylcysteine and blockade of the mTOR pathway with rapamycin or via starvation alleviated the AOPP-induced inhibitory effects on autophagy and lysosomal biogenesis, suggesting that these effects of AOPPs are ROS-mTOR dependent. The protein expression and nuclear translocation of transcription factor EB (TFEB), the key regulator of lysosomal and autophagic function, were also impaired by the AOPP-activated ROS-mTOR pathway. In addition, TFEB overexpression attenuated the AOPP-induced impairment of autophagic flux and lysosomal biogenesis in KGN and COV434 cells. Chronic AOPP stimulation in vivo also impaired autophagy and lysosomal biogenesis in granulosa cells of rat ovaries. The results highlight that AOPPs lead to impairment of autophagic flux and lysosomal biogenesis via ROS-mTOR-TFEB signaling in granulosa cells and participate in the pathogenesis of POI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing-Yu Zhou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Yun-Hui Lai
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Ying Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Xiao-Min Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Yi-Zhen Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Xiao-Fei Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Lin-Zi Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Ke-Ming Zheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Yu-Dong Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Shi-Ling Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China.
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Zhang T, Lin H, Ren T, He M, Zheng W, Tong Y, Jin B, Xie K, Deng A, Liu S, Chen Y, Xu G, Chen T, Pan W, Xiao Z. ROCK1 is a multifunctional factor maintaining the primordial follicle reserve and follicular development in mice. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2024; 326:C27-C39. [PMID: 37661919 PMCID: PMC11192470 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00019.2023] [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: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
The follicle is the basic structural and functional unit of the ovary in female mammals. The excessive depletion of follicles will lead to diminished ovarian reserve or even premature ovarian failure, resulting in diminished ovarian oogenesis and endocrine function. Excessive follicular depletion is mainly due to loss of primordial follicles. Our analysis of published human ovarian single-cell sequencing results by others revealed a significant increase in rho-associated protein kinase 1 (ROCK1) expression during primordial follicle development. However, the role of ROCK1 in primordial follicle development and maintenance is not clear. This study revealed a gradual increase in ROCK1 expression during primordial follicle activation. Inhibition of ROCK1 resulted in reduced primordial follicle activation, decreased follicular reserve, and delayed development of growing follicles. This effect may be achieved through the HIPPO pathway. The present study indicates that ROCK1 is a key molecule for primordial follicular reserve and follicular development.NEW & NOTEWORTHY ROCK1, one of the Rho GTPases, plays an important role in primordial follicle reserve and follicular development. ROCK1 was primarily expressed in the cytoplasm of oocytes and granulosa cell in mice. Inhibition of ROCK1 significantly reduced the primordial follicle reserve and delayed growing follicle development. ROCK1 regulates primordial follicular reserve and follicle development through the HIPPO signaling pathway. These findings shed new lights on the physiology of sustaining female reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuo Zhang
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center in Guizhou Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis & Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Huan Lin
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianhe Ren
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Meina He
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenying Zheng
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuntong Tong
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Bangming Jin
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center in Guizhou Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis & Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Kaiyun Xie
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Ankang Deng
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Shiyu Liu
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuqian Chen
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Guoqiang Xu
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Tengxiang Chen
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center in Guizhou Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
- Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis & Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Pan
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center in Guizhou Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziwen Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, People's Republic of China
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8
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Erol S, Zırh S, Bozdag G, Sokmensuer LK, Muftuoglu SF. In vitro evaluation of exocytosis-associated SNARE molecules in human granulosa cells in polycystic ovary syndrome. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:49-61. [PMID: 37993579 PMCID: PMC10789710 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02967-w] [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: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Patients with polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM) make up 20% cases for assisted reproductive technology (ART). Folliculogenesis is impaired in PCOS. Signaling molecules are involved in follicle development. Dysregulations of intrafollicular environment and signaling molecules are observed in PCOS. Granulosa cells (GCs) and oocytes secrete molecules into follicular fluid by exocytosis of SNAREs. The aim of this study is to evaluate vesicle transport and vesicle fusion proteins (SNAREs) in GCs from PCOS patients who have undergone IVF treatment. METHODS Follicular fluids were collected from patients who undergo IVF/ICSI with the diagnosis of male factor (n = 10) and PCOS (n = 10) patients. GCs were separated and cultured. Each group of GCs was stimulated with FSH-hCG. The cells were examined under electron microscope. Immunofluorescent labeling was performed on cells for Stx6, SNAP25, StxBP1, FSHr, and KITL. Integrated density was analyzed from images of Stx6, SNAP25, StxBP1, FSHr, and KITL. RESULTS Intercellular communication occurs by signal molecules; Stx6, SNAP25, and StxBP1 fusion proteins involved in exocytosis were decreased in the GCs of PCOS. There was no increase in in vitro stimulation with FSH-hCG either. In the electron microscope, it was observed that exocytosis of the vesicles was disrupted. CONCLUSIONS Exocytosis and vesicular dynamics are among the basic physiological functions of human steroidogenic granulosa cells. Follicle development is necessary for production of competent oocytes and ovulation. Understanding the pathophysiology of PCOS at follicular level is important for disease management. According to our findings, deficits in vesicular dynamics of human granulosa cells in may be central to the treatment strategy for PCOS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suleyman Erol
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Selim Zırh
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Gurkan Bozdag
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Lale Karakoc Sokmensuer
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sevda F Muftuoglu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey.
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9
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Han C, Zeng Q, He L, Luan Z, Liu R, Zhang G, Liu W. Advances in the mechanisms related to follicle loss after frozen-thawed ovarian tissue transplantation. Transpl Immunol 2023; 81:101935. [PMID: 37739235 DOI: 10.1016/j.trim.2023.101935] [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: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Ovaries are important reproductive and endocrine organs in women. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation technology can not only solve the fertility problems of patients, but also may improve female endocrine problems. This is particularly important for patients in urgent need of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and for women with prepubertal malignant tumors. However, follicle loss after freeze-thawing is a key challenge for effective ovarian tissue transplantation and leads to poor transplant outcomes. Therefore, it is crucial to elucidate the mechanisms underlying follicle loss after transplantation. This paper reviews current research on the mechanisms of follicle loss after frozen-thawed ovarian tissue transplantation, including the activation, apoptosis, and pyroptosis mechanisms of primordialfollicles. Further, it highlights the requirement of more experimental studies for improving ovarian tissue transplantation methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changli Han
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610041, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Maternal and Child Health Hospital/Women and Children's Hospital Affiliated to Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu 610045, China
| | - Qin Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Maternal and Child Health Hospital/Women and Children's Hospital Affiliated to Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu 610045, China
| | - Libing He
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Maternal and Child Health Hospital/Women and Children's Hospital Affiliated to Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu 610045, China
| | - Zonghui Luan
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Maternal and Child Health Hospital/Women and Children's Hospital Affiliated to Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu 610045, China
| | - Ruyue Liu
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Maternal and Child Health Hospital/Women and Children's Hospital Affiliated to Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu 610045, China
| | - Guohui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Maternal and Child Health Hospital/Women and Children's Hospital Affiliated to Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu 610045, China.
| | - Weixin Liu
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 610041, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Sichuan Maternal and Child Health Hospital/Women and Children's Hospital Affiliated to Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu 610045, China.
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10
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Zhang CH, Liu XY, Wang J. Essential Role of Granulosa Cell Glucose and Lipid Metabolism on Oocytes and the Potential Metabolic Imbalance in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16247. [PMID: 38003436 PMCID: PMC10671516 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216247] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Granulosa cells are crucial for the establishment and maintenance of bidirectional communication among oocytes. Various intercellular material exchange modes, including paracrine and gap junction, are used between them to achieve the efficient delivery of granulosa cell structural components, energy substrates, and signaling molecules to oocytes. Glucose metabolism and lipid metabolism are two basic energy metabolism pathways in granulosa cells; these are involved in the normal development of oocytes. Pyruvate, produced by granulosa cell glycolysis, is an important energy substrate for oocyte development. Granulosa cells regulate changes in intrafollicular hormone levels through the processing of steroid hormones to control the development process of oocytes. This article reviews the material exchange between oocytes and granulosa cells and expounds the significance of granulosa cells in the development of oocytes through both glucose metabolism and lipid metabolism. In addition, we discuss the effects of glucose and lipid metabolism on oocytes under pathological conditions and explore its relationship to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). A series of changes were found in the endogenous molecules and ncRNAs that are related to glucose and lipid metabolism in granulosa cells under PCOS conditions. These findings provide a new therapeutic target for patients with PCOS; additionally, there is potential for improving the fertility of patients with PCOS and the clinical outcomes of assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Hua Zhang
- Queen Mary School, Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China; (C.-H.Z.); (X.-Y.L.)
| | - Xiang-Yi Liu
- Queen Mary School, Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China; (C.-H.Z.); (X.-Y.L.)
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
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11
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Telfer EE, Grosbois J, Odey YL, Rosario R, Anderson RA. Making a good egg: human oocyte health, aging, and in vitro development. Physiol Rev 2023; 103:2623-2677. [PMID: 37171807 PMCID: PMC10625843 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00032.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian eggs (oocytes) are formed during fetal life and establish associations with somatic cells to form primordial follicles that create a store of germ cells (the primordial pool). The size of this pool is influenced by key events during the formation of germ cells and by factors that influence the subsequent activation of follicle growth. These regulatory pathways must ensure that the reserve of oocytes within primordial follicles in humans lasts for up to 50 years, yet only approximately 0.1% will ever be ovulated with the rest undergoing degeneration. This review outlines the mechanisms and regulatory pathways that govern the processes of oocyte and follicle formation and later growth, within the ovarian stroma, through to ovulation with particular reference to human oocytes/follicles. In addition, the effects of aging on female reproductive capacity through changes in oocyte number and quality are emphasized, with both the cellular mechanisms and clinical implications discussed. Finally, the details of current developments in culture systems that support all stages of follicle growth to generate mature oocytes in vitro and emerging prospects for making new oocytes from stem cells are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn E Telfer
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Johanne Grosbois
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Yvonne L Odey
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Roseanne Rosario
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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12
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Zhou J, Lin L, Liu L, Wang J, Xia G, Wang C. The transcriptome reveals the molecular regulatory network of primordial follicle depletion in obese mice. Fertil Steril 2023; 120:899-910. [PMID: 37247688 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.05.165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the dynamic transcriptional regulatory network of primordial follicle fate in obese mice to elucidate the potential mechanism of primordial follicle depletion. DESIGN Experimental study and transcriptomic analysis. ANIMALS Healthy (n=15) and obese (n=15) female mice. INTERVENTIONS Six-week-old CD-1 mice were divided into healthy and high-fat diet groups and fed continuously for 12 weeks. The diet of healthy mice contained 10% fat. The diet of high-fat mice contained 60% fat. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Primordial to primary follicle transition rate, gene expression changes, enriched Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways, and ferroptosis. RESULTS Primordial follicle depletion was increased in the ovaries of obese mice. We found that deposited fat around primordial and primary follicles of obese mice was higher than that for healthy mice. The proliferation of granulosa cells around primary follicles was increased in obese mice. In addition, we uncovered specific gene signatures associated with the primordial to primary follicle transition (PPT) in obese mice using laser capture microdissection RNA sequencing analysis. Gene set enrichment analysis indicated that ferroptosis, cell oxidation, vascular endothelial growth factor, and mammalian target of rapamycin signaling were increased significantly in the primordial follicles of obese mice. Notably, the ferritin, acyl CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4, and solid carrier family 7 member 11 associated proteins of the ferroptosis signaling pathway were significantly increased in the PPT phase of obese mice. CONCLUSION Our work suggests that ferroptosis is a key pathway activated within immature ovarian follicles in the context of obesity and that the process may be involved in the physiological regulation of the PPT as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Longping Liu
- School of Life Sciences and Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Jianbin Wang
- School of Life Sciences and Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Guoliang Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, People's Republic of China.
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13
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Chang CL. Facilitation of Ovarian Response by Mechanical Force-Latest Insight on Fertility Improvement in Women with Poor Ovarian Response or Primary Ovarian Insufficiency. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14751. [PMID: 37834198 PMCID: PMC10573075 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The decline in fertility in aging women, especially those with poor ovarian response (POR) or primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), is a major concern for modern IVF centers. Fertility treatments have traditionally relied on gonadotropin- and steroid-hormone-based IVF practices, but these methods have limitations, especially for women with aging ovaries. Researchers have been motivated to explore alternative approaches. Ovarian aging is a complicated process, and the deterioration of oocytes, follicular cells, the extracellular matrix (ECM), and the stromal compartment can all contribute to declining fertility. Adjunct interventions that involve the use of hormones, steroids, and cofactors and gamete engineering are two major research areas aimed to improve fertility in aging women. Additionally, mechanical procedures including the In Vitro Activation (IVA) procedure, which combines pharmacological activators and fragmentation of ovarian strips, and the Whole Ovary Laparoscopic Incision (WOLI) procedure that solely relies on mechanical manipulation in vivo have shown promising results in improving follicle growth and fertility in women with POR and POI. Advances in the use of mechanical procedures have brought exciting opportunities to improve fertility outcomes in aging women with POR or POI. While the lack of a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms that lead to fertility decline in aging women remains a major challenge for further improvement of mechanical-manipulation-based approaches, recent progress has provided a better view of how these procedures promote folliculogenesis in the fibrotic and avascular aging ovaries. In this review, we first provide a brief overview of the potential mechanisms that contribute to ovarian aging in POI and POR patients, followed by a discussion of measures that aim to improve ovarian folliculogenesis in aging women. At last, we discuss the likely mechanisms that contribute to the outcomes of IVA and WOLI procedures and potential future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia Lin Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung University, Guishan, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
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14
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Chen W, E Q, Sun B, Zhang P, Li N, Fei S, Wang Y, Liu S, Liu X, Zhang X. PARP1-catalyzed PARylation of YY1 mediates endoplasmic reticulum stress in granulosa cells to determine primordial follicle activation. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:524. [PMID: 37582914 PMCID: PMC10427711 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05984-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
Although only a small number of primordial follicles are known to be selectively activated during female reproductive cycles, the mechanisms that trigger this recruitment remain largely uncharacterized. Misregulated activation of primordial follicles may lead to the exhaustion of the non-renewable pool of primordial follicles, resulting in premature ovarian insufficiency. Here, we found that poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) enzymatic activity in the surrounding granulosa cells (GCs) in follicles determines the subpopulation of the dormant primordial follicles to be awakened. Conversely, specifically inhibiting PARP1 in oocytes in an in vitro mouse follicle reconstitution model does not affect primordial follicle activation. Further analysis revealed that PARP1-catalyzed transcription factor YY1 PARylation at Y185 residue facilitates YY1 occupancy at Grp78 promoter, a key molecular chaperone of endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS), and promotes Grp78 transcription in GCs, which is required for GCs maintaining proper ERS during primordial follicle activation. Inhibiting PARP1 prevents the loss of primordial follicle pool by attenuating the excessive ERS in GCs under fetal bisphenol A exposure. Together, we demonstrate that PARP1 in GCs acts as a pivotal modulator to determine the fate of the primordial follicles and may represent a novel therapeutic target for the retention of primordial follicle pool in females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Qiukai E
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Bo Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
| | - Pengxue Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Nan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Shujia Fei
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yingnan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Shuting Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Xiaoqiu Liu
- College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China.
| | - Xuesen Zhang
- College of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China.
- Nanjing Medical University, Key Laboratory of Human Functional Genomics of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing, 211166, China.
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15
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Liu M, Xiao B, Zhu Y, Chen M, Huang J, Guo H, Wang F. MicroRNA-144-3p protects against chemotherapy-induced apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells and activation of primordial follicles by targeting MAP3K9. Eur J Med Res 2023; 28:264. [PMID: 37537658 PMCID: PMC10399062 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-023-01231-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Premature ovarian failure (POF) is defined by amenorrhea, ovarian atrophy, hypoestrogenism, elevated gonadotropin level, and infertility under the age of 40. POF is frequently induced by chemotherapeutic agents. However, the underlying mechanisms regarding chemotherapy-mediated damage to ovarian function are unclear. In this study, enhanced apoptosis of granulosa cells (GCs) and aberrant activation of primordial follicles were observed in a POF mouse model induced by cisplatin. We subsequently observed significant downregulation of miR-144-3p and upregulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase 9 (MAP3K9) in primary ovarian GCs from POF mice, as revealed by microarrays. Furthermore, MAP3K9 expression was higher in human ovarian granulosa cells (COV434) treated with cisplatin and was identified as a novel target of miR-144-3p. Functional analysis revealed that miR-144-3p attenuated cisplatin induced apoptosis of GCs via silencing MAP3K9 expression, which suppressed the activity of the downstream p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Meanwhile, miR-144-3p prevented premature primordial follicle depletion in cisplatin-induced POF mice through targeting Map3k9, which led to a decline in the phosphorylation and activation of the phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase b (AKT) pathway. Taken together, this study revealed the protective effects of miR-144-3p on ovarian function and shed light on the epigenetic regulatory mechanism in the development of POF, which might provide new biomarkers for the ovarian reserve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Liu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Bang Xiao
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Yiqing Zhu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Meiting Chen
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Jinfeng Huang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Haiyan Guo
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
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16
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Wang X, Zhou S, Wu Z, Liu R, Ran Z, Liao J, Shi H, Wang F, Chen J, Liu G, Liang A, Yang L, Zhang S, Li X, He C. The FSH-mTOR-CNP signaling axis initiates follicular antrum formation by regulating tight junction, ion pumps, and aquaporins. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105015. [PMID: 37414146 PMCID: PMC10424218 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105015] [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: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The initial formation of the follicular antrum (iFFA) serves as a dividing line between gonadotropin-independent and gonadotropin-dependent folliculogenesis, enabling the follicle to sensitively respond to gonadotropins for its further development. However, the mechanism underlying iFFA remains elusive. Herein, we reported that iFFA is characterized by enhanced fluid absorption, energy consumption, secretion, and proliferation and shares a regulatory mechanism with blastula cavity formation. By use of bioinformatics analysis, follicular culture, RNA interference, and other techniques, we further demonstrated that the tight junction, ion pumps, and aquaporins are essential for follicular fluid accumulation during iFFA, as a deficiency of any one of these negatively impacts fluid accumulation and antrum formation. The intraovarian mammalian target of rapamycin-C-type natriuretic peptide pathway, activated by follicle-stimulating hormone, initiated iFFA by activating tight junction, ion pumps, and aquaporins. Building on this, we promoted iFFA by transiently activating mammalian target of rapamycin in cultured follicles and significantly increased oocyte yield. These findings represent a significant advancement in iFFA research, further enhancing our understanding of folliculogenesis in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Wang
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Shanshan Zhou
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zian Wu
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ruiyan Liu
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zaohong Ran
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jianning Liao
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hongru Shi
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, USA
| | - Jianguo Chen
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Guoshi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Aixin Liang
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Liguo Yang
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Shujun Zhang
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiang Li
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Changjiu He
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction/Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Sciences and Technology/Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China.
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17
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Zhou Y, Guan J, Meng G, Fan W, Ge C, Niu C, Cheng Y, Fu Y, Lu Y, Wei Y. The RagA GTPase protects young egg chambers in Drosophila. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112631. [PMID: 37302067 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The preservation of female fertility under unfavorable conditions is essential for animal reproduction. Inhibition of the target of rapamycin complex 1 (TORC1) is indispensable for Drosophila young egg chamber maintenance under nutrient starvation. Here, we show that knockdown of RagA results in young egg chamber death independent of TORC1 hyperactivity. RagA RNAi ovaries have autolysosomal acidification and degradation defects, which make the young egg chambers sensitive to autophagosome augmentation. Meanwhile, RagA RNAi ovaries have nuclear-localized Mitf, which promotes autophagic degradation and protects young egg chambers under stress. Interestingly, GDP-bound RagA rescues autolysosome defects, while GTP-bound RagA rescues Mitf nuclear localization in RagA RNAi young egg chambers. Moreover, Rag GTPase activity, rather than TORC1 activity, controls Mitf cellular localization in the Drosophila germ line. Our work suggests that RagA separately controls autolysosomal acidification and Mitf activity in the Drosophila young egg chambers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhou
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Jianwen Guan
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Guoqiang Meng
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Weikang Fan
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Churui Ge
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Chunmei Niu
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Yang Cheng
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Yuanyuan Fu
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Yingying Lu
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Youheng Wei
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; Institute of Reproduction and Metabolism, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China.
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18
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Yao X, Wang C, Sun L, Yan L, Chen X, Lv Z, Xie X, Tian S, Liu W, Li L, Zhang H, Liu J. BCAS2 regulates granulosa cell survival by participating in mRNA alternative splicing. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:104. [PMID: 37248466 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01187-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Granulosa cell proliferation and differentiation are essential for follicle development. Breast cancer amplified sequence 2 (BCAS2) is necessary for spermatogenesis, oocyte development, and maintaining the genome integrity of early embryos in mice. However, the function of BCAS2 in granulosa cells is still unknown. RESULTS We show that conditional disruption of Bcas2 in granulosa cells caused follicle development failure; the ratio of the positive cells of the cell proliferation markers PCNA and Ki67 were unchanged in granulosa cells. Specific deletion of Bcas2 caused a decrease in the BrdU-positive cell ratio, cell cycle arrest, DNA damage, and an increase in apoptosis in granulosa cells, and RPA1 was abnormally stained in granulosa cells. RNA-seq results revealed that knockout of Bcas2 results in unusual expression of cellular senescence genes. BCAS2 participated in the PRP19 complex to mediate alternative splicing (AS) of E2f3 and Flt3l mRNA to inhibit the cell cycle. Knockout of Bcas2 resulted in a significant decrease in the ratio of BrdU-positive cells in the human granulosa-like tumour (KGN) cell line. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that BCAS2 may influence the proliferation and survival of granulosa cells through regulating pre-mRNA splicing of E2f3 and Flt3l by forming the splicing complex with CDC5L and PRP19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohong Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Chaofan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Longjie Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Lu Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xuexue Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Zheng Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xiaomei Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Shuang Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Wenbo Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Major Obstetric Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
| | - Hua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
| | - Jiali Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
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19
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Hu B, Wang R, Wu D, Long R, Ruan J, Jin L, Ma D, Sun C, Liao S. Prospects for fertility preservation: the ovarian organ function reconstruction techniques for oogenesis, growth and maturation in vitro. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1177443. [PMID: 37250136 PMCID: PMC10213246 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1177443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Today, fertility preservation is receiving more attention than ever. Cryopreservation, which preserves ovarian tissue to preserve fertility in young women and reduce the risk of infertility, is currently the most widely practiced. Transplantation, however, is less feasible for women with blood-borne leukemia or cancers with a high risk of ovarian metastasis because of the risk of cancer recurrence. In addition to cryopreservation and re-implantation of embryos, in vitro ovarian organ reconstruction techniques have been considered as an alternative strategy for fertility preservation. In vitro culture of oocytes in vitro Culture, female germ cells induction from pluripotent stem cells (PSC) in vitro, artificial ovary construction, and ovaria-related organoids construction have provided new solutions for fertility preservation, which will therefore maximize the potential for all patients undergoing fertility preservation. In this review, we discussed and thought about the latest ovarian organ function reconstruction techniques in vitro to provide new ideas for future ovarian disease research and fertility preservation of patients with cancer and premature ovarian failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bai Hu
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Renjie Wang
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Di Wu
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Rui Long
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinghan Ruan
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lei Jin
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ding Ma
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chaoyang Sun
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shujie Liao
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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20
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Zhang YY, Yang W, Zhang Y, Hu Z, Chen Y, Ma Y, Yang A, Shi Z, Zhou H, Ren P, Shi L, Jin J, Rong Y, Tong X, Zhang YL, Zhang S. HucMSC-EVs Facilitate In Vitro Development of Maternally Aged Preantral Follicles and Oocytes. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023:10.1007/s12015-022-10495-w. [PMID: 36862330 PMCID: PMC10366269 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-022-10495-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
Follicle developmental capacity and oocyte quality decline with advanced maternal age. Extracellular vesicles from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HucMSC-EVs) act as a potential therapeutic product in the treatment of age-related ovarian dysfunction. In vitro culture (IVC) of preantral follicles is a useful method for understanding the mechanism of follicle development and is a promising means for improving female fertility. However, whether HucMSC-EVs have beneficial effects on aged follicle development during IVC has not yet been reported. Our research demonstrated that follicular development with single-addition withdrawal of HucMSC-EVs was better than that with continuous treatment with HucMSC-EVs. HucMSC-EVs facilitated the survival and growth of follicles, promoted the proliferation of granulosa cells (GCs), and improved the steroid hormone secretion of GCs during IVC of aged follicles. Both GCs and oocytes could uptake HucMSC-EVs. Moreover, we observed elevated cellular transcription in GCs and oocytes after treatment with HucMSC-EVs. The RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) results further validated that the differentially expressed genes are related to the promotion of GC proliferation, cell communication, and oocyte spindle organization. Additionally, the aged oocytes displayed a higher maturation rate, presented less aberrant spindle morphology, and expressed a higher level of the antioxidant protein Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) after treatment with HucMSC-EVs. Our findings suggested that HucMSC-EVs can improve the growth and quality of aged follicles and oocytes in vitro through the regulation of gene transcription, which provides evidence for HucMSC-EVs as potential therapeutic reagents to restore female fertility with advanced age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Yi Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weijie Yang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhanhong Hu
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yingyan Chen
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yerong Ma
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Anran Yang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhan Shi
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hanjing Zhou
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Peipei Ren
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Libing Shi
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiamin Jin
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan Rong
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaomei Tong
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yin-Li Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Songying Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China.
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21
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Pellicer N, Cozzolino M, Diaz-García C, Galliano D, Cobo A, Pellicer A, Herraiz S. Ovarian rescue in women with premature ovarian insufficiency: facts and fiction. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 46:543-565. [PMID: 36710157 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The ovary has a comparatively short functional lifespan compared with other organs, and genetic and pathological injuries can further shorten its functional life. Thus, preserving ovarian function should be considered in the context of women with threats to ovarian reserve, such as ageing, premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) and diminished ovarian reserve (DOR). Indeed, one-third of women with POI retain resting follicles that can be reactivated to produce competent oocytes, as proved by the in-vitro activation of dormant follicles. This paper discusses mechanisms and clinical data relating to new therapeutic strategies using ovarian fragmentation, stem cells or platelet-rich plasma to regain ovarian function in women of older age (>38 years) or with POI or DOR. Follicle reactivation techniques show promising experimental outcomes and have been successful in some cases, when POI is established or DOR diagnosed; however, there is scarce clinical evidence to warrant their widespread clinical use. Beyond these contexts, also discussed is how new insights into the biological mechanisms governing follicular dynamics and oocyte competence may play a role in reversing ovarian damage, as no technique modifies oocyte quality. Additional studies should focus on increasing follicle number and quality. Finally, there is a small but important subgroup of women lacking residual follicles and requiring oocyte generation from stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - César Diaz-García
- IVI London, EGA Institute for Women's Health, UCL, London, UK; IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Ana Cobo
- IVI RMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- IVI RMA Rome, Rome, Italy; IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Sonia Herraiz
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain.
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22
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Abstract
In this chapter, we highlight examples of the diverse array of developmental, cellular, and biochemical insights that can be gained by using Drosophila melanogaster oogenesis as a model tissue. We begin with an overview of ovary development and adult oogenesis. Then we summarize how the adult Drosophila ovary continues to advance our understanding of stem cells, cell cycle, cell migration, cytoplasmic streaming, nurse cell dumping, and cell death. We also review emerging areas of study, including the roles of lipid droplets, ribosomes, and nuclear actin in egg development. Finally, we conclude by discussing the growing conservation of processes and signaling pathways that regulate oogenesis and female reproduction from flies to humans.
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23
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Zhou J, Lin L, Cai H, Liu L, Wang H, Zhang J, Xia G, Wang J, Wang F, Wang C. SP1 impacts the primordial to primary follicle transition by regulating cholesterol metabolism in granulosa cells. FASEB J 2023; 37:e22767. [PMID: 36624701 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202201274rr] [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: 08/06/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The primordial to primary follicle transition (PPT) in the ovary is critical to maintain sustainable reproductive resources in female mammals. However, it is unclear how granulosa cells (GCs) of the primary follicle participate in regulating PPT. This study focused on exploring the role of transcription factor Sp1 (SP1) in regulating PPT based on the fact that SP1 is pivotal for pregranulosa cell proliferation before primordial follicle formation. The results showed that mice fertility was prolonged when Sp1 was specifically depleted from GCs (GC- Sp1 -/- ). Besides, the PPT in GC- Sp1 -/- mice was reduced, resulting in more primordial follicles being preserved. Single-cell RNA-seq also indicated that the level of cholesterol metabolism was downregulated in GC- Sp1 -/- mice. Additionally, the PPT was promoted by either overexpression of ferredoxin-1 (FDX1), one of the key genes in mediating cholesterol metabolism or supplementing cholesterol for cultured fetal ovaries. Collectively, SP1 in GCs participates in the metabolism of cholesterol partially by regulating the transcription of Fdx1 during the PPT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Han Cai
- School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Longping Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Huarong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jingwen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Guoliang Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in Western China, School of Life Sciences, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Jianbin Wang
- School of Life Sciences and Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Fengchao Wang
- Transgenic Animal Center, National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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24
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Simulated microgravity reduces quality of ovarian follicles and oocytes by disrupting communications of follicle cells. NPJ Microgravity 2023; 9:7. [PMID: 36690655 PMCID: PMC9870914 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-023-00248-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian follicles are the fundamental structures that support oocyte development, and communications between oocytes and follicle somatic cells are crucial for oogenesis. However, it is unknown that whether exposure to microgravity influences cellular communications and ovarian follicle development, which might be harmful for female fertility. By 3D culturing of ovarian follicles under simulated microgravity (SMG) conditions in a rotating cell culture system, we found that SMG treatment did not affect the survival or general growth of follicles but decreased the quality of cultured follicles released oocytes. Ultrastructure detections by high-resolution imaging showed that the development of cellular communicating structures, including granulosa cell transzonal projections and oocyte microvilli, were markedly disrupted. These abnormalities caused chaotic polarity of granulosa cells (GCs) and a decrease in oocyte-secreted factors, such as Growth Differentiation Factor 9 (GDF9), which led to decreased quality of oocytes in these follicles. Therefore, the quality of oocytes was dramatically improved by the supplementations of GDF9 and NADPH-oxidase inhibitor apocynin. Together, our results suggest that exposure to simulated microgravity impairs the ultrastructure of ovarian follicles. Such impairment may affect female fertility in space environment.
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25
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Fiorentino G, Cimadomo D, Innocenti F, Soscia D, Vaiarelli A, Ubaldi FM, Gennarelli G, Garagna S, Rienzi L, Zuccotti M. Biomechanical forces and signals operating in the ovary during folliculogenesis and their dysregulation: implications for fertility. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:1-23. [PMID: 35856663 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Folliculogenesis occurs in the highly dynamic environment of the ovary. Follicle cyclic recruitment, neo-angiogenesis, spatial displacement, follicle atresia and ovulation stand out as major events resulting from the interplay between mechanical forces and molecular signals. Morphological and functional changes to the growing follicle and to the surrounding tissue are required to produce oocytes capable of supporting preimplantation development to the blastocyst stage. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review will summarize the ovarian morphological and functional context that contributes to follicle recruitment, growth and ovulation, as well as to the acquisition of oocyte developmental competence. We will describe the changes occurring during folliculogenesis to the ovarian extracellular matrix (ECM) and to the vasculature, their influence on the mechanical properties of the ovarian tissue, and, in turn, their influence on the regulation of signal transduction. Also, we will outline how their dysregulation might be associated with pathologies such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis or premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). Finally, for each of these three pathologies, we will highlight therapeutic strategies attempting to correct the altered biomechanical context in order to restore fertility. SEARCH METHODS For each area discussed, a systematic bibliographical search was performed, without temporal limits, using PubMed Central, Web of Science and Scopus search engines employing the keywords extracellular matrix, mechanobiology, biomechanics, vasculature, angiogenesis or signalling pathway in combination with: ovary, oogenesis, oocyte, folliculogenesis, ovarian follicle, theca, granulosa, cumulus, follicular fluid, corpus luteum, meiosis, oocyte developmental competence, preimplantation, polycystic ovary syndrome, premature ovarian insufficiency or endometriosis. OUTCOMES Through search engines queries, we yielded a total of 37 368 papers that were further selected based on our focus on mammals and, specifically, on rodents, bovine, equine, ovine, primates and human, and also were trimmed around each specific topic of the review. After the elimination of duplicates, this selection process resulted in 628 papers, of which 287 were cited in the manuscript. Among these, 89.2% were published in the past 22 years, while the remaining 8.0%, 2.4% or 0.3% were published during the 1990s, 1980s or before, respectively. During folliculogenesis, changes occur to the ovarian ECM composition and organization that, together with vasculature modelling around the growing follicle, are aimed to sustain its recruitment and growth, and the maturation of the enclosed oocyte. These events define the scenario in which mechanical forces are key to the regulation of cascades of molecular signals. Alterations to this context determine impaired folliculogenesis and decreased oocyte developmental potential, as observed in pathological conditions which are causes of infertility, such as PCOS, endometriosis or POI. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The knowledge of these mechanisms and the rules that govern them lay a sound basis to explain how follicles recruitment and growth are modulated, and stimulate insights to develop, in clinical practice, strategies to improve follicular recruitment and oocyte competence, particularly for pathologies like PCOS, endometriosis and POI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Fiorentino
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Center for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | | | - Daria Soscia
- Clinica Valle Giulia, GeneraLife IVF, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Gianluca Gennarelli
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant'Anna Hospital, University of Torino, Turin, Italy.,Livet, GeneraLife IVF, Turin, Italy
| | - Silvia Garagna
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Center for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Laura Rienzi
- Clinica Valle Giulia, GeneraLife IVF, Rome, Italy.,Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino, Italy
| | - Maurizio Zuccotti
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Center for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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26
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Zhang T, He M, Zhang J, Tong Y, Chen T, Wang C, Pan W, Xiao Z. Mechanisms of primordial follicle activation and new pregnancy opportunity for premature ovarian failure patients. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1113684. [PMID: 36926197 PMCID: PMC10011087 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1113684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Primordial follicles are the starting point of follicular development and the basic functional unit of female reproduction. Primordial follicles are formed around birth, and most of the primordial follicles then enter a dormant state. Since primordial follicles are limited in number and can't be renewed, dormant primordial follicles cannot be reversed once they enter the growing state. Thus, the orderly occurrence of primordial follicles selective activation directly affects the rate of follicle consumption and thus determines the length of female reproductive lifespan. Studies have found that appropriately inhibiting the activation rate of primordial follicles can effectively slow down the rate of follicle consumption, maintain fertility and delay ovarian aging. Based on the known mechanisms of primordial follicle activation, primordial follicle in vitro activation (IVA) technique has been clinically developed. IVA can help patients with premature ovarian failure, middle-aged infertile women, or infertile women due to gynecological surgery treatment to solve infertility problems. The study of the mechanism of selective activation of primordial follicles can contribute to the development of more efficient and safe IVA techniques. In this paper, recent mechanisms of primordial follicle activation and its clinical application are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuo Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.,Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Prenatal Diagnosis Center in Guizhou Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China.,College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Meina He
- College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Yuntong Tong
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Tengxiang Chen
- Transformation Engineering Research Center of Chronic Disease Diagnosis and Treatment, Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,College of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenesis and Drug Research on Common Chronic Diseases, Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China.,Guizhou Institute of Precision Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Chao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Pan
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center in Guizhou Province, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
| | - Ziwen Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, China
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27
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Dong L, Teh DBL, Kennedy BK, Huang Z. Unraveling female reproductive senescence to enhance healthy longevity. Cell Res 2023; 33:11-29. [PMID: 36588114 PMCID: PMC9810745 DOI: 10.1038/s41422-022-00718-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In a society where women often want successful careers and equal opportunities to men, the early nature of ovarian aging often forces women to make difficult life choices between career and family development. Fertility in women begins to decline after the age of 37 years and it is rare for pregnancies to occur after 45. This reproductive decline in women is inevitable and culminates in menopause, which is a major driver of age-related diseases. In a world where biomedical advances are leading to modifiable biological outcomes, it is time to focus on mitigating female reproductive senescence to maintain fertility and preserve age-related hormonal functions, with the goal of providing increased life choices and enhancing healthspan. To date, reproductive longevity research remains an understudied field. More needs to be done to unravel the biology of the ovarian follicles, which are the functional units of reproductive lifespan and are comprised of cell types including the oocyte (female gamete) and a group of specialized supporting somatic cells. Biological attempts to maintain the quality and quantity of follicles in animal models through manipulating pathways involved in aging can potentially prolong female reproductive lifespan and healthspan. Here, we summarize the molecular events driving ovarian aging and menopause and the interventional strategies to offset these events. Developing solutions to female reproductive senescence will open doors to discover ways to enhance true healthy longevity for both men and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Dong
- Integrative Sciences and Engineering Programme, NUS Graduate School, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- NUS Healthy Longevity Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Daniel Boon Loong Teh
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- NUS Bia Echo Asia Centre for Reproductive Longevity and Equality, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Brian Keith Kennedy
- Integrative Sciences and Engineering Programme, NUS Graduate School, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
- NUS Healthy Longevity Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
- NUS Bia Echo Asia Centre for Reproductive Longevity and Equality, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Zhongwei Huang
- NUS Bia Echo Asia Centre for Reproductive Longevity and Equality, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore.
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28
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Wang Y, Zhang J, Liang J, Jia L, Niu S, Cheng K, Yang C, Lu Z, Mu L, Yang X, Zhang Y, Zhang H. In vivo promotion of primordial follicle activation by stem cell factor treatment in mice with premature ovarian insufficiency and advanced age. Mol Hum Reprod 2022; 29:6881085. [PMID: 36477300 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaac041] [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: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dormant primordial follicles (PFs) are the most abundant reproductive resource in mammalian ovaries. With advances in the mechanism of study of the regulation of PF activation, PFs have been used to improve fertility in clinical practice. As a central controlling element of follicle activation signaling, the pre-granulosa cell-secreted stem cell factor (SCF; also known as KIT ligand, KITL), which initiates the growth of dormant oocytes, is an ideal natural activator that stimulates follicle activation. However, no systematic study has been conducted to identify the activating effect of SCF in vivo and in vitro. In this study, by combining an in vitro whole ovary culture system and several mouse models, we provide a series of experimental evidence that SCF is an efficient activator for improving PF activation in mouse ovaries. Our in vitro study showed that SCF increased phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling and PF activation ratio in neonatal ovaries. In vivo ovarian non-invasive topical administrations of SCF to the ovaries efficiently improved follicle activation and development, oocyte retrieval ratio and fertility in inducible premature ovarian insufficiency mouse models and aged mice. Our study suggests that SCF is an efficient growth factor that can be applied to improve PF activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yibo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiawei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Department of Nutrition and Health (Institute of Nutrition and Health), China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Longzhong Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Shudong Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Kaixin Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Chen Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zining Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Lu Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Xuebing Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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29
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Repeated Superovulation Accelerates Primordial Follicle Activation and Atresia. Cells 2022; 12:cells12010092. [PMID: 36611886 PMCID: PMC9818786 DOI: 10.3390/cells12010092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
For humans, ARTs (assisted reproductive technologies) have become the most effective method to treat subfertility/infertility in clinic. To obtain enough oocytes during ART, ovarian stimulation is performed by exogenous hormones, and some patients undergo several ovarian stimulation cycles. Although some adverse effects of ARTs on women and offspring are reported, few studies are focused on the effects of multiple superovulation on ovarian reserve. In the present study, we found that repeated superovulation significantly reduced primordial follicle number and the serum AMH. Compared to the decreased antral follicle number, the expression of genes related to primordial follicle activation, such as Foxo3, Akt, and Rptor, and the atretic follicle number in ovaries were increased by superovulation times. We further found that repeated superovulation reduced the plasma level of FSH, LH, and estradiol, and increased the expression of genes related to apoptosis (Bax, Casp3 (caspase-3), Casp8, and Casp9) in granulosa cells, providing evidence that repeated superovulation disrupted the balance between survival and death in granulosa cells. In summary, our results suggest that repeated superovulation has adverse effects on folliculogenesis.
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30
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Xu B, Li Z, Li S, Ke H, Zhang Q, Qin Y, Guo T. Pathogenic variants in TSC2 might cause premature ovarian insufficiency through activated mTOR induced hyperactivation of primordial follicles. Fertil Steril 2022; 118:1139-1149. [PMID: 36229297 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.08.853] [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: 09/19/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the role of tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) genes, including TSC1 and TSC2, in the pathogenesis of human premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). DESIGN Genetic and functional study. SETTING University-based reproductive medical center. PATIENT(S) Six patients from a cohort of 1,030 cases with idiopathic POI. INTERVENTION(S) Variants in TSC1 and TSC2 were screened through the largest in-house database of whole exome sequencing performed in 1,030 patients with idiopathic POI. The pathogenic effects of the variants were further verified by functional studies. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) TSC1 or TSC2 variant and functional characteristics. RESULT(S) Five pathogenic heterozygous variants in TSC2 were identified in 6 patients with POI. Functional studies showed these variants impaired the repressive effect of TSC2 on mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway by disrupting the formation of TSC complex or its GTPase-activating protein activity. Furthermore, in vitro ovarian culture assay showed that TSC2 p.R98Q led to hyperactivation of mTOR pathway thereby triggering primordial follicle activation. CONCLUSION(S) The present study identified pathogenic variants of TSC2 in patients with POI, firstly suggested defective TSC/mTOR pathway mediated hyperactivation of primordial follicle participating in the pathogenesis of POI, giving insights into new targets of genetic counseling and clinical prevention for POI. Considering the pivotal role of TSC2 variants in diagnosis of TSC syndrome, the present study also highlighted the importance of history collection and long-term follow-up for the TSC2 variants carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingying Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhuqing Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Shan Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Hanni Ke
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingying Qin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting Guo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
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31
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Chen YY, Chen S, Ok K, Duncan FE, O’Halloran TV, Woodruff TK. Zinc dynamics regulate early ovarian follicle development. J Biol Chem 2022; 299:102731. [PMID: 36423685 PMCID: PMC9800340 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Zinc fluctuations regulate key steps in late oocyte and preimplantation embryo development; however, roles for zinc in preceding stages in early ovarian follicle development, when cooperative interactions exist between the oocyte and somatic cells, are unknown. To understand the roles of zinc during early follicle development, we applied single cell X-ray fluorescence microscopy, a radioactive zinc tracer, and a labile zinc probe to measure zinc in individual mouse oocytes and associated somatic cells within early follicles. Here, we report a significant stage-specific increase and compartmental redistribution in oocyte zinc content upon the initiation of early follicle growth. The increase in zinc correlates with the increased expression of specific zinc transporters, including two that are essential in oocyte maturation. While oocytes in follicles exhibit high tolerance to pronounced changes in zinc availability, somatic survival and proliferation are significantly more sensitive to zinc chelation or supplementation. Finally, transcriptomic, proteomic, and zinc loading analyses reveal enrichment of zinc targets in the ubiquitination pathway. Overall, these results demonstrate that distinct cell type-specific zinc regulations are required for follicle growth and indicate that physiological fluctuation in the localization and availability of this inorganic cofactor has fundamental functions in early gamete development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ying Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Si Chen
- X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, Illinois, USA
| | - Kiwon Ok
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Francesca E. Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Thomas V. O’Halloran
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA,Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA,Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA,The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA,For correspondence: Thomas V. O’Halloran; Teresa K. Woodruff
| | - Teresa K. Woodruff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA,For correspondence: Thomas V. O’Halloran; Teresa K. Woodruff
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32
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Gonfloni S, Jodice C, Gustavino B, Valentini E. DNA Damage Stress Response and Follicle Activation: Signaling Routes of Mammalian Ovarian Reserve. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214379. [PMID: 36430860 PMCID: PMC9693393 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy regimens and radiotherapy are common strategies to fight cancer. In women, these therapies may cause side effects such as premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) and infertility. Clinical strategies to protect the ovarian reserve from the lethal effect of cancer therapies needs better understanding of the mechanisms underlying iatrogenic loss of follicle reserve. Recent reports demonstrate a critical role for p53 and CHK2 in the oocyte response to different DNA stressors, which are commonly used to treat cancer. Here we review the molecular mechanisms underlying the DNA damage stress response (DDR) and discuss crosstalk between DDR and signaling pathways implicated in primordial follicle activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Gonfloni
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Carla Jodice
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Bianca Gustavino
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Elvia Valentini
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Della Ricerca Scientifica, 00133 Rome, Italy
- PhD Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, 00133 Rome, Italy
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33
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Clarke HJ. Transzonal projections: Essential structures mediating intercellular communication in the mammalian ovarian follicle. Mol Reprod Dev 2022; 89:509-525. [PMID: 36112806 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The development of germ cells relies on contact and communication with neighboring somatic cells that provide metabolic support and regulatory signals. In females, contact is achieved through thin cytoplasmic processes that project from follicle cells surrounding the oocyte, extend through an extracellular matrix (ECM) that lies between them, and reach its surface. In mammals, the ECM is termed the zona pellucida and the follicular cell processes are termed transzonal projections (TZPs). TZPs become detectable when the zona pellucida is laid down during early folliculogenesis and subsequently increase in number as oocyte growth progresses. They then rapidly disappear at the time of ovulation, permanently breaking germ-soma contact. Here we review the life cycle and functions of the TZPs. We begin with an overview of the morphology and cytoskeletal structure of TZPs, in the context of actin- and tubulin-based cytoplasmic processes in other cell types. Next, we review the roles played by TZPs in mediating progression through successive stages of oocyte development. We then discuss two mechanisms that may generate TZPs-stretching at pre-existing points of granulosa cell-oocyte contact and elaboration of new processes that push through the zona pellucida-as well as gene products implicated in their formation or function. Finally, we describe the signaling pathways that cause TZPs to be retracted in response to signals that also trigger meiotic maturation and ovulation of the oocyte. The principles and mechanisms that govern TZP behavior may be relevant to understanding communication between physically separated cells in other physiological contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugh J Clarke
- Program in Child Health and Human Development, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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34
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Di Berardino C, Peserico A, Capacchietti G, Zappacosta A, Bernabò N, Russo V, Mauro A, El Khatib M, Gonnella F, Konstantinidou F, Stuppia L, Gatta V, Barboni B. High-Fat Diet and Female Fertility across Lifespan: A Comparative Lesson from Mammal Models. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14204341. [PMID: 36297035 PMCID: PMC9610022 DOI: 10.3390/nu14204341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Female reproduction focuses mainly on achieving fully grown follicles and competent oocytes to be successfully fertilized, as well as on nourishing the developing offspring once pregnancy occurs. Current evidence demonstrates that obesity and/or high-fat diet regimes can perturbate these processes, leading to female infertility and transgenerational disorders. Since the mechanisms and reproductive processes involved are not yet fully clarified, the present review is designed as a systematic and comparative survey of the available literature. The available data demonstrate the adverse influences of obesity on diverse reproductive processes, such as folliculogenesis, oogenesis, and embryo development/implant. The negative reproductive impact may be attributed to a direct action on reproductive somatic and germinal compartments and/or to an indirect influence mediated by the endocrine, metabolic, and immune axis control systems. Overall, the present review highlights the fragmentation of the current information limiting the comprehension of the reproductive impact of a high-fat diet. Based on the incidence and prevalence of obesity in the Western countries, this topic becomes a research challenge to increase self-awareness of dietary reproductive risk to propose solid and rigorous preventive dietary regimes, as well as to develop targeted pharmacological interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Di Berardino
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Alessia Peserico
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Giulia Capacchietti
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Alex Zappacosta
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Nicola Bernabò
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), National Research Council, A. Buzzati-Traverso Campus, via E. Ramarini 32, Monterotondo Scalo, 00015 Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Russo
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Annunziata Mauro
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Mohammad El Khatib
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Francesca Gonnella
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
- Department of Psychological Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Unit of Molecular Genetics, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Fani Konstantinidou
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
- Department of Psychological Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Unit of Molecular Genetics, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Liborio Stuppia
- Department of Psychological Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Unit of Molecular Genetics, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Valentina Gatta
- Department of Psychological Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Unit of Molecular Genetics, Center for Advanced Studies and Technology (CAST), “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Barbara Barboni
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
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35
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Pan P, Huang X. The Clinical Application of Growth Hormone and Its Biological and Molecular Mechanisms in Assisted Reproduction. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810768. [PMID: 36142677 PMCID: PMC9505823 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Growth hormone (GH) has been used as a co-gonadotrophin in assisted reproduction, particularly in poor ovarian responders. The application of GH has been alleged to activate primordial follicles and improve oocyte quality, embryo quality, and steroidogenesis. However, the effects of GH on the live birth rate among women is controversial. Additionally, although the basic biological mechanisms that lead to the above clinical differences have been investigated, they are not yet well understood. The actions of GH are mediated by GH receptors (GHRs) or insulin-like growth factors (IGFs). GH regulates the vital signal transduction pathways that are involved in primordial follicular activation, steroidogenesis, and oocyte maturation. However, the therapeutic windows and duration of GH administration during assisted reproductive technology require further investigation. The review aimed to clarify the role of GH in human fertility from a molecular and biological point of view to provide evidence for proper GH administration.
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36
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Barberino RS, Macedo TJS, Lins TLBG, Menezes VG, Silva RLS, Monte APO, Palheta RC, Smitz JEJ, Matos MHT. Immunolocalization of melatonin receptor type 1 in the sheep ovary and involvement of the PI3K/Akt/FOXO3a signaling pathway in the effects of melatonin on survival and in vitro activation of primordial follicles. Mol Reprod Dev 2022; 89:485-497. [PMID: 35943024 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
This study characterized the expression of melatonin receptor type 1 (MT1 ) protein in sheep ovaries, evaluated melatonin effects on primordial follicle survival and development after in vitro culture of ovarian tissue and verified the possible involvement of the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B/forkhead box O3a (PI3K/Akt/FOXO3a) pathway in the melatonin actions. Ovine ovarian fragments were cultured in α-modified minimum essential medium alone (α-MEM+ ) or supplemented with 100, 500, or 1000 pg/ml melatonin for 7 days. PI3K inhibition was performed through pretreatment of ovarian fragments with LY294002. Thereafter, immunohistochemistry was performed to evaluate the expression of cleaved caspase-3, Akt, phosphorylated-Akt, and phosphorylated-FOXO3a (p-FOXO3a). The immunohistochemical localization of the MT1 receptor protein was documented in sheep preantral and antral follicles. After in vitro culture, 100 pg/ml melatonin showed higher follicular survival and activation than α-MEM+ and other melatonin concentrations. After PI3K inhibition, there was an increase in cleaved caspase-3-positive follicles, and a decrease in the primordial follicle activation, Akt phosphorylation, and nuclear exclusion of p-FOXO3a. In conclusion, MT1 receptor protein is present in the sheep ovary. Furthermore, 100 pg/ml melatonin maintains survival and stimulates activation of primordial follicles through the PI3K/Akt/FOXO3a signaling pathway after in vitro culture of sheep ovarian tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricássio S Barberino
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Taís J S Macedo
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Thae Lanne B G Lins
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Vanúzia G Menezes
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Regina L S Silva
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Alane P O Monte
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Raimundo C Palheta
- Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmacology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
| | - Johan E J Smitz
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Free University Brussels - VUB, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Maria Helena T Matos
- Nucleus of Biotechnology Applied to Ovarian Follicle Development, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of São Francisco Valley - UNIVASF, Petrolina, Brazil
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Chen YY, Russo DD, Drake RS, Duncan FE, Shalek AK, Goods BA, Woodruff TK. Single-cell transcriptomics of staged oocytes and somatic cells reveal novel regulators of follicle activation. Reproduction 2022; 164:55-70. [PMID: 35899878 PMCID: PMC9354060 DOI: 10.1530/rep-22-0053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In brief Proper development of ovarian follicles, comprised of an oocyte and surrounding somatic cells, is essential to support female fertility and endocrine health. Here, we describe a method to isolate single oocytes and somatic cells from the earliest stage follicles, called primordial follicles, and we characterize signals that drive their activation. Abstract Primordial follicles are the first class of follicles formed in the mammalian ovary and are comprised of an oocyte surrounded by a layer of squamous pre-granulosa cells. This developmental class remains in a non-growing state until individual follicles activate to initiate folliculogenesis. What regulates the timing of follicle activation and the upstream signals that govern these processes are major unanswered questions in ovarian biology. This is partly due to the paucity of data on staged follicle cells since isolating and manipulating individual oocytes and somatic cells from early follicle stages are challenging. To date, most studies on isolated primordial follicles have been conducted on cells collected from animal-age- or oocyte size-specific samples, which encompass multiple follicular stages. Here, we report a method for collecting primordial follicles and their associated oocytes and somatic cells from neonatal murine ovaries using liberase, DNase I, and Accutase. This methodology allows for the identification and collection of follicles immediately post-activation enabling unprecedented interrogation of the primordial-to-primary follicle transition. Molecular profiling by single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that processes including organelle disassembly and cadherin binding were enriched in oocytes and somatic cells as they transitioned from primordial to the primary follicle stage. Furthermore, targets including WNT4, TGFB1, FOXO3, and a network of transcription factors were identified in the transitioning oocytes and somatic cells as potential upstream regulators that collectively may drive follicle activation. Taken together, we have developed a more precise characterization and selection method for studying staged-follicle cells, revealing several novel regulators of early folliculogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ying Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Daniela D Russo
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Institute of Medical Science and Engineering, Department of Chemistry, and Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Riley S Drake
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Institute of Medical Science and Engineering, Department of Chemistry, and Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Alex K Shalek
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Institute of Medical Science and Engineering, Department of Chemistry, and Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Brittany A Goods
- The Thayer School of Engineering, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Teresa K Woodruff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
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Tai Y, Yang X, Han D, Xu Z, Cai G, Hao J, Zhang B, Deng X. Transcriptomic diversification of granulosa cells during follicular development between White Leghorn and Silky Fowl hens. Front Genet 2022; 13:965414. [PMID: 35957698 PMCID: PMC9360743 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.965414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Egg production rate in chicken is related to the continuity of follicle development. In this study, we found that the numbers of white prehierarchical, dominant, and yellow preovulatory follicles in the high-yielding layer breed, White Leghorn (WL), were significantly higher than those in the low egg-yielding variety, Silky Fowl (SF). The proliferation and differentiation of granulosa cells (GCs) play an important role in follicle maturation. Histological observation revealed a large number of melanocytes in the outer granulosa layer of follicles in SF but not in WL. Finally, RNA-sequencing was used to analyze the gene expression profiles and pathways of the GC layer in the follicles in both WL and SF hens. Transcriptome analysis of prehierarchical GCs (phGCs) and preovulatory GCs (poGCs) between WL and SF showed that steroid hormone-, oxytocin synthesis-, tight junction-, and endocytosis-related genes were expressed at higher levels in WL phGCs than in SF phGCs, whereas the insulin signaling pathway- and vascular smooth muscle contraction-related genes were upregulated in SF phGCs. Fatty acid synthesis, calcium signaling, and Wnt signaling pathway-related genes were expressed at higher levels in WL poGCs than in SF poGCs; however, adrenergic signaling, cGMP-PKG, and melanogenesis-related genes were upregulated in SF poGCs. These results indicate that genes that promote GC proliferation and secretion of various sex hormones are more active in WL than in SF hens. The upregulated signaling pathways in SF help in providing energy to GCs and for angiogenesis and melanogenesis. In vitro experiments confirmed that both the proliferation of poGCs and synthesis of reproductive hormones were higher in WL than in SF hens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yurong Tai
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture & Beijing Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Xue Yang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture & Beijing Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Deping Han
- College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zihan Xu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture & Beijing Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Ganxian Cai
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture & Beijing Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaqi Hao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture & Beijing Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Bingjie Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture & Beijing Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Xuemei Deng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of the Ministry of Agriculture & Beijing Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic Improvement, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Hainan Sanya Research Institute, Seed Laboratory, Sanya, China
- *Correspondence: Xuemei Deng,
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39
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Li B, Wang W, Huang Y, Han L, Li J, Zheng N, Wu Z, Zhang X, Li X, Deng L, Lin M, Chen X, Zhang M. Lithium treatment promotes the activation of primordial follicles through PI3K/Akt signaling. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:1059-1071. [PMID: 35871551 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
In mammals, dormant primordial follicles represent the ovarian reserve throughout reproductive life. In vitro activation of dormant primordial follicles has been used to treat patients with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). However, there remains a lack of effective strategies to stimulate follicle activation in vivo. In this study, we used an in vitro ovarian culture system and intraperitoneal injection to study the effect of lithium treatment on primordial follicle activation. Lithium increased the number of growing follicles in cultured mouse ovaries and promoted pre-granulosa cell proliferation. Furthermore, lithium significantly increased the levels of phosphorylated protein kinase B (Akt) and the number of oocytes with forkhead Box O3a (FOXO3a) nuclear export. Inhibition of the phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway by LY294002 reversed lithium-promoted mouse primordial follicle activation. These results suggest that lithium promotes mouse primordial follicle activation by the PI3K/Akt signaling. Lithium also promoted primordial follicle activation and increased the levels of p-Akt in mouse ovaries in vivo and in human ovarian tissue cultured in vitro. Taken together, lithium promotes primordial follicle activation in mice and humans by the PI3K/Akt signaling. Lithium might be a potential oral drug for treating infertility in POI patients with residual dormant primordial follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biao Li
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology , College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193 , China
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Weiyong Wang
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Yingying Huang
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Lincheng Han
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Jia Li
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology , College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193 , China
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Nana Zheng
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology , College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193 , China
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Zhanying Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology , College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193 , China
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Xiaodan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology , College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193 , China
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
| | - Xuelan Li
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine , Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), Foshan 528300, Guangdong , China
| | - Ling Deng
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine , Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), Foshan 528300, Guangdong , China
| | - Min Lin
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine , Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), Foshan 528300, Guangdong , China
| | - Xin Chen
- The Center for Reproductive Medicine , Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), Foshan 528300, Guangdong , China
| | - Meijia Zhang
- Division of Cell , Developmental and Integrative Biology, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006 , China
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40
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Zhao Y, Zhang Y, Liu D, Feng H, Wang X, Su J, Yao Y, Ng EHY, Yeung WSB, Li RHW, Rodriguez-Wallberg KA, Liu K. Identification of curcumin as a novel potential drug for promoting the development of small ovarian follicles for infertility treatment. PNAS NEXUS 2022; 1:pgac108. [PMID: 36741430 PMCID: PMC9896916 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgac108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In-vitro fertilization is an effective treatment for various causes of infertility. However, management of women with poor ovarian response or premature ovarian insufficiency remains challenging because these women have underdeveloped small ovarian follicles that do not respond to hormone treatment. In-vitro activation of small follicles has been developed but its efficiency has much room for improvement. In the current study, we provide several lines of evidence showing that curcumin, an FDA-approved traditional medicine, can specifically promote the development of mouse ovarian follicles from the primary to secondary stage, which greatly potentiates these small follicles for subsequent in-vivo development into antral follicles that can be ovulated. Mechanistically, we show that curcumin promotes the proliferation and differentiation of granulosa cells and the growth of oocytes by activating the phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K) signaling pathway. Most importantly, we show that in-vitro treatment of human ovarian tissues with curcumin can promote the in-vivo survival and development of small human ovarian follicles, showing that curcumin can be used as a potential drug to increase the success rate of in-vitro activation of small human follicles. We thus identify curcumin as a novel potential drug for promoting the development of small human ovarian follicles for infertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Yihui Zhang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Dongteng Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Haiwei Feng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China
| | - Jiajun Su
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China
| | - Yuanqing Yao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China
| | - Ernest H Y Ng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - William S B Yeung
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Raymond H W Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong—Shenzhen Hospital, Haiyuan First Road 1, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | | | - Kui Liu
- To whom correspondence should be addressed:
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41
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Farhat SA, Jabbari F, Jabbari P, Rezaei N. Targeting signaling pathways involved in primordial follicle growth or dormancy: potential application in prevention of follicular loss and infertility. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2022; 22:871-881. [PMID: 35658707 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2022.2086042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Premature ovarian failure (POF) is one of the important causes of infertility in females. To date, no efficient preventive pharmacological treatment has been offered to prevent POF. Therefore, it is necessary to focus on strategies that provide a normal reproductive lifespan to females at risk of developing POF. AREAS COVERED Recently, attention has been drawn to discovering pathways involved in primordial follicle activation, as the inhibition of this process might maintain the stock of primordial follicles and therefore, prevent POF. In vitro and animal studies have resulted in the discovery of several of these pathways that can be used to develop new treatments for POF. These studies show crosstalk of these pathways at different levels. One of the important crossing points of many of these pathways involves anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH). Herein, we discuss different aspects of this topic by reviewing related published articles indexed in PubMed and Web of Science as of December 2021. EXPERT OPINION Although the findings seem promising, most of the studies were conducted on animals, and the interaction between these factors and the possible outcomes of their administration in the long term are still unknown. Therefore, further investigation is necessary to assess these aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Ali Farhat
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Students' Scientific Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Forouq Jabbari
- Maternal, Fetal and Neonatal Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parnian Jabbari
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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42
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Kim J, You YJ. Oocyte Quiescence: From Formation to Awakening. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6572508. [PMID: 35452125 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac049] [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: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Decades of work using various model organisms have resulted in an exciting and emerging field of oocyte maturation. High levels of insulin and active mammalian target of rapamycin signals, indicative of a good nutritional environment, and hormones such as gonadotrophin, indicative of the growth of the organism, work together to control oocyte maturation to ensure that reproduction happens at the right timing under the right conditions. In the wild, animals often face serious challenges to maintain oocyte quiescence under long-term unfavorable conditions in the absence of mates or food. Failure to maintain oocyte quiescence will result in activation of oocytes at the wrong time and thus lead to exhaustion of the oocyte pool and sterility of the organism. In this review, we discuss the shared mechanisms in oocyte quiescence and awakening and a conserved role of noradrenergic signals in maintenance of the quiescent oocyte pool under unfavorable conditions in simple model organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeongho Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Inha University, Incheon, South Korea
| | - Young-Jai You
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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43
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Dai Y, Bo Y, Wang P, Xu X, Singh M, Jia L, Zhang S, Niu S, Cheng K, Liang J, Mu L, Geng K, Xia G, Wang C, Zhang Y, Zhang H. Asynchronous embryonic germ cell development leads to a heterogeneity of postnatal ovarian follicle activation and may influence the timing of puberty onset in mice. BMC Biol 2022; 20:109. [PMID: 35550124 PMCID: PMC9101839 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-022-01318-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ovarian follicles, which are the basic units of female reproduction, are composed of oocytes and surrounding somatic (pre) granulosa cells (GCs). A recent study revealed that signaling in somatic preGCs controlled the activation (initial recruitment) of follicles in the adult ovaries, but it is also known that there are two waves of follicle with age-related heterogeneity in their developmental dynamics in mammals. Although this heterogeneity was proposed to be crucial for female reproduction, our understanding of how it arises and its significance is still elusive. Results In the current study, by deleting the key secreted factor KIT ligand from preGCs and analyzing the follicle cell developmental dynamics, we revealed distinct patterns of activation and growth associated with the two waves of follicles in mouse ovary. Our results confirmed that activation of adult wave follicles is initiated by somatic preGCs and dependent on the KIT ligand. By contrast, activation of first wave follicles, which are awakened from germ cells before follicle formation, can occur in the absence of preGC-secreted KIT ligand in postnatal ovaries and appears to be oocyte-initiated. We also found that the asynchronous activity of phosphatidylinositol 3 kinases (PI3K) signaling and meiotic process in embryonic germ cells lead to the follicle heterogeneity in postnatal ovaries. In addition, we supplied evidence that the time sequence of embryonic germ cell development and its related first wave follicle growth are correlated to the time of puberty onset in females. Conclusion Taken together, our study provides evidence that asynchronous development of embryonic oocytes leads to the heterogeneity of postnatal ovarian follicle activation and development, and affects the timing of onset of puberty in females. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12915-022-01318-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanli Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Yingnan Bo
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Peike Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xueqiang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Meenakshi Singh
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Gothenburg, SE-405 30, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Longzhong Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Shuo Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Shudong Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Kaixin Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jing Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Lu Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Kaiying Geng
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Guoliang Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.,Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western China, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, 750021, Ningxia, China
| | - Chao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
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Su YQ, Yin Y, Guo J, Gong X, Tian Y, Shi L. MTOR-mediated interaction between the oocyte and granulosa cells regulates the development and function of both compartments in mice. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:76-84. [PMID: 35552649 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Coordinated development of the germline and the somatic compartments within a follicle is an essential prerequisite for creating a functionally normal oocyte. Bi-directional communication between the oocyte and the granulosa cells enables the frequent interchange of metabolites and signals that support the development and functions of both compartments. Mechanistic target of Rapamycin (MTOR), a conserved serine/threonine kinase and a widely recognized integrator of signals and pathways key for cellular metabolism, proliferation, and differentiation, is emerging as a major player that regulates many factes of oocyte and follicle development. Here, we summarized our recent observations on the role of oocyte- and granulosa cell-expressed MTOR in the control of the oocyte's and granulosa cell's own development, as well as the development of one another, and provided new data that further strengthen the role of cumulus cell-expressed MTOR in synchronizing oocyte and follicle development. Inhibition of MTOR induced oocyte meiotic resumption in cultured large antral follicles, as well as cumulus expansion and the expression of cumulus expansion-related transcripts in cumulus-oocyte complexes in vitro. In vivo, the activity of MTOR in cumulus cells was diminished remarkablely by 4 h after hCG administration. These results thus suggest that activation of MTOR in cumulus cells contributes to the maintenance of oocyte meiotic arrest before the LH surge. Based on the observations made by us here and previously, we propose that MTOR is an essential mediator of the bi-directional communication between the oocyte and granulosa cells that regulates the development and function of both compartments.
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Affiliation(s)
- You-Qiang Su
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, PR China.,State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, PR China.,Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yaoxue Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Jing Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Xuhong Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Yufeng Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, PR China
| | - Lanying Shi
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, PR China.,State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, PR China
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45
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Athar F, Templeman NM. C. elegans as a model organism to study female reproductive health. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2022; 266:111152. [PMID: 35032657 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2022.111152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Female reproductive health has been historically understudied and underfunded. Here, we present the advantages of using a free-living nematode, Caenorhabditis elegans, as an animal system to study fundamental aspects of female reproductive health. C. elegans is a powerful high-throughput model organism that shares key genetic and physiological similarities with humans. In this review, we highlight areas of pressing medical and biological importance in the 21st century within the context of female reproductive health. These include the decline in female reproductive capacity with increasing chronological age, reproductive dysfunction arising from toxic environmental insults, and cancers of the reproductive system. C. elegans has been instrumental in uncovering mechanistic insights underlying these processes, and has been valuable for developing and testing therapeutics to combat them. Adopting a convenient model organism such as C. elegans for studying reproductive health will encourage further research into this field, and broaden opportunities for making advancements into evolutionarily conserved mechanisms that control reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faria Athar
- Department of Biology, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Nicole M Templeman
- Department of Biology, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia V8P 5C2, Canada.
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46
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The process of ovarian aging: it is not just about oocytes and granulosa cells. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:783-792. [PMID: 35352316 PMCID: PMC9051003 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02478-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian age is classically considered the main cause of female reproductive infertility. In women, the process proceeds as an ongoing decline in the primordial follicle stockpile and it is associated with reduced fertility in the mid-thirties, irregular menstruation from the mid-forties, cessation of fertility, and, eventually, menopause in the early fifties. Reproductive aging is historically associated with changes in oocyte quantity and quality. However, besides the oocyte, other cellular as well as environmental factors have been the focus of more recent investigations suggesting that ovarian decay is a complex and multifaceted process. Among these factors, we will consider mitochondria and oxidative stress as related to nutrition, changes in extracellular matrix molecules, and the associated ovarian stromal compartment where immune cells of both the native and adaptive systems seem to play an important role. Understanding such processes is crucial to design treatment strategies to slow down ovarian aging and consequently prolong reproductive lifespan and, more to this, alleviaingt side effects of menopause on the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and nervous systems.
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Dri M, Klinger FG, De Felici M. The ovarian reserve as target of insulin/IGF and ROS in metabolic disorder-dependent ovarian dysfunctions. REPRODUCTION AND FERTILITY 2022; 2:R103-R112. [PMID: 35118400 PMCID: PMC8801032 DOI: 10.1530/raf-21-0038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
It is known for a long time that metabolic disorders can cause ovarian dysfunctions and affect a woman’s fertility either by direct targeting follicular cells and/or the oocytes or by indirect interference with the pituitary-hypothalamic axis, resulting in dysfunctional oogenesis. Such disorders may also influence the efficiency of the embryo implantation and the quality of the embryo with permanent effects on the fertility and health of the offspring. Thanks to the expanding knowledge on the molecular mechanisms governing oogenesis and folliculogenesis in mammals, we are beginning to understand how such disorders can negatively affect this process and consequently fertility in women. In the present review, we point out and discuss how the disturbance of insulin/IGF-dependent signalling and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) level in the ovary typically associated to metabolic disorders such as type II diabetes and obesity can dysregulate the dynamics of the ovarian reserve and/or impair the survival and competence of the oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Dri
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Massimo De Felici
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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48
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Ghezelayagh Z, Khoshdel-Rad N, Ebrahimi B. Human ovarian tissue in-vitro culture: primordial follicle activation as a new strategy for female fertility preservation. Cytotechnology 2022; 74:1-15. [PMID: 35185282 PMCID: PMC8816997 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-021-00510-2] [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: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryopreservation and transplantation of ovarian tissue is the only fertility preservation option used for prepubertal girls and women who don't have a chance for embryo or oocyte vitrification. For women with aggressive cancer, hormone-responsive malignancies, autoimmune diseases, etc. ovary transplantation cannot be performed so an alternative technology called in-vitro follicle activation is thinkable. In this method, dormant primordial follicles are activated from the resting primordial pool by in-vitro culture and enter their growth phase. Different in-vitro culture media and supplements in addition to various culturing methods have been conducted for activating these dormant follicles. Furthermore, several signaling pathways such as Hippo, phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase, and mTOR influence follicle activation. Therefore, the addition of different activators of these signaling pathways can beneficially regulate this culture system. This review summarizes the findings on different aspects of human ovarian tissue culture strategies for in-vitro follicular activation, their medium, and different factors involved in this activation. Afterward, signaling pathways important for follicle activation and their clinical applications towards improving activation in culture are also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Ghezelayagh
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Developmental Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences and Advanced Technologies in Biology, University of Science and Culture, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Niloofar Khoshdel-Rad
- Department of Developmental Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences and Advanced Technologies in Biology, University of Science and Culture, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Stem Cell and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bita Ebrahimi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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49
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Enhanced glycolysis in granulosa cells promotes the activation of primordial follicles through mTOR signaling. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:87. [PMID: 35087042 PMCID: PMC8795455 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04541-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In mammals, nonrenewable primordial follicles are activated in an orderly manner to maintain the longevity of reproductive life. Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)-KIT ligand (KITL) signaling in pre-granulosa cells and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-protein kinase B (Akt)-forkhead Box O3a (FOXO3a) signaling in oocytes are important for primordial follicle activation. The activation process is accompanied by the enhancement of energy metabolism, but the causal relationship is unclear. In the present study, the levels of glycolysis-related proteins GLUT4, HK1, PFKL, and PKM2 were significantly increased in granulosa cells but were decreased in oocytes during the mouse primordial-to-primary follicle transition. Both short-term pyruvate deprivation in vitro and acute fasting in vivo increased the glycolysis-related gene and protein levels, decreased AMPK activity, and increased mTOR activity in mouse ovaries. The downstream pathways Akt and FOXO3a were phosphorylated, resulting in mouse primordial follicle activation. The blockade of glycolysis by 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG), but not the blockade of the communication network between pre-granulosa cells and oocyte by KIT inhibitor ISCK03, decreased short-term pyruvate deprivation-promoted mTOR activity. Glycolysis was also increased in human granulosa cells during the primordial-to-primary follicle transition, and short-term pyruvate deprivation promoted the activation of human primordial follicles by increasing the glycolysis-related protein levels and mTOR activity in ovarian tissues. Taken together, the enhanced glycolysis in granulosa cells promotes the activation of primordial follicles through mTOR signaling. These findings provide new insight into the relationship between glycolytic disorders and POI/PCOS.
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50
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Chen J, Liu W, Lee KF, Liu K, Wong BPC, Shu-Biu Yeung W. Overexpression of Lin28a induces a primary ovarian insufficiency phenotype via facilitation of primordial follicle activation in mice. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2022; 539:111460. [PMID: 34543700 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Lin28a is an RNA binding protein and increasing evidence has indicated its role in regulating female fertility. Lin28a has been reported to be involved in ovarian follicle activation. However, its role and mechanisms in regulating primordial follicle activation have not yet been explored. To test whether overexpression of Lin28a activates ovarian primordial follicles, studies were conducted in wild type (WT) and Lin28a Tg mice. Female Lin28a Tg mice at 4-month old exhibited significantly smaller litter size and fewer ovulated oocytes when compared with the WT mice. By 6-month of age, these parameters in Lin28a Tg mice were less than 20% of the WT mice. At postnatal day (PD) 14, the number of primordial follicles was significantly decreased but the number of primary follicles was significantly increased in the transgenic mice. The number of primordial follicles, secondary and antral follicles in these mice were drastically reduced at PD21. In the ovary of Lin28a Tg mice, there were activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling and its downstream mTOR pathway. Interestingly, overexpression of Lin28a, which can also act as transcriptional activator, activated Wnt signaling through enhancing the transcription of Wnt co-receptor LRP5. In conclusion, overexpression of Lin28a induced a primary ovarian insufficiency phenotype in long term via facilitating Wnt/β-catenin signaling leading to activation of primordial follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Weimin Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518053, China.
| | - Kai-Fai Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Kui Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518053, China.
| | - Benancy P C Wong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong, China.
| | - William Shu-Biu Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, 999077, Hong Kong, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518053, China.
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