ANP promotes proliferation and inhibits apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells by NPRA/PGRMC1/EGFR complex and improves ovary functions of PCOS rats

Inducers and Inhibitors of Pyroptotic Death of Granulosa Cells in Models of Premature Ovarian Insufficiency and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Granulosa cells (GCs), the largest cell population and primary source of steroid hormones in the ovary, are the important somatic ovarian components. They have critical roles in folliculogenesis by supporting oocyte, facilitating its growth, and providing a microenvironment suitable for follicular development and oocyte maturation, thus having essential functions in maintaining female fertility and in reproductive health in general. Pyroptotic death of GCs and associated inflammation have been implicated in the pathogenesis of several reproductive disorders in females including Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI) and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Here, I reviewed factors, either intrinsic or extrinsic, that induce or inhibit pyroptosis in GCs in various models of these disorders, both in vitro and in vivo, and also covered associated molecular mechanisms. Most of these studied factors influence NLRP3 inflammasome- and GSDMD (Gasdermin D)-mediated pyroptosis in GCs, compared to other inflammasomes and gasdermins (GSDMs). I conclude that a more complete mechanistic understanding of these factors in terms of GC pyroptosis is required to be able to develop novel strategies targeting inflammatory cell death in the ovary.

CircRAB11A act as miR-24-5p sponge promotes proliferation and resists apoptosis of chicken granulosa cell via EGFR/ERK1/2 and RAB11A/ PI3K/AKT pathways

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of endogenous non-coding RNAs that have been implicated in mediating granulosa cell (GC) proliferation and apoptosis. CircRAB11A was found to have a significantly higher expression in normal follicles compared to atrophic follicles. In this study, we determined that the knockdown of circRAB11A resulted in the inhibition of proliferation and promotion of apoptosis in GCs of chicken. Moreover, circRAB11A was found to act as a sponge for miR-24-5p, both member RAS oncogene family (RAB11A) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) were revealed to be targets of miR-24-5p through a dual-luciferase reporter assay. RAB11A or EGFR promoted proliferation and suppressed apoptosis in GCs through the phosphatidylinositol-kinase (PI3K)/AKT or extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 pathway. These findings suggest that circRAB11A may function as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) by targeting the miR-24-5p/RAB11A and miR-24-5p/EGFR axes and activating the ERK1/2 and PI3K/AKT pathways, offering a potential avenue for exploring the mechanism of follicle development.

Rhythm gene PER1 mediates ferroptosis and lipid metabolism through SREBF2/ALOX15 axis in polycystic ovary syndrome

OBJECTIVE

This work aimed to investigate the role of rhythm gene PER1 in mediating granulosa cell ferroptosis and lipid metabolism of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

METHODS

We injected dehydroepiandrosterone and Ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1) into mice to explore the mechanism of ferroptosis in PCOS. The effect of PER1 on ferroptosis-like changes in granulosa cells was explored by overexpression of PER1 plasmid transfection and Fer-1 treatment.

RESULTS

We found that Fer-1 ameliorated the characteristic polycystic ovary morphology, suppressed ferroptosis in the PCOS mice. PER1 and ALOX15 were highly expressed in PCOS, whereas SREBF2 was lowly expressed. Overexpression of PER1 decreased granulosa cell viability and inhibited proliferation. Meanwhile, overexpression of PER1 increased lipid reactive oxygen species, 4-Hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), Malondialdehyde (MDA), total Fe, and Fe2+ levels in granulosa cells and decreased Glutathione (GSH) content. Fer-1, SREBF2 overexpression, or ALOX15 silencing treatment reversed the effects of PER1 overexpression on granulosa cells. PER1 binds to the SREBF2 promoter and represses SREBF2 transcription. SREBF2 binds to the ALOX15 promoter and represses ALOX15 transcription. Correlation analysis of clinical trials showed that PER1 was positively correlated with total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, luteinizing hormone, testosterone, 4-HNE, MDA, total Fe, Fe2+, and ALOX15. In contrast, PER1 was negatively correlated with SREBF2, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, follicle-stimulating hormone, progesterone, and GSH.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that the rhythm gene PER1 promotes ferroptosis and dysfunctional lipid metabolism in granulosa cells in PCOS by inhibiting SREBF2/ALOX15 signaling.

Modulation of the RAC1/MAPK/ERK signalling pathway by farnesyl diphosphate synthase regulates granulosa cells proliferation in polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex gynaecological endocrine disease that occurs in women of childbearing age. The pathogenesis of PCOS is still unclear and further exploration is needed. Here, proteomic analysis indicated that the expression of farnesyl diphosphate synthase (FDPS) protein in ovarian tissue of PCOS mice was significantly decreased. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between potential biomarkers of PCOS and granulosa cells (GCs) function. The mechanisms by which FDPS affected the proliferation of granulosa cells were also explored both in vitro and in vivo. We found that knockdown of FDPS inhibited the proliferation of KGN (human ovarian granulosa cell line), while overexpression of FDPS had the opposite effect. FDPS activated Rac1 (Rac Family Small GTPase 1) activity and regulated MAPK/ERK signalling pathway, which affecting the proliferation of KGN cells significantly. In addition, treatment with the adeno-associated virus (AAV)-FDPS reverses the dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)-induced PCOS-phenotype in mice. Our data indicated that FDPS could regulate the proliferation of ovarian GCs by modulating MAPK/ERK (mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular regulated protein kinases) pathway via activating Rac1 activity. These findings suggest that FDPS could be of great value for the regulation of ovarian granulosa cell function and the treatment of PCOS.

Reduced PATL2 Impairs the Proliferation of Ovarian Granulosa Cells by Decreasing ADM2 Expression in Patients with PCOS

It is recognized that PCOS patients are often accompanied with aberrant follicular development, which is an important factor leading to infertility in patients. However, the relevant regulatory mechanisms of abnormal follicular development are not well understood. In the present study, by collecting human ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) from PCOS patients who underwent in vitro fertilization (IVF), we found that the proliferation ability of GCs in PCOS patients was significantly reduced. Surprisingly, PATL2 and adrenomedullin 2 (ADM2) were obviously decreased in the GCs of PCOS patients. To further explore the potential roles of PATL2 and ADM2 on GC, we transfected PATL2 siRNA into KGN cells to knock down the expression of PATL2. The results showed that the growth of GCs remarkably repressed after knocking down the PATL2, and ADM2 expression was also weakened. Subsequently, to study the relationship between PATL2 and ADM2, we constructed PATL2 mutant plasmid lacking the PAT construct and transfected it into KGN cells. The cells showed the normal PATL2 expression, but attenuated ADM2 expression and impaired proliferative ability of GCs. Finally, the rat PCOS model experiments further confirmed our findings in KGN cells. In conclusion, our study suggests that PATL2 promoted the proliferation of ovarian GCs by stabilizing the expression of ADM2 through "PAT" structure, which is beneficial to follicular development, whereas, in the ovary with polycystic lesions, reduction of PATL2 could result in the decreased expression of ADM2, subsequently weakened the proliferation ability of GCs and finally led to the occurrence of aberrant follicles.

High levels of fatty acid-binding protein 5 excessively enhances fatty acid synthesis and proliferation of granulosa cells in polycystic ovary syndrome

BACKGROUND

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most complex endocrine disorders in women of reproductive age. Abnormal proliferation of granulosa cells (GCs) is an important cause of PCOS. This study aimed to explore the role of fatty acid-binding protein 5 (FABP5) in granulosa cell (GC) proliferation in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients.

METHODS

The FABP5 gene, which is related to lipid metabolism, was identified through data analysis of the gene expression profiles of GSE138518 from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The expression levels of FABP5 were measured by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT‒PCR) and western blotting. Cell proliferation was evaluated with a cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Western blotting was used to assess the expression of the proliferation marker PCNA, and immunofluorescence microscopy was used to detect Ki67 expression. Moreover, lipid droplet formation was detected with Nile red staining, and qRT‒PCR was used to analyze fatty acid storage-related gene expression.

RESULTS

We found that FABP5 was upregulated in ovarian GCs obtained from PCOS patients and PCOS mice. FABP5 knockdown suppressed lipid droplet formation and proliferation in a human granulosa-like tumor cell line (KGN), whereas FABP5 overexpression significantly enhanced lipid droplet formation and KGN cell proliferation. Moreover, we determined that FABP5 knockdown inhibited PI3K-AKT signaling by suppressing AKT phosphorylation and that FABP5 overexpression activated PI3K-AKT signaling by facilitating AKT phosphorylation. Finally, we used the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway inhibitor LY294002 and found that the facilitation of KGN cell proliferation and lipid droplet formation induced by FABP5 overexpression was inhibited. In contrast, the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway agonist SC79 significantly rescued the suppression of KGN cell proliferation and lipid droplet formation caused by FABP5 knockdown.

CONCLUSIONS

FABP5 promotes active fatty acid synthesis and excessive proliferation of GCs by activating PI3K-AKT signaling, suggesting that abnormally high expression of FABP5 in GCs may be a novel biomarker or a research target for PCOS treatment.

A spatiotemporal gene expression and cell atlases of the developing rat ovary

Normal ovarian development is necessary for the production of healthy oocytes. However, the characteristics of oocytes development at different stages and the regulatory relationship between oocytes and somatic cells remain to be fully explained. Here, we combined scRNA-seq and spatial transcriptomic sequencing to profile the transcriptomic atlas of developing ovarian of the rat. We identified four components from developing granulosa cells including cumulus, primitive, mural, and luteal cells, and constructed their differential transcriptional regulatory networks. Several novel growth signals from oocytes to cumulus cells were identified, such as JAG1-NOTCH2 and FGF9-FGFR2. Moreover, we observed three cumulus sequential phases during follicle development determined by the key transcriptional factors in each cumulus phase (Bckaf1, Gata6, Cebpb, etc.), as well as the potential pinpointed roles of macrophages in luteal regression. Altogether, the single-cell spatial transcriptomic profile of the ovary provides not only a new research dimension for temporal and spatial analysis of ovary development, but also valuable data resources and a research basis for in-depth excavation of the mechanisms of mammalian ovary development.

Immunohistochemical study of MMP-2, MMP-9, EGFR and IL-8 in decidual and trophoblastic specimens of recurrent pregnancy loss cases

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss has been a a challenging research task to experts since there is no explicit pathophysiological mechanism and therefore, the treatment remains elusive. Immunological imbalance and morphological abnormalities are under investigation. This study aims to evaluate the implication of MMP-2, MMP-9, EGFR, and IL-8 in recurrent pregnancy loss cases.

MATERIALS & METHODS

The study was carried out through comparison among two groups; the unexplained miscarriage group which consisted of 22 women, and the control group consisted of 18 women, who had electively terminated their pregnancies. Both groups were in the first trimester of gestation. The specimens included the trophoblast, decidua basalis, and decidua parietalis. The study was conducted via immunohistochemical methods. Antibodies were used against MMP-2, MMP-9, EGFR, and IL-8. The results were presented at a contingency table and were statistically analyzed with the Chi-Square Test (X²).

RESULTS

There were remarkable disparities in some cases in the comparison of the two groups. MMP-9 was detected significantly high in recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) cases, both on trophoblastic and decidual specimens (p-value < .00001), MMP-2 displayed no difference among the two groups (mild to moderate detection on trophoblast and almost negative on decidual tissues). EGFR was highly detected in trophoblastic tissue (p-value = .014). IL-8 detection was particularly different in both trophoblast and decidua parietalis of the two groups (p-value < .01).

CONCLUSION

The study revealed both morphological and immunological dysregulations that might participate in the RPL pathogenesis.

Network pharmacology and molecular docking study on the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome with angelica sinensis- radix rehmanniae drug pair

This study aimed to investigate the angelica sinensis - radix rehmanniae (AR) role in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), employing network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques for active ingredient, targets, and pathway prediction. AR active components were obtained through TCMSP platform and literature search. The related targets of AR and PCOS were obtained through the disease and Swiss Target Prediction databases. An "active ingredient-target" network map was constructed using Cytoscape software, and gene ontology and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes enrichment analysis was conducted through Hiplot. Finally, Auto Dock Tools software was used to conduct molecular docking between active ingredients and core targets. The main bioactive ingredients of AR in the treatment of PCOS are acteoside, baicalin, caffeic acid, cistanoside F, geniposide, etc. These ingredients involve 10 core targets, such as SRC, HSP90AA1, STAT3, MAPK1, and JUN. The effect of AR on anti-PCOS mainly involves the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway, Relaxin signaling pathway, TNF signaling pathway, and ErbB signaling pathway. Molecular docking results showed that the main active components and key targets of AR could be stably combined. AR can improve hyperandrogen status, regulate glucose homeostasis, and correct lipid metabolism and other physiological processes through multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway. Thus, it could play a significant role in PCOS treatment. The results of our study provide a scientific foundation for basic research and clinical applications of AR for the treatment of PCOS.

Relationship Between Genetic Polymorphisms in Cell Cycle Regulatory Gene TP53 and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Case-Control Study and In Silico Analyses

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine and metabolic condition with several potential causes. Insulin resistance is a hallmark of PCOS that often coexists with hirsutism, hyperandrogenism, being overweight, and hormonal imbalances. The functioning of multiple replication and transcription factors is regulated by tumor suppressor genes (TSGs), which play a crucial role in maintaining genomic integrity and controlling the cell cycle of granulosa cells. In the present study, we examined how three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in TP53, a cell cycle regulatory gene, affect the risk of developing PCOS in a sample of an Iranian population. Genomic DNA was extracted from 200 PCOS patients and 200 healthy women to analyze TP53 rs17880604, rs1625895, and rs1042522 SNPs using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. Our findings revealed that the majority of PCOS cases were overweight [25 < body mass index (BMI) < 30]. A positive association was observed between the TP53 rs1042522 SNP and the risk of PCOS under codominant heterozygous and overdominant genetic patterns (odds ratio > 1). Meanwhile, a negative association was observed between TP53 SNPs (rs1625895, rs17880604) and susceptibility to PCOS under codominant heterozygous and dominant models of inheritance (odds ratio < 1). Moreover, different genotype and haplotype combinations of rs17880604/rs1625895/rs1042522 conferred a decreased risk of PCOS in our population. We found no statistical difference in the frequency of TP53 genotypes between PCOS cases and/or controls in terms of BMI, waist circumference, prolactin level, and markers of lipid and carbohydrate profile (P > 0.05). Molecular dynamic prediction showed that the missense substitution in the 17p13.1 position (rs1042522) could change the properties and secondary structure of the p53 protein. As inherited risk factors, TP53 variations may play a  pivotal role in the pathogenesis of PCOS among Iranian women. Replicated population-based studies on other ethnicities are required to find the genetic contribution of variants of TP53, or SNPs located in other TSGs, to the etiology of this endocrine disease.

A review of anti-tumour effects of Ganoderma lucidum in gastrointestinal cancer

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer is the most common cancer in the world and one of the main causes of cancer-related death. Clinically, surgical excision and chemotherapy are the main treatment methods for GI cancer, which is unfortunately accompanied with serious adverse reactions and drug toxicity, bringing irreversible damage to patients and seriously affecting the quality of life. Ganoderma lucidum (G. lucidum) has a long history of medicinal and edible use in China. Its bioactive compounds mainly include polysaccharides, triterpenes, and proteins, which have potential anti-tumor activities by inhibiting proliferation, inducing apoptosis, inhibiting metastasis, and regulating autophagy. Currently, there is no in-depth review on the anti-tumor effect of G. lucidum in GI cancer. Therefore, this review is an attempt to compile the basic characteristics, anti-GI caner mechanisms, and clinical application of G. lucidum, aiming to provide a reference for further research on the role of G. lucidum in the prevention and treatment of GI cancer from the perspective of traditional Chinese and western medicine.

Novel Host Pathways Govern Epithelial Cell Invasion of Aspergillus fumigatus

Invasive aspergillosis is initiated when Aspergillus fumigatus adheres to and invades the pulmonary epithelial cells that line the airways and alveoli. To gain deeper insight into how pulmonary epithelial cells respond to A. fumigatus invasion, we used transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq) to determine the transcriptional response of the A549 type II alveolar epithelial cell line to infection with strains CEA10 and Af293, two clinical isolates of A. fumigatus. Upstream regulator analysis of the data indicated that while both strains activated virtually identical host cell signaling pathways after 16 h of infection, only strain CEA10 activated these pathways after 6 h of infection. Many of the pathways that were predicted to be activated by A. fumigatus, including the tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-1α (IL-1α), IL-1β, IL-17A, Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), and TLR4 pathways, are known to be critical for the host defense against this fungus. We also found that the platelet-derived growth factor BB (PDGF BB) and progesterone receptor (PGR) pathways were activated by A. fumigatus. Using pharmacologic inhibitors, we determined that blocking the PDGF receptor or PGR inhibited the endocytosis of both strains of A. fumigatus in an additive manner. Both the PDGF BB and PGR pathways are also predicted to be activated by infection of A549 cells with other molds, such as Rhizopus delemar and Rhizopus oryzae. Thus, these pathways may represent a common response of pulmonary epithelial cells to mold infection. IMPORTANCE Invasive aspergillosis is a deadly invasive fungal infection that initiates when Aspergillus fumigatus spores are inhaled and come into contact with the epithelial cells that line the airways and alveoli. Understanding this fungus-host interaction is important for the development of novel therapeutics. To gain a deeper understanding of how these airway epithelial cells respond to A. fumigatus during infection, we used RNA-seq to determine the transcriptional response of alveolar epithelial cells to infection with two different clinical isolates of A. fumigatus. Our analysis identified new host response pathways that have not previously been tied to infection with A. fumigatus. Pharmacological inhibition of two of these pathways inhibited the ability of A. fumigatus to invade airway epithelial cells. These two pathways are also predicted to be activated by infection with other filamentous fungi. Thus, these pathways may represent a common response of alveolar epithelial cells to mold infection.

Transcriptome analysis identification of A-to-I RNA editing in granulosa cells associated with PCOS

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex, multifactor disorder in women of reproductive age worldwide. Although RNA editing may contribute to a variety of diseases, its role in PCOS remains unclear.

Methods

A discovery RNA-Seq dataset was obtained from the NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus database of granulosa cells from women with PCOS and women without PCOS (controls). A validation RNA-Seq dataset downloaded from the European Nucleotide Archive Databank was used to validate differential editing. Transcriptome-wide investigation was conducted to analyze adenosine-to-inosine (A-to-I) RNA editing in PCOS and control samples.

Results

A total of 17,395 high-confidence A-to-I RNA editing sites were identified in 3,644 genes in all GC samples. As for differential RNA editing, there were 545 differential RNA editing (DRE) sites in 259 genes with Nucleoporin 43 (NUP43), Retinoblastoma Binding Protein 4 (RBBP4), and leckstrin homology-like domain family A member 1 (PHLDA) showing the most significant three 3'-untranslated region (3'UTR) editing. Furthermore, we identified 20 DRE sites that demonstrated a significant correlation between editing levels and gene expression levels. Notably, MIR193b-365a Host Gene (MIR193BHG) and Hook Microtubule Tethering Protein 3 (HOOK3) exhibited significant differential expression between PCOS and controls. Functional enrichment analysis showed that these 259 differentially edited genes were mainly related to apoptosis and necroptosis pathways. RNA binding protein (RBP) analysis revealed that RNA Binding Motif Protein 45 (RBM45) was predicted as the most frequent RBP binding with RNA editing sites. Additionally, we observed a correlation between editing levels of differential editing sites and the expression level of the RNA editing enzyme Adenosine Deaminase RNA Specific B1 (ADARB1). Moreover, the existence of 55 common differentially edited genes and nine differential editing sites were confirmed in the validation dataset.

Conclusion

Our current study highlighted the potential role of RNA editing in the pathophysiology of PCOS as an epigenetic process. These findings could provide valuable insights into the development of more targeted and effective treatment options for PCOS.

Glycyrrhizin ameliorates impaired glucose metabolism and ovarian dysfunction in a polycystic ovary syndrome mouse model

The aim of this study was to determine the impact of glycyrrhizin, an inhibitor of high mobility group box 1, on glucose metabolic disorders and ovarian dysfunction in mice with polycystic ovary syndrome. We generated a polycystic ovary syndrome mouse model by using dehydroepiandrosterone plus high-fat diet. Glycyrrhizin (100 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally injected into the polycystic ovary syndrome mice and the effects on body weight, glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, estrous cycle, hormone profiles, ovarian pathology, glucolipid metabolism, and some molecular mechanisms were investigated. Increased number of cystic follicles, hormonal disorders, impaired glucose tolerance, and decreased insulin sensitivity in the polycystic ovary syndrome mice were reverted by glycyrrhizin. The increased high mobility group box 1 levels in the serum and ovarian tissues of the polycystic ovary syndrome mice were also reduced by glycyrrhizin. Furthermore, increased expressions of toll-like receptor 9, myeloid differentiation factor 88, and nuclear factor kappa B as well as reduced expressions of insulin receptor, phosphorylated protein kinase B, and glucose transporter type 4 were restored by glycyrrhizin in the polycystic ovary syndrome mice. Glycyrrhizin could suppress the polycystic ovary syndrome-induced upregulation of high mobility group box 1, several inflammatory marker genes, and the toll-like receptor 9/myeloid differentiation factor 88/nuclear factor kappa B pathways, while inhibiting the insulin receptor/phosphorylated protein kinase B/glucose transporter type 4 pathways. Hence, glycyrrhizin is a promising therapeutic agent against polycystic ovary syndrome.

Cangfu Daotan Wan alleviates polycystic ovary syndrome with phlegm-dampness syndrome via disruption of the PKP3/ERCC1/MAPK axis

BACKGROUND/AIM

Cangfu Daotan Wan (CFDTW) has been widely used for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients in the type of stagnation of phlegm and dampness. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the mechanism underlying the therapeutic effect of CFDTW on PCOS with phlegm-dampness syndrome (PDS).

METHODS

In silico analysis was adopted to identify CFDTW potential targets and the downstream pathways in the treatment of PCOS. Expression of PKP3 was examined in the ovarian granulosa cells from PCOS patients with PDS and rat PCOS models induced by dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). PKP3/ERCC1 was overexpressed or underexpressed or combined with CFDTW treatment in ovarian granulosa cells to assay the effect of CFDTW on ovarian granulosa cell functions via the PKP3/MAPK/ERCC1 axis.

RESULTS

Clinical samples and ovarian granulosa cells of rat models were characterized by hypomethylated PKP3 promoter and upregulated PKP3 expression. CFDTW reduced PKP3 expression by enhancing the methylation of PKP3 promoter, leading to proliferation of ovarian granulosa cells, increasing S and G2/M phase-arrested cells, and arresting their apoptosis. PKP3 augmented ERCC1 expression by activating the MAPK pathway. In addition, CFDTW facilitated the proliferation of ovarian granulosa cells and repressed their apoptosis by regulating PKP3/MAPK/ERCC1 axis.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, this study illuminates how CFDTW confers therapeutic effects on PCOS patients with PDS, which may offer a novel theranostic marker in PCOS.

NPRA promotes fatty acid metabolism and proliferation of gastric cancer cells by binding to PPARα

Among cancers, gastric cancer (GC) ranks third globally in morbidity and mortality, particularly in East Asia. Natriuretic peptide receptor A (NPRA), a receptor for guanylate cyclase, plays important roles in regulating water and sodium balance. Recent studies have suggested that NPRA is involved in tumorigenesis, but its role in GC development remains unclear. Herein, we showed that the expression level of NPRA was positively correlated with gastric tumor size and clinical stage. Patients with high NPRA expression had a lower five-year survival rate than those with low expression, and NPRA was identified as an independent predictor of GC prognosis. NPRA knockdown suppressed GC cell proliferation, migration and invasion. NPRA overexpression enhanced cell malignant behavior. Immunohistochemistry of collected tumor samples showed that tumors with high NPRA expression had higher peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) levels. In vivo and in vitro studies showed that NPRA promotes fatty acid oxidation and tumor cell metastasis. Co-IP showed that NPRA binds to PPARα and prevents PPARα degradation. PPARα upregulation under NPRA protection activates arnitine palmitoyl transferase 1B (CPT1B) to promote fatty acid oxidation. In this study, new mechanisms by which NPRA promotes the development of GC and new regulatory mechanisms of PPARα were identified.

miR-4433a-3p promotes granulosa cell apoptosis by targeting peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha and inducing immune cell infiltration in polycystic ovarian syndrome

BACKGROUND

Granulosa cell (GC) proliferation and apoptosis are critical events of the ovum energy supply, which lead to follicular growth retardation or atresia, and various ovulatory obstacles, eventually resulting in the development of ovarian disorders such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Apoptosis and dysregulated miRNA expression in GCs are manifestations of PCOS. miR-4433a-3p has been reported to be involved in apoptosis. However, there is no study reporting the roles of miR-4433a-3p in GC apoptosis and PCOS progression.

METHODS

miR-4433a-3p and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR-α) levels in GCs of PCOS patients or in tissues of a PCOS rat model were examined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry. Bioinformatics analyses and luciferase assays were used to examine the association between miR-4433a-3p and PPAR-α, as well as PPAR-α and immune cell infiltration, in PCOS patients.

RESULTS

miR-4433a-3p expression in GCs of PCOS patients was increased. miR-4433a-3p overexpression inhibited the growth of the human granulosa-like tumor cell line (KGN) and promoted apoptosis, while co-treatment with PPAR-α and miR-4433a-3p mimic rescued miR-4433a-3p-induced apoptosis. PPAR-α was a direct target of miR-4433a-3p and its expression was decreased in PCOS patients. PPAR-α expression was also positively correlated with the infiltration of activated CD4+ T cells, eosinophils, B cells, gamma delta T cells, macrophages, and mast cells, but negatively correlated with the infiltration of activated CD8+ T cells, CD56+ bright natural killer cells, immature dendritic cells, monocytes, plasmacytoid dendritic cells, neutrophils, and type 1 T helper cells in PCOS patients.

CONCLUSION

The miR-4433a-3p/PPAR-α/immune cell infiltration axis may function as a novel cascade to alter GC apoptosis in PCOS.

HDAC1 participates in polycystic ovary syndrome through histone modification to regulate H19/miR-29a-3p/NLRP3-mediated granulosa cell pyroptosis

Histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) is known to participate in the molecular etiology of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, its role in granulosa cell (GC) pyroptosis remains unclear. This study sought to investigate the mechanism of HDAC1 in PCOS-induced GC pyroptosis through histone modification. Clinical serum samples and the general data of study subjects were collected. PCOS mouse models were established using dehydroepiandrosterone and cell models were established in HGL5 cells using dihydrotestosterone. Expressions of HDAC1, H19, miR-29a-3p, and NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) and pyroptosis-related proteins and levels of hormones and inflammatory cytokines were determined. Ovarian damage was observed by hematoxylin-eosin staining. Functional rescue experiments were conducted to verify the role of H19/miR-29a-3p/NLRP3 in GC pyroptosis in PCOS. HDAC1 and miR-29a-3p were downregulated whereas H19 and NLRP3 were upregulated in PCOS. HDAC1 upregulation attenuated ovarian damage and hormone disorders in PCOS mice and suppressed pyroptosis in ovarian tissues and HGL5 cells. HDAC1 inhibited H3K9ac on the H19 promoter and H19 competitively bound to miR-29a-3p to improve NLRP3 expression. Overexpressed H19 or NLRP3 or inhibited miR-29a-3p reversed the inhibition of GC pyroptosis by HDAC1 upregulation. Overall, HDAC1 suppressed GC pyroptosis in PCOS through deacetylation to regulate the H19/miR-29a-3p/NLRP3 axis.

Expression of PGRMC1 in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome and its molecular mechanism for regulating ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis and glucolipid metabolism

OBJECTIVES

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine diseases in women with reproductive age, which is associated with hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, and ovulatory dysfunction. Progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1) can mediate progesterone to inhibit the apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells and the growth of follicles, and to induce glucolipid metabolism disorder in ovarian granulosa cells, which is closely related to the occurrence and development of PCOS. This study aims to determine the expression of PGRMC1 in serum, ovarian tissue, ovarian granulosa cells, and follicular fluid in PCOS patients and non-PCOS patients, analyze the value of PGRMC1 in diagnosis and prognosis evaluation of PCOS, and investigate its molecular mechanism on ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis and glucolipid metabolism.

METHODS

A total of 123 patients were collected from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Guangdong Women and Children Hospital (hereinafter referred to as "our hospital") from August 2021 to March 2022 and divided into 3 groups: a PCOS pre-treatment group (n=42), a PCOS treatment group (n=36), and a control group (n=45). The level of PGRMC1 in serum was detected by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The diagnostic and prognostic value of PGRMC1 was evaluated in patients with PCOS by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Sixty patients who underwent a laparoscopic surgery from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in our hospital from January 2014 to December 2016 were collected and divided into a PCOS group and a control group (n=30). The expression and distribution of PGRMC1 protein in ovarian tissues were detected by immunohistochemical staining. Twenty-two patients were collected from Reproductive Medicine Center in our hospital from December 2020 to March 2021, and they divided into a PCOS group and a control group (n=11). ELISA was used to detect the level of PGRMC1 in follicular fluid; real-time RT-PCR was used to detect the expression level of PGRMC1 mRNA in ovarian granulosa cells. Human ovarian granular cell line KGN cells were divided into a scrambled group which was transfected with small interfering RNA (siRNA) without interference and a siPGRMC1 group which was transfected with specific siRNA targeting PGRMC1. The apoptotic rate of KGN cells was detected by flow cytometry. The mRNA expression levels of PGRMC1, insulin receptor (INSR), glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4), very low density lipoprotein receptor (VLDLR), and low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) were determined by real-time RT-PCR.

RESULTS

The serum level of PGRMC1 in the PCOS pre-treatment group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P<0.001), and the serum level of PGRMC1 in the PCOS treatment group was significantly lower than that in the PCOS pre-treatment group (P<0.001). The areas under curve (AUC) of PGRMC1 for the diagnosing and prognosis evaluation of PCOS were 0.923 and 0.893, respectively, and the cut-off values were 620.32 and 814.70 pg/mL, respectively. The positive staining was observed on both ovarian granulosa cells and ovarian stroma, which the staining was deepest in the ovarian granulosa cells. The average optical density of PGRMC1 in the PCOS group was significantly increased in ovarian tissue and ovarian granulosa cells than that in the control group (both P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the PGRMC1 expression levels in ovarian granulosa cells and follicular fluid in the PCOS group were significantly up-regulated (P<0.001 and P<0.01, respectively). Compared with the scrambled group, the apoptotic rate of ovarian granulosa cells was significantly increased in the siPGRMC1 group (P<0.01), the mRNA expression levels of PGRMC1 and INSR in the siPGRMC1 group were significantly down-regulated (P<0.001 and P<0.05, respectively), and the mRNA expression levels of GLUT4, VLDLR and LDLR were significantly up-regulated (all P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Serum level of PGRMC1 is increased in PCOS patients, and decreased after standard treatment. PGRMC1 could be used as molecular marker for diagnosis and prognosis evaluation of PCOS. PGRMC1 mainly localizes in ovarian granulosa cells and might play a key role in regulating ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis and glycolipid metabolism.

miR-128-3p regulates chicken granulosa cell function via 14-3-3β/FoxO and PPAR-γ/LPL signaling pathways

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are class of 22 nt short RNA sequences which inhibit protein translation through binding to the 3'UTR of its target genes. The continuous ovulatory property of chicken follicle makes it a perfect model for studying granulosa cell (GC) functions. In this study, we found that large number of miRNAs including miR-128-3p, were differentially expressed in the GCs of F1 and F5 follicles of chicken. Subsequently, the results revealed that miR-128-3p inhibited proliferation, the formation of lipid droplets, and hormone secretion in chicken primary GCs through directly targeting YWHAB and PPAR-γ genes. To determine the effects of 14-3-3β (encoded by YWHAB) protein on GCs functions, we overexpressed or inhibited the expression of YWHAB, and the results showed that YWHAB inhibited the function of FoxO proteins. Collectively, we found that miR-128-3p was highly expressed in the chicken F1 follicles compared to the F5 follicles. In addition, the results indicated that miR-128-3p promoted GC apoptosis through 14-3-3β/FoxO pathway via repressing YWHAB, and inhibited lipid synthesis by impeding the PPAR-γ/LPL pathway, as well as reduced the secretion of progesterone and estrogen. Taken together, the results showed that miR-128-3p plays a regulatory role in chicken granulosa cell function via 14-3-3β/FoxO and PPAR-γ/LPL signaling pathways.

Nourishing Kidney Promoting Ovulation Decoction (NKPOD) Attenuates Polycystic Ovary Syndrome by Downregulating miRNA-224

Background

Currently, exploring effective agents is urgently required for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) treatment. Although nourishing kidney promoting ovulation decoction (NKPOD) as a traditional Chinese medicine decoction is widely employed to increase pregnancy rates, whether NKPOD attenuates ovulation disorders in PCOS patients remains unknown. Here, we aim to explore the clinical significance and the underlying mechanisms of NKPOD in ovulation disorders.

Methods

PCOS patients were recruited to confirm the clinical significance of NKPOD in attenuating ovulation disorder. Subsequently, regulation targets of NKPOD were identified through network pharmacology analysis. Additionally, a series of experiments were performed to observe the impacts of NKPOD on miRNA-224 transcription through transcription factor AR.

Results

In this study, NKPOD administration improved hormone dysregulation and reproductive outcomes in PCOS patients. Interestingly, 100 potential targets related to NKPOD and PCOS were screened, and transcription regulation was observed to be the most enriched function. Mechanistically, NKPOD inhibited miRNA-224 transcription through reducing AR expression, in which AR as a transcription factor directly regulated miRNA-224 transcription.

Conclusions

Collectively, these findings highlight the therapeutic effect of NKPOD on PCOS, which could provide promising therapeutic agents for PCOS.

Ferredoxin 1 regulates granulosa cell apoptosis and autophagy in polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a common reproductive endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age, causes anovulatory infertility. Increased apoptosis of granulosa cells has been identified as one of the key factors contributing to abnormal follicular development. Ferredoxin 1 (FDX1) encodes a small ferredoxin that is involved in the reduction in mitochondrial cytochromes and the synthesis of various steroid hormones and has the potential to influence the function of granulosa cells. In the present study, we aimed to determine the relationship between FDX1 and follicular granulosa cell function. To this end, we investigated the difference between FDX1 expression in the granulosa cells of 50 patients with PCOS and that of the controls. Furthermore, we sought to elucidate the role and mechanism of FDX1 in PCOS granulosa cells by establishing a mouse PCOS model with dehydroepiandrosterone and KGN (a steroidogenic human granulosa cell-like tumor cell line). The results indicated significant up-regulation of FDX1 in the granulosa cells after androgen stimulation. Knockdown of FDX1 promoted the proliferation of KGN and inhibited apoptosis. Moreover, FDX1 could regulate autophagy by influencing the autophagy proteins ATG3 and ATG7. Our results demonstrated that FDX1 plays a critical role in female folliculogenesis by mediating apoptosis, autophagy, and proliferation. Therefore, FDX1 may be a potential prognostic factor for female infertility.

ANP promotes HTR-8/SVneo cell invasion by upregulating protein kinase N 3 via autophagy inhibition

Preeclampsia is a gestational disease characterized by two major pathological changes-shallow trophoblast invasion and impaired spiral artery remodeling. Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) is a kind of peptide hormone that regulates blood pressure, while the lack of active ANP participates in preeclampsia pathogenesis. However, the underlying mechanism of how ANP modulates trophoblasts function remains unclarified. Here, we performed isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) in ANP-treated HTR-8/SVneo cells and identified Protein Kinase 3 (PKN3) as the downstream factor of ANP, which was downregulated in preeclamptic placenta. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis and luciferase assays showed that NFYA was one of the transcription factors for the PKN3 promoter, which was also regulated by ANP treatment in HTR-8/SVneo cells. Transmission electron microscopy and Western Blotting in HTR-8/SVneo cells indicated that ANP inhibited autophagy via AMPK-mTORC1 signaling, while excess autophagy was observed in preeclamptic placenta. The increased expression of PKN3 and enhanced cell invasion ability in HTR-8/SVneo cells induced by ANP could be abolished by autophagy activation or transfection with PKN3 shRNA or NFYA shRNA or NPR-A shRNA via regulating the invasion-related genes and the epithelial mesenchymal transition molecules. Our results demonstrated that ANP could enhance trophoblast invasion by upregulating PKN3 via NFYA promotion through autophagy inhibition in an AMPK/mTORC1 signaling-dependent manner.

Ketogenic diet restores hormonal, apoptotic/proliferative balance and enhances the effect of metformin on a letrozole-induced polycystic ovary model in rats

OBJECTIVE

Polycystic ovaries (PCO) is a hormonal disorder that is a leading cause of infertility. The formation of multiple persistent cysts and hormonal imbalance are hallmarks of PCO. Recent clinical studies reported a beneficial effect of the ketogenic diet (KD; high-fat, low-carbohydrate) on PCO. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the KD alone and in combination with metformin on letrozole-induced PCO in female rats.

METHODS

Female rats were grouped into control and PCO (letrozole; 1 mg/kg for 21 days). The PCO group was subdivided into PCO (non-treated), PCO-metformin (300 mg/kg), PCO rats fed with KD only, and PCO rats treated with metformin and fed with KD. All groups continued to receive letrozole during the 21-day treatment period. At the end of the experiment, serum and ovaries were collected for further analysis.

RESULTS

The untreated-PCO rats showed increased testosterone, LH/FSH ratio, and ovary weights. Disturbed apoptosis and proliferation balance were evident as a low caspase-3 activation and proliferating cell nuclear antigen expression and increased TGF-β expression. The KD improved the letrozole-induced effects, which was comparable to the effect of metformin. Combining the KD with metformin treatment additively enhanced the metformin effect.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that the KD has a protective role against PCO in rats, especially when combined with metformin. This study reveals a potential therapeutic role of the KD in PCO, which could prompt valuable future clinical applications.

Kisspeptin regulates the proliferation and apoptosis of ovary granulosa cells in polycystic ovary syndrome by modulating the PI3K/AKT/ERK signalling pathway

BACKGROUND

The development of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is closely correlated with apoptosis and oxidative stress in ovarian granulosa cells. Kisspeptin plays an important role in reproductive organ function. This study aimed to explore the role of kisspeptin in PCOS and oxidative stress-triggered apoptosis of ovarian granular cells.

METHODS

A PCOS rat model was established by injecting dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and feeding the rats a high-fat diet. The RNA and protein levels of kisspeptin were analysed by quantitative PCR, western blotting, and histological staining. Tissue damage was evaluated using haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. The viability and proliferation of human granulosa cell KGN were measured using the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) assays. Cell cycle and apoptosis were analysed by flow cytometry. Oxidative stress was analysed by measuring reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) levels.

RESULTS

Kisspeptin was downregulated in the ovarian granulosa cells of PCOS rats compared to those of control rats. Kisspeptin overexpression enhanced KGN cell proliferation and inhibited apoptosis. ROS generation was suppressed by kisspeptin, along with decreased levels of MDA and increased levels of the antioxidants GSH, SOD, and CAT. Kisspeptin activates PI3K/AKT and ERK signalling, and inactivation of ERK1/2 suppresses the protective role of kisspeptin in ovarian granulosa cells.

CONCLUSION

Kisspeptin improves proliferation and alleviates apoptosis and oxidative stress in ovarian granulosa cells by activating PI3K/AKT and ERK signalling.

GIMAP7 induces oxidative stress and apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells in polycystic ovary syndrome by inhibiting sonic hedgehog signalling pathway

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a gynaecological endocrine disease. The objective of the present study was to investigate the role of GTPase immunity-associated protein (GIMAP) 7 in PCOS. A PCOS rat model was established using dehydroepiandrosterone injection. The data showed that GIMAP7 was mainly located in granulosa cells and was abundantly expressed in the ovarian granulosa cells of PCOS rats. GIMAP7 silencing decreased blood glucose levels, HOMA-IR scores, and number of cystic follicles. In addition, GIMAP7 silencing corrected erratic oestrous cycles, inhibited apoptosis and reduced c-caspase-3 protein expression in the ovarian tissues of PCOS rats. GIMAP7 silencing reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) but increased glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels in the serum and ovarian tissues of PCOS rats. The effects of GIMAP7 were further investigated in human ovarian granulosa KGN cells. GIMAP7 silencing increased the viability, promoted proliferation, and increased the percentage of S-phase KGN cells. The apoptosis rate was significantly decreased by GIMAP7 silencing. GIMAP7 also inhibited oxidative stress in KGN cells, resulting in decreased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and MDA and increased levels of GSH and SOD. Notably, GIMAP7 inhibited the sonic hedgehog (SHH) signalling pathway, and GIMAP7 silencing increased the expression of the SHH signalling pathway downstream genes SHH, SMO, and Gli1. Inhibition of the SHH signalling pathway using cyclopamine reduced the effect of GIMAP7 silencing on KGN cells. This study proved that GIMAP7 promotes oxidative stress and apoptosis in ovarian granulosa cells in PCOS by inhibiting the SHH signalling pathway.

A PPARG Splice Variant in Granulosa Cells Is Associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

BACKGROUND

We explored whether there are splice variants (SVs) of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARG) in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients and its relationship with clinical features and KGN cell functions.

METHODS

We performed a study involving 153 women with PCOS and 153 age-matched controls. One type of PPARG SV was detected by SMARTer RACE. The correlations between PPARG SV expression levels, clinical features, and KGN cell functions were analyzed. The effect of the PPARG SV on the expression of important genes in metabolism-related pathways was explored by PCR array.

RESULTS

The expression of the PPARG SV in PCOS patients was significantly higher than that in the controls. Clinical features were more significant in the PCOS group with the SV. Compared with overexpression of PPARG, the overexpression of the PPARG SV inhibited the proliferation, migration, and apoptosis of KGN cells in vitro. The genes related to the PPARG SV were mainly involved in lipid metabolism.

CONCLUSION

While granulosa cells contribute greatly to the development of follicles, our results suggest that the identified PPARG SV may regulate cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis in granulosa cells, which could partially explain the mechanisms of ovulation dysfunction in PCOS. Further investigation of the utility of this PPARG SV as a biomarker for PCOS is warranted.

Resveratrol improves follicular development of PCOS rats via regulating glycolysis pathway and targeting SIRT1

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a disease characterized by metabolic disorders. This study aimed to examine the effects of resveratrol treatment on ovulation in the PCOS rat model. Quantitative real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry were used to determine the mRNA and protein expression levels. TNUEL assay was used to evaluate cell apoptosis in ovary. The metabolites were evaluated by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Resveratrol alleviated disrupted estrous cycle and improved granular cell layers, and reversed the decreased proliferation and increased cell apoptosis of granulosa cells in the ovarian tissues of PCOS rats. Resveratrol restored the changes in the mRNA expression levels in the rate-limiting genes of glycolysis in the PCOS ovary. The expression of lactate dehydrogenase A (LDH-A), pyruvate kinase isozyme M2 (PKM2), and sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) was significantly downregulated in ovarian tissues of the PCOS rats; while the resveratrol treatment significantly increased the expression of LDH-A, PKM2, and SIRT1 in the ovarian tissues of PCOS rats. Collectively, the protective effects of resveratrol in the PCOS rats may be associated with the regulation of glycolysis-related mediators including PKM2, LDH-A, and SIRT1. Resveratrol may represent a good candidate in alleviating the development of PCOS.

LINC00173 regulates polycystic ovarian syndrome progression by promoting apoptosis and repressing proliferation in ovarian granulosa cells via the microRNA-124-3p (miR-124-3p)/jagged canonical Notch ligand 1 (JAG1) pathway

As an endocrine and metabolic disorder, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is common in females at childbearing age. Our work was intended to uncover the underlying role of LINC00173 and its potential regulatory mechanism in PCOS based on two cell lines (PCOS granulosa cells and KGN cells) and an in vivo model established from Sprague Dawley rats. It was revealed that LINC00173 and JAG1 expressions were upregulated, while miR-124-3p was poorly expressed in PCOS patients and PCOS rats. Functional assays showed that LINC00173 overexpression repressed proliferation and stimulated apoptosis in granulosa cells and KGN cells, while LINC00173 downregulation exhibited the opposite effects. Besides, it was verified that LINC00173 upregulated JAG1 expression in KGN cells via competitively binding to miR-124-3p. Similarly, miR-124-3p abundance was inversely related to LINC00173 and JAG1 level in PCOS. Subsequently, rescue assays elucidated that miR-124-3p upregulation or downregulation eliminated the effects on KGN cell proliferation and apoptosis mediated by LINC00173 overexpression or knockdown. In addition, it was found that the JAG1 level in KGN cells was adversely modulated by miR-124-3p and positively modulated by LINC00173. Moreover, it was further demonstrated that the reduced cell vitality and increased apoptosis of KGN cells induced by overexpressing LINC00173 could be relieved by JAG1 deletion. These findings suggested that LINC00173 could be a latent regulating factor for PCOS progression via modulating the miR-124-3p/JAG1 cascade.

Molecular mechanism of ovarian toxicity of Hook.F. a study based on network pharmacology and molecular docking

To explore the mechanism of ovarian toxicity of Hook. F. (TwHF) by network pharmacology and molecular docking. The candidate toxic compounds and targets of TwHF were collected by the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP) and the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD). Then, the potential ovarian toxic targets were obtained from CTD, and the target genes of ovarian toxicity of TwHF were analyzed using the STRING database. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was established by Cytoscape and analyzed by the cytoHubba plug-in to identify hub genes. Additionally, the target genes of ovarian toxicity of TwHF were subjected to Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses by using the R software. Finally, Discovery Studio software was used for molecular docking verification of the core toxic compounds and the hub genes. Nine candidate toxic compounds of TwHF and 56 potential ovarian toxic targets were identified in this study. Further network analysis showed that the core ovarian toxic compounds of TwHF were triptolide, kaempferol and tripterine, and the hub ovarian toxic genes included , , , , , , , , and . Besides, the GO and KEGG analysis indicated that TwHF caused ovarian toxicity through oxidative stress, reproductive system development and function, regulation of cell cycle, response to endogenous hormones and exogenous stimuli, apoptosis regulation and aging. The docking studies suggested that 3 core ovarian toxic compounds of TwHF were able to fit in the binding pocket of the 10 hub genes. TwHF may cause ovarian toxicity by acting on 10 hub genes and 140 signaling pathways.

Ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin‑1 alleviates homocysteine‑induced ovarian granulosa cell injury by regulating TET activity and DNA methylation

Polycystic ovary syndrome is one of the most common endocrine and metabolic gynecological disorders, of which dysfunction of ovarian granulosa cells is a key contributing factor. The aim of the present study was to explore the role of ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1), a ferroptosis inhibitor, in a cell injury model established by homocysteine (Hcy)-induced ovarian granulosa KGN cell line and the potential underlying mechanism. Cell viability was measured using Cell Counting Kit-8 assay in the presence or absence of Hcy and Fer-1. Cell apoptosis was assessed using TUNEL staining and the expression levels of apoptosis-related proteins were measured using western blotting. To explore the effects of Fer-1 on oxidative stress in Hcy-treated ovarian granulosa cells, the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and glutathione (GSH) were measured using their corresponding kits. Furthermore, Fe²⁺ levels were assessed using Phen Green^™ SK labeling and western blotting was performed to measure the protein expression levels of ferroptosis-associated proteins GPX4, SLC7A11, ASCL4 and DMT1. Subsequently, DNA methylation and ten-eleven translocation (TET) 1/2 demethylase levels were also detected to evaluate the extent of overall DNA methylation in ovarian granulosa cells after Hcy treatment. The TET1/2 inhibitor Bobcat339 hydrochloride was applied to treat ovarian granulosa cells before evaluating the possible effects of Fer-1 on TET1/2 and DNA methylation. Fer-1 was found to markedly elevate ovarian granulosa cell viability following Hcy treatment. The apoptosis rate in Fer-1-treated groups was also markedly decreased, which was accompanied by downregulated Bax and cleaved caspase-3 expression and upregulated Bcl-2 protein expression. In addition, Fer-1 treatment reduced the levels of ROS, MDA and LDH whilst enhancing the levels of GSH. Fe²⁺ levels were significantly decreased following Fer-1 treatment, which also elevated glutathione peroxidase 4 expression whilst reducing solute carrier family 7 member 11, achaete-scute family BHLH transcription factor 4 and divalent metal transporter 1 protein expression. Fer-1 significantly inhibited DNA methylation and enhanced TET1/2 levels, which were reversed by treatment with Bobcat339 hydrochloride. Subsequent experiments on cell viability, oxidative stress, Fe²⁺ content, ferroptosis- and apoptosis-related proteins levels revealed that Bobcat339 hydrochloride reversed the effects of Fer-1 on ovarian granulosa Hcy-induced cell injury. These results suggest that Fer-1 may potentially protect ovarian granulosa cells against Hcy-induced injury by increasing TET levels and reducing DNA methylation.

E2 + norethisterone promotes the PI3K-AKT pathway via PGRMC1 to induce breast cancer cell proliferation

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to find evidence that progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1) promotes estradiol (E2) + norethisterone (NET)-induced breast cancer proliferation through activation of the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)-AKT pathway.

METHODS

PGRMC1-mediated breast cancer cellular proliferation and phosphorylation of PGRMC1 were studied using wild-type (hemagglutinin [HA]-tagged) MCF-7 cells, which were stably transfected with expression vector containing HA (MCF-7-HA cells), PGRMC1 (MCF-7-PGRMC1 cells) and Ser181 point mutated PGRMC1 (MCF-7-PGRMC1-S181A cells). Bioinformatics, cell proliferation, western blot, isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ)-based RNA sequencing, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and cell cycle in vitro assays were performed to indicate the function of PGRMC1 and its possible mechanisms in breast cancer.

RESULTS

NET + E2 elicited a significant proliferation in MCF-7-Vec at 10^-6 M and 10^-10 M, respectively. MCF-7-PGRMC1 did increase the phosphorylation of AKT or ERK, which can be blocked by treatment with casein kinase 2 (CK2) inhibitor quinalizarin or in MCF-7-PGRMC1-S181A cells. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis revealed that the PI3K-AKT pathway is upregulated in MCF-7-PGRMC1 cells. Importantly, upregulation of the PI3K-AKT pathway mainly through promotion of cell cycle regulation strongly promoted cell proliferation in MCF-7-PGRMC1 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

CK2 is involved in phosphorylation of PGRMC1 at S181. The mechanism for the action of PGRMC1 for mediating proliferative progestogen effects obviously starts with promotion cell cycle regulation, and then activation of the PI3K-AKT pathway.

GPR43 Suppresses Intestinal Tumor Growth by Modification of the Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Complex 1 Activity in ApcMin/+ Mice

OBJECTIVE

G protein-coupled receptor 43 (GPR43), a receptor for short-chain fatty acids, plays a role in suppressing tumor growth; however, the detailed underlying mechanism needs to be comprehensively elucidated. In this study, we investigated the role of GPR43 in inhibiting tumor growth using ApcMin/+, a murine model of intestinal tumors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using GPR43-/- ApcMin/+ and GPR43+/- ApcMin/+ mice, the number of tumors was analyzed at the end of the experimental period. Immunohistochemistry, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and Western blotting were performed to analyze cellular proliferation and proliferation-associated signal pathways.

RESULTS

Our results revealed that GPR43 deficiency resulted in increased tumor numbers in ApcMin/+ mice. Ki67 was highly expressed in GPR43-/- mice (p > 0.05). Increased expression levels of proinflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α, and amino acid transporters were not observed in GPR43-deficient mice compared to GPR43-sufficient mice. Furthermore, GPR43-deficient tumor tissues showed enhanced mammalian target of rapamycin-mediated phosphorylated ribosomal protein S6 kinase beta-1 (p > 0.05) and phosphorylated eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E-binding protein 1 (p > 0.05), but not Akt (protein kinase B) phosphorylation (p = 0.7088).

CONCLUSION

Collectively, GPR43 affords protection against tumor growth at least partly through inhibition of the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 pathway.

Metabolic Syndrome and PCOS: Pathogenesis and the Role of Metabolites

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine diseases among women of reproductive age and is associated with many metabolic manifestations, such as obesity, insulin resistance (IR) and hyperandrogenism. The underlying pathogenesis of these metabolic symptoms has not yet been fully elucidated. With the application of metabolomics techniques, a variety of metabolite changes have been observed in the serum and follicular fluid (FF) of PCOS patients and animal models. Changes in metabolites result from the daily diet and occur during uncommon physiological routines. However, some of these metabolite changes may provide evidence to explain possible mechanisms and new approaches for prevention and therapy. This article reviews the pathogenesis of PCOS metabolic symptoms and the relationship between metabolites and the pathophysiology of PCOS. Furthermore, the potential clinical application of some specific metabolites will be discussed.

Differential expression and interaction of melatonin and thyroid hormone receptors with estrogen receptor α improve ovarian functions in letrozole-induced rat polycystic ovary syndrome

AIMS

The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of melatonin and L-thyroxine (T4) on the expression of various receptors, and some metabolic, reproductive, and gonadotropic hormones in letrozole-induced polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Assessment of gravimetric, hormonal profile and thyroid histology and relative expression of melatonin receptors (MT1, MT2) and estrogen receptor α (Erα) in thyroid and ovary, and type II iodothyronine deiodinase (Dio2) and thyroid hormone receptor α (TRα) in ovary were done according to standard protocols.

KEY FINDINGS

A significant increase in thyroid follicles numbers was noted in the hyperthyroid rat. T4 treatment to PCOS showed the expected increment in the circulating level of triiodothyronine (T) and T₄. Melatonin and T4 treatment of PCOS rats resulted in a significant decrease in the circulating level of T₃ and T₄. Hyperthyroid rats showed a decrement in plasma melatonin levels. However, T4 treatment to PCOS rats showed increased circulating melatonin levels, and a decrease in the circulating level of gonadotropins (LH and FSH), and testosterone. Melatonin treatment to PCOS-hyperthyroid rats resulted in the normal expression of ovarian and thyroid MT1 and ERα, receptors, which had been altered in PCOS and hyperthyroid rats, without any significant change in the MT2 receptor.

SIGNIFICANCE

The present findings suggest a fine interplay and cross-talk via melatonin and its two receptors with ERα, TRα, and Dio₂ in thyroid and ovarian tissue during PCOS and hyperthyroidism pathogenicity.

Natriuretic peptide receptor a promotes gastric malignancy through angiogenesis process

Gastric cancer (GC) ranks the third among global cancer-related mortality, especially in East Asia. Angiogenesis plays an important role in promoting tumor progression, and clinical trials have demonstrated that anti-angiogenesis therapy is effective in GC management. Natriuretic peptide receptor A (NPRA) functions significantly in promoting GC development and progression. Whether NPRA can promote angiogenesis of GC remains unclear. Tumor samples collection and immunohistochemical experiment showed that the expression of NPRA was positively correlated with the expression of CD31 and vessel density. In vivo and in vitro analysis showed that NPRA could promote GC-associated angiogenesis and tumor metastasis. Results of Co-IP/MS showed that NPRA could prevent HIF-1α from being degraded by binding to HIF-1α. Protection of HIF-1α improved VEGF levels and thus promoted angiogenesis. In summary, NPRA protected HIF-1α from proteolysis by binding to HIF-1α, increased the expression of HIF-1α, and promoted GC angiogenesis. This study has discovered a new mechanism for NPRA to promote gastric cancer development and a new regulatory mechanism for HIF-1α.

Porous Inorganic Materials for Bioanalysis and Diagnostic Applications

Porous inorganic materials play an important role in adsorbing targeted analytes and supporting efficient reactions in analytical science. The detection performance relies on the structural properties of porous materials, considering the tunable pore size, shape, connectivity, etc. Herein, we first clarify the enhancement mechanisms of porous materials for bioanalysis, concerning the detection sensitivity and selectivity. The diagnostic applications of porous material-assisted platforms by coupling with various analytical techniques, including electrochemical sensing, optical spectrometry, and mass spectrometry, etc., are then reviewed. We foresee that advanced porous materials will bring far-reaching implications in bioanalysis toward real-case applications, especially as diagnostic assays in clinical settings.

Downregulating lncRNA NEAT1 induces proliferation and represses apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells in polycystic ovary syndrome via microRNA-381/IGF1 axis

OBJECTIVE

Researchers have revealed the combined functions of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNA (miRNAs) in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This study aimed to understand the role of nuclear-enriched abundant transcript 1 (NEAT1) and miR-381 involving insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) in PCOS.

METHODS

PCOS rat model was established by dehydroepiandrosterone induction. NEAT1, miR-381 and IGF1 expression in ovarian granulosa cells of PCOS patients and ovarian tissues of PCOS rats were tested. Bioinformatics website and dual luciferase reporter gene assay were utilized to verify the relationship between NEAT1 and miR-381 and that between miR-381 and IGF1. Levels of sex hormone, pathological changes and ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis in ovarian tissues of PCOS rats were detected. Ovarian granulosa cell proliferation and apoptosis were analyzed in vitro.

RESULTS

NEAT1 and IGF1 expression increased while miR-381 expression decreased in the ovarian granulosa cells of patients with PCOS and the ovarian tissues of PCOS rats. In in vivo experiments, interference with NEAT1 improved the levels of sex hormones, alleviated pathological changes and suppressed ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis in the ovarian tissues of PCOS rats. In in vitro cell experiments, interference with NEAT1 suppressed apoptosis and enhanced cell proliferation of ovarian granulosa cells. NEAT1 interference-mediated effect would be reversed by up-regulating miR-381. NEAT1 acted as a ceRNA to adsorb miR-381 to target IGF1. Overexpression of IGF1 reversed the inhibitory effect of miR-381 on ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

Interference with NEAT1 increases miR-381 and reduces IGF1 levels, effectively improving the levels of sex hormones and reducing the pathological damage of ovarian tissue in rats with PCOS.

PATL2 regulated the apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells in patients with PCOS

AIM

PCOS often showed abnormal follicular development. Previous studies have found that the increased apoptosis of granulosa cells (GCs) is one of the key factors leading to follicular dysplasia. It has been found that the decrease or deletion of PATL2 function can significantly inhibit the development and maturation of human oocytes. We found that PATL2 was also expressed in human ovarian GCs, suggesting that PATL2 may be involved in the regulation of related biological events in GCs. This study aims to explore the function of PATL2 on regulation of GCs apoptosis, and the potential role of PATL2 in the development of PCOS-related abnormal follicles.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The follicular GCs of PCOS patients and normal ovulating female patients were collected. Moreover, human granular cell line (KGN) was used for in vitro experiments.

RESULTS

(1) The maturation rate and fertilization rate of oocytes in the PCOS group were significantly lower than those in the normal control group (p＜0.05). (2) Flow cytometry and TUNEL staining showed that the apoptosis level of GCs in the PCOS group was significantly increased. (3) Immunofluorescence and Western Blot showed that the PATL2 expression level of GCs in the PCOS group was significantly reduced. (4) Knocking down the expression of PATL2 by siRNA significantly prevented the apoptosis of GCs.

CONCLUSIONS

Reduced PATL2 could resulted in the increased apoptosis level of ovarian GCs, which might be closely related to the occurrence and development of abnormal follicles in PCOS.

Inhibition of sestrin 1 alleviates polycystic ovary syndrome by decreasing autophagy

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age, accounting for 50-70% of anovulatory infertility cases. However, the etiology of PCOS at the molecular level remains unclear. Here, bioinformatics analysis was performed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between adipose tissue of PCOS patients and matched tissues from non-hyperandrogenic women. RT-qPCR, western blot, cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), EdU (5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine) staining, LC3 staining, ROS (reactive oxygen species) detection, and apoptosis assays were conducted to explore the effects of sestrin 1 on KGN human granulosa-like tumor cells. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that DEGs in adipose tissue from PCOS patients were enriched in the p53 signaling pathway. Moreover, sestrin 1 was identified as a major target of the p53 gene. Downregulation of sestrin 1 inhibited proliferation of KGN cells by inhibiting autophagy. Additionally, sestrin 1 downregulation increased ROS generation and promoted apoptosis in KGN cells. By contrast, overexpression of sestrin 1 increased cell viability by increasing autophagy in KGN cells. Together, these results suggest that downregulation of sestrin 1 may be a potential novel treatment strategy for PCOS.

Inhibition of visfatin by FK866 mitigates pathogenesis of cystic ovary in letrozole-induced hyperandrogenised mice

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common reproductive disorder in the female of reproductive age, which is characterized by hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, cystic ovary and infertility. The level of pro-inflammatory adipokine, visfatin is elevated in PCOS conditions in human and animal. In this study, letrozole induced hyperandrogenised PCOS mice model have been used to unravel the effects of visfatin inhibition. The results showed that letrozole induced hyperandrogenisation significantly (p < 0.05) elevates ovarian visfatin concentration from 66.03 ± 1.77 to 112.08 ± 3.7 ng/ml, and visfatin expression to 2.5 fold (p < 0.05) compared to control. Visfatin inhibition in PCOS by FK866 has significantly (p < 0.05) suppressed the secretion of androgens, androstenedione (from 0.329 ± 0.07 to 0.097 ± 0.01 ng/ml) and testosterone levels (from 0.045 ± 0.003 to 0.014 ± 0.0009 ng/ml). Ovarian histology showed that visfatin inhibition suppressed cyst formation and promotes corpus luteum formation. Visfatin inhibition has suppressed apoptosis and increases the expression of BCL2 along with increase in the proliferation (GCNA expression elevated). Visfatin inhibition has increased ovarian glucose content (from 167.05 ± 8.5 to 210 ± 7 mg/dl), along with increase in ovarian GLUT8 expression. In vitro study has also supported the in vivo findings where FK866 treatment significantly (p < 0.05) suppressed testosterone (control-3.84 ± 0.44 ng/ml, 1 nM FK866-2.02 ± 0.048 ng/ml, 10 nM FK866-1.74 ± 0.20 ng/ml) and androstenedione (control-4.68 ± 0.91 ng/ml, 1 nM FK866-3.38 ± 0.27 ng/ml, 10 nM FK866-4.55 ± 0.83 ng/ml) production from PCOS ovary. In conclusion, this is first report, which showed that visfatin inhibition by FK866 in hyperandrogenised mice ameliorates pathogenesis of PCOS. Thus, it may be suggested that visfatin inhibition could have a therapeutic potential in PCOS management along with other intervention.

The Ameliorating Effects of Bushen Huatan Granules and Kunling Wan on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Induced by Dehydroepiandrosterone in Rats

Aim

To investigate the effects of Bushen Huatan Granules (BHG) and Kunling Wan (KW), the two Chinese medicines, on the regulation of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and their underlying mechanisms.

Materials and Methods

PCOS rat model was established by subcutaneous injection of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) (6 mg/100 g/day) for 20 days, followed by treatment with BHG (0.75, 1.49, and 2.99 g/kg) or KW (0.46, 0.91, and 1.82 g/kg) by gavage for 4 weeks. Estrous cycle was detected by vaginal smears. Follicles development was assessed by histology. Levels of testosterone and insulin in serum were tested by ELISA. Apoptosis of Granulosa cells (GCs) was evaluated by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end-labeling staining. Pathways associated with apoptosis were detected with western blot. Pregnancy outcome was also assessed. GCs were pre-treated with 10^–5 M testosterone in vitro for 24 h, then incubated with serum from rats receiving BHG (1.49 g/kg) or KW (1.82 g/kg). The parameters concerning apoptosis, mitochondrial function and endoplasmic reticulum stress were assessed.

Results

Post-treatment with either BHG or KW ameliorated DHEA-induced irregular estrous cycles, follicles development abnormalities, increase of testosterone and insulin in serum, and the apoptosis of GCs. Post-treatment with BHG decreased the expression of cleaved caspase-9/caspase 9, release of cytochrome C from mitochondria, and mitochondria reactive oxygen species production, increased activities of complex I, II, IV of ovarian tissue. Post-treatment with KW decreased the levels of caspase-12, GRP78, C/EBP homologous protein, phosphorylation of IRE-I, x-box-binding protein 1s, as well as phosphorylation of proline-rich receptor-like protein kinase, phosphorylation of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α and ATF4 of ovarian tissue and GCs. Both BHG and KW ameliorated pregnancy outcome.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated BHG or KW as a potential strategy for treatment of PCOS induced by DHEA, and suggested that the beneficial role of the two medicines were mediated by different pathway with the effect of BHG being correlated with the regulation of mitochondria, while the effect of KW being attributable to protection of endoplasmic reticulum stress.

MicroRNA-874-3p promotes testosterone-induced granulosa cell apoptosis by suppressing HDAC1-mediated p53 deacetylation

MicroRNA (miR)-874-3p is a newly identified miRNA that is involved in several pathological processes, including cancer, myocardial infarction, bone formation and erectile dysfunction. However, the role of miR-874-3p in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and granulosa cell (GC) apoptosis is not completely understood. The present study investigated the expression profile of miR-874-3p in PCOS by reverse transcription- quantitative PCR and the GC apoptosis by flow cytometry analysis. miR-874-3p expression was significantly upregulated in GCs isolated from patients with PCOS compared with patients without PCOS. In addition, miR-874-3p expression was positively correlated with GC apoptosis and testosterone levels in both patients with PCOS and patients without PCOS. Therefore, the present study also aimed to investigate the effects of miR-874-3p on testosterone-induced GC apoptosis. Compared with vehicle-treated GCs, miR-874-3p expression levels were significantly increased in testosterone-treated GCs, which was inhibited by the androgen receptor antagonist flutamide. GCs were transfected with either the miR-874-3p mimic or a miR-874-3p inhibitor. Compared with the control group, miR-874-3p mimic significantly enhanced GC apoptosis, whereas miR-874-3p inhibitor significantly decreased GC apoptosis. Moreover, histone deacetylase (HDAC) activity and HDAC1 expression levels were decreased in testosterone-treated GCs compared with vehicle-treated GCs. HDAC1 overexpression significantly attenuated the proapoptotic effects of testosterone. Additionally, miR-874-3p mimic and inhibitor significantly decreased and increased HDAC1 expression levels, respectively, compared with the control group. miR-874-3p inhibitor failed to attenuate HDAC1 overexpression-induced GC apoptosis. Furthermore, compared with the control group, testosterone treatment notably increased p53 expression and acetylation. Compared with the control group, western blotting analysis showed that miR-874-3p mimic notably increased p53 expression and acetylation, whereas miR-874-3p inhibitor markedly decreased p53 expression and acetylation. However, miR-874-3p inhibitor did not further decrease p53 acetylation and expression in cell overexpressing HDAC1. Collectively, the results of the present study indicated that miR-874-3p was upregulated in PCOS and promoted testosterone-induced GC apoptosis by suppressing HDAC1-mediated p53 deacetylation. Therefore, the present study improved the current understanding of the pathogenesis of PCOS and GC apoptosis.

The ameliorating effects of tokishakuyakusan in a rat model of implantation failure involves endometrial gland leukemia inhibitory factor and decidualization

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Tokishakuyakusan (TSS) is a Kampo medicine that is prescribed for the treatment of infertility in Japan. However, its precise mechanism of action remains unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) in the endometrium plays an indispensable role in embryo implantation and is linked to infertility or implantation failure. Previously, we demonstrated that TSS ameliorated implantation failure induced by mifepristone (RU-486), an antagonist of progesterone, in rats. Herein, we aimed to clarify whether the ameliorating effect of TSS on implantation failure in the rat model involves endometrial LIF. Additionally, we determined whether decidualization, the dysfunction of which is linked to infertility or implantation failure similar to LIF, progesterone, and other implantation-related factors, are involved in the effect of TSS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The implantation failure rat model was developed via the subcutaneous administration of RU-486 (7 mg/kg) on day 3 post-coitus. Sesame oil was administered as the vehicle control. Rats were fed a diet containing 1% or 3% TSS or a control diet from day 13 pre-coitus. Subsequently, the implantation sites were assessed, and plasma progesterone levels were analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) on day 8 post-coitus. The LIF mRNA of the endometrial gland, which was segmented via laser-microdissection from the endometrial tissue, was measured, and endometrial LIF immunostaining was carried out on day 5. The gene expression of different factors related to implantation, including decidualization and progesterone-responsiveness on days 5 and 6, were measured. The human endometrial Ishikawa cell line derived from human adenocarcinoma was treated with TSS (30-300 μg/mL) for 24 h, and the LIF concentrations in the cell culture supernatants were measured.

RESULTS

RU-486 decreased the number of implantation sites in the uterus of rats; however, the decrease was significantly alleviated by TSS (3%-diet), which tended to increase plasma progesterone. In rats with RU-486-induced implantation failure, endometrial gland LIF mRNA and endometrial LIF protein were markedly decreased while the gene expression of both decidualization-related factors such as interleukin-11, insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1, and cyclooxygenase-2, and progesterone responsive-related factors such as FK506 binding protein 5, were significantly decreased. These changes in the uterus of rats with implantation failure were significantly alleviated by TSS (3%-diet). Additionally, TSS significantly enhanced LIF protein production and LIF mRNA in Ishikawa cells.

CONCLUSIONS

The mechanism whereby TSS ameliorates RU-486-induced implantation failure in rats may involve the alleviation of decreased LIF production derived from the endometrial gland, and a dysfunction of decidualization, including lower progesterone responsiveness in the model. These findings may partly contribute to the interpretation of the beneficial effects of TSS on infertility.

LncRNA HOTAIRM1, miR-433-5p and PIK3CD function as a ceRNA network to exacerbate the development of PCOS

Background

Currently, several non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) were distinguished in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). This present study aims to explore the potential function of lncRNA HOTAIRM1/miR-433-5p/PIK3CD in ovarian granulosa cells.

Methods

We analyzed the expression profiles of HOTAIRM1, miR-433-5p and PIK3CD in PCOS samples by enquiring GEO database. GSEA was applied to enrich the pathways related to PCOS. The target association between HOTAIRM1 and miR-433-5p or the binding association between miR-433-5p and PIK3CD were assessed by online prediction tools and a dual luciferase reporter assay. qPCR and western blotting assays were used to detect PIK3CD expression after HOTAIRM1 and miR-433-5p treatment. The proliferation and apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells were estimated by cell counting kit-8 and flow cytometry assays, respectively.

Results

The expression profiles of HOTAIRM1 and PIK3CD were increased, whereas miR-433-5p was decreased in PCOS tissues. PIK3CD expression was positively regulated by HOTAIRM1 and negatively modulated by miR-433-5p. Overexpression of HOTAIRM1 reduced the proliferative ability and increased the apoptotic ability of granulosa cells, whereas upregulation of miR-433-5p or downregulation of PIK3CD reversed the effects of HOTAIRM1 on granulosa cells. Moreover, overexpression of miR-433-5 displayed a results with increasing proliferative ability and decreasing apoptotic ability, but upregulation of PIK3CD eliminated the function of miR-433-5p on granulosa cells.

Conclusions

Our findings illustrated that HOTAIRM1 could sponge miR-433-5p to promote PIK3CD expression, thereby regulating the growth and apoptosis of granulose cells in PCOS.

Molecular Targets and Associated Signaling Pathways of Jingshu Granules in Ovarian Cysts Based on Systemic Pharmacological Analysis

Background

More than a third of women could develop ovarian cysts during their lifetime. Jingshu granules are used for the treatment of gynecological disease of primary dysmenorrhea. However, the molecular mechanisms of Jingshu granules in ovarian cysts are still unreported. We aimed to find the active ingredients, molecular targets, and potential signaling pathways of Jingshu granules in ovarian cysts by using the systemic pharmacological analysis.

Methods

Firstly, the effect of Jingshu granules on female hormones and reproductive organs of young female rats was evaluated. Secondly, candidate pharmaceutical ingredients of Jingshu granules were retrieved from the traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology (TCMSP) database and analysis platform. Potential protein targets for the active ingredients in Jingshu granules were then identified according to the oral bioavailability and drug-likeness indices. Thirdly, ovarian cyst-related gene targets were screened based on different databases. Finally, enrichment analysis was used to analyze the potential biological function of intersection targets between Jingshu granules and ovarian cysts.

Results

In young female rats, Jingshu granules reduced the secretion of estradiol, progesterone, and prolactin and could affect the development of the uterus. This suggested that Jingshu granules played roles in hormone secretion and reproduction. From the TCMSP, a total of 1021 pharmaceutical ingredients of Jingshu granules were retrieved. After further screening, a total of 166 active ingredients and 159 protein targets of Jingshu granules were identified. In addition, 4488 gene targets of ovarian cysts were screened out. After taking the intersection, a total of 110 intersection targets were identified between potential protein targets of Jingshu granules and gene targets of ovarian cysts. In the functional analysis of 110 intersection targets, 8 signaling pathways including progesterone-mediated oocyte maturation (MAPK8 and CDK1 involved), GnRH signaling pathway (JUN involved), T cell receptor signaling pathway and Toll-like receptor signaling pathway (MAPK1 involved), NOD-like receptor signaling pathway (TNF, IL6, and IL1B involved), p53 signaling pathway (CDK2 and CDK4 involved), VEGF signaling pathway (MAPK14 involved), and PPAR signaling pathway (PPARG involved) were obtained.

Conclusion

Our study revealed that Jingshu granules could function in patients with ovarian cysts through a number of molecular targets and signaling pathways. Our study may provide a new field into the mechanisms of Jingshu granules in ovarian cysts, from the molecular to the signaling pathway level.

The role of miRNAs in polycystic ovary syndrome with insulin resistance

PURPOSE

This review aims to summarize the key findings of several miRNAs and their roles in polycystic ovary syndrome with insulin resistance, characterize the disease pathogenesis, and establish a new theoretical basis for diagnosing, treating, and preventing polycystic ovary syndrome.

METHODS

Relevant scientific literature was covered from 1992 to 2020 by searching the PubMed database with search terms: insulin/insulin resistance, polycystic ovary syndrome, microRNAs, and metabolic diseases. References of relevant studies were cross-checked.

RESULTS

The related miRNAs (including differentially expressed miRNAs) and their roles in pathogenesis, and possible therapeutic targets and pathways, are discussed, highlighting controversies and offering thoughts for future directions.

CONCLUSION

We found abundant evidence on the role of differentially expressed miRNAs with its related phenotypes in PCOS. Considering the essential role of insulin resistance in the pathogenesis of PCOS, the alterations of associated miRNAs need more research attention. We speculate that race/ethnicity or PCOS phenotype and differences in methodological differences might lead to inconsistencies in research findings; thus, several miRNA profiles need to be investigated further to qualify for the potential therapeutic targets for PCOS-IR.

miR-206 serves an important role in polycystic ovary syndrome through modulating ovarian granulosa cell proliferation and apoptosis

An increasing number of studies have reported that microRNAs (miRNAs) have an important role in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Downregulation of miR-206 in patients with PCOS has been found, however, its specific role remains unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the roles of miR-206 in (PCOS) and to determine the underlying molecular mechanisms. Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was performed to analyze the expression levels of miR-206 in normal ovarian surface epithelial IOSE80 cells and human ovarian granulosa cell-like KGN cells. TargetScan was used to predict the target gene of miR-206, which was subsequently verified using a dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. The mRNA expression levels of cyclin D2 (CCND2) and the transfection efficiencies of the miR-206 mimic and CCDN2 overexpression plasmid were determined using RT-qPCR analysis. The protein expression levels of CCND2, cleaved-caspase-3 and pro-caspase-3 were analyzed using western blotting, and an MTT assay and flow cytometric analysis were used to evaluate the cell viability and levels of apoptosis, respectively, in the cells following transfection. Finally, the activity of caspase-3 was analyzed using a caspase-3 activity assay kit. The results of the present study revealed that the expression levels of miR-206 were downregulated in KGN cells compared with IOSE80 cells. CCND2 was predicted and verified to be a direct target gene of miR-206, and the mRNA and protein expression levels of CCND2 were discovered to be upregulated in KGN cells compared with IOSE80 cells. The miR-206 mimic and CCND2 overexpression plasmid significantly upregulated the expression levels of miR-206 and CCND2, respectively, in KGN cells. The miR-206 mimic also downregulated the expression levels of CCND2 in KGN cells, while this effect was reversed following the transfection with the CCND2 overexpression plasmid. Compared with the mimic control group, the miR-206 mimic significantly decreased the cell viability, induced the levels of apoptosis, increased the activity of caspase-3, upregulated cleaved-caspase-3 protein expression levels and downregulated pro-caspase-3 protein expression levels in KGN cells following transfection; these effects were reversed following the overexpression of CCND2. In conclusion, the findings of the present study suggested that miR-206 may serve an important role in PCOS through modulating ovarian granulosa cell viability and apoptosis.

The KMT2A gene: mRNA differential expression in the ovary and a novel 13-nt nucleotide sequence variant associated with litter size in cashmere goats

A genome-wide association study had shown that lysine methyltransferase 2A (KMT2A), which encodes the histone 3 lysine 4 methyltransferase and reportedly can regulate gametogenesis, steroidogenesis, and development as well as other biological processes, is a potential candidate gene influencing litter size in the dairy goat, suggesting its key function in animal reproduction. Here, we aimed to explore the genetic effects of the KMT2A gene on litter size in females of the Chinese indigenous cashmere goat, using a large sample size (n > 1,000), based on their levels of RNA transcription and DNA variation. First, mRNA expression levels of this gene in ovarian tissues between the low-prolific group (first-born litter size = 1) and high-prolific group (first-born litter size ≥2) were significantly different, revealing the potential functioning of KMT2A in goat prolific. Moreover, a novel 13-nt nucleotide sequence variant was identified in Shaanbei white cashmere goats (n = 1,616). In accordance with the independent chi-square (χ²) analysis, the distribution of genotypes (P = 2.57 × 10^-9) and allelotypes (P = 3.00 × 10^-7) between the low- and high-prolific groups differed significantly, indicating the 13-nt mutation was associated with litter size. Further analysis showed that the insertion/insertion (II) genotype was significantly different with insertion/deletion (ID) (P = 1.76 × 10^-9) and deletion/deletion (DD) (P = 7.00 × 10^-6), with goats having the DD genotype producing an average litter size larger than the other genotypes. Taken together, these findings suggest KMT2A can serve as a candidate gene for breeding goats, which may have implications for improving the future development of the goat industry.

Long non-coding RNA lnc-CCNL1-3:1 promotes granulosa cell apoptosis and suppresses glucose uptake in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine and metabolic disease in premenopausal women. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) constitute important factors in numerous biological processes. However, their roles in PCOS pathogenesis require further clarification. Our study aims to elucidate the roles of lncRNA lnc-CCNL1-3:1 (CCNL) in PCOS. CCNL expression in human luteinized granulosa cells (hLGCs) derived from women with and without PCOS was detected. The full length of CCNL was obtained by 5' and 3' rapid amplification of cDNA ends. CCNL roles in granulosa cell apoptosis, mitochondrial function, and glucose uptake were evaluated. The binding relationship between CCNL and forkhead box O1 (FOXO1) was determined by RPISeq, RNA immunoprecipitation, subcellular fractionation, and immunofluorescence. In KGN cells and hLGCs, CCNL overexpression upregulated FOXO1 expression, promoted cell apoptosis, reduced glucose transport capability, and impaired mitochondrial function, and these effects were partially abolished by silencing FOXO1. The interaction of CCNL with FOXO1 might prevents FOXO1 exclusion from the nucleus and subsequent degradation in the cytosol. We determined that CCNL serve as a facilitator in the processes of PCOS. CCNL might participate in PCOS pathologies such as follicular atresia and insulin resistance.