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Zhu L, Akhmet N, Bo D, Pan C, Wu J, Lan X. Genetic variant of the sheep E2F8 gene and its associations with litter size. Anim Biotechnol 2024; 35:2337751. [PMID: 38597900 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2024.2337751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
The economic efficiency of sheep breeding, aiming to enhance productivity, is a focal point for improvement of sheep breeding. Recent studies highlight the involvement of the Early Region 2 Binding Factor transcription factor 8 (E2F8) gene in female reproduction. Our group's recent genome-wide association study (GWAS) emphasizes the potential impact of the E2F8 gene on prolificacy traits in Australian White sheep (AUW). Herein, the purpose of this study was to assess the correlation of the E2F8 gene with litter size in AUW sheep breed. This work encompassed 659 AUW sheep, subject to genotyping through PCR-based genotyping technology. Furthermore, the results of PCR-based genotyping showed significant associations between the P1-del-32bp bp InDel and the fourth and fifth parities litter size in AUW sheep; the litter size of those with genotype ID were superior compared to those with DD and II genotypes. Thus, these results indicate that the P1-del-32bp InDel within the E2F8 gene can be useful in marker-assisted selection (MAS) in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leijing Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, PR China
| | - Nazar Akhmet
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, PR China
| | - Didi Bo
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, PR China
| | - Chuanying Pan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, PR China
| | - Jiyao Wu
- College of Animal Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, PR China
| | - Xianyong Lan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, PR China
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Liu Y, Stott R, Regouski M, Fan Z, Perisse IV, Patrick T, Keim J, Meng Q, Polejaeva IA. A retrospective analysis of sheep generated by somatic cell nuclear transfer. Theriogenology 2024; 227:102-111. [PMID: 39047406 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.07.017] [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: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) is one of the primary methods for production of genetically engineered sheep, which allows for gene editing or transgene introduction in somatic cells. The use of SCNT eliminates the risk of genetic mosaicism in embryos and animals that is commonly observed after zygote micromanipulations. This retrospective analysis of SCNT in sheep performed at Utah State University, spanning from 2016 to 2021, examined parameters that may impact pregnancy and full-term development, including donor oocytes (donor age), donor cell lines, SCNT parameters (time of oocyte activation following SCNT, number of transferred embryos, in vitro maturation and culture conditions), and recipients (surgical number and ovulatory status), as well as factors that may correlate with large offspring syndrome or abnormal offspring syndrome (LOS/AOS) in the fetuses and lambs. Our findings indicated that compared to prepubertal oocytes, the SCNT embryos produced from adult sheep oocytes had comparable in vitro maturation rates, pregnancy and full-term development rates, as well as SCNT efficiency. In addition, earlier activation time of SCNT embryos (e.g. 24-26 h post maturation) was correlated to the early pregnancy loss rate, full-term rate, and SCNT efficiency. Compared to our standard serum-containing medium, commercial serum-free culture medium showed a positive correlation with the full-term development of sheep SCNT embryos. Transferring 15-30 embryos per recipient resulted in consistently good pregnancy rates. Surgical numbers and ovulatory status (having at least one follicle between 6 and 12 mm in size or a corpus hemorrhagicum (CH)) of recipients did not affect pregnancy and full-term development rates. In summary, this retrospective analysis identified parameters for improving pregnancy and full-term development of SCNT embryos in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Liu
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA.
| | - Rusty Stott
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA
| | - Misha Regouski
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA
| | - Zhiqiang Fan
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA
| | - Iuri Viotti Perisse
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA
| | - Tayler Patrick
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA
| | - Jacob Keim
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA
| | - Qinggang Meng
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA
| | - Irina A Polejaeva
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA.
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Souza-Fabjan JMG, Leal GR, Monteiro CAS, Batista RITP, Barbosa NO, Freitas VJF. In vitro embryo production in small ruminants: what is still missing? Anim Reprod 2023; 20:e20230055. [PMID: 38025995 PMCID: PMC10681138 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2023-0055] [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: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In vitro embryo production (IVEP) is an extremely important tool for genetic improvement in livestock and it is the biotechnology that has grown the most recently. However, multiple ovulation followed by embryo transfer is still considered the leading biotechnology for embryo production in small ruminants. This review aimed to identify what is still missing for more efficient diffusion of IVEP in small ruminants, going through the IVEP steps and highlighting the main factors affecting the outcomes. Oocyte quality is essential for the success of IVEP and an aspect to be considered in small ruminants is their reproductive seasonality and strategies to mitigate the effect of season. The logistics for oocyte collection from live females is more complex than in cattle, and tools to simplify this collection system and/or to promote an alternative way of recovering oocytes may be an important point in this scenario. The heterogeneity of oocytes collected from growing follicles in live females or from ovaries collected from abattoirs remains a challenge, and there is a demand to standardize/homogenize the hormonal stimulatory protocols and IVM protocols for each source of oocytes. The use of sexed semen is technically possible, however the low market demand associated with the high costs of the sexing process prevents the routine use of this technique, but its higher availability is an important aspect aiming for greater dissemination of IVEP. New noninvasive approaches for embryo selection are key factors since the selection for transfer or cryopreservation is another difficulty faced among laboratories. Embryo selection is based on morphological traits, although these are not necessarily reliable in predicting pregnancy. Several issues described in this review must be considered by researchers in other to promote the diffusion of IVEP in small ruminants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gabriela Ramos Leal
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, RJ, Brasil
| | | | | | | | - Vicente José Figueirêdo Freitas
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Controle da Reprodução, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
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4
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Saad M, El-Samad LM, Gomaa RA, Augustyniak M, Hassan MA. A comprehensive review of recent advances in silk sericin: Extraction approaches, structure, biochemical characterization, and biomedical applications. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 250:126067. [PMID: 37524279 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126067] [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: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Silks are natural polymers that have been widely used for centuries. Silk consists of a filament core protein, termed fibroin, and a glue-like coating substance formed of sericin (SER) proteins. This protein is extracted from the silkworm cocoons (particularly Bombyx mori) and is mainly composed of amino acids like glycine, serine, aspartic acid, and threonine. Silk SER can be obtained using numerous methods, including enzymatic extraction, high-temperature, autoclaving, ethanol precipitation, cross-linking, and utilizing acidic, alkali, or neutral aqueous solutions. Given the versatility and outstanding properties of SER, it is widely fabricated to produce sponges, films, and hydrogels for further use in diverse biomedical applications. Hence, many authors reported that SER benefits cell proliferation, tissue engineering, and skin tissue restoration thanks to its moisturizing features, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and mitogenic effect on mammalian cells. Remarkably, SER is used in drug delivery depending on its chemical reactivity and pH-responsiveness. These unique features of SER enhance the bioactivity of drugs, facilitating the fabrication of biomedical materials at nano- and microscales, hydrogels, and conjugated molecules. This review thoroughly outlines the extraction techniques, biological properties, and respective biomedical applications of SER.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa Saad
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Lamia M El-Samad
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Rehab A Gomaa
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Maria Augustyniak
- Institute of Biology, Biotechnology and Environmental Protection, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Silesia in Katowice, Bankowa 9, 40-007 Katowice, Poland
| | - Mohamed A Hassan
- Protein Research Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute (GEBRI), City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), New Borg El-Arab City, 21934 Alexandria, Egypt.
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Lan Z, Yu J, Zhang X, Zhang A, Deng R, Li B, Lv Q, Ma X, Gao J, Wang C. Prevalence and Risk Factors of Ovine and Caprine Fasciolosis in the Last 20 Years in China: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13101687. [PMID: 37238117 DOI: 10.3390/ani13101687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Fasciolosis is a significant zoonotic and common parasitic disease for animals and humans, creating public health concerns worldwide. This study retrieved articles related to the occurrence of Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica in sheep and goats in China by searching five databases: PubMed, ScienceDirect, the Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Data, and the VIP Chinese Journal Database. A total of 60 valid articles were captured. The pooled prevalence of ovine and caprine fasciolosis was 26.00%. It was also found to be higher in the subgroups of Northwest China and Shaanxi Province, as well as in areas with a high altitude, rainfall of ≥800 mm, and temperature ranging between 10 °C and 20 °C. Analysis of the type of season and sampling years showed significant (p < 0.05) difference. In other subgroups, sheep (34.74%), hosts aged over 2 years (32.26%), females (48.33%) and free-range animals (26.83%) showed a higher disease prevalence. These results indicated that ovine and caprine fasciolosis was widely distributed, especially in Northwest China. The sampling years and the type of season are risk factors for the prevalence of ovine and caprine fasciolosis. Therefore, strategies for ovine and caprine fasciolosis control should be developed based on these epidemic risk factors, which will reduce the prevalence of fasciolosis in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Lan
- Key Laboratory of Bovine Disease Control in Northeast China, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affair, Daqing 163319, China
| | - Jian Yu
- Nehe Animal Husbandry Technology Promotion Center, Nehe 161300, China
| | - Xinhui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Bovine Disease Control in Northeast China, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affair, Daqing 163319, China
| | - Aihui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Bovine Disease Control in Northeast China, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affair, Daqing 163319, China
| | - Ruipeng Deng
- Key Laboratory of Bovine Disease Control in Northeast China, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affair, Daqing 163319, China
| | - Ben Li
- Key Laboratory of Bovine Disease Control in Northeast China, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affair, Daqing 163319, China
| | - Qingbo Lv
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Institute of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Ministry of Education, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Ma
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Institute of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Ministry of Education, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Junfeng Gao
- Key Laboratory of Bovine Disease Control in Northeast China, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affair, Daqing 163319, China
| | - Chunren Wang
- Key Laboratory of Bovine Disease Control in Northeast China, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affair, Daqing 163319, China
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Tripathi SK, Nandi S, Gupta PSP, Mondal S. Antioxidants supplementation improves the quality of in vitro produced ovine embryos with amendments in key development gene expressions. Theriogenology 2023; 201:41-52. [PMID: 36827868 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.11.048] [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: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The present study assessed the effects of supplementation of different antioxidants on oocyte maturation, embryo production, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and expression of key developmental genes. In this study, using ovine as an animal model, we tested the hypothesis that antioxidant supplementation enhanced the developmental competence of oocytes. Ovine oocytes aspirated from local abattoir-derived ovaries were subjected to IVM with different concentrations of antioxidants [(Melatonin, Ascorbic acid (Vit C), alpha-tocopherol (Vit E), Sodium selenite (SS)]. Oocytes matured without any antioxidant supplementation were used as controls. The oocytes were assessed for maturation rates and ROS levels. Further, embryo production rates in terms of cleavage, blastocysts and total cell numbers were evaluated after performing in vitro fertilization. Real-Time PCR analysis was used to evaluate the expression of stress related gene (SOD-1), growth related (GDF-9, BMP-15), and apoptosis-related genes (BCL-2 and BAX). We observed that maturation rates were significantly higher in alpha-tocopherol (100 μM; 92.4%) groups followed by melatonin (30 μM; 89.1%) group. However, blastocyst rates in ascorbic acid (100 μM; 19.5%), melatonin (30 μM; 18.4%), alpha-tocopherol (100 μM; 18.2%), and sodium selenite (20 μM; 16.9%) groups were significantly higher (P 0.05) than that observed in the control groups. Total cell numbers in blastocysts in the melatonin, ascorbic acid and alpha-tocopherol groups were significantly higher than those observed in sodium selenite and control groups. ROS production was reduced in groups treated with melatonin (30 μM), vitamin C (100 μM), sodium selenite (20 μM) and α-tocopherol (200 μM) compared with that observed in the control group. Supplementation of antioxidants caused the alterations in mRNA expression of growth, stress, and apoptosis related gene expression in matured oocytes. The results recommend that antioxidants alpha-tocopherol (200 μM), sodium selenite (40 μM), melatonin (30 μM) and ascorbic acid (100 μM) during IVM reduced the oxidative stress by decreasing ROS levels in oocytes, thus improving embryo quantity and quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- S K Tripathi
- ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Bangalore, India
| | - S Nandi
- ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Bangalore, India.
| | - P S P Gupta
- ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Bangalore, India
| | - S Mondal
- ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Bangalore, India
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7
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Falchi L, Ledda S, Zedda MT. Embryo biotechnologies in sheep: Achievements and new improvements. Reprod Domest Anim 2022; 57 Suppl 5:22-33. [PMID: 35437835 PMCID: PMC9790389 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
To date, large-scale use of multiple ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET) programmes in ovine species is limited due to unpredictable results and high costs of hormonal stimulation and treatment. Therefore, even if considered reliable, they are not fully applicable in large-scale systems. More recently, the new prospects offered by in vitro embryo production (IVEP) through collection of oocytes post-mortem or by repeated ovum pick-up from live females suggested an alternative to MOET programmes and may be more extensively used, moving from the exclusive research in the laboratory to field application. The possibility to perform oocytes recovery from juvenile lambs to obtain embryos (JIVET) offers the great advantage to significantly reduce the generation interval, speeding the rate of genetic improvement. Although in the past decades several studies implemented novel protocols to enhance embryo production in sheep, the conditions of every single stage of IVEP can significantly affect embryo yield and successful transfer into the recipients. Moreover, the recent progresses on embryo production and freezing technologies might allow wider propagation of valuable genes in small ruminants populations and may be used for constitution of flocks without risks of disease. In addition, they can give a substantial contribution in preserving endangered breeds. The new era of gene editing might offer innovative perspectives in sheep breeding, but the application of such novel techniques implies involvement of specialized operators and is limited by relatively high costs for embryo manipulation and molecular biology analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Falchi
- Sezione di Cl. Ostetrica e GinecologiaDipartimento di Medicina VeterinariaUniversità degli Studi di SassariSassariItaly
| | - Sergio Ledda
- Sezione di Cl. Ostetrica e GinecologiaDipartimento di Medicina VeterinariaUniversità degli Studi di SassariSassariItaly
| | - Maria T. Zedda
- Sezione di Cl. Ostetrica e GinecologiaDipartimento di Medicina VeterinariaUniversità degli Studi di SassariSassariItaly
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Sánchez‐Ajofrín I, Peris‐Frau P, García‐Álvarez O, Fernández‐Santos MDR, Montoro V, Garde JJ, Soler AJ. Serum supplementation during in vitro fertilization of sheep oocytes influences blastocyst quality through the differential abundance of mRNA transcripts. Reprod Domest Anim 2022; 57 Suppl 5:68-71. [PMID: 35575960 PMCID: PMC9796288 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14161] [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: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Incubation with estrous sheep serum (ESS) is required to induce in vitro capacitation of spermatozoa during in vitro fertilization of small ruminants. However, the effect of adding different serum concentrations in the fertilization media on the quality of resulting blastocysts has not yet been studied. Here, 298 sheep oocytes were co-incubated with capacitated spermatozoa with either 10% or 2% ESS. There were no differences between treatments in cleavage (10% ESS: 63.81 ± 5.87% and 2% ESS: 45.31 ± 5.87%) and blastocyst rates (10% ESS: 20.83 ± 2.12% and 2% ESS: 15.93 ± 2.12%). Nonetheless, in vitro-produced blastocysts from the 10% ESS treatment showed a higher transcript abundance of mRNAs involved in apoptosis (ITM2B and BCL2), antioxidant defence (GPX1) and growth-related imprinting (IGF2R). Our data suggest that ESS supplementation during in vitro fertilization can influence the quality of sheep embryos at later stages of development by increasing the transcription of developmentally important genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Sánchez‐Ajofrín
- Instituto Regional de Investigación Científica Aplicada (IRICA)UCLMCiudad RealSpain,SaBio IREC (CSIC‐UCLM‐JCCM)ETSIAMAlbaceteSpain
| | - Patricia Peris‐Frau
- SaBio IREC (CSIC‐UCLM‐JCCM)ETSIAMAlbaceteSpain,Department Animal Reproduction (INIA‐CSIC)MadridSpain
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Distinct proteomic profile of ovarian follicular fluid in ewes from small versus large developing follicles. Livest Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2022.105074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Silva RF, Lima LF, Ferreira ACA, Silva AFB, Alves DR, Alves BG, Oliveira AC, Morais SM, Rodrigues APR, Santos RR, Figueiredo JR. Eugenol Improves Follicular Survival and Development During in vitro Culture of Goat Ovarian Tissue. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:822367. [PMID: 35573397 PMCID: PMC9096615 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.822367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study evaluated the effects of different concentrations (10, 20, or 40 μM) of eugenol (EUG 10, EUG 20, or EUG 40), ascorbic acid (50 μg/mL; AA) or anethole (300 μg/mL; ANE 300) on the in-vitro survival and development of goat preantral follicles and oxidative stress in the cultured ovarian tissue. Ovarian fragments from five goats were cultured for 1 or 7 days in Alpha Minimum Essential Medium (α-MEM+) supplemented or not with AA, ANE 300, EUG 10, EUG 20 or EUG 40. On day 7 of culture, when compared to MEM, the addition of EUG 40 had increased the rate of follicular development, as observed by a decrease in the proportion of primordial follicles alongside with an increase in the rate of normally developing follicles. Furthermore, EUG 40 significantly increased both follicular and oocyte diameters. Subsequently, ovarian fragments from three goats were cultured for 1 or 7 days in α-MEM+ supplemented or not with AA, ANE 300 or EUG 40. All tested antioxidants, except ANE 300, were able to significantly decrease the levels of reactive oxygen species in the ovarian tissue, but EUG 40 could most efficiently neutralize free radicals. All ovarian tissues cultured in the presence of antioxidants, especially EUG 40, presented a significant decrease in H3K4me3 labeling, indicating a silencing of genes that play a role in the inhibition of follicular activation and apoptosis induction. When compared to cultured control tissues, both EUG 40 and ANE 300 significantly increased the intensity of calreticulin labeling in growing follicles. The mRNA relative expression of ERP29 and KDM3A was significantly increased when the culture medium was supplemented with EUG 40, indicating a response to ER stress experienced during culture. In conclusion, EUG 40 improved in-vitro follicle survival, activation and development and decreased ROS production, ER stress and histone lysine methylation in goat ovarian tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. F. Silva
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles, Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
- *Correspondence: R. F. Silva
| | - L. F. Lima
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles, Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Anna C. A. Ferreira
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles, Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - A. F. B. Silva
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles, Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - D. R. Alves
- Natural Product Chemistry Laboratory, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - B. G. Alves
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles, Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - A. C. Oliveira
- Superior Institute of Biomedical Science, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Selene M. Morais
- Natural Product Chemistry Laboratory, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula R. Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles, Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | | | - J. R. Figueiredo
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles, Faculty of Veterinary, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
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Ciornei ŞG, Drugociu D, Ciornei L, Roşca P. Ovarian response to P4-PGF-FSH treatment in Suffolk sheep and P4-PGF-PMSG synchronization in cross-bred ewes, for IVD and ET protocol. Vet Med Sci 2022; 8:726-734. [PMID: 35037413 PMCID: PMC8959288 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The success of an embryo transfer protocol in sheep depends on many factors, but the choice of drugs for the desired superovulation as well as the conception rate (CR) are most essential. Reproductive activity in sheep is characterized by a seasonality influenced by several factors such as photoperiod, latitude, temperature, nutrition and breed. Reproductive seasonality and nutritional condition are the main factors that influence embryo production in sheep. In sheep, some anatomical peculiarities limit the application of traditional reproductive biotechnologies used in cattle. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to conclude on the effectiveness of a wider on farm in vivo embryo transfer development programme in Suffolk sheep by streamlining hormone therapies and optimizing technique. METHODS A total number of 60 sheep and three rams were included in this study, divided into two groups (receptors and donors). Donor Suffolk sheep were treated for superovulation using the P4-PGF-FSH multiple ovulation embryo transfer (MOET) protocol, while the cross-bred recipients' group was synchronized with P4-PGF-PMSG. RESULTS On the first day after superovulation, all ovaries had more than five dominant follicles, while corpora lutea were later observed in 83.3% sheep. The recovery rate was 83.3%, while 72.9% embryos were transferable. Embryos were transferred directly into recipients. Fertility after 30 days was 68.57%, lambing rate was 91.6% and CR was 62.85%. This study showed that veterinary drugs (P4, FSH, LH, PMSG, PGF) used for superovulation optimized by us were capable of producing by this improved technique the optimization of the reproduction indices at embryo-transfer (ET) and to be able to be used successfully. CONCLUSIONS The application of an MOET protocol has a positive effect in the production of in vivo embryo production (IVD) embryos in Suffolk sheep and can guarantee the success of embryo transfer activity to ewes with lower genetic merit. Our research aimed at representing a model for sheep farms for a rapid improvement of productive traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ştefan Gregore Ciornei
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Clinics, ReproductionIasi University of Life Sciences (IULS)IasiRomania
| | - Dan Drugociu
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Clinics, ReproductionIasi University of Life Sciences (IULS)IasiRomania
| | - Liliana Ciornei
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Clinics, ReproductionIasi University of Life Sciences (IULS)IasiRomania
| | - Petru Roşca
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Clinics, ReproductionIasi University of Life Sciences (IULS)IasiRomania
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Maside C, Sánchez-Ajofrín I, Medina-Chávez D, Alves B, Garde JJ, Soler AJ. Oocyte Morphometric Assessment and Gene Expression Profiling of Oocytes and Cumulus Cells as Biomarkers of Oocyte Competence in Sheep. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11102818. [PMID: 34679840 PMCID: PMC8532595 DOI: 10.3390/ani11102818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte quality is crucial for subsequent embryo development and so it is a major challenge in assisted reproductive technologies. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the morphometric parameters of oocytes (experiment 1) and the relative gene expression of oocytes and cumulus cells (CCs) (experiment 2) as biomarkers of oocyte quality after individually culturing them (one oocyte or embryo/drop). In experiment 1, individually matured oocytes were measured and classified into small, intermediate, and large oocytes after a cluster analysis, based on total diameter (with zona pellucida, ZP), oocyte diameter (without ZP), and ZP thickness. These oocytes were individually fertilized in vitro and cultured. The embryo development was evaluated up to the blastocyst stage. According to the total diameter, oocyte diameter, and ZP thickness, the blastocyst rate decreased in the small oocytes group (3.1 ± 3.1, 14.1 ± 9.4, and 26.7 ± 3.9, respectively) compared to the intermediate (29.4 ± 5.2, 30.5 ± 10.1, and 28.6 ± 9.6, respectively) and large oocytes groups (54.2 ± 13.5, 44.4 ± 3.9, and 67.6 ± 12.4, respectively). In addition, the probability of reaching the blastocyst stage was positively related to the total diameter (p < 0.001), oocyte diameter (p < 0.05), and ZP thickness (p < 0.001). Furthermore, the relative gene expression of BAX, BCL2, GDF9, and GJA1 was lower in oocytes classified as large. In experiment 2, the mRNA transcript relative abundance pattern of genes in CCs was evaluated according to oocyte total diameter and developmental stage reached. CCs from oocytes classified as large and oocytes capable of developing to the blastocyst stage had a lower relative expression of BAX, STAR, and PTGS2, while a higher expression of HAS2 and SDC2 transcript was observed for those oocytes. In conclusion, oocyte morphometric parameters and gene expression analysis in oocytes and CCs provide methods for the identification of the most competent oocytes for assisted reproductive technologies in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Maside
- SaBio IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), ETSIAM, Campus Universitario, s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain; (I.S.-A.); (D.M.-C.); (J.J.G.); (A.J.S.)
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Irene Sánchez-Ajofrín
- SaBio IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), ETSIAM, Campus Universitario, s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain; (I.S.-A.); (D.M.-C.); (J.J.G.); (A.J.S.)
| | - Daniela Medina-Chávez
- SaBio IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), ETSIAM, Campus Universitario, s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain; (I.S.-A.); (D.M.-C.); (J.J.G.); (A.J.S.)
| | | | - José Julián Garde
- SaBio IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), ETSIAM, Campus Universitario, s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain; (I.S.-A.); (D.M.-C.); (J.J.G.); (A.J.S.)
| | - Ana Josefa Soler
- SaBio IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), ETSIAM, Campus Universitario, s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain; (I.S.-A.); (D.M.-C.); (J.J.G.); (A.J.S.)
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Gao Y, Wang W, Lyu C, Wei XY, Chen Y, Zhao Q, Ran ZG, Xia YQ. Meta-Analysis of the Prevalence of Echinococcus in Sheep in China From 1983 to 2020. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:711332. [PMID: 34381740 PMCID: PMC8350519 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.711332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Echinococcosis is a zoonosis caused by the larval stage of cestode species that belong to the genus Echinococcus. The infection of hydatid in sheep is very common in China, especially in the northwestern China. Here, we conducted the first systematic review and meta-analysis of echinococcosis in sheep in China. Six databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Baidu Library, CNKI, Wanfang, and VIP Chinese Journal Database) were used to retrieve the literatures on echinococcosis in sheep in China from 1983 to 2020, and 74 studies. The random effects model was used in the “meta” package of the R software and the PFT was chosen for rate conversion. The research data were analyzed through subgroup analysis and univariate meta-regression analysis to reveal the factors that lead to research heterogeneity. The combined prevalence of Echinococcus in the selected period was estimated to be 30.9% (192,094/826,406). In the analysis of sampling year, the lowest positive rate was 13.9% (10,296/177,318) after 2011. The highest prevalence of Echinococcus was 51.1% (278/531) in the southwestern China. The highest infection rate in sheep was 20.1% (58,344/597,815) in the liver. The analysis based on age showed that the infection rate of elderly sheep was significantly higher than that in younger animals (P < 0.05). We also evaluated the effects of different geographic and climatic factors on the prevalence of Echinococcus in sheep. The results showed that the prevalence of Echinococcus was higher in high altitude, cold, humid, and high rainfall areas. It is necessary to carry out long-term monitoring and control of echinococcosis, cut off the infection route, and reduce the risk of infection in the high risk areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Gao
- The Key Sericultural Laboratory of Agricultural Ministry, College of Biotechnology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China.,Research and Development Department, Chongqing Auleon Biological Co., Ltd., Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Wang
- College of Life Science, Changchun Sci-Tech University, Shuangyang, China.,College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Chuang Lyu
- Animal Health Center, Shandong New Hope Liuhe Group Co., Ltd., Qingdao, China.,Animal Health Center, Qingdao Jiazhi Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Qingdao, China
| | - Xin-Yu Wei
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Yu Chen
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, China
| | - Quan Zhao
- College of Life Science, Changchun Sci-Tech University, Shuangyang, China
| | - Zhi-Guang Ran
- Research and Development Department, Chongqing Auleon Biological Co., Ltd., Chongqing, China
| | - You-Qing Xia
- The Key Sericultural Laboratory of Agricultural Ministry, College of Biotechnology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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14
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Ciani F, Maruccio L, Cocchia N, d’Angelo D, Carotenuto D, Avallone L, Namagerdi AA, Tafuri S. Antioxidants in assisted reproductive technologies: An overview on dog, cat, and horse. J Adv Vet Anim Res 2021; 8:173-184. [PMID: 33860028 PMCID: PMC8043350 DOI: 10.5455/javar.2021.h500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) are widely used as a tool to improve reproductive performance in both humans and animals. In particular, in the veterinary field, ARTs are used to improve animal genetics, recover endangered animals, and produce offspring in the event of subfertility or infertility in males or females. However, the use of ARTs did not improve the fertilization rate in some animals due to various factors such as the difficulty in reproducing an anatomical and humoral substrate typical of the natural condition or due to the increase in catabolites and their difficult elimination. The in vitro environment allows the production and increase in the concentration of substances, including reactive oxygen species (ROS), which could be harmful to gametes. If produced in high concentration, the ROS becomes deleterious, both in vitro and in vivo systems. It has been seen that the use of antioxidants can help neutralize or counteract the production of ROS. The present study aims to report the latest findings regarding the use of antioxidants in ARTs of some domestic species, such as dogs, cats, and horses, compared to other animal species, such as cattle, in which ARTs have instead developed more widely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Ciani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- These authors contributed equally
| | - Lucianna Maruccio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- These authors contributed equally
| | - Natascia Cocchia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Danila d’Angelo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Luigi Avallone
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Simona Tafuri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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15
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Hashem NM, Hassanein EM, Simal-Gandara J. Improving Reproductive Performance and Health of Mammals Using Honeybee Products. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:336. [PMID: 33668287 PMCID: PMC7996195 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10030336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Honeybee products have positive effects on the reproductive performance of mammals. Many honeybee product constituents are biologically active, with antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antifungal, wound-healing, and cardio-protective properties. Honeybee products also improve male and female fertility rates by enhancing gamete cryopreservation, in vitro maturation and fertilization, and embryo development. Previously published studies confirmed their efficacy for alleviating reproductive toxicity caused by contaminants and lifestyle habits that impair overall health and well-being. However, high-dose oral administration of honeybee products may adversely affect the reproductive system, and unfavorable effects were alleviated by treatment cessation. For this reason, this review proposes that bioactive components from bee products can be used as a strategy for improving the reproductive performance and health of mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nesrein M. Hashem
- Department of Animal and Fish Production, Faculty of Agriculture (El-Shatby), Alexandria University, Alexandria 21545, Egypt;
| | - Eman M. Hassanein
- Department of Animal and Fish Production, Faculty of Agriculture (El-Shatby), Alexandria University, Alexandria 21545, Egypt;
| | - Jesus Simal-Gandara
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical Chemistry and Food Science, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Vigo-Ourense Campus, E-32004 Ourense, Spain
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16
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Flores-Encinas LA, Rodríguez-Almeida FA, Felix-Portillo M, Jahuey-Martínez FJ, Martínez-Quintana JA. A variant associated to IGF-1 mRNA and protein expression in sheep. Anim Biotechnol 2021; 33:1086-1094. [PMID: 33428515 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2020.1869561] [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: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), a key hormone in muscle development was investigated for single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) upstream of the IGF-1 gene and their effects upon its cognate mRNA and hormone levels in sheep. A 70 d feeding trial was conducted with 22 F1 (Dorper × Pelibuey) lambs, individually allocated and fed a diet with a forage-to-concentrate ratio of 36:64 and 17% crude protein. Sequence analyses of 265 bp upstream the IGF-1 gene revealed the variant NC_040254.1:g.[184028491G > C;184028493G > A]. These SNPs generate alleles A and B, with frequencies of 0.66 and 0.34 in F1 lambs and of 0.73 and 0.27 in 81 pure Dorper lambs, respectively. Females were grouped by genotype AA, AB and BB (n = 3). IGF-1 hormone concentrations at 14, 42 and 70 d were higher (p < 0.05) in AA lambs compared to AB + BB lambs. The IGF-1 mRNA level was 2.6-fold higher in AA animals (n = 5, p < 0.05) than in AB + BB lambs (n = 7). A DNA binding site for the Inhibitor of Growth family member 4 (ING4) was found in allele B but not in allele A, which could explain the lower mRNA and hormone expression levels for AB + BB animals. The variant reported here appears to function as an eQTL with a negative effect on the level of IGF-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis A Flores-Encinas
- Facultad de Zootecnia y Ecología, Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua, Chihuahua, Mexico
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17
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Souza-Fabjan JMG, Batista RITP, Correia LFL, Paramio MT, Fonseca JF, Freitas VJF, Mermillod P. In vitro production of small ruminant embryos: latest improvements and further research. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 33:31-54. [PMID: 38769678 DOI: 10.1071/rd20206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
This review presents the latest advances in and main obstacles to the application of invitro embryo production (IVEP) systems in small ruminants. This biotechnology is an extremely important tool for genetic improvement for livestock and is essential for the establishment of other biotechnologies, such as cloning and transgenesis. At present, the IVEP market is almost non-existent for small ruminants, in contrast with the trends observed in cattle. This is probably related to the lower added value of small ruminants, lower commercial demand and fewer qualified professionals interested in this area. Moreover, there are fewer research groups working on small ruminant IVEP than those working with cattle and pigs. The heterogeneity of oocytes collected from growing follicles in live females or from ovaries collected from abattoirs remains a challenge for IVEP dissemination in goats and sheep. Of note, although the logistics of oocyte collection from live small ruminant females are more complex than in the bovine, in general the IVEP outcomes, in terms of blastocyst production, are similar. We anticipate that after appropriate training and repeatable results, the commercial demand for small ruminant invitro -produced embryos may increase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna M G Souza-Fabjan
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Vital Brazil Filho, 64, Niterói-RJ, CEP 24230-340, Brazil; and Corresponding author
| | - Ribrio I T P Batista
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Vital Brazil Filho, 64, Niterói-RJ, CEP 24230-340, Brazil
| | - Lucas F L Correia
- Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Vital Brazil Filho, 64, Niterói-RJ, CEP 24230-340, Brazil
| | - Maria Teresa Paramio
- Departament de Ciencia Animal i dels Aliments, Facultat de Veterinaria, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Valles, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jeferson F Fonseca
- Embrapa Caprinos e Ovinos, Rodovia MG 133, km 42, Campo Experimental Coronel Pacheco, Coronel Pacheco-MG, CEP 36155-000, Brazil
| | - Vicente J F Freitas
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Controle da Reprodução, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza-CE, CEP 60714-903, Brazil
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement (INRAE), UMR7247, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France
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18
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Anethole Supplementation During Oocyte Maturation Improves In Vitro Production of Bovine Embryos. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:1602-1608. [PMID: 32436196 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00190-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress is one of the most detrimental factors that affect oocyte developmental competence and embryo development in vitro. The impact of anethole supplementation to in vitro maturation (IVM) media on oocyte maturation and further bovine in vitro embryo production was investigated. Oocytes of slaughterhouse-derived bovine ovaries were placed in IVM with anethole at different concentrations of 30 (AN30), 300 (AN300), and 2000 μg/mL (AN2000), or without (control treatment). The oocytes were assessed for maturation rates, and for reactive oxygen species (ROS) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) levels, and mitochondrial membrane potential. Embryo development was assessed by cleavage and blastocyst rates, and embryo cell number. The percentage of metaphase II oocytes were similar among the treatments (range, 77%-96%). Anethole at 300 μg/mL was the only treatment that yielded higher cleavage and embryo development (morula and blastocyst) rates compared to the control treatment. The ROS production in the oocytes after maturation did not differ among treatments. However, oocytes treated with anethole at 300 μg/mL had higher (P < .05) FRAP and mitochondrial membrane potential compared to the control treatment. Furthermore, AN300 treatment increased (P < .05) the average number of total cells in blastocysts compared to the control and AN30 treatments. The use of anethole at 300 μg/mL during IVM is suggested to improve the quantity and quality of bovine embryos produced in vitro. The beneficial effects of anethole on embryonic developmental competence in vitro seems to be related to its capacity to regulate the redox balance and improve mitochondrial function in oocytes and embryos.
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19
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Extracellular Vesicles, the Road toward the Improvement of ART Outcomes. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10112171. [PMID: 33233342 PMCID: PMC7700519 DOI: 10.3390/ani10112171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, farm animal industries use assisted reproductive technologies (ART) as a tool to manage herds' reproductive outcomes, for a fast dissemination of genetic improvement as well as to bypass subfertility issues. ART comprise at least one of the following procedures: collection and handling of oocytes, sperm, and embryos in in vitro conditions. Therefore, in these conditions, the interaction with the oviductal environment of gametes and early embryos during fertilization and the first stages of embryo development is lost. As a result, embryos obtained in in vitro fertilization (IVF) have less quality in comparison with those obtained in vivo, and have lower chances to implant and develop into viable offspring. In addition, media currently used for IVF are very similar to those empirically developed more than five decades ago. Recently, the importance of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the fertility process has flourished. EVs are recognized as effective intercellular vehicles for communication as they deliver their cargo of proteins, lipids, and genetic material. Thus, during their transit through the female reproductive tract both gametes, oocyte and spermatozoa (that previously encountered EVs produced by male reproductive tract) interact with EVs produced by the female reproductive tract, passing them important information that contributes to a successful fertilization and embryo development. This fact highlights that the reproductive tract EVs cargo has an important role in reproductive events, which is missing in current ART media. This review aims to recapitulate recent advances in EVs functions on the fertilization process, highlighting the latest proposals with an applied approach to enhance ART outcome through EV utilization as an additive to the media of current ART procedures.
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Fryc K, Nowak A, Kij B, Kochan J, Bartlewski PM, Murawski M. Timing of cleavage divisions determined with time-lapse imaging is linked to blastocyst formation rates and quality of in vitro-produced ovine embryos. Theriogenology 2020; 159:147-152. [PMID: 33157452 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Time-lapse (TL) imaging provides a practical and safe tool to constantly monitor the development of in vitro-derived embryos. TL may help develop novel methods of predicting the timing of embryo cleavage that will lead to optimizing blastocyst cryopreservation or transfer. The primary objective of the present study was to employ TL imaging to examine associations among the division kinetics of ovine embryos, their quality and rates of development to the blastocyst stage. Oocytes were collected by ovary scarification from 78 Longwool ewes slaughtered in the breeding season (November-March). Cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) were matured for 24 h in TCM 199 media containing 0.1 IU/mL LH/FSH and 10% FBS. In-vitro fertilization was carried out by co-incubation of semen and COCs for 19 h. Presumptive zygotes were placed in microwells, in droplets of Cult medium (Gynemed, Lensahn, Germany). Digital images of developing embryos were captured every 10 min by Primo Vision TL system (EVO+; Vitrolife, Göteburg, Sweden). The following time intervals were recorded: from IVF to the attainment of two-cell (t2), three-cells (t3) or four-cell (t4) stage, to morula detection (tM), blastulation (tSB) and blastocyst formation (tB). Lastly, the duration of the second cell cycle (cc2; t3-t2) and complete synchronous cell division (s2; t4-t3) were calculated, and the incidence of developmental anomalies noted. Out of 147 embryos selected for TL observations, 55 (37.4%) developed to the blastocyst stage (normally developing embryos, NE) and 92 (62.6%) failed to reach the blastocyst stage (arrested embryos, AE; P < 0.05). Mean t2, tM, s2 and cc2 were all less (P ≤ 0.02) in NE compared with AE. Approximately 61.9% of embryos exhibited developmental anomalies (35.5% in the NE group and 78.2% in the AE group; P < 0.05) and AE exceeded (P < 0.05) NE in the proportion of FRG (blastomeric fragmentation), IRR (blastomeres of irregular size after cleavage), DC (direct cleavage) and MA (multi-morphological aberrations). Of all NE, 63.6% were classified as good quality and 36.4% as poor quality blastocysts (P < 0.05). Good quality ovine blastocysts attained t2, t3, t4, tSB and tB stages earlier (P ≤ 0.03) than poor quality blastocysts and none of the poor quality blastocysts was seen to hatch. To recapitulate, the present results indicate that the kinetics of early ovine embryo development are significant predictors of their potential to develop to the blastocyst stage and the markers of blastocyst quality. Time-lapse imaging may serve as a useful technique for predicting the outcome and enhancing efficacy of in vitro embryo production in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Fryc
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Biotechnology, and Fisheries, University of Agriculture in Kraków, 24/28 Mickiewicza Ave., 30-059, Cracow, Poland.
| | - Agnieszka Nowak
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Anatomy and Genomics, University of Agriculture in Kraków, 24/28 Mickiewicza Ave., 30-059, Cracow, Poland
| | - Barbara Kij
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Anatomy and Genomics, University of Agriculture in Kraków, 24/28 Mickiewicza Ave., 30-059, Cracow, Poland
| | - Joanna Kochan
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Anatomy and Genomics, University of Agriculture in Kraków, 24/28 Mickiewicza Ave., 30-059, Cracow, Poland
| | - Pawel M Bartlewski
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd., Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Maciej Murawski
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Biotechnology, and Fisheries, University of Agriculture in Kraków, 24/28 Mickiewicza Ave., 30-059, Cracow, Poland
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Ressaissi Y, Anzalone DA, Palazzese L, Czernik M, Loi P. The impaired development of sheep ICSI derived embryos is not related to centriole dysfunction. Theriogenology 2020; 159:7-12. [PMID: 33113447 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
While intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is an asset in human Assisted Reproduction Technologies (ART), its outcomes, in terms of blastocyst, is still unacceptably low in ruminants. The picture typically found in ICSI derived bovine and ovine embryos is an asymmetry between a high activation rate, marked by a pronuclear development, and a low first cleavage rate. Abnormal centriole function has been indicated as a possible factor which undermines embryonic development following ICSI, especially when Freeze Dried spermatozoa (FD) are used. In order to verify the hypothesis that centriole dysfunction might be responsible for low ICSI outcomes in sheep, we have investigated micro-tubular dynamics, markedly aster nucleation, in fertilized sheep zygotes by ICSI with frozen/thawed (FT) and FD spermatozoa; In Vitro Fertilized (IVF) sheep oocytes were used as control. The spermatozoa aster nucleation was assessed at different time points following ICSI and IVF by immune-detection of α-tubulin. Pronuclear stage, syngamy and embryo development were assessed. No difference was noticed in the timing of aster nucleation and microtubule elongation in ICSI-FT derived embryos with control IVF ones, while a delay was recorded in ICSI-FD ones. The proportion of 2-pronuclear stage zygotes was similar in ICSI-FT and ICSI-FD (47% and 53%, respectively), both much lower comparing the IVF ones (73%). Likewise, syngamy was observed in a minority of both ICSI groups (28.5% vs 12.5% in ICSI-FT/FD respectively) comparing to IVF controls (50%), with a high number of zygotes blocked at the 2-pronuclear stage (71.5% vs 87.5% respectively). While no significant differences were noticed in the cleavage rate between ICSI-FD, ICSI-FT and IVF groups (31%, 34% and 44%) respectively, development to blastocyst stage was markedly compromised in both ICSI groups, especially with FD spermatozoa (10% in ICIS-FD and 19% in ICSI-FT vs 33% in IVF (P < 0.005, ICSI-FD vs IVF and P < 0.05, IVF vs ICSI-FT, respectively). Hence, here we have demonstrated that the reduced cleavage, and the ensuing impaired development to blastocysts stage of ICSI derived sheep embryos is not related to centriole dysfunction, as suggested by other authors. The major recorded problem is the lack of syngamy in ICSI derived zygotes, an issue that should be addressed in further studies to improve ICSI procedure in sheep embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yosra Ressaissi
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini, Teramo, 1 - 64100, Italy
| | - Debora Agata Anzalone
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini, Teramo, 1 - 64100, Italy
| | - Luca Palazzese
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini, Teramo, 1 - 64100, Italy
| | - Marta Czernik
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini, Teramo, 1 - 64100, Italy
| | - Pasqualino Loi
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini, Teramo, 1 - 64100, Italy.
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Kaabi AM, Barakat IAH, Alajmi RA, Abdel-Daim MM. Use of black seed (Nigella sativa) honey bee to improve sheep oocyte maturation medium. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:33872-33881. [PMID: 32535822 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-09504-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Sheep are important livestock and a source of milk, meat, and wool globally. The increasing demand for animal protein requires increased productivity in sheep. In vitro fertilization and maturation can improve sheep productivity. The aims of this study were to evaluate the effects of honey bee addition as a supplementation medium on in vitro maturation improvement, gene expression of matured sheep oocytes, and determine the optimum concentration from honey bee for in vitro maturation of sheep oocytes. Cumulus oocyte complexes were obtained from the ovaries of slaughtered female sheep. Grade A and B oocytes were cultured for 24 h in medium without honey bee (control, G1) or medium supplemented with 5% (G2), 10% (G3), or 20% (G4) honey bee. Oocyte maturation rate, glutathione concentration, and the expression of candidate genes (GDF-9, BAX, Cyclin B, C-MOS, IGF1) were determined in the matured oocytes. The maturation rate of sheep oocyte was better in the presence of 5% and 10% honey bee; the mean number of oocytes in metaphase II stage was higher than that in G1 and G4 groups. Glutathione concentration was highest in G2 (10.93 ± 0.57). In general, gene expression levels were similar in G2 and G3, which were greater that in G1 and G4. In conclusion, the optimal concentration of black seeds honey bee that can be added to the maturation medium is 5% to obtain the highest mean MII and glutathione concentration values, and to improve gene expression in in vitro matured sheep oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaishah M Kaabi
- Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ibrahim Abdalla Hassan Barakat
- Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
- Cell Biology Department, National Research Center, 33 Bohouth St., Dokki, Giza, Egypt.
| | - Reem A Alajmi
- Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed M Abdel-Daim
- Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt.
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Daly J, Smith H, McGrice HA, Kind KL, van Wettere WH. Towards Improving the Outcomes of Assisted Reproductive Technologies of Cattle and Sheep, with Particular Focus on Recipient Management. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E293. [PMID: 32069818 PMCID: PMC7070504 DOI: 10.3390/ani10020293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The Australian agricultural industry contributes AUD 47 billion to the Australian economy, and Australia is the world's largest exporter of sheep meat and the third largest for beef. Within Australia, sheep meat consumption continues to rise, with beef consumption being amongst the highest in the world; therefore, efficient strategies to increase herd/flock size are integral to the success of these industries. Reproductive management is crucial to increasing the efficiency of Australian breeding programs. The use of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) has the potential to increase efficiency significantly. The implementation of multiple ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET) and juvenile in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (JIVET) in combination with genomic selection and natural mating and AI is the most efficient way to increase genetic gain, and thus increase reproductive efficiency within the Australian livestock industries. However, ARTs are costly, and high variation, particularly between embryo transfer recipients in their ability to maintain pregnancy, is a significant constraint to the widespread commercial adoption of ARTs. The use of a phenotypic marker for the selection of recipients, as well as the better management of recipient animals, may be an efficient and cost-effective means to increase the productivity of the Australian livestock industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamee Daly
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia; (H.S.); (H.A.M.); (K.L.K.)
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Raza S, Uçan U, Aksoy M, Erdoğan G, Ceylan A, Serin I. Silk protein sericin pretreatment enhances osmotic tolerance and post-thaw sperm quality but reduces the ability of sperm cells to undergo in vitro induced acrosome reaction in rabbit. Cryobiology 2019; 90:1-7. [PMID: 31541621 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2019.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Revised: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Effect of sericin pretreatment of sperm cells on the osmotic tolerance, ability to undergo acrosome reaction induced by calcium ionophore (CI), heparin (H) or lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), post-thaw sperm quality and in vivo fertility was evaluated in four successive experiments in rabbit. In experiment 1, fresh semen was pretreated with sericin (0, 0.1% or 0.5% w/v) before exposing to fructose solutions adjusted to either 50, 100, 290, 500 or 1000 mOsm/L. Sericin pretreatment increased sperm livability in addition to live-membrane intact and total membrane intact sperm rates (P < 0.05) in 50 and 290 mOsm/L groups. In experiment 2, sperm samples were pretreated by either 0.1 or 0.5% sericin after removal of the semen plasma. CI, H or LPC were used to induce acrosome reaction in pretreated sperm samples. Sericin pretreatment, reduced the ability of sperm cells to undergo acrosome reaction (P < 0.05) in vitro. In experiment 3, ejaculates were frozen with or without sericin pretreatment in DMSO-sucrose extender. In post-thaw samples sericin pretreatment improved total and progressive motility, livability, membrane and acrosome integrity in a dose dependent manner (P < 0.05). In vivo fertility trials by artificial inseminations revealed contradictory results in experiment 4. Although 0.5% sericin pretreatment totally inhibited fertility, 0.1% sericin provided high pregnancy rates. In conclusion; sericin pretreatment enhances osmotic tolerance and post-thaw sperm quality, but reduces the ability of rabbit sperm cells to undergo in vitro induced acrosome reaction, but this effect is restored in vivo by dose dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanan Raza
- Department of Animal Reproduction, University of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, 35200, Jhang Campus, Pakistan; Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Aydin Adnan Menderes, 09016, Aydin, Turkey.
| | - Uğur Uçan
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Aydin Adnan Menderes, 09016, Aydin, Turkey.
| | - Melih Aksoy
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Aydin Adnan Menderes, 09016, Aydin, Turkey.
| | - Güneş Erdoğan
- Department of Veterinary Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Aydin Adnan Menderes, 09016, Aydin, Turkey.
| | - Ahmet Ceylan
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Aydin Adnan Menderes, 09016, Aydin, Turkey.
| | - Ilker Serin
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Aydin Adnan Menderes, 09016, Aydin, Turkey.
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Sá NAR, Vieira LA, Ferreira ACA, Cadenas J, Bruno JB, Maside C, Sousa FGC, Cibin FWS, Alves BG, Rodrigues APR, Leal-Cardoso JH, Gastal EL, Figueiredo JR. Anethole Supplementation During Oocyte Maturation Improves In Vitro Production of Bovine Embryos. Reprod Sci 2019:1933719119831783. [PMID: 30808260 DOI: 10.1177/1933719119831783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Oxidative stress is one of the most detrimental factors that affect oocyte developmental competence and embryo development in vitro. The impact of anethole supplementation to in vitro maturation (IVM) media on oocyte maturation and further bovine in vitro embryo production was investigated. Oocytes of slaughterhouse-derived bovine ovaries were placed in IVM with anethole at different concentrations of 30 (AN30), 300 (AN300), and 2000 μg/mL (AN2000), or without (control treatment). The oocytes were assessed for maturation rates, and for reactive oxygen species (ROS) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) levels, and mitochondrial membrane potential. Embryo development was assessed by cleavage and blastocyst rates, and embryo cell number. The percentage of metaphase II oocytes were similar among the treatments (range, 77%-96%). Anethole at 300 µg/mL was the only treatment that yielded higher cleavage and embryo development (morula and blastocyst) rates compared to the control treatment. The ROS production in the oocytes after maturation did not differ among treatments. However, oocytes treated with anethole at 300 µg/mL had higher ( P < .05) FRAP and mitochondrial membrane potential compared to the control treatment. Furthermore, AN300 treatment increased ( P < .05) the average number of total cells in blastocysts compared to the control and AN30 treatments. The use of anethole at 300 μg/mL during IVM is suggested to improve the quantity and quality of bovine embryos produced in vitro. The beneficial effects of anethole on embryonic developmental competence in vitro seems to be related to its capacity to regulate the redox balance and improve mitochondrial function in oocytes and embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naiza A R Sá
- 1 Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
| | - Luís A Vieira
- 2 Department of Physiology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Anna Clara A Ferreira
- 1 Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
| | - Jesús Cadenas
- 1 Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
| | - Jamily B Bruno
- 1 Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
| | - Carolina Maside
- 2 Department of Physiology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Francisca G C Sousa
- 1 Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
| | - Francielli W S Cibin
- 3 Laboratory of Reproduction Biotechnology (Biotech), Campus Uruguaiana, Federal University of Pampa, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Benner G Alves
- 4 Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlandia, Uberlandia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula R Rodrigues
- 1 Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
| | - José H Leal-Cardoso
- 5 Laboratory of Electrophysiology (LEF), Superior Institute of Biomedical Sciences, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
| | - Eduardo L Gastal
- 6 Department of Animal Science, Food and Nutrition, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - José R Figueiredo
- 1 Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Preantral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceara, Brazil
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Alenezy ES, Barakat IAH, Al Musayeib NM. Effect of Wild Marjoram (<i>Origanum vulgare</i>) Plant Extracts on Capacitation of Sheep Spermatozoa <i>in Vitro</i>. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.4236/abb.2019.104006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Gad A, Abu Hamed S, Khalifa M, Amin A, El-Sayed A, Swiefy SA, El-Assal S. Retinoic acid improves maturation rate and upregulates the expression of antioxidant-related genes in in vitro matured buffalo ( Bubalus bubalis) oocytes. Int J Vet Sci Med 2018; 6:279-285. [PMID: 30564610 PMCID: PMC6286416 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijvsm.2018.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Revised: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinoic acid, vitamin A metabolite, plays a role in oocyte development and maturation in different ways including gene expression alteration and/or prohibiting oxidative stress. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of 9-cis-retinoic acid (9-cisRA) on the quality and maturation rate of buffalo oocytes. Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs, n = 460) were collected from ovaries of slaughtered buffalos. Varying concentrations of 9-cisRA (0, 5, 50, and 200 nM) were added to the maturation medium, and the following parameters were analyzed: (i) maturation and cleavage rates, (ii) mitochondrial activity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, (iii) expression level of antioxidant-related genes (PRDX1, SOD1, CAT, HOMX1, and GPX4) using RT-qPCR. Maturation rate was significantly improved in 5 nM 9-cisRA oocyte group (95.8%, P < .05) compared to control and other treatment groups (86.7% in control group). The same oocyte group exhibited significantly higher mitochondrial membrane potential activity and lower ROS accumulation level compared to other treatment groups. Antioxidant-related genes were up-regulated in oocytes matured with 5 or 50 nM 9-cisRA compared to control and 200 nM 9-cisRA groups. In contrast, 200 nM of 9-cisRA showed a clear down-regulation for antioxidant-related genes except for PRDX1. In conclusion, supplementation of 9-cisRA with a lower concentration (5 nM) to the buffalo oocytes maturation media promotes maturation rate through a protection mechanism that maintains adequate levels of antioxidant-related transcripts and improves mitochondrial activity. However, 9-cisRA has no significant effect on the cleavage rate of the treated oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Gad
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
- Cairo University Research Park (CURP), Faculty of Agriculture, Giza, Egypt
| | - Said Abu Hamed
- Animal Production Research Institute, Agriculture Research Center, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Khalifa
- Cairo University Research Park (CURP), Faculty of Agriculture, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Amin
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ashraf El-Sayed
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
- Cairo University Research Park (CURP), Faculty of Agriculture, Giza, Egypt
| | - Swiefy A. Swiefy
- Animal Production Research Institute, Agriculture Research Center, Giza, Egypt
| | - Salah El-Assal
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
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