1
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Martin JH, Bernstein IR, Lyons JM, Brady AR, Mabotuwana NS, Stanger SJ, De Oliveira CS, Damyanova KB, Nixon B, Lord T. EPAS1 expression contributes to maintenance of the primordial follicle pool in the mouse ovary. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8770. [PMID: 38627575 PMCID: PMC11021563 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59382-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Oxygen availability can have profound effects on cell fate decisions and survival, in part by regulating expression of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs). In the ovary, HIF expression has been characterised in granulosa cells, however, any requirement in oocytes remains relatively undefined. Here we developed a Hif2a/Epas1 germline-specific knockout mouse line in which females were fertile, however produced 40% fewer pups than controls. No defects in follicle development were detected, and quality of MII oocytes was normal, as per assessments of viability, intracellular reactive oxygen species, and spindle parameters. However, a significant diminishment of the primordial follicle pool was evident in cKO females that was attributed to accelerated follicle loss from postnatal day 6 onwards, potentially via disruption of the autophagy pathway. These data demonstrate the importance of HIF signalling in oocytes, particularly at the primordial follicle stage, and lend to the importance of controlling oxygen tension in the development of in vitro growth and maturation approaches for assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacinta H Martin
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, Infertility and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Ilana R Bernstein
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Jess M Lyons
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Ariel R Brady
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Nishani S Mabotuwana
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Simone J Stanger
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Camila Salum De Oliveira
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Katerina B Damyanova
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, Infertility and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Tessa Lord
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, Infertility and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia.
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2
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Schofield LG, Kahl RGS, Rodrigues SL, Fisher JJ, Endacott SK, Delforce SJ, Lumbers ER, Martin JH, Pringle KG. Placental deficiency of the (pro)renin receptor ((P)RR) reduces placental development and functional capacity. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1212898. [PMID: 37588662 PMCID: PMC10427116 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1212898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The (pro)renin receptor ((P)RR; also known as ATP6AP2) is a multifunctional receptor. The (P)RR activates the tissue renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and is also involved in regulating integral intracellular pathways such as V-ATPase and Wnt/β-catenin signalling. Given this, the (P)RR may be associated with essential pathways in placentation, however its role within the context of pregnancy remains poorly characterised. The first trimester/extravillous trophoblast cell line, HTR-8/SVneo, underwent an siRNA knockdown where they were incubated for 24 h with a negative control siRNA or siRNA targeting ATP6AP2 mRNA. xCELLigence real-time cell analysis was performed to assess the effect of ATP6AP2 mRNA knockdown on HTR-8/SVneo cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. In subsequent experiments, GFP-encoding lentiviral packaged gene-constructs were used to knockdown (P)RR expression in the trophectoderm of C57/BL6/CBA-F1 mouse blastocysts. Blastocysts were incubated for 6 h with vehicle (no-virus), control virus (non-targeting shRNA and GFP), or (P)RR-knockdown virus ((P)RR shRNA and GFP) before transfer into recipient pseudo-pregnant Swiss CD1 female mice. Fetal and placental tissues were collected and assessed at embryonic age (EA) 10 and 18. (P)RR levels were measured in the labyrinth zone of day 18 placentae and stereological Merz grid analysis was performed to determine the volumetric distribution of trophoblasts, fetal capillaries, and the maternal blood space. We showed that a reduction of ATP6AP2 expression in HTR-8/SVneo cells in vitro, impaired trophoblast proliferation, migration, and invasion. In vivo, decreasing placental labyrinth (P)RR expression adversely effected placental physiology, decreasing placental trophoblast number and total surface area available for exchange, while also increasing maternal blood space. Additionally, decreased (P)RR affected placental efficacy evident by the reduced fetal-placental weight ratio. Our study shows that the (P)RR is necessary for appropriate placental development and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lachlan G. Schofield
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Richard G. S. Kahl
- Mothers and Babies Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Samantha L. Rodrigues
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Joshua J. Fisher
- Mothers and Babies Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Saije K. Endacott
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Sarah J. Delforce
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Eugenie R. Lumbers
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Jacinta H. Martin
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Kirsty G. Pringle
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
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3
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Martin JH, Nixon B, Cafe SL, Aitken RJ, Bromfield EG, Lord T. OXIDATIVE STRESS AND REPRODUCTIVE FUNCTION: Oxidative stress and in vitro ageing of the post-ovulatory oocyte: an update on recent advances in the field. Reproduction 2022; 164:F109-F124. [PMID: 36190194 DOI: 10.1530/rep-22-0206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
In brief Post-ovulatory ageing of oocytes leads to poor oocyte and embryo quality as well as abnormalities in offspring. This review provides an update on the contributions of oxidative stress to this process and discusses the current literature surrounding the use of antioxidant media to delay post-ovulatory oocyte ageing. Abstract Following ovulation, the metaphase II stage oocyte has a limited functional lifespan before succumbing to a process known as post-ovulatory oocyte ageing. This progressive demise occurs both in vivo and in vitro and is accompanied by a deterioration in oocyte quality, leading to a well-defined sequelae of reduced fertilisation rates, poor embryo quality, post-implantation errors, and abnormalities in the offspring. Although the physiological consequences of post-ovulatory oocyte ageing have largely been characterised, less is known regarding the molecular mechanisms that drive this process. This review presents an update on the established relationships between the biochemical changes exhibited by the ageing oocyte and the myriad of symptoms associated with the ageing phenotype. In doing so, we consider the molecular events that are potentially involved in orchestrating post-ovulatory ageing with a particular focus on the role of oxidative stress. We highlight the mounting evidence that oxidative stress acts as an initiator for a cascade of events that create the aged oocyte phenotype. Specifically, oxidative stress has the capacity to disrupt mitochondrial function and directly damage multiple intracellular components of the oocyte such as lipids, proteins, and DNA. Finally, this review addresses emerging strategies for delaying post-ovulatory oocyte ageing with emphasis placed on the promise afforded by the use of selected antioxidants to guide the development of media tailored for the preservation of oocyte integrity during in vitro fertilisation procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacinta H Martin
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute Program in Infertility and Reproduction, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute Program in Infertility and Reproduction, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Shenae L Cafe
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute Program in Infertility and Reproduction, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - R John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute Program in Infertility and Reproduction, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Elizabeth G Bromfield
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute Program in Infertility and Reproduction, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tessa Lord
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute Program in Infertility and Reproduction, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
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4
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Pailas A, Niaka K, Zorzompokou C, Marangos P. The DNA Damage Response in Fully Grown Mammalian Oocytes. Cells 2022; 11:cells11050798. [PMID: 35269420 PMCID: PMC8909749 DOI: 10.3390/cells11050798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA damage in cells can occur physiologically or may be induced by exogenous factors. Genotoxic damage may cause cancer, ageing, serious developmental diseases and anomalies. If the damage occurs in the germline, it can potentially lead to infertility or chromosomal and genetic aberrations in the developing embryo. Mammalian oocytes, the female germ cells, are produced before birth, remaining arrested at the prophase stage of meiosis over a long period of time. During this extensive state of arrest the oocyte may be exposed to different DNA-damaging insults for months, years or even decades. Therefore, it is of great importance to understand how these cells respond to DNA damage. In this review, we summarize the most recent developments in the understanding of the DNA damage response mechanisms that function in fully grown mammalian oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandros Pailas
- Department of Biological Applications and Technology, School of Health Sciences, Institute of Biosciences, University Research Centre, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Konstantina Niaka
- Department of Biological Applications and Technology, School of Health Sciences, Institute of Biosciences, University Research Centre, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Chrysoula Zorzompokou
- Department of Biological Applications and Technology, School of Health Sciences, Institute of Biosciences, University Research Centre, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Petros Marangos
- Department of Biological Applications and Technology, School of Health Sciences, Institute of Biosciences, University Research Centre, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
- Biomedical Research Institute, Foundation for Research and Technology, University of Ioannina Campus, 45115 Ioannina, Greece
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5
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Martin JH, Aitken RJ, Bromfield EG, Nixon B. DNA damage and repair in the female germline: contributions to ART. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 25:180-201. [PMID: 30541031 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmy040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 09/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND DNA integrity and stability are critical determinants of cell viability. This is especially true in the female germline, wherein DNA integrity underpins successful conception, embryonic development, pregnancy and the production of healthy offspring. However, DNA is not inert; rather, it is subject to assault from various environment factors resulting in chemical modification and/or strand breakage. If structural alterations result and are left unrepaired, they have the potential to cause mutations and propagate disease. In this regard, reduced genetic integrity of the female germline ranks among the leading causes of subfertility in humans. With an estimated 10% of couples in developed countries taking recourse to ART to achieve pregnancy, the need for ongoing research into the capacity of the oocyte to detect DNA damage and thereafter initiate cell cycle arrest, apoptosis or DNA repair is increasingly more pressing. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review documents our current knowledge of the quality control mechanisms utilised by the female germline to prevent and remediate DNA damage during their development from primordial follicles through to the formation of preimplantation embryos. SEARCH METHODS The PubMed database was searched using the keywords: primordial follicle, primary follicle, secondary follicle, tertiary follicle, germinal vesical, MI, MII oocyte, zygote, preimplantation embryo, DNA repair, double-strand break and DNA damage. These keywords were combined with other phrases relevant to the topic. Literature was restricted to peer-reviewed original articles in the English language (published 1979-2018) and references within these articles were also searched. OUTCOMES In this review, we explore the quality control mechanisms utilised by the female germline to prevent, detect and remediate DNA damage. We follow the trajectory of development from the primordial follicle stage through to the preimplantation embryo, highlighting findings likely to have important implications for fertility management, age-related subfertility and premature ovarian failure. In addition, we survey the latest discoveries regarding DNA repair within the metaphase II (MII) oocyte and implicate maternal stores of endogenous DNA repair proteins and mRNA transcripts as a primary means by which they defend their genomic integrity. The collective evidence reviewed herein demonstrates that the MII oocyte can engage in the activation of major DNA damage repair pathway(s), therefore encouraging a reappraisal of the long-held paradigm that oocytes are largely refractory to DNA repair upon reaching this late stage of their development. It is also demonstrated that the zygote can exploit a number of protective strategies to mitigate the risk and/or effect the repair, of DNA damage sustained to either parental germline; affirming that DNA protection is largely a maternally driven trait but that some aspects of repair may rely on a collaborative effort between the male and female germlines. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The present review highlights the vulnerability of the oocyte to DNA damage and presents a number of opportunities for research to bolster the stringency of the oocyte's endogenous defences, with implications extending to improved diagnostics and novel therapeutic applications to alleviate the burden of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacinta H Martin
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - R John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Elizabeth G Bromfield
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
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6
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Choudhury H, Maheshwari R, Pandey M, Tekade M, Gorain B, Tekade RK. Advanced nanoscale carrier-based approaches to overcome biopharmaceutical issues associated with anticancer drug ‘Etoposide’. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2020; 106:110275. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2019.110275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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7
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Houston BJ, Nixon B, McEwan KE, Martin JH, King BV, Aitken RJ, De Iuliis GN. Whole-body exposures to radiofrequency-electromagnetic energy can cause DNA damage in mouse spermatozoa via an oxidative mechanism. Sci Rep 2019; 9:17478. [PMID: 31767903 PMCID: PMC6877509 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-53983-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Artificially generated radiofrequency-electromagnetic energy (RF-EME) is now ubiquitous in our environment owing to the utilization of mobile phone and Wi-Fi based communication devices. While several studies have revealed that RF-EME is capable of eliciting biological stress, particularly in the context of the male reproductive system, the mechanistic basis of this biophysical interaction remains largely unresolved. To extend these studies, here we exposed unrestrained male mice to RF-EME generated via a dedicated waveguide (905 MHz, 2.2 W/kg) for 12 h per day for a period of 1, 3 or 5 weeks. The testes of exposed mice exhibited no evidence of gross histological change or elevated stress, irrespective of the RF-EME exposure regimen. By contrast, 5 weeks of RF-EME exposure adversely impacted the vitality and motility profiles of mature epididymal spermatozoa. These spermatozoa also experienced increased mitochondrial generation of reactive oxygen species after 1 week of exposure, with elevated DNA oxidation and fragmentation across all exposure periods. Notwithstanding these lesions, RF-EME exposure did not impair the fertilization competence of spermatozoa nor their ability to support early embryonic development. This study supports the utility of male germ cells as sensitive tools with which to assess the biological impacts of whole-body RF-EME exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan J Houston
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Cancer Research Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Kristen E McEwan
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Jacinta H Martin
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Cancer Research Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Bruce V King
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - R John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Cancer Research Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Geoffry N De Iuliis
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia. .,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Cancer Research Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia.
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8
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Houston BJ, Nixon B, Martin JH, De Iuliis GN, Trigg NA, Bromfield EG, McEwan KE, Aitken RJ. Heat exposure induces oxidative stress and DNA damage in the male germ line. Biol Reprod 2019; 98:593-606. [PMID: 29351587 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The reproductive consequences of global warming are not currently understood. In order to address this issue, we have examined the reproductive consequences of exposing male mice to a mild heat stress. For this purpose, adult male mice were exposed to an elevated ambient temperature of 35°C under two exposure models. The first involved acute exposure for 24 h, followed by recovery periods between 1 day and 6 weeks. The alternative heating regimen involved a daily exposure of 8 h for periods of 1 or 2 weeks. In our acute model, we identified elevated sperm mitochondrial ROS generation (P < 0.05), increased sperm membrane fluidity (P < 0.05), DNA damage in the form of single-strand breaks (P < 0.001), and oxidative DNA damage (P < 0.05), characteristic of an oxidative stress cascade. This DNA damage was detected in pachytene spermatocytes (P < 0.001) and round spermatids (P < 0.001) isolated from testes after 1 day heat recovery. Despite these lesions, the spermatozoa of heat-treated mice exhibited no differences in their ability to achieve hallmarks of capacitation or to fertilize the oocyte and support development of embryos to the blastocyst stage (all P > 0.05). Collectively, our acute heat stress model supports the existence of heat susceptible stages of germ cell development, with the round spermatids being most perturbed and spermatogonial stem cells exhibiting resistance to this insult. Such findings were complemented by our chronic heat stress model, which further supported the vulnerability of the round spermatid population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan J Houston
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jacinta H Martin
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Geoffry N De Iuliis
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Natalie A Trigg
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Elizabeth G Bromfield
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kristen E McEwan
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - R John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
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9
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Martin JH, Aitken RJ, Bromfield EG, Cafe SL, Sutherland JM, Frost ER, Nixon B, Lord T. Investigation into the presence and functional significance of proinsulin C-peptide in the female germline†. Biol Reprod 2019; 100:1275-1289. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2018] [Revised: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jacinta H Martin
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights and the University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle, Australia
| | - R John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights and the University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Elizabeth G Bromfield
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights and the University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Shenae L Cafe
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights and the University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Jessie M Sutherland
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights and the University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Emily R Frost
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights and the University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights and the University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Tessa Lord
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights and the University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle, Australia
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Centre for Reproductive Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
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10
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Pereira TM, Merçon J, Passos LS, Coppo GC, Lopes TOM, Cabral DS, Scherer R, Chippari-Gomes AR. Effects of the water-soluble fraction of diesel oil (WSD) on the fertilization and development of a sea urchin (Echinometra lucunter). ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2018; 162:59-62. [PMID: 29960915 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2018.06.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Considering the high number of accidents with diesel oil spills occurring in the marine ecosystem, toxicity tests aimed at assessing the effects of this pollutant on biota are necessary and urgent. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the toxicity of the soluble fraction of diesel oil (WSD) in the fertilization success of gametes and pluteu larvae of the sea urchin Echinometra lucunter. To do this, gametes and embryos were exposed to concentrations of 0% (control group), 0.5%, 1.5% and 2.5% of WSD. The fertilization success of exposed gametes and embryos were reduced significantly when compared to the control group in all tested concentrations. With this finding, it is evident that diesel oil can be significantly promoted in the early and adult life stages of a particular organism, and a better way of evaluating this toxicity is through the analysis of contaminant effects throughout the reproductive cycle of a species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Miura Pereira
- Universidade Vila Velha - UVV, Laboratório de Ictiologia Aplicada (LAB PEIXE), Avenida Comissário José Dantas de Melo n° 21, Boa Vista 29102-770, Vila Velha, ES, Brazil
| | - Julia Merçon
- Universidade Vila Velha - UVV, Laboratório de Ictiologia Aplicada (LAB PEIXE), Avenida Comissário José Dantas de Melo n° 21, Boa Vista 29102-770, Vila Velha, ES, Brazil
| | - Larissa Souza Passos
- Universidade Vila Velha - UVV, Laboratório de Ictiologia Aplicada (LAB PEIXE), Avenida Comissário José Dantas de Melo n° 21, Boa Vista 29102-770, Vila Velha, ES, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Carvalho Coppo
- Universidade Vila Velha - UVV, Laboratório de Ictiologia Aplicada (LAB PEIXE), Avenida Comissário José Dantas de Melo n° 21, Boa Vista 29102-770, Vila Velha, ES, Brazil
| | - Taciana Onesorge Miranda Lopes
- Universidade Vila Velha - UVV, Laboratório de Ictiologia Aplicada (LAB PEIXE), Avenida Comissário José Dantas de Melo n° 21, Boa Vista 29102-770, Vila Velha, ES, Brazil
| | - Dandara Silva Cabral
- Universidade Vila Velha - UVV, Laboratório de Ictiologia Aplicada (LAB PEIXE), Avenida Comissário José Dantas de Melo n° 21, Boa Vista 29102-770, Vila Velha, ES, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Scherer
- Universidade Vila Velha - UVV, Pós Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Avenida Comissário José Dantas de Melo n° 21, Boa Vista 29102-770, Vila Velha, ES, Brazil
| | - Adriana Regina Chippari-Gomes
- Universidade Vila Velha - UVV, Laboratório de Ictiologia Aplicada (LAB PEIXE), Avenida Comissário José Dantas de Melo n° 21, Boa Vista 29102-770, Vila Velha, ES, Brazil.
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11
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Martin JH, Bromfield EG, Aitken RJ, Lord T, Nixon B. Double Strand Break DNA Repair occurs via Non-Homologous End-Joining in Mouse MII Oocytes. Sci Rep 2018; 8:9685. [PMID: 29946146 PMCID: PMC6018751 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-27892-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The unique biology of the oocyte means that accepted paradigms for DNA repair and protection are not of direct relevance to the female gamete. Instead, preservation of the integrity of the maternal genome depends on endogenous protein stores and/or mRNA transcripts accumulated during oogenesis. The aim of this study was to determine whether mature (MII) oocytes have the capacity to detect DNA damage and subsequently mount effective repair. For this purpose, DNA double strand breaks (DSB) were elicited using the topoisomerase II inhibitor, etoposide (ETP). ETP challenge led to a rapid and significant increase in DSB (P = 0.0002) and the consequential incidence of metaphase plate abnormalities (P = 0.0031). Despite this, ETP-treated MII oocytes retained their ability to participate in in vitro fertilisation, though displayed reduced developmental competence beyond the 2-cell stage (P = 0.02). To account for these findings, we analysed the efficacy of DSB resolution, revealing a significant reduction in DSB lesions 4 h post-ETP treatment. Notably, this response was completely abrogated by pharmacological inhibition of key elements (DNA-PKcs and DNA ligase IV) of the canonical non-homologous end joining DNA repair pathway, thus providing the first evidence implicating this reparative cascade in the protection of the maternal genome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacinta H Martin
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia. .,Preganancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia.
| | - Elizabeth G Bromfield
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Preganancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - R John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Preganancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Tessa Lord
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Centre for Reproductive Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Preganancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
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12
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The lipid peroxidation product 4-hydroxynonenal contributes to oxidative stress-mediated deterioration of the ageing oocyte. Sci Rep 2017; 7:6247. [PMID: 28740075 PMCID: PMC5524799 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-06372-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
An increase in intraovarian reactive oxygen species (ROS) has long been implicated in the decline in oocyte quality associated with maternal ageing. Oxidative stress (OS)-induced lipid peroxidation and the consequent generation of highly electrophilic aldehydes, such as 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), represents a potential mechanism by which ROS can inflict damage in the ageing oocyte. In this study, we have established that aged oocytes are vulnerable to damage by 4-HNE resulting from increased cytosolic ROS production within the oocyte itself. Further, we demonstrated that the age-related induction of OS can be recapitulated by exposure of germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes to exogenous H2O2. Such treatments stimulated an increase in 4-HNE generation, which remained elevated during in vitro oocyte maturation to metaphase II. Additionally, exposure of GV oocytes to either H2O2 or 4-HNE resulted in decreased meiotic completion, increased spindle abnormalities, chromosome misalignments and aneuploidy. In seeking to account for these data, we revealed that proteins essential for oocyte health and meiotic development, namely α-, β-, and γ-tubulin are vulnerable to adduction via 4-HNE. Importantly, 4-HNE-tubulin adduction, as well as increased aneuploidy rates, were resolved by co-treatment with the antioxidant penicillamine, demonstrating a possible therapeutic mechanism to improve oocyte quality in older females.
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13
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Multidrug resistance transporter-1 and breast cancer resistance protein protect against ovarian toxicity, and are essential in ovarian physiology. Reprod Toxicol 2017; 69:121-131. [PMID: 28216407 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2017.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Revised: 02/03/2017] [Accepted: 02/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian protection from chemotoxicity is essential for reproductive health. Our objective is to determine the role of ATP-dependent, Multidrug Resistance Transporters (MDRs) in this protection. Previously we identified MDR-dependent cytoprotection from cyclophosphamide in mouse and human oocytes by use of MDR inhibitors. Here we use genetic deletions in MDR1a/b/BCRP of mice to test MDR function in ovarian somatic cells and find that mdr1a/b/bcrp-/- mice had significantly increased sensitivity to cyclophosphamide. Further, estrus cyclicity and follicle distribution in mdr1a/b/bcrp-/- mice also differed from age-matched wildtype ovaries. We found that MDR gene activity cycles through estrus and that MDR-1b cyclicity correlated with 17β-estradiol surges. We also examined the metabolite composition of the ovary and learned that the mdr1a/b/bcrp-/- mice have increased accumulation of metabolites indicative of oxidative stress and inflammation. We conclude that MDRs are essential to ovarian protection from chemotoxicity and may have an important physiological role in the ovary.
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14
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Martin JH, Bromfield EG, Aitken RJ, Nixon B. Biochemical alterations in the oocyte in support of early embryonic development. Cell Mol Life Sci 2017; 74:469-485. [PMID: 27604868 PMCID: PMC11107538 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-016-2356-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2016] [Revised: 08/28/2016] [Accepted: 09/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Notwithstanding the enormous reproductive potential encapsulated within a mature mammalian oocyte, these cells present only a limited window for fertilization before defaulting to an apoptotic cascade known as post-ovulatory oocyte aging. The only cell with the capacity to rescue this potential is the fertilizing spermatozoon. Indeed, the union of these cells sets in train a remarkable series of events that endows the oocyte with the capacity to divide and differentiate into the trillions of cells that comprise a new individual. Traditional paradigms hold that, beyond the initial stimulation of fluctuating calcium (Ca2+) required for oocyte activation, the fertilizing spermatozoon plays limited additional roles in the early embryo. While this model has now been drawn into question in view of the recent discovery that spermatozoa deliver developmentally important classes of small noncoding RNAs and other epigenetic modulators to oocytes during fertilization, it is nevertheless apparent that the primary responsibility for oocyte activation rests with a modest store of maternally derived proteins and mRNA accumulated during oogenesis. It is, therefore, not surprising that widespread post-translational modifications, in particular phosphorylation, hold a central role in endowing these proteins with sufficient functional diversity to initiate embryonic development. Indeed, proteins targeted for such modifications have been linked to oocyte activation, recruitment of maternal mRNAs, DNA repair and resumption of the cell cycle. This review, therefore, seeks to explore the intimate relationship between Ca2+ release and the suite of molecular modifications that sweep through the oocyte to ensure the successful union of the parental germlines and ensure embryogenic fidelity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacinta H Martin
- Discipline of Biological Sciences and Priority Research Center for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.
| | - Elizabeth G Bromfield
- Discipline of Biological Sciences and Priority Research Center for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - R John Aitken
- Discipline of Biological Sciences and Priority Research Center for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Discipline of Biological Sciences and Priority Research Center for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
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Data on the concentrations of etoposide, PSC833, BAPTA-AM, and cycloheximide that do not compromise the vitality of mature mouse oocytes, parthenogencially activated and fertilized embryos. Data Brief 2016; 8:1215-20. [PMID: 27547800 PMCID: PMC4982922 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2016.07.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2016] [Revised: 07/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
These data document the vitality of mature mouse oocytes (Metaphase II (MII)) and early stage embryos (zygotes) following exposure to the genotoxic chemotherapeutic agent, etoposide, in combination with PSC833, a selective inhibitor of permeability glycoprotein. They also illustrate the vitality of parthenogenetically activated and fertilized embryos following incubation with the calcium chelator BAPTA-AM (1,2-Bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane- N,N,N′,N′-tetraacetic acid tetrakis (acetoxymethyl ester)), cycloheximide (an antibiotic that is capable of inhibiting protein synthesis), and hydrogen peroxide (a potent reactive oxygen species). Finally, they present evidence that permeability glycoprotein is not represented in the proteome of mouse spermatozoa. Our interpretation and discussion of these data feature in the article “Identification of a key role for permeability glycoprotein in enhancing the cellular defense mechanisms of fertilized oocytes” (Martin et al., in press) [1].
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