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Orsolini MF, Verstraete MH, van Heule M, Orellana D, Ortega A, Meyers S, Dini P. Characterization of sperm cell membrane charge and selection of high-quality sperm using microfluidics in stallions. Theriogenology 2022; 192:1-8. [PMID: 36007376 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is the only method for in vitro embryo production (IVP) in horses. Besides oocyte developmental competence, the outcome of IVP is also highly dependent on sperm quality. Therefore, it is not only essential to employ superior methods of selecting high quality sperm, but also to be able to characterize which quantifiable properties of sperm quality are most indicative of its fertility. In men, a net negative surface charge, estimated by zeta potential (ZP) is highly correlated with sperm quality and in vitro embryo developmental outcomes. However, there is no information available about approximate charges or ZP in equine sperm. Therefore, in this study we aimed to characterize equine sperm ZP and identify its associations with known measures of sperm quality. Additionally, we aimed to complete a comprehensive comparison of conventional sperm selection techniques as compared to the novel method of microfluidic sorting. Ejaculates (n = 22) were partitioned into fresh (∼23 °C, 0 h; n = 12) and cooled (∼4 °C, 24 h; n = 10) groups, and processed by swim up (SU), density gradient centrifugation (DGC), density gradient-swim up combination (DG-SU), and microfluidic chip (MF) sorting. Motility, progressive motility, cell viability, normal morphology, and ZP were evaluated for both unprocessed fractions and post-selected fractions. The ZP of both fresh and cooled samples was net negative and also correlated with motility and progressive motility for both fresh and cooled samples (P < 0.05). The ZP of cooled samples was also correlated with viability (P < 0.05). Among the compared methods of sperm selection, MF was highly effective in selecting high quality sperm as determined by the measured parameters. Percent motility, progressive motility, normal morphology, and viability of MF selected sperm were of higher quality than sperm selected by SU, and of similar to DG-SU and DGC without the use of potentially harmful centrifugation steps. Correlations between ZP, motility, and viability parameters may indicate a role of external charge on the motility and survival of sperm within the female reproductive tract. In conclusion, we identified an average net negative ZP on equine sperm and correlations between ZP and other measures of sperm quality, as well as having identified MF as a novel effective method of equine sperm selection for IVP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan F Orsolini
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Margo H Verstraete
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; Department of Morphology, Imaging, Orthopedics, Rehabilitation and Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ghent, 133 Salisburylaan, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Machteld van Heule
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; Department of Morphology, Imaging, Orthopedics, Rehabilitation and Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ghent, 133 Salisburylaan, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Daniela Orellana
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Alyssa Ortega
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Stuart Meyers
- Anatomy, Physiology, and Cell Biology, 1089 Veterinary Medicine Dr, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Pouya Dini
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, University of California, Davis, CA, USA.
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2
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Abril-Parreño L, Morgan J, Krogenæs A, Druart X, Cormican P, Gallagher ME, Reid C, Meade K, Saldova R, Fair S. Biochemical and molecular characterisation of sialylated cervical mucins in sheep. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:419-431. [PMID: 35470857 PMCID: PMC9382375 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sialic acid occupies terminal positions on O-glycans of cervical mucins, where they contribute to the increased viscosity of mucin thereby regulating sperm transport. This study characterised the sialylated cervical mucins from follicular phase mucus of six European ewe breeds with known differences in pregnancy rates following cervical artificial insemination using frozen-thawed semen at both synchronised and natural oestrus cycles. These were Suffolk (low fertility) and Belclare (medium fertility) in Ireland, Ile de France and Romanov (both with medium fertility) in France and Norwegian White Sheep (NWS) and Fur (both with high fertility) in Norway. Expression of mucin and sialic acid related genes was quantified using RNA-sequencing in cervical tissue from Suffolk, Belclare, Fur and NWS only. Cervical tissue was also assessed for the percentage of cervical epithelial populated by mucin secreting goblet cells in the same four ewe breeds. Biochemical analysis showed that there was an effect of ewe breed on sialic acid species, which was represented by Suffolk having higher levels of Neu5,9Ac2 compared to NWS (P < 0.05). Suffolk ewes had a lower percentage of goblet cells than Fur and NWS (P < 0.05). Gene expression analysis identified higher expression of MUC5AC, MUC5B, ST6GAL1, ST6GAL2 and lower expression of ST3GAL3, ST3GAL4 and SIGLEC10 in Suffolk compared to high fertility ewe breeds (P < 0.05). Our results indicate that specific alterations in sialylated mucin composition may be related to impaired cervical sperm transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Abril-Parreño
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Biological Sciences, School of Natural Sciences, Biomaterials Research Cluster, Bernal Institute, Faculty of Science and Engineering. University of Limerick, V94 T9PX, Limerick, Ireland.,Teagasc, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, C15 PW93, Grange, Ireland
| | - Jack Morgan
- NIBRT GlycoScience Group, The National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training, A94 X099, Blackrock, Ireland
| | - Anette Krogenæs
- Department of Production Animal Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 5003 1432, Ås, Norway
| | - Xavier Druart
- UMR-PRC, INRA-85, Université de Tours, IFCE, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Paul Cormican
- Teagasc, Animal & Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, C15 PW93, Grange, Ireland
| | - Mary E Gallagher
- UCD Veterinary Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, D04 W6F6, Belfield, Ireland
| | - Colm Reid
- UCD Veterinary Sciences Centre, University College Dublin, D04 W6F6, Belfield, Ireland
| | - Kieran Meade
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, D04 W6F6, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Radka Saldova
- NIBRT GlycoScience Group, The National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training, A94 X099, Blackrock, Ireland.,UCD School of Medicine, College of Health and Agricultural Science, University College Dublin, D07 A8NN, Dublin 4, Ireland.,CÚRAM, SFI Research Centre for Medical Devices, National University of Ireland, H91 W2TY, Galway, Ireland
| | - Sean Fair
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Biological Sciences, School of Natural Sciences, Biomaterials Research Cluster, Bernal Institute, Faculty of Science and Engineering. University of Limerick, V94 T9PX, Limerick, Ireland
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3
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Bryan L, Clynes M, Meleady P. The emerging role of cellular post-translational modifications in modulating growth and productivity of recombinant Chinese hamster ovary cells. Biotechnol Adv 2021; 49:107757. [PMID: 33895332 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2021.107757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells are one of the most commonly used host cell lines used for the production human therapeutic proteins. Much research over the past two decades has focussed on improving the growth, titre and cell specific productivity of CHO cells and in turn lowering the costs associated with production of recombinant proteins. CHO cell engineering has become of particular interest in recent years following the publication of the CHO cell genome and the availability of data relating to the proteome, transcriptome and metabolome of CHO cells. However, data relating to the cellular post-translational modification (PTMs) which can affect the functionality of CHO cellular proteins has only begun to be presented in recent years. PTMs are important to many cellular processes and can further alter proteins by increasing the complexity of proteins and their interactions. In this review, we describe the research presented from CHO cells to date related on three of the most important PTMs; glycosylation, phosphorylation and ubiquitination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Bryan
- National Institute for Cellular Biotechnology, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Martin Clynes
- National Institute for Cellular Biotechnology, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland
| | - Paula Meleady
- National Institute for Cellular Biotechnology, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland.
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4
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Agbugba LC, Oyewunmi AO, Ogundumade TP, Leigh OO. Investigation of vaginal mucus parameters: Development of models for staging the oestrous cycle of the Bunaji cow. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:1044-1053. [PMID: 32378764 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Changes in some vaginal mucus parameters were studied in order to generate predictive models capable of enhancing oestrous cycle staging, using equal groups (unsynchronized-USC [no treatment] and synchronized-SC [Synchromate® i/m on d0, d11]) of Bunaji cows (n = 48) aged 3-4 years. Vaginal mucus was collected (starting d11 in SC) daily over 26 days using standard procedures. Physical (viscosity, elasticity, density, resistivity) and biochemical (pH, glucose, cholesterol, total protein, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium) parameters were evaluated using standard procedures. Data were analysed using chi-square and multinomial logit regression modelling. Models generated using oestrus as reference categories were ascertained for accuracies. Chi-square values for viscosity, elasticity and density were significant (p < .01) in USC and SC across stages of the cycle. Results for USC showed that pH and cholesterol were predictive (p < .01) for pro-oestrus, metoestrus and dioestrus, while total protein was predictive (p < .01) for dioestrus only. Similarly, magnesium was predictive (p < .05) for pro-oestrus. For SC, pH, magnesium and cholesterol were predictive (p < .01) for pro-oestrus, metoestrus and dioestrus, while total protein was predictive (p < .01) for pro-oestrus and dioestrus. Potassium and total protein were also predictive for metoestrus at 10% and 5% significance levels, respectively. Though findings suggest the usefulness of magnesium in staging the oestrous cycle only in synchronized cows, pH, total protein and cholesterol appeared to be the more important vaginal mucus parameters in Bunaji cows, regardless synchronization. Furthermore, the models developed showed high accuracy levels for staging the oestrous cycle in USC (100%) and SC (89%).
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Chinyere Agbugba
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Adetomi Oyelola Oyewunmi
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Tayo Peter Ogundumade
- Laboratory for Interdisciplinary Statistical Analysis (UI-LISA), Department of Statistics, Faculty of Science, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
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Hei Z, Zhao M, Tian Y, Chang H, Shen X, Xia G, Wang J. Isolation and Characterization of a Novel Sialoglycopeptide Promoting Osteogenesis from Gadus morhua Eggs. Molecules 2019; 25:molecules25010156. [PMID: 31906039 PMCID: PMC6983019 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25010156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Gadus morhua eggs contain several nutrients, including polyunsaturated fatty acids, lecithin and glycoproteins. A novel sialoglycopeptide from the eggs of G. morhua (Gm-SGPP) was extracted with 90% phenol and purified by Q Sepharose Fast Flow (QFF) ion exchange chromatography, followed by S-300 gel filtration chromatography. Gm-SGPP contained 63.7% carbohydrate, 16.2% protein and 18.6% N-acetylneuraminic acid. High-performance size exclusion chromatography and sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) demonstrated that Gm-SGPP is a 7000-Da pure sialoglycopeptide. β-elimination reaction suggested that Gm-SGPP contained N-glycan units. Amino acid N-terminal sequence analysis indicated the presence of Ala-Ser-Asn-Gly-Thr-Gln-Ala-Pro amino acid sequence. Moreover, N-glycan was connected at the third Asn location of the peptide chain through GlcNAc. Gm-SGPP was composed of D-mannose, D-glucuronic acid and D-galactose. Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-NMR) and methylation analysis were performed to reveal the structure profile of Gm-SGPP. In vitro results showed that the proliferation activity of MC3T3-E1 cells was significantly promoted by Gm-SGPP. In vivo data revealed that Gm-SGPP increased the calcium and phosphorus content of tibias and promoted longitudinal bone growth in adolescent rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiliang Hei
- Hainan Engineering Research Center of Aquatic Resources Efficient Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Hainan 570228, China
- College of Food Science and Technology, Hainan University, Hainan 570228, China
| | - Meihui Zhao
- Hainan Engineering Research Center of Aquatic Resources Efficient Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Hainan 570228, China
- College of Food Science and Technology, Hainan University, Hainan 570228, China
| | - Yingying Tian
- Marine Biomedical Research Institute of Qingdao, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Hong Chang
- Hainan Institute for Food Control, Hainan 570228, China
| | - Xuanri Shen
- Hainan Engineering Research Center of Aquatic Resources Efficient Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Hainan 570228, China
- College of Food Science and Technology, Hainan University, Hainan 570228, China
| | - Guanghua Xia
- Hainan Engineering Research Center of Aquatic Resources Efficient Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Hainan 570228, China
- College of Food Science and Technology, Hainan University, Hainan 570228, China
- Correspondence: (G.X.); (J.W.); Tel.: +86-0898-6619-6803 (G.X.); +86-0532-8203-1948 (J.W.); Fax: +86-0532-8203-2468 (G.X.); +86-0898-6619-6803 (J.W.)
| | - Jingfeng Wang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
- Correspondence: (G.X.); (J.W.); Tel.: +86-0898-6619-6803 (G.X.); +86-0532-8203-1948 (J.W.); Fax: +86-0532-8203-2468 (G.X.); +86-0898-6619-6803 (J.W.)
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6
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Yu GM, Wu Y, Wang XL, Zhao S, Maeda T, Zeng SM. Evaluation of three hormonal protocols for anovulatory lactating cows under regulations restricting the use of estrogenic compounds. Anim Sci J 2018; 89:640-647. [PMID: 29318710 DOI: 10.1111/asj.12953] [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: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
When European Union regulations restricted the use of estrogenic compounds in food-producing animals, refined hormonal protocols were no longer applicable for anovulatory cows. However, Ovsynch and its adaptations are routinely and uniformly applied to all cows regardless of ovarian function. To evaluate their efficacy on anovulatory cows, 143, 147 and 144 anovulatory cows received Ovsynch, Presynch and G6G protocols, respectively. In comparison, 150 cyclic cows were bred without using a synchronized protocol. Results showed that cows in the Presynch group had luteolysis responding to the last prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α ) injection greater than the Ovsynch group. The serous progesterone levels at the first gonadotropin-releasing hormone of Ovsych and the last PGF2α injection was greater in the G6G group than the other two hormonal treatment groups. Concentrations of Ca2+ and total protein in cervical mucus in all three hormone-treated groups before artificial insemination (AI) were significantly different from the controls. The G6G group obtained a greater pregnancy rate compared with Ovsynch and Presynch, but significantly less than the controls. For open cows in the Ovsynch group, estrus rate within 24 days after the first AI was significantly less than the controls. In conclusion, the G6G treatment resulted to better reproductive performance in anovulatory cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang-Min Yu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China.,Institute of Oceanography, Minjiang University, Fuzhou, China.,Department of Bioresource Science, Graduate School of Biosphere Science, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yue Wu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xian-Long Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shuan Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Teruo Maeda
- Department of Bioresource Science, Graduate School of Biosphere Science, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Shen-Ming Zeng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
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7
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Han L, Taub R, Jensen JT. Cervical mucus and contraception: what we know and what we don't. Contraception 2017; 96:310-321. [DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2017.07.168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2017] [Revised: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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8
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Lopes GP, Brito AB, Paim FP, Santos RR, Queiroz HL, Domingues SFS. Comparative Characterization of the External Genitalia and Reproductive Tubular Organs of Three Species of the GenusSaimiriVoigt, 1831 (Primates: Cebidae). Anat Histol Embryol 2016; 46:143-161. [DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2015] [Accepted: 07/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- G. P. Lopes
- Postgraduate Program in Animal Science; Federal University of Pará; Belém Pará Brazil
| | - A. B. Brito
- Postgraduate Program in Animal Science; Federal University of Pará; Belém Pará Brazil
| | - F. P. Paim
- Research Group on Ecology of Terrestrial Vertebrates; Institute for Sustainable Development Mamirauá; Tefé Amazonas Brazil
| | - R. R. Santos
- Postgraduate Program in Animal Science; Federal University of Pará; Belém Pará Brazil
| | - H. L. Queiroz
- Research Group on Ecology of Terrestrial Vertebrates; Institute for Sustainable Development Mamirauá; Tefé Amazonas Brazil
| | - S. F. S. Domingues
- Postgraduate Program in Animal Science; Federal University of Pará; Belém Pará Brazil
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9
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Abstract
During maturation, the surface of mammalian spermatozoa undergoes dramatic changes leading to the acquisition of properties vital for survival and performance in the female reproductive tract. A prominent change is the addition to the sperm surface of an atypical β-defensin polypeptide. In primates, the β-defensin DEFB126 becomes adsorbed to the entire sperm surface as spermatozoa move through the epididymal duct. DEFB126 has a conserved β-defensin core and a unique long glycosylated peptide tail. The carbohydrates of this domain contribute substantially to the sperm glycocalyx. DEFB126 is critical for efficient transport of sperm in the female reproductive tract, preventing their recognition by the female immune system, and might facilitate the delivery of capacitated sperm to the site of fertilization. A newly discovered dinucleotide deletion in the human DEFB126 gene is unusually common in diverse populations and results in a null allele. Predictably, men who are homozygous for the deletion produce sperm with an altered glycocalyx and impaired function, and have reduced fertility. Insights into the biology of DEFB126 are contributing to a better understanding of reproductive fitness in humans, as well as the development of diagnostics and therapeutics for male infertility.
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10
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Abstract
Female macaques serve as an important model for the study of reproductive diseases in women. Here we summarize characteristics of the macaque cervix, with a particular emphasis on the cynomolgus macaque. Key anatomic features include a stratified squamous exocervix, squamocolumnar junction and transformation zone, and glandular endocervix with prominent colliculi. Endocervical eversion occurs with onset of ovarian cycling and regresses to varying degrees based on age, hormonal status, and individual conformation. The cervical epithelium in macaques is highly responsive to estrogens, which induce marked squamous epithelial maturation and glandular hypertrophy. Progestogen effects include further induction of endocervical secretory activity and release of viscous mucus, which functions in both mucosal immunity and fertility regulation. On immunohistochemistry, the squamous cervix shows strong expression of estrogen receptor α, the proliferation marker Ki67/MIB1, and cytokeratin 14, whereas endocervical epithelium strongly expresses estrogen and progesterone receptors and cytokeratins 18 and 19. These patterns of expression are altered in cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, which is a common spontaneous lesion of the macaque cervix associated with specific types of oncogenic papillomaviruses. This report highlights important similarities with human cervix that should be useful for future studies of genital infection, neoplasia, and immunity in the macaque model. Competing Interests: This article was sponsored by Covance Inc. and Schering-Plough. The author did not declare any other competing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles E. Wood
- Department of Pathology/Section on Comparative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
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11
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Flori F, Secciani F, Capone A, Paccagnini E, Caruso S, Ricci MG, Focarelli R. Menstrual cycle–related sialidase activity of the female cervical mucus is associated with exosome-like vesicles. Fertil Steril 2007; 88:1212-9. [PMID: 17562335 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2007.01.209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2006] [Revised: 01/30/2007] [Accepted: 01/31/2007] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study endogenous sialidase activity in genital tract secretions of pregnant and nonpregnant women. DESIGN Laboratory study. SETTING Department of Evolutionary Biology and Department of Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy. INTERVENTION(S) Vaginal and cervical mucus samples were obtained from pregnant and nonpregnant women in different phases of the menstrual cycle and in different weeks of pregnancy. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Sialidase activity was assessed by fluorimetric assay and localized by transmission electron microscopy and differential centrifugation. RESULT(S) Sialidase activity in cervical mucus of healthy women reaches a maximum in the ovulatory phase. Cervical mucus from pregnant and nonpregnant women had significant sialidase activity that was associated with membranous vesicles having an exosome-like structure. CONCLUSION(S) Female cervical mucus contains an endogenous menstrual cycle-related sialidase that could be involved in modifying the rheologic properties of mucus to favor sperm progression at fertilization. Its association with exosome-like vesicles also suggests a role in intercellular communication before and after fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Flori
- Department of Evolutionary Biology, University of Siena, Policlinico le Scotte, Siena, Italy
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12
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Ahmad I, Hoessli DC, Gupta R, Walker-Nasir E, Rafik SM, Choudhary MI, Shakoori AR. In silico determination of intracellular glycosylation and phosphorylation sites in human selectins: implications for biological function. J Cell Biochem 2007; 100:1558-72. [PMID: 17230456 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.21156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Post-translational modifications provide the proteins with the possibility to perform functions in addition to those determined by their primary sequence. However, analysis of multifunctional protein structures in the environment of cells and body fluids is made especially difficult by the presence of other interacting proteins. Bioinformatics tools are therefore helpful to predict protein multifunctionality through the identification of serine and threonine residues wherein the hydroxyl group is likely to become modified by phosphorylation or glycosylation. Moreover, serines and threonines where both modifications are likely to occur can also be predicted (YinYang sites), to suggest further functional versatility. Structural modifications of hydroxyl groups of P-, E-, and L-selectins have been predicted and possible functions resulting from such modifications are proposed. Functional changes of the three selectins are based on the assumption that transitory and reversible protein modifications by phosphate and O-GlcNAc cause specific conformational changes and generate binding sites for other proteins. The computer-assisted prediction of glycosylation and phosphorylation sites in selectins should be helpful to assess the contribution of dynamic protein modifications in selectin-mediated inflammatory responses and cell-cell adhesion processes that are difficult to determine experimentally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishtiaq Ahmad
- Institute of Molecular Sciences and Bioinformatics, Lahore, Pakistan
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13
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Ahmad I, Hoessli DC, Walker-Nasir E, Choudhary MI, Rafik SM, Shakoori AR. Phosphorylation and glycosylation interplay: protein modifications at hydroxy amino acids and prediction of signaling functions of the human beta3 integrin family. J Cell Biochem 2007; 99:706-18. [PMID: 16676352 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.20814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Protein functions are determined by their three-dimensional structures and the folded 3-D structure is in turn governed by the primary structure and post-translational modifications the protein undergoes during synthesis and transport. Defining protein functions in vivo in the cellular and extracellular environments is made very difficult in the presence of other molecules. However, the modifications taking place during and after protein folding are determined by the modification potential of amino acids and not by the primary structure or sequence. These post-translational modifications, like phosphorylation and O-linked N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) modifications, are dynamic and result in temporary conformational changes that regulate many functions of the protein. Computer-assisted studies can help determining protein functions by assessing the modification potentials of a given protein. Integrins are important membrane receptors involved in bi-directional (outside-in and inside-out) signaling events. The beta3 integrin family, including, alpha(IIb)beta3 and alpha(v)beta3, has been studied for its role in platelet aggregation during clot formation and clot retraction based on hydroxyl group modification by phosphate and GlcNAc on Ser, Thr, or Tyr and their interplay on Ser and Thr in the cytoplasmic domain of the beta3 subunit. An antagonistic role of phosphate and GlcNAc interplay at Thr758 for controlling both inside-out and outside-in signaling events is proposed. Additionally, interplay of GlcNAc and phosphate at Ser752 has been proposed to control activation and inactivation of integrin-associated Src kinases. This study describes the multifunctional behavior of integrins based on their modification potential at hydroxyl groups of amino acids as a source of interplay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishtiaq Ahmad
- Institute of Molecular Sciences and Bioinformatics, Lahore, Pakistan
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14
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Leethongdee S, Khalid M, Bhatti A, Ponglowhapan S, Kershaw CM, Scaramuzzi RJ. The effects of the prostaglandin E analogue Misoprostol and follicle-stimulating hormone on cervical penetrability in ewes during the peri-ovulatory period. Theriogenology 2007; 67:767-77. [PMID: 17126896 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2006.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2006] [Revised: 10/18/2006] [Accepted: 10/19/2006] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Two experiments in parous Welsh Mountain ewes determined the pattern of natural cervical relaxation over the peri-ovulatory period and investigated FSH and Misoprostol as cervical relaxants to facilitate transcervical passage of an insemination pipette into the uterine cavity. Following synchronisation of oestrus using progestagen sponges and PMSG (500 IU) the depth of cervical penetration was determined using a modified cattle insemination pipette as a measuring device. Penetration of the cervix was least at the time of sponge removal and increased to a maximum at 72 h after sponge removal and then declined. Intra-cervical administrations of either ovine FSH (Ovagen; 2mg) or Misoprostol (1mg; a Prostaglandin E(1) analogue) facilitated cervical penetration. Ovagen given 24h after sponge removal allowed transcervical intrauterine penetration in 100% of ewes at 54 and 60 h after sponge removal while Misoprostol given 48 h after sponge removal allowed trans-cervical penetration in 100% of ewes at 54 h. A combination of Ovagen and Misoprostol was as effective but not more so than Ovagen or Misoprostol alone. These results show that there is natural relaxation of the cervix at oestrus and that maximum relaxation occurs 72 h after sponge removal, which is too late for the correct timing of insemination. The intra-cervical administration of FSH or Misoprostol enhanced relaxation of the cervix and both were able to relax the cervix to allow intrauterine penetration 54 h after sponge removal, the optimum time for insemination. The results also show that FSH is biologically active after intracervical, topical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukanya Leethongdee
- Department of Veterinary Basic Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mimms, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA, UK.
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Yudin AI, Treece CA, Tollner TL, Overstreet JW, Cherr GN. The Carbohydrate Structure of DEFB126, the Major Component of the Cynomolgus Macaque Sperm Plasma Membrane Glycocalyx. J Membr Biol 2005; 207:119-29. [PMID: 16550483 DOI: 10.1007/s00232-005-0806-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2005] [Revised: 10/26/2005] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Based on the amino-acid sequence of the macaque epididymal secretory protein, ESP 13.2 (Q9BEE3/AJ236909), it has now been classified as beta-defensin DEFB126. DEFB126 is one of the five beta-defensins with genes that are clustered along chromosome 20pl3, and all five proteins have an extended carboxy terminus that continues beyond the 6-cysteine beta-defensin core region. This 60-amino acid carboxyl tail extension of the DEFB126 molecule is extraordinarily rich in threonine and serine (40%), many of which appear to be likely candidates for having O-glycosylation. DEFB126 has been shown to coat the entire surface of cynomolgus macaque sperm as they move through the corpus/caudal region of the epididymis. It is a major glycocalyx barrier to the external environment and is retained until the completion of capacitation. Sperm exposed to fluorescein-conjugated poly-L-lysine or Alexa488-histone showed a very uniform fluorescent labeling pattern over the entire sperm surface, almost identical to that observed with anti-DEFB126 Ig label. Sperm surface components that were released following treatment with caffeine/cAMP (in vitro capacitation) were blotted and probed with three different lectins which are known to recognize terminal sialic acid residues, and all three recognized the 35 kDa DEFB126 band. Neuraminidase treatment of sperm shifted the molecular weight of DEFB126 from 34-36 kDa to approximately 38-40 kDa and removed or greatly inhibited sialic acid-specific lectin recognition. O-Glycanase treatment alone was ineffective at removal of the oligosaccharides, but prior treatment with neuraminidase was sufficient to enable the O-glycanase treatment to effectively change the apparent molecular weight to 10 kDa, confirming that a major portion of the molecular mass is associated with the carbohydrate portion. Western blots of neuraminidase-treated DEFB126 showed strong recognition with a number of lectins that identify beta-galactose and also lectins that recognize the N-acetylgalactosamine-serine/threonine, the proposed connection site of O-glycosylation. All of the lectins that recognized DEFB126 on Western blots were used to fluorescently probe sperm. The fluorescent patterns that were observed with poly-L-lysine, Alexa488-histone, sialic acid-specific lectins, and galactose-specific lectins showed even distributions over the entire sperm surface and the patterns were identical to sperm labeled with anti-DEFB126 Ig, and all but the antibody did not recognize neuraminidase-treated sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- A I Yudin
- Division of Reproductive Biology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
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