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Chumsri S, Suwimonteerabutr J, Sirisawadi S, Thongphakdee A, Holst BS, Chatdarong K. Serum anti-Müllerian hormone is an indirect predictor of ovarian reserve in domestic cats. Theriogenology 2024; 226:151-157. [PMID: 38901214 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.06.013] [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: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) serves as an indirect marker for predicting primordial follicles that are representative of ovarian reserve. In this study the possibility of using AMH and age to predict the ovarian reserve in domestic cats. Ovaries and blood were collected from 30 cats undergoing routine ovariohysterectomy. The animals were divided into three age groups: prepubertal (<4 mo, n = 10), adult (1-5 y, n = 10), and senior (>5 y, n = 10). Blood was collected at surgery for serum AMH measurements using the AMH Gen II ELISA kit. The intra-assay coefficient of variation (CV) and inter-assay CV were 3.56 % and 7.68 %, respectively. One side of the ovary was processed to determine AMH localization using immunohistochemistry and for a histological count of follicles, which is the gold standard. The expression of AMH protein was quantified from the contralateral ovary by Western blot analysis. Primordial follicles exhibited the most pronounced inverse relationship with age (rho = -0.779, P < 0.05), followed by a positive association with serum AMH concentration (rho = 0.490, P < 0.05), indicating that both age and AMH are potential markers indicative of primordial follicles. Furthermore, secondary (rho = 0.651, P < 0.05) and small antral follicles (rho = 0.648, P < 0.05) were identified as the major sources of circulating AMH, as indicated by the stronger correlation with serum AMH concentrations compared with primary follicles. However, there was no significant correlation between the expression of AMH protein and other factors, including age, primordial follicles, primary follicles, secondary follicles, small antral follicles, and serum AMH concentration. A model for predicting primordial follicle number using serum AMH concentration (AIC = 672.66, P < 0.05) and age (AIC = 668.93, P < 0.05) was established. In conclusion, both serum AMH concentration and age may serve as comparable markers of ovarian reserve in domestic cats. Moreover, AMH is particularly useful in situations where age information is not available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sittat Chumsri
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Junpen Suwimonteerabutr
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Sujin Sirisawadi
- Unit of Biochemistry, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Ampika Thongphakdee
- Conservation and Research Institute, Zoological Park Organization of Thailand Under the Royal Patronage of H.M. the King, Bangkok 10300, Thailand
| | - Bodil Ström Holst
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Swedish University of Agricultural Science, Uppsala 75007, Sweden
| | - Kaywalee Chatdarong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.
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Kaya S, Koral Taşcı S, Demir MC, Karadağ MA, Kumcu MS, Kaçar C, Ermutlu DG, Kuru M. Determination of anti-Müllerian hormone levels in blood and urine in fertile cats. Theriogenology 2024; 224:102-106. [PMID: 38761666 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.05.016] [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: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, blood anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels have been investigated in female animals to diagnose many conditions, such as the presence of ovarian tissue, follicle reserve, and granulosa cell tumors. Since blood collection is an invasive method, diagnosis with a non-invasive method is important in terms of practicality and animal welfare. This study aimed to investigate the presence of AMH in cat urine and determine whether a correlation exists between blood and urine AMH levels. In addition, it was aimed at revealing whether there was a change in blood and urine AMH levels according to ovarian follicle distribution. Twenty-seven healthy, fertile female cats in the follicular phase were included. Following blood and urine sample collection, a routine ovariohysterectomy was performed. Histological analysis of the removed ovarian tissue was used to determine ovarian follicle types. While both AMH and estrogen levels were determined in blood samples, only AMH levels were investigated in urine samples. Blood AMH levels averaged 10.61 ± 0.75 ng/mL (range: 5-16 ng/mL), while urine AMH levels averaged 5.67 ± 0.91 ng/mL (range: 0.2-13 ng/mL). While urinary AMH level was <1 ng/mL in 7 cats, urinary AMH was >1 ng/mL in all remaining cats. While the study demonstrated AMH excretion in urine, no correlation was found between blood and urine AMH values. However, a significant positive correlation was observed between blood AMH levels and serum estrogen levels (P < 0.001). These findings suggest that urinary AMH may be a product of proteolytic degradation, potentially leading to inaccurate estimations of ovarian activity based solely on urine AMH levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Semra Kaya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, Türkiye.
| | - Serap Koral Taşcı
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, Türkiye
| | - Murat Can Demir
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, Türkiye
| | - Muhammet Ali Karadağ
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, Türkiye
| | - Merve Sena Kumcu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, Türkiye
| | - Cihan Kaçar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, Türkiye
| | - Dilem Gülece Ermutlu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, Türkiye
| | - Mushap Kuru
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, Türkiye
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Santos LC, Silva JF. Molecular Factors Involved in the Reproductive Morphophysiology of Female Domestic Cat ( Felis catus). Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3153. [PMID: 37835759 PMCID: PMC10571923 DOI: 10.3390/ani13193153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The domestic cat (Felis catus) is considered an important model for the study of feline reproductive morphophysiology. However, although the morphological changes and clinical signs that occur during the estrous cycle and pregnancy are well known, little is known about the molecular mechanisms involved in the reproductive physiology of this animal species. Thus, this paper reviews the current knowledge about the modulation and expression profile of hormonal, immunological, redox, and growth mediators involved in the uterine, ovarian, and placental morphophysiology of domestic cats.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Juneo Freitas Silva
- Nucleo de Pesquisas em Reproducao e Endocrinologia, Centro de Microscopia Eletronica, Departamento de Ciencias Biologicas, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Campus Soane Nazare de Andrade, Ilheus 45662-900, Brazil;
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Serum antimüllerian hormone concentrations in female cats. Relation with ovarian remnant syndrome, ovarian cysts and gonadectomy status. Theriogenology 2023; 200:106-113. [PMID: 36805247 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.02.010] [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: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to reveal (1) the determination of the serum antimüllerian hormone concentrations in cats with ovarian remnant syndrome and ovarian cyst, (2) the effectiveness of the serum antimüllerian hormone concentrations in detecting gonadectomy status, and (3) ovarian expression of the antimüllerian hormone in the ovarian cysts and ovarian remnant tissue. For this purpose, a total of 31 domestic cats older than 1 year, including ORS (n = 9), OC (n = 3), spayed (n = 8), and intact (n = 11), were used in the study. Serum and intrafollicular AMH concentrations were determined by the electrochemiluminescence immunoassay, and expression of the AMH was determined by the immunohistochemical method. The serum AMH concentration in the ORS group was 1.49 ± 1.24 ng/ml (0.10-3.63 ng/ml) whereas it was 1.78 ± 0.92 ng/ml (0.8-2.63 ng/ml) in the OC group. AMH concentration in the intrafollicular fluid was determined as 0.023 ng/ml in a cat with an ovarian cyst. While the serum AMH concentration was below 0.01 ng/ml in spayed cats, it was 5.80 ± 3.30 ng/ml (1.88-11.86 ng/ml) in the intact cats. There was a significant difference between the spayed and intact groups in terms of serum AMH concentration (p < 0.05). Moreover, in cats with ovarian cyst and ovarian remnant syndrome, no difference was found between the groups in terms of serum AMH concentration (p > 0.05). No difference was found between the ovarian remnant syndrome and intact cats in terms of serum AMH concentration (p > 0.05). In immunohistochemical staining, ovarian cysts were found to be negative for AMH while a moderate (+2) AMH positivity was observed in other follicles. Furthermore, in cats with ovarian remnant syndrome, severe (+3) AMH positivity was observed. As a result, it was determined that gonadectomy status can be accurately diagnosed by the AMH measurement. Ovarian remnant syndrome cannot be diagnosed accurately by AMH measurement. In addition, it was found that AMH did not seem to play a role in the pathogenesis of ovarian cysts in cats.
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Nascimento AEDJ, Santos LC, Santos BR, Santos EO, Cunha MCDSG, Snoeck PPDN, de Lavor MSL, Silva JF. Estrogen and progesterone receptors and antioxidant enzymes are expressed differently in the uterus of domestic cats during the estrous cycle. Theriogenology 2023; 203:1-10. [PMID: 36947924 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.03.007] [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: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Sex steroids and antioxidant enzymes are important in female sexual development and adequate modulation of the estrous cycle, pregnancy, and fetal development. Therefore, modifications in its signaling or expression in the genital system are associated with reproductive dysfunctions. However, the spatial-temporal expression profile of receptors for sex steroids and antioxidant enzymes in the uterus of domestic cats throughout the estrous cycle needs to be studied. Cats in proestrus/estrus (N = 6), diestrus, (N = 7), and anestrus (N = 6) were used to evaluate the uterine expression of estrogen alpha (ERα), progesterone (PR), and androgen (AR) receptors and of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), catalase and glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1) by immunohistochemistry and qPCR. The uterus of cats in diestrus showed lower protein and mRNA expression of ERα and PR compared to proestrus/estrus and anestrus, mainly in the luminal and glandular epithelium and myometrium, different from catalase and SOD1, which showed higher expression in diestrus in relation to other phases of the cycle. GPX1, on the other hand, showed lower uterine gene expression in diestrus compared to proestrus/estrus and anestrus. No significant differences in AR expression were observed. In conclusion, ERα and PR sex steroid receptors and antioxidant enzymes are expressed differently in the uterus of domestic cats during the estrous cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Acácia Eduarda de Jesus Nascimento
- Centro de Microscopia Eletrônica, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Campus Soane Nazare de Andrade, 45662-900, Ilhéus, Brazil
| | - Luciano Cardoso Santos
- Centro de Microscopia Eletrônica, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Campus Soane Nazare de Andrade, 45662-900, Ilhéus, Brazil
| | - Bianca Reis Santos
- Centro de Microscopia Eletrônica, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Campus Soane Nazare de Andrade, 45662-900, Ilhéus, Brazil
| | - Emilly Oliveira Santos
- Centro de Microscopia Eletrônica, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Campus Soane Nazare de Andrade, 45662-900, Ilhéus, Brazil
| | - Maria Clara da Silva Galrão Cunha
- Centro de Microscopia Eletrônica, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Campus Soane Nazare de Andrade, 45662-900, Ilhéus, Brazil
| | - Paola Pereira das Neves Snoeck
- Hospital Veterinário, Departamento de Ciências Agrarias e Ambientais, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Campus Soane Nazare de Andrade, 45662-900, Ilhéus, Brazil
| | - Mário Sérgio Lima de Lavor
- Hospital Veterinário, Departamento de Ciências Agrarias e Ambientais, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Campus Soane Nazare de Andrade, 45662-900, Ilhéus, Brazil
| | - Juneo Freitas Silva
- Centro de Microscopia Eletrônica, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Campus Soane Nazare de Andrade, 45662-900, Ilhéus, Brazil.
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Astudillo I, Aspee K, Palomino J, Peralta OA, Parraguez VH, De los Reyes M. Meiotic Development of Canine Oocytes from Poly-Ovular and Mono-Ovular Follicles after In Vitro Maturation. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13040648. [PMID: 36830434 PMCID: PMC9951663 DOI: 10.3390/ani13040648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Poly-ovular follicles are defined as those with more than one oocyte present in single follicles. The occurrence frequency of this follicle type is higher in canines than that in other species. This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro meiotic maturation of dog oocytes from this follicle type in comparison to those from mono-ovular follicles of various sizes (small antral, medium antral, and large antral) considering different phases of the estrus cycle (anestrus, proestrus, estrus, and diestrus). Canine oocytes were obtained separately from the poly-ovular and mono-ovular antral follicles from the ovaries of adult females. In each experimental replicate, cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) from poly-ovular and mono-ovular follicles were incubated in supplemented TCM-199 at 38.5 °C and 5% CO2 for 72 h. After culturing, the meiotic development of each oocyte was evaluated using epifluorescence microscopy. Meiotic stages were classified into germinal vesicle (GV), germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD), first metaphase (MI), and second metaphase (MII). Data were evaluated using an analysis of variance. Oocytes from poly-ovular follicles at all phases exhibited a higher (p < 0.05) percentage of oocytes arrested at the GV stage than those from mono-ovular follicles, showing the highest rate of GV in small antral follicles during anestrus. In contrast, there were no differences in MII rates (p < 0.05) in oocytes from mono-ovular and poly-ovular follicles during the estrus and diestrus phases in all sizes evaluated, with the highest MII rate in estrus. These results suggest that oocytes from poly-ovular follicles can resume meiosis at a slower rate than those from mono-ovular follicles; however, the maturation in vitro of such oocytes is possible. Furthermore, the relationship between the maturation capacity of oocytes from both poly-ovular and mono-ovular follicles depends on the ovarian cycle and follicular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Astudillo
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago 8820000, Chile
| | - Karla Aspee
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago 8820000, Chile
| | - Jaime Palomino
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Bernardo O’Higgins University, Santiago 8320000, Chile
| | - Oscar A. Peralta
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago 8820000, Chile
| | - Victor H. Parraguez
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago 8820000, Chile
| | - Monica De los Reyes
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago 8820000, Chile
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +56-2-29785534
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Ochota M, Kulus MJ, Młodawska W, Kardasz-Kamocka M, Haczkiewicz-Leśniak K, Podchorska-Okołów M, Niżański W. Ultrastructural changes in feline oocytes during ovary storage for 24- and 48-hours. Theriogenology 2023; 197:101-110. [PMID: 36481579 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.11.025] [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: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Despite established microscopic markers of feline oocyte quality, little is known about their ultrastructural traits. To the best of our knowledge, there is no published report analysing the effect of 24 and 48 h ovarian storage time on the domestic cat oocytes characteristics at the ultrastructural level. Oocytes (n = 30) were classified using the light microscopy as good or bad quality and then proceeded for TEM observations. The location, shape, size and distribution of each organelle was noted in each examined oocyte. In in good quality oocytes the cytoplasmic organelles were generally easier to identify, and furthermore its distribution pattern was more obvious to spot than in bad quality ones. Whereas bad quality oocytes were typically characterised by the lower visibility of the cellular structures and cytoplasmic architecture was less apparent and often arranged without a predictable pattern. In good quality oocytes obtained from fresh ovaries cytoplasmic vacuoles (CVs) occupied a significantly larger area (0,72 vs. 0.18 CVs/μm2, respectively) than in bad quality ones, whereas in bad quality and stored oocytes more cytoplasm was occupied by lipid droplets (LDs) than in fresh good oocytes (0,22 ± 0,09 vs. 0,09 ± 0,05 respectively). It can be concluded that ultrastructure changes in feline oocytes during 24 and 48 h ovarian storage cannot be assessed in light microscopy. The ultrastructure of oocytes was seriously disturbed after 48 h of ovary storage, despite being classified as good quality. However, further investigations utilizing more cells are necessary to confirm reported traits of ultrastructure changes in stored and non-stored oocytes of good and bad quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Ochota
- Department of Reproduction and Clinic of Farm Animals, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, 50-366, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Michał Jerzy Kulus
- Division of Ultrastructural Research, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Wiesława Młodawska
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Anatomy and Genomics, University of Agriculture in Krakow, 30-059, Kraków, Poland
| | - Marta Kardasz-Kamocka
- Department of Reproduction and Clinic of Farm Animals, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, 50-366, Wrocław, Poland
| | | | | | - Wojciech Niżański
- Department of Reproduction and Clinic of Farm Animals, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, 50-366, Wrocław, Poland.
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Valentini L, Zupa R, Pousis C, Cuko R, Corriero A. Proliferation and Apoptosis of Cat (Felis catus) Male Germ Cells during Breeding and Non-Breeding Seasons. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9080447. [PMID: 36006362 PMCID: PMC9414637 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9080447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Spermatogenesis is a complex process through which male gametes, spermatozoa, are produced starting from stem germ cells called spermatogonia. The existing information on cat spermatogenesis is limited and somewhat contradictory. In fact, although this species is considered a long-day breeder with a reproduction period starting when the day length increases and ending in late autumn, spermatogenesis and sperm production occur throughout the year. In order to assess whether cat spermatogenesis is modulated according to a season pattern, we analyzed testes taken from feral cats orchiectomized during reproductive (February–July) and non-reproductive (November and December) periods. The results of the analyses carried out in the present study showed that spermatogonial proliferation was more intense during the reproductive period and germ cell death via apoptosis (a programmed form of cell death) increased during the non-reproductive period. Our results confirm the hypothesis that cat spermatogenesis is seasonally modulated through changes of germ cell proliferation and apoptosis, according to a common paradigm of seasonally breeding species. Abstract The domestic cat (Felis catus) is a seasonal-breeding species whose reproductive period starts when the day length increases. Since the existing information on cat spermatogenesis is limited and somewhat contradictory, in the present study, germ cell proliferation and apoptosis in feral adult tomcats orchiectomized during reproductive (reproductive group, RG; February–July) and non-reproductive (non-reproductive group, NRG; November and December) seasons were compared. Cross-sections taken from the middle third of the left testis were chemically fixed and embedded in paraffin wax. Histological sections were processed for the immunohistochemical detection of proliferating germ cells (PCNA) and for the identification of apoptotic cells (TUNEL method). The percentage of PCNA-positive spermatogonia was higher in the RG than in the NRG. On the contrary, germ cell apoptosis was higher in the NRG than in the RG. Our results confirm that cat spermatogenesis is modulated on a seasonal basis and suggests that spermatogenesis control involves changes in germ cell proliferation and apoptosis according to a common paradigm of seasonally breeding species.
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Fibroblast growth factor-2 promotes in vitro activation of cat primordial follicles. ZYGOTE 2022; 30:730-734. [PMID: 35416145 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199421000964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluated the effect of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) on the morphology, primordial follicle activation and growth after in vitro culture of domestic cat ovarian tissue. Ovaries (n = 12) from prepubertal domestic cats were collected and fragmented. One fragment was fixed for histological analysis (fresh control). The remaining fragments were incubated in control medium alone or with 10, 50 or 100 ng/ml FGF-2 for 7 days. After in vitro culture, the following endpoints were analyzed: morphology, activation by counting primordial and developing follicles, and growth (follicle and oocyte diameters). Treatment with 100 ng/ml FGF-2 maintained (P > 0.05) the percentage of normal follicles similar to fresh control. Follicle survival was greater (P < 0.05) after culture in 100 ng/ml FGF-2 than in 50 ng/ml FGF-2. The percentage of primordial follicles decreased (P < 0.05) and the percentage of developing follicles increased (P < 0.05) in all treatments compared with fresh tissue. The proportion of developing follicles increased (P < 0.05) in tissues incubated with 100 ng/ml FGF-2 compared with control medium and other FGF-2 concentrations. Furthermore, culture in 10 or 100 ng/ml FGF-2 resulted in increased (P < 0.05) follicle and oocyte diameters compared with fresh tissues and MEM+. In conclusion, FGF-2 at 100 ng/ml maintains follicle survival and promotes the in vitro activation and growth of cat primordial follicles.
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Santos LC, Dos Anjos Cordeiro JM, Santana LDS, Barbosa EM, Santos BR, da Silva TQM, de Souza SS, Corrêa JMX, Lavor MSL, da Silva EB, Silva JF. Expression profile of the Kisspeptin/Kiss1r system and angiogenic and immunological mediators in the ovary of cyclic and pregnant cats. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2022; 78:106650. [PMID: 34399365 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2021.106650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The Kisspeptin/Kiss1r system has been studied in mammalian ovaries. However, there are still no studies on the modulation of this system and its relationship with angiogenic and immunological mediators in the ovary of domestic cats, especially during pregnancy. We evaluated the expression of Kisspeptin/Kiss1r and angiogenic and immunological mediators during folliculogenesis, luteogenesis and luteal regression of cyclic and pregnant cats. The ovary exhibited moderate to intense expression for Kiss1, VEGF, Flk-1, INFγ and MIF in oocytes and the follicular wall, while Kiss1r expression was low in granulosa cells. In these cells, there was also a greater expression of Kiss1, INFγ and MIF, mainly in secondary follicles, while tertiary and preovulatory follicles exhibited greater expression of VEGF and Flk-1 in this layer. In luteogenesis, Kiss1 immunostaining was higher in mature corpora lutea (MCL) of pregnant cats compared to vacuolated CL (VCL) and corpus albicans (CA). Pregnancy also increased the luteal gene expression of Kiss1 as well as Kiss1, Kiss1r, Flk-1, and MIF immunostaining in MCL, while reduced the area of VEGF expression in VCL and luteal mRNA expression of Mif when compared to non-pregnant animals. In addition, positive gene correlation between Kiss1r and Mif was observed in the CL. Kiss1, Kiss1r, Vegf and Mif expression were lower in the CA of cats in anestrus. These findings reveal that the expression of Kisspeptin/Kiss1r and angiogenic and immunological mediators, in the ovary of domestic cats, depend on the follicular and luteal stage, and the luteal expression of these mediators is influenced by pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciano Cardoso Santos
- Department of Biological Sciences, Centro de Microscopia Eletronica, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, 45662-900, Ilheus, Brazil
| | | | - Larissa da Silva Santana
- Department of Biological Sciences, Centro de Microscopia Eletronica, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, 45662-900, Ilheus, Brazil
| | - Erikles Macêdo Barbosa
- Department of Biological Sciences, Centro de Microscopia Eletronica, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, 45662-900, Ilheus, Brazil
| | - Bianca Reis Santos
- Department of Biological Sciences, Centro de Microscopia Eletronica, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, 45662-900, Ilheus, Brazil
| | - Thayná Queiroz Menezes da Silva
- Department of Biological Sciences, Centro de Microscopia Eletronica, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, 45662-900, Ilheus, Brazil
| | - Sophia Saraiva de Souza
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, Hospital Veterinario, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, 45662-900, Ilheus, Brazil
| | - Janaina Maria Xavier Corrêa
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, Hospital Veterinario, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, 45662-900, Ilheus, Brazil
| | - Mário Sergio Lima Lavor
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, Hospital Veterinario, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, 45662-900, Ilheus, Brazil
| | - Elisângela Barboza da Silva
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, Hospital Veterinario, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, 45662-900, Ilheus, Brazil
| | - Juneo Freitas Silva
- Department of Biological Sciences, Centro de Microscopia Eletronica, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, 45662-900, Ilheus, Brazil.
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11
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Andrews CJ, Potter MA, Yapura J, Thomas DG. Accelerometry and infrared thermography show potential for assessing ovarian activity in domestic cats (Felis catus). Theriogenology 2021; 179:237-244. [PMID: 34896746 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.12.005] [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: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Accurate and reliable monitoring of ovarian activity is challenging in many felids as current methods are either invasive or not amenable to real-time assessments. This 45-day study assessed whether accelerometry and infrared (IR) thermography can be used to address these limitations. Intact female domestic cats (n = 12) were given 0.088 mg kg-1 day-1 altrenogest (progestin) orally for 37 days to suppress follicular growth. On Day 40, cats were given 75 IU eCG im to induce follicular growth and 50 IU hCG im 80 h later to induce ovulation. Cats were ovariohysterectomised 30-31 h after the hCG treatment. Actical® accelerometers were fitted to the cats' collars and activity monitored continuously from the start of the altrenogest treatment until ovariohysterectomy. Infrared images of the perivulvar, perianal, and gluteal area were taken of each cat on Day 30 and daily from Days 36-45 of the study. Perivulvar temperature (PVT), PVT relative to gluteal temperatures (PVT-GT), and PVT relative to perianal temperature (PVT-PAT) were recorded for each image. Blood samples were collected on Days 0, 10, 30, and 40, immediately prior to the hCG treatment, and at the time of ovariohysterectomy. Serum oestradiol and progesterone concentrations indicated complete ovarian suppression by Day 30 and, together with morphological assessment of the ovaries, confirmed the induction of follicular growth and ovulation in all cats. Daily activity counts differed among cats (P < 0.001), so the daily activity counts of each cat were converted to a proportional change from the average daily activity count from Days 30-39 (defined as the 'proportional daily activity'). Proportional daily activity counts increased after the stimulation of follicular growth with eCG, with peak levels (2.03 ± 0.29-fold higher than pre-treatment levels; P = 0.006) occurring three days after the eCG treatment. The PVT-GT showed the greatest sensitivity to detect subtle changes in body temperature, increasing from early to late follicular growth (1.96 ± 0.33 °C increase from Day 41-43; P < 0.001) and decreasing after hCG-induced ovulation (1.24 ± 0.41 °C decrease from Day 43-45; P = 0.01). In conclusion, both accelerometry and IR thermography show potential as non-invasive, real-time methods for assessing ovarian activity in cats, but further research is required to determine if these methods could be used to monitor natural/non-stimulated oestrous cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Andrews
- Centre for Feline Nutrition, School of Agriculture and Environment, College of Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Murray A Potter
- Zoology and Ecology Group, School of Natural Sciences, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Jimena Yapura
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - David G Thomas
- Centre for Feline Nutrition, School of Agriculture and Environment, College of Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
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12
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Paulini F, Araujo MS, Silva LP, Lucci CM. Initial steps on mapping differentially expressed proteins in bovine preantral follicles and ovarian tissue: An approach using single-follicle MALDI-MS and mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) analysis. Reprod Domest Anim 2021; 57:19-32. [PMID: 34626135 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms regulating follicular development and ensuring primordial follicle activation remain undefined. To help elucidate these mechanisms, this proteomic study of bovine ovarian tissue identified the differential molecular profiles of preantral follicles together with the spatial distribution of the most abundant molecular components in the tissue. Isolated primordial, primary and secondary follicles were individually placed on a MALDI target plate for mass spectral acquisitions, with detection of different m/z ranges. Ovarian tissue was sectioned and analysed in the m/z 400-2,000 range. Results of the first analysis indicated a similarity pattern in the molecular protein profile among different follicular classes in the m/z ranges of 100-1000 and 25,000-200,000, but in the m/z ranges of 800-4000, 4000-20,000 and 15,000-70,000, primary and secondary follicles shared similar clustering profiles which were different from primordial follicles (p < .05). In the second analysis, it was possible to correlate some intense molecular components in the tissue from global mass spectrum with the ions detected in the first analysis. Molecular components at m/z 11,325 (±230) were also detected in primary and secondary follicles in the experiment with isolated follicles, in addition to ions at m/z 4,029 (±120), 13,799 (±70), 5,547 (±9), 15,313 (±200), 7,018 (±40) and 7,663 (±90) which were also intensely detected in primary and secondary follicles. The present proteomic approaches evaluated different mass ranges of preantral follicles in bovine ovarian tissue and also indicated the spatial distribution of the most abundant molecular components. This study hopes to pave the way for future research identifying and characterizing specific proteins involved in follicle activation in bovine follicles, in order to better understand folliculogenesis and potentially improve mammalian follicle culture systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Paulini
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Michelle Silva Araujo
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luciano Paulino Silva
- Laboratory of Nanobiotechnology (LNANO), Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Carolina Madeira Lucci
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
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13
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Comparison of Ovarian Morphology and Follicular Disturbances between Two Inbred Strains of Cotton Rats ( Sigmodon hispidus). Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061768. [PMID: 34204816 PMCID: PMC8231567 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Multi-oocyte follicles have been reported in several mammals, especially in rabbits and hamsters, although their significance remains unclear. The present study compared ovarian histology, focusing on folliculogenesis, between two inbred cotton rat strains maintained at Hokkaido Institute of Public Health and the University of Miyazaki. Abundant multi-oocyte follicles and double-nucleated oocytes were observed in the Hokkaido strain, whereas Miyazaki had fewer multi-oocyte follicles and lacked double-nucleated oocytes. These findings indicate that early folliculogenesis events such as oocyte nest breakdown and oocyte vitality, rather than proliferation and cell death in each oocyte, affect the unique ovarian phenotypes found in cotton rats, including multi-oocyte follicles or double-nucleated oocytes, and their differences between strains. Therefore, these results can clarify mammalian folliculogenesis and its abnormal processes. Abstract Most mammalian ovarian follicles contain only a single oocyte having a single nucleus. However, two or more oocytes and nuclei are observed within one follicle and one oocyte, respectively, in several species, including cotton rat (CR, Sigmodon hispidus). The present study compared ovarian histology, focusing on folliculogenesis, between two inbred CR strains, HIS/Hiph and HIS/Mz. At 4 weeks of age, ovarian sections from both the strains were analyzed histologically. Multi-oocyte follicles (MOFs) and double-nucleated oocytes (DNOs) were observed in all stages of developing follicles in HIS/Hiph, whereas HIS/Mz had MOFs up to secondary stages and lacked DNOs. The estimated total follicles in HIS/Mz were almost half that of HIS/Hiph, but interstitial cells were well developed in HIS/Mz. Furthermore, immunostaining revealed no clear strain differences in the appearance of oocytes positive for Ki67, PCNA, and p63 in MOF or DNOs; no cell death was observed in these oocytes. Ultrastructural analysis revealed more abundant mitochondrial clouds in oocytes of HIS/Hiph than HIS/Mz. Thus, we clarified the strain differences in the CR ovary. These findings indicate that early events during folliculogenesis affect the unique ovarian phenotypes found in CRs, including MOFs or DNOs, and their strain differences.
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Chaves MS, Azevedo HC, Luz VB, Ferreira-Silva JC, Barros I, Paiva SR, de Olivera Melo E, de Melo Magalhães Padilha D, de Figueirêdo Freitas VJ, Bartolomeu CC, Lemos Oliveira MA. Occurrence, morphology, and morphometry of follicles containing multiple oocytes in FecG E mutant Santa Inês ewes. Anim Reprod Sci 2021; 226:106690. [PMID: 33561808 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2021.106690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted to characterize the morphology and morphometry of follicles containing multiple oocytes (MOFs) and determine the association with the FecGE mutation in Santa Inês ewes. Based on the genotypes, 65 ewes were characterized as being homozygous wild-type (n = 25; FecG+/+), heterozygous mutant (n = 27, FecG+/E), and homozygous mutant (n = 13, FecGE/E). The variables evaluated were follicle developmental stage, number of oocytes per follicle, morphology, and morphometry of MOFs. The FecGE mutation did not affect the frequency of MOFs (P > 0.05) (3.0 % in FecG+/+; 3.3 % in FecG+/E; and 3.5 % in FecGE/E). The greater viability (P < 0.05) of MOFs was identified in transitory stage of the FecGE/E (95.0 %) and FecG+/E (90.9 %) when compared to the FecG+/+ genotype (73.3 %). Furthermore, the morphology of transitory follicles with two oocytes was the variable and when evaluated was the most reliable determinant for predicting which ewes had an FecGE mutation. In conclusion, the FecGE mutation did not affect the frequency of MOFs. The ewes with FecGE mutation had a greater frequency of morphologically normal MOFs in the transitory stage. Furthermore, the ewes with the FecGE mutation had a greater likelihood of having MOFs containing two morphologically normal oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maiana Silva Chaves
- Reproductive Biotechniques Laboratory, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Street Dom Manuel de Medeiros, s/n - Dois Irmãos, 52171-900, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Hymerson Costa Azevedo
- Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation - Embrapa Tabuleiros Costeiros (Embrapa Coastal Tablelands), Avenida Beira Mar, 3250 Jardins, 49025-040, Aracaju -SE, Brazil.
| | - Valesca Barreto Luz
- University Center Cesmac, Rodovia Divaldo Suruagy, S/N Quadra 4 Lote 4 - Praia do Francês, 57081-350, Marechal Deodoro, AL, Brazil
| | - José Carlos Ferreira-Silva
- Reproductive Biotechniques Laboratory, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Street Dom Manuel de Medeiros, s/n - Dois Irmãos, 52171-900, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Inácio Barros
- Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation-Embrapa National Dairy Cattle Research, Street Eugênio do Nascimento, 610 - Dom Bosco, 36038-330, Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil
| | - Samuel Rezende Paiva
- Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation-Embrapa/Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Parque Estação Biológica - PqEB s/nº Avenue W5 Norte, 02372, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Eduardo de Olivera Melo
- Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation-Embrapa/Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Parque Estação Biológica - PqEB s/nº Avenue W5 Norte, 02372, Brasília, DF, Brazil; Federal University of Tocantins, Avenue NS-15, Quadra 109, Norte, s/n - Plano Diretor Norte, 77001-090, Palmas, TO, Brazil
| | - Deborah de Melo Magalhães Padilha
- Postgraduate biotechnology, Potiguar University / Laureate International Universities, Avenue Senador Salgado Filho, 1610, Lagoa Nova, Natal, 59056-000, CE, Brazil
| | | | - Cláudio Coutinho Bartolomeu
- Reproductive Biotechniques Laboratory, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Street Dom Manuel de Medeiros, s/n - Dois Irmãos, 52171-900, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Marcos Antônio Lemos Oliveira
- Reproductive Biotechniques Laboratory, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Street Dom Manuel de Medeiros, s/n - Dois Irmãos, 52171-900, Recife, PE, Brazil
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15
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The antiandrogenic vinclozolin induces differentiation delay of germ cells and changes in energy metabolism in 3D cultures of fetal ovaries. Sci Rep 2020; 10:18036. [PMID: 33093579 PMCID: PMC7582921 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-75116-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Vinclozolin is a pesticide with antiandrogenic activity as an endocrine disruptor compound. Its effects upon the progression of primordial follicles were assessed in cultures of mouse fetal ovaries from the onset of meiotic differentiation of germ cells (13.5 days post coitum) and from both in vivo exposed mice and in vitro exposed ovaries. Exposure of ovaries to vinclozolin—at in vitro dosages ranging from 10 to 200 μM and in 3D ex vivo culture following in vivo exposure to 50 mg/kg bw/day—showed delays in meiocyte differentiation and in follicle growth, even at the lowest in vitro dose exposure. Immunofluorescent analysis showed the presence of the proteins MSY2 and NOBOX in the primary follicles but no difference in the level of protein signals or in the number of follicles in relation to treatment. However, assessing the cytological differentiation of germ cells by detecting the synaptonemal complex protein SYCP3, the exposure to vinclozolin delayed meiotic differentiation from both in vitro- and in vivo-exposed ovaries. These effects were concomitant with changes in the energy metabolism, detected as a relative increase of glycolytic metabolism in live-cell metabolic assays in exposed ovaries.
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16
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Murray PJ, Rogie M, Fraser N, Hoy J, Kempster S. Development of the Mata Hari Judas Queen ( Felis catus). Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10101843. [PMID: 33050456 PMCID: PMC7599923 DOI: 10.3390/ani10101843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cats (Felis catus) are significant predators of mammals, birds, frogs and reptiles and are implicated in mammal species extinctions in Australia. Current controls fail to eradicate entire populations allowing survivors to re-establish. The use of the Mata Hari Judas (MHJ) technique, i.e., inducing prolonged oestrus using hormone implants, can enhance the eradication of remnant animals and would greatly improve conservation efforts. The hypotheses tested were that hormone implants could induce prolonged oestrus in queens (adult female cats), and that prolonging oestrus would result in sustained attractiveness to toms (adult male cats). Queens (n = 14) were randomly allocated to five treatments including a control and four treatments using hormone implants. Queens were observed daily; alone and during indirect contact with a tom for 30 consecutive days. There were significant increases (p < 0.001) in oestrus duration (19 to 27 days) for entire and ovariohysterectomised queens given Compudose100™ implants (1/8 or 1/4 implant). This study shows that it is possible to induce and prolong oestrus in queens using Compudose100™ implants where these queens are attractive to toms. The MHJ queen is a new tool with the potential to enhance the detection and thus the control of feral cats in remnant populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J. Murray
- School of Sciences, Faculty of Health, Engineering and Sciences, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba QLD 4350, Australia
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland Gatton campus, Gatton QLD 4343, Australia;
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland Gatton campus, Gatton QLD 4343, Australia; (N.F.); (S.K.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Melanie Rogie
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland Gatton campus, Gatton QLD 4343, Australia;
| | - Natalie Fraser
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland Gatton campus, Gatton QLD 4343, Australia; (N.F.); (S.K.)
| | - Julia Hoy
- Hidden Vale Wildlife Centre, The University of Queensland, Grandchester QLD 4340, Australia;
| | - Samantha Kempster
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland Gatton campus, Gatton QLD 4343, Australia; (N.F.); (S.K.)
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17
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Islam MR, Ichii O, Nakamura T, Irie T, Masum MA, Hosotani M, Otani Y, Elewa YHA, Kon Y. Unique morphological characteristics in the ovary of cotton rat (Sigmodon hispidus). J Reprod Dev 2020; 66:529-538. [PMID: 32879182 PMCID: PMC7768171 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2020-061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cotton rats (Sigmodon hispidus, CRs) are commonly used as animal models in biomedical research. However, the reproductive characteristics and ovarian development in the CRs has not been widely investigated. We have previously shown that female CRs, in particular, show several unique phenotypes associated with the urogenital system, such as chronic kidney disease and pyometra. Our investigation revealed unique morphologies in CR ovaries, particularly in oocytes. Cotton rat ovaries at 6-8 weeks of age were obtained from the Hokkaido Institute of Public Health, and their sections analyzed by light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Although the general histology and folliculogenesis of CR ovaries were similar to those of other experimental rodents, multi-oocyte follicles (MOFs) and double nucleated oocytes (DNOs) were also observed. Although MOFs were found at all stages of follicular development, a greater frequency of MOFs was observed in the primary and secondary stages. However, DNOs tended to be frequently observed in primordial follicles. Almost all MOF oocytes and a few DNOs possessed a clear zona pellucida, expressed DEAD (Asp-Glu-Ala-Asp) box polypeptide 4 and Forkhead box protein 2, a representative marker of oocytes and follicular epithelial cells. Thus, our investigations revealed the unique phenotypes of the CR ovary. As MOFs and DNOs are occasionally observed in human patients with infertility, the CR would be a useful animal model to study for gaining a better understanding of folliculogenesis and oocytogenesis, as well as their abnormalities in humans and other animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Rashedul Islam
- Laboratory of Anatomy, Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Hokkaido 060-0818, Japan.,Department of Surgery and Theriogenology, Faculty of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh
| | - Osamu Ichii
- Laboratory of Anatomy, Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Hokkaido 060-0818, Japan.,Laboratory of Agrobiomedical Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Hokkaido University, Hokkaido 060-0818, Japan
| | - Teppei Nakamura
- Laboratory of Anatomy, Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Hokkaido 060-0818, Japan.,Section of Biological Safety Research, Chitose Laboratory, Japan Food Research Laboratories, Hokkaido 060-0818, Japan
| | - Takao Irie
- Medical Zoology Group, Dept. of Infectious Diseases, Hokkaido Institute of Public Health, Hokkaido 060-0818, Japan
| | - Md Abdul Masum
- Laboratory of Anatomy, Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Hokkaido 060-0818, Japan.,Department of Anatomy, Histology and Physiology, Faculty of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh
| | - Marina Hosotani
- Laboratory of Anatomy, School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University, Hokkaido 060-0818, Japan
| | - Yuki Otani
- Laboratory of Anatomy, Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Hokkaido 060-0818, Japan
| | - Yaser Hosny Ali Elewa
- Laboratory of Anatomy, Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Hokkaido 060-0818, Japan.,Department of Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Yasuhiro Kon
- Laboratory of Anatomy, Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Hokkaido 060-0818, Japan
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18
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Andrews CJ, Thomas DG, Welch MV, Yapura J, Potter MA. Monitoring ovarian function and detecting pregnancy in felids: A review. Theriogenology 2020; 157:245-253. [PMID: 32818882 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.06.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Reliable detection and monitoring of estrus and pregnancy is essential to the effective ex situ conservation of endangered felids. Here, we review the current methods used to detect estrus and pregnancy in felids and describe the advantages and limitations of each. A total of 194 felid-focused publications were reviewed. The methods used included behavioral assessments (61 publications across 24 species), hormone monitoring (124 studies across 28 species), fecal protein monitoring (two studies in cheetah), ultrasonography (31 publications across seven species), vaginal cytology (22 publications across nine species), and laparoscopy (70 publications across 19 species). Behavior-based assessments of reproductive state are often inconsistent and unreliable in felids; thus hormone measurement is the most frequently used method for monitoring estrous cycles (66% of studies). In non-domestic felids, non-invasive fecal- or urine-based hormone metabolite analyses are preferred to blood assessments (66% of endocrine-based publications). While the measurement of fecal estrogen and progestin metabolites are useful for the retrospective assessment of ovarian activity, their use for real-time detection of estrus is limited. Vaginal cytology, laparoscopy and ultrasonography provide an acute and immediate determination of reproductive state but usually require anesthesia or sedation, which can prevent ovulation and cause abortions; thus, their use for pregnancy diagnosis is limited. Fecal progesterone or prostaglandin F2α metabolites can be used to detect pregnancy in most felids (the exception being fecal progestins for Lynx spp.), but only during mid-to-late gestation. Urinary relaxin measurement is a promising method for earlier pregnancy diagnosis (30-40% duration of gestation) but is presently limited by poor assay sensitivity due to the lack of a feline-specific relaxin antibody. Elevated levels of fecal immunoglobulin J chain have been investigated as a tool to detect pregnancy in cheetah (>80% accuracy), but research is lacking on other species. We conclude that there is no single 'best method' for monitoring ovarian activity and detecting pregnancy in felids, and current best practice would involve a combination of existing methods. Non-invasive methods for detecting estrus and pregnancy in felids (e.g., accelerometry and infrared thermography) should also be considered to augment existing methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Andrews
- Animal Science Group, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - David G Thomas
- Animal Science Group, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Marcia V Welch
- Wildlife and Ecology Group, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Jimena Yapura
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
| | - Murray A Potter
- Wildlife and Ecology Group, School of Agriculture and Environment, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand.
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Viau P, Rodini DC, Sobral G, Martins GS, Morato RG, de Oliveira CA. Puberty and oestral cycle length in captive female jaguars Panthera onca. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2020; 8:coaa052. [PMID: 32577289 PMCID: PMC7296220 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coaa052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Habitat loss and fragmentation have been leading jaguars to constant conflicts with humans, and as a result, jaguar populations have been declining over the last decades. Captive breeding is often a tool for species conservation, and it is not different for jaguars. However, success is far from optimal due to the lack of basic knowledge about species' reproductive biology. In the present study, we assessed gonadal hormonal profiles of natural oestral cycles and puberty and compared our data to those of other wild felids. We collected faecal samples from two to seven times per week for 18 months from two adults and three pre-pubertal females. We defined baseline levels for progestins and oestrogens in order to estimate oestrous cycle length and age at puberty. We compared our data with 16 other species through generalized linear model, using weight and genus as two explanatory variables. Cycle length was 38.28 ± 2.52 days, ranging from 25 to 44 days, while sexual maturity was attained within 22 months. Due to our analysis of both hormonal and behavioural data, there is a variation between this research from other studies that employed only behavioural observations. Such difference may be caused by the absence of behavioural oestrous at the peri-pubertal period. When compared to wild felids of similar size, puberty and oestral cycle durations of the jaguar females fell within the same range. Our modelling showed that age at maturity was influenced mostly by size and only Leopardus partially explained the observed variation. Conversely, oestral cycle length did not differ among genera or size categories. Our study adds to the body literature in the reproductive endocrinology of wild felids, and because female gametes are more challenging to collect and preserve, a strong understanding on the female reproductive physiology is essential to assisted reproduction and wild population viability assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscila Viau
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87 Cidade Universitária Armando de Salles Oliveira, Butantã, 05508270, São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Débora Cattaruzzi Rodini
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87 Cidade Universitária Armando de Salles Oliveira, Butantã, 05508270, São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Gisela Sobral
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87 Cidade Universitária Armando de Salles Oliveira, Butantã, 05508270, São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Gabriela Siqueira Martins
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87 Cidade Universitária Armando de Salles Oliveira, Butantã, 05508270, São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Ronaldo Gonçalves Morato
- Centro Nacional de Pesquisa e Conservação de Mamíferos Carnívoros, Instituto Chico Mendes de Conservação da Biodiversidade, Estrada Municipal Hisaichi Takebayashi, 8600, Bairro da Usina, Atibaia, 12952011 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Claudio Alvarenga de Oliveira
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87 Cidade Universitária Armando de Salles Oliveira, Butantã, 05508270, São Paulo (SP), Brazil
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20
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Liman N, Ateş N. Abundances and localizations of Claudin-1 and Claudin-5 in the domestic cat (Felis catus) ovary during the estrous cycle. Anim Reprod Sci 2019; 212:106247. [PMID: 31864490 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2019.106247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Claudins (CLDNs) are major Ca2+-independent cell adhesion molecules functioning at tight junctions (TJ). The presence and localization of cell adhesion molecules are important for understanding the mechanisms associated with follicular and luteal development in the ovary. In this study, there was an examination of whether CLDN-1 and CLDN-5 are present in a cell- and stage-specific manner during follicular and luteal development in the domestic cat ovary using immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis. While results from immunoblot analyses revealed there were relatively similar abundances of CLDN-5 protein in three phases of the ovarian cycle, the abundance of CLDN-1 in the luteal phase was greater than those measured in the follicular and anestrous phases (P < 0.01). Results with immunohistochemistry indicate CLDN-1 and -5 are mainly localized in the cell nuclei and cytoplasm of all tissues of the cat ovary. In follicles, throughout the development from primordial to large antral follicles, CLDN-1 and -5 were present in oocytes, and the granulosa and theca cell layers. In follicles at all stages of atresia, there were cell-type and stage-specific protein distributions with immunostaining present in granulosa, thecal interstitial, and fibroblast-like cells. In corpora lutea, both small and large luteal cells stained positively for both claudins. In conclusion, the specific presence and localization patterns of CLDN-1 and -5 in the cat ovary is suggestive that these TJ proteins could have local functions in the regulation of most ovarian functions such as follicle development and atresia, ovulation, and corpus luteum formation and regression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narin Liman
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Erciyes University, 38090, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Nermin Ateş
- Republic of Turkey Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, 13700, Bitlis, Turkey
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Andrews CJ, Thomas DG, Yapura J, Potter MA. Reproductive biology of the 38 extant felid species: a review. Mamm Rev 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/mam.12145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J. Andrews
- Animal Science Group; School of Agriculture and Environment; Massey University; Private Bag 11-222 Palmerston North 4442 New Zealand
| | - David G. Thomas
- Animal Science Group; School of Agriculture and Environment; Massey University; Private Bag 11-222 Palmerston North 4442 New Zealand
| | - Jimena Yapura
- School of Veterinary Science; Massey University; Private Bag 11-222 Palmerston North 4442 New Zealand
| | - Murray A. Potter
- Wildlife and Ecology Group; School of Agriculture and Environment; Massey University; Private Bag 11-222 Palmerston North 4442 New Zealand
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Vercellini R, Gobello C, D'Francisco F, Olguín S, Arizmendi A, Rodríguez R, Arias DO, Blanco PG. Ultrasonographic evaluation of ovarian morphology and blood flow in prepubertal and pubertal cats. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 53 Suppl 3:74-78. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.13355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rosario Vercellini
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology; Faculty of Veterinary Sciences; National University of La Plata (FVS-NULP); La Plata Argentina
- Radiology Service; FVS-NULP; La Plata Argentina
- CONICET; La Plata Argentina
| | - Cristina Gobello
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology; Faculty of Veterinary Sciences; National University of La Plata (FVS-NULP); La Plata Argentina
- CONICET; La Plata Argentina
| | - Florencia D'Francisco
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology; Faculty of Veterinary Sciences; National University of La Plata (FVS-NULP); La Plata Argentina
- CONICET; La Plata Argentina
| | | | - Analía Arizmendi
- CONICET; La Plata Argentina
- Cardiology Service; FVS-NULP; La Plata Argentina
| | - Raúl Rodríguez
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology; Faculty of Veterinary Sciences; National University of La Plata (FVS-NULP); La Plata Argentina
- Radiology Service; FVS-NULP; La Plata Argentina
| | - Daniel Osvaldo Arias
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology; Faculty of Veterinary Sciences; National University of La Plata (FVS-NULP); La Plata Argentina
- Cardiology Service; FVS-NULP; La Plata Argentina
| | - Paula G. Blanco
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology; Faculty of Veterinary Sciences; National University of La Plata (FVS-NULP); La Plata Argentina
- CONICET; La Plata Argentina
- Cardiology Service; FVS-NULP; La Plata Argentina
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Piras AR, Burrai GP, Ariu F, Falchi L, Zedda MT, Pau S, Gadau SD, Antuofermo E, Bebbere D, Ledda S, Bogliolo L. Structure of preantral follicles, oxidative status and developmental competence of in vitro matured oocytes after ovary storage at 4 °C in the domestic cat model. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2018; 16:76. [PMID: 30097048 PMCID: PMC6087010 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-018-0395-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Storage conditions during transportation of explanted ovaries are a critical step in setting up fertility preservation protocols in both animal and human fields. Here, we evaluated the effects of ovary storage at 4 °C on the preservation of preantral follicles and oocytes retrieved from antral follicles using the domestic cat as model. METHODS Ovaries were harvested from fifty-five healthy domestic queens during ovariectomy and stored at 4 °C for 0 (control), 24, 48, 72 and 96 h. In Experiment 1, the effects of the storage period at 4 °C on the morphology, cytoskeleton (α/β tubulin) and DNA integrity (phosphorylation of histone H2AX) of preantral follicles were investigated. In Experiment 2, oocytes recovered from antral follicles were matured and fertilized in vitro to evaluate their meiotic and developmental competence. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione (GSH) and lipid peroxidation were measured in matured oocytes. RESULTS The results showed that: a) storage up to 24 h did not affect the morphology and the DNA integrity of preantral follicles; b) extended storage times caused progressive morphological abnormalities, disassembling of microtubules and DNA damage; c) storage up to 48 h did not influence in vitro meiotic maturation of oocytes nor cleavage after in vitro fertilization. However, only oocytes stored within the ovary for 24 h produced blastocysts in a percentage similar to control oocytes; d) GSH levels of in vitro matured oocytes did not change at any time during ovary storage; a progressive increase in ROS levels was detected from 48 h associated with elevated lipid peroxidation at 72 and 96 h of storage. CONCLUSIONS Storage of cat ovaries for up to 24 h caused minimal alteration of preantral follicles and oocytes. The extension of the storage period beyond 24 h progressively impaired the structure of follicles, and modified the oxidative status of in vitro matured oocytes and their developmental competence after in vitro fertilization. This information may help when setting up programs for fertility conservation, especially for wild feline species which die in geographic areas located far away from ARTs centers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Rita Piras
- 0000 0001 2097 9138grid.11450.31Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Pietro Burrai
- 0000 0001 2097 9138grid.11450.31Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Federica Ariu
- 0000 0001 2097 9138grid.11450.31Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Laura Falchi
- 0000 0001 2097 9138grid.11450.31Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Zedda
- 0000 0001 2097 9138grid.11450.31Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Salvatore Pau
- 0000 0001 2097 9138grid.11450.31Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Sergio Domenico Gadau
- 0000 0001 2097 9138grid.11450.31Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Antuofermo
- 0000 0001 2097 9138grid.11450.31Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Daniela Bebbere
- 0000 0001 2097 9138grid.11450.31Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Sergio Ledda
- 0000 0001 2097 9138grid.11450.31Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Luisa Bogliolo
- 0000 0001 2097 9138grid.11450.31Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100 Sassari, Italy
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Characterization of the ovarian preantral follicle populations and its correlation with age and nutritional status in Brazilian Northeastern donkeys (Equus assinus). Anim Reprod Sci 2017; 187:193-202. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2017.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2017] [Revised: 10/23/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Thuwanut P, Comizzoli P, Wildt DE, Keefer CL, Songsasen N. Stem cell factor promotes in vitro ovarian follicle development in the domestic cat by upregulating c-kit mRNA expression and stimulating the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/AKT pathway. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 29:1356-1368. [DOI: 10.1071/rd16071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present study we examined the effects of stem cell factor (SCF; 50 vs 100 ng mL–1) alone or in combination with epidermal growth factor (EGF; 100 ng mL–1) on: (1) the in vitro viability and growth of cat follicles within ovarian cortices; (2) phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation; and (3) c-kit and FSH receptor (FSHr) mRNA expression. At 100 ng mL–1, SCF increased (P ≤ 0.05) the percentage and size of secondary follicles after 14 days of in vitro culture and sustained AKT phosphorylation after 3 days incubation. EGF suppressed this beneficial effect and reduced (P ≤ 0.05) the percentage of structurally normal follicles and FSHr expression when combined with 100 ng mL–1 SCF. Expression of c-kit mRNA was higher (P ≤ 0.05) in the presence of 100 ng mL–1 SCF compared with fresh follicles and cohorts cultured under other conditions. A c-kit inhibitor suppressed follicle growth and reduced AKT phosphorylation. Collectively, the results demonstrate that SCF promotes cat follicle development by upregulating c-kit mRNA expression and AKT phosphorylation. EGF suppresses the stimulating effect of SCF, leading to downregulation of FSHr expression.
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Mehl NS, Srisuwatanasagul S, Swangchan-Uthai T, Sirivaidyapong S, Khalid M. GnRH-agonist implants suppress reproductive function and affects ovarian LHR and FSHR expression in prepubertal female cats. Theriogenology 2017; 87:250-258. [PMID: 27743690 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Revised: 08/31/2016] [Accepted: 09/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Effect of a GnRH-agonist (deslorelin) was studied on reproductive function and ovarian luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR) and follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) expression in prepubertal female cats that were either implanted with 4.7-mg deslorelin (implanted: n = 6) or not (controls: n = 18) or ovariohysterectomized at prepubertal age (prepubertal OVH: n = 6). Body weights, fecal estradiol, and sexual behavior of implanted and control cats were monitored for 48 weeks followed by collection of ovaries and uteri. Ovaries and uteri were collected from control cats at follicular, luteal, and inactive stage (n = 6/group) and from prepubertal OVH cats at prepubertal age. Ovaries and uteri were analyzed for anatomical/histological characteristics. Ovaries were also analyzed for LHR and FSHR expression. Statistical analysis showed higher (P ≤ 0.05) body weight in control than implanted cats only during 22nd to 26th weeks of the study. Estrus was observed in control cats only. Deslorelin reduced (P ≤ 0.05) ovarian weight and number of antral follicles but did not affect endometrial thickness and gland diameter. However, myometrial thickness of implanted cats was significantly lower than control cats at follicular and luteal stage. Ovarian LHR mRNA expression was lower (P ≤ 0.05) in implanted cats than control cats at follicular stage. FSHR mRNA and LHR protein expression did not differ among the three groups. FSHR protein expression was lower (P ≤ 0.05) in prepubertal OVH cats and was not affected by deslorelin. In conclusion, deslorelin suppresses reproductive function in prepubertal female cats for at least 48 weeks possibly through a change in the ovarian mRNA expression of LHR.
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Affiliation(s)
- N S Mehl
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology, and Reproduction, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - S Srisuwatanasagul
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - T Swangchan-Uthai
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology, and Reproduction, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - S Sirivaidyapong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology, and Reproduction, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - M Khalid
- Department of Production and Population Health, The Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom.
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Oliveira R, Silva C, Silva E, Gerez J, Santos M, Sarapião F, Sartori L, Bracarense A, Seneda M. Proliferative activity of multi-oocyte follicles in sheep ovaries. Small Rumin Res 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2016.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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28
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dos Santos FA, Pimentel MML, Teixeira ACG, Cosmo ÍC, Lima MA, de Brito PD, de Macedo MF, Bezerra MB. Follicular right shift: Xenografting queens' ovarian tissue into severe combined imunnodeficiency mice and its responses to exogenous gonadotropin. Theriogenology 2016; 86:1811-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.05.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2015] [Revised: 05/20/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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29
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Disrupting effect of androgens in postnatal female domestic cats. Anim Reprod Sci 2016; 171:65-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2016.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Revised: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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30
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Phillips TC, Wildt DE, Comizzoli P. Incidence of methylated histones H3K4 and H3K79 in cat germinal vesicles is regulated by specific nuclear factors at the acquisition of developmental competence during the folliculogenesis. J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:783-94. [PMID: 27059775 PMCID: PMC4889483 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0706-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to characterize the regulations of histone methylations, key epigenetic markers of oocyte competence, in germinal vesicle (GV) from different follicles (preantral, early, small, or large antral stage) using the domestic cat model. METHODS In Experiment 1, the incidence of H3K4me3 or H3K79me2 was determined in GVs from the diverse follicle stages directly or after exposure to (1) a methyltransferase inhibitor, (2) sonication to fracture the cytoplasmic membranes and wash away the cytoplasmic content, or (3) methyltransferase inhibitor followed by sonication. In Experiment 2, the presence and maintenance of nuclear methyltransferases SMYD3 and DOT1L (regulating H3K4me3 and H3K79me2, respectively) was characterized in separate GV stages before and after sonication. Functionality of GVs from the various follicle stages (with or without transient isolation from the cytoplasm) then was assessed in Experiment 3 by transfer into recipient competent oocytes. RESULTS The incidence of histones H3K4me3 and H3K79me2 within the GV were influenced by the cytoplasmic environment at all stages except at the transition to the early antral stage where nuclear regulating factors appeared to be mainly involved. The methyltransferase SMYD3 and DOT1L also appeared tightly bound to the nucleus at that transition. Interestingly, oocytes reconstructed with a GV isolated from the cytoplasm for a prolonged period had the capacity to form an embryo after fertilization which proved that communication between the donor GV and the host cytoplasm (likely including the regulation of epigenetic factors) could be restored. CONCLUSIONS Histone methylation apparently becomes regulated by specific nuclear factors at the acquisition of competence during the folliculogenesis and does not seem to be disrupted by prolonged isolation from the surrounding cytoplasm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tameka C Phillips
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, DC, 20008, USA
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA, 22630, USA
| | - David E Wildt
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, DC, 20008, USA
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA, 22630, USA
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, DC, 20008, USA.
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA, 22630, USA.
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Kaese M, Galuska CE, Simon P, Braun BC, Cabrera-Fuentes HA, Middendorff R, Wehrend A, Jewgenow K, Galuska SP. Polysialylation takes place in granulosa cells during apoptotic processes of atretic tertiary follicles. FEBS J 2015; 282:4595-606. [PMID: 26392163 DOI: 10.1111/febs.13519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2015] [Revised: 08/14/2015] [Accepted: 09/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In the neuronal system, polysialic acid (polySia) is known to be involved in several cellular processes such as the modulation of cell-cell interactions. This highly negatively-charged sugar moiety is mainly present as a post-translational modification of the neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM). More than 20 years ago, differently glycosylated forms of NCAM were detected in the ovaries. However, the exact isoform of NCAM, as well as its biological function, remained unknown. Our analysis revealed that granulosa cells of feline tertiary follicles express the polysialylated form of NCAM-140. Unexpectedly, polySia was only expressed in the granulosa layers of atretic follicles and not of healthy follicles. By contrast, only the un-polysialylated form of NCAM was present on the membrane of granulosa cells of healthy follicles. To study a possible cellular function of polySia in feline follicles, a primary granulosa cell culture model was used. Interestingly, loss of polySia leads to a significant inhibition of apoptosis, demonstrating that polySia is involved during atretic processes in granulosa cells. Thus, polySia might not only directly influence regeneration processes as shown, for example, in the neuronal system, but also apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Kaese
- Institute of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Christina E Galuska
- Institute of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Peter Simon
- Institute of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany.,Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Beate C Braun
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), Berlin, Germany
| | - Hector A Cabrera-Fuentes
- Institute of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany.,Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ralf Middendorff
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Axel Wehrend
- Clinic of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Andrology for Small and Large Animals, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Katarina Jewgenow
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), Berlin, Germany
| | - Sebastian P Galuska
- Institute of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
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Micheletti T, Brown JL, Walker SL, Cubas ZS, Furtado PV, Putman SB, de Moraes W, de Oliveira MJ, de Oliveira CA, Moreira N. The use of altrenogest to avoid hyperestrogenism after eCG-hCG ovulation induction in southern tigrina (Leopardus guttulus). Theriogenology 2015; 84:575-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2014] [Revised: 04/14/2015] [Accepted: 04/15/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Lee PC, Wildt DE, Comizzoli P. Nucleolar Translocation of Histone Deacetylase 2 Is Involved in Regulation of Transcriptional Silencing in the Cat Germinal Vesicle. Biol Reprod 2015; 93:33. [PMID: 26108793 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.129106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2015] [Accepted: 06/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) is a key transcriptional coregulator that is suspected to play a role during oogenesis. It is known that RNA transcription in the cat germinal vesicle (GV) stops during folliculogenesis at the late antral follicle stage and is unrelated to histone deacetylation or chromatin condensation. The objective of the present study was to determine if and how HDAC2 participates in transcription regulation in the cat GV. Spatiotemporal HDAC2 protein expression was examined by immunostaining oocytes from primary to large antral follicles. HDAC2 was detected in the majority of GVs within oocytes from early, small, and large antral follicles. At early and small antral stages, HDAC2 was found primarily in the GV's nucleoplasm. There then was a significant shift in HDAC2 localization into the nucleolus, mostly in oocytes from large antral follicles. Assessments revealed that transcription was active in oocytes that contained nucleoplasm-localized HDAC2, whereas nucleolar-bound HDAC2 was associated with loss of both global transcription and ribosomal RNA presence at all antral stages. When oocytes were exposed to the HDAC inhibitor valproic acid, results indicated that HDAC regulated transcriptional activity in the nucleoplasm, but not in the nucleolus. Collective results suggest that nucleolar translocation of HDAC2 is associated with transcriptional silencing in the GV, thereby likely contributing to an oocyte's acquisition of competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Chih Lee
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, District of Columbia, and Front Royal, Virginia
| | - David E Wildt
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, District of Columbia, and Front Royal, Virginia
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, District of Columbia, and Front Royal, Virginia
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Elliott GD, Lee PC, Paramore E, Van Vorst M, Comizzoli P. Resilience of oocyte germinal vesicles to microwave-assisted drying in the domestic cat model. Biopreserv Biobank 2015; 13:164-71. [PMID: 26035005 PMCID: PMC4559202 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2014.0078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability to compact and inject the cat germinal vesicle (GV) into a recipient cytoplast allows exploration of a new fertility preservation strategy that avoids whole oocyte freezing. The objective of the present study was to understand the impact of water loss and storage time on GV DNA integrity. Immature cat oocytes were exposed to 1.5 M trehalose for 10 min before microwave-assisted dehydration for 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, or 40 min. Oocytes then were rehydrated to assess chromatin configuration and the incidence of DNA fragmentation (TUNEL assay). The moisture content progressively decreased (p<0.05) from 1.7 to 0.1 gH2O/gDW over the first 30 min, but did not decrease further (p>0.05) after 40 min. Chromatin configuration was unaffected (p>0.05) over time. The percentage of GVs with DNA fragmentation was unaltered (p>0.05) from 0 to 30 min of treatment (range, 6.1%-12%), but increased (p<0.05) to 32.5% after 40 min. Next, the influence of storage at two different supra-zero temperatures after 30 min of drying was investigated. Oocyte-loaded, microwave-treated filters were individually sealed in Dri-Shield moisture barrier bags and stored at 4°C or ambient temperature for 0 to 8 weeks. Moisture contents gradually decreased (p<0.05) from 0.12 to 0.10 gH2O/gDW after 8 weeks of storage at 4°C or ambient temperature. The percentage of GVs with DNA fragmentation more than doubled (p<0.05) from 0 (14.3%) to 2 days (30.0%-33.0%), but remained stable (p>0.05) thereafter (1 through 4 weeks, 25.0%-35.0%). Collective results demonstrate the feasibility of using microwave processing to dehydrate the mammalian GV to a moisture content that is nonlethal and enables nonfrozen storage, an alternative approach for preserving the maternal genome at cool or ambient temperature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria D Elliott
- 1Department of Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Pei-Chih Lee
- 2Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Elisha Paramore
- 1Department of Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Matthew Van Vorst
- 1Department of Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- 2Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, District of Columbia
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La Rosa I. Bone Morphogenetic Proteins in Preimplantation Embryos. BONE MORPHOGENIC PROTEIN 2015; 99:223-48. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2015.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Cocchia N, Corteggio A, Altamura G, Tafuri S, Rea S, Rosapane I, Sica A, Landolfi F, Ciani F. The effects of superoxide dismutase addition to the transport medium on cumulus-oocyte complex apoptosis and IVF outcome in cats (Felis catus). Reprod Biol 2014; 15:56-64. [PMID: 25726378 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2014.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2013] [Revised: 08/10/2014] [Accepted: 10/04/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of superoxide dismutase (SOD) addition to the ovary transport medium (4°C, 3-72 h) on ovarian cell viability and apoptosis and in vitro embryo production (IVEP) in domestic cats. The ovaries collected from 76 mixed-breed domestic queens were randomly assigned to the control or SOD-treated groups and incubated for 3, 24, 48 or 72 h. The ovaries were then subjected to the following: (1) fixed in formalin to assess the incidence of apoptosis (fragmented DNA in situ detection kit), (2) stored at -196°C in liquid nitrogen to evaluate the expression of the pro-apoptotic Bax gene and the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 gene (RT-PCR), and (3) used to obtain the cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) in order to test the cell viability (carboxyfluorescein or trypan blue staining) and IVEP. The incidence of apoptosis appeared to be higher in the control compared with the SOD-treated ovaries. The ovarian expression of Bax was lower and the Bcl-2 expression was higher in the SOD-treated group compared with the control group. The presence of SOD in the transport medium increased the viability of COCs and IVEP compared with the control medium. In summary, the supplementation of the ovary transport medium with SOD reduced cellular apoptosis and enhanced COC survival and IVEP in domestic cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natascia Cocchia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions - University of Naples Federico II, Via F. Delpino n. 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - Annunziata Corteggio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions - University of Naples Federico II, Via F. Delpino n. 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - Gennaro Altamura
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions - University of Naples Federico II, Via F. Delpino n. 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - Simona Tafuri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions - University of Naples Federico II, Via F. Delpino n. 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - Silviana Rea
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions - University of Naples Federico II, Via F. Delpino n. 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - Isabella Rosapane
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions - University of Naples Federico II, Via F. Delpino n. 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Sica
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions - University of Naples Federico II, Via F. Delpino n. 1, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Ciani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions - University of Naples Federico II, Via F. Delpino n. 1, 80137 Naples, Italy.
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Effects of jacalin and follicle-stimulating hormone on in vitro goat primordial follicle activation, survival and gene expression. ZYGOTE 2014; 23:537-49. [DOI: 10.1017/s0967199414000173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
SummaryThis study aims to investigate the effects of jacalin and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) on activation and survival of goat primordial follicles, as well as on gene expression in cultured ovarian tissue. Ovarian fragments were cultured for 6 days in minimum essential medium (MEM) supplemented with jacalin (10, 25, 50 or 100 μg/ml – Experiment 1) or in MEM supplemented with jacalin (50 μg/ml), FSH (50 ng/ml) or both (Experiment 2). Non-cultured and cultured tissues were processed for histological and ultrastructural analysis. Cultured tissues from Experiment 2 were also stored to evaluate the expression of BMP-15, KL (Kit ligand), c-kit, GDF-9 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The results of Experiment 1 showed that, compared with tissue that was cultured in control medium, the presence of 50 μg/ml of jacalin increased both the percentages of developing follicles and viability. In Experiment 2, after 6 days, higher percentages of normal follicles were observed in tissue cultured in presence of FSH, jacalin or both, but no synergistic interaction between FSH and jacalin was observed. These substances had no significant effect on the levels of mRNA for BMP-15 and KL, but FSH increased significantly the levels of mRNA for PCNA and c-kit. On the other hand, jacalin reduced the levels of mRNA for GDF-9. In conclusion, jacalin and FSH are able to improve primordial follicle activation and survival after 6 days of culture. Furthermore, presence of FSH increases the expression of mRNA for PCNA and c-kit, but jacalin resulted in lower GDF-9 mRNA expression.
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Evaluation of serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in a Persian queen cat with bilateral cystic ovarian disease. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s00580-013-1822-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Albrizio M, Roscino MT, Trisolini C, Binetti F, Rizzo A, Sciorsci RL. The expression of leptin receptor in the ovary of the queen: leptin receptor expression in queen ovary. Res Vet Sci 2013; 95:629-31. [PMID: 23623353 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2013.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2012] [Revised: 02/11/2013] [Accepted: 03/30/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Leptin is a Ob gene product secreted mainly by adipose tissue. Several reports showed leptin production by other tissue including the ovary. The action of leptin is mediated upon binding to its receptor widely expressed in reproductive tissues in different species. In fact, there are growing evidences that leptin plays an important role in the modulation of reproductive functions. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate in the queen, the expression of leptin receptor during the functional ovarian cycle and pregnancy. We found that the ovaries of the queen express leptin receptor in all the examined phases. The highest leptin receptor expression was found in the luteal phase (pseudopregnancy, pregnancy) compared to other phases of the cycle (anestrus, proestrus, estrus). The variations in the expression of leptin receptor suggest a likely implication of leptin in the modulation of ovarian activity, in the examined species.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Albrizio
- Department of Emergency and Organs Transplantation (DETO)-Unit of Veterinary Clinics and Animal Productions, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Strada Prov.Le Per Casamassima Km 3, 70010 Valenzano, Bari, Italy
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41
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Trisolini C, Albrizio M, Roscino MT, Pantaleo M, Rizzo A, Sciorsci RL. Leptin and queen ovary: new insights about ovulation. Res Vet Sci 2012; 94:707-10. [PMID: 23261151 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2012.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2012] [Revised: 09/27/2012] [Accepted: 11/22/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Leptin has been proven to be crucial in the ovulatory process. Aims of this study are to assess the expression of leptin receptor (Ob-R) in the ovaries of queens at estrus and to evaluate the capability of leptin in modulating ovarian contractility in vitro. Right ovaries underwent immunoblot analysis. Left ovaries were mounted in an organ bath under physiological condition and exposed to murine leptin (10(-6) M). Immunoblot analysis showed that the queen ovary expresses leptin receptor at estrus. Leptin at the dose of 10(-6) M significantly reduced the contractile activity of the ovary. The presence of ovarian Ob-R and leptin inhibitory effects on ovarian contractility suggest leptin implication in the modulation of ovarian activity, as well as in ovulatory disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Trisolini
- Department of Emergency and Organs Transplantations, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Italy
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42
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Liman N, Alan E, Bayram GK, Gürbulak K. Expression of Survivin, Bcl-2 and Bax Proteins in the Domestic Cat (Felis catus) Endometrium During the Oestrus Cycle. Reprod Domest Anim 2012; 48:33-45. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2012.02021.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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IZUMI T, SAKAKIDA S, MURANISHI Y, NAGAI T. Allometric Study on the Relationship between the Growth of Ovarian Follicles and Oocytes in Domestic Cats. J Reprod Dev 2012; 58:484-9. [DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2012-030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tokukazu IZUMI
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Ishikawa Prefectural University, Ishikawa 921-8836, Japan
- Center for Fetal DNA Diagnosis from Maternal Blood, Kanazawa Medical University, Ishikawa 920-0293, Japan
| | - Seishi SAKAKIDA
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Ishikawa Prefectural University, Ishikawa 921-8836, Japan
| | - Yuki MURANISHI
- Department of Developmental Biology, Osaka Bioscience Institute, Osaka 565-0874, Japan
- Present: Unité Mixte de Recherche 1019, Unité de Nutrition Humaine, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Centre de Recherche de Clermont-Ferrand/Theix, 63122 Saint Genès Champanelle, France
| | - Takashi NAGAI
- NARO Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, Ibaraki 305-0901, Japan
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Malandain E, Rault D, Froment E, Baudon S, Desquilbet L, Begon D, Chastant-Maillard S. Follicular growth monitoring in the female cat during estrus. Theriogenology 2011; 76:1337-46. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2009] [Revised: 05/30/2011] [Accepted: 06/03/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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45
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Luvoni GC, Tessaro I, Apparício M, Ruggeri E, Luciano AM, Modina SC. Effect of vitrification of feline ovarian cortex on follicular and oocyte quality and competence. Reprod Domest Anim 2011; 47:385-91. [PMID: 21950518 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2011.01885.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Cryopreservation of ovarian cortex has important implications in the preservation of fertility and biodiversity in animal species. Slow freezing of cat ovarian tissue resulted in the preservation of follicular morphology and in the follicular development after xenografting. Vitrification has been recently applied to ovarian tissues of different species, but no information is available on the effect of this method on feline ovarian cortex. Moreover, meiotic competence of fully grown oocytes isolated from cryopreserved tissue has not been reported. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of vitrification of feline ovarian cortex on follicular morphology and oocyte integrity, as well as meiotic competence. A total of 352 fragments (1.5-2 mm(3) ) were obtained from ovarian cortical tissues: 176 were vitrified and 176 were used fresh as control. Histological evaluation of fresh and vitrified fragments showed intact follicles after cryopreservation procedures with no statistically significant destructive effect from primordial to antral follicles. After IVM, oocytes collected from vitrified ovarian fragment showed a higher proportion of gametes arrested at germinal vesicle (GV) stage compared to those isolated from fresh control tissue (33.8% vs 2.9%; p < 0.001). However, oocytes isolated from vitrified tissues were able to resume meiosis, albeit at lower rate than those collected from fresh tissues (39.8% vs 85.9%; p < 0.00001). Vitrification induced changes in the organization of cytoskeletal elements (actin microfilaments and microtubules) of oocytes, but significantly only for actin network (p < 0.001). Finally, chromatin configuration within the GV was not affected by the cryopreservation procedure. Our study demonstrated that vitrification preserves the integrity of ovarian follicles and that oocytes retrieved from cryopreserved tissue maintain the capability of resuming meiosis. To our knowledge, this has not previously been reported in the cat.
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Affiliation(s)
- G C Luvoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche Veterinarie - Sezione di Clinica Ostetrica e Ginecologica Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
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Levy JK, Friary JA, Miller LA, Tucker SJ, Fagerstone KA. Long-term fertility control in female cats with GonaCon™, a GnRH immunocontraceptive. Theriogenology 2011; 76:1517-25. [PMID: 21835455 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2011] [Revised: 06/13/2011] [Accepted: 06/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The uncontrolled reproduction of free-roaming feral cats contributes to overpopulation and associated concerns regarding their welfare and impact on public health and the environment. Nonsurgical fertility control that could be administered to feral cats in the field would be a powerful tool for cat population control. The objective was to test the efficacy and duration of activity of a single-dose GnRH immunocontraceptive vaccine (GonaCon™) on the fertility of adult female laboratory cats. Vaccinated cats (n = 15) received a single injection of vaccine containing a GnRH-KLH conjugate (200 μg) emulsified in a mycobacterial and oil adjuvant on study Day 0. Sham-treated cats (n = 5) received a single injection containing all vaccine components except the GnRH-KLH conjugate. A breeding trial started on study Day 120. Vaccinated cats had a longer time to conception (median 39.7 mo) compared to sham-treated cats (4.4 mo; P < 0.001). A total of 93% of vaccinated cats remained infertile for the first year following vaccination, whereas 73, 53, and 40% were infertile for 2, 3, and 4 y, respectively. At study termination (5 y after a single GnRH vaccine was administered), four cats (27%) remained infertile. The GnRH antibody titers declined more rapidly in short-term responding cats with < 2 y of infertility (n = 4), compared to long-term responding cats that experienced fertility control for >2 y (n = 11) (P < 0.05). Non-painful but persistent late-onset granulomatous injection site masses appeared 2 y after initial vaccination in five cats. We concluded that GnRH immunocontraception is an ideal candidate for further development for feral cat control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie K Levy
- Maddie's Shelter Medicine Program, Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA.
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47
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Comizzoli P, Pukazhenthi BS, Wildt DE. The competence of germinal vesicle oocytes is unrelated to nuclear chromatin configuration and strictly depends on cytoplasmic quantity and quality in the cat model. Hum Reprod 2011; 26:2165-77. [PMID: 21665874 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/der176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chromatin configuration of the germinal vesicle (GV) and quality of the cytoplasm are critical factors in achieving oocyte meiotic and developmental capacity during folliculogenesis. Besides gaining new insights into the timing and cellular mechanisms associated with the acquisition and regulation of GV oocyte competence, the domestic cat model was used to examine (i) the relation between GV chromatin configuration and oocyte functionality during folliculogenesis and (ii) the role of the cytoplasmic environment on the GV competence and stability. METHODS Structural and functional properties of GV oocytes were characterized after isolation from different follicle stages of non-stimulated cat ovaries. GV transfers, artificial chromatin compaction and oocyte vitrification were used to demonstrate the respective roles of GV and cytoplasm on the oocyte functionality. RESULTS GVs acquired the intrinsic capability to resume meiosis during the pre-antral follicle stage, whereas the capacity to support embryo development occurred while the antrum started to form. Chromatin configuration of the GV did not undergo extensive modification during the acquisition of competence or during the arrest of transcriptional activity at the large antral follicle stage. However, the quality and quantity of the cytoplasm regulated and enhanced GV functionality. This finding also held for GVs transferred from incompetent or subpar oocytes into the cytoplasm of good quality oocytes or when chromatin was artificially modified or vitrified. CONCLUSIONS The cat model provides a new insight into GV oocyte structure and function during folliculogenesis while challenging current concepts about oocyte quality criteria based on the GV morphology. This suggests alternative evaluative approaches for oocytes from other species too, including humans. Cat GVs also appear competent at an early follicle stage and are resilient to perturbations which designate this organelle as an attractive target for developing novel fertility preservation tactics.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Comizzoli
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC 20008, USA.
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48
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Lima G, Costa L, Cavalcanti D, Rodrigues C, Freire F, Fontenele-Neto J, Silva A. Short-term storage of canine preantral ovarian follicles using a powdered coconut water (ACP®)-based medium. Theriogenology 2010; 74:146-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2009] [Revised: 01/18/2010] [Accepted: 01/30/2010] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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49
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Uchikura K, Nagano M, Hishinuma M. Evaluation of Follicular Development and Oocyte Quality in Pre-pubertal Cats. Reprod Domest Anim 2010; 45:e405-11. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2010.01590.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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50
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ALM H, KUHLMANN S, LANGHAMMER M, TUCHSCHERER A, TORNER H, REINSCH N. Occurrence of Polyovular Follicles in Mouse Lines Selected for High Fecundity. J Reprod Dev 2010; 56:449-53. [DOI: 10.1262/jrd.09-224h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hannelore ALM
- Research Unit Reproductive Biology, FBN Research Institute for the Biology of Farm Animals
| | - Simone KUHLMANN
- Research Unit Reproductive Biology, FBN Research Institute for the Biology of Farm Animals
| | - Martina LANGHAMMER
- Research Unit Genetics and Biometry, FBN Research Institute for the Biology of Farm Animals
| | - Armin TUCHSCHERER
- Research Unit Genetics and Biometry, FBN Research Institute for the Biology of Farm Animals
| | - Helmut TORNER
- Research Unit Reproductive Biology, FBN Research Institute for the Biology of Farm Animals
| | - Norbert REINSCH
- Research Unit Genetics and Biometry, FBN Research Institute for the Biology of Farm Animals
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