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Bernstein LR, Mackenzie ACL, Chaffin CL, Lee SJ, Kraemer DC, Merchenthaler I. Gonadotropin elevation is ootoxic to ovulatory oocytes and inhibits oocyte maturation, and activin decoy receptor ActRIIB:Fc therapeutically restores maturation. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2024; 22:52. [PMID: 38711160 PMCID: PMC11071334 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-024-01224-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Elevated FSH often occurs in women of advanced maternal age (AMA, age ≥ 35) and in infertility patients undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation (COS). There is controversy on whether high endogenous FSH contributes to infertility and whether high exogenous FSH adversely impacts patient pregnancy rates. METHODS The senescence-accelerated mouse-prone-8 (SAMP8) model of female reproductive aging was employed to assess the separate impacts of age and high FSH activity on the percentages (%) of viable and mature ovulated oocytes recovered after gonadotropin treatment. Young and midlife mice were treated with the FSH analog equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) to model both endogenous FSH elevation and exogenous FSH elevation. Previously we showed the activin inhibitor ActRIIB:Fc increases oocyte quality by preventing chromosome and spindle misalignments. Therefore, ActRIIB:Fc treatment was performed in an effort to increase % oocyte viability and % oocyte maturation. RESULTS The high FSH activity of eCG is ootoxic to ovulatory oocytes, with greater decreases in % viable oocytes in midlife than young mice. High FSH activity of eCG potently inhibits oocyte maturation, decreasing the % of mature oocytes to similar degrees in young and midlife mice. ActRIIB:Fc treatment does not prevent eCG ootoxicity, but it restores most oocyte maturation impeded by eCG. CONCLUSIONS FSH ootoxicity to ovulatory oocytes and FSH maturation inhibition pose a paradox given the well-known pro-growth and pro-maturation activities of FSH in the earlier stages of oocyte growth. We propose the FOOT Hypothesis ("FSH OoToxicity Hypothesis), that FSH ootoxicity to ovulatory oocytes comprises a new driver of infertility and low pregnancy success rates in DOR women attempting spontaneous pregnancy and in COS/IUI patients, especially AMA women. We speculate that endogenous FSH elevation also contributes to reduced fecundity in these DOR and COS/IUI patients. Restoration of oocyte maturation by ActRIB:Fc suggests that activin suppresses oocyte maturation in vivo. This contrasts with prior studies showing activin A promotes oocyte maturation in vitro. Improved oocyte maturation with agents that decrease endogenous activin activity with high specificity may have therapeutic benefit for COS/IVF patients, COS/IUI patients, and DOR patients attempting spontaneous pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori R Bernstein
- Pregmama, LLC, Gaithersburg, MD, 20886, USA.
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Texas A & M School of Medicine, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - Amelia C L Mackenzie
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Texas A & M School of Medicine, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
- FHI 360, Durham, NC, 27701, USA
| | - Charles L Chaffin
- Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Se-Jin Lee
- University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, 06030, USA
- The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, 06030, USA
| | - Duane C Kraemer
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A & M School of Veterinary Medicine, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Istvan Merchenthaler
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
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Burke S. Hypoxia, NSAIDs, and autism: A biocultural analysis of stressors in gametogenesis. Am J Hum Biol 2024:e24042. [PMID: 38282542 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.24042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Cultural and generational trends have increasingly favored "anti-inflammatory" action, innovating a new class of analgesic, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in the 20th century. The modern human body has been molded over evolutionary time and while acknowledging inflammation can be pathologically entwined, it also serves an important role in healthy folliculogenesis and ovulation, shaping cues that drive needed vascular change. This review argues that because of anti-inflammatory action, the cultural invention of NSAIDs represents a particular stressor on female reproductive-age bodies, interacting with natural, underlying variation and placing limits on healthy growth and development in the follicles, creating potential autism risk through hypoxia and mutagenic or epigenetic effects. Since testes are analogs to ovaries, the biological grounding extends naturally to spermatogenesis. This review suggests the introduction of over-the-counter NSAIDs in the 1980s failed to recognize the unique functioning of reproductive-age bodies, challenging the cyclical inflammation needed for healthy gamete development. NSAIDs are framed as one (notable) stressor in an anti-inflammatory era focused on taming the risks of inflammation in modern human life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacie Burke
- Department of Anthropology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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3
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Cruz-Cano N, Sánchez-Rivera U, Álvarez-Rodríguez C, Loya-Zurita R, Castro-Camacho Y, Martínez-Torres M. Immunolocalization of activin and inhibin at different stages of follicular development in the lizard Sceloporus torquatus. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19333. [PMID: 37681184 PMCID: PMC10481300 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19333] [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: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The activins and inhibins are glycoproteins with a role in the follicular development of vertebrates, that are found in follicular fluid and somatic follicular cells, with a different pattern among taxa. The principal function of activin (Act) is to modulate the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) synthesis and secretion, whereas inhibin (Inh) downregulates it. Both factors are modulators of intraovarian follicular recruitment, oocyte maturation, cell proliferation, and steroidogenic activity. Our aim was to characterize the immunolocalization of Act and Inh in the ovarian follicles during the reproductive cycle of the lizard Sceloporus torquatus. Act was detected in the granulosa cells and oocyte cortex in the different stages of follicular development. On the other hand, we identified Inh in the oocyte cortex and the cytoplasm of pyriform and small cells of previtellogenic follicles. Also, we found immunoreactivity in the oocyte cortex, theca, and small cells of vitellogenic and preovulatory follicles. Our data provide evidence that Act and Inh have changes related to the stage of follicular development. This dynamic appears to be conserved among vertebrates and is fundamental to ensure an adequate follicular development in this specie.
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Affiliation(s)
- N.B. Cruz-Cano
- Posgrado en Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Edificio D, 1° Piso, Circuito de Posgrados, Ciudad Universitaria, Coyoacán, C.P. 04510, Ciudad de México, Mexico
- Laboratorio de Biología de La Reproducción, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida de Los Barrios s/n, Los Reyes Iztacala, Tlalnepantla Estado de México, C.P. 54110, Mexico
| | - U.Á. Sánchez-Rivera
- Laboratorio de Biología de La Reproducción, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida de Los Barrios s/n, Los Reyes Iztacala, Tlalnepantla Estado de México, C.P. 54110, Mexico
| | - C. Álvarez-Rodríguez
- Laboratorio de Biología de La Reproducción, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida de Los Barrios s/n, Los Reyes Iztacala, Tlalnepantla Estado de México, C.P. 54110, Mexico
| | - R.E. Loya-Zurita
- Laboratorio de Biología de La Reproducción, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida de Los Barrios s/n, Los Reyes Iztacala, Tlalnepantla Estado de México, C.P. 54110, Mexico
| | - Y.J. Castro-Camacho
- Laboratorio de Biología de La Reproducción, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida de Los Barrios s/n, Los Reyes Iztacala, Tlalnepantla Estado de México, C.P. 54110, Mexico
| | - M. Martínez-Torres
- Laboratorio de Biología de La Reproducción, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida de Los Barrios s/n, Los Reyes Iztacala, Tlalnepantla Estado de México, C.P. 54110, Mexico
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Review: Role and regulatory mechanism of inhibin in animal reproductive system. Theriogenology 2023; 202:10-20. [PMID: 36878034 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.02.016] [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: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
Inhibin (INH) is a glycoprotein hormone secreted by the gonads that inhibit the synthesis and secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Increasing evidence indicates that INH plays a significant role in the development of the reproductive system including follicle development, ovulation rate, corpus luteum formation and ablation, steroid hormone synthesis and spermatogenesis, subsequently affecting the reproductive capacity of animals such as litter size and egg production. There are currently three main views on how INH inhibits FSH synthesis and secretion: influencing the activity of adenylate cyclase, the expression of follicle-stimulating hormone receptor or gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor, and the competition system of inhibin-activin. This review discusses the current findings on the structure, function, and mechanism of action of INH in the reproductive system of animals.
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Bao Y, Li X, El-Samahy MA, Yang H, Wang Z, Yang F, Yao X, Wang F. Exploration the role of INHBA in Hu sheep granulosa cells using RNA-Seq. Theriogenology 2023; 197:198-208. [PMID: 36525859 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.12.006] [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: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Activin/inhibin is an important factor for the fecundity of Hu sheep, and it is involved in follicular development in ovaries. Inhibin subunit beta A (INHBA) participates in the synthesis of activin A and inhibin A. In this study, we also noted a positive correlation between INHBA level and the secretion of both activin A and inhibin A in culture medium. Nevertheless, both knockdown and overexpression of INHBA downregulated the expression of Inhibin Subunit Alpha (INHA). Based on RNA-Sequencing, we further examined the effect and molecular mechanism of INHBA knockdown in GCs on mRNA expression. A total of 1,687 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified (Fold change ≥ 2; False-discovory-rates (FDR) ≤ 0.01), of which 602 genes were upregulated and 1,087 genes were downregulated in the INHBA interference group compared with the control groups. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment indicated that these DEGs were mainly involved in the regulation of cell cycle, protein serine/threonine kinase activity, and actin cytoskeleton reorganization. Moreover, DEGs were significantly enriched in 40 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways, including P53, progesterone-mediated oocyte maturation, and PI3K-AKT signaling pathways. We also noted a positive correlation between INHBA level and many PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway-related genes at the gene or/and protein expression. Overall, this study may contribute to a better understanding of the roles of INHBA on GCs of prolific sheep, as well as the molecular effect of low INHBA expression on GCs, clarifying some reproductive failures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjin Bao
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Xiaodan Li
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - M A El-Samahy
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Animal Production Research Institute, ARC, Ministry of Agriculture, Giza, Egypt
| | - Hua Yang
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Zhibo Wang
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Xiaolei Yao
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.
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Overland MR, Li Y, Derpinghaus A, Aksel S, Cao M, Ladwig N, Cunha GR, Himelreich-Perić M, Baskin LS. Development of the human ovary: Fetal through pubertal ovarian morphology, folliculogenesis and expression of cellular differentiation markers. Differentiation 2023; 129:37-59. [PMID: 36347737 DOI: 10.1016/j.diff.2022.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
A definition of normal human fetal and early postnatal ovarian development is critical to the ability to accurately diagnose the presence or absence of functional ovarian tissue in clinical specimens. Through assembling an extensive histologic and immunohistochemical developmental ontogeny of human ovarian specimens from 8 weeks of gestation through 16 years of postnatal, we present a comprehensive immunohistochemical mapping of normal protein expression patterns in the early fetal through post-pubertal human ovary and detail a specific expression-based definition of the early stages of follicular development. Normal fetal and postnatal ovarian tissue is defined by the presence of follicular structures and characteristic immunohistochemical staining patterns, including granulosa cells expressing Forkhead Box Protein L2 (FOXL2). However, the current standard array of immunohistochemical markers poorly defines ovarian stromal tissue, and additional work is needed to identify new markers to advance our ability to accurately identify ovarian stromal components in gonadal specimens from patients with disorders of sexual differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya R Overland
- Department of Urology, University of California, 400 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Urology, University of California, 400 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Amber Derpinghaus
- Department of Urology, University of California, 400 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Sena Aksel
- Department of Urology, University of California, 400 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Mei Cao
- Department of Urology, University of California, 400 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Nicholas Ladwig
- Department of Pathology, University of California, 505 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Gerald R Cunha
- Department of Urology, University of California, 400 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
| | - Marta Himelreich-Perić
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Laurence S Baskin
- Department of Urology, University of California, 400 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
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7
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Tuersuntuoheti M, Zhang J, Zhou W, Zhang CL, Liu C, Chang Q, Liu S. Exploring the growth trait molecular markers in two sheep breeds based on Genome-wide association analysis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0283383. [PMID: 36952432 PMCID: PMC10035858 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0283383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Growth traits are quantitative traits controlled by multiple micro-effect genes. we identified molecular markers related to sheep growth traits, which formed the basis of molecular breeding. In this study, we randomly selected 100 Qira Black sheep and 84 German Merino sheep for the blood collection the jugular vein to genotype by using the Illumina Ovine SNP 50K Bead Chip. quality control criteria for statistical analysis were: rejection detection rate < 90% and minimum allele frequency (MAF) < 5%. Then, we performed Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) on sheep body weight, body height, body length, and chest circumference using mixed linear models. After getting 55 SNPs with significant correlation, they were annotated by reference genome of Ovis aries genome (Oar_v4.0) and We obtained a total of 84 candidate genes associated with production traits (BMPR1B, HSD17B3, TMEM63C, etc.). We selected BMPR1B for population validation and found a correlation between the FecB locus and body weight traits. Therefore, this study not only supplements the existing knowledge of molecular markers of sheep growth traits, but also has important theoretical significance and reference value for the mining of functional genes of sheep growth traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirenisa Tuersuntuoheti
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, China
- Tarim Science and Technology Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Alar, China
| | - Jihu Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, China
- Tarim Science and Technology Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Alar, China
| | - Wen Zhou
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, China
- Tarim Science and Technology Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Alar, China
| | - Cheng-Long Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, China
- Tarim Science and Technology Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Alar, China
| | - Chunjie Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, China
- Tarim Science and Technology Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Alar, China
| | - Qianqian Chang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, China
- Tarim Science and Technology Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Alar, China
| | - Shudong Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, China
- Tarim Science and Technology Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Alar, China
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8
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Genetic analysis of activin/inhibin β subunits in zebrafish development and reproduction. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1010523. [DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Activin and inhibin are both dimeric proteins sharing the same β subunits that belong to the TGF-β superfamily. They are well known for stimulating and inhibiting pituitary FSH secretion, respectively, in mammals. In addition, activin also acts as a mesoderm-inducing factor in frogs. However, their functions in development and reproduction of other species are poorly defined. In this study, we disrupted all three activin/inhibin β subunits (βAa, inhbaa; βAb, inhbab; and βB, inhbb) in zebrafish using CRISPR/Cas9. The loss of βAa/b but not βB led to a high mortality rate in the post-hatching stage. Surprisingly, the expression of fshb but not lhb in the pituitary increased in the female βA mutant together with aromatase (cyp19a1a) in the ovary. The single mutant of βAa/b showed normal folliculogenesis in young females; however, their double mutant (inhbaa-/-;inhbab-/-) showed delayed follicle activation, granulosa cell hypertrophy, stromal cell accumulation and tissue fibrosis. The ovary of inhbaa-/- deteriorated progressively after 180 dpf with reduced fecundity and the folliculogenesis ceased completely around 540 dpf. In addition, tumor- or cyst-like tissues started to appear in the inhbaa-/- ovary after about one year. In contrast to females, activin βAa/b mutant males showed normal spermatogenesis and fertility. As for activin βB subunit, the inhbb-/- mutant exhibited normal folliculogenesis, spermatogenesis and fertility in both sexes; however, the fecundity of mutant females decreased dramatically at 270 dpf with accumulation of early follicles. In summary, the activin-inhibin system plays an indispensable role in fish reproduction, in particular folliculogenesis and ovarian homeostasis.
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Russ JE, Haywood ME, Lane SL, Schoolcraft WB, Katz-Jaffe MG. Spatially resolved transcriptomic profiling of ovarian aging in mice. iScience 2022; 25:104819. [PMID: 35996587 PMCID: PMC9391589 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian aging precedes that of any other mammalian organ and is the primary cause of female age-related infertility. The biological mechanisms responsible for ovarian aging remain unclear. Previous studies have been limited by their use of bulk RNA-sequencing, which masks the dynamic and heterogeneous nature of the ovary. In this study, we spatially resolved the transcriptomic landscape of ovaries from young and aged outbred mice. In total, we defined eight main ovarian cell populations, all of which were characterized by significant transcriptomic changes between young and aged samples. Further sub-cluster analysis revealed separate transcriptomes for distinct granulosa cell populations found in young versus aged mice, in addition to an oocyte sub-cluster population completely absent from aged mouse ovaries. This study provides a new perspective on mammalian ovarian aging using spatial transcriptomics to achieve deeper understanding of the localization and cell-population-specific mechanisms underlying age-related fertility decline. Spatial transcriptomic analysis of murine ovarian aging characterizes cell populations Distinct granulosa cell populations exist in aged mice compared to young These are associated with the disruption of inhibins, activins, and gap junction activity Oocyte transcriptomes captured in vivo and within follicles of varying maturity
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer E. Russ
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, CO 80124, USA
| | - Mary E. Haywood
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, CO 80124, USA
| | - Sydney L. Lane
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, CO 80124, USA
| | | | - Mandy G. Katz-Jaffe
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, CO 80124, USA
- Corresponding author
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Meng X, Wang H, Hao J. Recent progress in drug development for fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva. Mol Cell Biochem 2022; 477:2327-2334. [PMID: 35536530 PMCID: PMC9499916 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-022-04446-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP) is a rare genetic disease caused by heterozygous missense mutations in Activin A receptor type I which is also known as Activin-like kinase 2 (ALK2), a type I receptor of Bone Morphogenetic Proteins(BMP). Patients with FOP usually undergo episodic flare-ups and the heterotopic ossification in soft and connective tissues. Molecular mechanism study indicates that Activin A, the ligand which normally transduces Transforming Growth Factor Beta signaling, abnormally activates BMP signaling through ALK2 mutants in FOP, leading to heterotopic bone formation. To date, effective therapies to FOP are unavailable. However, significant advances have recently been made in the development of FOP drugs. In this article, we review the recent advances in understanding the FOP mechanism and drug development, with a focus on the small-molecular and antibody drugs currently in the clinical trials for FOP treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinmiao Meng
- College of Arts and Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14850, USA
| | - Haotian Wang
- College of Arts and Sciences, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 191041, USA
| | - Jijun Hao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, 91766, USA.
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Marchais M, Gilbert I, Bastien A, Macaulay A, Robert C. Mammalian cumulus-oocyte complex communication: a dialog through long and short distance messaging. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:1011-1025. [PMID: 35499777 PMCID: PMC9107539 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02438-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Communications are crucial to ovarian follicle development and to ovulation, and while both folliculogenesis and oogenesis are distinct processes, they share highly interdependent signaling pathways. Signals from distant organs such as the brain must be processed and compartments within the follicle have to be synchronized. The hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis relies on long-distance signalling analogous to wireless communication by which data is disseminated in the environment and cells equipped with the appropriate receptors receive and interpret the messages. In contrast, direct cell-to-cell transfer of molecules is a very targeted, short distance messaging system. Numerous signalling pathways have been identified and proven to be essential for the production of a developmentally competent egg. The development of the cumulus-oocyte complex relies largely on short distance communications or direct transfer type via extensions of corona radiata cells through the zona pellucida. The type of information transmitted through these transzonal projections is still largely uncharacterized. This review provides an overview of current understanding of the mechanisms by which the gamete receives and transmits information within the follicle. Moreover, it highlights the fact that in addition to the well-known systemic long-distance based communications from the HPG axis, these mechanisms acting more locally should also be considered as important targets for controlling/optimizing oocyte quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Marchais
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Réseau Québécois en Reproduction (RQR), Pavillon Paul Comtois, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Isabelle Gilbert
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Réseau Québécois en Reproduction (RQR), Pavillon Paul Comtois, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Alexandre Bastien
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Réseau Québécois en Reproduction (RQR), Pavillon Paul Comtois, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Angus Macaulay
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Réseau Québécois en Reproduction (RQR), Pavillon Paul Comtois, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Claude Robert
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Réseau Québécois en Reproduction (RQR), Pavillon Paul Comtois, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.
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Tian S, Zhang H, Chang HM, Klausen C, Huang HF, Jin M, Leung PCK. Activin a promotes hyaluronan production and upregulates versican expression in human granulosa cells via the ALK4-SMAD2/3-SMAD4 signaling pathway. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:458-473. [PMID: 35403677 PMCID: PMC9382401 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac070] [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: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyaluronan is a structural component of the expanded cumulus matrix, and hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2) is the major enzyme for the synthesis of hyaluronan in humans. Versican cross-links the hyaluronan-rich matrix to cumulus cells and is critical for successful ovulation. Activin A is a critical intrafollicular regulator of ovarian function. Although activin A has been shown to promote cumulus matrix expansion in mice, the functional role of activin A in the regulation of cumulus expansion in the human ovary remains to be elucidated. Using primary and immortalized human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells as study models, we provide the first data showing that activin A increased the production of hyaluronan by upregulating the expression of HAS2 in these cells. Additionally, activin A also promoted the expression of the hyaluronan-binding protein versican. Moreover, using inhibitor- and siRNA-mediated inhibition approaches, we found that these stimulatory effects of activin A are most likely mediated through the type I receptor ALK4-mediated SMAD2/SMAD3-SMAD4 signaling pathway. Notably, the ChIP analyses demonstrated that SMAD4 could bind to human HAS2 and VERSICAN promoters. The results obtained from this in vitro study suggest that locally produced activin A plays a functional role in the regulation of hyaluronan production and stabilization in hGL cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shen Tian
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Han Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Center for Prenatal Diagnosis, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Christian Klausen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - He-Feng Huang
- The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics, Ministry of Education (Zhejiang University), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Min Jin
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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13
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Vatanparast M, Karimi Zarchi M, Nabi A, Ali Khalili M. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen presentation, as a marker of folliculogenesis, in the transplanted ovarian tissue. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2021; 47:4340-4349. [PMID: 34676952 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM One of the most important ways to understand the ovarian biology is studding the initiation of primordial follicle development and subsequent folliculogenesis control. In this study, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) presentation was used as a marker of follicular development in the thawed ovarian tissue (OT) following transplantation onto chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) using two methods of freezing of slow freezing and vitrification. METHODS Samples of OT from 10 patients were subjected to slow freezing and vitrification. After warming, CAM transplantation was done and PCNA proliferation index (PI; percent of PCNA-positive granulosa cells) was calculated for each follicle stage. Image J software was used to determine the mean staining intensity. RESULTS PCNA was positive for granulosa cells and oocytes nuclei, but negative for ooplasm. There were no remarkable PCNA staining in the granulosa cells of primordial follicles, but increased significantly as follicle progression (p < 0.05). Proliferation rate was also insignificantly higher in the vitrified than slow freezing group, before and after transplantation (p < 0.05). Lower PCNA presentation index was observed after CAM transplantation (p < 0.05). The earliest stage of follicular recruitment took place in the transitional follicles, before squamous cells transform to cuboidal cells. CONCLUSION PCNA showed that follicles had proliferation power after cryopreservation. Higher presentation after vitrification may indicate accelerated folliculogenesis in the thawed OT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahboubeh Vatanparast
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Mojgan Karimi Zarchi
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Nabi
- Andrology Research Center, Yazd Reproductive Science Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Khalili
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Science Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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14
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Bao Y, Yao X, Li X, Ei-Samahy MA, Yang H, Liang Y, Liu Z, Wang F. INHBA transfection regulates proliferation, apoptosis and hormone synthesis in sheep granulosa cells. Theriogenology 2021; 175:111-122. [PMID: 34537472 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Inhibin subunit beta A (INHBA) participates in the synthesis of inhibin A, activin A and activin AB. Here we investigated the effect and molecular mechanism of INHBA on proliferation, apoptosis and hormone synthesis in sheep granulosa cells (GCs) using in vitro transfection. We first noticed that INHBA expression increased with follicle diameter and was widely distributed in ovarian tissue. The proliferation rate of GCs was significantly increased and decreased with overexpression and silence of INHBA, respectively, compared with the negative controls. INHBA transfection affected GC proliferation and apoptosis, regulating the expression of many cell cycle-related and apoptosis-related genes. INHBA overexpression significantly decreased activin and estradiol secretion while increasing inhibin and progesterone secretion. The expression of follicle-stimulating hormone beta subunit was significantly decreased and increased with INHBA overexpression and knockdown, respectively. Notably, silence of INHBA inhibited the expression of many transforming growth factor beta-related genes. Overall, the functional molecule of INHBA gene may be associated with follicular development via regulating proliferation, apoptosis and folliculogenesis-related hormone secretion of sheep GCs. In addition, our findings may contribute to a better understanding of the law of follicular development and thus improve the reproductive performance of female animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjin Bao
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Xiaolei Yao
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Xiaodan Li
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - M A Ei-Samahy
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Hua Yang
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Yaxu Liang
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Zifei Liu
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.
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15
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The Association between the Activin A Serum Level and Carotid Intima-Media Thickness in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients. Int J Nephrol 2020; 2020:8893653. [PMID: 33294228 PMCID: PMC7700056 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8893653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 10/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with high mortality rates, mainly as a result of cardiovascular complications. Meanwhile, recent studies have suggested a role of a homodimer protein called activin A in chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD) conditions that may exist in the vascular calcification and osteolytic process. Ultrasound examination of the carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) is a noninvasive method to assess vascular calcification. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between the activin A serum level and cIMT in patients with CKD at Mohammad Hoesin Hospital, Palembang, Indonesia. Methods We conducted a hospital-based, cross-sectional study of consecutive CKD patients at the Department of Internal Medicine, Mohammad Hoesin Hospital, from July to November 2019. The level of activin A was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Meanwhile, cIMT measurements were collected by B-mode ultrasound imaging. Results A total of 55 patients with CKD were included in this investigation. The median serum activin A level in these patients was 236.17 (116.33–283) pg/mL, while the median cIMT was 0.8 (0.6–1.45) mm. A relationship between the serum activin A level and cIMT (r = 0.449; p = 0.001) was observed. During multivariate analysis with linear regression, triglyceride (p = 0.049), phosphate (p = 0.005), and activin A (p = 0.020) serum levels were factors associated with cIMT. Conclusion In this study, a relationship between the activin A serum level and cIMT in patients with CKD was identified. Vascular calcification should be screened for in all CKD patients by the measurement of cIMT.
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Lu H, Zhao C, Zhu B, Zhang Z, Ge W. Loss of Inhibin Advances Follicle Activation and Female Puberty Onset but Blocks Oocyte Maturation in Zebrafish. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5921142. [PMID: 33045050 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Inhibin was first characterized in mammals as a gonadal dimeric protein that inhibited pituitary follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion. As in mammals, the inhibin-specific α subunit (INHA/Inha/inha) has also been characterized in teleosts; however, its functions and physiological importance in fish reproduction remain unknown. Using CRISPR/Cas9 method, we generated an inha-deficient zebrafish line and analyzed its reproductive performance. As expected, pituitary expression of fshb increased significantly in both the young and the adult inha mutant. The expression of lhb also increased in the mutant, but only in sexually mature adults. Interestingly, the expression of activin βA (inhbaa) increased significantly in both the ovary and the testis of inha mutant, and the expression of ovarian aromatase (cyp19a1a) also increased dramatically in the mutant ovary. The juvenile female mutant showed clear signs of early follicle activation or precocious puberty onset. However, the adult female mutant was infertile with follicles arrested at the full-grown stage without final oocyte maturation and ovulation. Although follicle growth was normal overall in the mutant, the size and distribution of yolk granules in oocytes were distinct and some follicles showed granulosa cell hypertrophy. In contrast to females, inha-null males showed normal spermatogenesis and fertility. As reported in mammals, we also found sporadic tumor formation in inha mutants. Taken together, our study not only confirmed some conserved roles of inhibin across vertebrates, such as inhibition of FSH biosynthesis and tumor formation, but also revealed novel aspects of inhibin functions such as disruption of folliculogenesis and female infertility but no obvious involvement in spermatogenesis in fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huijie Lu
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Cheng Zhao
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Bo Zhu
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Zhiwei Zhang
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Wei Ge
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
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17
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Bildik G, Akin N, Esmaeilian Y, Hela F, Yildiz CS, Iltumur E, İncir S, Karahuseyinoglu S, Yakin K, Oktem O. Terminal differentiation of human granulosa cells as luteinization is reversed by activin-A through silencing of Jnk pathway. Cell Death Discov 2020; 6:93. [PMID: 33042587 PMCID: PMC7511402 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-020-00324-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular mechanisms underlying luteinization (terminal differentiation of granulosa and theca cells after ovulation) and luteolysis (demise of corpus luteum) are poorly understood in human ovary. Here we report that activin-A, after binding to its cognate receptors induces a functional luteolytic state and reverses luteinization phenotype by downregulating the expression of the steroidogenic enzymes, LH receptor and VEGF and reducing estradiol (E2) progesterone (P4) production and upregulating FSH receptor and cyclin D1 expression in human primary luteinized granulosa cells. Further, this action of activin-A involves downregulation of JNK signaling pathway and is opposite to that of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which acts as a luteotropic hormone and improves luteal function through the activation of JNK pathway in the same cell type. Reversal of luteinization phenotype in luteal granulosa cells by activin-A potentially makes this hormone an attractive candidate for use under certain clinical situations, where induction of luteolysis and rapid reduction of endogenous sex steroid levels are beneficial such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), in which the ovaries hyper-respond to gonadotropin stimulation by producing too many growing follicles along with development of ascites, pleural effusion, and hemo-concentrations as a result of increased vascular permeability and leakage of intravascular volume into third spaces. Our work unveils a previously undefined role for activin-A and JNK signaling pathway in human corpus luteum biology, that might have a direct clinical impact in assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gamze Bildik
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Nazli Akin
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBL), Department of Pathology/Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Vrije Universiteit, 1050 Brussel, Belgium
| | - Yashar Esmaeilian
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Francesko Hela
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ceren Sultan Yildiz
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ece Iltumur
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Said İncir
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory, Koc University Hospital, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Sercin Karahuseyinoglu
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Koc University School of Medicine, 34010 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Kayhan Yakin
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koc University Hospital and School of Medicine, 34010 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ozgur Oktem
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koc University, 34450 Istanbul, Turkey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koc University Hospital and School of Medicine, 34010 Istanbul, Turkey
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18
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DeWitt NA, Whirledge S, Kallen AN. Updates on molecular and environmental determinants of luteal progesterone production. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 515:110930. [PMID: 32610113 PMCID: PMC7484338 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone, a critical hormone in reproduction, is a key sex steroid in the establishment and maintenance of early pregnancy and serves as an intermediary for synthesis of other steroid hormones. Progesterone production from the corpus luteum is a tightly regulated process which is stimulated and maintained by multiple factors, both systemic and local. Multiple regulatory systems, including classic mediators of gonadotropin stimulation such as the cAMP/PKA pathway and TGFβ-mediated signaling pathways, as well as local production of hormonal factors, exist to promote granulosa cell function and physiological fine-tuning of progesterone levels. In this manuscript, we provide an updated narrative review of the known mediators of human luteal progesterone and highlight new observations regarding this important process, focusing on studies published within the last five years. We will also review recent evidence suggesting that this complex system of progesterone production is sensitive to disruption by exogenous environmental chemicals that can mimic or interfere with the activities of endogenous hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie A DeWitt
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Shannon Whirledge
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Amanda N Kallen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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19
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Newly Identified Regulators of Ovarian Folliculogenesis and Ovulation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21124565. [PMID: 32604954 PMCID: PMC7349727 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Each follicle represents the basic functional unit of the ovary. From its very initial stage of development, the follicle consists of an oocyte surrounded by somatic cells. The oocyte grows and matures to become fertilizable and the somatic cells proliferate and differentiate into the major suppliers of steroid sex hormones as well as generators of other local regulators. The process by which a follicle forms, proceeds through several growing stages, develops to eventually release the mature oocyte, and turns into a corpus luteum (CL) is known as “folliculogenesis”. The task of this review is to define the different stages of folliculogenesis culminating at ovulation and CL formation, and to summarize the most recent information regarding the newly identified factors that regulate the specific stages of this highly intricated process. This information comprises of either novel regulators involved in ovarian biology, such as Ube2i, Phoenixin/GPR73, C1QTNF, and α-SNAP, or recently identified members of signaling pathways previously reported in this context, namely PKB/Akt, HIPPO, and Notch.
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20
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Appiah Adu-Gyamfi E, Tanam Djankpa F, Nelson W, Czika A, Kumar Sah S, Lamptey J, Ding YB, Wang YX. Activin and inhibin signaling: From regulation of physiology to involvement in the pathology of the female reproductive system. Cytokine 2020; 133:155105. [PMID: 32438278 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2020.155105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Activins and inhibins - comprising activin A, B, AB, C and E, and inhibin A and B isoforms - belong to the transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) superfamily. They regulate several biological processes, including cellular proliferation, differentiation and invasiveness, to enhance the formation and functioning of many human tissues and organs. In this review, we have discussed the role of activin and inhibin signaling in the physiological and female-specific pathological events that occur in the female reproductive system. The up-to-date evidence indicates that these cytokines regulate germ cell development, follicular development, ovulation, uterine receptivity, decidualization and placentation through the activation of several signaling pathways; and that their dysregulated expression is involved in the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of the numerous diseases, including pregnancy complications, that disturb reproduction. Hence, some of the isoforms have been suggested as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for the management of some of these diseases. Tackling the research directions highlighted in this review will enhance a detailed comprehension and the clinical utility of these cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enoch Appiah Adu-Gyamfi
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Francis Tanam Djankpa
- Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana.
| | - William Nelson
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health and Social Sciences, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es salaam, Tanzania.
| | - Armin Czika
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Sanjay Kumar Sah
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jones Lamptey
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, KCCR, Ghana.
| | - Yu-Bin Ding
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ying-Xiong Wang
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, People's Republic of China.
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21
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Chen B, Chang HM, Zhang Z, Cao Y, Leung PCK. ALK4-SMAD3/4 mediates the effects of activin A on the upregulation of PAI-1 in human granulosa lutein cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 505:110731. [PMID: 31982478 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
In the mammalian ovary, the proteolysis of the extracellular matrix is dynamically regulated by plasminogen activator and plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI), and it is a critical event that influences various physiological and pathological processes. Activin A is a member of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily and is expressed at a high level in human luteal cells that play an essential role in the regulation of the luteal function. At present, it is not known whether activin A can regulate the expression and production of PAI in human granulosa lutein (hGL) cells. The present study aimed to examine the effects of activin A on the expression and production of intraovarian PAI-1 and the underlying molecular mechanisms. Using primary and immortalized hGL cells as the cell model, we demonstrated that activin A upregulated the expression of PAI-1 and increased the production of PAI-1 in an autocrine/paracrine manner. Additionally, using a dual inhibition approach (molecular inhibitors and siRNA-mediated knockdown), we showed that this biological function is mediated by the ALK4-mediated SMAD3-SMAD4-dependent signaling pathway. Our findings suggest that activin A may be involved in the regulation of luteal function via the induction of PAI-1 expression and an increase in PAI-1 production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beili Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Zhiguo Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
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22
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The Ovarian Transcriptome of Reproductively Aged Multiparous Mice: Candidate Genes for Ovarian Cancer Protection. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10010113. [PMID: 31936467 PMCID: PMC7022285 DOI: 10.3390/biom10010113] [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: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In middle-aged women, the decline of ovarian follicle reserve below a critical threshold marks menopause, leading to hormonal, inflammatory, and metabolic changes linked to disease. The highest incidence and mortality of sporadic ovarian cancer (OC) occur at post-menopause, while OC risk is reduced by full-term pregnancies during former fertile life. Herein, we investigate how parity history modulates the ovarian transcriptome related to such declining follicle pool and systemic inflammation in reproductively-aged mice. Female C57BL/6 mice were housed under multiparous and virgin (nulliparous) breeding regimens from adulthood until estropause. The ovaries were then subjected to follicle count and transcriptional profiling, while a cytokine panel was determined in the sera. As expected, the follicle number was markedly decreased just by aging. Importantly, a significantly higher count of primordial and total follicles was observed in aged multiparous relative to aged virgin ovaries. Consistently, among the 65 genes of higher expression in aged multiparous ovaries, 27 showed a follicle count-like pattern, 21 had traceable evidence of roles in follicular/oocyte homeostasis, and 7 were transforming-growth factor beta (TGF-β)/bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) superfamily members. The remaining genes were enriched in cell chemotaxis and innate-immunity, and resembled the profiles of circulating CXCL1, CXCL2, CXCL5, CSF3, and CCL3, chemokines detected at higher levels in aged multiparous mice. We conclude that multiparity during reproductive life promotes the retention of follicle remnants while improving local (ovarian) and systemic immune-innate surveillance in aged female mice. These findings could underlie the mechanisms by which pregnancy promotes the long-term reduced OC risk observed at post-menopause.
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'Free' inhibin α subunit is expressed by bovine ovarian theca cells and its knockdown suppresses androgen production. Sci Rep 2019; 9:19793. [PMID: 31874971 PMCID: PMC6930203 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-55829-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibins are ovarian dimeric glycoprotein hormones that suppress pituitary FSH production. They are synthesised by follicular granulosa cells as α plus βA/βB subunits (encoded by INHA, INHBA, INHBB, respectively). Inhibin concentrations are high in follicular fluid (FF) which is also abundant in ‘free’ α subunit, presumed to be of granulosal origin, but its role(s) remains obscure. Here, we report the unexpected finding that bovine theca cells show abundant INHA expression and ‘free’ inhibin α production. Thus, theca cells may contribute significantly to the inhibin α content of FF and peripheral blood. In vitro, knockdown of thecal INHA inhibited INSL3 and CYP17A1 expression and androgen production while INSL3 knockdown reduced INHA and inhibin α secretion. These findings suggest a positive role of thecal inhibin α on androgen production. However, exogenous inhibin α did not raise androgen production. We hypothesised that inhibin α may modulate the opposing effects of BMP and inhibin on androgen production. However, this was not supported experimentally. Furthermore, neither circulating nor intrafollicular androgen concentrations differed between control and inhibin α-immunized heifers, casting further doubt on thecal inhibin α subunit having a significant role in modulating androgen production. Role(s), if any, played by thecal inhibin α remain elusive.
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Reader KL, Marino FE, Nicholson HD, Risbridger GP, Gold EJ. Role of activin C in normal ovaries and granulosa cell tumours of mice and humans. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 30:958-968. [PMID: 29207252 DOI: 10.1071/rd17250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Activins and inhibins play important roles in the development, growth and function of the ovary. Mice lacking inhibin develop granulosa cell tumours in their ovaries that secrete activin A, and these tumours are modulated by increased activin C expression. The aim of the present study was to identify where activin C is expressed in mouse and human ovaries and whether overexpression of activin C modulates normal follicular development in mice. Immunohistochemical staining for the activin βC subunit was performed on sections from mouse and human ovaries and human adult granulosa cell tumours. Stereology techniques were used to quantify oocyte and follicular diameters, and the percentage of different follicular types in ovaries from wild-type mice and those underexpressing inhibin α and/or overexpressing activin C. Staining for activin βC was observed in the oocytes, granulosa cells, thecal cells and surface epithelium of mouse and human ovaries, and in the granulosa-like cells of adult granulosa cell tumours. Overexpression of activin C in mice did not alter follicular development compared with wild-type mice, but it did modulate the development of abnormal early stage follicles in inhibin α-null mice. These results provide further evidence of a role for activin C in the ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen L Reader
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | | | - Helen D Nicholson
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Gail P Risbridger
- Consortium and Cancer Program Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic. 3800, Australia
| | - Elspeth J Gold
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
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Liu C, Chang HM, Yi Y, Fang Y, Zhao F, Leung PCK, Yang X. ALK4-SMAD2/3-SMAD4 signaling mediates the activin A-induced suppression of PTX3 in human granulosa-lutein cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 493:110485. [PMID: 31185247 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.110485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Revised: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
As one of the members of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily, activin A plays an important role in regulating follicular development and oocyte maturation. Pentraxin 3 (PTX3) is the key component that promotes the process of cumulus expansion during mammalian ovulation. At present, the regulation of PTX3 expression in human granulosa cells remains largely unknown. This study aimed to examine the effects of activin A on the expression of PTX3 in human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells and to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms. Using an established immortalized hGL cell line (SVOG) and primary hGL cells as study models, we demonstrated that activin A significantly increased the phosphorylation of SMAD2 and SMAD3, which suppressed the expression of PTX3 at both the mRNA and protein levels. Additionally, these effects induced by activin A were completely reversed by pretreatment with the TGF-β type I receptor inhibitor SB431542 and knockdown of ALK4. Furthermore, knockdown of SMAD2, SMAD3, or SMAD4 completely reversed the activin A-induced suppressive effects on PTX3 expression. Notably, the ChIP analyses demonstrated that phosphorylated SMADs could bind to human PTX3 promoter. Collectively, our results showed that the ALK4-SMAD2/3-SMAD4 signaling pathway most likely mediates the suppressive effect of activin A on PTX3 expression in hGL cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Liu
- Department of Human Reproductive Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Yuyin Yi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ying Fang
- Department of Human Reproductive Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Feiyan Zhao
- Department of Human Reproductive Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
| | - Xiaokui Yang
- Department of Human Reproductive Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
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26
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Age-related changes in luteal dynamics: preliminary associations with antral follicular dynamics and hormone production during the human menstrual cycle. Menopause 2019; 25:399-407. [PMID: 29112593 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000001021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to test the hypothesis that the development of luteal phase dominant follicles (LPDFs) as women age is associated with abnormal luteal function. METHODS Luteal and antral follicle diameter were quantified in ovulatory women of midreproductive age (MRA; 18-35 y; n = 9) and advanced reproductive age (ARA; 45-55 y; n = 16) every 1 to 3 days during one complete interovulatory interval. Blood was drawn at each visit and assayed for progesterone, estradiol, inhibin A, follicle-stimulating hormone, and luteinizing hormone. Luteal diameter and hormone profiles were compared within MRA and ARA women with versus without LPDFs. RESULTS Luteal growth and regression profiles were similar in MRA women with typical versus no LPDFs (13.9, 14.8 mm; P > 0.1); however, luteal phase estradiol and progesterone were greater in MRA women with typical (91.1 ng/L, 8.81 μg/L) versus no (48.8 ng/L, 7.32 μg/L) LPDFs, respectively (LPDF effect, P < 0.1). In the ARA group, mean luteal diameter was lowest in women with atypical LPDFs (12.3 mm), greatest in those with typical LPDFs (16.0 mm), and moderate in those with no LPDFs (13.6 mm), (P < 0.1). Reduced luteal growth in ARA women with atypical versus typical and/or no LPDFs occurred simultaneously to greater luteal phase estradiol (199 vs 69.0, 78.4 ng/L) lower progesterone (7.38 vs 10.7, 13.8 ug/L), and lower inhibin A (36.3, 35.6, 51.2) (P < 0.1). CONCLUSIONS The development of LPDFs as women age was associated with reduced luteal growth, greater estradiol, lower progesterone, and lower inhibin A. These findings provide preliminary evidence that variations in antral folliculogenesis contribute to luteal insufficiency during the menopausal transition.
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27
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Ge W, Li L, Dyce PW, De Felici M, Shen W. Establishment and depletion of the ovarian reserve: physiology and impact of environmental chemicals. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:1729-1746. [PMID: 30810760 PMCID: PMC11105173 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03028-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 01/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The reproductive life span in women starts at puberty and ends at menopause, following the exhaustion of the follicle stockpile termed the ovarian reserve. Increasing data from experimental animal models and epidemiological studies indicate that exposure to a number of ubiquitously distributed reproductively toxic environmental chemicals (RTECs) can contribute to earlier menopause and even premature ovarian failure. However, the causative relationship between environmental chemical exposure and earlier menopause in women remains poorly understood. The present work, is an attempt to review the current evidence regarding the effects of RTECs on the main ovarian activities in mammals, focusing on how such compounds can affect the ovarian reserve at any stages of ovarian development. We found that in rodents, strong evidence exists that in utero, neonatal, prepubescent and even adult exposure to RTECs leads to impaired functioning of the ovary and a shortening of the reproductive lifespan. Regarding human, data from cross-sectional surveys suggest that human exposure to certain environmental chemicals can compromise a woman's reproductive health and in some cases, correlate with earlier menopause. In conclusion, evidences exist that exposure to RTECs can compromise a woman's reproductive health. However, human exposures may date back to the developmental stage, while the adverse effects are usually diagnosed decades later, thus making it difficult to determine the association between RTECs exposure and human reproductive health. Therefore, epidemiological surveys and more experimental investigation on humans, or alternatively primates, are needed to determine the direct and indirect effects caused by RTECs exposure on the ovary function, and to characterize their action mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Ge
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Lan Li
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Paul W Dyce
- Department of Animal Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Massimo De Felici
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy.
| | - Wei Shen
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China.
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28
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Tanaka Y, Matsuzaki T, Tanaka N, Iwasa T, Kuwahara A, Irahara M. Activin effects on follicular growth in in vitro preantral follicle culture. THE JOURNAL OF MEDICAL INVESTIGATION 2019; 66:165-171. [DOI: 10.2152/jmi.66.165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Toshiya Matsuzaki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Naoko Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Takeshi Iwasa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Akira Kuwahara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Minoru Irahara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
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29
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Li X, Ye J, Han X, Qiao R, Li X, Lv G, Wang K. Whole-genome sequencing identifies potential candidate genes for reproductive traits in pigs. Genomics 2019; 112:199-206. [PMID: 30707936 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2019.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2018] [Revised: 01/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive performance is a complex quantitative trait, that is determined by multiple genes, regulatory pathways and environmental factors. A list of major genes with large effect have been detected, although multiple QTLs are identified. To identify candidate genes for pig prolificacy, whole genome variants from five high- and five low-prolificacy Yorkshire sows were collected using whole-genome resequencing. A total of 13,955,609 SNPs and 2,666,366 indels were detected across the genome. Common differential SNPs and indels were identified between the two groups of sows. Genes encoding components of the TGF-beta signaling pathway were enriched with the variations, including BMP5, BMP6, BMP7, ACVR1, INHBA, ZFYVE9, TGFBR2, DCN, ID4, BAMBI, and ACVR2A. Several differential variants within these genes related to reproductive traits were identified to be associated with litter size. A comparison of selective regions and published QTL data suggests that NEDD9, SLC39A11, SNCA, and UNC5D are candidate genes for reproduction traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinjian Li
- College of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianwei Ye
- College of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuelei Han
- College of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruimin Qiao
- College of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiuling Li
- College of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Gang Lv
- College of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Kejun Wang
- College of Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, Henan, People's Republic of China.
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30
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Wang X, Mittal P, Castro CA, Rajkovic G, Rajkovic A. Med12 regulates ovarian steroidogenesis, uterine development and maternal effects in the mammalian egg. Biol Reprod 2019; 97:822-834. [PMID: 29126187 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The transcriptional factor MED12 is part of the essential mediator transcriptional complex that acts as a transcriptional coactivator in all eukaryotes. Missense gain-of-function mutations in human MED12 are associated with uterine leiomyomas, yet the role of MED12 deficiency in tumorigenesis and reproductive biology has not been fully explored. We generated a Med12 reproductive conditional knockout mouse model to evaluate its role in uterine mesenchyme, granulosa cells, and oocytes. Mice heterozygous for Med12 deficiency in granulosa cells and uterus (Med12fl/+ Amhr2-Cre) were subfertile, while mice homozygous for Med12 deficiency in granulosa cells and uterus (Med12fl/fl Amhr2-Cre) were infertile. Morphological and histological analysis of the Med12fl/fl Amhr2-Cre reproductive tract revealed atrophic uteri and hyperchromatic granulosa cells with disrupted expression of Lhcgr, Esr1, and Esr2. Med12fl/fl Amhr2-Cre mice estrous cycle was disrupted, and serum analysis showed blunted rise in estradiol in response to pregnant mare serum gonadotropin. Uterine atrophy was partially rescued by exogenous steroid supplementation with dysregulation of Notch1 and Smo expression in steroid supplemented Med12fl/fl Amhr2-Cre uteri, indicating intrinsic uterine defects. Oocyte-specific ablation of Med12 caused infertility without disrupting normal folliculogenesis and ovulation, consistent with maternal effects of Med12 in early embryo development. These results show the critical importance of Med12 in reproductive tract development and that Med12 loss of function does not cause tumorigenesis in reproductive tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinye Wang
- Tsinghua MD Program, Tsinghua University School of Medicine, Beijing, China.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Priya Mittal
- Department of Human Genetics, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Carlos A Castro
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Gabriel Rajkovic
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Aleksandar Rajkovic
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Human Genetics, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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31
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Matiller V, Hein GJ, Stassi AF, Angeli E, Belotti EM, Ortega HH, Rey F, Salvetti NR. Expression of TGFBR1, TGFBR2, TGFBR3, ACVR1B and ACVR2B is altered in ovaries of cows with cystic ovarian disease. Reprod Domest Anim 2019; 54:46-54. [PMID: 30120850 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to examine the expression of transforming growth factor beta receptor (TGFBR)1, TGFBR2, TGFBR3, activin receptor (ACVR)1B and ACVR2B in ovaries of cows with cystic ovarian disease (COD). The expression of the selected receptors was determined by immunohistochemistry in sections of ovaries from cows with ACTH-induced and spontaneous COD. Expression of TGFBR1 and TGFBR3 was higher in granulosa cells of cysts from cows with spontaneous COD than in tertiary follicles from the control group. Additionally, TGFBR3 expression was higher in granulosa cells of cysts from cows with ACTH-induced COD than in those from the control group and lower in theca cells of spontaneous and ACTH-induced cysts than in tertiary control follicles. There were no changes in the expression of TGFBR2. ACVR1B expression was higher in granulosa cells of tertiary follicles of cows with spontaneous COD than in the control group, whereas ACVR2B expression was higher in cysts of the spontaneous COD group than in tertiary follicles from the control group. The alterations here detected, together with the altered expression of the ligands previously reported, indicate alterations in the response of the ligands in the target cells, modifying their actions at cellular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Matiller
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular Aplicada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL)/Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina.,Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral, UNL, Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Gustavo J Hein
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular Aplicada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL)/Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina.,Centro Universitario Gálvez, Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL), Gálvez, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Antonela F Stassi
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular Aplicada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL)/Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Emmanuel Angeli
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular Aplicada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL)/Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina.,Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral, UNL, Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Eduardo M Belotti
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular Aplicada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL)/Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina.,Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral, UNL, Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Hugo H Ortega
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular Aplicada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL)/Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina.,Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral, UNL, Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Florencia Rey
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular Aplicada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL)/Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina.,Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral, UNL, Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Natalia R Salvetti
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular Aplicada, Instituto de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral (ICiVet-Litoral), Universidad Nacional del Litoral (UNL)/Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina.,Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias del Litoral, UNL, Esperanza, Santa Fe, Argentina
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32
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Wentworth KL, Masharani U, Hsiao EC. Therapeutic advances for blocking heterotopic ossification in fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2019; 85:1180-1187. [PMID: 30501012 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.13823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is a rare genetic disease in which heterotopic bone forms in muscle and soft tissue, leading to joint dysfunction and significant disability. FOP is progressive and many patients are wheelchair-bound by the 3rd decade of life. FOP is caused by an activating mutation in the ACVR1 gene, which encodes the activin A Type 1 receptor. Aberrant signalling through this receptor leads to abnormal activation of the pSMAD 1/5/8 pathway and triggers the formation of bone outside of the skeleton. There is no curative therapy for FOP; however, exciting advances in novel therapies have developed recently. Here, we review the clinical and translational pharmacology of three drugs that are currently in clinical trials (palovarotene, REGN 2477 and rapamycin) as well as other emerging treatment strategies for FOP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly L Wentworth
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Institute for Human Genetics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Umesh Masharani
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Edward C Hsiao
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Institute for Human Genetics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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33
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Bloise E, Ciarmela P, Dela Cruz C, Luisi S, Petraglia F, Reis FM. Activin A in Mammalian Physiology. Physiol Rev 2019; 99:739-780. [DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00002.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Activins are dimeric glycoproteins belonging to the transforming growth factor beta superfamily and resulting from the assembly of two beta subunits, which may also be combined with alpha subunits to form inhibins. Activins were discovered in 1986 following the isolation of inhibins from porcine follicular fluid, and were characterized as ovarian hormones that stimulate follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) release by the pituitary gland. In particular, activin A was shown to be the isoform of greater physiological importance in humans. The current understanding of activin A surpasses the reproductive system and allows its classification as a hormone, a growth factor, and a cytokine. In more than 30 yr of intense research, activin A was localized in female and male reproductive organs but also in other organs and systems as diverse as the brain, liver, lung, bone, and gut. Moreover, its roles include embryonic differentiation, trophoblast invasion of the uterine wall in early pregnancy, and fetal/neonate brain protection in hypoxic conditions. It is now recognized that activin A overexpression may be either cytostatic or mitogenic, depending on the cell type, with important implications for tumor biology. Activin A also regulates bone formation and regeneration, enhances joint inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis, and triggers pathogenic mechanisms in the respiratory system. In this 30-yr review, we analyze the evidence for physiological roles of activin A and the potential use of activin agonists and antagonists as therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrrico Bloise
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
| | - Pasquapina Ciarmela
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
| | - Cynthia Dela Cruz
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
| | - Stefano Luisi
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
| | - Fernando M. Reis
- Department of Morphology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecological Clinic, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; and Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences, Division of Obstetrics and
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Runx3 regulates folliculogenesis and steroidogenesis in granulosa cells of immature mice. Cell Tissue Res 2018; 375:743-754. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-018-2947-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Puttabyatappa M, Padmanabhan V. Ovarian and Extra-Ovarian Mediators in the Development of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 61:R161-R184. [PMID: 29941488 PMCID: PMC6192837 DOI: 10.1530/jme-18-0079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age. The origin of PCOS is still not clear and appears to be a function of gene x environment interactions. This review addresses the current knowledge of the genetic and developmental contributions to the etiology of PCOS, the ovarian and extra-ovarian mediators of PCOS and the gaps and key challenges that need to be addressed in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of PCOS.
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Juengel JL, Smith PR, Quirke LD, French MC, Edwards SJ. The local regulation of folliculogenesis by members of the transforming growth factor superfamily and its relevance for advanced breeding programmes. Anim Reprod 2018; 15:180-190. [PMID: 34178140 PMCID: PMC8202455 DOI: 10.21451/1984-3143-ar2018-0055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulation of the growth and maturation of the ovarian follicle is critical for normal reproductive function. Alterations in this growth can lead to pathological conditions, such as cystic follicles, reduced oocyte quality, or an abnormal endocrine environment leading to poor fertility. Alterations in follicular growth also influence the number of follicles ovulating and thus can change litter size. Both endocrine factors, such as follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone, as well as local factors, are known to regulate follicular growth and development. This review will focus on the role of local factors in regulation of ovarian follicular growth in ruminants, with a focus on members of the transforming growth factor superfamily. The potential role of these factors in regulating proliferation, apoptosis, steroidogenesis and responsiveness to gonadotrophins will be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Juengel
- Reproduction, Animal Science, AgResearch Ltd., Invermay Agricultural Centre, Mosgiel New Zealand
| | - Peter R Smith
- Reproduction, Animal Science, AgResearch Ltd., Invermay Agricultural Centre, Mosgiel New Zealand
| | - Laurel D Quirke
- Reproduction, Animal Science, AgResearch Ltd., Invermay Agricultural Centre, Mosgiel New Zealand
| | - Michelle C French
- Reproduction, Animal Science, AgResearch Ltd., Invermay Agricultural Centre, Mosgiel New Zealand
| | - Sara J Edwards
- Reproduction, Animal Science, AgResearch Ltd., Invermay Agricultural Centre, Mosgiel New Zealand
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Garito T, Zakaria M, Papanicolaou DA, Li Y, Pinot P, Petricoul O, Laurent D, Rooks D, Rondon JC, Roubenoff R. Effects of bimagrumab, an activin receptor type II inhibitor, on pituitary neurohormonal axes. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2018; 88:908-919. [PMID: 29566437 DOI: 10.1111/cen.13601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2017] [Revised: 03/15/2018] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bimagrumab is a human monoclonal antibody inhibitor of activin type II receptors (ActRII), with anabolic action on skeletal muscle mass by blocking binding of myostatin and other negative regulators of muscle growth. Bimagrumab is under evaluation for muscle wasting and associated functional loss in hip fracture and sarcopenia, and in obesity. Bimagrumab also blocks other endogenous ActRII ligands, such as activins, which act on the neurohormonal axes, pituitary, gonads and adrenal glands. AIM To evaluate the effect of bimagrumab on the pituitary-gonadal and pituitary-adrenal axes in humans. METHODS Healthy men and women, aged 55 to 75 years, received bimagrumab intravenously 10 mg/kg or placebo on Day 1 and Day 29. Pituitary-gonadal and pituitary-adrenal functions were evaluated with basal hormone measurement and standard gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation tests at baseline, Week 8 and at the end of study (EOS)-Week 20. RESULTS At Week 8, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels were reduced by 42.16 IU/L (P < .001) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were increased by 2.5 IU/L (P = .08) over placebo in response to bimagrumab in women but not in men. Effects that were reversible after bimagrumab was cleared. Gonadal and adrenal androgen levels were not affected by exposure to bimagrumab. CONCLUSION Bimagrumab alters the function of pituitary gonadotroph cells, consistent with blockade of activin on local ActRII. This effect is reversible with clearance of bimagrumab. Bimagrumab did not impact gonadal and adrenal androgen secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Garito
- San Raffaele Diabetes Research Institute, Milan, Italy
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Yifang Li
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Cambridge, USA
| | - Pascale Pinot
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Didier Laurent
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Rooks
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Cambridge, USA
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Ahmad I, Jagtap DD, Selvaa Kumar C, Balasinor NH, Babitha Rani AM, Agarwal D, Saharan N. Molecular characterization of inhibin-A: Structure and expression analysis in Clarias batrachus. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2018; 261:104-114. [PMID: 29438674 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2017] [Revised: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The inhibins are disulphide-linked heterodimeric glycoproteins that belong to the TGFβ superfamily. Inhibins have been well studied in mammals but the information about their structure and function is very limited in lower vertebrates. The aim of the present study was to characterize inhibin-A and to understand its receptor binding interaction, and to evaluate its biological function in Clarias batrachus. Structure prediction of inhibin-A revealed two glycosylation sites on inhibin-α (Asp262 and Asn334). Docking of inhibin-A with its receptor; betaglycan and Act RIIA showed that residues Ser321, Gly324 and Leu325 of inhibin-α are involved in high affinity binding with betaglycan while inhibin-βA bound to Act RIIA by forming hydrogen bonds. The mRNA transcript analysis of various tissues indicated the presence of higher to moderate expression of inhibin-α and inhibin-βA in the gonads and the extra-gonadal tissues. Further, stage specific expression showed decreased levels of inhibin-α in the gonads during the annual reproductive cycles. Inhibin-βA, activin-βB and Act RIIA increased in the brain during spawning while FSHr increased in the gonads during the preparatory phase. Our study provides molecular, structural and functional insights of inhibin-A for the first time in C. batrachus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irshad Ahmad
- ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Panch Marg, Yari Road, Versova, Andheri West, Mumbai 400061, India
| | - Dhanashree D Jagtap
- National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (Indian Council of Medical Research), Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - C Selvaa Kumar
- Bioinformatics Department, School of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, D.Y. Patil University, CBD Belapur, Navi Mumbai 400614, India
| | - Nafisa H Balasinor
- National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (Indian Council of Medical Research), Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - A M Babitha Rani
- ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Panch Marg, Yari Road, Versova, Andheri West, Mumbai 400061, India
| | - Deepak Agarwal
- ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Panch Marg, Yari Road, Versova, Andheri West, Mumbai 400061, India
| | - Neelam Saharan
- ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Panch Marg, Yari Road, Versova, Andheri West, Mumbai 400061, India.
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40
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Pande HO, Tesfaye D, Hoelker M, Gebremedhn S, Held E, Neuhoff C, Tholen E, Schellander K, Wondim DS. MicroRNA-424/503 cluster members regulate bovine granulosa cell proliferation and cell cycle progression by targeting SMAD7 gene through activin signalling pathway. J Ovarian Res 2018; 11:34. [PMID: 29716627 PMCID: PMC5930509 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-018-0410-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The granulosa cells are indispensable for follicular development and its function is orchestrated by several genes, which in turn posttranscriptionally regulated by microRNAs (miRNA). In our previous study, the miRRNA-424/503 cluster was found to be highly abundant in bovine granulosa cells (bGCs) of preovulatory dominant follicle compared to subordinate counterpart at day 19 of the bovine estrous cycle. Other study also indicated the involvement of miR-424/503 cluster in tumour cell resistance to apoptosis suggesting this miRNA cluster may involve in cell survival. However, the role of miR-424/503 cluster in granulosa cell function remains elusive Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the role of miRNA-424/503 cluster in bGCs function using microRNA gain- and loss-of-function approaches. RESULTS The role of miR-424/503 cluster members in granulosa cell function was investigated by overexpressing or inhibiting its activity in vitro cultured granulosa cells using miR-424/503 mimic or inhibitor, respectively. Luciferase reporter assay showed that SMAD7 and ACVR2A are the direct targets of the miRNA-424/503 cluster members. In line with this, overexpression of miRNA-424/503 cluster members using its mimic and inhibition of its activity by its inhibitor reduced and increased, respectively the expression of SMAD7 and ACVR2A. Furthermore, flow cytometric analysis indicated that overexpression of miRNA-424/503 cluster members enhanced bGCs proliferation by promoting G1- to S- phase cell cycle transition. Modulation of miRNA-424/503 cluster members tended to increase phosphorylation of SMAD2/3 in the Activin signalling pathway. Moreover, sequence specific knockdown of SMAD7, the target gene of miRNA-424/503 cluster members, using small interfering RNA also revealed similar phenotypic and molecular alterations observed when miRNA-424/503 cluster members were overexpressed. Similarly, to get more insight about the role of miRNA-424/503 cluster members in activin signalling pathway, granulosa cells were treated with activin A. Activin A treatment increased cell proliferation and downregulation of both miRNA-424/503 members and its target gene, indicated the presence of negative feedback loop between activin A and the expression of miRNA-424/503. CONCLUSION This study suggests that the miRNA-424/503 cluster members are involved in regulating bovine granulosa cell proliferation and cell cycle progression. Further, miRNA-424/503 cluster members target the SMAD7 and ACVR2A genes which are involved in the activin signalling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hari Om Pande
- Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, Institute of Animal Science, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115, Bonn, Germany
| | - Dawit Tesfaye
- Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, Institute of Animal Science, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115, Bonn, Germany.,Center of Integrated Dairy Research, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Michael Hoelker
- Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, Institute of Animal Science, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115, Bonn, Germany.,Teaching and Research Station Frankenforst, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Bonn, Königswinter, Germany.,Center of Integrated Dairy Research, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Samuel Gebremedhn
- Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, Institute of Animal Science, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115, Bonn, Germany
| | - Eva Held
- Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, Institute of Animal Science, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115, Bonn, Germany.,Teaching and Research Station Frankenforst, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Bonn, Königswinter, Germany
| | - Christiane Neuhoff
- Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, Institute of Animal Science, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115, Bonn, Germany
| | - Ernst Tholen
- Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, Institute of Animal Science, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115, Bonn, Germany
| | - Karl Schellander
- Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, Institute of Animal Science, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115, Bonn, Germany.,Center of Integrated Dairy Research, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Dessie Salilew Wondim
- Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, Institute of Animal Science, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115, Bonn, Germany.
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Gonadotropin concentrations associated with variations in diameter deviation during follicle selection in Holstein heifers. Anim Reprod Sci 2018; 192:271-279. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2018.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Revised: 03/15/2018] [Accepted: 03/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Regan SLP, Knight PG, Yovich JL, Leung Y, Arfuso F, Dharmarajan A. Involvement of Bone Morphogenetic Proteins (BMP) in the Regulation of Ovarian Function. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2018; 107:227-261. [PMID: 29544632 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2018.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Primordial germ cells migrate to the fetal gonads and proliferate during gestation to generate a fixed complement of primordial follicles, the so-called ovarian reserve. Primordial follicles comprise an oocyte arrested at the diplotene stage of meiosis, surrounded by a layer of pregranulosa cells. Activation of primordial follicles to grow beyond this arrested stage is of particular interest because, once activated, they are subjected to regulatory mechanisms involved in growth, selection, maturation, and ultimately, ovulation or atresia. The vast majority of follicles succumb to atresia and are permanently lost from the quiescent or growing pool of follicles. The bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), together with other intraovarian growth factors, are intimately involved in regulation of follicle recruitment, dominant follicle selection, ovulation, and atresia. Activation of primordial follicles appears to be a continuous process, and the number of small antral follicles at the beginning of the menstrual cycle provides an indirect indication of ovarian reserve. Continued antral follicle development during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle is driven by follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) in conjunction with many intraovarian growth factors and inhibitors interrelated in a complex web of regulatory balance. The BMP signaling system has a major intraovarian role in many species, including the human, in the generation of transcription factors that influence proliferation, steroidogenesis, cell differentiation, and maturation prior to ovulation, as well as formation of corpora lutea after ovulation. At the anterior pituitary level, BMPs also contribute to the regulation of gonadotrophin production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheena L P Regan
- Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia.
| | - Phil G Knight
- School of Biological Sciences, Hopkins Building, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - John L Yovich
- Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; PIVET Medical Centre, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Yee Leung
- Western Australian Gynaecologic Cancer Service, King Edward Memorial Hospital for Women, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Frank Arfuso
- Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Arun Dharmarajan
- Stem Cell and Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
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Bennett-Toomey J, Stocco C. GATA Regulation and Function During the Ovarian Life Cycle. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2018; 107:193-225. [PMID: 29544631 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2018.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
GATA4 and GATA6 are the sole GATA factors expressed in the ovary during embryonic development and adulthood. Up today, GATA4 and GATA6 are the only transcription factors that have been conditionally deleted during ovarian development and at each major stage of follicle maturation. The evidence from these transgenic mice revealed that GATA4 and GATA6 are crucial for follicles assembly, granulosa cell differentiation, postnatal follicle growth, and luteinization. Thus, conditional knockdown of both factors in the granulosa cells at any stage of development leads to female infertility. GATA targets impacting female reproduction include genes involved in steroidogenesis, hormone signaling, ovarian hormones, extracellular matrix organization, and apoptosis/cell division.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carlos Stocco
- College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States.
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Kamalludin MH, Garcia-Guerra A, Wiltbank MC, Kirkpatrick BW. Proteomic analysis of follicular fluid in carriers and non-carriers of the Trio allele for high ovulation rate in cattle. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 30:1643-1650. [DOI: 10.1071/rd17252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Accepted: 05/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was conducted to characterise differences in follicular fluid proteins between carriers and non-carriers of a bovine allele for high ovulation rate. A total of four non-carrier and five carrier females were used in an initial study with four and six additional non-carriers and carriers respectively used in a validation study. Emergence of the follicular wave was synchronised and the ovaries containing the dominant follicle(s) were extracted by ovariectomy for follicular fluid collection. A hexapeptide ligand library was used to overcome the masking effect of high-abundance proteins and to increase detection of low-abundance proteins in tandem mass spectrometry. After correcting for multiple comparisons, only two proteins, glia-derived nexin precursor (SERPINE2) and inhibin β B chain precursor (INHBB), were significantly differentially expressed (false-discovery rate <0.05). In a replicate study of analogous design differential expression was confirmed (P < 0.05). Joint analysis of results from the two studies indicated that three additional proteins were consistently differentially expressed between genotypes. For three of these five, previous studies have indicated that expression is increased by transforming growth factor-β–bone morphogenetic protein signalling; their reduction in follicular fluid from carrier animals is consistent with the ~9-fold overexpression of SMAD family member 6 (SMAD6) in carriers that is inhibitory to this pathway.
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Dai Y, Ivell R, Anand-Ivell R. Theca Cell INSL3 and Steroids Together Orchestrate the Growing Bovine Antral Follicle. Front Physiol 2017; 8:1033. [PMID: 29311967 PMCID: PMC5732917 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.01033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3) and its specific receptor RXFP2 are both expressed by theca interna cells of the growing antral follicle where they form an essential regulatory element in the production of the steroid precursor androstenedione. Using primary cultures of bovine theca cells from the mid follicular phase together with steroid agonists and antagonists we have examined how ovarian steroids modulate INSL3 expression. Transcript analysis shows that these cells express estrogen receptors α and β, androgen and progesterone receptors, besides the orphan nuclear receptors SF1 and nur77. Whereas, exogenous androgens have little or no effect, the androgen antagonist bicalutamide stimulates INSL3 production. In contrast, estrogen receptor agonists, as also progesterone, are stimulatory. Importantly, estrogen receptor signaling is convergent with the protein kinase A signaling pathway activated by LH, such that the estrogen receptor antagonist can inhibit the mild stimulatory effect of LH, and vice versa the PKA antagonist H89 blocks stimulation by estradiol. A significant finding is that the major steroid metabolite androstenedione appears to act predominantly as an estrogen and not an androgen in this system. Transfection of INSL3 gene promoter-reporter constructs together with various steroid receptor expression plasmids supports these findings and shows that steroid action uses non-classical pathways not requiring canonical steroid-responsive elements in the proximal promoter region. Together, the results indicate that increasing estrogens in the follicular phase stimulate a feedforward loop driving INSL3 signaling and thereby promoting steroidogenesis in the growing antral follicle until the LH surge which effectively switches off INSL3 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanzhenzi Dai
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Ivell
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom.,School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom.,School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Effects of silencing INHα gene by RNAi on the mRNA expressions of StAR, FST, INHβB, and FSHR genes in cultured sheep granulosa cells. Small Rumin Res 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2017.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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47
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Stocco C, Baumgarten SC, Armouti M, Fierro MA, Winston NJ, Scoccia B, Zamah AM. Genome-wide interactions between FSH and insulin-like growth factors in the regulation of human granulosa cell differentiation. Hum Reprod 2017; 32:905-914. [PMID: 28158425 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2016] [Accepted: 01/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Study question Is the genome-wide response of human cumulus cells to FSH and insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) comparable to the response observed in undifferentiated granulosa cells (GCs)? Summary answer FSH actions in human cumulus cells mimic those observed in preantral undifferentiated GCs from laboratory animals, and approximately half of the regulated genes are dependent on the simultaneous activation of the IGF1 receptor (IGF1R). What is known already Animal studies have shown that FSH and the IGFs system are required for follicle growth and maturation. In humans, IGF levels in the follicular fluid correlate with patients' responses to IVF protocols. The main targets of FSH and IGFs in the ovary are the GCs; however, the genomic mechanisms involved in the response of GCs to these hormones are unknown. Study design, size, duration Human cumulus cells isolated from IVF patients were cultured for 48 h in serum-free media in the presence of vehicle, FSH, IGF1R inhibitor or their combination. Participants/materials, setting, methods Discarded cumulus cells were donated to research by reproductive-aged women undergoing IVF due to non-ovarian etiologies of infertility at a university-affiliated clinic. The effect of FSH and/or IGF1R inhibition on cumulus cell function was evaluated using Affymetrix microarrays, quantitative PCR, western blot, promoter assays and hormone level measurements. Main results and the role of chance The findings demonstrate that human cumulus cells from IVF patients respond to FSH with the expression of genes known to be markers of the preantral to preovulatory differentiation of GCs. These results also demonstrate that ~50% of FSH-regulated genes require IGF1R activity and suggest that several aspects of follicle growth are coordinately regulated by FSH and IGFs in humans. This novel approach will allow for future mechanistic and molecular studies on the regulation of human follicle maturation. Large scale data Data set can be accessed at Gene Expression Omnibus number GSE86427. Limitations, reasons for caution Experiments were performed using primary human cumulus cells. This may not represent the response of intact follicles. Wider implications of the findings Understanding the mechanisms involved in the regulation of GC differentiation by FSH and IGF in humans will contribute to improving treatments for infertility. Study funding/competing interest(s) The project was financed by the National Instituted of Health grant number R56HD086054 and R01HD057110 (C.S.). The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish or preparation of the manuscript. We have no competing interests to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Stocco
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, The University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sarah C Baumgarten
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, The University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Marah Armouti
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, The University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Michelle A Fierro
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Nicola J Winston
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Bert Scoccia
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - A Musa Zamah
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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Ernst EH, Grøndahl ML, Grund S, Hardy K, Heuck A, Sunde L, Franks S, Andersen CY, Villesen P, Lykke-Hartmann K. Dormancy and activation of human oocytes from primordial and primary follicles: molecular clues to oocyte regulation. Hum Reprod 2017; 32:1684-1700. [PMID: 28854595 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 06/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do specific transcriptome dynamics in human oocytes from primordial and primary follicles identify novel pathways in oocyte activation? SUMMARY ANSWER The transcriptomic profiles in oocytes from primordial and primary follicles, respectively, revealed several new canonical pathways as putative mediators of oocyte dormancy and activation. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Cellular signaling pathways including PI3K/AKT and AKT/mTOR as well as TGF-β and IGF signaling are known to regulate the primordial-to-primary transition in mammalian follicle development. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We performed a class comparison study on human oocytes from primordial (n = 436) and primary (n = 182) follicles donated by three women having ovarian tissue cryopreserved before chemotherapy. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS RNA was extracted from oocytes from primordial and primary follicles isolated by Laser Capture Microdissection, and submitted to the HiSeq Illumina platform. Data mapping, quality control, filtering and expression analysis were performed using Tophat (2.0.4), Cufflinks (2.0.2), BWA (0.6.2) and software R. Modeling of complex biological systems was performed using the IPA® software. Finally, qPCR and immunohistochemistry were employed to explore expression and localization of selected genes and products in human ovarian tissue. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We found 223 and 268 genes down-regulated and up-regulated, respectively, in the oocytes during the human primordial-to-primary follicle transition (P < 0.05 and/or FPKM fold-change >2). IPA® enrichment analysis revealed known pathways ('mTOR Signaling', 'PI3K/AKT Signaling' and 'PTEN Signaling') as well as enriched canonical pathways not previously associated with human ovarian follicle development such as 'ErB Signaling' and 'NGF Signaling' in the down-regulated category and 'Regulation of eIF4 and P70S6K Signaling' and 'HER-2 Signaling in Breast Cancer' in the up-regulated group. Additionally, immunohistochemistry on human ovarian tissue explored the intraovarian localization of VASA, FOXO1 and eIF4E. LARGE SCALE DATA http://users-birc.au.dk/biopv/published_data/ernst_2017/. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This is a descriptive analysis and no functional studies were performed. The study was based on a limited number of patients and the experimental design could not take into account the natural biological variance in human samples. Therefore, qPCR was used to confirm selected genes alongside immunohistochemical stainings. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study shows, for the first time, a detailed molecular description of global gene transcription activities in oocytes from primordial and primary follicles, respectively. Knowing the global transcription profiles of human oocyte dormancy and activation are important in developing new clinical applications. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) E.H.E. was supported by Health Faculty, Aarhus University and Kong Christian Den Tiendes Fond. K.H. and S.F. were supported by an MRC (UK) project grant MR/M012638/1. K.L.H. was supported by grants from Fonden til Lægevidenskabens Fremme, Kong Christian Den Tiendes Fond. K.L.H. and L.S. were supported by the IDEAS grant from Aarhus University Research Foundation (AUFF). There are no conflicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- E H Ernst
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Wilhelm Meyers Allé 4, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - M L Grøndahl
- Fertility Clinic, Herlev Hospital, Herlev Ringvej 75, DK-2730 Herlev, Denmark
| | - S Grund
- Bioinformatics Research Centre (BiRC), Aarhus University, C.F.Møllers Allé 8, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - K Hardy
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - A Heuck
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Wilhelm Meyers Allé 4, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - L Sunde
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Wilhelm Meyers Allé 4, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Brendstrupgårdsvej 21, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - S Franks
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - C Y Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - P Villesen
- Bioinformatics Research Centre (BiRC), Aarhus University, C.F.Møllers Allé 8, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Wilhelm Meyers Allé 4, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - K Lykke-Hartmann
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Wilhelm Meyers Allé 4, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Brendstrupgårdsvej 21, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Wilhelm Meyers Allé 4, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
- Aarhus Institute of Advanced Studies, Aarhus University, Høegh-Guldbergs Gade 6B, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
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Zhang H, Taya K, Nagaoka K, Yoshida M, Watanabe G. Neonatal exposure to 17α-ethynyl estradiol (EE) disrupts follicle development and reproductive hormone profiles in female rats. Toxicol Lett 2017; 276:92-99. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2017.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2016] [Revised: 04/14/2017] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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Fung RSK, Bai J, Yuen KWY, Wong AOL. Activin/follistatin system in grass carp pituitary cells: - Regulation by local release of growth hormone and luteinizing hormone and its functional role in growth hormone synthesis and secretion. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0179789. [PMID: 28662143 PMCID: PMC5491050 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0179789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadotrophin regulation by activin/follistatin system is well-documented, but the corresponding effect on growth hormone (GH) has not been fully characterized and with little information available in lower vertebrates, especially in fish models. In grass carp, local interactions of GH and luteinizing hormone (LH) can induce GH release and gene expression at pituitary level via autocrine/paracrine mechanisms. To shed light on the role of activin/follistatin system in GH regulation by local actions of GH and LH, grass carp activin βA and βB were cloned, shown to be single-copy genes expressed in the pituitary, and confirmed to encode activin proteins capable of transactivating promoter with activin-responsive elements. In grass carp pituitary cells, activin A and B were effective in reducing GH secretion and GH cell content with concurrent drop in GH mRNA level whereas the opposite was true for follistatin, the activin-binding protein known to neutralize the effects of endogenous activin. Treatment with activin A and B not only could suppress basal but also inhibit GH mRNA expression induced by GH and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a functional analogue of LH in fish model. Apparently, down-regulation of GH mRNA by activin was mediated by reducing GH transcript stability with concurrent inhibition on GH promoter activity via the SMAD pathway. In reciprocal experiments, GH treatment was found to up-regulate activin βA, activin βB and follistatin mRNA levels in carp pituitary cells but the opposite was noted by removing endogenous GH with GH antiserum. Interestingly, parallel treatment with hCG could also inhibit basal as well as GH-induced activin βA, activin βB and follistatin gene expression. These results, as a whole, indicate that the pituitary activin/follistatin system can serve as a regulatory target for local interactions of GH and LH and contribute to GH regulation by autocrine/paracrine mechanisms in the carp pituitary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger S. K. Fung
- School of Biological Sciences, the University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jin Bai
- School of Biological Sciences, the University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Karen W. Y. Yuen
- School of Biological Sciences, the University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
| | - Anderson O. L. Wong
- School of Biological Sciences, the University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China
- * E-mail:
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