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da Silva Rosa PM, Bridi A, de Ávila Ferronato G, Prado CM, Bastos NM, Sangalli JR, Meirelles FV, Perecin F, da Silveira JC. Corpus luteum presence in the bovine ovary increase intrafollicular progesterone concentration: consequences in follicular cells gene expression and follicular fluid small extracellular vesicles miRNA contents. J Ovarian Res 2024; 17:65. [PMID: 38500173 PMCID: PMC10946200 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-024-01387-3] [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: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is well described that circulating progesterone (P4) plays a key role in several reproductive events such as oocyte maturation. However, during diestrus, when circulating P4 is at the highest concentrations, little is known about its local impact on the follicular cells such as intrafollicular P4 concentration due to corpus luteum (CL) presence within the same ovary. Based on that, our hypothesis is that the CL presence in the ovary during diestrus alters intrafollicular P4 concentrations, oocyte competence acquisition, follicular cells gene expression, and small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) miRNAs contents. RESULTS P4 hormonal analysis revealed that ipsilateral to the CL follicular fluid (iFF) presented higher P4 concentration compared to contralateral follicular fluid (cFF). Furthermore, oocyte maturation and miRNA biogenesis pathways transcripts (ADAMTS-1 and AGO2, respectively) were increased in cumulus and granulosa cells of iFF, respectively. Nevertheless, a RT-PCR screening of 382 miRNAs showed that three miRNAs were upregulated and two exclusively expressed in sEVs from iFF and are predicted to regulate cell communication pathways. Similarly, seven miRNAs were higher and two exclusively expressed from cFF sEVs and are predicted to modulate proliferation signaling pathways. CONCLUSION In conclusion, intrafollicular P4 concentration is influenced by the presence of the CL and modulates biological processes related to follicular cell development and oocyte competence, which may influence the oocyte quality. Altogether, these results are crucial to improve our knowledge about the follicular microenvironment involved in oocyte competence acquisition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Maria da Silva Rosa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Pirassununga, São Paulo, 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Bridi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Pirassununga, São Paulo, 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Giuliana de Ávila Ferronato
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Pirassununga, São Paulo, 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Cibele Maria Prado
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Pirassununga, São Paulo, 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Natália Marins Bastos
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Pirassununga, São Paulo, 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Juliano Rodrigues Sangalli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Pirassununga, São Paulo, 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Flávio Vieira Meirelles
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Pirassununga, São Paulo, 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Felipe Perecin
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Pirassununga, São Paulo, 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Juliano Coelho da Silveira
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225, Pirassununga, São Paulo, 13635-900, Brazil.
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Coxir SA, Costa GMJ, Santos CFD, Alvarenga RDLLS, Lacerda SMDSN. From in vivo to in vitro: exploring the key molecular and cellular aspects of human female gametogenesis. Hum Cell 2023:10.1007/s13577-023-00921-7. [PMID: 37237248 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-023-00921-7] [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: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Human oogenesis is a highly complex and not yet fully understood process due to ethical and technological barriers that limit studies in the field. In this context, replicating female gametogenesis in vitro would not only provide a solution for some infertility problems, but also be an excellent study model to better understand the biological mechanisms that determine the formation of the female germline. In this review, we explore the main cellular and molecular aspects involved in human oogenesis and folliculogenesis in vivo, from the specification of primordial germ cells (PGCs) to the formation of the mature oocyte. We also sought to describe the important bidirectional relationship between the germ cell and the follicular somatic cells. Finally, we address the main advances and different methodologies used in the search for obtaining cells of the female germline in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Abreu Coxir
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Mattos Jardim Costa
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Camilla Fernandes Dos Santos
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | | | - Samyra Maria Dos Santos Nassif Lacerda
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil.
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Speckhart SL, Oliver MA, Ealy AD. Developmental Hurdles That Can Compromise Pregnancy during the First Month of Gestation in Cattle. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1760. [PMID: 37889637 PMCID: PMC10251927 DOI: 10.3390/ani13111760] [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: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Several key developmental events are associated with early embryonic pregnancy losses in beef and dairy cows. These developmental problems are observed at a greater frequency in pregnancies generated from in-vitro-produced bovine embryos. This review describes critical problems that arise during oocyte maturation, fertilization, early embryonic development, compaction and blastulation, embryonic cell lineage specification, elongation, gastrulation, and placentation. Additionally, discussed are potential remediation strategies, but unfortunately, corrective actions are not available for several of the problems being discussed. Further research is needed to produce bovine embryos that have a greater likelihood of surviving to term.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alan D. Ealy
- School of Animal Science, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA; (S.L.S.); (M.A.O.)
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4
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Hessock EA, Edwards JL, Schrick FN, Payton RR, Campagna SR, Pollock AB, Clark HM, Stokes AE, Klabnik JL, Hill KS, Roberts SR, Hinson MG, Moorey SE. Metabolite abundance in bovine preovulatory follicular fluid is influenced by follicle developmental progression post estrous onset in cattle. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1156060. [PMID: 37215073 PMCID: PMC10196500 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1156060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Preovulatory follicle response to the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge leads to metabolic, molecular, and functional changes in the oocyte and somatic follicular cells from the onset of estrus to ovulation. Follicular fluid contains metabolites, miRNAs, proteins, and hormones that are byproducts of follicular metabolism and support cellular processes of oocyte, cumulus, and granulosa constituents. Numerous studies have highlighted the importance of follicular fluid composition to support fertility, but critical gaps exist toward understanding dynamic modifications in the follicular fluid metabolome from estrous onset to ovulation. The hypothesis was that abundance of follicular fluid metabolites is dependent on follicle progression post LH surge and variability in follicular fluid metabolome profiles indicate key processes required for preparation of the follicle and oocyte for optimal fertility. The objective was to generate preovulatory follicular fluid metabolome profiles and discern differences in the metabolome of preovulatory follicular fluid samples collected at onset of estrus, 11 h post estrous onset, and 18 h post estrous onset. Methods: Estrus was synchronized in non-lactating Jersey cows (n=40) and follicular fluid was collected immediately after the first observed standing mount (hr 0) or at approximately h 11 or 18 after the first standing mount. Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-High Resolution Mass Spectrometry was performed on preovulatory follicular fluid samples (n = 9 collected at hr 0, 9 at h 11, and 10 at h 18) and a multiple linear model was performed to determine if time post estrous onset impacted metabolite abundance. Results: Metabolites influenced by time post estrous onset were tested for enrichment in KEGG pathways. Ninety metabolites were identified in follicular fluid samples. Twenty metabolites differed in abundance among timepoints post estrous onset (p ≤ 0.05). Pathways corresponding to amino acid and energy metabolism were enriched with metabolites impacted by time post estrous onset (FDR ≤ 0.10). Discussion: Results from the current study indicate early response to the LH surge to increase bioavailability of amino acids and metabolites used by the cumulus and granulosa cells for energy production and shuttled into the oocyte to support meiotic maturation. Such metabolites may later be used by the ovulatory follicle for protein production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma A. Hessock
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - J. Lannett Edwards
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - F. Neal Schrick
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Rebecca R. Payton
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Shawn R. Campagna
- Department of Chemistry, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Abigayle B. Pollock
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Hannah M. Clark
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Allyson E. Stokes
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Jessica L. Klabnik
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Kennedy S. Hill
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Samantha R. Roberts
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Meredith G. Hinson
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | - Sarah E. Moorey
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
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Read CC, Edwards JL, Schrick FN, Rhinehart JD, Payton RR, Campagna SR, Castro HF, Klabnik JL, Moorey SE. Preovulatory serum estradiol concentration is positively associated with oocyte ATP and follicular fluid metabolite abundance in lactating beef cattle. J Anim Sci 2022; 100:6620784. [PMID: 35772749 PMCID: PMC9246671 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cattle induced to ovulate a small, physiologically immature preovulatory follicle had reduced oocyte developmental competence that resulted in decreased embryo cleavage and day 7 embryo quality compared with animals induced to ovulate a more advanced follicle. RNA-sequencing was performed on oocytes and their corresponding cumulus cells approximately 23 h after gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) administration to induce the preovulatory gonadotropin surge suggested reduced capacity for glucose metabolism and oxidative phosphorylation in the cumulus cells and oocytes from follicles ≤11.7 mm, respectively. We hypothesized that induced ovulation of a small, physiologically immature preovulatory follicle results in a suboptimal follicular microenvironment and reduced oocyte metabolic capacity. We performed a study with the objective to determine the impact of preovulatory follicle diameter and serum estradiol concentration at GnRH administration on oocyte metabolic competence and follicular fluid metabolome profiles. We synchronized the development of a preovulatory follicle and collected the follicle contents via transvaginal aspiration approximately 19 h after GnRH administration in lactating beef cows (n = 319). We determined ATP levels and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number in 110 oocytes and performed ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–high resolution mass spectrometry metabolomic studies on 45 follicular fluid samples. Intraoocyte ATP and the amount of ATP produced per mtDNA copy number were associated with serum estradiol concentration at GnRH and time from GnRH administration to follicle aspiration (P < 0.05). mtDNA copy number was not related to follicle diameter at GnRH, serum estradiol concentration at GnRH, or any potential covariates (P > 0.10). We detected 90 metabolites in the aspirated follicular fluid. We identified 22 metabolites associated with serum estradiol concentration at GnRH and 63 metabolites associated with follicular fluid progesterone concentration at the time of follicle aspiration (FDR < 0.10). Pathway enrichment analysis of significant metabolites suggested altered proteinogenesis, citric acid cycle, and pyrimidine metabolism in follicles of reduced estrogenic capacity pre-gonadotropin surge or reduced progesterone production by the time of follicle aspiration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey C Read
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - J Lannett Edwards
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - F Neal Schrick
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Justin D Rhinehart
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Rebecca R Payton
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Shawn R Campagna
- Department of Chemistry, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Hector F Castro
- Department of Chemistry, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Jessica L Klabnik
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Sarah E Moorey
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
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6
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Marchais M, Gilbert I, Bastien A, Macaulay A, Robert C. Mammalian cumulus-oocyte complex communication: a dialog through long and short distance messaging. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:1011-1025. [PMID: 35499777 PMCID: PMC9107539 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02438-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Communications are crucial to ovarian follicle development and to ovulation, and while both folliculogenesis and oogenesis are distinct processes, they share highly interdependent signaling pathways. Signals from distant organs such as the brain must be processed and compartments within the follicle have to be synchronized. The hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis relies on long-distance signalling analogous to wireless communication by which data is disseminated in the environment and cells equipped with the appropriate receptors receive and interpret the messages. In contrast, direct cell-to-cell transfer of molecules is a very targeted, short distance messaging system. Numerous signalling pathways have been identified and proven to be essential for the production of a developmentally competent egg. The development of the cumulus-oocyte complex relies largely on short distance communications or direct transfer type via extensions of corona radiata cells through the zona pellucida. The type of information transmitted through these transzonal projections is still largely uncharacterized. This review provides an overview of current understanding of the mechanisms by which the gamete receives and transmits information within the follicle. Moreover, it highlights the fact that in addition to the well-known systemic long-distance based communications from the HPG axis, these mechanisms acting more locally should also be considered as important targets for controlling/optimizing oocyte quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Marchais
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Réseau Québécois en Reproduction (RQR), Pavillon Paul Comtois, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Isabelle Gilbert
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Réseau Québécois en Reproduction (RQR), Pavillon Paul Comtois, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Alexandre Bastien
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Réseau Québécois en Reproduction (RQR), Pavillon Paul Comtois, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Angus Macaulay
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Réseau Québécois en Reproduction (RQR), Pavillon Paul Comtois, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Claude Robert
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Réseau Québécois en Reproduction (RQR), Pavillon Paul Comtois, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.
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7
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Duan J, Chen H, Li Y, Xu D, Li X, Zhang Z, Cheng J, Yang L, Li Q. 17β-Estradiol Enhances Porcine Meiosis Resumption from Autophagy-Induced Gap Junction Intercellular Communications and Connexin 43 Phosphorylation via the MEK/ERK Signaling Pathway. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2021; 69:11847-11855. [PMID: 34609142 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.1c04212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Estrogen and its analogues are ubiquitous in agricultural environments, with large biological functions of oocyte development. Gap junction intercellular communications (GJICs) are the structural basis in cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) and regulate oocyte maturation and developmental material transport through a number of pathways. This study mainly determines the effect and potential mechanism of estrogen (17β-estradiol) in regulating GJICs in porcine COCs. In our study, 17β-estradiol increased porcine nuclear maturation in a time-dependent manner. The analysis revealed that 17β-estradiol upregulated the autophagy in COCs during in vitro maturation. In contrast with the control, 17β-estradiol decreased GJICs in a time-dependent manner between cumulus cells and oocytes, while it was consistent with the control group at 24 h. Carbenoxolone (CBX) blocks GJICs as a negative control group used in our system. Autophagy inhibitor autophinib decreased oocyte maturation, and the reduced nuclear maturation treated with autophinib was abolished by 17β-estradiol. Besides, the upregulation effect of autophinib on GJICs and transzonal projections (TZPs) was decreased by 17β-estradiol. 17β-Estradiol could reduce serine 368 phosphorylation of connexin 43 (Cx43) protein by autophinib in porcine COCs. These results were dependent upon the MEK/ERK signaling pathway. Furthermore, 17β-estradiol-induced GJICs and Cx43 phosphorylation were inhibited by autophinib or the MEK/ERK pathway inhibitors (Trametinib and FR 180204), indicating that 17β-estradiol regulated GJICs through the MEK/ERK signaling pathway. In conclusion, 17β-estradiol improves the autophagy-mediated nuclear maturation with downregulating GJICs and TZPs in porcine COCs. Such an effect occurs by phosphorylation of Cx43, which was regulated via the MEK/ERK signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Duan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Huali Chen
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang, Sichuan 621000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Dejun Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, Sichuan 400000, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoya Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Zelin Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianyong Cheng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
| | - Qingwang Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Xianyang, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China
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Liu JC, Xing CH, Xu Y, Pan ZN, Zhang HL, Zhang Y, Sun SC. DEHP exposure to lactating mice affects ovarian hormone production and antral follicle development of offspring. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 416:125862. [PMID: 34492810 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.125862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is widely used as a plastic additive and it could induce reproduction defects and fertility in mammals as environmental endocrine disruptor. However, the effects and potential mechanism of DEHP exposure during lactation stage on follicular development of offspring are still unclear. In this study, we found that the total primordial follicle number and antral follicles in the suckling of mice exposed to DEHP during lactation was significantly reduced. RNA-seq analysis results showed that the transcription levels of genes related to steroid production, ovarian hormone secretion and oxidative stress were significantly changed, which led to a decrease in 17β-estradiol and an increase in oxidative stress. The proportion of DNA damage marker γH2AX in the ovary of female suckling exposed to DEHP was significantly increased. We also found an increase in the level of ovarian apoptosis, and the proliferation of ovarian granulosa cells was inhibited. These alterations also lead to abnormal spindle and chromosome misalignment during oocyte maturation. Overall, our data indicate that lactation exposure to DEHP can affect the secretion of hormones and the development of antral follicles in suckling mice by affecting the secretion pathways of ovarian hormone enzymes and oxidative stress pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Cai Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Chun-Hua Xing
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yi Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Zhen-Nan Pan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Hao-Lin Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Shao-Chen Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
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9
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Jiang L, Huang H, Qian Y, Li Y, Chen X, Di N, Yang D. miR-130b regulates gap junctional intercellular communication through connexin 43 in granulosa cells from patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 26:576-584. [PMID: 32559300 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, noncoding RNAs that negatively regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally. We explored whether connexin 43 (Cx43) was differently expressed in luteinized granulosa cells from women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) compared with luteinized granulosa cells from women with a normal menstrual cycle, and whether certain miRNAs regulate the Cx43 level and gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC). The miRNA profile was investigated in ovarian cortex tissues from five women with PCOS and five women without PCOS using a miRNA microarray. The levels of miR-130b and Cx43 mRNA were measured using real-time PCR in human luteinized granulosa cells from 20 women with PCOS and 25 women without PCOS. Protein and mRNA expression analysis and luciferase assays were conducted to confirm the substrate of miR-130b. PCOS ovarian cortex showed differential expression of miRNAs compared with non-PCOS ovarian cortex. Furthermore, miR-130b levels were increased in PCOS ovarian cortex and in luteinized granulosa cells compared with those in women with normal menstrual cycles, whereas the level of Cx43 mRNA, the identified target of miR-130b, was decreased in granulosa cells from patients with PCOS. Overexpression of miR-130b in a granulosa cell line resulted in reduced Cx43 protein levels and inhibited GJIC using scrape loading and dye transfer assay. Meanwhile, inhibition of miR-130b increased the Cx43 level. In conclusion, miR-130b was increased in PCOS granulosa cells, where it targets Cx43 to affect GJIC. The results of the present study suggested that miR-130b, via post-transcriptional regulation of Cx43, is involved in the pathophysiology of PCOS, which provides new insight into the pathological mechanism of PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linlin Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiamen University Affiliated Women and Children Hospital, Xiamen, China
| | - Yifan Qian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoli Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Na Di
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dongzi Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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10
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Santacruz-Márquez R, González-De Los Santos M, Hernández-Ochoa I. Ovarian toxicity of nanoparticles. Reprod Toxicol 2021; 103:79-95. [PMID: 34098047 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2021.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The ovary is a highly important organ for female reproduction. The main functions include sex steroid hormone synthesis, follicular development, and achievement of oocyte meiotic and development competence for proper fertilization. Nanoparticle (NP) exposure is becoming unavoidable because of its wide use in different products, including cosmetics, food, health, and personal care products. Studies examining different nonreproductive tissues or systems have shown that characteristics such as the size, shape, core material, agglomeration, and dissolution influence the effects of NPs. However, most studies evaluating NP-mediated reproductive toxicity have paid little or no attention to the influence of the physicochemical characteristics of NP on the observed effects. As accumulating evidence indicates that NP may reach the ovary to impair proper functions, this review summarizes the available data on NP accumulation in ovarian tissue, as well as data describing toxicity to ovarian functions, including sex steroid hormone production, follicular development, oocyte quality, and fertility. Due to their toxicological relevance, this review also describes the main physicochemical characteristics involved in NP toxicity and the importance of considering NP physicochemical characteristics as factors influencing the ovarian toxicity of NPs. Finally, this review summarizes the main mechanisms of toxicity described in ovarian cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramsés Santacruz-Márquez
- Departamento de Toxicología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (Cinvestav), Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Col. San Pedro Zacatenco, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico
| | - Marijose González-De Los Santos
- Departamento de Toxicología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (Cinvestav), Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Col. San Pedro Zacatenco, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico
| | - Isabel Hernández-Ochoa
- Departamento de Toxicología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (Cinvestav), Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, Col. San Pedro Zacatenco, Ciudad de México 07360, Mexico.
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11
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Wołodko K, Castillo-Fernandez J, Kelsey G, Galvão A. Revisiting the Impact of Local Leptin Signaling in Folliculogenesis and Oocyte Maturation in Obese Mothers. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:4270. [PMID: 33924072 PMCID: PMC8074257 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22084270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The complex nature of folliculogenesis regulation accounts for its susceptibility to maternal physiological fitness. In obese mothers, progressive expansion of adipose tissue culminates with severe hyperestrogenism and hyperleptinemia with detrimental effects for ovarian performance. Indeed, maternal obesity is associated with the establishment of ovarian leptin resistance. This review summarizes current knowledge on potential effects of impaired leptin signaling throughout folliculogenesis and oocyte developmental competence in mice and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Wołodko
- Department of Reproductive Immunology and Pathology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of PAS, Tuwima 10, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | | | - Gavin Kelsey
- Epigenetics Programme, Babraham Institute, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK; (J.C.-F.); (G.K.)
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - António Galvão
- Department of Reproductive Immunology and Pathology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of PAS, Tuwima 10, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland;
- Epigenetics Programme, Babraham Institute, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK; (J.C.-F.); (G.K.)
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
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12
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Gingrich J, Pu Y, Upham BL, Hulse M, Pearl S, Martin D, Avery A, Veiga-Lopez A. Bisphenol S enhances gap junction intercellular communication in ovarian theca cells. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 263:128304. [PMID: 33155548 PMCID: PMC7726030 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) is necessary for ovarian function, and it is temporospatially regulated during follicular development and ovulation. At outermost layer of the antral follicle, theca cells provide structural, steroidogenic, and vascular support. Inter- and extra-thecal GJIC is required for intrafollicular trafficking of signaling molecules. Because GJIC can be altered by hormones and endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), we tested if any of five common EDCs (bisphenol A (BPA), bisphenol S (BPS), bisphenol F (BPF), perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), and triphenyltin chloride (TPT)) can interfere with theca cell GJIC. Since most chemicals are reported to repress GJIC, we hypothesized that all chemicals tested, within environmentally relevant human exposure concentrations, will inhibit theca cell GJICs. To evaluate this hypothesis, we used a scrape loading/dye transfer assay. BPS, but no other chemical tested, enhanced GJIC in a dose- and time-dependent manner in ovine primary theca cells. A signal-protein inhibitor approach was used to explore the GJIC-modulatory pathways involved. Phospholipase C and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitors significantly attenuated BPS-induced enhanced GJIC. Human theca cells were used to evaluate translational relevance of these findings. Human primary theca cells had a ∼40% increase in GJIC in response to BPS, which was attenuated with a MAPK inhibitor, suggestive of a conserved mechanism. Upregulation of GJIC could result in hyperplasia of the theca cell layer or prevent ovulation by holding the oocyte in meiotic arrest. Further studies are necessary to understand in vitro to in vivo translatability of these findings on follicle development and fertility outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Gingrich
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Yong Pu
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Brad L Upham
- Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Madeline Hulse
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sparrow Health System, Lansing, MI, 48912, USA
| | - Sarah Pearl
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sparrow Health System, Lansing, MI, 48912, USA
| | - Denny Martin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sparrow Health System, Lansing, MI, 48912, USA
| | - Anita Avery
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sparrow Health System, Lansing, MI, 48912, USA; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA
| | - Almudena Veiga-Lopez
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, 48824, USA; Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
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13
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Parthenogenetic activation of buffalo ( Bubalus bubalis) oocytes: comparison of different activation reagents and different media on their developmental competence and quantitative expression of developmentally regulated genes. ZYGOTE 2020; 29:49-58. [PMID: 33004105 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199420000519] [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] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
This study was carried out to compare the efficacy of different methods to activate buffalo A + B and C + D quality oocytes parthenogenetically and to study the in vitro developmental competence of oocytes and expression of some important genes at the different developmental stages of parthenotes. The percentage of A + B oocytes (62.16 ± 5.06%, range 53.8-71.3%) was significantly higher (P < 0.001) compared with that of C + D oocytes (37.8 ± 5.00%, range 28.6-46.1%) retrieved from slaughterhouse buffalo ovaries. Among all combinations, ethanol activation followed by culture in research vitro cleave medium gave the highest cleavage and blastocyst yields for both A + B and C + D grade oocytes. Total cell numbers, inner cell mass/trophectoderm ratio and apoptotic index of A + B group blastocysts were significantly different (P < 0.05) from their C + D counterpart. To determine the status of expression patterns of developmentally regulated genes, the expression of cumulus-oocyte complexes, fertilization, developmental competence and apoptotic-related genes were also studied in parthenogenetically produced buffalo embryos at different stages, and indicated that the differential expression patterns of the above genes had a role in early embryonic development.
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14
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De Los Reyes M, Palomino J, Gallegos C, Espinoza R, Dettleff P, Peralta OA, Parraguez VH, Ramirez G. Gene and protein expression of connexins 37 and 43 in cumulus-oocytes complexes throughout the canine oestrous cycle. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 32:976-987. [PMID: 32693910 DOI: 10.1071/rd20126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of connexin (Cx) 37 and Cx43 in canine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) during the oestrous cycle. Cx localisation was analysed by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence, whereas protein and gene expression was evaluated by western blotting and quantitative polymerase chain reaction respectively; comparisons were made using analysis of variance. Both Cx37 and Cx43 were expressed in all follicular stages; Cx43 was identified in cumulus cells and Cx37 was identified in cumulus cells, zonae pellucida and oocytes. Immunofluorescence analyses showed that Cx37 remained unchanged during the preovulatory stage but decreased after ovulation, whereas Cx43 remained unchanged before and after ovulation. Cx43 transcripts increased (P<0.05) during anoestrus and dioestrus in medium-sized follicles but remained unaltered during the pro-oestrus and antral stages during oestrus, before and after ovulation. Cx37 mRNA levels decreased in ovulated COCs (P<0.05). The highest levels of Cx37 protein (P<0.05) were detected in the preantral stage during anoestrus. In contrast, strong Cx43 signals were detected in oestrus and in medium-sized antral follicles in dioestrus (P<0.05). Overall, we demonstrated that Cx37 and Cx43 exhibit different expression patterns, suggesting specific roles throughout growth. Maintenance of Cx expression before ovulation indicates the involvement of Cx37 and Cx43 in the prolonged meiotic arrest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica De Los Reyes
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Casilla 2, Correo 15, La Granja, Santiago, Chile; and Corresponding author.
| | - Jaime Palomino
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Casilla 2, Correo 15, La Granja, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carola Gallegos
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Casilla 2, Correo 15, La Granja, Santiago, Chile
| | - Roberto Espinoza
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Casilla 2, Correo 15, La Granja, Santiago, Chile
| | - Phillipe Dettleff
- Laboratory Inviogen, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Casilla 2, Correo 15, La Granja, Santiago, Chile
| | - Oscar A Peralta
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Casilla 2, Correo 15, La Granja, Santiago, Chile
| | - Victor H Parraguez
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Casilla 2, Correo 15, La Granja, Santiago, Chile
| | - George Ramirez
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Casilla 2, Correo 15, La Granja, Santiago, Chile
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15
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Rodosthenous RS, Baccarelli AA, Mansour A, Adir M, Israel A, Racowsky C, Hauser R, Bollati V, Machtinger R. Supraphysiological Concentrations of Bisphenol A Alter the Expression of Extracellular Vesicle-Enriched miRNAs From Human Primary Granulosa Cells. Toxicol Sci 2020; 169:5-13. [PMID: 30690568 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfz020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a widely used chemical that has been detected in follicular fluid and associated with adverse reproductive effects. Granulosa cells have an important role in follicular growth and oocyte maturation, however, little is known about the biological mechanisms of BPA toxicity on human granulosa cells. In this study, we exposed primary granulosa cells to different concentrations of BPA (0, 20, 200, 2000, and 20 000 ng/ml) and used quantitative polymerase chain reaction to measure the expression levels of miRNAs enriched in extracellular vesicles (EV-enriched miRNAs), and cellular levels of selected target genes of differentially expressed EV-enriched miRNAs. We found that exposure to 20 000 ng/ml BPA was associated with decreased levels of EV-miR-27b-3p (FC = 0.58, p = .04) and increased levels of its biologically relevant target genes FADD (FC = 1.22, p = .01), IGF1 (FC = 1.59, p = .06), and PPARG (FC = 1.73, p = .001) as compared with the control. In addition, we observed that under the same exposure conditions, the expression levels of miR-27b-3p in granulosa cells were also downregulated (FC = 0.65, p = .03) as compared with the control. Our findings suggest that both cellular and extracellular changes in gene expression may mediate BPA toxicity in granulosa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrea A Baccarelli
- Human Epigenetics Laboratory, Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York
| | - Abdallah Mansour
- Sheba Medical Center, Ramat-Gan and Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Michal Adir
- Sheba Medical Center, Ramat-Gan and Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ariel Israel
- Department of Family Medicine, Clalit Health Services, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Catherine Racowsky
- Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Russ Hauser
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Valentina Bollati
- EPIGET - Epidemiology, Epigenetics and Toxicology Lab, Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, University of Milan, Milano, Italy
| | - Ronit Machtinger
- Sheba Medical Center, Ramat-Gan and Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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16
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Del Collado M, Andrade GM, Meirelles FV, da Silveira JC, Perecin F. Contributions from the ovarian follicular environment to oocyte function. Anim Reprod 2018; 15:261-270. [PMID: 34178149 PMCID: PMC8202235 DOI: 10.21451/1984-3143-ar2018-0082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The magnitude of oocyte's role for embryo development is categorical. This unique cell contains the machineries and cellular components necessary to remodel male and female chromatin, to sustain early development and to, ultimately, generate a complete and complex individual. However, to gain these competences before fertilization, the oocyte undergoes several morphological, cellular and molecular changes during its lifetime enclosed in the ovarian follicle. This review will briefly revisit how the oocyte orchestrate the follicular cells, and how molecules transit to the oocyte from the innermost (cumulus) and outermost (antrum and granulosa cells) layers surrounding the follicle-enclosed oocyte. Finally, we will discuss the interferences of in vitro culture conditions in the communication of the oocyte with its surrounding cells and the potential strategies to modulate these communication systems to increase oocyte competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maite Del Collado
- Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Gabriella Mamede Andrade
- Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Flávio Vieira Meirelles
- Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Juliano Coelho da Silveira
- Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Felipe Perecin
- Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
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17
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Virant-Klun I, Bauer C, Ståhlberg A, Kubista M, Skutella T. Human oocyte maturation in vitro is improved by co-culture with cumulus cells from mature oocytes. Reprod Biomed Online 2018; 36:508-523. [PMID: 29503212 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Revised: 01/14/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The conventional method of human oocyte maturation in vitro in the presence of gonadotrophins continues to be a relatively low-success procedure in the assisted conception programme owing to suboptimal maturation conditions in the absence of an ovarian 'niche' and poor understanding of this procedure at the molecular level in oocytes. In this study, the gene expression profiles of human oocytes were analysed according to their manner of maturation: in vivo (in the ovaries) or in vitro (matured either by the conventional method or by a new approach - co-cultured with cumulus cells of mature oocytes from the same patient). Our results show that the in-vitro maturation procedure strongly affects the gene expression profile of human oocytes, including several genes involved in transcriptional regulation, embryogenesis, epigenetics, development, and the cell cycle. The in-vitro maturation of oocytes co-cultured with cumulus cells from mature oocytes provides an ovarian 'niche' to some degree, which improves oocyte maturation rates and their gene expression profile to the extent that they are more comparable to oocytes that naturally mature in the ovarian follicle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irma Virant-Klun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | | | - Anders Ståhlberg
- Sahlgrenska Cancer Center, Department of Pathology and Genetics, Institute of Biomedicine, The Sahlgrenska Academy University of Gothenburg, 41390, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Thomas Skutella
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
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18
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Carbenoxolone reduces cyclic nucleotides level, destabilizes maturation promoting factor and induces meiotic exit from diplotene arrest in rat cumulus oocytes complexes cultured in vitro. Biomed Pharmacother 2017; 94:219-230. [PMID: 28763745 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.07.097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Revised: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disruption of gap junction and transfer of cyclic nucleotides to the oocyte lead to meiotic exit from diplotene arrest (EDA) in mammals. In the present study, we examined whether a gap junction blocker, carbenoxolone (CBX) could induce EDA by reducing cyclic nucleotides level and destabilizing maturation promoting factor (MPF) in rat oocytes cultured in vitro. METHODS Diplotene-arrested cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) were collected from ovary of immature female rats after 20 IU pregnant mare's serum gonadotropins (PMSG) for 48h. These diplotene-arrested COCs were incubated with various concentration of CBX for 3h in vitro. The morphological changes, meiotic status of oocyte, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), total nitric oxide (NO), adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP), guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cGMP), cell division cycle 25B (Cdc25B), changes in specific phosphorylation status of cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (Cdk1) and cyclin B1 levels were analyzed. RESULTS CBX induced EDA in a concentration-dependent manner. The iNOS expression, total NO and cyclic nucleotides level were significantly decreased. The reduced cyclic nucleotides level resulted in the decrease of Cdc25B expression level. The decreased Cdc25B was associated with the increased Thr14/Tyr15 phosphorylated Cdk1 level. However, Thr161 phosphorylated Cdk1 as well as cyclin B1 levels were significantly reduced leading to MPF destabilization. The destabilized MPF finally induced EDA in rat COCs cultured in vitro. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that CBX blocked gap junctions interrupted the transfer of cyclic nucleotides to the oocyte. Reduction of cyclic nucleotides level destabilized MPF and induced EDA in vitro. Thus, CBX could be used to induce meiotic maturation under in vitro culture conditions during assisted reproductive technology (ART) programs.
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19
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Ge H, Zhang F, Duan P, Zhu N, Zhang J, Ye F, Shan D, Chen H, Lu X, Zhu C, Ge R, Lin Z. Mitochondrial Uncoupling Protein 2 in human cumulus cells is associated with regulating autophagy and apoptosis, maintaining gap junction integrity and progesterone synthesis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2017; 443:128-137. [PMID: 28089824 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2016] [Revised: 01/11/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
To explore the roles of mitochondrial Uncoupling Protein 2 (UCP2) in cumulus cells (CCs), human CCs were cultured in vitro, and the UCP2 was inhibited by treatment with Genipin, a special UCP inhibitor, or by RNA interference targeting UCP2. No significant differences in adenosine triphosphate levels and the ratio of ADP/ATP were observed after UCP2 inhibition. UCP2 inhibition caused a significant increase in cellular oxidative damage, which was reflected in alterations to several key parameters, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation levels and the ratio of reduced GSH to GSSG. UCP2 blocking resulted in an obvious increase in active Caspase-3, accompanied by the decline of proactive Caspase-3 and a significant increase in the LC3-II/LC3-I ratio, suggesting that UCP2 inhibition triggered cellular apoptosis and autophagy. The mRNA and protein expression of connexin 43 (Cx43), a gap junction channel protein, were significantly reduced after treatment with Genipin or siRNA. The progesterone level in the culture medium was also significantly decreased after UCP2 inhibition. Our data indicated that UCP2 plays highly important roles in mediating ROS production and regulating apoptosis and autophagy, as well as maintaining gap junction integrity and progesterone synthesis, which suggests that UCP2 is involved in the regulation of follicle development and early embryo implantation and implies that it might serve as a potential biomarker for oocyte quality and competency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongshan Ge
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Taizhou People's Hospital, The Fifth Hospital Affiliated Nantong University, Taizhou, Jiangsu Province, 225300, People's Republic of China; The Second Affiliated Hospital and YuYing Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325000, People's Republic of China.
| | - Fan Zhang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and YuYing Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Ping Duan
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and YuYing Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan Zhu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and YuYing Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiayan Zhang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and YuYing Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Feijun Ye
- Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Zhoushan Hospital Affiliated Wenzhou Medical University, Zhejiang Province, 316100, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Shan
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and YuYing Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Chen
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and YuYing Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - XiaoSheng Lu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and YuYing Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - ChunFang Zhu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and YuYing Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Renshan Ge
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and YuYing Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenkun Lin
- The Second Affiliated Hospital and YuYing Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province, 325000, People's Republic of China.
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20
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Chang HM, Qiao J, Leung PCK. Oocyte-somatic cell interactions in the human ovary-novel role of bone morphogenetic proteins and growth differentiation factors. Hum Reprod Update 2016; 23:1-18. [PMID: 27797914 PMCID: PMC5155571 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmw039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Revised: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Initially identified for their capability to induce heterotopic bone formation,
bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are multifunctional growth factors that belong
to the transforming growth factor β superfamily. Using cellular and
molecular genetic approaches, recent studies have implicated intra-ovarian BMPs as
potent regulators of ovarian follicular function. The bi-directional communication
of oocytes and the surrounding somatic cells is mandatory for normal follicle
development and oocyte maturation. This review summarizes the current knowledge on
the physiological role and molecular determinants of these ovarian regulatory
factors within the human germline-somatic regulatory loop. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The regulation of ovarian function remains poorly characterized in humans because,
while the fundamental process of follicular development and oocyte maturation is
highly similar across species, most information on the regulation of ovarian
function is obtained from studies using rodent models. Thus, this review focuses
on the studies that used human biological materials to gain knowledge about human
ovarian biology and disorders and to develop strategies for preventing, diagnosing
and treating these abnormalities. SEARCH METHODS Relevant English-language publications describing the roles of BMPs or growth
differentiation factors (GDFs) in human ovarian biology and phenotypes were
comprehensively searched using PubMed and the Google Scholar database. The
publications included those published since the initial identification of BMPs in
the mammalian ovary in 1999 through July 2016. OUTCOMES Studies using human biological materials have revealed the expression of BMPs,
GDFs and their putative receptors as well as their molecular signaling in the
fundamental cells (oocyte, cumulus/granulosa cells (GCs) and theca/stroma cells)
of the ovarian follicles throughout follicle development. With the availability of
recombinant human BMPs/GDFs and the development of immortalized human cell lines,
functional studies have demonstrated the physiological role of intra-ovarian
BMPs/GDFs in all aspects of ovarian functions, from follicle development to
steroidogenesis, cell–cell communication, oocyte maturation, ovulation and
luteal function. Furthermore, there is crosstalk between these potent ovarian
regulators and the endocrine signaling system. Dysregulation or naturally
occurring mutations within the BMP system may lead to several female reproductive
diseases. The latest development of recombinant BMPs, synthetic BMP inhibitors,
gene therapy and tools for BMP-ligand sequestration has made the BMP pathway a
potential therapeutic target in certain human fertility disorders; however,
further clinical trials are needed. Recent studies have indicated that GDF8 is an
intra-ovarian factor that may play a novel role in regulating ovarian functions in
the human ovary. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Intra-ovarian BMPs/GDFs are critical regulators of folliculogenesis and human
ovarian functions. Any dysregulation or variations in these ligands or their
receptors may affect the related intracellular signaling and influence ovarian
functions, which accounts for several reproductive pathologies and infertility.
Understanding the normal and pathological roles of intra-ovarian BMPs/GDFs,
especially as related to GC functions and follicular fluid levels, will inform
innovative approaches to fertility regulation and improve the diagnosis and
treatment of ovarian disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, 49 North Garden Rd., Haidian District, Beijing 100191, P.R. China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 West 28 Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V5Z 4H4
| | - Jie Qiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, 49 North Garden Rd., Haidian District, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 West 28 Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V5Z 4H4
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21
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Santos JD, Batista RI, Magalhães LC, Paula Jr. AR, Souza SS, Salamone DF, Bhat MH, Teixeira DI, Freitas VJ, Melo LM. Overexpression of hyaluronan synthase 2 and gonadotropin receptors in cumulus cells of goats subjected to one-shot eCG/FSH hormonal treatment for ovarian stimulation. Anim Reprod Sci 2016; 170:15-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2016.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Revised: 03/06/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Sampaio da Silva AM, Bruno JB, de Lima LF, Ribeiro de Sá NA, Lunardi FO, Ferreira ACA, Vieira Correia HH, de Aguiar FLN, Araújo VR, Lobo CH, de Alencar Araripe Moura A, Campello CC, Smitz J, de Figueiredo JR, Ribeiro Rodrigues AP. Connexin 37 and 43 gene and protein expression and developmental competence of isolated ovine secondary follicles cultured in vitro after vitrification of ovarian tissue. Theriogenology 2016; 85:1457-67. [PMID: 26876055 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2015] [Revised: 12/01/2015] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Cryoinjuries caused by vitrification of tissues and organs lead to the loss of membrane proteins that mediate intercellular communications, such as connexins 37 (Cx37) and 43 (Cx43). Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate ovine Cx37 and Cx43 gene and protein expressions and developmental competence by in vitro-cultured secondary follicles retrieved from vitrified ovarian tissue. Ovarian fragments for the same ovary pair were distributed into six treatments: (1) fresh ovarian tissue (FOT); (2) vitrified ovarian tissue (VOT); (3) isolated follicles from fresh ovarian tissue (FIF); (4) isolated follicles from vitrified ovarian tissue; (5) isolated follicles from fresh ovarian tissue followed by in vitro culture (CFIF); (6) isolated follicles from vitrified ovarian tissue followed by in vitro culture (CVIF). In all treatments, Cx37 and Cx43 gene and protein expression patterns were evaluated by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunocytochemistry. In addition, secondary follicles were analyzed according to follicular integrity and growth, apoptosis, and cell proliferation. In vitro-cultured secondary follicles (CFIF and CVIF) were evaluated based on morphology (extruded follicles), antrum formation, and viability. The percentage of intact follicles was higher, whereas antrum formation, oocyte extrusion rate, and follicle viability were lower in CVIF than in CFIF treatment (P < 0.05). Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated biotinylated deoxyuridine triphosphates nick end-labeling assay demonstrated that apoptosis was absent in FIF, whereas follicles from all other treatments showed positive labeling. Cell proliferation index was higher in isolated follicles from vitrified ovarian tissue and CVIF treatments than in follicles from FIF. Expression of Cx43 messenger RNA was lower in CVIF treatment when compared with follicles from all other treatments (P < 0.05). Follicle Cx37 messenger RNA levels did not show alterations in any treatment (P > 0.05). Cx37 and Cx43 immunolabeling was localized mainly on granulosa cells and oocytes, respectively. In conclusion, isolation of ovine secondary follicles could be done successfully after vitrification of ovarian tissue, and the basement membrane integrity remained intact after in vitro culture. Although the gene and protein expression of Cx37 did not change after vitrification of ovarian tissue, Cx43 turned out to be altered in secondary follicles after vitrification and in vitro culture.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jamily Bezerra Bruno
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LAMOFOPA, PPGCV, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Laritza Ferreira de Lima
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LAMOFOPA, PPGCV, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Valdevane Rocha Araújo
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LAMOFOPA, PPGCV, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Carlos Henrique Lobo
- Group of Research in Biology of Reproduction, Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceará UFC, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Arlindo de Alencar Araripe Moura
- Group of Research in Biology of Reproduction, Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceará UFC, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Cláudio Cabral Campello
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LAMOFOPA, PPGCV, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Johan Smitz
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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Importância das comunicações intercelulares para o desenvolvimento de folículos ovarianos. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.recli.2015.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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Kibschull M, Gellhaus A, Carette D, Segretain D, Pointis G, Gilleron J. Physiological roles of connexins and pannexins in reproductive organs. Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 72:2879-98. [PMID: 26100514 PMCID: PMC11114083 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-015-1965-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive organs are complex and well-structured tissues essential to perpetuate the species. In mammals, the male and female reproductive organs vary on their organization, morphology and function. Connectivity between cells in such tissues plays pivotal roles in organogenesis and tissue functions through the regulation of cellular proliferation, migration, differentiation and apoptosis. Connexins and pannexins can be seen as major regulators of these physiological processes. In the present review, we assembled several lines of evidence demonstrating that these two families of proteins are essential for male and female reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Kibschull
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, 25 Orde Street, Toronto, M5T 3H7 Canada
| | - Alexandra Gellhaus
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45122 Essen, Germany
| | - Diane Carette
- UMR S1147, University Paris Descartes, 45 rue des Saints-Pères, 75006 Paris, France
- University of Versailles, 78035 Saint Quentin, France
- INSERM U 1065, University of Nice Sophia-Antipolis, 151 Route Saint-Antoine de Ginestière, BP 2 3194, 06204 Nice Cedex 3, France
| | - Dominique Segretain
- UMR S1147, University Paris Descartes, 45 rue des Saints-Pères, 75006 Paris, France
- University of Versailles, 78035 Saint Quentin, France
| | - Georges Pointis
- INSERM U 1065, University of Nice Sophia-Antipolis, 151 Route Saint-Antoine de Ginestière, BP 2 3194, 06204 Nice Cedex 3, France
| | - Jerome Gilleron
- INSERM U 1065, University of Nice Sophia-Antipolis, 151 Route Saint-Antoine de Ginestière, BP 2 3194, 06204 Nice Cedex 3, France
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Localization and quantitative analysis of Cx43 in porcine oocytes during in vitro maturation. ZYGOTE 2015; 24:364-70. [DOI: 10.1017/s0967199415000271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
SummaryMany studies of the main gap junction protein, Cx43, have been conducted in porcine oocyte research, but they have been limited to investigations of cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs). In this study, we verified Cx43 not in COCs, but in porcine oocytes during maturation, and conducted a quantitative time course analysis. The location and dynamics of Cx43 were examined by immunocytochemistry and western blotting, respectively. COCs were cultured in NCSU23 medium and processed for immunocytochemistry and western blotting at 0, 14, 28, and 42 h after denuding. A Cx43 signal was detected on oolemmas, transzonal projections and the surface of zona pellucidae. Western blotting showed that Cx43 band density increased from 0 to 14 h, and gradually decreased thereafter. Our results clarified that Cx43 is localized in the ooplasmic membrane through zona pellucidae and its level changes over time during culture in porcine oocytes.
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El-Hayek S, Clarke HJ. Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Increases Gap Junctional Communication Between Somatic and Germ-Line Follicular Compartments During Murine Oogenesis. Biol Reprod 2015; 93:47. [PMID: 26063870 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.129569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 06/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Germ cells develop in intimate contact and communication with somatic cells of the gonad. In female mammals, oocyte development depends crucially on gap junctions that couple it to the surrounding somatic granulosa cells of the follicle, yet the mechanisms that regulate this essential intercellular communication remain incompletely understood. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) drives the terminal stage of follicular development. We found that FSH increases the steady-state levels of mRNAs encoding the principal connexins that constitute gap junctions and cadherins that mediate cell attachment. This increase occurs both in granulosa cells, which express the FSH-receptor, and in oocytes, which do not. FSH also increased the number of transzonal projections that provide the sites of granulosa cell-oocyte contact. Consistent with increased connexin expression, FSH increased gap junctional communication between granulosa cells and between the oocyte and granulosa cells, and it accelerated oocyte development. These results demonstrate that FSH regulates communication between the female germ cell and its somatic microenvironment. We propose that FSH-regulated gap junctional communication ensures that differentiation processes occurring in distinct cellular compartments within the follicle are precisely coordinated to ensure production of a fertilizable egg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephany El-Hayek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Hugh J Clarke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Developmental competence of different quality bovine oocytes retrieved through ovum pick-up following in vitro maturation and fertilization. Animal 2015; 9:1979-85. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731115001226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Chang HM, Cheng JC, Taylor E, Leung PCK. Oocyte-derived BMP15 but not GDF9 down-regulates connexin43 expression and decreases gap junction intercellular communication activity in immortalized human granulosa cells. Mol Hum Reprod 2014; 20:373-83. [PMID: 24413384 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gau001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In the ovary, connexin-coupled gap junctions in granulosa cells play crucial roles in follicular and oocyte development as well as in corpus luteum formation. Our previous work has shown that theca cell-derived bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)4 and BMP7 decrease gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) activity via the down-regulation of connexin43 (Cx43) expression in immortalized human granulosa cells. However, the effects of oocyte-derived growth factors on Cx43 expression remain to be elucidated. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of oocyte-derived growth differentiation factor (GDF)9 and BMP15 on the expression of Cx43 in a human granulosa cell line, SVOG. We also examined the effect relative to GJIC activity and investigated the potential mechanisms of action. In SVOG cells, treatment with BMP15 but not GDF9 significantly decreased Cx43 mRNA and protein levels and GJIC activity. These suppressive effects, along with the induction of Smad1/5/8 phosphorylation, were attenuated by co-treatment with a BMP type I receptor inhibitor, dorsomorphin. Furthermore, knockdown of the central component of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily signaling pathway, Smad4, using small interfering RNA reversed the suppressive effects of BMP15 on Cx43 expression and GJIC activity. The suppressive effects of BMP15 on Cx43 expression were further confirmed in primary human granulosa-lutein cells obtained from infertile patients undergoing an in vitro fertilization procedure. These findings suggest that oocyte-derived BMP15 decreases GJIC activity between human granulosa cells by down-regulating Cx43 expression, most likely via a Smad-dependent signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Child & Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 west 28th Ave, Vancouver, BC, Canada V5Z 4H4
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Nielsen MS, Axelsen LN, Sorgen PL, Verma V, Delmar M, Holstein-Rathlou NH. Gap junctions. Compr Physiol 2013; 2:1981-2035. [PMID: 23723031 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c110051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 289] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Gap junctions are essential to the function of multicellular animals, which require a high degree of coordination between cells. In vertebrates, gap junctions comprise connexins and currently 21 connexins are known in humans. The functions of gap junctions are highly diverse and include exchange of metabolites and electrical signals between cells, as well as functions, which are apparently unrelated to intercellular communication. Given the diversity of gap junction physiology, regulation of gap junction activity is complex. The structure of the various connexins is known to some extent; and structural rearrangements and intramolecular interactions are important for regulation of channel function. Intercellular coupling is further regulated by the number and activity of channels present in gap junctional plaques. The number of connexins in cell-cell channels is regulated by controlling transcription, translation, trafficking, and degradation; and all of these processes are under strict control. Once in the membrane, channel activity is determined by the conductive properties of the connexin involved, which can be regulated by voltage and chemical gating, as well as a large number of posttranslational modifications. The aim of the present article is to review our current knowledge on the structure, regulation, function, and pharmacology of gap junctions. This will be supported by examples of how different connexins and their regulation act in concert to achieve appropriate physiological control, and how disturbances of connexin function can lead to disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morten Schak Nielsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and The Danish National Research Foundation Centre for Cardiac Arrhythmia, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Wang HX, Gillio-Meina C, Chen S, Gong XQ, Li TY, Bai D, Kidder GM. The canonical WNT2 pathway and FSH interact to regulate gap junction assembly in mouse granulosa cells. Biol Reprod 2013; 89:39. [PMID: 23843235 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.109801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
WNTs are extracellular signaling molecules that exert their actions through receptors of the frizzled (FZD) family. Previous work indicated that WNT2 regulates cell proliferation in mouse granulosa cells acting through CTNNB1 (beta-catenin), a key component in canonical WNT signaling. In other cells, WNT signaling has been shown to regulate expression of connexin43 (CX43), a gap junction protein, as well as gap junction assembly. Since previous work demonstrated that CX43 is also essential in ovarian follicle development, the objective of this study was to determine if WNT2 regulates CX43 expression and/or gap-junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) in granulosa cells. WNT2 knockdown via siRNA markedly reduced CX43 expression and GJIC. CX43 expression, the extent of CX43-containing gap junction membrane, and GJIC were also reduced by CTNNB1 transient knockdown. CTNNB1 is mainly localized to the membranes between granulosa cells but disappeared from this location after WNT2 knockdown. Furthermore, CTNNB1 knockdown interfered with the ability of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) to promote the mobilization of CX43 into gap junctions. We propose that the WNT2/CTNNB1 pathway regulates CX43 expression and GJIC in granulosa cells by modulating CTNNB1 stability and localization in adherens junctions, and that this is essential for FSH stimulation of GJIC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Xing Wang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
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Chang HM, Cheng JC, Leung PCK. Theca-derived BMP4 and BMP7 down-regulate connexin43 expression and decrease gap junction intercellular communication activity in immortalized human granulosa cells. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2013; 98:E437-45. [PMID: 23386650 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2012-3851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Connexin43 (Cx43)-coupled gap junctions in granulosa cells play important roles in follicular and oocyte development and may be modulated by theca cell-derived bone morphogenic protein (BMP) 4 and BMP7. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to examine the effects of BMP4 and BMP7 on Cx43 expression in human granulosa cells and its potential mediation by the Smad-dependent pathway. DESIGN An immortalized human granulosa (SVOG) cell was used to investigate Cx43 expression and gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) activity after exposure to BMP4 and BMP7. A BMP type I inhibitor, dorsomorphin, and small interfering RNAs targeting Smad4 were used to verify the specificity of the effects. SETTING The study was conducted in an academic center. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Extracts were prepared from cultured cells, the Cx43 mRNA levels were examined using RT-quantitative real-time PCR, and the levels of Cx43 protein and phosphorylated Smad1/5/8 were assayed using Western blot analyses. GJIC activities between SVOG cells were evaluated using a scrape loading and dye transfer assay. RESULTS Treatment with BMP4 and BMP7 significantly decreased Cx43 mRNA and protein levels, as well as GJIC activities. These suppressive effects were attenuated by cotreatment with the BMP type I receptor inhibitor dorsomorphin. Furthermore, Smad4 knockdown reversed the effects of BMP4 and BMP7 on Cx43 expression. CONCLUSION Theca cell-derived BMP4 and BMP7 down-regulate Cx43 expression and decrease GJIC activity in human granulosa cells. Our findings indicate that this biological effect is most likely mediated by a Smad-dependent pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Palma GA, Argañaraz ME, Barrera AD, Rodler D, Mutto AÁ, Sinowatz F. Biology and biotechnology of follicle development. ScientificWorldJournal 2012; 2012:938138. [PMID: 22666170 PMCID: PMC3366219 DOI: 10.1100/2012/938138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2011] [Accepted: 12/13/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Growth and development of ovarian follicles require a series of coordinated events that induce morphological and functional changes within the follicle, leading to cell differentiation and oocyte development. The preantral early antral follicle transition is the stage of follicular development during which gonadotropin dependence is obtained and the progression into growing or atresia of the follicle is made. Follicular growth during this period is tightly regulated by oocyte-granulosatheca cell interactions. A cluster of early expressed genes is required for normal folliculogenesis. Granulosa cell factors stimulate the recruitment of theca cells from cortical stromal cells. Thecal factors promote granulosa cell proliferation and suppress granulosa cell apoptosis. Cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions influence the production of growth factors in the different follicular compartments (oocyte, granulosa, and theca cells). Several autocrine and paracrine factors are involved in follicular growth and differentiation; their activity is present even at the time of ovulation, decreasing the gap junction communication, and stimulating the theca cell proliferation. In addition, the identification of the factors that promote follicular growth from the preantral stage to the small antral stage may provide important information for the identification for assisted reproduction techniques.
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Potolicchio I, Cigliola V, Velazquez-Garcia S, Klee P, Valjevac A, Kapic D, Cosovic E, Lepara O, Hadzovic-Dzuvo A, Mornjacovic Z, Meda P. Connexin-dependent signaling in neuro-hormonal systems. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2011; 1818:1919-36. [PMID: 22001400 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2011.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2011] [Revised: 09/14/2011] [Accepted: 09/23/2011] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The advent of multicellular organisms was accompanied by the development of short- and long-range chemical signalling systems, including those provided by the nervous and endocrine systems. In turn, the cells of these two systems have developed mechanisms for interacting with both adjacent and distant cells. With evolution, such mechanisms have diversified to become integrated in a complex regulatory network, whereby individual endocrine and neuro-endocrine cells sense the state of activity of their neighbors and, accordingly, regulate their own level of functioning. A consistent feature of this network is the expression of connexin-made channels between the (neuro)hormone-producing cells of all endocrine glands and secretory regions of the central nervous system so far investigated in vertebrates. This review summarizes the distribution of connexins in the mammalian (neuro)endocrine systems, and what we know about the participation of these proteins on hormone secretion, the life of the producing cells, and the action of (neuro)hormones on specific targets. The data gathered since the last reviews on the topic are summarized, with particular emphasis on the roles of Cx36 in the function of the insulin-producing beta cells of the endocrine pancreas, and of Cx40 in that of the renin-producing juxta-glomerular epithelioid cells of the kidney cortex. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: The Communicating junctions, composition, structure and characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Potolicchio
- Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, University of Geneva Medical School, Switzerland
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Abstract
The appearance of multicellular organisms imposed the development of several mechanisms for cell-to-cell communication, whereby different types of cells coordinate their function. Some of these mechanisms depend on the intercellular diffusion of signal molecules in the extracellular spaces, whereas others require cell-to-cell contact. Among the latter mechanisms, those provided by the proteins of the connexin family are widespread in most tissues. Connexin signaling is achieved via direct exchanges of cytosolic molecules between adjacent cells at gap junctions, for cell-to-cell coupling, and possibly also involves the formation of membrane "hemi-channels," for the extracellular release of cytosolic signals, direct interactions between connexins and other cell proteins, and coordinated influence on the expression of multiple genes. Connexin signaling appears to be an obligatory attribute of all multicellular exocrine and endocrine glands. Specifically, the experimental evidence we review here points to a direct participation of the Cx36 isoform in the function of the insulin-producing β-cells of the endocrine pancreas, and of the Cx40 isoform in the function of the renin-producing juxtaglomerular epithelioid cells of the kidney cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Bosco
- Department of Surgery, University of Geneva Medical School, Geneva, Switzerland
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35
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Durlej M, Knapczyk-Stwora K, Duda M, Kopera-Sobota I, Hejmej A, Bilinska B, Slomczynska M. Prenatal and neonatal exposure to the antiandrogen flutamide alters connexin 43 gene expression in adult porcine ovary. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2011; 40:19-29. [PMID: 20961722 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2010.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2010] [Revised: 08/07/2010] [Accepted: 08/09/2010] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Connexin 43 (Cx43) is the predominant gap junction protein within porcine ovary and is required for proper follicle and corpus luteum (CL) development. Recent research suggests maternally or neonatally mediated effects of antiandrogens on reproductive function during adulthood, notably those dependent on gap junctional communication. The current study was conducted to determine whether late gestational or neonatal exposure to the antiandrogen flutamide influences Cx43 gene expression in the adult porcine ovary. Flutamide was injected into pregnant gilts between days 80 and 88 of gestation and into female piglets between days 2 and 10 posnatally. After animals reached sexual maturity, the ovaries were collected from treated and nontreated (control) pigs. Expression of Cx43 mRNA and protein was determined for preantral and antral follicles and for CLs. In addition, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) expression and progesterone concentration were determined for luteal tissues. In preantral follicles, Cx43 mRNA was down-regulated (P < 0.01) following maternal and neonatal flutamide exposure. In large antral follicles, Cx43 mRNA was up-regulated (P < 0.01) after neonatal flutamide administration. Immunofluorescence showed that Cx43 expression decreased (P < 0.001) in preantral follicles and increased (P < 0.001) in large antral follicles following flutamide exposure. In luteal tissues, Cx43 and 3β-HSD expression and progesterone concentration decreased (P < 0.01) after postnatal flutamide treatment. Overall, these results suggest the involvement of androgens in the regulation of Cx43 expression in pig ovary. Moreover, alteration of Cx43 expression by the administration of flutamide during particular prenatal and neonatal time periods may affect porcine follicle development, as well as CL formation and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Durlej
- Department of Endocrinology and Tissue Culture, Institute of Zoology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland.
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Kidder GM, Vanderhyden BC. Bidirectional communication between oocytes and follicle cells: ensuring oocyte developmental competence. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2010; 88:399-413. [PMID: 20555408 DOI: 10.1139/y10-009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 196] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Female fertility is determined to a large extent by the quality (developmental competence) of the oocyte as reflected in its ability to undergo meiosis, be fertilized, and give rise to a healthy embryo. Growth of the mammalian oocyte is coordinated with that of the follicle that encloses it by the actions of signals that pass in both directions between the germline and somatic components. This review summarizes what is known about the roles played by 2 different modes of intrafollicular signalling in oogenesis: paracrine factors activating receptors on the opposite cell type, and direct sharing of small molecules throughout the follicle via gap junction channels. Recent evidence indicates that these 2 modes of signalling interact to regulate oocyte growth and granulosa cell proliferation and that defects in either can contribute to female infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald M Kidder
- Departments of Physiology and Pharmacology, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, and Paediatrics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada.
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Kopera I, Durlej M, Hejmej A, Knapczyk-Stwora K, Duda M, Slomczynska M, Koziorowski M, Bilinska B. Effects of pre- and postnatal exposure to flutamide on connexin 43 expression in testes and ovaries of prepubertal pigs. Eur J Histochem 2010; 54:e15. [PMID: 20558338 PMCID: PMC3167298 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2010.e15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2009] [Revised: 02/11/2010] [Accepted: 02/11/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to show whether the connexin43 (Cx43) expression in gonads is affected by an anti-androgen action. To test this, pigs were prenatally (on gestational days 20-28 and 80-88; GD20, GD80), and postnatally (on days 2-10 after birth; PD2) exposed to flutamide that was given in five doses, every second day and its effect was observed in prepubertal gilts and boars. Morphology and expression of Cx43 was investigated in testes and ovaries by means of routine histology, immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, and RT-PCR, respectively. Qualitative analysis of immunohistochemical staining for Cx43 was confirmed by quantitative image analysis in which the staining intensity was expressed as relative optical density of diaminobenzidine deposits. There were statistically significant differences in Cx43 signal intensity between interstitial tissue of control and GD20 pigs (p less than 0.01), between seminiferous tubules of control and PD2 boars (p less than 0.01), between granulosa cells of preantral follicles of control and GD20 and PD2 pigs (p less than 0.01 and p less than 0.05, respectively), and between theca cells of control and GD80 and PD2 gilts (p less than 0.01). In Western blotting Cx43 appeared as a band of 43 kDa, whereas the size of the PCR-amplified product was 232 bp in all gonad tissue samples. Since we demonstrated changes in gonad morphology and in the expression of Cx43 at the level of protein of prepubertal boars and gilts, it seems possible that flutamide through blocking androgen action, causes delayed gonadal maturation in later postnatal life and, among other factors, may be involved in the regulation of Cx43 gene expression in pig gonads.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Kopera
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
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Domingues SF, Caldas-Bussiere MC, Petretski MD, Ohashi OM, Lima JS, Santos RR, Cordeiro MS, Gomes de Castro PH. Effects of follicular phase and oocyte–cumulus complexes quality on the protein profile and in vitro oocyte meiosis competence in Cebus apella. Fertil Steril 2010; 93:1662-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.05.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2008] [Revised: 05/10/2009] [Accepted: 05/11/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Tong D, Colley D, Thoo R, Li TY, Plante I, Laird DW, Bai D, Kidder GM. Oogenesis defects in a mutant mouse model of oculodentodigital dysplasia. Dis Model Mech 2009; 2:157-67. [PMID: 19259389 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.000935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2008] [Accepted: 12/08/2008] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The essential role of connexin43 (Cx43) during oogenesis has been demonstrated by the severe germ cell deficiency and arrested folliculogenesis observed in Cx43 knockout mice. Recently, another mutant mouse strain became available (Gja1(Jrt)/+) that carries the dominant loss-of-function Cx43 mutation, Cx43(G60S). Gja1(Jrt)/+ mice display features of the human disease oculodentodigital dysplasia (ODDD), which is caused by mutations in the GJA1 gene. We used this new mutant strain to study how a disease-linked Cx43 mutant affects oogenesis. We found that female mutant mice are subfertile with significantly reduced mating success and small litters. The phosphorylated species of the Cx43 protein are reduced in the mutant ovaries in association with impaired trafficking and assembly of gap junctions in the membranes of granulosa cells, confirming that the mutant protein acts dominantly on its wild-type counterpart. Correspondingly, although starting with a normal abundance of germ cells, ovaries of the mutant mice contain significantly fewer pre-ovulatory follicles and do not respond to superovulation by gonadotropins, which is at least partially the result of reduced proliferation and increased apoptosis of granulosa cells. We conclude that the Gja1(Jrt) mutation has a dominant negative effect on Cx43 function in the ovary, rendering the females subfertile. Given these findings, closer examination of reproductive function in ODDD human females is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Tong
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
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40
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Ratchford AM, Esguerra CR, Moley KH. Decreased oocyte-granulosa cell gap junction communication and connexin expression in a type 1 diabetic mouse model. Mol Endocrinol 2008; 22:2643-54. [PMID: 18829945 PMCID: PMC2626198 DOI: 10.1210/me.2007-0495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2007] [Accepted: 09/25/2008] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In women, type 1 diabetes is associated with an increased risk of poor prenatal outcomes such as congenital anomalies and early miscarriage. In murine models of type 1 diabetes, impaired oocyte meiotic maturation, abnormal oocyte metabolism, and increased granulosa cell apoptosis have been noted. because gap junction communication is critical for the regulation of oocyte growth and meiotic maturation, we investigated the level of communication between the oocyte and surrounding cumulus cells in a streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetic B6SJL/F1 mouse model and the expression of gap junction proteins known as connexins. Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching analyses of cumulus cell-enclosed oocytes (CEOs) from diabetic mice showed a 60% decrease in communication as compared with CEOs from nondiabetic mice. Real-time RT-PCR analyses confirmed the presence of Cx26, Cx37, and Cx57 mRNA and revealed a significant decrease in Cx37 mRNA expression in oocytes from diabetic mice compared with nondiabetic mice. Western analyses detected Cx26 expression in CEO but not denuded oocyte (DO) samples, and Cx37 in DO samples. Cx26 protein levels were decreased by 78% in CEOs from diabetic mice, and Cx37 protein levels were decreased 36% in DOs from diabetic mice. This decrease in connexin expression and gap junction communication in CEOs from diabetic mice may be responsible for the impaired oocyte meiotic maturation and poor pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann M Ratchford
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
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41
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Rodrigues P, Limback D, McGinnis LK, Plancha CE, Albertini DF. Oogenesis: Prospects and challenges for the future. J Cell Physiol 2008; 216:355-65. [PMID: 18452183 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.21473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Oogenesis serves a singular role in the reproductive success of plants and animals. Of their remarkable differentiation pathway what stands out is the ability of oocytes to transform from a single cell into the totipotent lineages that seed the early embryo. As our understanding that commonalities between diverse organisms at the genetic, cellular and molecular levels are conserved to achieve successful reproduction, the notion that embryogenesis presupposes oogenesis has entered the day-to-day parlance of regenerative medicine and stem cell biology. With emphasis on the mammalian oocyte, this review will cover (1) current concepts regarding the birth, survival and growth of oocytes that depends on complex patterns of cell communication between germ line and soma, (2) the notion of "maternal inheritance" from a genetic and epigenetic perspective, and (3) the relative value of model systems with reference to current clinical and biotechnology applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Rodrigues
- Department Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, USA
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Prost G, Bernier-Valentin F, Munari-Silem Y, Selmi-Ruby S, Rousset B. Connexin-32 acts as a downregulator of growth of thyroid gland. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2008; 294:E291-9. [PMID: 18042666 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00281.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Thyroid epithelial cells communicate through gap junctions formed from connexin (Cx)32, Cx43, and Cx26. We previously reported that reexpression of Cx32 in "gap junction-deficient" FRTL-5 and FRT thyroid cell lines induces a reduction of cell proliferation rate and an activation of expression of cell differentiation. The present study aimed at determining whether Cx32 could exert similar regulatory functions in vivo. We investigated morphological and functional characteristics of thyroid gland of Cx32-deficient mice (Cx32-KO), mice overexpressing Cx32 selectively in the thyroid (Cx32-T+), and Cx32-KO mice with a thyroid-selective Cx32 complementation obtained by crossing Cx32-KO and Cx32-T+ mice. In basal conditions, Cx32-KO mice did not present any detectable thyroid alteration, whereas Cx32-T+ mice showed a thyroid hypoplasia (20% reduction) associated with a slight increase in thyroid functional activity. Under thyrotropin stimulation (following sodium perchlorate treatment), Cx32-KO mice developed a larger goiter (< or =65% increase) than wild-type littermates, whereas Cx32-T+ mice exhibited the same thyroid hyperplasia as wild-type mice. Restoration of Cx32 expression in the thyroid of Cx32-KO mice abrogated the thyroid growth increase related to Cx32 deficiency. All together, these data show that Cx32 acts as a downregulator of growth of thyroid gland; an excess of Cx32 limits growth of thyroid cells in the basal state, whereas a lack of Cx32 confers an additional growth potential to TSH-stimulated thyroid cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaëlle Prost
- INSERM UMR 664, Faculté de Médecine Laennec, 7 rue Guillaume Paradin, Lyon Cedex 08, France
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Fisch JD, Keskintepe L, Sher G. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist/antagonist conversion with estrogen priming in low responders with prior in vitro fertilization failure. Fertil Steril 2007; 89:342-7. [PMID: 17562336 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2007.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2006] [Revised: 03/02/2007] [Accepted: 03/02/2007] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist/antagonist conversion with estrogen priming (AACEP) in low responders with prior IVF failure. DESIGN Descriptive. SETTING Private practice. PATIENT(S) Women aged <or=42 with prior IVF attempts in which all embryos were <7 cells or >20% fragmentation on day 3 (n = 137; <38: n = 63; 38-42: n = 74). In addition to unexplained poor response to stimulation (n = 52), diagnoses included elevated follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH >9.0 mIU/mL; n = 40), advanced age (>41 years; n = 26), endometriosis (III-IV; n = 12), and decreased ovarian reserve (AFC <5; n = 7). INTERVENTION(S) Patients received sequential GnRH agonist, low-dose GnRH antagonist, and estradiol valerate followed by recombinant FSH, 600 IU/day (n = 72) or 750 IU/day (n = 65). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Pregnancy, ongoing gestation, implantation rates. RESULT(S) Although women aged <38 years and those on 600 IU/day produced more mature eggs and fertilized embryos than women aged 38 to 42 years, there were no differences in peak estradiol, endometrial lining, or embryos transferred. Outcomes were similar for all patients regardless of age or FSH dosage. Ongoing gestation rates were 27% (37 out of 137) for all patients, 25% (16 out of 63) for age <38 years, and 28% (21 out of 74) for ages 38 to 42 years. CONCLUSION(S) Women aged <or=42 years who are candidates for oocyte donation may still achieve pregnancy using their own eggs with the AACEP protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey D Fisch
- Sher Institute for Reproductive Medicine, Las Vegas, Nevada 89109, USA.
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44
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Willingham-Rocky LA, Golding MC, Wright JM, Kraemer DC, Westhusin ME, Burghardt RC. Cloning of GJA1 (connexin43) and its expression in canine ovarian follicles throughout the estrous cycle. Gene Expr Patterns 2007; 7:66-71. [PMID: 16829210 DOI: 10.1016/j.modgep.2006.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2006] [Revised: 05/07/2006] [Accepted: 05/25/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
GJA1 (also known as connexin43 or Cx43) is the most abundant gap junction protein in mammalian tissues including the ovary. Here, it facilitates intercellular communication among granulosa cells and growing oocytes, thereby connecting the developing gamete to the hormonal axis as well as to the essential network of supporting granulosa cells. To date, the pattern of follicular GJA1 expression has not yet been defined for canines, a species with unique reproductive physiology including delays in follicle development, ovulation, oocyte maturation and fertilization. Here, we report the complete mRNA sequence for canine GJA1 and identify not only increases (P<0.05) in GJA1 mRNA expression in follicles at the secondary stage and larger, but also differences in expression levels between estrous cycle stages in both secondary and antral stage follicles. Expression of GJA1 mRNA in secondary follicles during proestrus was higher than in anestrus or estrus (P<0.01), and at diestrus (P<0.10). Antral follicles obtained during estrus expressed lower levels of GJA1 mRNA than any other cycle stage (P<0.01). GJA1 mRNA expression in primary and large antral follicles was similar across the estrous cycle. Despite the extensive length of the canine estrous cycle as compared with that of other mammals, the GJA1 mRNA and protein expression profiles are not significantly different from those reported for other species and suggests that mechanisms regulating GJA1 transcription are not likely to contribute to the extended delays in follicle and oocyte development in the dog.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauri A Willingham-Rocky
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
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45
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Borowczyk E, Johnson ML, Bilski JJ, Borowicz PP, Redmer DA, Reynolds LP, Grazul-Bilska AT. Expression of gap junctional connexins 26, 32, and 43 mRNA in ovarian preovulatory follicles and corpora lutea in sheep. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2006; 84:1011-20. [PMID: 17218967 DOI: 10.1139/y06-054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the current study was to evaluate the expression of connexins (Cx)26, Cx32, and Cx43 mRNA in granulosa and theca cells during the peri-ovulatory period (experiment 1) and in the corpus luteum (CL) during the estrous cycle (experiment 2) and during prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF)-induced luteal regression (experiment 3) in FSH-treated ewes. In experiment 1, Cx26, Cx32, and Cx43 mRNA was expressed in granulosa and theca cells, and expression of Cx32 and Cx43 mRNA, but not Cx26, was greater (p<0.001) in granulosa than in theca cells throughout the peri-ovulatory period. Expression of Cx43 mRNA in granulosa and theca cells decreased (p<0.01) 24 h after hCG treatment. In experiment 2, expression of Cx26 mRNA in the CL tended to be greater (p<0.06) on day 10 than on days 5 or 15, but expression of Cx43 mRNA was greater (p<0.01) on day 5 than on days 10 and 15 of the estrous cycle. In experiment 3, expression of Cx26, but not Cx32 or Cx43 mRNA decreased (p<0.001) during PGF-induced luteal regression. In all 3 experiments, expression of Cx32 mRNA was much less than Cx26 and Cx43 mRNA. Moreover, Cx32 mRNA expression was unchanged during the peri-ovulatory period or during several stages of luteal development and PGF-induced regression of the CL. Thus, we have shown that the mRNA expression pattern of Cx26 and Cx43 changes during peri-ovulatory period and during several stages of the luteal development. This suggests that Cx26 and Cx43 play a role in ovarian tissue remodeling during the critical time around ovulation and throughout luteal tissue growth, differentiation, and regression in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Borowczyk
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105, USA
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46
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Sela-Abramovich S, Edry I, Galiani D, Nevo N, Dekel N. Disruption of gap junctional communication within the ovarian follicle induces oocyte maturation. Endocrinology 2006; 147:2280-6. [PMID: 16439460 DOI: 10.1210/en.2005-1011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Meiotically arrested mammalian oocytes are stimulated to resume meiosis by LH. This response, which can be reversed by elevation of intraoocyte cAMP levels, is associated with interruption of gap junctional communication (GJC) within the ovarian follicle. In the present study, we examined the hypothesis that disruption of GJC within the ovarian follicle is sufficient for induction of oocyte maturation. For this purpose, we incubated rat follicle-enclosed oocytes with carbenoxolone (CBX), a known blocker of gap junctions. We found that this selective disruptor of GJC promoted maturation of almost all the follicle-enclosed oocytes after 5 h of incubation; this response was also obtained by a transient (2 h) exposure to this agent. CBX-induced oocyte maturation was accompanied by a substantial decrease in intraoocyte concentrations of cAMP that was not associated with elevated activity of type 3A phosphodiesterase (PDE3A). The effect of CBX on reinitiation of meiosis was blocked by isobutylmethylxanthine, a phosphodiesterase inhibitor. Unlike LH, CBX did not activate MAPK in the follicular cells, and inhibition of the MAPK signaling pathway by means of UO126 did not prevent the resumption of meiosis. Injection of CBX into the ovarian bursa of intact animals stimulated maturation in 30% of the oocytes, whereas no maturation was observed in the contralateral ovary injected with PBS. We conclude that, because experimentally induced breakdown of communication within the ovarian follicle is associated with a drop in intraoocyte cAMP concentrations and results in resumption of meiosis, this could be the physiological mechanism employed by LH to stimulate oocyte maturation.
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47
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Simon AM, Chen H, Jackson CL. Cx37 and Cx43 localize to zona pellucida in mouse ovarian follicles. CELL COMMUNICATION & ADHESION 2006; 13:61-77. [PMID: 16613781 DOI: 10.1080/15419060600631748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
In the ovarian follicle, granulosa cells adjacent to the oocyte extend processes through the zona pellucida matrix, and these projections establish gap junctions both with the oocyte and with neighboring transzonal projections. The identity of connexins contributing to gap junctions between transzonal projections has not been extensively studied. Here, we examined the expression pattern of Cx37 and Cx43 in mouse zona pellucida using multiple connexin-specific antibodies. Immunofluorescence staining revealed abundant Cx37 and Cx43 puncta within the zona pellucida of both preantral and antral follicles. Cx37 persisted in the zona pellucida of mature follicles up to 5 h after an ovulatory stimulus whereas Cx43 was reduced in the zona pellucida by 3 h after an ovulatory stimulus. We suggest that in addition to its role in oocyte-granulosa cell communication, Cx37 could enable a distinct communication pathway between those granulosa cells that are in direct contact with the oocyte.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander M Simon
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, 85724, USA.
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48
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Akiyama M, Ishida N, Ogawa T, Yogo K, Takeya T. Molecular cloning and functional analysis of a novel Cx43 partner protein CIP150. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2005; 335:1264-71. [PMID: 16112082 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2005.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2005] [Accepted: 08/03/2005] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
We identified and cloned a novel gene encoding a partner protein, CIP150, of connexin 43 (Cx43). CIP150 associates with Cx43 through its carboxyl terminal domain. Conversely, a region consisting of 16 amino acids in the juxtamembrane region (amino acids 227-242) in the carboxyl terminal tail of Cx43 was identified to be responsible for the association. A variant of Cx43 lacking this region was expressed only in a nonphosphorylated form and appeared to lose the capacity to localize to the region of cell-cell contact and dye transfer activity. When the expression of CIP150 was suppressed using small interfering RNA, the localization to the plasma membrane as well as dye transfer activity of Cx43 was significantly reduced. These results suggest that the newly identified domain is essential for the proper phosphorylation and localization of Cx43, and CIP150 is a novel partner protein targeting this domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motofusa Akiyama
- Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayama, Ikoma, Nara 630-0129, Japan
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Pant D, Reynolds LP, Luther JS, Borowicz PP, Stenbak TM, Bilski JJ, Weigl RM, Lopes F, Petry K, Johnson ML, Redmer DA, Grazul-Bilska AT. Expression of connexin 43 and gap junctional intercellular communication in the cumulus-oocyte complex in sheep. Reproduction 2005; 129:191-200. [PMID: 15695613 DOI: 10.1530/rep.1.00434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
To evaluate the effects of FSH, LH and/or cAMP on expression of connexin 43 (Cx43) in the ovine cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) and gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) of cumulus cells, two experiments were carried out. In experiment 1, Cx43 was immunodetected in the COC, before or after maturation, obtained from non-treated or FSH-treated ewes. The expression of Cx43 in the COC was greater (P < 0.01) on day 16 than on day 15 of the estrous cycle. In vivo FSH treatment decreased (P < 0.02) Cx43 expression on day 16 but not on day 15 of the estrous cycle. In experiment 2, intact COCs or isolated cumulus cells obtained from small and large follicles from FSH-treated ewes were cultured with or without FSH, LH or cAMP agonist and evaluated for GJIC by laser cytometry. For large follicles, the basal rate of GJIC was greater (P < 0.01) for cumulus cells in intact COCs than for isolated cumulus cells. FSH increased (P < 0.04) GJIC in cumulus cells in intact COCs and tended to increase (P < 0.1) GJIC in isolated cumulus cells from small follicles but decreased (P < 0.01) GJIC in cumulus cells in intact COCs from large follicles. LH also increased (P < 0.01) GJIC in isolated cumulus cells from small follicles but decreased GJIC in intact COCs (P < 0.01) and isolated cumulus cells (P < 0.02) from large follicles. cAMP increased (P < 0.01) the GJIC in both intact COCs and cumulus cells from small and large follicles. These results indicate that day of estrous cycle, stage of maturation and duration of FSH treatment affect expression of Cx43 in ovine COCs. In intact COCs, GJIC in cumulus cells was enhanced, probably due to the presence of the oocyte. In addition, the effects of FSH and LH, but not cAMP, on GJIC of cumulus cells depended on the stage of follicular development and on the presence of the oocyte.
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Affiliation(s)
- Disha Pant
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105, USA
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50
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Pfeifer I, Anderson C, Werner R, Oltra E. Redefining the structure of the mouse connexin43 gene: selective promoter usage and alternative splicing mechanisms yield transcripts with different translational efficiencies. Nucleic Acids Res 2004; 32:4550-62. [PMID: 15328367 PMCID: PMC516064 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkh792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The connexin43 (cx43) gene was originally described as consisting of two exons, one coding for most of the 5'-untranslated region (5'-UTR), and the other for the protein sequence and 3'-UTR. We now report that in mouse four additional exons are expressed, all coding for novel 5'-UTRs. Altogether, we found nine different cx43 mRNA species (GenBank accession numbers NM010288, and AY427554 through AY427561) generated by differential promoter usage and alternative splicing mechanisms. The relative abundance of these different mRNAs varied with the tissue source. In addition, the different transcripts showed varying translational efficiencies in several cell lines, indicating the presence of cis-RNA elements that regulate cx43 translation. We propose that it is the promoter driving the expression of the cx43 gene that determines exon choice in the downstream splicing events in a cell-type-dependent fashion. This in turn will affect the translation efficiency of the transcript orchestrating the events that lead to the final expression profile of cx43. Since a similar organization of the cx43 gene was also observed in rat it is likely that the complex regulation of cx43 expression involving transcription, splicing and translation mechanisms is a common trait conserved during evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Pfeifer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami School of Medicine, PO Box 016129, Miami, FL 33101, USA
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