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Vlieghe H, Sousa MJ, Charif D, Amorim CA. Unveiling the Differentiation Potential of Ovarian Theca Interna Cells from Multipotent Stem Cell-like Cells. Cells 2024; 13:1248. [PMID: 39120279 PMCID: PMC11311681 DOI: 10.3390/cells13151248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Theca interna cells (TICs) are an indispensable cell source for ovarian follicle development and steroidogenesis. Recent studies have identified theca stem cells (TSCs) in both humans and animals. Interestingly, TSCs express mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-related markers and can differentiate into mesenchymal lineages. MSCs are promising for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine due to their self-renewal and differentiation abilities. Therefore, this study investigated the potential origin of TICs from MSCs. DESIGN Whole ovaries from postmenopausal organ donors were obtained, and their cortex was cryopreserved prior to the isolation of stromal cells. These isolated cells were differentiated in vitro to TICs using cell media enriched with various growth factors and hormones. Immunocytochemistry, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, flow cytometry, and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain were employed at different timepoints. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA. RESULTS Immunocytochemistry showed an increase in TIC markers from day 0 to day 8 and a significant rise in MSC-like markers on day 2. This corresponds with rising androstenedione levels from day 2 to day 13. Flow cytometry identified a decreasing MSC-like cell population from day 2 onwards. The CD13+ cell population and its gene expression increased significantly over time. NGFR and PDGFRA expression was induced on days 0 and 2, respectively, compared to day 13. CONCLUSIONS This study offers insights into MSC-like cells as the potential origin of TICs. Differentiating TICs from these widely accessible MSCs holds potential significance for toxicity studies and investigating TIC-related disorders like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Christiani A. Amorim
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 54, bte B1.55.03, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (H.V.); (M.J.S.); (D.C.)
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2
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Guo Y, Xue L, Tang W, Xiong J, Chen D, Dai Y, Wu C, Wei S, Dai J, Wu M, Wang S. Ovarian microenvironment: challenges and opportunities in protecting against chemotherapy-associated ovarian damage. Hum Reprod Update 2024:dmae020. [PMID: 38942605 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmae020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemotherapy-associated ovarian damage (CAOD) is one of the most feared short- and long-term side effects of anticancer treatment in premenopausal women. Accumulating detailed data show that different chemotherapy regimens can lead to disturbance of ovarian hormone levels, reduced or lost fertility, and an increased risk of early menopause. Previous studies have often focused on the direct effects of chemotherapeutic drugs on ovarian follicles, such as direct DNA damage-mediated apoptotic death and primordial follicle burnout. Emerging evidence has revealed an imbalance in the ovarian microenvironment during chemotherapy. The ovarian microenvironment provides nutritional support and transportation of signals that stimulate the growth and development of follicles, ovulation, and corpus luteum formation. The close interaction between the ovarian microenvironment and follicles can determine ovarian function. Therefore, designing novel and precise strategies to manipulate the ovarian microenvironment may be a new strategy to protect ovarian function during chemotherapy. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review details the changes that occur in the ovarian microenvironment during chemotherapy and emphasizes the importance of developing new therapeutics that protect ovarian function by targeting the ovarian microenvironment during chemotherapy. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive review of the literature was performed by searching PubMed up to April 2024. Search terms included 'ovarian microenvironment' (ovarian extracellular matrix, ovarian stromal cells, ovarian interstitial, ovarian blood vessels, ovarian lymphatic vessels, ovarian macrophages, ovarian lymphocytes, ovarian immune cytokines, ovarian oxidative stress, ovarian reactive oxygen species, ovarian senescence cells, ovarian senescence-associated secretory phenotypes, ovarian oogonial stem cells, ovarian stem cells), terms related to ovarian function (reproductive health, fertility, infertility, fecundity, ovarian reserve, ovarian function, menopause, decreased ovarian reserve, premature ovarian insufficiency/failure), and terms related to chemotherapy (cyclophosphamide, lfosfamide, chlormethine, chlorambucil, busulfan, melphalan, procarbazine, cisplatin, doxorubicin, carboplatin, taxane, paclitaxel, docetaxel, 5-fluorouraci, vincristine, methotrexate, dactinomycin, bleomycin, mercaptopurine). OUTCOMES The ovarian microenvironment shows great changes during chemotherapy, inducing extracellular matrix deposition and stromal fibrosis, angiogenesis disorders, immune microenvironment disturbance, oxidative stress imbalances, ovarian stem cell exhaustion, and cell senescence, thereby lowering the quantity and quality of ovarian follicles. Several methods targeting the ovarian microenvironment have been adopted to prevent and treat CAOD, such as stem cell therapy and the use of free radical scavengers, senolytherapies, immunomodulators, and proangiogenic factors. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Ovarian function is determined by its 'seeds' (follicles) and 'soil' (ovarian microenvironment). The ovarian microenvironment has been reported to play a vital role in CAOD and targeting the ovarian microenvironment may present potential therapeutic approaches for CAOD. However, the relation between the ovarian microenvironment, its regulatory networks, and CAOD needs to be further studied. A better understanding of these issues could be helpful in explaining the pathogenesis of CAOD and creating innovative strategies for counteracting the effects exerted on ovarian function. Our aim is that this narrative review of CAOD will stimulate more research in this important field. REGISTRATION NUMBER Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yican Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Liru Xue
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Weicheng Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jiaqiang Xiong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Dan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yun Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Chuqing Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Simin Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jun Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Meng Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shixuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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3
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Ju W, Zhao Y, Yu Y, Zhao S, Xiang S, Lian F. Mechanisms of mitochondrial dysfunction in ovarian aging and potential interventions. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1361289. [PMID: 38694941 PMCID: PMC11061492 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1361289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria plays an essential role in regulating cellular metabolic homeostasis, proliferation/differentiation, and cell death. Mitochondrial dysfunction is implicated in many age-related pathologies. Evidence supports that the dysfunction of mitochondria and the decline of mitochondrial DNA copy number negatively affect ovarian aging. However, the mechanism of ovarian aging is still unclear. Treatment methods, including antioxidant applications, mitochondrial transplantation, emerging biomaterials, and advanced technologies, are being used to improve mitochondrial function and restore oocyte quality. This article reviews key evidence and research updates on mitochondrial damage in the pathogenesis of ovarian aging, emphasizing that mitochondrial damage may accelerate and lead to cellular senescence and ovarian aging, as well as exploring potential methods for using mitochondrial mechanisms to slow down aging and improve oocyte quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhan Ju
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yuewen Zhao
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Yi Yu
- Department of Reproduction and Genetics, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Shuai Zhao
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Shan Xiang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Fang Lian
- Department of Reproduction and Genetics, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
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4
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Zhou C, Guo Q, Lin J, Wang M, Zeng Z, Li Y, Li X, Xiang Y, Liang Q, Liu J, Wu T, Zeng Y, He S, Wang S, Zeng H, Liang X. Single-Cell Atlas of Human Ovaries Reveals The Role Of The Pyroptotic Macrophage in Ovarian Aging. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2305175. [PMID: 38036420 PMCID: PMC10811476 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202305175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Female fecundity declines in a nonlinear manner with age during the reproductive years, even as ovulatory cycles continue, which reduces female fertility, disrupts metabolic homeostasis, and eventually induces various chronic diseases. Despite this, the aging-related cellular and molecular changes in human ovaries that occur during these reproductive years have not been elucidated. Here, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) of human ovaries is performed from different childbearing ages and reveals that the activation of the pyroptosis pathway increased with age, mainly in macrophages. The enrichment of pyroptotic macrophages leads to a switch from a tissue-resident macrophage (TRM)-involve immunoregulatory microenvironment in young ovaries to a pyroptotic monocyte-derived macrophage (MDM)-involved proinflammatory microenvironment in middle-aged ovaries. This remolded ovarian immuno-microenvironment further promotes stromal cell senescence and accelerated reproductive decline. This hypothesis is validated in a series of cell and animal experiments using GSDMD-KO mice. In conclusion, the work expands the current understanding of the ovarian aging process by illustrating a pyroptotic macrophage-involved immune mechanism, which has important implications for the development of novel strategies to delay senescence and promote reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanchuan Zhou
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Biomedical Innovation CenterThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
| | - Qi Guo
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Biomedical Innovation CenterThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
| | - Jiayu Lin
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong S.A.R.999077China
| | - Meng Wang
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Reproductive Medicine CenterThe First People's Hospital of FoshanFoshan528000China
| | - Zhi Zeng
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Biomedical Innovation CenterThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
| | - Yujie Li
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Biomedical Innovation CenterThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
| | - Xiaolan Li
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
| | - Yuting Xiang
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyAffiliated Dongguan HospitalSouthern Medical UniversityDongguan523795China
| | - Qiqi Liang
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Biomedical Innovation CenterThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
| | - Jiawen Liu
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Biomedical Innovation CenterThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
| | - Taibao Wu
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Biomedical Innovation CenterThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
| | - Yanyan Zeng
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Biomedical Innovation CenterThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
| | - Shanyang He
- Department of GynecologyGuangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences)Southern Medical UniversityGuangzhou519041China
| | - Sanfeng Wang
- Department of GynecologyGuangdong Women and Children Hospital521 Xing Nan RoadGuangzhouGuangdong511400China
| | - Haitao Zeng
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Biomedical Innovation CenterThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
| | - Xiaoyan Liang
- Center of Reproductive MedicineThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility PreservationGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
- Biomedical Innovation CenterThe Sixth Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510080China
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Khaleghi S, Eivazkhani F, Tavana S, Moini A, Novin MG, Stoyan P, Nazarian H, Fathi R. Follicular reconstruction and neo-oogenesis in xenotransplantation of human ovarian isolated cells derived from chemotherapy-induced POF patients. J Biol Eng 2023; 17:70. [PMID: 37986177 PMCID: PMC10662631 DOI: 10.1186/s13036-023-00384-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Developing new strategies to restore fertility in patients with chemotherapy-induced Premature Ovarian Failure (Chemo-POF) is important. We aimed to construct an Artificial Ovary (AO) by seeding Human Ovarian Cortical Cells (HOCCs) into Human ovarian Decellularized Cortical Tissue (DCT). We assessed the AO's ability to produce new ovarian follicles following xenotransplantation to NMRI mice. MATERIAL AND METHODS The DCTs were prepared, and cell removal was confirmed through DNA content, MTT assay, DAPI and H&E staining. Next, HOCCs were isolated from both Chemo-POF and Trans (as a control group) ovarian patients. The HOCCs were characterized using immunostaining (FRAGILIS, Vimentin, and Inhibin α) and real time PCR (DDX4, STELLA, FRAGILIS, Vimentin, FSH-R, KI67) assays. The HOCCs were then seeded into the DCTs and cultured for one week to construct an AO, which was subsequently xenotransplanted into the mice. The existence of active follicles within the AO was studied with H&E and immunofluorescence (GDF9) staining, Real-time PCR (GDF9, ZP3) and hormone analysis (Estradiol, FSH and AMH). RESULTS The results of gene expression and immunostaining showed that 85-86% of the isolated cells from both Trans and Chemo-POF groups were positive for vimentin, while 2-5% were granulosa cells and OSCs were less than 3%. After xenotransplantation, histological study confirmed the presence of morphologically healthy reconstructed human ovarian follicles. Additionally, immunofluorescence staining of GDF9 and hormonal assay confirmed the presence of secretory-active follicles on the AO. CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrate that an artificial ovary produced by seeding HOCCs on DCT can support HOCCs proliferation as well as neo-oogenesis, and enable sex hormone secretion following xenotransplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Khaleghi
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farideh Eivazkhani
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Somayeh Tavana
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ashraf Moini
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Royan Institute of Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Breast Disease Research Center (BDRC), Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marefat Ghaffari Novin
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Petkov Stoyan
- Platform Degenerative Diseases, German Primate Center, GmbH, Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Göttingen, 37077, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Göttingen, Göttingen, 37077, Germany
| | - Hamid Nazarian
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Rouhollah Fathi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
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Canosa S, Revelli A, Gennarelli G, Cormio G, Loizzi V, Arezzo F, Petracca EA, Carosso AR, Cimadomo D, Rienzi L, Vaiarelli A, Ubaldi FM, Silvestris E. Innovative Strategies for Fertility Preservation in Female Cancer Survivors: New Hope from Artificial Ovary Construction and Stem Cell-Derived Neo-Folliculogenesis. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2748. [PMID: 37893822 PMCID: PMC10606281 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11202748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in anticancer treatment have significantly improved the survival rate of young females; unfortunately, in about one third of cancer survivors the risk of ovarian insufficiency and infertility is still quite relevant. As the possibility of becoming a mother after recovery from a juvenile cancer is an important part of the quality of life, several procedures to preserve fertility have been developed: ovarian surgical transposition, induction of ovarian quiescence by gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRH-a) treatment, and oocyte and/or ovarian cortical tissue cryopreservation. Ovarian tissue cryostorage and allografting is a valuable technique that applies even to prepubertal girls; however, some patients cannot benefit from it due to the high risk of reintroducing cancer cells during allograft in cases of ovary-metastasizing neoplasias, such as leukemias or NH lymphomas. Innovative techniques are now under investigation, as in the construction of an artificial ovary made of isolated follicles inserted into an artificial matrix scaffold, and the use of stem cells, including ovarian stem cells (OSCs), to obtain neo-folliculogenesis and the development of fertilizable oocytes from the exhausted ovarian tissue. This review synthesizes and discusses these innovative techniques, which potentially represent interesting strategies in oncofertility programs and a new hope for young female cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Canosa
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.)
| | - Alberto Revelli
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.)
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 2U, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Gianluca Gennarelli
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.)
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Gennaro Cormio
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Vera Loizzi
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Francesca Arezzo
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Easter Anna Petracca
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
| | - Andrea Roberto Carosso
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Danilo Cimadomo
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
| | - Laura Rienzi
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Alberto Vaiarelli
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
| | - Filippo Maria Ubaldi
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
| | - Erica Silvestris
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
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Haider S, Beristain AG. Human organoid systems in modeling reproductive tissue development, function, and disease. Hum Reprod 2023:7147082. [PMID: 37119533 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Research focused on human reproductive biology has primarily relied upon clinical samples affording mainly descriptive studies with limited implementation of functional or mechanistic understanding. More importantly, restricted access to human embryonic material has necessitated the use of animals, primarily rats and mice, and short-term primary cell cultures derived from human patient material. While reproductive developmental processes are generally conserved across mammals, specific features unique to human reproduction have resulted in the development of human-based in vitro systems designed to retain or recapitulate key molecular and cellular processes important in humans. Of note, major advances in 3D epithelial stem cell-based systems modeling human reproductive organ development have been made. These cultures, broadly referred to as organoids, enable research aimed at understanding cellular hierarchies and processes controlling cellular differentiation and function. Moreover, organoids allow the pre-clinical testing of pharmacological substances, both from safety and efficacy standpoints, and hold large potential in driving aspects of personalized medicine that were previously not possible with traditional models. In this mini-review, we focus on summarizing the current state of regenerative organoid culture systems of the female and male reproductive tracts that model organ development, maintenance, and function. Specifically, we will introduce stem cell-based organoid models of the ovary/fallopian tube, endometrium, cervix, prostate gland, and testes. We will also describe organoid systems of the pre-implanting blastocyst and trophoblast, as the blastocyst and its extraembryonic trophectoderm are central to fetal, maternal, and overall pregnancy health. We describe the foundational studies leading to their development and outline the utility as well as specific limitations that are unique and common to many of these in vitro platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Haider
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexander G Beristain
- The British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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8
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MacDonald JA, Sheehan HC, Piasecki A, Faustino LR, Hauschildt C, Stolzenbach V, Woods DC, Tilly JL. Characterization of Oogonial Stem Cells in Adult Mouse Ovaries with Age and Comparison to In Silico Data on Human Ovarian Aging. Stem Cells Dev 2023; 32:99-114. [PMID: 36594561 PMCID: PMC9986025 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2022.0284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Many adult somatic stem cell lineages are comprised of subpopulations that differ in gene expression, mitotic activity, and differentiation status. In this study, we explored if cellular heterogeneity also exists within oogonial stem cells (OSCs), and how chronological aging impacts OSCs. In OSCs isolated from mouse ovaries by flow cytometry and established in culture, we identified subpopulations of OSCs that could be separated based on differential expression of stage-specific embryonic antigen 1 (SSEA1) and cluster of differentiation 61 (CD61). Levels of aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity were inversely related to OSC differentiation, whereas commitment of OSCs to differentiation through transcriptional activation of stimulated by retinoic acid gene 8 was marked by a decline in ALDH activity and in SSEA1 expression. Analysis of OSCs freshly isolated from ovaries of mice between 3 and 20 months of age revealed that these subpopulations were present and persisted throughout adult life. However, expression of developmental pluripotency associated 3 (Dppa3), an epigenetic modifier that promotes OSC differentiation into oocytes, was lost as the mice transitioned from a time of reproductive compromise (10 months) to reproductive failure (15 months). Further analysis showed that OSCs from aged females could be established in culture, and that once established the cultured cells reactivated Dppa3 expression and the capacity for oogenesis. Analysis of single-nucleus RNA sequence data sets generated from ovaries of women in their 20s versus those in their late 40s to early 50s showed that the frequency of DPPA3-expressing cells decreased with advancing age, and this was paralleled by reduced expression of several key meiotic differentiation genes. These data support the existence of OSC subpopulations that differ in gene expression profiles and differentiation status. In addition, an age-related decrease in Dppa3/DPPA3 expression, which is conserved between mice and humans, may play a role in loss of the ability of OSCs to maintain oogenesis with age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A MacDonald
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hannah C Sheehan
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andrew Piasecki
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Luciana R Faustino
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Charlotte Hauschildt
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Victor Stolzenbach
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dori C Woods
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jonathan L Tilly
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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9
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Morimoto Y, Gamage USK, Yamochi T, Saeki N, Morimoto N, Yamanaka M, Koike A, Miyamoto Y, Tanaka K, Fukuda A, Hashimoto S, Yanagimachi R. Mitochondrial Transfer into Human Oocytes Improved Embryo Quality and Clinical Outcomes in Recurrent Pregnancy Failure Cases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032738. [PMID: 36769061 PMCID: PMC9917531 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the most critical issues to be solved in reproductive medicine is the treatment of patients with multiple failures of assisted reproductive treatment caused by low-quality embryos. This study investigated whether mitochondrial transfer to human oocytes improves embryo quality and provides subsequent acceptable clinical results and normality to children born due to the use of this technology. We transferred autologous mitochondria extracted from oogonia stem cells to mature oocytes with sperm at the time of intracytoplasmic sperm injection in 52 patients with recurrent failures (average 5.3 times). We assessed embryo quality using the following three methods: good-quality embryo rates, transferable embryo rates, and a novel embryo-scoring system (embryo quality score; EQS) in 33 patients who meet the preset inclusion criteria for analysis. We also evaluated the clinical outcomes of the in vitro fertilization and development of children born using this technology and compared the mtDNA sequences of the children and their mothers. The good-quality embryo rates, transferable embryo rates, and EQS significantly increased after mitochondrial transfer and resulted in 13 babies born in normal conditions. The mtDNA sequences were almost identical to the respective maternal sequences at the 83 major sites examined. Mitochondrial transfer into human oocytes is an effective clinical option to enhance embryo quality in recurrent in vitro fertilization-failure cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiharu Morimoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, HORAC Grand Front Osaka Clinic, Osaka 530-0011, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-90-3707-8824
| | | | - Takayuki Yamochi
- Reproductive Science Institute, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
| | - Noriatsu Saeki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nippon Life Hospital, Osaka 550-0006, Japan
| | - Naoharu Morimoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IVF Namba Clinic, Osaka 550-0015, Japan
| | - Masaya Yamanaka
- Department of Research, IVF Namba Clinic, Osaka 550-0015, Japan
| | - Akiko Koike
- Department of Reproductive Technology, HORAC Grand Front Osaka Clinic, Osaka 530-0011, Japan
| | - Yuki Miyamoto
- Department of Reproductive Technology, HORAC Grand Front Osaka Clinic, Osaka 530-0011, Japan
| | - Kumiko Tanaka
- Department of Integrated Medicine, HORAC Grand Front Osaka Clinic, Osaka 530-0011, Japan
| | - Aisaku Fukuda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IVF Osaka Clinic, Osaka 577-0012, Japan
| | - Shu Hashimoto
- Reproductive Science Institute, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
| | - Ryuzo Yanagimachi
- Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry and Physiology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
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10
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Kelsey T. Models and Biomarkers for Ovarian Ageing. Subcell Biochem 2023; 103:185-199. [PMID: 37120469 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-26576-1_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
The human ovarian reserve is defined by the number of non-growing follicles (NGFs) in the ovary, with the age-related decline in NGF population determining age at menopause for healthy women. In this chapter, the concept of ovarian reserve is explored in detail, with a sequence of models described that in principle allow any individual to be compared to the general population. As there is no current technology that can count the NGFs in a living ovary, we move our focus to biomarkers for the ovarian reserve. Using serum analysis and ultrasound it is possible to measure anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and ovarian volume (OV) and to count numbers of antral follicles (AFC). These are compared, with ovarian volume being the closest to a true biomarker for a wide range of ages and with AMH and AFC being the most popular for post-pubertal and pre-menopausal ages. The study of genetic and subcellular biomarkers for the ovarian reserve has produced less concrete results. Recent advances are described and compared in terms of limitations and potential. The chapter concludes with an overview of the future study indicated by our current knowledge and by current controversy in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Kelsey
- School of Computer Science, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK.
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11
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Yoshihara M, Wagner M, Damdimopoulos A, Zhao C, Petropoulos S, Katayama S, Kere J, Lanner F, Damdimopoulou P. In Reply: Revisiting Claims of the Continued Absence of Functional Germline Stem Cells in Adult Ovaries. Stem Cells 2022; 41:205-206. [PMID: 36472571 PMCID: PMC9982065 DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxac084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Masahito Yoshihara
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Institute for Advanced Academic Research, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- Department of Artificial Intelligence Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Magdalena Wagner
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anastasios Damdimopoulos
- Bioinformatics and Expression Analysis core facility, Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cheng Zhao
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sophie Petropoulos
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Axe Immunopathologie, H2X 0A9 Montréal, Canada
- Département de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Shintaro Katayama
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Juha Kere
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
- Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Fredrik Lanner
- Corresponding authors: Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. Email ; or
| | - Pauliina Damdimopoulou
- Corresponding authors: Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. Email ; or
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12
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Woods DC, Tilly JL. Revisiting Claims of the Continued Absence of Functional Germline Stem Cells in Adult Ovaries. Stem Cells 2022; 41:200-204. [PMID: 36472569 PMCID: PMC9982064 DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxac083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dori C Woods
- Laboratory for Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jonathan L Tilly
- Corresponding author: Laboratory for Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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13
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Zhu Z, Xu W, Liu L. Ovarian aging: mechanisms and intervention strategies. MEDICAL REVIEW (BERLIN, GERMANY) 2022; 2:590-610. [PMID: 37724254 PMCID: PMC10471094 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2022-0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian reserve is essential for fertility and influences healthy aging in women. Advanced maternal age correlates with the progressive loss of both the quantity and quality of oocytes. The molecular mechanisms and various contributing factors underlying ovarian aging have been uncovered. In this review, we highlight some of critical factors that impact oocyte quantity and quality during aging. Germ cell and follicle reserve at birth determines reproductive lifespan and timing the menopause in female mammals. Accelerated diminishing ovarian reserve leads to premature ovarian aging or insufficiency. Poor oocyte quality with increasing age could result from chromosomal cohesion deterioration and misaligned chromosomes, telomere shortening, DNA damage and associated genetic mutations, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and epigenetic alteration. We also discuss the intervention strategies to delay ovarian aging. Both the efficacy of senotherapies by antioxidants against reproductive aging and mitochondrial therapy are discussed. Functional oocytes and ovarioids could be rejuvenated from pluripotent stem cells or somatic cells. We propose directions for future interventions. As couples increasingly begin delaying parenthood in life worldwide, understanding the molecular mechanisms during female reproductive aging and potential intervention strategies could benefit women in making earlier choices about their reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengmao Zhu
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Wanxue Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Union Medical Center, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
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14
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Tang S, Yang N, Yu M, Wang S, Hu X, Ni H, Cai W. Noninvasive autologous mitochondria transport improves the quality and developmental potential of oocytes from aged mice. F&S SCIENCE 2022; 3:310-321. [PMID: 35843541 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2022.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To establish an optimized autologous mitochondria transport technique for oocyte-aging rescue, which minimizes both the patient's pains and the damage to oocytes. DESIGN Experimental laboratory study. SETTING Laboratory. ANIMAL(S) Institute of Cancer Research mice. INTERVENTION(S) The murine umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells were isolated from the female pup and cryopreserved. After the female aged, its germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes were collected and treated to weaken the zona pellucida. Its autologous umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells were induced into granulosa cells (iGCs). The zona-weakened GV oocytes were aggregated with iGCs into iGC-oocyte complexes. Then, these complexes were cultured in growth-differentiation factor 9-containing media for 3 days. Next, they were subjected to in vitro maturation and fertilization. Presumptive zygotes were cultured for 24 hours, and the cleaved 2-cell embryos were selected for embryo transfer. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The oocyte quality was determined by examining mitochondrial ultrastructure using transmission electron microscopy, the adenosine triphosphate content using a luminometer, and intracellular reactive oxygen species levels by confocal microscopy. The spindle organization in mature oocytes was examined by confocal microscopy. The developmental potential of oocytes was evaluated by monitoring the in vitro embryo development and the birth rate after embryo transfer. RESULT(S) Mitochondria migrated from iGCs into the GV oocyte via transzonal filopodia. The maturation rate, quality, and developmental potential of these oocytes were substantially increased. Furthermore, the birth rate after embryo transfer has been improved. CONCLUSION(S) This approach used noninvasive procedures to collect mitochondria donor cells and optimized mitochondria transfer manipulations; thus, it may have potential in ameliorating oocyte-aging-related subfertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Tang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
| | - Nannan Yang
- Laboratory of Animal Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingxi Yu
- Laboratory of Animal Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuo Wang
- Instrumental Analysis and Test Center, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangdong Hu
- Laboratory of Animal Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Heliang Ni
- Laboratory of Animal Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenyang Cai
- Laboratory of Animal Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
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15
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Yoshihara M, Wagner M, Damdimopoulos A, Zhao C, Petropoulos S, Katayama S, Kere J, Lanner F, Damdimopoulou P. The Continued Absence of Functional Germline Stem Cells in Adult Ovaries. Stem Cells 2022; 41:105-110. [PMID: 36153824 PMCID: PMC9982068 DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxac070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Ovaries are central to development, fertility, and reproduction of women. A particularly interesting feature of ovaries is their accelerated aging compared to other tissues, leading to loss of function far before other organs senesce. The limited pool of ovarian follicles is generated before birth and once exhausted, menopause will inevitably commence around the age of 50 years marking the end of fertility. Yet, there are reports suggesting the presence of germline stem cells and neo-oogenesis in adult human ovaries. These observations have fueled a long debate, created experimental fertility treatments, and opened business opportunities. Our recent analysis of cell types in the ovarian cortex of women of fertile age could not find evidence of germline stem cells. Like before, our work has been met with critique suggesting methodological shortcomings. We agree that excellence starts with methods and welcome discussion on the pros and cons of different protocols. In this commentary, we discuss the recent re-interpretation of our work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahito Yoshihara
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden,Institute for Advanced Academic Research, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan,Department of Artificial Intelligence Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Magdalena Wagner
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anastasios Damdimopoulos
- Bioinformatics and Expression Analysis core facility, Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cheng Zhao
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sophie Petropoulos
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden,Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Axe Immunopathologie, Montréal, Canada,Département de Médecine, Université de Montréal, MontréalCanada
| | - Shintaro Katayama
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden,Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Juha Kere
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden,Folkhälsan Research Center, Helsinki, Finland,Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Unit, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Fredrik Lanner
- Corresponding author: Fredrik Lanner or Pauliina Damdimopoulou, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. Emails: ;
| | - Pauliina Damdimopoulou
- Corresponding author: Fredrik Lanner or Pauliina Damdimopoulou, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. Emails: ;
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16
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Frost ER, Ford EA, Peters AE, Lovell-Badge R, Taylor G, McLaughlin EA, Sutherland JM. A New Understanding, Guided by Single-Cell Sequencing, of the Establishment and Maintenance of the Ovarian Reserve in Mammals. Sex Dev 2022; 17:145-155. [PMID: 36122567 DOI: 10.1159/000526426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oocytes are a finite and non-renewable resource that are maintained in primordial follicle structures. The ovarian reserve is the totality of primordial follicles, present from birth, within the ovary and its establishment, size, and maintenance dictates the duration of the female reproductive lifespan. Understanding the cellular and molecular dynamics relevant to the establishment and maintenance of the reserve provides the first steps necessary for modulating both individual human and animal reproductive health as well as population dynamics. SUMMARY This review details the key stages of establishment and maintenance of the ovarian reserve, encompassing germ cell nest formation, germ cell nest breakdown, and primordial follicle formation and activation. Furthermore, we spotlight several formative single-cell sequencing studies that have significantly advanced our knowledge of novel molecular regulators of the ovarian reserve, which may improve our ability to modulate female reproductive lifespans. KEY MESSAGES The application of single-cell sequencing to studies of ovarian development in mammals, especially when leveraging genetic and environmental models, offers significant insights into fertility and its regulation. Moreover, comparative studies looking at key stages in the development of the ovarian reserve across species has the potential to impact not just human fertility, but also conservation biology, invasive species management, and agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R Frost
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Schools of Biomedical Science & Pharmacy and Environmental & Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
- Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emmalee A Ford
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Schools of Biomedical Science & Pharmacy and Environmental & Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alexandra E Peters
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Schools of Biomedical Science & Pharmacy and Environmental & Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robin Lovell-Badge
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Güneş Taylor
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Eileen A McLaughlin
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Schools of Biomedical Science & Pharmacy and Environmental & Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Science, Medicine & Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jessie M Sutherland
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Schools of Biomedical Science & Pharmacy and Environmental & Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
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17
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Stolzenbach V, Woods DC, Tilly JL. Non-neutral clonal selection and its potential role in mammalian germline stem cell dysfunction with advancing age. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:942652. [PMID: 36081905 PMCID: PMC9445274 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.942652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The concept of natural selection, or "survival of the fittest", refers to an evolutionary process in nature whereby traits emerge in individuals of a population through random gene alterations that enable those individuals to better adapt to changing environmental conditions. This genetic variance allows certain members of the population to gain an advantage over others in the same population to survive and reproduce in greater numbers under new environmental pressures, with the perpetuation of those advantageous traits in future progeny. Here we present that the behavior of adult stem cells in a tissue over time can, in many respects, be viewed in the same manner as evolution, with each stem cell clone being representative of an individual within a population. As stem cells divide or are subjected to cumulative oxidative damage over the lifespan of the organism, random genetic alterations are introduced into each clone that create variance in the population. These changes may occur in parallel to, or in response to, aging-associated changes in microenvironmental cues perceived by the stem cell population. While many of these alterations will be neutral or silent in terms of affecting cell function, a small fraction of these changes will enable certain clones to respond differently to shifts in microenvironmental conditions that arise with advancing age. In some cases, the same advantageous genetic changes that support survival and expansion of certain clones over others in the population (viz. non-neutral competition) could be detrimental to the downstream function of the differentiated stem cell descendants. In the context of the germline, such a situation would be devastating to successful propagation of the species across generations. However, even within a single generation, the “evolution” of stem cell lineages in the body over time can manifest into aging-related organ dysfunction and failure, as well as lead to chronic inflammation, hyperplasia, and cancer. Increased research efforts to evaluate stem cells within a population as individual entities will improve our understanding of how organisms age and how certain diseases develop, which in turn may open new opportunities for clinical detection and management of diverse pathologies.
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18
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Kankanam Gamage US, Hashimoto S, Miyamoto Y, Nakano T, Yamanaka M, Koike A, Satoh M, Morimoto Y. Mitochondria Transfer from Adipose Stem Cells Improves the Developmental Potential of Cryopreserved Oocytes. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12071008. [PMID: 35883564 PMCID: PMC9313289 DOI: 10.3390/biom12071008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Although it is not a well-established technology, oocyte cryopreservation is becoming prevalent in assisted reproductive technologies in response to the growing demands of patients’ sociological and pathological conditions. Oocyte cryopreservation can adversely affect the developmental potential of oocytes by causing an increase in intracellular oxidative stresses and damage to the mitochondrial structure. In this study, we studied whether autologous adipose stem cell (ASC) mitochondria supplementation with vitrified and warmed oocytes could restore post-fertilization development that decreased due to mitochondrial damage following cryopreservation. ASC mitochondria showed similar morphology to oocytes’ mitochondria and had a higher ATP production capacity. The vitrified-warmed oocytes from juvenile mice were supplemented with ASC mitochondria at the same time as intracellular sperm injection (ICSI), after which we compared their developmental capacity and the mitochondria quality of 2-cell embryos. We found that, compared to their counterpart, mitochondria supplementation significantly improved development from 2-cell embryos to blastocysts (56.8% vs. 38.2%) and ATP production in 2-cell embryos (905.6 & 561.1 pmol), while reactive oxygen species levels were comparable. With these results, we propose that ASC mitochondria supplementation could restore the quality of cryopreserved oocytes and enhance the embryo developmental capacity, signifying another possible approach for mitochondrial transplantation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udayanga Sanath Kankanam Gamage
- HORAC Grand Front Osaka Clinic, Osaka 530-0011, Japan; (Y.M.); (A.K.)
- Correspondence: (U.S.K.G.); (S.H.); (Y.M.); Tel.: +81-90-9823-8477 (U.S.K.G.); +81-6-6645-2121 (S.H.); +81-6-6377-8824 (Y.M.)
| | - Shu Hashimoto
- Reproductive Science Institute, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
- Correspondence: (U.S.K.G.); (S.H.); (Y.M.); Tel.: +81-90-9823-8477 (U.S.K.G.); +81-6-6645-2121 (S.H.); +81-6-6377-8824 (Y.M.)
| | - Yuki Miyamoto
- HORAC Grand Front Osaka Clinic, Osaka 530-0011, Japan; (Y.M.); (A.K.)
| | - Tatsuya Nakano
- IVF Namba Clinic, Osaka 550-0015, Japan; (T.N.); (M.Y.); (M.S.)
| | - Masaya Yamanaka
- IVF Namba Clinic, Osaka 550-0015, Japan; (T.N.); (M.Y.); (M.S.)
| | - Akiko Koike
- HORAC Grand Front Osaka Clinic, Osaka 530-0011, Japan; (Y.M.); (A.K.)
| | - Manabu Satoh
- IVF Namba Clinic, Osaka 550-0015, Japan; (T.N.); (M.Y.); (M.S.)
| | - Yoshiharu Morimoto
- HORAC Grand Front Osaka Clinic, Osaka 530-0011, Japan; (Y.M.); (A.K.)
- Correspondence: (U.S.K.G.); (S.H.); (Y.M.); Tel.: +81-90-9823-8477 (U.S.K.G.); +81-6-6645-2121 (S.H.); +81-6-6377-8824 (Y.M.)
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19
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Hong W, Wang B, Zhu Y, Wu J, Qiu L, Ling S, Zhou Z, Dai Y, Zhong Z, Zheng Y. Female germline stem cells: aging and anti-aging. J Ovarian Res 2022; 15:79. [PMID: 35787298 PMCID: PMC9251950 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-022-01011-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The delay of ovarian aging and the fertility preservation of cancer patients are the eternal themes in the field of reproductive medicine. Acting as the pacemaker of female physiological aging, ovary is also considered as the principle player of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, cerebrovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases and etc. However, its aging mechanism and preventive measures are still unclear. Some researchers attempt to activate endogenous ovarian female germline stem cells (FGSCs) to restore ovarian function, as the most promising approach. FGSCs are stem cells in the adult ovaries that can be infinitely self-renewing and have the potential of committed differention. This review aims to elucidate FGSCs aging mechanism from multiple perspectives such as niches, immune disorder, chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. Therefore, the rebuilding nichs of FGSCs, regulation of immune dysfunction, anti-inflammation and oxidative stress remission are expected to restore or replenish FGSCs, ultimately to delay ovarian aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenli Hong
- Reproductive Health Department, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, the Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China.,Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China
| | - Baofeng Wang
- ARTcenter, Shenzhen Hengsheng Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yasha Zhu
- Reproductive Health Department, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, the Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun'e Wu
- Reproductive Health Department, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, the Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Qiu
- Reproductive Health Department, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, the Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuyi Ling
- Reproductive Health Department, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, the Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziqiong Zhou
- Reproductive Health Department, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, the Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuqing Dai
- Reproductive Health Department, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, the Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhisheng Zhong
- Reproductive Health Department, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, the Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yuehui Zheng
- Reproductive Health Department, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, the Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China.
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20
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Alberico H, Fleischmann Z, Bobbitt T, Takai Y, Ishihara O, Seki H, Anderson RA, Telfer EE, Woods DC, Tilly JL. Workflow Optimization for Identification of Female Germline or Oogonial Stem Cells in Human Ovarian Cortex Using Single-Cell RNA Sequence Analysis. Stem Cells 2022; 40:523-536. [PMID: 35263439 PMCID: PMC9199849 DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxac015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In 2004, the identification of female germline or oogonial stem cells (OSCs) that can support post-natal oogenesis in ovaries of adult mice sparked a major paradigm shift in reproductive biology. Although these findings have been independently verified, and further extended to include identification of OSCs in adult ovaries of many species ranging from pigs and cows to non-human primates and humans, a recent study rooted in single-cell RNA sequence analysis (scRNA-seq) of adult human ovarian cortical tissue claimed that OSCs do not exist, and that other groups working with OSCs following isolation by magnetic-assisted or fluorescence-activated cell sorting have mistaken perivascular cells (PVCs) for germ cells. Here we report that rare germ lineage cells with a gene expression profile matched to OSCs but distinct from that of other cells, including oocytes and PVCs, can be identified in adult human ovarian cortical tissue by scRNA-seq after optimization of analytical workflow parameters. Deeper cell-by-cell expression profiling also uncovered evidence of germ cells undergoing meiosis-I in adult human ovaries. Lastly, we show that, if not properly controlled for, PVCs can be inadvertently isolated during flow cytometry protocols designed to sort OSCs because of inherently high cellular autofluorescence. However, human PVCs and human germ cells segregate into distinct clusters following scRNA-seq due to non-overlapping gene expression profiles, which would preclude the mistaken identification and use of PVCs as OSCs during functional characterization studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Alberico
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Zoë Fleischmann
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Tyler Bobbitt
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Yasushi Takai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, Saitama 350-0495, Japan
| | - Osamu Ishihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, Saitama 350-0495, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Seki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, Saitama 350-0495, Japan
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH14 1DJ, UK
| | - Evelyn E Telfer
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH14 1DJ, UK
| | - Dori C Woods
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jonathan L Tilly
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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21
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The Role of Mitochondria in Human Fertility and Early Embryo Development: What Can We Learn for Clinical Application of Assessing and Improving Mitochondrial DNA? Cells 2022; 11:cells11050797. [PMID: 35269419 PMCID: PMC8909547 DOI: 10.3390/cells11050797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are well known as ‘the powerhouses of the cell’. Indeed, their major role is cellular energy production driven by both mitochondrial and nuclear DNA. Such a feature makes these organelles essential for successful fertilisation and proper embryo implantation and development. Generally, mitochondrial DNA is exclusively maternally inherited; oocyte’s mitochondrial DNA level is crucial to provide sufficient ATP content for the developing embryo until the blastocyst stage of development. Additionally, human fertility and early embryogenesis may be affected by either point mutations or deletions in mitochondrial DNA. It was suggested that their accumulation may be associated with ovarian ageing. If so, is mitochondrial dysfunction the cause or consequence of ovarian ageing? Moreover, such an obvious relationship of mitochondria and mitochondrial genome with human fertility and early embryo development gives the field of mitochondrial research a great potential to be of use in clinical application. However, even now, the area of assessing and improving DNA quantity and function in reproductive medicine drives many questions and uncertainties. This review summarises the role of mitochondria and mitochondrial DNA in human reproduction and gives an insight into the utility of their clinical use.
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22
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Dong MH, Kim YY, Ku SY. Identification of Stem Cell-Like Cells in the Ovary. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2022; 19:675-685. [PMID: 35119648 PMCID: PMC9294092 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-021-00424-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the function of stem cells and cellular microenvironments in in vitro oogenesis, including ovarian folliculogenesis, is crucial for reproductive biology. Because mammalian females cannot generate oocytes after birth, the number of oocyte decreases with the progression of reproductive age. Meanwhile, there is an emerging need for the neogenesis of female germ cells to treat the increasing infertility-related issues in cancer survivors. The concept of oocytes neogenesis came from the promising results of stem cells in reproductive medicine. The stem cells that generate oocytes are defined as stem cell-like cells in the ovary (OSCs). Several recent studies have focused on the origin, isolation, and characteristic of OSCs and the differentiation of OSCs into oocytes, ovarian follicles and granulosa cells. Hence, in this review, we focus on the experimental trends in OSC research and discuss the methods of OSC isolation. We further summarized the characteristics of OSCs and discuss the markers used to identify OSCs differentiated from various cell sources. We believe that this review will be beneficial for advancing the research and clinical applications of OSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myung Hoon Dong
- grid.31501.360000 0004 0470 5905Department of Premedicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080 Korea
| | - Yoon Young Kim
- grid.412484.f0000 0001 0302 820XDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Korea ,grid.31501.360000 0004 0470 5905Institute of Reproductive Medicine and Population, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University, 71 Ihwajang-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080 Korea
| | - Seung-Yup Ku
- grid.412484.f0000 0001 0302 820XDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Korea ,grid.31501.360000 0004 0470 5905Institute of Reproductive Medicine and Population, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University, 71 Ihwajang-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080 Korea
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23
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Adhikari D, Lee IW, Yuen WS, Carroll J. Oocyte mitochondria – Key regulators of oocyte function and potential therapeutic targets for improving fertility. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:366-377. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
The development of oocytes and early embryos is dependent on mitochondrial ATP production. This reliance on mitochondrial activity, together with the exclusively maternal inheritance of mitochondria in development, places mitochondria as central regulators of both fertility and transgenerational inheritance mechanisms. Mitochondrial mass and mtDNA content massively increase during oocyte growth. They are highly dynamic organelles and oocyte maturation is accompanied by mitochondrial trafficking around subcellular compartments. Due to their key roles in generation of ATP and reactive oxygen species, oocyte mitochondrial defects have largely been linked with energy deficiency and oxidative stress. Pharmacological treatments and mitochondrial supplementation have been proposed to improve oocyte quality and fertility by enhancing ATP generation and reducing reactive oxygen species levels. More recently, the role of mitochondria-derived metabolites in controlling epigenetic modifiers has provided a mechanistic basis for mitochondria-nuclear crosstalk, allowing adaptation of gene expression to specific metabolic states. Here, we discuss the multi-faceted mechanisms by which mitochondrial function influence oocyte quality, as well as longer-term developmental events within and across generations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - In-won Lee
- Development and Stem Cell Program and Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Wai Shan Yuen
- Development and Stem Cell Program and Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - John Carroll
- Development and Stem Cell Program and Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3800, Australia
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24
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Wu M, Lu Z, Zhu Q, Ma L, Xue L, Li Y, Zhou S, Yan W, Ye W, Zhang J, Luo A, Wang S. DDX4 + stem cells in the ovaries of postmenopausal women: existence and differentiation potential. Stem Cells 2022; 40:88-101. [PMID: 35511860 DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxab002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Ovarian aging is a pacemaker with multiple organ dysfunction. Recently, stem cells with the ability to generate new oocytes have been identified, which provides the possibility of stem cell therapy for ovarian aging. Several studies have revealed the existence of stem cells in human postmenopausal ovary. In this study, we describe a new method using magnetic activated cell sorting combined with differential adhesion to isolate DDX4 + stem cells from ovaries of postmenopausal women and show that the cells exhibit similar gene expression profiles and growth characteristics with primitive germ cells. Furthermore, the DDX4 + stem cells could enter meiosis stage and differentiation into oocytes. The RNA-seq data of the differentiated oocytes shows that mitochondrial metabolism may play an important role in the oogenesis process of the DDX4 + stem cells. Through using human ovarian cortical fragments transplantation model, we indicated that the GFP-DDX4 + stem cells differentiated into some GFP positive oocyte-like structure in vivo. Our study provided a new method for the isolation of DDX4 + stem cells from the ovaries of postmenopausal women and confirmed the ability of these stem cells to differentiate into oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhiyong Lu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, TaiHe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Qingqing Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Lingwei Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Liru Xue
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Su Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Wei Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Wenlei Ye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jinjin Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Aiyue Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shixuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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25
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Abstract
Increased demand for in vitro fertilization (IVF) due to socio-demographic trends, and supply facilitated by new technologies, converged to transform the way a substantial proportion of humans reproduce. The purpose of this article is to describe the societal and demographic trends driving increased worldwide demand for IVF, as well as to provide an overview of emerging technologies that promise to greatly expand IVF utilization and lower its cost.
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26
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Xu PC, Luan Y, Yu SY, Xu J, Coulter DW, Kim SY. Effects of PD-1 blockade on ovarian follicles in a prepubertal female mouse. J Endocrinol 2021; 252:15-30. [PMID: 34647523 PMCID: PMC8630981 DOI: 10.1530/joe-21-0209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Immunotherapy has emerged at the forefront of cancer treatment. Checkpoint inhibitor pembrolizumab (KEYTRUDA), a chimeric antibody which targets programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1), has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in pediatric patients with relapsed or refractory classical Hodgkin's lymphoma. However, there is currently no published data regarding the effects of pembrolizumab on the ovary of female pediatric patients. In this study, prepubertal immunocompetent and immunodeficient female mice were injected with pembrolizumab or anti-mouse PD-1 antibody. The number of primordial follicles significantly decreased post-injection of both pembrolizumab and anti-mouse PD-1 antibody in immunocompetent mice. However, no changes in follicle numbers were observed in immunodeficient nude mice. Superovulation test and vaginal opening experiments suggest that there is no difference in the number of cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) and the timing of puberty onset between the control and anti-mouse PD-1 antibody treatment groups, indicating that there is no effect on short-term fertility. Elevation of pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α following COX-2 upregulation was observed in the ovary. CD3+ T-cell infiltration was detected within some ovarian follicles and between stromal cells of the ovaries in mice following treatment with anti-mouse PD-1 antibody. Thus, PD-1 immune checkpoint blockade affects the ovarian reserve through a mechanism possibly involving inflammation following CD3+ T-cell infiltration.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Animals, Newborn
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/adverse effects
- Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/pharmacology
- Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological/adverse effects
- Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological/pharmacology
- Cell Count
- Female
- Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors/adverse effects
- Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors/pharmacology
- Infertility, Female/chemically induced
- Infertility, Female/pathology
- Mice
- Mice, Nude
- Oocytes/cytology
- Oocytes/drug effects
- Ovarian Follicle/drug effects
- Ovarian Reserve/drug effects
- Ovary/drug effects
- Ovary/physiology
- Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor/antagonists & inhibitors
- Programmed Cell Death 1 Receptor/immunology
- Sexual Maturation/drug effects
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline C. Xu
- Olson Center for Women’s Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Yi Luan
- Olson Center for Women’s Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Seok-Yeong Yu
- Olson Center for Women’s Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Jing Xu
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, Oregon; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Donald W. Coulter
- Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - So-Youn Kim
- Olson Center for Women’s Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
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27
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Ebrahim N, Al Saihati HA, Shaman A, Dessouky AA, Farid AS, Hussien NI, Mostafa O, Seleem Y, Sabry D, Saad AS, Emam HT, Hassouna A, Badr OAM, Saffaf BA, Forsyth NR, Salim RF. Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells combined with gonadotropin therapy restore postnatal oogenesis of chemo-ablated ovaries in rats via enhancing very small embryonic-like stem cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:517. [PMID: 34579781 PMCID: PMC8477571 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02415-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) are a rare population within the ovarian epithelial surface. They contribute to postnatal oogenesis as they have the ability to generate immature oocytes and resist the chemotherapy. These cells express markers of pluripotent embryonic and primordial germ cells. OBJECTIVE We aimed to explore the capability of VSELs in restoring the postnatal oogenesis of chemo-ablated rat ovaries treated with bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) combined with pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG). METHODS Female albino rats were randomly assigned across five groups: I (control), II (chemo-ablation), III (chemo-ablation + PMSG), IV (chemo-ablation + MSCs), and V (chemo-ablation + PMSG + MSCs). Postnatal oogenesis was assessed through measurement of OCT4, OCT4A, Scp3, Mvh, Nobox, Dazl4, Nanog, Sca-1, FSHr, STRA8, Bax, miR143, and miR376a transcript levels using qRT-PCR. Expression of selected key proteins were established as further confirmation of transcript expression changes. Histopathological examination and ovarian hormonal assessment were determined. RESULTS Group V displayed significant upregulation of all measured genes when compared with group II, III or IV. Protein expression confirmed the changes in transcript levels as group V displayed the highest average density in all targeted proteins. These results were confirmed histologically by the presence of cuboidal germinal epithelium, numerous primordial, unilaminar, and mature Graafian follicles in group V. CONCLUSION VSELs can restore the postnatal oogenesis in chemo-ablated ovaries treated by BM-MSCs combined with PMSG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nesrine Ebrahim
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
- Stem Cell Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Hajir A Al Saihati
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Hafr Albatin, Al-Batin, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amani Shaman
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Medical College, Tabuk University, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arigue A Dessouky
- Department of Medical Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Ayman Samir Farid
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Noha I Hussien
- Department of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Ola Mostafa
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Yasmin Seleem
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Dina Sabry
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Badr University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed S Saad
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Hanan Tawfeek Emam
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Amira Hassouna
- School of Interprofessional Health Studies, Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, AUT University, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Omnia A M Badr
- Department of Genetics and Genetic Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Bayan A Saffaf
- Department of pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Future University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nicholas R Forsyth
- Guy Hilton Research Laboratories, School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Keele University, Keele, UK
| | - Rabab F Salim
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Qalyubia, 13512, Egypt.
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28
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Eshghifar N, Dehghan BK, Do AA, Koukhaloo SZ, Habibi M, Pouresmaeili F. Infertility cell therapy and epigenetic insights. Hum Antibodies 2021; 29:17-26. [PMID: 33554898 DOI: 10.3233/hab-200438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in assisted reproductive technology (ART) have allowed couples with severe infertility to conceive, but the methods are not effective for all cases. Stem cells as undifferentiated cells which are found in different stages of embryonic, fetal and adult life are known to be capable of forming different cell types, tissues, and organs. Due to their unlimited resources and the incredible power of differentiation are considered as potential new therapeutic biological tools for treatment of infertility. For reproductive medicine, stem cells are stimulated in vitro to develop various specialized functional cells including male and female gametes. The epigenetic patterns can be modified in the genome under certain drugs exposure or lifestyle alterations. Therefore, epigenetics-related disorders may be treated if the nature of the modifications is completely admissible. It is proved that our understanding of epigenetic processes and its association with infertility would help us not only to understand the etiological factors but also to treat some type of male infertilities. Exploration of both genetic and epigenetic variations in the disease development could help in the identification of the interaction patterns between these two phenomena and possible improvement of therapeutic methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nahal Eshghifar
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behnam Kamali Dehghan
- Department of Medical Genetics, National Institute of Medical Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Iran.,Medical Genetics, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Jiroft, Kerman, Iran.,Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Atieh Abedin Do
- Groupe de Recherche en Écologie Buccale, Faculté de Médecine Dentaire, Université Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Mohsen Habibi
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farkhondeh Pouresmaeili
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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29
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Stem Cells in Adult Mice Ovaries Form Germ Cell Nests, Undergo Meiosis, Neo-oogenesis and Follicle Assembly on Regular Basis During Estrus Cycle. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2021; 17:1695-1711. [PMID: 34455541 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-021-10237-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Very small embryonic-like (VSELs) and ovarian (OSCs) stem cells are located in adult mammalian ovary surface epithelium (OSE). OSCs can expand long-term and differentiate into oocyte-like structures in vitro and have resulted in birth of fertile pups. Lineage tracing studies have provided evidence to suggest OSCs differentiation into oocytes in vivo. But how these stem cells function under normal physiological conditions has not yet been well worked out. Besides studying STRA-8 and SCP-3 expression in enzymatically isolated OSE cells smears, mice were injected BrdU to track mitosis, meiosis and follicle assembly. H&E stained OSE cells during late diestrus and proestrus showed VSELs undergoing asymmetrical cell divisions to give rise to slightly bigger OSCs which in turn underwent symmetrical cell divisions followed by clonal expansion (rapid expansion with incomplete cytokinesis) during early estrus to form germ cell nests (GCN). OCT-4, SSEA-1, MVH and DAZL positive cells in GCN expressed Erα, Erβ and FSHR, were interconnected by ring canals (TEX-14), showed mitochondrial aggregation (Cytochrome C) and Balbiani Body (TRAL). Apoptosis in 'nurse' cells was marked by PARP and putative oocytes were clearly visualized. BrdU was detected in cells undergoing mitosis/meiosis and also in an oocyte of secondary follicle. FACS sorted, green fluorescent protein (GFP) positive VSELs upon transplantation resulted in GFP positive GCN suggesting crucial role for VSELs in adult ovaries. Results suggest that various events described during oogenesis and follicle assembly in fetal ovaries are recapitulated on regular basis in adult ovary and result in the formation of follicles.
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MacDonald JA, Woods DC, Tilly JL. Biomechanical Strain Promotes the Differentiation of Murine Oogonial Stem Cells. Stem Cells Dev 2021; 30:749-757. [PMID: 34036812 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2021.0086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cells within tissues are routinely subjected to physiological stress and strain, arising from direct interactions with neighboring cells as well as with extracellular matrix components. Accordingly, there is tremendous interest in deciphering how cells sense, and respond to, changes in biomechanical forces. In this study, we explored the effects of mechanostimulation on the differentiation of mouse female germline or oogonial stem cells (OSCs) as a model for adult stem cell function. We report that increasing levels, or repeated application of a subthreshold fixed level, of radial strain to OSCs in culture significantly increased rates of in vitro oocyte formation as a measure of stem cell differentiation. These responses involved changes in F-actin-mediated cytoskeletal tension as well as in activation of intracellular signaling by Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) and Yes-associated protein (YAP) phosphorylation. In addition, application of mechanical strain to OSCs enhanced association of YAP with muscle-specific cytidine-adenosine-thymidine (MCAT) response elements in the promoter stimulated by retinoic acid gene 8 (Stra8), the transcriptional activation of which is required for germline meiotic commitment. These data indicate that biomechanical strain directly promotes the differentiation of adult female germline stem cells through a signaling pathway involving F-actin, ROCK, YAP, and Stra8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A MacDonald
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dori C Woods
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jonathan L Tilly
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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31
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Frost ER, Ford EA, Taylor G, Boeing S, Beckett EL, Roman SD, Lovell-Badge R, McLaughlin EA, Sutherland JM. Two alternative methods for the retrieval of somatic cell populations from the mouse ovary. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:6273354. [PMID: 33973015 PMCID: PMC8211868 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaab033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Many modern techniques employed to uncover the molecular fundamentals underlying biological processes require dissociated cells as their starting point/substrate. Investigations into ovarian endocrinology or folliculogenesis, therefore, necessitate robust protocols for dissociating the ovary into its constituent cell populations. While in the mouse, methods to obtain individual, mature follicles are well-established, the separation and isolation of single cells of all types from early mouse follicles, including somatic cells, has been more challenging. Herein we present two methods for the isolation of somatic cells in the ovary. These methods are suitable for a range of applications relating to the study of folliculogenesis and mouse ovarian development. First, an enzymatic dissociation utilising collagenase and a temporary, primary cell culture step using neonatal mouse ovaries which yields large quantities of granulosa cells from primordial, activating, and primary follicles. Second, a rapid papain dissociation resulting in a high viability single cell suspension of ovarian somatic cells in less than an hour, which can be applied from embryonic to adult ovarian samples. Collectively these protocols can be applied to a broad array of investigations with unique advantages and benefits pertaining to both.
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Affiliation(s)
- E R Frost
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Schools of Biomedical Science & Pharmacy and Environmental & Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia.,Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics Lab, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - E A Ford
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Schools of Biomedical Science & Pharmacy and Environmental & Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - G Taylor
- Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics Lab, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - S Boeing
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics Facility, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK.,Scientific Computing-Digital Development Team, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - E L Beckett
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia.,School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - S D Roman
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Schools of Biomedical Science & Pharmacy and Environmental & Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Drug Development, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - R Lovell-Badge
- Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics Lab, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - E A McLaughlin
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Schools of Biomedical Science & Pharmacy and Environmental & Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,School of Science, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia.,School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - J M Sutherland
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Schools of Biomedical Science & Pharmacy and Environmental & Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
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32
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Frost ER, Taylor G, Baker MA, Lovell-Badge R, Sutherland JM. Establishing and maintaining fertility: the importance of cell cycle arrest. Genes Dev 2021; 35:619-634. [PMID: 33888561 PMCID: PMC8091977 DOI: 10.1101/gad.348151.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In this review, Frost et al. summarize the current knowledge on the Cip/Kip family of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors in mouse gonad development and highlight new roles for cell cycle inhibitors in controlling and maintaining female fertility. Development of the ovary or testis is required to establish reproductive competence. Gonad development relies on key cell fate decisions that occur early in embryonic development and are actively maintained. During gonad development, both germ cells and somatic cells proliferate extensively, a process facilitated by cell cycle regulation. This review focuses on the Cip/Kip family of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors (CKIs) in mouse gonad development. We particularly highlight recent single-cell RNA sequencing studies that show the heterogeneity of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors. This diversity highlights new roles for cell cycle inhibitors in controlling and maintaining female fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R Frost
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Biomedical Science and Pharmacy, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales 2305, Australia.,Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, United Kingdom
| | - Güneş Taylor
- Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, United Kingdom
| | - Mark A Baker
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Biomedical Science and Pharmacy, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales 2305, Australia
| | - Robin Lovell-Badge
- Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, United Kingdom
| | - Jessie M Sutherland
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Biomedical Science and Pharmacy, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales 2305, Australia
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33
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Ge W, Wang JJ, Zhang RQ, Tan SJ, Zhang FL, Liu WX, Li L, Sun XF, Cheng SF, Dyce PW, De Felici M, Shen W. Dissecting the initiation of female meiosis in the mouse at single-cell resolution. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:695-713. [PMID: 32367190 PMCID: PMC11072979 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03533-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Revised: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Meiosis is one of the most finely orchestrated events during gametogenesis with distinct developmental patterns in males and females. However, the molecular mechanisms involved in this process remain not well known. Here, we report detailed transcriptome analyses of cell populations present in the mouse female gonadal ridges (E11.5) and the embryonic ovaries from E12.5 to E14.5 using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA seq). These periods correspond with the initiation and progression of meiosis throughout the first stage of prophase I. We identified 13 transcriptionally distinct cell populations and 7 transcriptionally distinct germ cell subclusters that correspond to mitotic (3 clusters) and meiotic (4 clusters) germ cells. By analysing cluster-specific gene expression profiles, we found four cell clusters correspond to different cell stages en route to meiosis and characterized their detailed transcriptome dynamics. Our scRNA seq analysis here represents a new important resource for deciphering the molecular pathways driving female meiosis initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Ge
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Jun-Jie Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Rui-Qian Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Shao-Jing Tan
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Fa-Li Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Wen-Xiang Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Lan Li
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Sun
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Shun-Feng Cheng
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Paul W Dyce
- Department of Animal Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Massimo De Felici
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Wei Shen
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China.
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34
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Moghadam AR, Taheri Moghadam M, Saki G, Nikbakht R. Utilizing Calcium Alginate for the Assessment of Bone Morphogenetic Protein 15 Induction Effect on the Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Derived from Human Follicular Fluid to Oocyte-Like Structure. Adv Biomed Res 2020; 9:80. [PMID: 33912496 PMCID: PMC8059453 DOI: 10.4103/abr.abr_200_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Follicular fluid (FF)-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are possible new source of cells in the study of oogenesis and regenerative medicine. Several biomaterials have been used as scaffolds to mimic ovarian tissue stroma. Using good matrix is essential for increasing the cell survival rate, proliferation, and differentiation. However, no study has been performed to investigate the effects of BMP15 and calcium alginate hydrogel on the differentiation potential of FF-derived MSCs to oocyte-like structures (OLSs). Materials and Methods: In this work, FF MSCs, which were collected from women in routine in vitro fertilization procedure, were capsulated with 0.5% calcium alginate, and then the encapsulated cells were cultured in medium containing BMP15 for 2 weeks. Trypan blue staining was carried out to determine cell viability. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunofluorescence (ICC) staining method were performed to characterize the expression of OCT4, Nanog, ZP2, and ZP3 genes and protein. The encapsulation process did not change the morphology and viability of the encapsulated cells. Results: Reverse-transcription-PCR and ICC showed that MSCs expressed germ line stem cell markers such as OCT4 and Nanog. After 4 days of culture, OLSs formed and expressed zona pellucida markers. OLSs at least reached 180–230 μm in diameter in the control and BMP15-treated groups. Finally, a reduction in the expression pattern of pluripotency and ZP markers was detected in the encapsulated cells cultured in the BMP15-supplemented medium. Conclusion: The three-dimensional alginate culture system seems to be a promising method of getting in vitro differentiation and development of ovarian cells, which could mimic the native ovarian condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Reza Moghadam
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mahin Taheri Moghadam
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Ghasem Saki
- Department of Anatomical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Roshan Nikbakht
- Fertility, Infertility and Perinatology Center, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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35
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Li L, Yang R, Yin C, Kee K. Studying human reproductive biology through single-cell analysis and in vitro differentiation of stem cells into germ cell-like cells. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:670-688. [PMID: 32464645 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of human reproductive development has been limited by the scarcity of human samples and ethical constraints. Recently, in vitro differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells into germ cells and single-cell analyses have opened new avenues to directly study human germ cells and identify unique mechanisms in human reproductive development. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The goal of this review is to collate novel findings and insightful discoveries with these new methodologies, aiming at introducing researchers and clinicians to the use of these tools to study human reproductive biology and develop treatments for infertility. SEARCH METHODS PubMed was used to search articles and reviews with the following main keywords: in vitro differentiation, human stem cells, single-cell analysis, spermatogenesis, oogenesis, germ cells and other key terms related to these subjects. The search period included all publications from 2000 until now. OUTCOMES Single-cell analyses of human gonads have identified many important gene markers at different developmental stages and in subpopulations of cells. To validate the functional roles of these gene markers, researchers have used the in vitro differentiation of human pluripotent cells into germ cells and confirmed that some genetic requirements are unique in human germ cells and are not conserved in mouse models. Moreover, transcriptional regulatory networks and the interaction of germ and somatic cells in gonads were elucidated in these studies. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Single-cell analyses allow researchers to identify gene markers and potential regulatory networks using limited clinical samples. On the other hand, in vitro differentiation methods provide clinical researchers with tools to examine these newly identify gene markers and study the causative effects of mutations previously associated with infertility. Combining these two methodologies, researchers can identify gene markers and networks which are essential and unique in human reproductive development, thereby producing more accurate diagnostic tools for assessing reproductive disorders and developing treatments for infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Li
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Chaoyang, Beijing 100026, China
| | - Risako Yang
- Department of Biology, Colgate University, Hamilton, NY 13346, USA
| | - Chenghong Yin
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Chaoyang, Beijing 100026, China
| | - Kehkooi Kee
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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36
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Taheri M, Saki G, Nikbakht R, Eftekhari AR. Bone morphogenetic protein 15 induces differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells derived from human follicular fluid to oocyte-like cell. Cell Biol Int 2020; 45:127-139. [PMID: 32997425 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Follicular fluid (FF) is essential for developing ovarian follicles. Besides the oocytes, FF has abundant undifferentiated somatic cells containing stem cell properties, which are discarded in daily medical procedures. Earlier studies have shown that FF cells could differentiate into primordial germ cells via forming embryoid bodies, which produced oocyte-like cells (OLC). This study aimed at isolating mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) from FF and evaluating the impacts of bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) on the differentiation of these cells into OLCs. Human FF-derived cells were collected from 78 women in the assisted fertilization program and cultured in human recombinant BMP15 medium for 21 days. Real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunocytochemistry staining characterized MSCs and OLCs. MSCs expressed germline stem cell (GSC) markers, such as OCT4 and Nanog. In the control group, after 15 days, OLCs were formed and expressed zona pellucida markers (ZP2 and ZP3), and reached 20-30 µm in diameter. Ten days after induction with BMP15, round cells developed, and the size of OLCs reached 115 µm. A decrease ranged from 0.04 to 4.5 in the expression of pluripotency and oocyte-specific markers observed in the cells cultured in a BMP15-supplemented medium. FF-derived MSCs have an innate potency to differentiate into OLCs, and BMP15 is effective in promoting the differentiation of these cells, which may give an in vitro model to examine germ cell development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahin Taheri
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.,Fertility, Infertility and Perinatology Center, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Ghasem Saki
- Department of Anatomical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Roshan Nikbakht
- Fertility, Infertility and Perinatology Center, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Ali R Eftekhari
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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37
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DEAD-Box Helicase 4 (Ddx4) + Stem Cells Sustain Tumor Progression in Non-Serous Ovarian Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176096. [PMID: 32847044 PMCID: PMC7503840 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
DEAD-Box Helicase 4 (Ddx4)+ ovarian stem cells are able to differentiate into several cell types under appropriate stimuli. Ddx4 expression has been correlated with poor prognosis of serous ovarian cancer (OC), while the potential role of Ddx4+ cells in non-serous epithelial OC (NS-EOC) is almost unexplored. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the presence of Ddx4+ cells in NS-EOC and investigate the effect of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) on this population. Increased Ddx4 expression was demonstrated in samples from patients with advanced NS-EOC, compared to those with early-stage disease. Under FSH stimulation, OC-derived Ddx4+ cells differentiated into mesenchymal-like (ML) cells, able to deregulate genes involved in cell migration, invasiveness, stemness and chemoresistance in A2780 OC cells. This effect was primarily induced by ML-cells deriving from advanced NS-EOC, suggesting that a tumor-conditioned germ cell niche inhabits its microenvironment and is able to modulate, in a paracrine manner, tumor cell behavior through transcriptome modulation.
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38
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Tilly JL, Woods DC. The obligate need for accuracy in reporting preclinical studies relevant to clinical trials: autologous germline mitochondrial supplementation for assisted human reproduction as a case study. Ther Adv Reprod Health 2020; 14:2633494120917350. [PMID: 32518919 PMCID: PMC7254586 DOI: 10.1177/2633494120917350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
A now large body of work has solidified the central role that mitochondria play in oocyte development, fertilization, and embryogenesis. From these studies, a new technology termed autologous germline mitochondrial energy transfer was developed for improving pregnancy success rates in assisted reproduction. Unlike prior clinical studies that relied on the use of donor, or nonautologous, mitochondria for microinjection into eggs of women with a history of repeated in vitro fertilization failure to enhance pregnancy success, autologous germline mitochondrial energy transfer uses autologous mitochondria collected from oogonial stem cells of the same woman undergoing the fertility treatment. Initial trials of autologous germline mitochondrial energy transfer during - in vitro fertilization at three different sites with a total of 104 patients indicated a benefit of the procedure for improving pregnancy success rates, with the birth of children conceived through the inclusion of autologous germline mitochondrial energy transfer during in vitro fertilization. However, a fourth clinical study, consisting of 57 patients, failed to show a benefit of autologous germline mitochondrial energy transfer-in vitro fertilization versus in vitro fertilization alone for improving cumulative live birth rates. Complicating this area of work further, a recent mouse study, which claimed to test the long-term safety of autologous mitochondrial supplementation during in vitro fertilization, raised concerns over the use of the procedure for reproduction. However, autologous mitochondria were not actually used for preclinical testing in this mouse study. The unwarranted fears that this new study's erroneous conclusions could cause in women who have become pregnant through the use of autologous germline mitochondrial energy transfer during-in vitro fertilization highlight the critical need for accurate reporting of preclinical work that has immediate bearing on human clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan L Tilly
- Laboratory for Aging and Infertility Research (LAIR), Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Dori C Woods
- Laboratory for Aging and Infertility Research (LAIR), Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
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39
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Satirapod C, Wang N, MacDonald JA, Sun M, Woods DC, Tilly JL. Estrogen regulation of germline stem cell differentiation as a mechanism contributing to female reproductive aging. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:7313-7333. [PMID: 32302290 PMCID: PMC7202493 DOI: 10.18632/aging.103080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Progressive loss of ovarian estrogen (E2) production is a hallmark feature of, if not a driving force behind, reproductive aging and the menopause. Recent genetic studies in mice have shown that female germline or oogonial stem cells (OSCs) contribute to maintenance of adult ovarian function and fertility under physiological conditions through support of de-novo oogenesis. Here we show that mouse OSCs express E2 receptor-α (ERα). In the presence of E2, ERα interacts with the stimulated by retinoic acid gene 8 (Stra8) promoter to drive Stra8 expression followed by oogenesis. Treatment of mice with E2 in vivo increases Stra8 expression and oogenesis, and these effects are nullified by ERα (Esr1), but not ERβ (Esr2), gene disruption. Although mice lacking ERα are born with a normal quota of oocytes, ERα-deficient females develop premature ovarian insufficiency in adulthood due to impaired oogenesis. Lastly, mice treated with reversible ER antagonists show a loss of Stra8 expression and oocyte numbers; however, both endpoints rebound to control levels after ceasing drug treatment. These findings establish a key physiological role for E2-ERα signaling in promoting OSC differentiation as a potential mechanism to maintain adequate numbers of ovarian follicles during reproductive life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chonthicha Satirapod
- Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ning Wang
- Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Current address: Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Julie A. MacDonald
- Department of Biology, Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Current address: Department of Medical Oncology Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Minghan Sun
- Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Dori C. Woods
- Department of Biology, Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jonathan L. Tilly
- Department of Biology, Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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40
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Bhartiya D, Sharma D. Ovary does harbor stem cells - size of the cells matter! J Ovarian Res 2020; 13:39. [PMID: 32303227 PMCID: PMC7164193 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-020-00647-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A recent study published in the journal Nature Communications from Karolinska Institute, Sweden was unable to detect stem cells in adult human ovarian cortex by single-cell RNAseq and by studying cell surface antigen profiles by flow cytometry studies. Their findings are startling since stem cells have been well characterized in the adult mammalian ovary of several species including mouse, rabbit, monkey, sheep, pig and humans. Ovarian stem cells include pluripotent, very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) and slightly bigger ovarian stem cells (OSCs) which are easily visualized in smears obtained by gently scraping the ovary surface. The potential of ovarian stem cells to differentiate into oocyte-like structures in vitro and also resulting in the birth of mouse pups has been reported. A possible role of ovarian VSELs in initiation of ovarian cancers has also been delineated. The ovarian stem cells can also be collected by enzymatic digestion of ovarian tissue for various studies, taking care to always pellet the cells suspension at 1000 g since this high speed is required to collect the small-sized stem cell populations (VSELs & OSCs) with high nucleo-cytoplasmic ratio. These stem cells invariably get discarded when cells suspension is spun at lower speed. The cells were spun at 300 g for various experiments in the Karolinska study and this is the underlying reason for their negative results. Stem cells were inadvertently and unknowingly discarded and never got analyzed by single-cell RNAseq and flow cytometry experiments. To conclude, stem cells surely exist in adult mammalian ovary and their role during neo-oogenesis and primordial follicle assembly under physiological conditions is currently being investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India.
| | - Diksha Sharma
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India
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Wagner M, Yoshihara M, Douagi I, Damdimopoulos A, Panula S, Petropoulos S, Lu H, Pettersson K, Palm K, Katayama S, Hovatta O, Kere J, Lanner F, Damdimopoulou P. Single-cell analysis of human ovarian cortex identifies distinct cell populations but no oogonial stem cells. Nat Commun 2020; 11:1147. [PMID: 32123174 PMCID: PMC7052271 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-14936-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The human ovary orchestrates sex hormone production and undergoes monthly structural changes to release mature oocytes. The outer lining of the ovary (cortex) has a key role in defining fertility in women as it harbors the ovarian reserve. It has been postulated that putative oogonial stem cells exist in the ovarian cortex and that these can be captured by DDX4 antibody isolation. Here, we report single-cell transcriptomes and cell surface antigen profiles of over 24,000 cells from high quality ovarian cortex samples from 21 patients. Our data identify transcriptional profiles of six main cell types; oocytes, granulosa cells, immune cells, endothelial cells, perivascular cells, and stromal cells. Cells captured by DDX4 antibody are perivascular cells, not oogonial stem cells. Our data do not support the existence of germline stem cells in adult human ovaries, thereby reinforcing the dogma of a limited ovarian reserve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Wagner
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Masahito Yoshihara
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Iyadh Douagi
- Center of Hematology and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Flow Cytometry Section, Research Technologies Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | - Sarita Panula
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sophie Petropoulos
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Medicine, Centre de recherche du CHUM, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Haojiang Lu
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karin Pettersson
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kerstin Palm
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Visby hospital, Visby, Sweden
| | - Shintaro Katayama
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Outi Hovatta
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Juha Kere
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Folkhälsan Research Institute, Helsinki, and Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Fredrik Lanner
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. .,Ming Wai Lau Center for Reparative Medicine, Stockholm node, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Pauliina Damdimopoulou
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
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42
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Silvestris E, D’Oronzo S, Cafforio P, Kardhashi A, Dellino M, Cormio G. In Vitro Generation of Oocytes from Ovarian Stem Cells (OSCs): In Search of Major Evidence. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20246225. [PMID: 31835581 PMCID: PMC6940822 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20246225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The existence of ovarian stem cells (OSCs) in women as well as their physiological role in post-menopausal age are disputed. However, accumulating evidence demonstrated that, besides the animal models including primarily mice, even in adult women putative OSCs obtained from ovarian cortex are capable to differentiate in vitro into oocyte-like cells (OLCs) expressing molecular markers typical of terminal stage of oogonial cell lineage. Recent studies describe that, similarly to mature oocytes, the OSC-derived OLCs also contain haploid karyotype. As proof of concept of their stem commitment, OSCs from mice differentiated to oocytes in vitro are suitable to be fertilized and implanted in sterilized animals resulting in embryo development. Despite enthusiasm for these data, which definitely require extended confirmation before considering potential application in humans for treatment of ovarian insufficiency, OSCs appear suitable for other clinical uses, restoring the endocrine derangements in premature ovarian failure or for fertility preservation in oncologic patients after anti-cancer treatments. In this context, the selection of viable oocytes generated from OSCs before chemotherapy protocols would overcome the potential adjunct oncogenic risk in women bearing hormone-dependent tumors who are repeatedly stimulated with high dose estrogens to induce oocyte maturation for their egg recruitment and cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Silvestris
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, National Cancer Center, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.K.); (M.D.); (G.C.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Stella D’Oronzo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Section of Internal Medicine and Clinical Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy; (S.D.); (P.C.)
- National Cancer Center, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Paola Cafforio
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Section of Internal Medicine and Clinical Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy; (S.D.); (P.C.)
| | - Anila Kardhashi
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, National Cancer Center, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.K.); (M.D.); (G.C.)
| | - Miriam Dellino
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, National Cancer Center, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.K.); (M.D.); (G.C.)
| | - Gennaro Cormio
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, National Cancer Center, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.K.); (M.D.); (G.C.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
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43
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Mariniello K, Ruiz-Babot G, McGaugh EC, Nicholson JG, Gualtieri A, Gaston-Massuet C, Nostro MC, Guasti L. Stem Cells, Self-Renewal, and Lineage Commitment in the Endocrine System. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:772. [PMID: 31781041 PMCID: PMC6856655 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocrine system coordinates a wide array of body functions mainly through secretion of hormones and their actions on target tissues. Over the last decades, a collective effort between developmental biologists, geneticists, and stem cell biologists has generated a wealth of knowledge related to the contribution of stem/progenitor cells to both organogenesis and self-renewal of endocrine organs. This review provides an up-to-date and comprehensive overview of the role of tissue stem cells in the development and self-renewal of endocrine organs. Pathways governing crucial steps in both development and stemness maintenance, and that are known to be frequently altered in a wide array of endocrine disorders, including cancer, are also described. Crucially, this plethora of information is being channeled into the development of potential new cell-based treatment modalities for endocrine-related illnesses, some of which have made it through clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katia Mariniello
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gerard Ruiz-Babot
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Emily C. McGaugh
- McEwen Stem Cell Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - James G. Nicholson
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Angelica Gualtieri
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Carles Gaston-Massuet
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Cristina Nostro
- McEwen Stem Cell Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Leonardo Guasti
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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44
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When few survive to tell the tale: thymus and gonad as auditioning organs: historical overview. Theory Biosci 2019; 139:95-104. [PMID: 31628582 DOI: 10.1007/s12064-019-00306-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Unlike other organs, the thymus and gonads generate nonuniform cell populations, many members of which perish, and a few survive. While it is recognized that thymic cells are "audited" to optimize an organism's immune repertoire, whether gametogenesis could be orchestrated similarly to favor high-quality gametes is uncertain. Ideally, such quality would be affirmed at early stages before the commitment of extensive parental resources. A case is here made that, along the lines of a previously proposed lymphocyte quality control mechanism, gamete quality can be registered indirectly through detection of incompatibilities between proteins encoded by the grandparental DNA sequences within the parent from which haploid gametes are meiotically derived. This "stress test" is achieved in the same way that thymic screening for potential immunological incompatibilities is achieved-by "promiscuous" expression, under the influence of the AIRE protein, of the products of genes that are not normally specific for that organ. Consistent with this, the Aire gene is expressed in both thymus and gonads, and AIRE deficiency impedes function in both organs. While not excluding the subsequent emergence of hybrid incompatibilities due to the intermixing of genomic sequences from parents (rather than grandparents), many observations, such as the number of proteins that are aberrantly expressed during gametogenesis, can be explained on this basis. Indeed, promiscuous expression could have first evolved in gamete-forming cells where incompatible proteins would be manifest as aberrant protein aggregates that cause apoptosis. This mechanism would later have been co-opted by thymic epithelial cells which display peptides from aggregates to remove potentially autoreactive T cells.
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45
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Nguyen HH, Nhu BLQ, Uyen NNP, Nguyen VT, Bui HT. Isolation of female germline stem cells from porcine ovarian tissue and differentiation into oocyte-like cells. J Reprod Dev 2019; 65:423-432. [PMID: 31378755 PMCID: PMC6815736 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2019-050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Historically, it had been widely accepted that the female mammalian ovary contained a limited number of oocytes that would reduce over time, without the possibility of replenishment.
However, recent studies have suggested that female germline stem cells (FGSCs) could replenish the oocyte-pool in adults. The aim of this study was to isolate FGSCs from porcine ovaries and
differentiate them into oocyte-like cells (OLCs). The FGSCs were successfully isolated from porcine ovarian tissue and cultured in vitro, in DMEM/F-12 medium supplemented
with growth factors (EGF, FGF, GDNF, etc.) and a supplement (N21). These cells possessed spherical morphology and expressed specific germline characteristics (Vasa, Stella, Oct4, c-kit). By
evaluating different conditions for in vitro differentiation of FGSCs, co-culturing the isolated FGSCs with MEF cells, under three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures, were shown
to be optimal. FGSCs could successfully be differentiated into OLCs and reached about 70 µm in diameter, with a large number of surrounding somatic cells. Importantly, OLCs contained large
nuclei, about 25–30 µm, with filamentous chromatin, similar to oocyte morphology, and expressed oocyte-specific markers (Gdf9, Zp2, SCP3, etc.) at the same level as oocytes. In conclusion,
we successfully isolated FGSCs from porcine ovarian tissue and differentiated them into oocyte-like cells. This will provide a valuable model for studying a new, alternative source of
oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huy-Hoang Nguyen
- Cellular Reprogramming Laboratory, School of Biotechnology, International University, Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
| | - Bui Le Quynh Nhu
- Cellular Reprogramming Laboratory, School of Biotechnology, International University, Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Nhat Phuong Uyen
- Cellular Reprogramming Laboratory, School of Biotechnology, International University, Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
| | - Van-Thuan Nguyen
- Cellular Reprogramming Laboratory, School of Biotechnology, International University, Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
| | - Hong-Thuy Bui
- Cellular Reprogramming Laboratory, School of Biotechnology, International University, Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam
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46
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Akahori T, Woods DC, Tilly JL. Female Fertility Preservation through Stem Cell-based Ovarian Tissue Reconstitution In Vitro and Ovarian Regeneration In Vivo. CLINICAL MEDICINE INSIGHTS. REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2019; 13:1179558119848007. [PMID: 31191070 PMCID: PMC6540489 DOI: 10.1177/1179558119848007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Historically, approaches designed to offer women diagnosed with cancer the prospects of having a genetically matched child after completion of their cytotoxic treatments focused on the existing oocyte population as the sole resource available for clinical management of infertility. In this regard, elective oocyte and embryo cryopreservation, as well as autologous ovarian cortical tissue grafting posttreatment, have gained widespread support as options for young girls and reproductive-age women who are faced with cancer to consider. In addition, the use of ovarian protective therapies, including gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists and sphingosine-1-phosphate analogs, has been put forth as an alternative way to preserve fertility by shielding existing oocytes in the ovaries in vivo from the side-effect damage caused by radiotherapy and many chemotherapeutic regimens. This viewpoint changed with the publication of now numerous reports that adult ovaries of many mammalian species, including humans, contain a rare population of oocyte-producing germ cells-referred to as female germline or oogonial stem cells (OSCs). This new line of study has fueled research into the prospects of generating new oocytes, rather than working with existing oocytes, as a novel approach to sustain or restore fertility in female cancer survivors. Here, we overview the history of work from laboratories around the world focused on improving our understanding of the biology of OSCs and how these cells may be used to reconstitute "artificial" ovarian tissue in vitro or to regenerate damaged ovarian tissue in vivo as future fertility-preservation options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taichi Akahori
- Laboratory for Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA.,On leave from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Dori C Woods
- Laboratory for Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jonathan L Tilly
- Laboratory for Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
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47
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Virant-Klun I. Functional Testing of Primitive Oocyte-like Cells Developed in Ovarian Surface Epithelium Cell Culture from Small VSEL-like Stem Cells: Can They Be Fertilized One Day? Stem Cell Rev Rep 2019; 14:715-721. [PMID: 29876729 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-018-9832-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Data from the literature show that there are different populations of stem cells present in human adult ovaries, including small stem cells resembling very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs). These small ovarian stem cells with diameters of up to 5 μm are present in the ovarian surface epithelium and can grow into bigger, primitive oocyte-like cells that express several markers of a germinal lineage and exhibit pluripotency but not the zona pellucida structure when cultured in vitro. In this report, we present the results of the functional testing of such primitive oocyte-like cells from one patient with premature ovarian failure after insemination with her partners' sperm. Knowing that even immature oocytes collected in an in vitro fertilization program cannot be fertilized naturally, we were only interested in determining whether and how these cells react to added sperm and whether spermatozoa somehow "recognize" them. Interestingly, the primitive oocyte-like cells quickly released a zona pellucida-like structure in the presence of sperm. Two different populations of cells were distinguished, those with a thick and those with a thin zona pellucida-like structure. The primitive oocyte-like cells with a released zona pellucida-like structure expressed the pluripotency-related gene OCT4A (POU5F1) and zona pellucida-related gene ZP3, similar to oocytes obtained from in vitro fertilization but not somatic chondrocytes. In a small proportion of these cells, a single-spermatozoon was observed inside the cytoplasm, but no signs of fertilization were found. These observations may suggest a primitive "cortical reaction". Our data further confirm the presence of germinal stem cells in the ovarian surface epithelium cell culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irma Virant-Klun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Slajmerjeva 3, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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48
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MacDonald JA, Takai Y, Ishihara O, Seki H, Woods DC, Tilly JL. Extracellular matrix signaling activates differentiation of adult ovary-derived oogonial stem cells in a species-specific manner. Fertil Steril 2019; 111:794-805. [PMID: 30871765 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2018] [Revised: 12/01/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To test if ovarian microenvironmental cues affect oogonial stem cell (OSC) function in a species-specific manner. DESIGN Animal and human study. SETTING Research laboratory. PATIENT(S)/ANIMAL(S) Human ovarian cells obtained from cryopreserved ovarian cortical tissue of reproductive-age women, and ovarian cells and tissues from female C57BL/6 mice. INTERVENTION(S) Mouse ovarian tissue, mouse OSCs (mOSCs) and human OSCs (hOSCs) were analyzed for extracellular matrix (ECM) protein expression, and OSCs isolated from adult mouse and human ovaries were cultured in the absence or presence of ECM proteins without or with an integrin signaling inhibitor. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Gene expression and in vitro derived (IVD) oocyte formation. RESULT(S) Culture of mOSCs on a collagen-based ECM significantly elevated the rate of differentiation of the cells into IVD oocytes. Mouse OSCs expressed many integrins, including Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD)-binding subunits, and ECM-mediated increases in mOSC differentiation were blocked by addition of integrin-antagonizing RGD peptides. In comparison, hOSCs expressed a different pattern of integrin subunits compared with mOSCs, and hOSCs were unresponsive to a collagen-based ECM; however, hOSCs exhibited increased differentiation into IVD oocytes when cultured on laminin. CONCLUSION(S) These data, along with in silico analysis of ECM protein profiles in human ovaries, indicate that ovarian ECM-based niche components function in a species-specific manner to control OSC differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A MacDonald
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Yasushi Takai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Osamu Ishihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Seki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical Center, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Dori C Woods
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jonathan L Tilly
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts.
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49
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[Neo-oogenesis in the adult ovary: What do we know?]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 47:478-483. [PMID: 30818039 DOI: 10.1016/j.gofs.2019.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
For more than a decade, the existence of ovarian stem cells that can contribute to neo-oogenesis in the adult ovary is reported by some teams, challenging the dogma according to which mammalian females are born with a fixed and non-renewed germinal cell pool. The presence of germinal stem cells with mitotic activity suggests the possibility of potential postnatal oogenesis. These cells have both germ-line and stem cell markers in culture. They have been isolated using different strategies and their ability to differentiate into oocytes has been demonstrated since after reintroduction in an ovarian somatic environment, these cells generate follicles capable of producing healthy offspring in rodents. However, many scientists remain skeptical and question the reliability of the methods used. Despite that there is no consensus on the origin of these ovarian stem cells, private companies are now proposing to use their stem cell potential to treat human infertility.
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50
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Sheng X, Yang Y, Zhou J, Yan G, Liu M, Xu L, Li Z, Jiang R, Diao Z, Zhen X, Ding L, Sun H. Mitochondrial transfer from aged adipose-derived stem cells does not improve the quality of aged oocytes in C57BL/6 mice. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:516-529. [PMID: 30779242 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Revised: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Female fertility declines dramatically over the age of 35 due to age-related decreases in oocyte quality and quantity. Although mitochondrial transfer promises to be a technology that can improve the quality of such age-impaired oocytes, the ideal mitochondrial donor remains elusive. In the present study, we aimed to identify whether aged adipose-derived stem cells constitute an excellent mitochondrial donor that would improve the quality of aged mouse oocytes. We showed that aging significantly impaired the mitochondrial function in mouse oocytes, but did not significantly affect the mitochondrial function of adipose-derived stem cells. However, the mitochondrial transfer from aged adipose-derived stem cells did not mitigate the poor fertilization and embryonic development rates of aged oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqiang Sheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanjun Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Drum Tower Clinic Medical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianjun Zhou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Guijun Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Mengyuan Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Lu Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhongxun Li
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Ruiwei Jiang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhenyu Diao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Xin Zhen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Lijun Ding
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China.,Clinical Center for Stem Cell Research, Department of Experimental Medicine, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Haixiang Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
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