1
|
Restrepo LJ, Baehrecke EH. Regulation and Functions of Autophagy During Animal Development. J Mol Biol 2024; 436:168473. [PMID: 38311234 PMCID: PMC11260256 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2024.168473] [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: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Autophagy is used to degrade cytoplasmic materials, and is critical to maintain cell and organismal health in diverse animals. Here we discuss the regulation, utilization and impact of autophagy on development, including roles in oogenesis, spermatogenesis and embryogenesis in animals. We also describe how autophagy influences postembryonic development in the context of neuronal and cardiac development, wound healing, and tissue regeneration. We describe recent studies of selective autophagy during development, including mitochondria-selective autophagy and endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-selective autophagy. Studies of developing model systems have also been used to discover novel regulators of autophagy, and we explain how studies of autophagy in these physiologically relevant systems are advancing our understanding of this important catabolic process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucas J Restrepo
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605 USA
| | - Eric H Baehrecke
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605 USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Khatun A, Nasrin T, Hassan MS, Hoque M, Hoda M, Ali S. A review on the nexus of autophagy genes from the perspective of polycystic ovary syndrome. Biol Cell 2024; 116:e2300069. [PMID: 38679788 DOI: 10.1111/boc.202300069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS is an endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. It is a diversified multi factorial disorder and diagnosis is very complicated because of its overlapping symptoms some of which are irregular menstrual cycle, acne in face, excess level of androgen (AE), insulin resistance, obesity, cardiovascular disease, mood disorder and type 2 diabetes (T2DM). PCOS may be caused by hormonal imbalance, genetic and epigenetic vulnerability, hypothalamic and ovarian troubles. PCOS is essentially hyperandrogenimia with oligo-anovulation. This review explains the abnormal regulation of autophagy related genes and proteins in different cells at various stages which leads to the genesis of PCOS. During nutrient starvation cells face stress condition, which it tries to overcome by activating its macroautophagy mechanism and by degrading the cytoplasmic material. This provides energy to the cell facilitating its survival. Downregulation of autophagy related genes in endometria has been observed in PCOS women. PCOS can be managed by maintaining proper lifestyle and medical treatment. Healthy meals and regular exercise can prevent the excessive weight and also reduce the PCOS complications. Medicines such as metformin, clomiphene, and the oral contraceptive pill can also balance the hormonal level. The imbalance in regulation of autophagy genes has been discussed with correlation to PCOS. The different management strategies for PCOS have also been summarized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arifa Khatun
- Clinical and Applied Genomics (CAG) Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Aliah University, Kolkata, India
| | - Taslima Nasrin
- Clinical and Applied Genomics (CAG) Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Aliah University, Kolkata, India
| | - Md Samim Hassan
- Clinical and Applied Genomics (CAG) Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Aliah University, Kolkata, India
| | - Mehboob Hoque
- Applied Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Aliah University, Kolkata, India
| | - Muddasarul Hoda
- Nanotechnology and Applied Phytochemistry (NAP) Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Aliah University, Kolkata, India
| | - Safdar Ali
- Clinical and Applied Genomics (CAG) Laboratory, Department of Biological Sciences, Aliah University, Kolkata, India
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhou Z, Wu Z, Zhang L, Dai Y, Shao G, Ren C, Huang P. Mitophagy in mammalian follicle development and health. Reprod Biol 2024; 24:100889. [PMID: 38733657 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2024.100889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Mitophagy, the cellular process that removes damaged mitochondria, plays a crucial role in maintaining normal cell functions. It is deeply involved in the entire process of follicle development and is associated with various ovarian diseases. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of mitophagy regulation, emphasizing its role at different stages of follicular development. Additionally, the study illuminates the relationship between mitophagy and ovarian diseases, including ovary aging (OA), primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). A detailed understanding of mitophagy could reveal valuable insights and novel strategies for managing female ovarian reproductive health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhengrong Zhou
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, PR China
| | - Zhipeng Wu
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, PR China
| | - Liufang Zhang
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, PR China
| | - Yue Dai
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, PR China
| | - Genbao Shao
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, PR China
| | - Caifang Ren
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, PR China
| | - Pan Huang
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Liu WJ, Li LS, Lan MF, Shang JZ, Zhang JX, Xiong WJ, Lai XL, Duan X. Zinc deficiency deteriorates ovarian follicle development and function by inhibiting mitochondrial function. J Ovarian Res 2024; 17:115. [PMID: 38807213 PMCID: PMC11134637 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-024-01442-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Zinc (Zn) is a crucial trace element essential for human growth and development, particularly for reproductive health. Previous research has shown a decrease in serum zinc concentration with age and individuals with conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and diabetes mellitus. However, the specific effects of zinc deficiency on the female reproductive system, especially ovarian function, are not fully understood. In our study, we observed a significant reduction in the total number of follicles and mature follicles in the zinc deficiency group. This reduction correlated with decreased level of anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and abnormal gene expression affecting hormone secretion regulation. Furthermore, we found that zinc deficiency disrupted mitochondrial dynamics, leading to oxidative stress in the ovaries, which further inhibited autophagy and increased ovarian apoptosis. These changes ultimately resulted in the failure of germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) and reduced oocyte quality. Meanwhile, administration of zinc glycine effectively alleviated the oocyte meiotic arrest caused by dietary zinc deficiency. In conclusion, our findings demonstrated that dietary zinc deficiency can affect hormone secretion and follicle maturation by impairing mitochondrial function and autophagy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Jiao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Applied Technology on Green-Eco-Healthy Animal Husbandry of Zhejiang Province, College of Animal Science and Technology & College of Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China
| | - Li-Shu Li
- Key Laboratory of Applied Technology on Green-Eco-Healthy Animal Husbandry of Zhejiang Province, College of Animal Science and Technology & College of Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China
| | - Meng-Fan Lan
- Key Laboratory of Applied Technology on Green-Eco-Healthy Animal Husbandry of Zhejiang Province, College of Animal Science and Technology & College of Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China
| | - Jian-Zhou Shang
- Key Laboratory of Applied Technology on Green-Eco-Healthy Animal Husbandry of Zhejiang Province, College of Animal Science and Technology & College of Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China
| | - Jin-Xin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Applied Technology on Green-Eco-Healthy Animal Husbandry of Zhejiang Province, College of Animal Science and Technology & College of Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China
| | - Wen-Jie Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Applied Technology on Green-Eco-Healthy Animal Husbandry of Zhejiang Province, College of Animal Science and Technology & College of Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China
| | - Xin-Le Lai
- Key Laboratory of Applied Technology on Green-Eco-Healthy Animal Husbandry of Zhejiang Province, College of Animal Science and Technology & College of Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China
| | - Xing Duan
- Key Laboratory of Applied Technology on Green-Eco-Healthy Animal Husbandry of Zhejiang Province, College of Animal Science and Technology & College of Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Gao Z, He W, Liu Y, Gao Y, Fan W, Luo Y, Shi X, Song S. Perinatal bisphenol S exposure exacerbates the oxidative burden and apoptosis in neonatal ovaries by suppressing the mTOR/autophagy axis. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 349:123939. [PMID: 38593938 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Bisphenol S (BPS) is an emerging environmental endocrine disruptor capable of crossing the placental barrier, resulting in widespread exposure to pregnant women due to its extensive usage. However, the impact of perinatal maternal exposure to BPS on reproductive health in offspring and the underlying molecular mechanism remain underexplored. In this study, gestational ICR mice were provided with drinking water containing 3.33 mg/L BPS to mimic possible human exposure in some countries. Results demonstrated that BPS accelerated the breakdown of germ-cell cysts and the assembly of primordial follicles in neonates, leading to oocyte over-loss. Furthermore, the expression levels of folliculogenesis-related genes (Kit, Nobox, Gdf9, Sohlh2, Kitl, Bmp15, Lhx8, Figla, and Tgfb1) decreased, thus compromising oocyte quality and disrupting early folliculogenesis dynamics. BPS also disrupted other aspects of offspring reproduction, including advancing puberty onset, disrupting the estrus cycle, and impairing fertility. Further investigation found that BPS exposure inhibited the activities and expression levels of antioxidant-related enzymes in neonatal ovaries, leading to the substantial accumulation of MDA and ROS. The increased oxidative burden exacerbated the intracellular apoptotic signaling, manifested by increased expression levels of pro-apoptotic markers (Bax, Caspase 3, and Caspase 9) and decreased expression levels of anti-apoptotic marker (Bcl2). Concurrently, BPS inhibited autophagy by increasing p-mTOR/mTOR and decreasing p-ULK1/ULK1, subsequently down-regulating autophagy flux-related biomarkers (LC3b/LC3a and Beclin-1) and impeding the degradation of autophagy substrate p62. However, the imbalanced crosstalk between autophagy, apoptosis and oxidative stress homeostasis was restored after rapamycin treatment. Collectively, the findings demonstrated that BPS exposure induced reproductive disorders in offspring by perturbing the mTOR/autophagy axis, and such autophagic dysfunction exacerbated redox imbalance and promoted excessive apoptosis. These results provide novel mechanistic insights into the role of autophagy in mitigating BPS-induced intergenerational reproductive dysfunction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhangshan Gao
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wanqiu He
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yapei Liu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yixin Gao
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wentao Fan
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yan Luo
- Administration for Market Regulation of Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Supervision for Edible Agricultural Products, Shenzhen Centre of Inspection and Testing for Agricultural Products, Shenzhen, 518000, China
| | - Xizhi Shi
- Key Laboratory of Aquacultural Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Marine Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Suquan Song
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, Jiangsu Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Folts L, Martinez AS, Bunce C, Capel B, McKey J. OoCount: A Machine-Learning Based Approach to Mouse Ovarian Follicle Counting and Classification. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.13.593993. [PMID: 38798456 PMCID: PMC11118501 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.13.593993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
The number and distribution of ovarian follicles in each growth stage provides a reliable readout of ovarian health and function. Leveraging techniques for three-dimensional (3D) imaging of ovaries in toto has the potential to uncover total, accurate ovarian follicle counts. However, because of the size and holistic nature of these images, counting oocytes is time consuming and difficult. The advent of deep-learning algorithms has allowed for the rapid development of ultra-fast, automated methods to analyze microscopy images. In recent years, these pipelines have become more user-friendly and accessible to non-specialists. We used these tools to create OoCount, a high-throughput, open-source method for automatic oocyte segmentation and classification from fluorescent 3D microscopy images of whole mouse ovaries using a deep-learning convolutional neural network (CNN) based approach. We developed a fast tissue-clearing and spinning disk confocal-based imaging protocol to obtain 3D images of whole mount perinatal and adult mouse ovaries. Fluorescently labeled oocytes from 3D images of ovaries were manually annotated in Napari to develop a machine learning training dataset. This dataset was used to retrain StarDist using a CNN within DL4MicEverywhere to automatically label all oocytes in the ovary. In a second phase, we utilize Accelerated Pixel and Object Classification, a Napari plugin, to classify labeled oocytes and sort them into growth stages. Here, we provide an end-to-end protocol for producing high-quality 3D images of the perinatal and adult mouse ovary, obtaining follicle counts and staging. We also demonstrate how to customize OoCount to fit images produced in any lab. Using OoCount, we can obtain accurate counts of oocytes in each growth stage in the perinatal and adult ovary, improving our ability to study ovarian function and fertility. Summary sentence This protocol introduces OoCount, a high-throughput, open-source method for automatic oocyte segmentation and classification from fluorescent 3D microscopy images of whole mouse ovaries using a machine learning-based approach.
Collapse
|
7
|
Chesnokov MS, Mamedova AR, Zhivotovsky B, Kopeina GS. A matter of new life and cell death: programmed cell death in the mammalian ovary. J Biomed Sci 2024; 31:31. [PMID: 38509545 PMCID: PMC10956231 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-024-01017-6] [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: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mammalian ovary is a unique organ that displays a distinctive feature of cyclic changes throughout the entire reproductive period. The estrous/menstrual cycles are associated with drastic functional and morphological rearrangements of ovarian tissue, including follicular development and degeneration, and the formation and subsequent atrophy of the corpus luteum. The flawless execution of these reiterative processes is impossible without the involvement of programmed cell death (PCD). MAIN TEXT PCD is crucial for efficient and careful clearance of excessive, depleted, or obsolete ovarian structures for ovarian cycling. Moreover, PCD facilitates selection of high-quality oocytes and formation of the ovarian reserve during embryonic and juvenile development. Disruption of PCD regulation can heavily impact the ovarian functions and is associated with various pathologies, from a moderate decrease in fertility to severe hormonal disturbance, complete loss of reproductive function, and tumorigenesis. This comprehensive review aims to provide updated information on the role of PCD in various processes occurring in normal and pathologic ovaries. Three major events of PCD in the ovary-progenitor germ cell depletion, follicular atresia, and corpus luteum degradation-are described, alongside the detailed information on molecular regulation of these processes, highlighting the contribution of apoptosis, autophagy, necroptosis, and ferroptosis. Ultimately, the current knowledge of PCD aberrations associated with pathologies, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, premature ovarian insufficiency, and tumors of ovarian origin, is outlined. CONCLUSION PCD is an essential element in ovarian development, functions and pathologies. A thorough understanding of molecular mechanisms regulating PCD events is required for future advances in the diagnosis and management of various disorders of the ovary and the female reproductive system in general.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mikhail S Chesnokov
- Faculty of Medicine, MV Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Aygun R Mamedova
- Faculty of Medicine, MV Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Boris Zhivotovsky
- Faculty of Medicine, MV Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia.
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia.
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Gelina S Kopeina
- Faculty of Medicine, MV Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia.
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Li M, Xing W, Wang B, Qi N, Liu J, Yu S. Analysis of core promoter and transcription factors screening of porcine ATG7 gene. Gene 2024; 899:148138. [PMID: 38184022 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Mengxuan Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212100, China
| | - Wenwen Xing
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212100, China
| | - Binbin Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212100, China
| | - Nannan Qi
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212100, China
| | - Jiying Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang 212100, China; Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Mulberry Genetic Improvement, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, The Sericultural Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhenjiang 212100, China.
| | - Shali Yu
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, Nantong Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Popli P, Oestreich AK, Maurya VK, Rowen MN, Masand R, Holtzman MJ, Zhang Y, Lydon J, Akira S, Moley KH, Kommagani R. The autophagy protein, ATG14 safeguards against unscheduled pyroptosis activation to enable embryo transport during early pregnancy. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.19.585812. [PMID: 38562843 PMCID: PMC10983954 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.19.585812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), characterized by two or more failed clinical pregnancies, poses a significant challenge to reproductive health. In addition to embryo quality and endometrial function, proper oviduct function is also essential for successful pregnancy establishment. Therefore, structural abnormalities or inflammation resulting from infection in the oviduct may impede the transport of embryos to the endometrium, thereby increasing the risk of miscarriage. However, the precise cellular mechanisms that maintain the structural and functional integrity of the oviduct are not studied yet. Here, we report that autophagy is critical for maintaining the oviduct homeostasis and keeping the inflammation under check to enable embryo transport. Specifically, the loss of the autophagy-related gene, Atg14 in the oviduct causes severe structural abnormalities compromising its cellular plasticity and integrity leading to the retention of embryos. Interestingly, the selective loss of Atg14 in oviduct ciliary epithelial cells did not impact female fertility, highlighting the specificity of ATG14 function in distinct cell types within the oviduct. Mechanistically, loss of Atg14 triggered unscheduled pyroptosis leading to inappropriate embryo retention and impeded embryo transport in the oviduct. Finally, pharmacological activation of pyroptosis in pregnant mice led to an impairment in embryo transport. Together, we found that ATG14 safeguards against unscheduled pyroptosis activation to enable embryo transport from the oviduct to uterus for the successful implantation. Of clinical significance, these findings provide possible insights on the underlying mechanism(s) of early pregnancy loss and might aid in developing novel prevention strategies using autophagy modulators.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Popli
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Arin K. Oestreich
- Department Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
- Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Vineet K. Maurya
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Marina N. Rowen
- Department Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
- Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Ramya Masand
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Michael J. Holtzman
- Department of Medicine and Department of Cell Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Medicine and Department of Cell Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - John Lydon
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Shizuo Akira
- Department of Host Defense, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases (RIMD), Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Laboratory of Host Defense, World Premier Institute Immunology Frontier Research Center (WPI-IFReC), Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Kelle H. Moley
- Department Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
- Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Ramakrishna Kommagani
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lecot-Connan T, Boumerdassi Y, Magnin F, Binart N, Kamenický P, Sonigo C, Beau I. Anti-Müllerian hormone induces autophagy to preserve the primordial follicle pool in mice. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23506. [PMID: 38411466 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202302141r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
The reserve pool of primordial follicles (PMFs) is finely regulated by molecules implicated in follicular growth or PMF survival. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), produced by granulosa cells of growing follicles, is known for its inhibitory role in the initiation of PMF growth. We observed in a recent in vivo study that injection of AMH into mice seemed to induce an activation of autophagy. Furthermore, injection of AMH into mice activates the transcription factor FOXO3A which is also known for its implication in autophagy regulation. Many studies highlighted the key role of autophagy in the ovary at different stages of folliculogenesis, particularly in PMF survival. Through an in vitro approach with organotypic cultures of prepubertal mouse ovaries, treated or not with AMH, we aimed to understand the link among AMH, autophagy, and FOXO3A transcription factor. Autophagy and FOXO3A phosphorylation were analyzed by western blot. The expression of genes involved in autophagy was quantified by RT-qPCR. In our in vitro model, we confirmed the decrease in FOXO3A phosphorylation and the induction of autophagy in ovaries incubated with AMH. AMH also induces the expression of genes involved in autophagy. Interestingly, most of these genes are known to be FOXO3A target genes. In conclusion, we have identified a new role for AMH, namely the induction of autophagy, probably through FOXO3A activation. Thus, AMH protects the ovarian reserve not only by inhibiting the growth of PMFs but also by enabling their survival through activation of autophagy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Lecot-Connan
- Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, Physiologie et Physiopathologie Endocriniennes, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Yasmine Boumerdassi
- Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, Physiologie et Physiopathologie Endocriniennes, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Françoise Magnin
- Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, Physiologie et Physiopathologie Endocriniennes, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Nadine Binart
- Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, Physiologie et Physiopathologie Endocriniennes, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Peter Kamenický
- Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, Physiologie et Physiopathologie Endocriniennes, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- AP-HP, Hôpital Bicêtre, Service d'Endocrinologie et des Maladies de la Reproduction, Centre de Référence des Maladies Rares de l'Hypophyse, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Charlotte Sonigo
- Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, Physiologie et Physiopathologie Endocriniennes, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
- AP-HP, Hôpital Antoine Béclère, Service de Médecine de la reproduction et Préservation de la Fertilité, Clamart, France
| | - Isabelle Beau
- Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, Physiologie et Physiopathologie Endocriniennes, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zhu JR, Zhu WJ, Li T, Ou JP. Autophagy activity is increased in the cumulus cells of women with poor ovarian response. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol 2024; 63:205-213. [PMID: 38485316 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjog.2024.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the autophagy status of cumulus cells (CCs) in women with poor ovarian response (POR). MATERIALS AND METHODS CCs were divided into normal ovarian response (NOR) group and POR group. The ultrastructure of autophagy was analyzed by transmission electron microscopy (NOR: n = 18, POR: n = 26). The mRNA and protein of autophagy markers were detected by Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (NOR: n = 15, POR: n = 19) and Western blotting (NOR: n = 41, POR: n = 38), respectively. RESULTS Transmission electron microscopy demonstrated abundant autophagosomes and even autophagic death in the POR group. There were no differences in LC3 and P62 mRNA expression between the two groups (p > 0.05). The BCL2 mRNA expression was lower in the POR group (p < 0.05). Moreover, the LC3 II/I ratio and the P62 protein expression were significantly higher in the POR group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Autophagy in CCs of POR women is activated and the autophagic flux is blocked. The up-regulation of autophagy in CCs may be related to the pathogenesis of POR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie-Ru Zhu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei-Jie Zhu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian-Ping Ou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zaffagnini G, Cheng S, Salzer MC, Pernaute B, Duran JM, Irimia M, Schuh M, Böke E. Mouse oocytes sequester aggregated proteins in degradative super-organelles. Cell 2024; 187:1109-1126.e21. [PMID: 38382525 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.01.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Oocytes are among the longest-lived cells in the body and need to preserve their cytoplasm to support proper embryonic development. Protein aggregation is a major threat for intracellular homeostasis in long-lived cells. How oocytes cope with protein aggregation during their extended life is unknown. Here, we find that mouse oocytes accumulate protein aggregates in specialized compartments that we named endolysosomal vesicular assemblies (ELVAs). Combining live-cell imaging, electron microscopy, and proteomics, we found that ELVAs are non-membrane-bound compartments composed of endolysosomes, autophagosomes, and proteasomes held together by a protein matrix formed by RUFY1. Functional assays revealed that in immature oocytes, ELVAs sequester aggregated proteins, including TDP-43, and degrade them upon oocyte maturation. Inhibiting degradative activity in ELVAs leads to the accumulation of protein aggregates in the embryo and is detrimental for embryo survival. Thus, ELVAs represent a strategy to safeguard protein homeostasis in long-lived cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Zaffagnini
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Shiya Cheng
- Department of Meiosis, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Marion C Salzer
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Barbara Pernaute
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Manuel Duran
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Irimia
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain; ICREA, Pg. Lluís Companys 23, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Melina Schuh
- Department of Meiosis, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, 37077 Göttingen, Germany; Cluster of Excellence "Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells" (MBExC), University of Göttingen, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Elvan Böke
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zhou XY, Lai YH, Zhang J, Li Y, Wu XM, Yang YZ, Zhang XF, Ma LZ, Zheng KM, Liu YD, Wang Z, Chen SL. Advanced oxidation protein products attenuate the autophagy-lysosome pathway in ovarian granulosa cells by modulating the ROS-dependent mTOR-TFEB pathway. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:161. [PMID: 38383507 PMCID: PMC10881514 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06540-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Oxidative stress dysfunction has recently been found to be involved in the pathogenesis of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). Previously, we found that advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs) in plasma were elevated in women with POI and had an adverse effect on granulosa cell proliferation. However, the mechanism underlying the effects of AOPPs on autophagy-lysosome pathway regulation in granulosa cells remains unclear. In this study, the effect of AOPPs on autophagy and lysosomal biogenesis and the underlying mechanisms were explored by a series of in vitro experiments in KGN and COV434 cell lines. AOPP-treated rat models were employed to determine the negative effect of AOPPs on the autophagy-lysosome systems in vivo. We found that increased AOPP levels activated the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, and inhibited the autophagic response and lysosomal biogenesis in KGN and COV434 cells. Furthermore, scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS) with N-acetylcysteine and blockade of the mTOR pathway with rapamycin or via starvation alleviated the AOPP-induced inhibitory effects on autophagy and lysosomal biogenesis, suggesting that these effects of AOPPs are ROS-mTOR dependent. The protein expression and nuclear translocation of transcription factor EB (TFEB), the key regulator of lysosomal and autophagic function, were also impaired by the AOPP-activated ROS-mTOR pathway. In addition, TFEB overexpression attenuated the AOPP-induced impairment of autophagic flux and lysosomal biogenesis in KGN and COV434 cells. Chronic AOPP stimulation in vivo also impaired autophagy and lysosomal biogenesis in granulosa cells of rat ovaries. The results highlight that AOPPs lead to impairment of autophagic flux and lysosomal biogenesis via ROS-mTOR-TFEB signaling in granulosa cells and participate in the pathogenesis of POI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xing-Yu Zhou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Yun-Hui Lai
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Ying Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Xiao-Min Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Yi-Zhen Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Xiao-Fei Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Lin-Zi Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Ke-Ming Zheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Yu-Dong Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Shi-Ling Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Guo Y, Jia L, Zeng H, Sun P, Su W, Li T, Liang X, Fang C. Neurotrophin-4 promotes in vitro development and maturation of human secondary follicles yielding metaphase II oocytes and successful blastocyst formation. Hum Reprod Open 2024; 2024:hoae005. [PMID: 38371224 PMCID: PMC10873269 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoae005] [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: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does a matrix-free culture system supplemented with neurotrophic factor 4 (NT4) improve human in vitro follicular development and meiotic maturation, ultimately resulting in fertilizable oocytes? SUMMARY ANSWER NT4 supplementation of in vitro culture significantly enhances the growth, steroid hormone production, and maturity potential of human secondary follicles derived from fresh ovarian medulla (from post- and pre-pubertal patients), thereby yielding fertilizable oocytes. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Reconstituting folliculogenesis in vitro is of paramount importance in the realms of fertility preservation, reproductive biology research, and reproductive toxicity assessments. However, the efficiency of in vitro culture systems remains suboptimal, as the attainment of fertilizable oocytes from in vitro growth (IVG) of human follicles remains unachieved, with the data being particularly scant regarding follicles from prepubertal girls. We have previously found that mouse oocytes from secondary follicles derived from IVG are deficient in neuroendocrine regulation. NT4 and its corresponding receptor have been identified in human follicles. Significantly, the addition of NT4 during the IVG process markedly enhances both follicle growth and oocyte maturation rates in mice. STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION Fresh medulla tissue obtained during tissue preparation for ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) were collected from 10 patients aged from 6 to 21 years old, all of whom had undergone unilateral oophorectomy as a means of fertility preservation. Isolated secondary follicles were individually cultured in vitro with or without NT4 in a matrix-free system. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS Secondary follicles, extracted via enzymatic digestion and mechanical disruption from each patient, were randomly allocated to either a control group or an NT4-supplemented group (100 ng/ml), followed by individual culture on an ultra-low attachment plate. Follicle growth and viability were assessed by microscopy. Levels of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), estradiol, and progesterone in the medium were quantified. An oocyte-specific marker was identified using confocal fluorescence microscopy following DEAD box polypeptide 4 (DDX4) staining. The competence of individual oocytes for maturation and fertilization were assessed after IVM and ICSI with donated sperm samples. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Overall, isolated follicles from both groups survived up to 6 weeks with increasing diameters over the duration (P < 0.05), reaching terminal diameters of almost 1 mm with confirmed steroidogenesis and expression of oocyte marker (DDX4), and producing morphologically normal MII oocytes. When compared with the control group, the NT4 group had a similar initial follicular diameter (206 ± 61.3 vs 184 ± 93.4 μm) but exhibited a significant increase in follicular diameter from the ninth day of culture onwards (P < 0.05). From Week 3, estradiol and progesterone production were significantly increased in the NT4 group, while no significant difference was observed in AMH production between groups. The proportion of 'fast-growth' follicles in the NT4 group was significantly higher than that in the control group (13/23 vs 6/24, P < 0.05). An increased efficiency of MII oocyte maturation per live follicle in the NT4 group was also observed (control group vs NT4 group, 4/24 vs 10/23, P < 0.05). It is noteworthy that an MII oocyte obtained from the control group exhibited abnormal fertilization after ICSI. In contrast, an MII oocyte acquired from the NT4 group progressed to the blastocyst stage and showed potential for transfer. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION The cohort examined in this study was all patients diagnosed with beta-thalassemia major. Whether this culture system is effective for patients with other diseases remains unknown. Since the chosen dose of NT4 was established based on dose finding in mice, the optimal dose for use in a human IVG system needs further confirmation. The oocytes and embryos procured from this study have not been quantified for ploidy status or epigenetic signatures. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Fresh medulla tissue obtained during tissue preparation for OTC may serve as a precious source of fertilizable oocytes for female fertility preservation, even for pre-pubertal girls, without the threat of tumour reintroduction. After further characterization and optimization of the system, this culture system holds the potential to provide a powerful future research tool, for the comprehensive exploration of human follicular development mechanisms and for conducting reproductive toxicity evaluations. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This work was supported by the National Key R&D Program of China (grant number 2022YFC2703000) and National Natural Science Foundation of China (grant numbers 82271651 and 81871214). The medium used in human follicle in vitro culture in this study has been applied for a national invention patent in China (No. 202211330660.7). The inventors of the patent, in order, are: Y.G., C.F., and X.L.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yingchun Guo
- Reproductive Medicine Research Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility Preservation, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Jia
- Reproductive Medicine Research Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility Preservation, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haitao Zeng
- Reproductive Medicine Research Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility Preservation, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peng Sun
- Reproductive Medicine Research Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility Preservation, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenlong Su
- Reproductive Medicine Research Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility Preservation, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tingting Li
- Reproductive Medicine Research Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility Preservation, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyan Liang
- Reproductive Medicine Research Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility Preservation, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cong Fang
- Reproductive Medicine Research Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility Preservation, Guangdong, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Samare-Najaf M, Neisy A, Samareh A, Moghadam D, Jamali N, Zarei R, Zal F. The constructive and destructive impact of autophagy on both genders' reproducibility, a comprehensive review. Autophagy 2023; 19:3033-3061. [PMID: 37505071 PMCID: PMC10621263 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2023.2238577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Reproduction is characterized by a series of massive renovations at molecular, cellular, and tissue levels. Recent studies have strongly tended to reveal the involvement of basic molecular pathways such as autophagy, a highly conserved eukaryotic cellular recycling, during reproductive processes. This review comprehensively describes the current knowledge, updated to September 2022, of autophagy contribution during reproductive processes in males including spermatogenesis, sperm motility and viability, and male sex hormones and females including germ cells and oocytes viability, ovulation, implantation, fertilization, and female sex hormones. Furthermore, the consequences of disruption in autophagic flux on the reproductive disorders including oligospermia, azoospermia, asthenozoospermia, teratozoospermia, globozoospermia, premature ovarian insufficiency, polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, and other disorders related to infertility are discussed as well.Abbreviations: AKT/protein kinase B: AKT serine/threonine kinase; AMPK: AMP-activated protein kinase; ATG: autophagy related; E2: estrogen; EDs: endocrine disruptors; ER: endoplasmic reticulum; FSH: follicle stimulating hormone; FOX: forkhead box; GCs: granulosa cells; HIF: hypoxia inducible factor; IVF: in vitro fertilization; IVM: in vitro maturation; LCs: Leydig cells; LDs: lipid droplets; LH: luteinizing hormone; LRWD1: leucine rich repeats and WD repeat domain containing 1; MAP1LC3: microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3; MAPK: mitogen-activated protein kinase; MTOR: mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase; NFKB/NF-kB: nuclear factor kappa B; P4: progesterone; PCOS: polycystic ovarian syndrome; PDLIM1: PDZ and LIM domain 1; PI3K: phosphoinositide 3-kinase; PtdIns3P: phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate; PtdIns3K: class III phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase; POI: premature ovarian insufficiency; ROS: reactive oxygen species; SCs: Sertoli cells; SQSTM1/p62: sequestosome 1; TSGA10: testis specific 10; TST: testosterone; VCP: vasolin containing protein.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Samare-Najaf
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Kerman Regional Blood Transfusion Center, Kerman, Iran
| | - Asma Neisy
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ali Samareh
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Delaram Moghadam
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Navid Jamali
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, Sirjan School of Medical Sciences, Sirjan, Iran
| | - Reza Zarei
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Zal
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Infertility Research Centre, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Niu C, Jiang D, Guo Y, Wang Z, Sun Q, Wang X, Ling W, An X, Ji C, Li S, Zhao H, Kang B. Spermidine suppresses oxidative stress and ferroptosis by Nrf2/HO-1/GPX4 and Akt/FHC/ACSL4 pathway to alleviate ovarian damage. Life Sci 2023; 332:122109. [PMID: 37741320 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Oxidative stress is considered to be one of the culprits of ovarian dysfunction. Spermidine (SPD) is a natural aliphatic polyamine that is widely present in living organisms and has been shown to exert preventive effects on various ageing-related diseases. This study seeks to investigate the potential preventive and protective effects of SPD on ovarian oxidative damage. MAIN METHODS Ovarian oxidative stress model in C57BL/6 mice was established by 3-nitropropionic acid. Female mice were administrated 10 mg/kg or 15 mg/kg SPD. The estrous cycle, serum hormone levels and mating test were measured to evaluate ovarian function. Follicle counts and AMH levels to assess ovarian reserve. Masson's trichrome to assess ovarian fibrosis. TUNEL analysis to evaluate follicular granulosa cells (GCs) apoptosis. Oxidative stress and autophagy indicators (Nrf2, HO-1, GPX4, LC3B, P62) were measured in vivo and in vitro. RNA-sequencing was performed on SPD-treated GC to study the effects of SPD on Akt and FHC/ACSL4 signaling. KEY FINDINGS SPD supplementation improved ovarian endocrine function and reproductive capacity in oxidative stress mice. SPD regularized the estrous cycle and alleviated oxidative stress. Furthermore, SPD increased the ovarian reserve, reducing GC apoptosis by activating the Nrf2/HO-1/GPX4 pathway. RNA-sequencing showed that SPD induced 230 genes changes in porcine GC, which were mainly involved in oocyte meiosis, arginine biosynthesis and glutathione metabolism pathways. SPD attenuated H2O2-induced ferroptosis by regulating Akt/FHC/ACSL4 signaling. SIGNIFICANCE SPD alleviates oxidative stress and ferroptosis by regulating the Nrf2/HO-1/GPX4 and Akt/FHC/ACSL4 pathway, which may be a novel potential strategy to protect ovarian oxidative damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunyang Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Dongmei Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Yongni Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Zelong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Qian Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Xin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Weikang Ling
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Xiaoguang An
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Chengweng Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Shuo Li
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Hua Zhao
- Animal Nutrition Institute, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Bo Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, Farm Animal Genetic Resource Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Cheng D, Zheng B, Sheng Y, Zeng Z, Mo Z. The Roles of Autophagy in the Genesis and Development of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:2920-2931. [PMID: 37204635 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01255-3] [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: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common and frequent disease and always leads endocrine and metabolic disorder among women in reproductive age. Ovary is the main organ involved in polycystic ovary syndrome, and its function impairment will lead to reproductive dysfunction. Some recent studies have demonstrated that autophagy plays an important role in the pathogenesis of PCOS, and there are many different mechanisms that affect autophagy and the occurrence of PCOS, and they provide a new direction for us to predict the mechanism of PCOS. In this review, we discuss the role of autophagy in different ovarian cells: granulosa cells, oocytes, and theca cells, and introduce the important role that they play in the progress of PCOS. The main purpose of this review is to provide the research background and some relevant suggestions for our future work in autophagy and help us better explore the pathogenesis and autophagy mechanisms of PCOS. Furthermore, it will help us gain a new insight of the pathophysiology and treatment of PCOS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Di Cheng
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Diabetic Systems Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Guilin Medical University, Guangxi, 541199, Guilin, China
- Joint Laboratory of Chronic Disease Prevention and Research, Guilin Medical University, Hunan Mingshun Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, Shaodong, Hunan, 422800, Guilin, China
| | - Biao Zheng
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Diabetic Systems Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Guilin Medical University, Guangxi, 541199, Guilin, China
- Joint Laboratory of Chronic Disease Prevention and Research, Guilin Medical University, Hunan Mingshun Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, Shaodong, Hunan, 422800, Guilin, China
| | - Ying Sheng
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, China
| | - Zhaoming Zeng
- Joint Laboratory of Chronic Disease Prevention and Research, Guilin Medical University, Hunan Mingshun Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, Shaodong, Hunan, 422800, Guilin, China.
| | - Zhongcheng Mo
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Diabetic Systems Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Guilin Medical University, Guangxi, 541199, Guilin, China.
- Guangxi Health Commission Key Laboratory of Basic Research in Sphingolipid Metabolism Related Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541001, Guangxi, China.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Telfer EE, Grosbois J, Odey YL, Rosario R, Anderson RA. Making a good egg: human oocyte health, aging, and in vitro development. Physiol Rev 2023; 103:2623-2677. [PMID: 37171807 PMCID: PMC10625843 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00032.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian eggs (oocytes) are formed during fetal life and establish associations with somatic cells to form primordial follicles that create a store of germ cells (the primordial pool). The size of this pool is influenced by key events during the formation of germ cells and by factors that influence the subsequent activation of follicle growth. These regulatory pathways must ensure that the reserve of oocytes within primordial follicles in humans lasts for up to 50 years, yet only approximately 0.1% will ever be ovulated with the rest undergoing degeneration. This review outlines the mechanisms and regulatory pathways that govern the processes of oocyte and follicle formation and later growth, within the ovarian stroma, through to ovulation with particular reference to human oocytes/follicles. In addition, the effects of aging on female reproductive capacity through changes in oocyte number and quality are emphasized, with both the cellular mechanisms and clinical implications discussed. Finally, the details of current developments in culture systems that support all stages of follicle growth to generate mature oocytes in vitro and emerging prospects for making new oocytes from stem cells are outlined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn E Telfer
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Johanne Grosbois
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Yvonne L Odey
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Roseanne Rosario
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Affiliation(s)
- Chao Liu
- Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Wei Li
- Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Stringer JM, Alesi LR, Winship AL, Hutt KJ. Beyond apoptosis: evidence of other regulated cell death pathways in the ovary throughout development and life. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:434-456. [PMID: 36857094 PMCID: PMC10320496 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Regulated cell death is a fundamental component of numerous physiological processes; spanning from organogenesis in utero, to normal cell turnover during adulthood, as well as the elimination of infected or damaged cells throughout life. Quality control through regulation of cell death pathways is particularly important in the germline, which is responsible for the generation of offspring. Women are born with their entire supply of germ cells, housed in functional units known as follicles. Follicles contain an oocyte, as well as specialized somatic granulosa cells essential for oocyte survival. Follicle loss-via regulated cell death-occurs throughout follicle development and life, and can be accelerated following exposure to various environmental and lifestyle factors. It is thought that the elimination of damaged follicles is necessary to ensure that only the best quality oocytes are available for reproduction. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Understanding the precise factors involved in triggering and executing follicle death is crucial to uncovering how follicle endowment is initially determined, as well as how follicle number is maintained throughout puberty, reproductive life, and ovarian ageing in women. Apoptosis is established as essential for ovarian homeostasis at all stages of development and life. However, involvement of other cell death pathways in the ovary is less established. This review aims to summarize the most recent literature on cell death regulators in the ovary, with a particular focus on non-apoptotic pathways and their functions throughout the discrete stages of ovarian development and reproductive life. SEARCH METHODS Comprehensive literature searches were carried out using PubMed and Google Scholar for human, animal, and cellular studies published until August 2022 using the following search terms: oogenesis, follicle formation, follicle atresia, oocyte loss, oocyte apoptosis, regulated cell death in the ovary, non-apoptotic cell death in the ovary, premature ovarian insufficiency, primordial follicles, oocyte quality control, granulosa cell death, autophagy in the ovary, autophagy in oocytes, necroptosis in the ovary, necroptosis in oocytes, pyroptosis in the ovary, pyroptosis in oocytes, parthanatos in the ovary, and parthanatos in oocytes. OUTCOMES Numerous regulated cell death pathways operate in mammalian cells, including apoptosis, autophagic cell death, necroptosis, and pyroptosis. However, our understanding of the distinct cell death mediators in each ovarian cell type and follicle class across the different stages of life remains the source of ongoing investigation. Here, we highlight recent evidence for the contribution of non-apoptotic pathways to ovarian development and function. In particular, we discuss the involvement of autophagy during follicle formation and the role of autophagic cell death, necroptosis, pyroptosis, and parthanatos during follicle atresia, particularly in response to physiological stressors (e.g. oxidative stress). WIDER IMPLICATIONS Improved knowledge of the roles of each regulated cell death pathway in the ovary is vital for understanding ovarian development, as well as maintenance of ovarian function throughout the lifespan. This information is pertinent not only to our understanding of endocrine health, reproductive health, and fertility in women but also to enable identification of novel fertility preservation targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M Stringer
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Lauren R Alesi
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Amy L Winship
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Karla J Hutt
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Zhang Y, Wan Y, Mu X, Gao R, Geng Y, Chen X, Li F, He J. Gestational dibutyl phthalate exposure impairs primordial folliculogenesis in mice through autophagy activation and NOTCH2 signal interruption. Food Chem Toxicol 2023:113861. [PMID: 37277016 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.113861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Female reproductive lifespan is largely determined by the size of the primordial follicle pool, which is established in early life. Dibutyl phthalate (DBP), a popular plasticiser, is a known environmental endocrine disruptor that poses a potential threat to reproductive health. However, DBP impact on early oogenesis has been rarely reported. In this study, maternal exposure to DBP in gestation disrupted germ-cell cyst breakdown and primordial follicle assembly in foetal ovary, impairing female fertility in adulthood. Subsequently, altered autophagic flux with autophagosome accumulation was observed in DBP-exposed ovaries carrying CAG-RFP-EGFP-LC3 reporter genes, whereas autophagy inhibition by 3-methyladenine attenuated the impact of DBP on primordial folliculogenesis. Moreover, DBP exposure reduced the expression of NOTCH2 intracellular domain (NICD2) and decreased interactions between NICD2 and Beclin-l. NICD2 was observed within the autophagosomes in DBP-exposed ovaries. Furthermore, NICD2 overexpression partially restored primordial folliculogenesis. Furthermore, melatonin significantly relieved oxidative stress, decreased autophagy, and restored NOTCH2 signalling, consequently reversing the effect on folliculogenesis. Therefore, this study demonstrated that gestational DBP exposure disrupts primordial folliculogenesis by inducing autophagy, which targets NOTCH2 signalling, and this impact has long-term consequences on fertility in adulthood, strengthening the potential contribution of environmental chemicals to the development of ovarian dysfunctional diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China
| | - Yiji Wan
- Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China
| | - Xinyi Mu
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China; School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China
| | - Rufei Gao
- Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China
| | - Yanqing Geng
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China; School of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China
| | - Xuemei Chen
- Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China
| | - Fangfang Li
- Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China
| | - Junlin He
- Department of Health Toxicology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Badawi S, Mohamed FE, Varghese DS, Ali BR. Genetic disruption of mammalian endoplasmic reticulum-associated protein degradation: Human phenotypes and animal and cellular disease models. Traffic 2023. [PMID: 37188482 DOI: 10.1111/tra.12902] [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: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Endoplasmic reticulum-associated protein degradation (ERAD) is a stringent quality control mechanism through which misfolded, unassembled and some native proteins are targeted for degradation to maintain appropriate cellular and organelle homeostasis. Several in vitro and in vivo ERAD-related studies have provided mechanistic insights into ERAD pathway activation and its consequent events; however, a majority of these have investigated the effect of ERAD substrates and their consequent diseases affecting the degradation process. In this review, we present all reported human single-gene disorders caused by genetic variation in genes that encode ERAD components rather than their substrates. Additionally, after extensive literature survey, we present various genetically manipulated higher cellular and mammalian animal models that lack specific components involved in various stages of the ERAD pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sally Badawi
- Department of Genetics and Genomics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Feda E Mohamed
- Department of Genetics and Genomics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Divya Saro Varghese
- Department of Genetics and Genomics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Bassam R Ali
- Department of Genetics and Genomics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- ASPIRE Precision Medicine Research Institute Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Liu W, Chen M, Liu C, Wang L, Wei H, Zhang R, Ren Z, Chen Y, Luo M, Zhao J, Jiang H, Gao F, Li W. Epg5 deficiency leads to primary ovarian insufficiency due to WT1 accumulation in mouse granulosa cells. Autophagy 2023; 19:644-659. [PMID: 35786405 PMCID: PMC9851269 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2022.2094671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), also known as premature ovarian failure, is an ovarian defect in humans characterized by the premature depletion of ovarian follicles before the age of 40. However, the mechanisms underlying POI remain largely unknown. Here, we show that knockout of Epg5 (ectopic P-granules autophagy protein 5 homolog (C. elegans)) results in subfertility in female mice, which exhibit a POI-like phenotype. Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis revealed that the knockout of Epg5 affected the differentiation of granulosa cells (GCs). Further investigation demonstrated that knockout of Epg5 blocks macroautophagic/autophagic flux, resulting in the accumulation of WT1 (WT1 transcription factor), an essential transcription factor for GCs, suggesting WT1 needs to be selectively degraded by the autophagy pathway. We found that the insufficient degradation of WT1 in the antral follicular stage contributes to reduced expression of steroidogenesis-related genes, thereby disrupting GC differentiation. Collectively, our studies show that EPG5 promotes WT1 degradation in GCs, indicating that the dysregulation of Epg5 in GCs can trigger POI pathogenesis.Abbreviations: 3-MA, 3-methyladenine; CHX, cycloheximide; CQ, chloroquine; EPG5, ectopic P-granules autophagy protein 5 homolog (C. elegans); GC, granulosa cell; MAP1LC3/LC3, microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3; MII, metaphase II; POI, primary ovarian insufficiency; PB1, polar body 1; SQSTM1/p62, sequestosome 1; WT1, WT1 transcription factor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenwen Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,College of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Min Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Chao Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Liying Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Huafang Wei
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Ruidan Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Zhengxing Ren
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Yinghong Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Mengcheng Luo
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P.R China
| | - Jianguo Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Hongwei Jiang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital, and College of Clinical Medicine of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, P.R. China,National Center for Clinical Research of Metabolic Diseases, Luoyang Center for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Luoyang, P.R. China,CONTACT Hongwei Jiang Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital and Clinical Medicine College, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang471003, P.R. China
| | - Fei Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China,Fei Gao State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing100101, P.R. China
| | - Wei Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, P.R. China,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, P.R. China,Wei Li Institute of Reproductive Health and Perinatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou510623, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Cacciottola L, Camboni A, Cernogoraz A, Donnez J, Dolmans MM. Role of apoptosis and autophagy in ovarian follicle pool decline in children and women diagnosed with benign or malignant extra-ovarian conditions. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:75-88. [PMID: 36346333 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Which biological mechanisms are responsible for physiological ovarian reserve decline owing to aging, or pathological follicle depletion triggered by inflammation or a pro-oxidant environment throughout a woman's lifetime? SUMMARY ANSWER Ovarian follicle pool size is modulated by both apoptosis and autophagy, the first responsible for its physiological decline over time and increasing in the event of prior chemotherapy in children, and the latter playing a major role in physiological ovarian follicle pool diminution before puberty. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Among the different pathways of controlled cell death, apoptosis and autophagy are implicated in follicle loss. Apoptosis participates in eliminating damaged follicles, such as those impaired by chemotherapy (CHT), but its involvement in physiological age-related follicle decline is less well understood. Autophagy has proved crucial in follicle quiescence maintenance in murine models, but its contribution to human follicle pool modulation is still unclear. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This retrospective study included 84 patients with benign or malignant extra-ovarian conditions aged between 1 and 35 years, with ovarian tissue stored for histological analyses at the time of cryopreservation (between 2012 and 2021) at a tertiary care center. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Ovarian fragments were used for the following analyses: hematoxylin and eosin staining for follicle count and classification; cleaved caspase-3 immunostaining to identify follicle apoptosis; and microtubule-associated proteins 1A/1B light chain 3B immunolabeling to detect follicle autophagy. Transmission electron microscopy was also carried out to investigate ultrastructural features of oocytes and granulosa cells. All analyses stratified patients by age, menarchal status (premenarchal = 32; postmenarchal = 52), potentially gonadotoxic CHT before cryopreservation (n = 14), presence of endometriosis and use of hormonal treatment. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Premenarchal patients had a larger follicle pool in terms of total follicle density [mean, range 4979.98 (342.2-21789) versus 918.8 (26.18-3983), P < 0.001], but higher rates of morphologically abnormal [8.52 (0-25.37)% versus 3.54 (0-17.5)%, P < 0.001] and atretic [15.8 (0‒31.85)% versus 10.6 (0-33.33)%, P < 0.01] follicles than postmenarchal subjects. Apoptosis rates did not change with increasing age [27.94 (0-93.2)% in prepubertal subjects and 29.5 (0-100)% in postpubertal subjects], but autophagic follicles were around 10 times more common in premenarchal than postmenarchal subjects [10.21 (0-62.3)% versus 1.34 (0-25)%, P < 0.001], playing a crucial role in age-related follicle decline and elimination of 'abnormal' follicles, that are rarely seen after menarche. The impact of diagnosis and previous CHT varied according to age. In premenarchal patients with previous CHT, significantly more apoptotic [40.22 (0-100)% versus 26.79 (0-87)%, P < 0.05] and fewer abnormal [3.84 (0-10-76)% versus 9.83 (0-25.37)%, P < 0.01] follicles were detected than in subjects with no CHT prior to ovarian tissue cryopreservation, suggesting a direct effect on follicle elimination, especially of those with abnormalities. In postmenarchal subjects with previous CHT, quiescent follicle rates were lower than in patients with no CHT before tissue freezing [71.57 (0-100)% versus 85.89 (50-100)%, P < 0.05], suggesting accelerated follicle activation and growth. Moreover, increased autophagic activity was observed in the event of a cancer diagnosis compared to benign conditions after puberty [26.27 (0-100)% versus 9.48 (0-29.41)%, respectively, P < 0.05]. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The impact of specific CHT protocols could not be investigated since the group of patients with previous CHT was highly heterogeneous. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study yields a deeper understanding of regulation of the follicle pool decline, showing for the first time that both apoptosis and autophagy pathways are involved in physiological follicle depletion, the latter being crucial before puberty. Moreover, our data showed a different response to non-physiological damage according to age, with higher apoptosis rates only in premenarchal subjects with previous CHT, confirming that this pathway is activated by drugs known to induce DNA damage in oocytes, such as alkylating agents, but not by cancer itself. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by grants from the Fonds National de la Recherche Scientifique de Belgique (F.R.S.-FNRS/FRIA FC29657 awarded to L.C., CDR J.0063.20 and grant 5/4/150/5 awarded to M.M.D.), grants from the Fondation contre le Cancer (grant 2018-042 awarded to A.Ca.), the Fondazione Comunitaria del Varesotto and Provincia di Varese ('Amalia Griffini' Fellowship in Gynecology and Obstetrics awarded to A.Ce.), Fonds Spéciaux de Recherche, Fondation St Luc and donations from the Ferrero family. The authors have no competing interests to declare. TRIAL REGISTRAION NUMBER N/A.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Cacciottola
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - A Camboni
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Anatomopathology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - A Cernogoraz
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, F. Del Ponte Hospital, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - J Donnez
- Society for Research into Infertility, Brussels, Belgium.,Professor EM, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - M M Dolmans
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Hossay C, Tramacere F, Cacciottola L, Camboni A, Squifflet JL, Donnez J, Dolmans MM. Follicle outcomes in human ovarian tissue: effect of freezing, culture, and grafting. Fertil Steril 2023; 119:135-145. [PMID: 36481098 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.09.360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the effect of freezing, in vitro culture (IVC) and grafting to chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) on follicle outcomes in human ovarian tissue. DESIGN An experimental study. SETTING University-based research laboratory. PATIENTS Fresh and cryopreserved ovarian tissue from 10 patients was donated to research with their consent and institutional review board approval. INTERVENTIONS Fresh and frozen-thawed ovarian cortical pieces were in vitro-cultured and compared (fresh-IVC vs FT-IVC). The FT-IVC fragments were then examined against fragments grafted to CAM (FT-CAM). After both IVC and CAM grafting, ovarian cortical pieces (4×2×1 mm3) were analyzed on days 0, 1, and 6. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Follicle analyses included histology (count and classification) and immunohistochemistry (Ki67 [proliferation], caspase-3 [apoptosis], 1A and 1B light chain 3B [autophagy], p-Akt, FOXO1, and p-rpS6 [PI3K activation]). Droplet digital polymerase chain reaction further explored expression of PI3K pathway- and oocyte-related genes in tissue sections. RESULTS No major differences were detected between fresh-IVC and FT-IVC tissues in any conducted analyses. Although a significant drop was observed in primordial follicle (PF) proportions in the fresh-IVC and FT-IVC groups (d0 vs. d6, P<.002), they held steady in the FT-CAM group (d0 vs. d6, P>.05). The PF rates were also significantly higher in the FT-CAM group than the FT-IVC group on d6 (P=.02). Importantly, avian erythrocytes were already present in 30% of implants from d1. Apoptotic and autophagic follicle rates increased during IVC (P<.008), but remained significantly lower in the FT-CAM group (P<.01), confirming superior follicle preservation in CAM-grafted tissue. Upregulation of the PI3K/FOXO pathway was established in the IVC groups, demonstrating PF activation, whereas significant pathway downregulation was detected in the FT-CAM group (P<.03). The droplet digital polymerase chain reaction tests confirmed oocyte growth during IVC and follicle autophagy in all groups; however, the PI3K pathway appeared to be differentially modulated in tissues and follicles. CONCLUSIONS In vitro culture induces PF depletion with no additional impact of freezing. Grafting to CAM preserves the PF pool by curbing follicle activation, apoptosis, and autophagy, probably thanks to rapid graft revascularization and/or the circulating embryonic antimüllerian hormone. These findings highlight the importance of enhancing neoangiogenesis in ovarian grafts and investigating the potential benefits of administering antimüllerian hormone to prevent PF burnout.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camille Hossay
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Francesca Tramacere
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Luciana Cacciottola
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alessandra Camboni
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium; Anatomopathology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jean-Luc Squifflet
- Gynecology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jacques Donnez
- Society for Research into Infertility, Brussels, Belgium; Professor Emeritus, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marie-Madeleine Dolmans
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium; Gynecology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Jiang G, Zhang L, Zhao J, Li L, Huang Z, Wang Z. Dynamic Autophagy Map in Mouse Female Germ Cells Throughout the Fetal to Postnatal Life. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:169-180. [PMID: 35501593 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-00940-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Autophagy plays vital roles in mouse female germ cells, but the potential mechanism is largely unknown. In this study, by interrogating single-cell RNA-seq dataset, we investigated the dynamic expression of autophagy-related genes in seven types of germ cells (mitosis, pre-leptotene, leptotene, zygotene, pachytene, diplotene, and dictyate) and discovered stage-specific autophagy-related genes. Using immunofluorescence (IF) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), autophagy activity and autophagosome numbers were revealed from mitosis to follicular assembly (E12.5 (embryonic day 12.5) to P5 (postnatal day 5)). Furthermore, single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) was performed to validate the autophagy kinetics from E12.5 to P5. Our study proved that the mitosis, diplotene, and dictyate female germ cells had relatively higher autophagy activity among the seven subtypes. In summary, our work provided an autophagy map, suggesting that autophagy was complicated in mouse female germ cell development from the fetal to postnatal life, which paved a new insight for deciphering the autophagy regulatory networks for cell-fate transition and female infertility issues like primary ovarian insufficiency (POI).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gurong Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Jiexiang Zhao
- Dongguan People's Hospital, Southern Medical University, Dongguan, 523059, China.,Department of Developmental Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Lin Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Zhenqin Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Zhijian Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
He H, Wang J, Mou X, Liu X, Li Q, Zhong M, Luo B, Yu Z, Zhang J, Xu T, Dou C, Wu D, Qing W, Wu L, Zhou K, Fan Z, Wang T, Hu T, Zhang X, Zhou J, Miao YL. Selective autophagic degradation of ACLY (ATP citrate lyase) maintains citrate homeostasis and promotes oocyte maturation. Autophagy 2023; 19:163-179. [PMID: 35404187 PMCID: PMC9809967 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2022.2063005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Macroautophagy/autophagy is a cellular and energy homeostatic mechanism that contributes to maintain the number of primordial follicles, germ cell survival, and anti-ovarian aging. However, it remains unknown whether autophagy in granulosa cells affects oocyte maturation. Here, we show a clear tendency of reduced autophagy level in human granulosa cells from women of advanced maternal age, implying a potential negative correlation between autophagy levels and oocyte quality. We therefore established a co-culture system and show that either pharmacological inhibition or genetic ablation of autophagy in granulosa cells negatively affect oocyte quality and fertilization ability. Moreover, our metabolomics analysis indicates that the adverse impact of autophagy impairment on oocyte quality is mediated by downregulated citrate levels, while exogenous supplementation of citrate can significantly restore the oocyte maturation. Mechanistically, we found that ACLY (ATP citrate lyase), which is a crucial enzyme catalyzing the cleavage of citrate, was preferentially associated with K63-linked ubiquitin chains and recognized by the autophagy receptor protein SQSTM1/p62 for selective autophagic degradation. In human follicles, the autophagy level in granulosa cells was downregulated with maternal aging, accompanied by decreased citrate in the follicular fluid, implying a potential correlation between citrate metabolism and oocyte quality. We also show that elevated citrate levels in porcine follicular fluid promote oocyte maturation. Collectively, our data reveal that autophagy in granulosa cells is a beneficial mechanism to maintain a certain degree of citrate by selectively targeting ACLY during oocyte maturation.Abbreviations: 3-MA: 3-methyladenine; ACLY: ATP citrate lyase; AMA: advanced maternal age; CG: cortical granule; CHX: cycloheximide; CQ: chloroquine; CS: citrate synthase; COCs: cumulus-oocyte-complexes; GCM: granulosa cell monolayer; GV: germinal vesicle; MII: metaphase II stage of meiosis; PB1: first polar body; ROS: reactive oxygen species; shRNA: small hairpin RNA; SQSTM1/p62: sequestosome 1; TCA: tricarboxylic acid; TOMM20/TOM20: translocase of outer mitochondrial membrane 20; UBA: ubiquitin-associated domain; Ub: ubiquitin; WT: wild-type.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hainan He
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Junling Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Huangshi Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei Polytechnic, Edong Healthcare Group, Huangshi, Hubei, China
| | - Xingmei Mou
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Qiao Li
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Mingyue Zhong
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Bingbing Luo
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Huangshi Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei Polytechnic, Edong Healthcare Group, Huangshi, Hubei, China
| | - Zhisheng Yu
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Tian Xu
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Chengli Dou
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Danya Wu
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Wei Qing
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Linhui Wu
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Kai Zhou
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhengang Fan
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Tingting Wang
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Taotao Hu
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xia Zhang
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jilong Zhou
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,CONTACT Jilong Zhou Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei430070, China
| | - Yi-Liang Miao
- Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (Huazhong Agricultural University), Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Yi-Liang Miao College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430070, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Role of autophagy in male and female fertility. CURRENT OPINION IN PHYSIOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cophys.2022.100611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
|
29
|
Chu L, Zhong H, Zhu Y, Li L, Wei J, Huang L, Xue C. Association of ATG7 gene polymorphisms with microscopic polyangiitis in Chinese individuals. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:7239-7251. [PMID: 36398269 PMCID: PMC9641429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) is a type of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-related vasculitis. Autophagy-related gene 7 (ATG7) protects against complicated disorder states in model organisms, but the way ATG7 dysfunction contributes to MPA remains elusive. This investigation assessed the impacts of ATG7 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) in China. A total of 211 controls and 214 MPA patients were recruited and analyzed. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and high-throughput sequencing were adopted to detect the ATG7 SNPs (rs75492008, rs2594966, rs6442260 and rs8154), and stratification analysis, different genetic models and differences in allele and genotype frequencies were evaluated. Haplotype evaluation was performed after linkage disequilibrium (LD) analyses, and interactions between alleles were assessed. Generalized multifactor dimensionality reduction (GMDR) was adopted to analyze SNP-SNP interactions among the four ATG7 SNPs and phosphatidylinositol-4, 5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit alpha (PIK3CA) and unc-nc-like autophagy activating kinase 1 (ULK1) SNPs previously studied by our team. Relationships between ATG7 polymorphisms, disease activity biomarkers and therapeutic effects in MPA were analyzed. Sex stratification analysis of the rs2594966 GG genotype with codominant and recessive models showed OR=3.42, 95% CI [1.19-9.80], P=0.041 and OR=3.31, 95% CI [1.23-8.90], P=0.012, respectively. Haplotype G-G-C-T was related to an increased MPA risk (OR=1.5, 95% CI [0.999-2.266], P=0.029). Permutation testing of GMDR suggested that ATG7 rs6442260 and rs8154, PIK3CA rs1607237, and ULK1 rs4964879 might interact with each other in MPA development (P<0.05). Among 214 MPA patients, 79 available complete follow-up clinical datasets were gathered from September 2009 to October 2020, showing that rs75492008 and rs4964879 affect the correlation between C-reactive protein (CRP) and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) in MPA activity. Patients with rs8154 TT and rs1607237 CC genotypes had better clinical treatment effects (P<0.05). Gene polymorphisms may be related to MPA in China, exhibiting correlation with MPA activity indicators, treatment and prognosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liepeng Chu
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical UniversityNanning 530000, Guangxi, China
| | - Huan Zhong
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical UniversityNanning 530000, Guangxi, China
| | - Yan Zhu
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical UniversityNanning 530000, Guangxi, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South ChinaHengyang 421000, Hunan, China
| | - Lizhen Li
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical UniversityNanning 530000, Guangxi, China
| | - Jingsi Wei
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical UniversityNanning 530000, Guangxi, China
| | - Li Huang
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical UniversityNanning 530000, Guangxi, China
| | - Chao Xue
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical UniversityNanning 530000, Guangxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Xiang Y, Jiang L, Gou J, Sun Y, Zhang D, Xin X, Song Z, Huang J. Chronic unpredictable mild stress-induced mouse ovarian insufficiency by interrupting lipid homeostasis in the ovary. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:933674. [PMID: 36158217 PMCID: PMC9493201 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.933674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian insufficiency results from a number of disorders, and a certain causal relationship between psychological stress and ovarian insufficiency has been reported, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In our study, C57BL/6J female mice were subjected to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS), and depression-like mice were selected and identified according to the behavioral tests. The defective ovarian follicle development, low 17 β-estradiol (E2), and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels, which were consistent with the clinical characteristics of ovarian insufficiency, indicated that depression-like mice may be used to assess the effects of psychological stress on female reproductive function. To investigate a possible mechanism, lipid homeostasis of the ovary was detected by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis, and the decreased abundance of cholesteryl ester (CE 24:4) was supported to be associated with the downregulated E2. Moreover, granulosa cells did undergo more apoptosis in response to psychological stress, which was caused by downregulated Bcl2 and Bcl2/Bax in granulosa cells. Additionally, the disorder of cell death and growth-related pathways in depression-like mouse ovaries was confirmed by RNA-seq analysis. Taken together, this study will provide a better understanding of the female reproductive problem under psychological stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongjie Xiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Lin Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Junjie Gou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Qingdao Women and Children’s Hospital, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yibo Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Dongyu Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xigeng Xin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center Hospital of Yantai, Yantai, China
| | - Zhenhua Song
- School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- *Correspondence: Jiaojiao Huang, ; Zhenhua Song,
| | - Jiaojiao Huang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
- *Correspondence: Jiaojiao Huang, ; Zhenhua Song,
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
The programmed death of fetal oocytes and the correlated surveillance mechanisms. REPRODUCTIVE AND DEVELOPMENTAL MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.1097/rd9.0000000000000016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
|
32
|
Dou X, Jin X, Chen X, Zhou Q, Chen H, Wen M, Chen W. Bu-Shen-Ning-Xin decoction alleviates premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) by regulating autophagy of granule cells through activating PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Gynecol Endocrinol 2022; 38:754-764. [PMID: 35989579 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2022.2112941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the therapeutic effects of Bu-Shen-Ning-Xin decoction (BSNXD) on POI and the underlying mechanism. METHODS VCD was used to induce the in vivo and in vitro POI model. HE staining was used to evaluate the pathological state of ovarian tissues. ELISA was used to detect the production of hormones in the serum and granule cells (GCs). An immunohistochemical assay was used to determine the expression of ATG7 and p-AKT in the ovarian tissues. The number of oocytes in POI rats was counted. The mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) in oocytes and GCs was detected by flow cytometry. A Western blot assay was used to measure the expression of AKT, p-AKT, p-mTOR, mTOR, S6K, p-S6K, ULK1, p-ULK1, Beclin-1, Bcl-2, LC3-II, LC3-I, ATG7, and cleaved Caspase3. The numbers of autophagosomes were detected by transmission electron microscope and autophagic flux assay. The CCK-8 assay was used to detect the cell viability. RESULTS Decreased primary follicles in the ovarian tissues, elevated concentration of FSH, and LH, suppressed concentration of E2 and AMH in the serum, reduced number of oocytes, and mitochondrial dysfunction in oocytes induced by VCD were significantly reversed by BSNXD. Activated autophagy state and inhibited PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway stimulated by VCD in both ovarian tissues and GCs were dramatically reversed by BSNXD. The protective effect of BSNXD on VCD-treated GCs was abolished by LY294002, an inhibitor of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. CONCLUSION Our data revealed that BSNXD alleviated POI by regulating autophagy of granule cells through activating PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqing Dou
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xin Jin
- Department of Massage, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xingbei Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Qun Zhou
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Hanyu Chen
- School of Rehabilitation Science, Nanjing Normal University of Special Education, Nanjing City, Jiangsu Province,China
| | - Mingxiao Wen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Wenjun Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Liu G, Zheng Y, Gao H, Cui W, Zhao F, Liu N, Xiaorong T, Jiang Z. Expression of ERβ induces Bovine Ovarian Granulosa Cell Autophagy via the AKT/mTOR Pathway. Reprod Domest Anim 2022; 57:989-998. [PMID: 35612957 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The aim of our study was to determine whether silencing or overexpression of Estrogen Receptor β (ERβ) regulates cell proliferation, steroidogenesis, autophagy and signaling pathways in bovine ovarian granulosa cells in vitro. In this study, bovine ovarian granulosa cells (BGCs) were cultured and transfected with ERβ siRNA (si-ERβ) or a plasmid overexpressing ERβ (oe-ERβ), and CCK-8 kit was used to assess cell proliferation. Real-time PCR was used to measure gene transcription. Western blotting was used to measure protein expression, and a specific kit was used to measure the production of steroid hormones. The results showed the expression level of ERβ affects BGC proliferation according to the gene transcription levels of FSHR, CYP19A1, HSD3β1 and STAR and the production of E2 and P4. ERβ was identified as an important nuclear receptor that induced BGC autophagy based on the mRNA and protein expression of autophagy-related genes. Furthermore, the role of ERβ in BGC autophagy was confirmed through treatment with rapamycin (RAPA) or 3-methyladenine (3-MA) in BGCs by cotransfection with si-ERβ or oe-ERβ in BGCs. The results related to AKT/mTOR signaling and phosphorylation suggested that ERβ induces BGC autophagy through attenuating AKT/mTOR signaling. In summary, this study demonstrates that silencing or overexpression of ERβ regulates BGC proliferation and function and induces BGC autophagy by targeting AKT/mTOR signaling. These data reveal a novel regulatory mechanism of autophagy via ERβ and provide insights into the role of autophagy in BGCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guangyu Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic, Breeding and Reproduction in Shaanxi Province, Northwestern A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Yuxin Zheng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic, Breeding and Reproduction in Shaanxi Province, Northwestern A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Huimin Gao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic, Breeding and Reproduction in Shaanxi Province, Northwestern A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Wenfei Cui
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic, Breeding and Reproduction in Shaanxi Province, Northwestern A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Fan Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic, Breeding and Reproduction in Shaanxi Province, Northwestern A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Ning Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic, Breeding and Reproduction in Shaanxi Province, Northwestern A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Tang Xiaorong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic, Breeding and Reproduction in Shaanxi Province, Northwestern A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Zhongliang Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic, Breeding and Reproduction in Shaanxi Province, Northwestern A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Fan H, He J, Bai Y, He Q, Zhang T, Zhang J, Yang G, Xu Z, Hu J, Yao G. Baicalin improves the functions of granulosa cells and the ovary in aged mice through the mTOR signaling pathway. J Ovarian Res 2022; 15:34. [PMID: 35300716 PMCID: PMC8932175 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-022-00965-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The mammalian follicle is the basic functional unit of the ovary, and its normal development is required to obtaining oocytes capable of fertilization. As women get older or decline in ovarian function due to certain pathological factors, the growth and development of follicles becomes abnormal, which ultimately leads to infertility and other related female diseases. Kuntai capsules are currently used in clinical practice to improve ovarian function, and they contain the natural compound Baicalin, which is a natural compound with important biological activities. At present, the role and mechanism of Baicalin in the development of ovarian follicles is unclear. Methods Human primary granulosa cells collected from follicular fluid, and then cultured and treated with Baicalin or its normal control, assessed for viability, subjected to RT-PCR, western blotting, flow cytometry, and hormone analyses. The estrus cycle and oocytes of CD-1 mice were studied after Baicalin administration and compared with controls. Ovaries were collected from the mice and subjected to hematoxylin-eosin staining and immunohistochemistry analysis. Results We showed that Baicalin had a dose-dependent effect on granulosa cells cultured in vitro. A low concentration of Baicalin (for example, 10 μM) helped to maintain the viability of granulosa cells; however, at a concentration exceeding 50 μM, it exerted a toxic effect. A low concentration significantly improved the viability of granulosa cells and inhibited cell apoptosis, which may be related to the resultant upregulation of Bcl-2 expression and downregulation of Bax and Caspase 3. By constructing a hydrogen peroxide-induced cell oxidative stress damage model, we found that Baicalin reversed the cell damage caused by hydrogen peroxide. In addition, Baicalin increased the secretion of estradiol and progesterone by upregulating P450arom and stAR. The results of the in vivo experiment showed that the intragastric administration of Baicalin to aged mice improved the estrous cycle and oocyte quality. Furthermore, we observed that Baicalin enhanced the viability of granulosa cells through the mTOR pathway, which in turn improve ovarian function. Conclusion These results indicate that Baicalin could improve the viability of ovarian granulosa cells and the secretion of steroid hormones and thus could help to improve degenerating ovarian function and delay ovarian aging. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13048-022-00965-7.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huiying Fan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Jiahuan He
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yucheng Bai
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Qina He
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Tongwei Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Junya Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Guang Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Ziwen Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Jingyi Hu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Guidong Yao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China. .,Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Liu N, Wang S, Yao Q, Li Y, Hu H, Xiaorong T, Ran H, Price CA, Jiang Z. Activin A attenuates apoptosis of granulosa cells in atretic follicles through ERβ-induced autophagy. Reprod Domest Anim 2022; 57:625-634. [PMID: 35244300 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
It is well known that about 99% of ovarian follicles in mammals suffer from a degenerative process known as atresia, which is a huge waste of genetic resource in female animals. Studies have shown that activin A (ACT-A) is located in ovarian granulosa cells and has different effects in granulosa cell depending on species. Although granulosa cells play a critical role during follicular atresia, the mechanism of action of ACT-A in bovine ovarian granulosa cells (BGC) is poorly understood. In this study, we firstly determined the apoptosis of BGCs isolated from growth follicles and atretic follicles, respectively. Then, BGC isolated from atretic follicles were used as a model to elucidate the role of ACT-A in cattle ovary. The results showed that apoptosis occurred in both growing follicles and atretic follicles, and the percentage of apoptotic cells in atretic follicles was higher than that in growing follicles. The current results indicated that ACT-A can attenuate apoptosis of BGC through maintaining the function of BGC in atretic follicles. Increased ERβ induced by ACT-A promoted BGC autophagy but had no effect on apoptosis. In summary, this study suggests that ACT-A attenuates BGC apoptosis in atretic follicles by ERβ-mediated autophagy signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ning Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic, Breeding and Reproduction in Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shiyou Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic, Breeding and Reproduction in Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qichun Yao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic, Breeding and Reproduction in Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuanyou Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic, Breeding and Reproduction in Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hai Hu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic, Breeding and Reproduction in Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Tang Xiaorong
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic, Breeding and Reproduction in Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Haohan Ran
- College of Animal Science and Animal Medicine, Tianjin Agricultural University, Jintong Road, Xiqing District, 300380, Tianjin, China
| | - Christopher A Price
- Centre de recherche en reproduction et fertilité, Faculté de médecine vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 7C6, Canada
| | - Zhongliang Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetic, Breeding and Reproduction in Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, 712100, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Watanabe R, Takano T, Sasaki S, Obara M, Umeno K, Sato H, Kimura N. Retention of higher fertility depending on ovarian follicle reserve in cystine-glutamate transporter gene-deficient mice. Histochem Cell Biol 2022; 157:347-357. [PMID: 35239019 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-022-02077-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The cystine-glutamate transporter (xCT) is responsible for the transport of cystine into cells. We recently found that xCT-deficient (xCTKO) aged mice maintained a higher rate of ovulation and ovarian weight compared with wild-type (WT) mice. It has been reported that a xCT deficiency in cultured cells induces autophagy through the suppression of mTOR survival pathways. We have previously reported that starvation in neonatal mice increases the number of primordial follicles with concomitant autophagy activation. Therefore, we investigated age-related changes in follicle reserve and fertility in xCTKO mice and clarified whether the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway contributes to this. The numbers of offspring in the xCTKO mice aged 10 and 12 months were significantly higher than those in the WT mice. The primordial follicle numbers in xCTKO neonatal mice tended to be higher than WT mice during all times evaluated. In contrast, the primary follicle number was significantly lower in the xCTKO mice at 60 h after birth. The expression of p-AKT, which promotes follicle development, was significantly lower in xCTKO mice than that in WT mice, whereas the expression ratios of LC3-II/LC3-I were significantly higher. The xCTKO mice had significantly more primordial follicles than WT mice at 2 months of age and showed a similar trend at 13-15 months of age. These results suggest that the maintenance of fertility in aged xCTKO mice can be attributed to high follicle reserve after puberty by suppression of follicle activation during the neonatal period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ren Watanabe
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Yamagata University, 1-23 Wakaba-machi, Tsuruoka, 997-8555, Japan
| | - Tomoe Takano
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Yamagata University, 1-23 Wakaba-machi, Tsuruoka, 997-8555, Japan
| | - Sho Sasaki
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Yamagata University, 1-23 Wakaba-machi, Tsuruoka, 997-8555, Japan
| | - Mizuho Obara
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Yamagata University, 1-23 Wakaba-machi, Tsuruoka, 997-8555, Japan
| | - Ken Umeno
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Yamagata University, 1-23 Wakaba-machi, Tsuruoka, 997-8555, Japan
| | - Hideyo Sato
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Naoko Kimura
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Yamagata University, 1-23 Wakaba-machi, Tsuruoka, 997-8555, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Abstract
The proteostasis network (PN) regulates protein synthesis, folding, and degradation and is critical for the health and function of all cells. The PN has been extensively studied in the context of aging and age-related diseases, and loss of proteostasis is regarded as a major contributor to many age-associated disorders. In contrast to somatic tissues, an important feature of germ cells is their ability to maintain a healthy proteome across generations. Accumulating evidence has now revealed multiple layers of PN regulation that support germ cell function, determine reproductive capacity during aging, and prioritize reproduction at the expense of somatic health. Here, we review recent insights into these different modes of regulation and their implications for reproductive and somatic aging.
Collapse
|
38
|
Park CJ, Oh JE, Feng J, Cho YM, Qiao H, Ko C. Lifetime changes of the oocyte pool: Contributing factors with a focus on ovulatory inflammation. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2022; 49:16-25. [PMID: 35255655 PMCID: PMC8923630 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2021.04917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammalian species, females are born with a number of oocytes exceeding what they release via ovulation. In humans, an average girl is born with over a thousand times more oocytes than she will ovulate in her lifetime. The reason for having such an excessive number of oocytes in a neonatal female ovary is currently unknown. However, it is well established that the oocyte number decreases throughout the entire lifetime until the ovary loses them all. In this review, data published in the past 80 years were used to assess the current knowledge regarding the changing number of oocytes in humans and mice, as well as the reported factors that contribute to the decline of oocyte numbers. Briefly, a collective estimation indicates that an average girl is born with approximately 600,000 oocytes, which is 2,000 times more than the number of oocytes that she will ovulate in her lifetime. The oocyte number begins to decrease immediately after birth and is reduced to half of the initial number by puberty and almost zero by age 50 years. Multiple factors that are either intrinsic or extrinsic to the ovary contribute to the decline of the oocyte number. The inflammation caused by the ovulatory luteinizing hormone surge is discussed as a potential contributing factor to the decline of the oocyte pool during the reproductive lifespan.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chan Jin Park
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL ,USA.,Epivara Inc., Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Ji-Eun Oh
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL ,USA
| | - Jianan Feng
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL ,USA
| | - Yoon Min Cho
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL ,USA
| | - Huanyu Qiao
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL ,USA
| | - CheMyong Ko
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL ,USA
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Gorsi B, Hernandez E, Moore MB, Moriwaki M, Chow CY, Coelho E, Taylor E, Lu C, Walker A, Touraine P, Nelson LM, Cooper AR, Mardis ER, Rajkovic A, Yandell M, Welt CK. Causal and Candidate Gene Variants in a Large Cohort of Women With Primary Ovarian Insufficiency. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:685-714. [PMID: 34718612 PMCID: PMC9006976 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT A genetic etiology likely accounts for the majority of unexplained primary ovarian insufficiency (POI). OBJECTIVE We hypothesized that heterozygous rare variants and variants in enhanced categories are associated with POI. DESIGN The study was an observational study. SETTING Subjects were recruited at academic institutions. PATIENTS Subjects from Boston (n = 98), the National Institutes of Health and Washington University (n = 98), Pittsburgh (n = 20), Italy (n = 43), and France (n = 32) were diagnosed with POI (amenorrhea with an elevated follicle-stimulating hormone level). Controls were recruited for health in old age or were from the 1000 Genomes Project (total n = 233). INTERVENTION We performed whole exome sequencing (WES), and data were analyzed using a rare variant scoring method and a Bayes factor-based framework for identifying genes harboring pathogenic variants. We performed functional studies on identified genes that were not previously implicated in POI in a D. melanogaster model. MAIN OUTCOME Genes with rare pathogenic variants and gene sets with increased burden of deleterious variants were identified. RESULTS Candidate heterozygous variants were identified in known genes and genes with functional evidence. Gene sets with increased burden of deleterious alleles included the categories transcription and translation, DNA damage and repair, meiosis and cell division. Variants were found in novel genes from the enhanced categories. Functional evidence supported 7 new risk genes for POI (USP36, VCP, WDR33, PIWIL3, NPM2, LLGL1, and BOD1L1). CONCLUSIONS Candidate causative variants were identified through WES in women with POI. Aggregating clinical data and genetic risk with a categorical approach may expand the genetic architecture of heterozygous rare gene variants causing risk for POI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bushra Gorsi
- Utah Center for Genetic Discovery, Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Edgar Hernandez
- Utah Center for Genetic Discovery, Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Marvin Barry Moore
- Utah Center for Genetic Discovery, Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Mika Moriwaki
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Clement Y Chow
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Emily Coelho
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Elaine Taylor
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Claire Lu
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Amanda Walker
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Philippe Touraine
- Sorbonne Universite, Hôpital Universitaire Pitié Salpêtrière-Charles Foix, Service d’Endocrinologie et Médecine de la Reproduction, Centre de Maladies Endocriniennes Rares de la Croissance et du Développement, Centre de Pathologies Gynécologiques Rares, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Elaine R Mardis
- Institute for Genomic Medicine, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Aleksander Rajkovic
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mark Yandell
- Utah Center for Genetic Discovery, Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Corrine K Welt
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Cui J, Li Y, Zhang W, Qian H, Zhang Z, Xu K. Alginic acid induces oxidative stress-mediated hormone secretion disorder, apoptosis and autophagy in mouse granulosa cells and ovaries. Toxicology 2022; 467:153099. [PMID: 35066102 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2022.153099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Alginic acid (AA) is a kind of polysaccharide extracted from brown seaweeds and has been widely used in food industry. Certain positive effects of AA, such as anti-inflammation and anti-allergy, have been reported. Nevertheless, as a potential chemical contaminant of the environment, its impact on female reproductive system remains to be investigated. The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of AA on ovary and to investigate the further cellular mechanism. Primarily, in vitro cultured mouse ovary granulosa cells (GCs) were treated with AA at a concentration of 10μM for 24 h. The cells and supernatant were collected and subjected to further measures. The results demonstrated that after being treated with 10μM AA for 24 h the levels of estradiol and progesterone in supernatant were down-regulated. And excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) and declined antioxidant capacity were also determined. Additionally, a large number of apoptotic bodies and autophagic vesicles were found in the experimental cells, and the mitochondria-mediated apoptotic pathway was demonstrated to play a main role in GCs apoptosis. To further investigate the effect of AA on ovary, the female ICR mice were administered with AA (10 mg/ kg bodyweight) intraperitoneally for successive 35 days, and the estrus phase was recorded simultaneously. After exposure, the ovaries and blood samples were collected for further analysis. The results revealed that the estrus period of the mice was shortened and the interestrus period was extended after being treated with AA for 35 days. At the organismal level, the numbers of antral follicles and atresia follicles increased and the levels of pro-apoptosis and autophagy-related proteins were detected upregulated after AA treatment. Taken together, both in vivo and in vitro data suggested that AA has toxicity on female reproduction by disrupting estrogen production and inducing oxidative stress, mitochondria-mediated apoptosis and autophagy. Our results provide new scientific basis and the concern for controlling the increasing use of AA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jieyu Cui
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Yankun Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Wenqiang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Hongrun Qian
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling Shaanxi, 712100, China
| | - Zhiying Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling Shaanxi, 712100, China.
| | - Kun Xu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling Shaanxi, 712100, China.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Umeno K, Sasaki A, Kimura N. The impact of oocyte death on mouse primordial follicle formation and ovarian reserve. Reprod Med Biol 2022; 21:e12489. [PMID: 36329711 PMCID: PMC9623396 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ovaries, the source of oocytes, maintain the numbers of primordial follicles, develop oocytes for fertilization and embryonic development. Although it is well known that about two‐thirds of oocytes are lost during the formation of primordial follicles through cyst fragmentation and the aggregation of oocytes within the cyst, the mechanism responsible for this remains unclear. Methods We provide an overview of cell death that is associated with the oocyte cyst breakdown and primordial follicle assembly along with our recent findings for mice that had been treated with a TNFα ligand inhibitor. Main Findings It is generally accepted that apoptosis is the major mechanism responsible for the depletion of germ cells. In fact, a gene deficiency or the overexpression of apoptosis regulators can have a great effect on follicle numbers and/or fertility. Apoptosis, however, may not be the only cause of the large‐scale oocyte attrition during oocyte cyst breakdown, and other mechanisms, such as aggregation, may also be involved in this process. Conclusion The continued study of oocyte death during primordial follicle formation could lead to the development of novel strategies for manipulating the primordial follicle pool, leading to improved fertility by enhancing the ovarian reserve.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ken Umeno
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Agricultural Science Yamagata University Tsuruoka Japan
| | - Ayana Sasaki
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Agricultural Science Yamagata University Tsuruoka Japan
| | - Naoko Kimura
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Agricultural Science Yamagata University Tsuruoka Japan
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Wang M, Zeng L, Su P, Ma L, Zhang M, Zhang YZ. Autophagy: a multifaceted player in the fate of sperm. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 28:200-231. [PMID: 34967891 PMCID: PMC8889000 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autophagy is an intracellular catabolic process of degrading and recycling proteins and organelles to modulate various physiological and pathological events, including cell differentiation and development. Emerging data indicate that autophagy is closely associated with male reproduction, especially the biosynthetic and catabolic processes of sperm. Throughout the fate of sperm, a series of highly specialized cellular events occur, involving pre-testicular, testicular and post-testicular events. Nonetheless, the most fundamental question of whether autophagy plays a protective or harmful role in male reproduction, especially in sperm, remains unclear. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE We summarize the functional roles of autophagy in the pre-testicular (hypothalamic–pituitary–testis (HPG) axis), testicular (spermatocytogenesis, spermatidogenesis, spermiogenesis, spermiation) and post-testicular (sperm maturation and fertilization) processes according to the timeline of sperm fate. Additionally, critical mechanisms of the action and clinical impacts of autophagy on sperm are identified, laying the foundation for the treatment of male infertility. SEARCH METHODS In this narrative review, the PubMed database was used to search peer-reviewed publications for summarizing the functional roles of autophagy in the fate of sperm using the following terms: ‘autophagy’, ‘sperm’, ‘hypothalamic–pituitary–testis axis’, ‘spermatogenesis’, ‘spermatocytogenesis’, ‘spermatidogenesis’, ‘spermiogenesis’, ‘spermiation’, ‘sperm maturation’, ‘fertilization’, ‘capacitation’ and ‘acrosome’ in combination with autophagy-related proteins. We also performed a bibliographic search for the clinical impact of the autophagy process using the keywords of autophagy inhibitors such as ‘bafilomycin A1’, ‘chloroquine’, ‘hydroxychloroquine’, ‘3-Methyl Adenine (3-MA)’, ‘lucanthone’, ‘wortmannin’ and autophagy activators such as ‘rapamycin’, ‘perifosine’, ‘metformin’ in combination with ‘disease’, ‘treatment’, ‘therapy’, ‘male infertility’ and equivalent terms. In addition, reference lists of primary and review articles were reviewed for additional relevant publications. All relevant publications until August 2021 were critically evaluated and discussed on the basis of relevance, quality and timelines. OUTCOMES (i) In pre-testicular processes, autophagy-related genes are involved in the regulation of the HPG axis; and (ii) in testicular processes, mTORC1, the main gate to autophagy, is crucial for spermatogonia stem cell (SCCs) proliferation, differentiation, meiotic progression, inactivation of sex chromosomes and spermiogenesis. During spermatidogenesis, autophagy maintains haploid round spermatid chromatoid body homeostasis for differentiation. During spermiogenesis, autophagy participates in acrosome biogenesis, flagella assembly, head shaping and the removal of cytoplasm from elongating spermatid. After spermatogenesis, through PDLIM1, autophagy orchestrates apical ectoplasmic specialization and basal ectoplasmic specialization to handle cytoskeleton assembly, governing spermatid movement and release during spermiation. In post-testicular processes, there is no direct evidence that autophagy participates in the process of capacitation. However, autophagy modulates the acrosome reaction, paternal mitochondria elimination and clearance of membranous organelles during fertilization. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Deciphering the roles of autophagy in the entire fate of sperm will provide valuable insights into therapies for diseases, especially male infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mei Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China.,Harvard Reproductive Endocrine Science Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Clinical Medicine Research Center of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health in Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Ling Zeng
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Ping Su
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Ling Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China.,Clinical Medicine Research Center of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health in Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Ming Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China.,Clinical Medicine Research Center of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health in Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| | - Yuan Zhen Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China.,Clinical Medicine Research Center of Prenatal Diagnosis and Birth Health in Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Tarekegn G, Strandberg E, Andonov S, Båge R, Ask-Gullstrand P, Rius-Vilarrasa E, Christensen J, Berglund B. Single-step genome-wide association study uncovers known and novel candidate genomic regions for endocrine and classical fertility traits in Swedish Red and Holstein dairy cows. Livest Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2021.104731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
|
44
|
Meiosis initiation: a story of two sexes in all creatures great and small. Biochem J 2021; 478:3791-3805. [PMID: 34709374 PMCID: PMC8589329 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20210412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Meiosis facilitates diversity across individuals and serves as a major driver of evolution. However, understanding how meiosis begins is complicated by fundamental differences that exist between sexes and species. Fundamental meiotic research is further hampered by a current lack of human meiotic cells lines. Consequently, much of what we know relies on data from model organisms. However, contextualising findings from yeast, worms, flies and mice can be challenging, due to marked differences in both nomenclature and the relative timing of meiosis. In this review, we set out to combine current knowledge of signalling and transcriptional pathways that control meiosis initiation across the sexes in a variety of organisms. Furthermore, we highlight the emerging links between meiosis initiation and oncogenesis, which might explain the frequent re-expression of normally silent meiotic genes in a variety of human cancers.
Collapse
|
45
|
Bhardwaj JK, Paliwal A, Saraf P, Sachdeva SN. Role of autophagy in follicular development and maintenance of primordial follicular pool in the ovary. J Cell Physiol 2021; 237:1157-1170. [PMID: 34668576 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The reproductive life span of the organism mainly depends on follicular development that maintains the primordial follicle pool in the cohort of follicles within the ovary. The total count of primordial follicles decreases with age due to ovulation and follicular atresia. Follicular atresia, a process of ovarian follicles degradation, mainly occurs via apoptosis, but recent studies also favor autophagy existence. Autophagy is a cellular and energy homeostatic response that helps to maintain the number of healthy primordial follicles, germ cell survival, and removal of corpus luteum remnants. But the excessive autophagic cell death changes both the quality and quantity of oocytes that ultimately affect female reproductive health. Autophagy regulation occurs by various autophagy-regulated genes like BECN1 and LC3-II (autophagy marker genes). Their abnormal regulation or mutation highly influences follicular development by alteration of primordial follicles formation, the decline in oocytes count, and germ cell loss. Various classical signaling pathways such as PI3K/AKT/mTOR, MAPK/ERK1/2, AMPK, and IRE1 are involved in granulosa and oocytes autophagy, while mTOR signaling is the primary mechanism. Along with basal level autophagy, chemical/hormone/stress-mediated autophagy also affects follicular development and female reproduction. In this review, we have primarily focused on granulosa cell and oocytes' autophagy, mechanism, and the role of autophagy determining marker genes in follicular development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jitender K Bhardwaj
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, Haryana, India
| | - Aakansha Paliwal
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, Haryana, India
| | - Priyanka Saraf
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, Haryana, India
| | - Som N Sachdeva
- Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology and Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, Haryana, India
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Kumariya S, Ubba V, Jha RK, Gayen JR. Autophagy in ovary and polycystic ovary syndrome: role, dispute and future perspective. Autophagy 2021; 17:2706-2733. [PMID: 34161185 PMCID: PMC8526011 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2021.1938914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a unification of endocrine and metabolic disorders and has become immensely prevalent among women of fertile age. The prime organ affected in PCOS is the ovary and its distressed functioning elicits disturbed reproductive outcomes. In the ovary, macroautophagy/autophagy performs a pivotal role in directing the chain of events starting from oocytes origin until its fertilization. Recent discoveries demonstrate a significant role of autophagy in the pathogenesis of PCOS. Defective autophagy in the follicular cells during different stages of follicles is observed in the PCOS ovary. Exploring different autophagy pathways provides a platform for predicting the possible cause of altered ovarian physiology in PCOS. In this review, we have emphasized autophagy's role in governing follicular development under normal circumstances and in PCOS, including significant abnormalities associated with PCOS such as anovulation, hyperandrogenemia, metabolic disturbances, and related abnormality. So far, few studies have linked autophagy and PCOS and propose its essential role in PCOS progression. However, detailed knowledge in this area is lacking. Here we have summarized the latest knowledge related to autophagy associated with PCOS. This review's main objective is to provide a background of autophagy in the ovary, its possible connection with PCOS and suggested a novel proposal for future studies to aid a better understanding of PCOS pathogenesis.Abbreviations: AE: androgen excess; AF: antral follicle; AKT/PKB: AKT serine/threonine kinase; AMH: anti-Mullerian hormone; AMPK: AMP-activated protein kinase; ATG: autophagy-related; BCL2: BCL2 apoptosis regulator; BECN1: beclin 1; BMP: bone morphogenetic protein; CASP3: caspase 3; CL: corpus luteum; CYP17A1/P450C17: cytochrome P450 family 17 subfamily A member 1; CYP19A1: cytochrome P450 family 19 subfamily A member 1; DHEA: dehydroepiandrosterone; EH: endometrial hyperplasia; FF: follicular fluid; FOXO: forkhead box O; FSH: follicle stimulating hormone; GC: granulosa cell; GDF: growth differentiation factor; HA: hyperandrogenemia; HMGB1: high mobility group box 1; IGF1: insulin like growth factor 1; INS: insulin; IR: insulin resistance; LHCGR/LHR: luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor; MAP1LC3B/LC3B: microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3 beta; MAPK/ERK: mitogen-activated protein kinase; MAPK8/JNK: mitogen-activated protein kinase 8; MTOR: mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase; MTORC: mechanistic target of rapamycin complex; NAFLD: nonalcoholic fatty liver disease; NFKB: nuclear factor kappa B; OLR1/LOX-1: oxidized low density lipoprotein receptor 1; oxLDL: oxidized low-density lipoproteins; PA: palmitic acid; PCOS: polycystic ovary syndrome; PF: primary follicle; PGC: primordial germ cell; PI3K: phosphoinositide 3-kinase; PMF: primordial follicle; ROS: reactive oxygen species; RP: resting pool; SIRT1: sirtuin 1; SQSTM1/p62: sequestosome 1; T2DM: type 2 diabetes mellitus; TC: theca cell; TUG1: taurine up-regulated 1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sanjana Kumariya
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Vaibhave Ubba
- Endocrinology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Rajesh K. Jha
- Endocrinology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, India
| | - Jiaur R. Gayen
- Pharmaceutics & Pharmacokinetics Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, India
- Pharmacology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Kasahara Y, Osuka S, Takasaki N, Bayasula, Koya Y, Nakanishi N, Murase T, Nakamura T, Goto M, Iwase A, Kajiyama H. Primate-specific POTE-actin gene could play a role in human folliculogenesis by controlling the proliferation of granulosa cells. Cell Death Discov 2021; 7:186. [PMID: 34285194 PMCID: PMC8292509 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-021-00566-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) often have a high prevalence of autoimmune disorders. To identify antigenic molecules associated with ovarian autoimmunity, we performed immunoprecipitation (IP) screening using serum from patients with POI and the established human granulosa cell line (HGrC1). POTE ankyrin domain family member E (POTEE) and POTE ankyrin domain family member F (POTEF), proteins specific to primates, were identified as candidate antigens. Using immunohistochemistry (IHC) with human ovarian tissue, POTEE or POTEF was weakly seen in the granulosa cells (GCs) of primordial follicles and primary follicles, and strongly in large antral follicles and luteal cells. Interestingly, no signals were detected in growing GCs in secondary, preantral, and small antral follicles. Thus, to explore the function of POTEE and POTEF in human folliculogenesis, we established HGrC1 cell lines with drug-inducible expression of POTEF. Expression of POTEF significantly suppressed cell proliferation in HGrC1 cells. Furthermore, chaperonin containing TCP-1 complex (CCT) components, which affect folding proteins required for cell proliferation, was bound to the actin domain of POTEF protein. Although CCT is normally localized only around the Golgi apparatus, TCP-1α, a component of CCT, co-migrated closer to the cell membrane when POTEF expression was induced. These data suggest that the interaction between POTEF and CCT components impairs the usual function of CCT during cell growth. In addition, over-accumulation of POTEF in HGrC1 cells leads to autophagic failure. It was recently reported that knockout of an autophagic gene in mice leads to a phenotype similar to human POI. These results suggested that a proper amount of POTEF is required for the maintenance of GCs in follicle pools, whereas POTEF overaccumulation might be involved in follicle atresia and the development of POI. We also showed the possibility that POTEF could be an antigen involved in ovarian autoimmunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yukiyo Kasahara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Satoko Osuka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan. .,Department of Maternal and Perinatal Medicine, Nagoya University Hospital, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan.
| | - Nobuyoshi Takasaki
- Bell Research Center for Reproductive Health and Cancer, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Bayasula
- Bell Research Center for Reproductive Health and Cancer, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Koya
- Bell Research Center for Reproductive Health and Cancer, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Natsuki Nakanishi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Tomohiko Murase
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Tomoko Nakamura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Maki Goto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| | - Akira Iwase
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-22 Showa-machi, Maebashi, 371-8511, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Kajiyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya, 466-8550, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Sun B, Yeh J. Onco-fertility and personalized testing for potential for loss of ovarian reserve in patients undergoing chemotherapy: proposed next steps for development of genetic testing to predict changes in ovarian reserve. FERTILITY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2021; 7:13. [PMID: 34193292 PMCID: PMC8244159 DOI: 10.1186/s40738-021-00105-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Women of reproductive age undergoing chemotherapy face the risk of irreversible ovarian insufficiency. Current methods of ovarian reserve testing do not accurately predict future reproductive potential for patients undergoing chemotherapy. Genetic markers that more accurately predict the reproductive potential of each patient undergoing chemotherapy would be critical tools that would be useful for evidence-based fertility preservation counselling. To assess the possible approaches to take to develop personalized genetic testing for these patients, we review current literature regarding mechanisms of ovarian damage due to chemotherapy and genetic variants associated with both the damage mechanisms and primary ovarian insufficiency. The medical literature point to a number of genetic variants associated with mechanisms of ovarian damage and primary ovarian insufficiency. Those variants that appear at a higher frequency, with known pathways, may be considered as potential genetic markers for predictive ovarian reserve testing. We propose developing personalized testing of the potential for loss of ovarian function for patients with cancer, prior to chemotherapy treatment. There are advantages of using genetic markers complementary to the current ovarian reserve markers of AMH, antral follicle count and day 3 FSH as predictors of preservation of fertility after chemotherapy. Genetic markers will help identify upstream pathways leading to high risk of ovarian failure not detected by present clinical markers. Their predictive value is mechanism-based and will encourage research towards understanding the multiple pathways contributing to ovarian failure after chemotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bei Sun
- Sackler School of Medicine, New York State/American Program of Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Aviv 69978, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - John Yeh
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, UMass Memorial Medical Center, 119 Belmont Street, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Watanabe R, Sasaki S, Kimura N. Activation of autophagy in early neonatal mice increases primordial follicle number and improves lifelong fertility†. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:399-411. [PMID: 31566206 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The number of stockpiled primordial follicles is thought to be responsible for the fate of female fertility and reproductive lifetime. We previously reported that starvation in nonsuckling early neonatal mice increases the number of primordial follicles with concomitant autophagy activation, suggesting that autophagy may accelerate the formation of primordial follicles. In this study, we attempted to upregulate the numbers of primordial follicles by administering an autophagy inducer and evaluated the progress of primordial follicle formation and their fertility during the life of the mice. To induce autophagy, mice were intraperitoneally injected with the Tat-beclin1 D-11 peptide (0.02 mg/g body weight) at 6-54 h or 60-84 h after birth. In animals that received Tat-beclin 1 D-11 by 54 h after birth, the primordial follicle numbers were significantly increased compared with the control group at 60 h. The ratio of expressed LC3-II/LC3-I proteins was also significantly greater. The numbers of littermates from pregnant females that had been treated with Tat-beclin 1 D-11 were maintained at remarkably greater levels until 10 months old. These results were supported by an abundance of primordial follicles at even 13-15 months old.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ren Watanabe
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Yamagata University, Tsuruoka, Japan.,Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) Research Fellowships for Young Scientists, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sho Sasaki
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Yamagata University, Tsuruoka, Japan
| | - Naoko Kimura
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Yamagata University, Tsuruoka, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Contextualizing Autophagy during Gametogenesis and Preimplantation Embryonic Development. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126313. [PMID: 34204653 PMCID: PMC8231133 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammals face environmental stressors throughout their lifespan, which may jeopardize cellular homeostasis. Hence, these organisms have acquired mechanisms to cope with stressors by sensing, repairing the damage, and reallocating resources to increase the odds of long-term survival. Autophagy is a pro-survival lysosome-mediated cytoplasm degradation pathway for organelle and macromolecule recycling. Furthermore, autophagy efflux increases, and this pathway becomes idiosyncratic depending upon developmental and environmental contexts. Mammalian germ cells and preimplantation embryos are attractive models for dissecting autophagy due to their metastable phenotypes during differentiation and exposure to varying environmental cues. The aim of this review is to explore autophagy during mammalian gametogenesis, fertilization and preimplantation embryonic development by contemplating its physiological role during development, under key stressors, and within the scope of assisted reproduction technologies.
Collapse
|