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Hutchinson AM, Appeltant R, Burdon T, Bao Q, Bargaje R, Bodnar A, Chambers S, Comizzoli P, Cook L, Endo Y, Harman B, Hayashi K, Hildebrandt T, Korody ML, Lakshmipathy U, Loring JF, Munger C, Ng AHM, Novak B, Onuma M, Ord S, Paris M, Pask AJ, Pelegri F, Pera M, Phelan R, Rosental B, Ryder OA, Sukparangsi W, Sullivan G, Tay NL, Traylor-Knowles N, Walker S, Weberling A, Whitworth DJ, Williams SA, Wojtusik J, Wu J, Ying QL, Zwaka TP, Kohler TN. Advancing stem cell technologies for conservation of wildlife biodiversity. Development 2024; 151:dev203116. [PMID: 39382939 DOI: 10.1242/dev.203116] [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] [Indexed: 10/10/2024]
Abstract
Wildlife biodiversity is essential for healthy, resilient and sustainable ecosystems. For biologists, this diversity also represents a treasure trove of genetic, molecular and developmental mechanisms that deepen our understanding of the origins and rules of life. However, the rapid decline in biodiversity reported recently foreshadows a potentially catastrophic collapse of many important ecosystems and the associated irreversible loss of many forms of life on our planet. Immediate action by conservationists of all stripes is required to avert this disaster. In this Spotlight, we draw together insights and proposals discussed at a recent workshop hosted by Revive & Restore, which gathered experts to discuss how stem cell technologies can support traditional conservation techniques and help protect animal biodiversity. We discuss reprogramming, in vitro gametogenesis, disease modelling and embryo modelling, and we highlight the prospects for leveraging stem cell technologies beyond mammalian species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ruth Appeltant
- Gamete Research Centre, Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Tom Burdon
- The Roslin Institute, RDSVS, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Midlothian EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Qiuye Bao
- IMCB-ESCAR, A*STAR, 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, 138673Singapore
| | | | - Andrea Bodnar
- Gloucester Marine Genomics Institute, 417 Main St, Gloucester, MA 01930, USA
| | - Stuart Chambers
- Brightfield Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 3001 Connecticut Ave., NW Washington, DC 20008, USA
| | - Laura Cook
- Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, 1 Cyclotron Rd, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Yoshinori Endo
- University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Bob Harman
- Vet-Stem Inc. & Personalized Stem Cells, Inc., 14261 Danielson Street, Poway, CA 92064, USA
| | | | - Thomas Hildebrandt
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße 17, 10315 Berlin, Germany
| | - Marisa L Korody
- San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
| | - Uma Lakshmipathy
- Thermo Fisher Scientific, 168 Third Avenue, Waltham, MA 02451, USA
| | - Jeanne F Loring
- The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Clara Munger
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Hopkins Building, Downing Site, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK
| | - Alex H M Ng
- GC Therapeutics, 610 Main St., North Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Ben Novak
- Revive & Restore, 1505 Bridgeway, Suite 203, Sausalito, CA 94965, USA
| | - Manabu Onuma
- National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa, City of Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8506, Japan
| | - Sara Ord
- Colossal Biosciences, 1401 Lavaca St, Unit #155 Austin, TX 78701, USA
| | - Monique Paris
- IBREAM (Institute for Breeding Rare and Endangered African Mammals), Edinburgh EH3 6AT, UK
| | - Andrew J Pask
- University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Francisco Pelegri
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, 500 Lincoln Dr, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Martin Pera
- Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
| | - Ryan Phelan
- Revive & Restore, 1505 Bridgeway, Suite 203, Sausalito, CA 94965, USA
| | - Benyamin Rosental
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cells, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Oliver A Ryder
- San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
| | - Woranop Sukparangsi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Burapha University, 169 Long-Had Bangsaen Rd, Saen Suk, Chon Buri District, Chon Buri 20131, Thailand
| | - Gareth Sullivan
- Department of Pediatric Research, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950 Nydalen, N-0424 Oslo, Norway
- School of Medicine, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews KY16 9TF, UK
| | | | - Nikki Traylor-Knowles
- Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science, University of Miami,4600, Rickenbacker Cswy, Key Biscayne, FL 33149, USA
| | - Shawn Walker
- ViaGen Pets & Equine, PO Box 1119, Cedar Park, TX 78613, USA
| | | | - Deanne J Whitworth
- University of Queensland, Sir Fred Schonell Drive, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | | | - Jessye Wojtusik
- Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, 3701 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68107, USA
| | - Jun Wu
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Qi-Long Ying
- Keck School of Medicine of University of Southern California, 1975 Zonal Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | - Thomas P Zwaka
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Regenerative Biology, and Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Timo N Kohler
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Hopkins Building, Downing Site, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK
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2
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Biasetti P, Mercugliano E, Schrade L, Spiriti MM, Göritz F, Holtze S, Seet S, Galli C, Stejskal J, Colleoni S, Čižmár D, Simone R, Hildebrandt TB, de Mori B. Ethical assessment of genome resource banking (GRB) in wildlife conservation. Cryobiology 2024; 117:104956. [PMID: 39181526 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2024.104956] [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: 06/23/2024] [Revised: 07/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Genome Resources Banks (GRBs) represent vital repositories for the systematic collection, storage, and management of genetic material across various taxa, with a primary objective of safeguarding genetic diversity for research and practical applications. Alongside the development of assisted reproductive techniques (ART), GRBs have evolved into indispensable tools in conservation, offering opportunities for species preservation, mitigating inbreeding risks, and facilitating genetic management across fragmented populations. By preserving genetic information in a suspended state, GRBs serve as backups against population vulnerabilities, potentially aiding in the restoration of endangered species and extending their genetic lifespan. While evidence demonstrates the efficacy of GRBs, ethical considerations surrounding biobanking procedures for wildlife conservation remain largely unexplored. In this article, we will discuss possible ethical issues related to GRBs and the need to ethically monitor biobanking procedures in wildlife conservation. We will then propose a methodological tool, ETHAS, already in use for the ethical self-assessment of assisted reproduction techniques, to assess also biobanking procedures. ETHAS can make it possible to monitor a GRB from its design phase to its actual operation, helping to build biobanking procedures that meet high ethical standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierfrancesco Biasetti
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany; Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, Padua University, Padua, Italy.
| | - Elena Mercugliano
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, Padua University, Padua, Italy; Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, Padua University, Padua, Italy
| | - Lisa Schrade
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Michela Spiriti
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, Padua University, Padua, Italy
| | - Frank Göritz
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Steven Seet
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Daniel Čižmár
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Raffaella Simone
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Barbara de Mori
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, Padua University, Padua, Italy; Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, Padua University, Padua, Italy.
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3
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Vorster L, de Bruin PR, Smuts MP, Durrant BS, de la Rey M, Herbst C, Holm DE. The effect of a warmed enema during ovum pick-up on subsequent in vitro oocyte maturation in Southern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum). J S Afr Vet Assoc 2024; 95:137-142. [PMID: 39248357 DOI: 10.36303/jsava.623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rhinoceros are currently one of the most threatened mammal species globally. Slow population growth, increased poaching and habitat destruction have led to increased conservation efforts for each species. Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) have been implemented in an attempt to aid reproductive outputs for the conservation of these endangered species. Developing species-specific ART programmes for wildlife have been challenging. Temperature control during oocyte recovery is essential for ensuring in vitro success. OBJECTIVE This study is the first to investigate the effect of enema warming prior to trans-rectal ovum pick-up (OPU) on in vitro oocyte maturation in Southern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum). METHODS OPUs were performed on 20 rhinoceros cows from three different game farms in South Africa; oocytes were transported to one of two in vitro fertilisation laboratories for culture. The enema fluid was either warmed to 32 °C or not warmed prior to the OPU. Location of the farm, the different laboratories, ambient temperature, season, aspiration probe temperature, media type and enema temperature were investigated as predictor variables for oocyte maturation success. RESULTS After considering all other potential covariates, warming of the enema fluid was the only independent predictor of in vitro oocyte maturation success during this study. CONCLUSION Oocytes retrieved from rhinoceros cows that received an enema warmed to 32 °C were 2.3 times more likely to mature in vitro compared to oocytes from cows that received an unwarmed enema; the findings can be implemented in other rhinoceros ART programmes and in conservation efforts of other endangered mammalian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Vorster
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - P R de Bruin
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa
- Reproduction and Perinatal Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Australia
| | - M P Smuts
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - B S Durrant
- San Diego Zoo Global, Institute for Conservation Research, United States of America
| | - M de la Rey
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - C Herbst
- Department of Animal and Wildlife Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, South Africa
- Rhino Repro NPC, South Africa
| | - D E Holm
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa
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Galli C, Lazzari G. 40 years of AETE: the contribution of scientists and practitioners to the progress of reproductive biotechnologies in Europe. Anim Reprod 2024; 21:e20240061. [PMID: 39286367 PMCID: PMC11404877 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2024-0061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
This conference celebrates the 40th anniversary of AETE. Over the past 40 years, AETE has served as a forum for scientists, practitioners, and students working in assisted animal reproduction in livestock species. AETE conferences have reflected developments in the field, from basic to applied science, as well as regulatory changes in assisted animal reproduction practices. Europe has led the way in these developments for many years, progressing from artificial insemination, embryo transfer, and cryopreservation to semen sexing, in vitro production of embryos, cloning by nuclear transfer, genomic selection, and the rescue of highly endangered species. These significant contributions were made possible by the support of funding agencies, both at the national and European levels, promoting cooperation between scientists and practitioners. Assisted reproduction, and animal breeding more generally, face opposition from various groups, including animal rights activists, vegetarians, proponents of organic farming, environmentalists, certain political parties, and increasing regulatory burdens. These challenges seriously affect funding for scientific research, the work of practitioners, and the breeding industry as a whole. It is crucial to invest time and resources in communication to remind the public, politicians, and regulators of the achievements in this field and the contributions made to the food supply chain and the care of the rural and natural environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesare Galli
- Avantea and Fondazione Avantea Onlus, Cremona, Italy
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5
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Klohonatz K, Durrant B, Sirard MA, Ruggeri E. Granulosa cells provide transcriptomic information on ovarian follicle dynamics in southern white rhinoceros. Sci Rep 2024; 14:19321. [PMID: 39164442 PMCID: PMC11336098 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-70235-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Much remains unknown about the reproductive physiology of southern white rhinoceros (SWR) and the effect of ovarian stimulation prior to ovum pickup (OPU) have not been fully elucidated. Granulosa cells (GC) provide valuable insight into follicle growth and oocyte maturation status. The goals of this study were to evaluate transcriptomic changes in GC from three stages of follicle development and to identify biomarkers possibly associated with follicular growth and maturation as a result of ovarian stimulation. GC collected from SWRs following OPU were assigned stages based upon follicle size. Total RNA was isolated, and cDNA libraries were prepared and sequenced on a NovaSeq 6000. All bioinformatics analyses were performed utilizing the Galaxy web platform. Reads were aligned to CerSimCot1.0, and the manual curation was performed with EquCab3.0. Overall, 39,455 transcripts (21,612 genes) were identified across follicle stages, and manual curation yielded a 61% increase in gene identification from the original annotation. Granulosa cells from preovulatory follicles expressed the highest number of unique transcripts. The following seven biomarkers were determined based upon cluster analysis and patterns of expression: COL1A1, JMY, FBXW11, NRG1, TMPO, MACIR and COL4A1. These data can be used to potentially evaluate the effects of different ovarian stimulation protocols on follicle dynamics, improve OPU results, and support conservation efforts in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Klohonatz
- Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Barbara Durrant
- Reproductive Sciences, Conservation Science Wildlife Health, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, Escondido, CA, USA
| | - Marc-André Sirard
- Département des Sciences Animales, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Elena Ruggeri
- Reproductive Sciences, Conservation Science Wildlife Health, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, Escondido, CA, USA.
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6
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Gad A, Menjivar NG, Felton R, Durrant B, Tesfaye D, Ruggeri E. Mapping the follicle-specific regulation of extracellular vesicle-mediated microRNA transport in the southern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum)†. Biol Reprod 2024; 111:376-390. [PMID: 38775197 PMCID: PMC11327318 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae081] [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: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Efforts to implement effective assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) for the conservation of the northern white rhinoceros (NWR; Ceratotherium simum cottoni) to prevent its forthcoming extinction, could be supported by research conducted on the closely related southern white rhinoceros (SWR; Ceratotherium simum simum). Within the follicle, extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a fundamental role in the bidirectional communication facilitating the crucial transport of regulatory molecules such as microRNAs (miRNAs) that control follicular growth and oocyte development. This study aimed to elucidate the dynamics of EV-miRNAs in stage-dependent follicular fluid (FF) during SWR ovarian antral follicle development. Three distinct follicular stages were identified based on diameter: Growing (G; 11-17 mm), Dominant (D; 18-29 mm), and Pre-ovulatory (P; 30-34 mm). Isolated EVs from the aspirated FF of segmented follicle stages were used to identify EV-miRNAs previously known via subsequent annotation to all equine (Equus caballus; eca), bovine (Bos taurus; bta), and human (Homo sapiens; hsa) miRNAs. A total of 417 miRNAs were detected, with 231 being mutually expressed across all three stages, including eca-miR-148a and bta-miR-451 as the top highly expressed miRNAs. Distinct expression dynamics in miRNA abundance were observed across the three follicular stages, including 31 differentially expressed miRNAs that target various pathways related to follicular growth and development, with 13 miRNAs commonly appearing amidst two different comparisons. In conclusion, this pioneering study provides a comprehensive understanding of the stage-specific expression dynamics of FF EV-miRNAs in the SWR. These findings provide insights that may lead to novel approaches in enhancing ARTs to catalyze rhinoceros conservation efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Gad
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory (ARBL), Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
| | - Nico G Menjivar
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory (ARBL), Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Rachel Felton
- Reproductive Sciences, Conservation Science Wildlife Health, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, Escondido, CA 92027, USA
| | - Barbara Durrant
- Reproductive Sciences, Conservation Science Wildlife Health, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, Escondido, CA 92027, USA
| | - Dawit Tesfaye
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory (ARBL), Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Elena Ruggeri
- Reproductive Sciences, Conservation Science Wildlife Health, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, Escondido, CA 92027, USA
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7
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Schrade L, Mah N, Bandrowski A, Chen Y, Dewender J, Diecke S, Hiepen C, Lancaster MA, Marques-Bonet T, Martinez S, Mueller SC, Navara C, Prigione A, Seltmann S, Sochacki J, Sutcliffe MA, Zywitza V, Hildebrandt TB, Kurtz A. A Standardized Nomenclature Design for Systematic Referencing and Identification of Animal Cellular Material. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1541. [PMID: 38891588 PMCID: PMC11171381 DOI: 10.3390/ani14111541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The documentation, preservation and rescue of biological diversity increasingly uses living biological samples. Persistent associations between species, biosamples, such as tissues and cell lines, and the accompanying data are indispensable for using, exchanging and benefiting from these valuable materials. Explicit authentication of such biosamples by assigning unique and robust identifiers is therefore required to allow for unambiguous referencing, avoid identification conflicts and maintain reproducibility in research. A predefined nomenclature based on uniform rules would facilitate this process. However, such a nomenclature is currently lacking for animal biological material. We here present a first, standardized, human-readable nomenclature design, which is sufficient to generate unique and stable identifying names for animal cellular material with a focus on wildlife species. A species-specific human- and machine-readable syntax is included in the proposed standard naming scheme, allowing for the traceability of donated material and cultured cells, as well as data FAIRification. Only when it is consistently applied in the public domain, as publications and inter-institutional samples and data are exchanged, distributed and stored centrally, can the risks of misidentification and loss of traceability be mitigated. This innovative globally applicable identification system provides a standard for a sustainable structure for the long-term storage of animal bio-samples in cryobanks and hence facilitates current as well as future species conservation and biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Schrade
- Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering (IBMT), 66280 Sulzbach, Germany
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), 10315 Berlin, Germany
| | - Nancy Mah
- Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering (IBMT), 66280 Sulzbach, Germany
| | - Anita Bandrowski
- Department of Neuroscience, FAIR Data Informatics Lab, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
- SciCrunch Inc., San Diego, CA 92192, USA
| | - Ying Chen
- Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering (IBMT), 66280 Sulzbach, Germany
| | - Johannes Dewender
- Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering (IBMT), 66280 Sulzbach, Germany
| | - Sebastian Diecke
- Technology Platform Pluripotent Stem Cells, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Christian Hiepen
- Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering (IBMT), 66280 Sulzbach, Germany
| | - Madeline A. Lancaster
- MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
| | - Tomas Marques-Bonet
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, Pompeu Fabra University—Spanish National Research Council, ICREA, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), 08010 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro Nacional de Analisis Genomico (CNAG), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Catalan Institute of Palaeontology Miquel Crusafont, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sira Martinez
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, Pompeu Fabra University—Spanish National Research Council, ICREA, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Barcelona, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sabine C. Mueller
- Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering (IBMT), 66280 Sulzbach, Germany
| | - Christopher Navara
- San Antonio Cellular Therapeutics Institute, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA
| | - Alessandro Prigione
- Department of General Pediatrics, Neonatology and Pediatric Cardiology, Duesseldorf University Hospital, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Stefanie Seltmann
- Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering (IBMT), 66280 Sulzbach, Germany
| | - Jaroslaw Sochacki
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Barcelona, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Vera Zywitza
- Technology Platform Pluripotent Stem Cells, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas B. Hildebrandt
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), 10315 Berlin, Germany
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Free University of Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Kurtz
- Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering (IBMT), 66280 Sulzbach, Germany
- Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), 13353 Berlin, Germany
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8
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Wu Y, Wang C, Fan X, Ma Y, Liu Z, Ye X, Shen C, Wu C. The impact of induced pluripotent stem cells in animal conservation. Vet Res Commun 2024; 48:649-663. [PMID: 38228922 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-024-10294-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
It is widely acknowledged that we are currently facing a critical tipping point with regards to global extinction, with human activities driving us perilously close to the brink of a devastating sixth mass extinction. As a promising option for safeguarding endangered species, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) hold great potential to aid in the preservation of threatened animal populations. For endangered species, such as the northern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum cottoni), supply of embryos is often limited. After the death of the last male in 2019, only two females remained in the world. IPSC technology offers novel approaches and techniques for obtaining pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) from rare and endangered animal species. Successful generation of iPSCs circumvents several bottlenecks that impede the development of PSCs, including the challenges associated with establishing embryonic stem cells, limited embryo sources and immune rejection following embryo transfer. To provide more opportunities and room for growth in our work on animal welfare, in this paper we will focus on the progress made with iPSC lines derived from endangered and extinct species, exploring their potential applications and limitations in animal welfare research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yurou Wu
- School of Pharmacy/School of Modem Chinese Medicine Industry, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengwei Wang
- School of Pharmacy/School of Modem Chinese Medicine Industry, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinyun Fan
- School of Pharmacy/School of Modem Chinese Medicine Industry, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuxiao Ma
- Department of Biology, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zibo Liu
- School of Pharmacy/School of Modem Chinese Medicine Industry, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, People's Republic of China
| | - Xun Ye
- School of Pharmacy/School of Modem Chinese Medicine Industry, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 611137, People's Republic of China
| | - Chongyang Shen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, People's Republic of China.
| | - Chunjie Wu
- Innovative Institute of Chinese Medicine and Pharmacy/Academy for Interdiscipline, Chengdu Univesity of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611137, People's Republic of China.
- Sichuan Engineering Research Center for Endangered Medicinal Animals, Chengdu, China.
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9
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Wilder AP, Steiner CC, Hendricks S, Haller BC, Kim C, Korody ML, Ryder OA. Genetic load and viability of a future restored northern white rhino population. Evol Appl 2024; 17:e13683. [PMID: 38617823 PMCID: PMC11009427 DOI: 10.1111/eva.13683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
As biodiversity loss outpaces recovery, conservationists are increasingly turning to novel tools for preventing extinction, including cloning and in vitro gametogenesis of biobanked cells. However, restoration of populations can be hindered by low genetic diversity and deleterious genetic load. The persistence of the northern white rhino (Ceratotherium simum cottoni) now depends on the cryopreserved cells of 12 individuals. These banked genomes have higher genetic diversity than southern white rhinos (C. s. simum), a sister subspecies that successfully recovered from a severe bottleneck, but the potential impact of genetic load is unknown. We estimated how demographic history has shaped genome-wide genetic load in nine northern and 13 southern white rhinos. The bottleneck left southern white rhinos with more fixed and homozygous deleterious alleles and longer runs of homozygosity, whereas northern white rhinos retained more deleterious alleles masked in heterozygosity. To gauge the impact of genetic load on the fitness of a northern white rhino population restored from biobanked cells, we simulated recovery using fitness of southern white rhinos as a benchmark for a viable population. Unlike traditional restoration, cell-derived founders can be reintroduced in subsequent generations to boost lost genetic diversity and relieve inbreeding. In simulations with repeated reintroduction of founders into a restored population, the fitness cost of genetic load remained lower than that borne by southern white rhinos. Without reintroductions, rapid growth of the restored population (>20-30% per generation) would be needed to maintain comparable fitness. Our results suggest that inbreeding depression from genetic load is not necessarily a barrier to recovery of the northern white rhino and demonstrate how restoration from biobanked cells relieves some constraints of conventional restoration from a limited founder pool. Established conservation methods that protect healthy populations will remain paramount, but emerging technologies hold promise to bolster these tools to combat the extinction crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aryn P. Wilder
- Conservation GeneticsSan Diego Zoo Wildlife AllianceEscondidoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Cynthia C. Steiner
- Conservation GeneticsSan Diego Zoo Wildlife AllianceEscondidoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Sarah Hendricks
- Conservation GeneticsSan Diego Zoo Wildlife AllianceEscondidoCaliforniaUSA
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Data SciencesUniversity of IdahoMoscowIdahoUSA
| | | | - Chang Kim
- University of CaliforniaSanta Cruz Genomics InstituteSanta CruzCaliforniaUSA
- Department of Neurological SurgeryUniversity of CaliforniaSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Marisa L. Korody
- Conservation GeneticsSan Diego Zoo Wildlife AllianceEscondidoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Oliver A. Ryder
- Conservation GeneticsSan Diego Zoo Wildlife AllianceEscondidoCaliforniaUSA
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10
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Zhang Z, Xiong Y, Jiang H, Wang Q, Hu X, Wei X, Chen Q, Chen T. Vaginal extracellular vesicles impair fertility in endometriosis by favoring Th17/Treg imbalance and inhibiting sperm activity. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e31188. [PMID: 38192157 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a key role in various diseases. However, their effect on endometriosis (EMs)-associated infertility is poorly understood. We co-cultured EVs from the female vaginal secretions with human sperm and also generated a mouse model of EMs by allogenic transplant to explore the effect of EVs on fertility. EVs from individuals with EMs-associated infertility (E-EVs) significantly inhibited the total motility (26.46% vs. 47.1%), progressive motility (18.78% vs. 41.06%), linear velocity (21.98 vs. 41.91 µm/s) and the acrosome reaction (AR) rate (5% vs. 22.3%) of human sperm in contrast to the control group (PBS). Furthermore, E-EVs dose-dependently decreased the intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i), a pivotal regulator of sperm function. Conversely, healthy women (H-EVs) increased human sperm motion parameters, the AR rate, and sperm [Ca2+]i. Importantly, the mouse model of EMs confirmed that E-EVs further decreased the conception rate and the mean number of embryo implantations (7.6 ± 3.06 vs. 4.5 ± 3.21) compared with the control mice by inducing the production of inflammatory cytokines leading to a Th17/Treg imbalance. H-EVs could restore impaired fertility by restoring the Th17/Treg balance. We determined the impact of EVs derived from the female genital tract on human sperm function and studied the possible mechanisms by which it affects fertility. Our findings provide a novel rationale to ameliorate EMs-associated infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuo Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yangbai Xiong
- International Tourism and Convention Management, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Huifu Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xinyue Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xin Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Tingtao Chen
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institution of Translational Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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11
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Fluks M, Collier R, Walewska A, Bruce AW, Ajduk A. How great thou ART: biomechanical properties of oocytes and embryos as indicators of quality in assisted reproductive technologies. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1342905. [PMID: 38425501 PMCID: PMC10902081 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1342905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) have revolutionized infertility treatment and animal breeding, but their success largely depends on selecting high-quality oocytes for fertilization and embryos for transfer. During preimplantation development, embryos undergo complex morphogenetic processes, such as compaction and cavitation, driven by cellular forces dependent on cytoskeletal dynamics and cell-cell interactions. These processes are pivotal in dictating an embryo's capacity to implant and progress to full-term development. Hence, a comprehensive grasp of the biomechanical attributes characterizing healthy oocytes and embryos is essential for selecting those with higher developmental potential. Various noninvasive techniques have emerged as valuable tools for assessing biomechanical properties without disturbing the oocyte or embryo physiological state, including morphokinetics, analysis of cytoplasmic movement velocity, or quantification of cortical tension and elasticity using microaspiration. By shedding light on the cytoskeletal processes involved in chromosome segregation, cytokinesis, cellular trafficking, and cell adhesion, underlying oogenesis, and embryonic development, this review explores the significance of embryo biomechanics in ART and its potential implications for improving clinical IVF outcomes, offering valuable insights and research directions to enhance oocyte and embryo selection procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Fluks
- Department of Embryology, Institute of Developmental Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Rebecca Collier
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Agnieszka Walewska
- Department of Embryology, Institute of Developmental Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Alexander W. Bruce
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Anna Ajduk
- Department of Embryology, Institute of Developmental Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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12
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Simone R, Čižmár D, Holtze S, Michel G, Sporbert A, Okolo C, Hildebrandt TB. In vitro production of naked mole-rats' blastocysts from non-breeding females using in vitro maturation and intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22355. [PMID: 38102304 PMCID: PMC10724253 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49661-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The African naked mole-rat (Heterocephalus glaber) is an attractive model for cancer and aging research due to its peculiar biological traits, such as unusual long life span and resistance to cancer. The establishment of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) would be a useful tool for in vitro studies but, in this species, the reprogramming of somatic cells is problematic because of their stable epigenome. Therefore, an alternative approach is the derivation of embryonic stem cells from in vitro-produced embryos. In this study, immature oocytes, opportunistically retrieved from sexually inactive females, underwent first in vitro maturation (IVM) and then in vitro fertilization via piezo-intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Injected oocytes were then cultivated with two different approaches: (i) in an in vitro culture and (ii) in an isolated mouse oviduct organ culture system. The second approach led to the development of blastocysts, which were fixed and stained for further analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Simone
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin eV, Reproduction Management, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße, Berlin, Germany
- Freie Universitaet Berlin, Veterinary Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniel Čižmár
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin eV, Reproduction Management, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin eV, Reproduction Management, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße, Berlin, Germany
| | - Geert Michel
- FEM, Transgenic Technologies, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anje Sporbert
- Advanced Light Microscopy Technology Platform (Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine), Campus Buch, Berlin, Germany
| | - Charlotte Okolo
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin eV, Reproduction Management, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße, Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas B Hildebrandt
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin eV, Reproduction Management, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße, Berlin, Germany
- Freie Universitaet Berlin, Veterinary Medicine, Berlin, Germany
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13
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Hildebrandt TB, Holtze S, Colleoni S, Hermes R, Stejskal J, Lekolool I, Ndeereh D, Omondi P, Kariuki L, Mijele D, Mutisya S, Ngulu S, Diecke S, Hayashi K, Lazzari G, de Mori B, Biasetti P, Quaggio A, Galli C, Goeritz F. In vitro fertilization program in white rhinoceros. Reproduction 2023; 166:383-399. [PMID: 37877686 PMCID: PMC10620463 DOI: 10.1530/rep-23-0087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
In brief To save endangered rhinoceros species, assisted reproductive technologies are warranted. We here report in vitro blastocyst generation of the Near-Threatened Southern white rhinoceros and, for the first time, also of the technically Extinct Northern white rhinoceros. Abstract The Anthropocene is marked by a dramatic biodiversity decline, particularly affecting the family Rhinocerotidae. Three of five extant species are listed as Critically Endangered (Sumatran, Javan, black rhinoceros), one as Vulnerable (Indian rhinoceros), and only one white rhino (WR) subspecies, the Southern white rhinoceros (SWR), after more than a century of successful protection is currently classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN, while numbers again are declining. Conversely, in 2008, the SWR's northern counterpart and second WR subspecies, the Northern white rhinoceros (NWR), was declared extinct in the wild. Safeguarding these vanishing keystone species urgently requires new reproductive strategies. We here assess one such strategy, the novel in vitro fertilization program in SWR and - for the first-time NWR - regarding health effects, donor-related, and procedural factors. Over the past 8 years, we performed 65 procedures in 22 white rhinoceros females (20 SWR and 2 NWR) comprising hormonal ovarian stimulation, ovum pick-up (OPU), in vitro oocyte maturation, fertilization, embryo culture, and blastocyst cryopreservation, at an efficiency of 1.0 ± 1.3 blastocysts per OPU, generating 22 NWR, 19 SWR and 10 SWR/NWR hybrid blastocysts for the future generation of live offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Bernd Hildebrandt
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin eV, Reproduction Management, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße, Berlin, Germany
- Freie Universitat Berlin, Veterinary Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin eV, Reproduction Management, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße, Berlin, Germany
| | - Silvia Colleoni
- AVANTEA, Laboratorio di Tecnologie della Riproduzione, Lombardy, Cremona, Italy
| | - Robert Hermes
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin eV, Reproduction Management, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jan Stejskal
- ZOO Dvůr Králové, Communication and International Projects, Štefánikova, Dvůr Králové nad Labem, Czech Republic
| | - Isaac Lekolool
- Kenya Wildlife Service, Veterinary and Capture Services, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - David Ndeereh
- Wildlife Training and Research Institute, Nakuru County, Naivasha, Kenya
| | - Patrick Omondi
- Kenya Wildlife Service, Veterinary and Capture Services, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Linus Kariuki
- Kenya Wildlife Service, Veterinary and Capture Services, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Domnic Mijele
- Kenya Wildlife Service, Veterinary and Capture Services, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Samuel Mutisya
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Conservation Laikipia, Nanyuki, Kenya
| | - Stephen Ngulu
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Conservation Laikipia, Nanyuki, Kenya
| | - Sebastian Diecke
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Technology Platform Pluripotent Stem Cells, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katsuhiko Hayashi
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Kyushu University, Maidashi, Higashiku, Fukuoka, Japan
- Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Giovanna Lazzari
- AVANTEA, Laboratorio di Tecnologie della Riproduzione, Lombardy, Cremona, Italy
| | - Barbara de Mori
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, Università degli Studi di Padova, Italy
- Universita degli Studi di Padova, Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation, and Animal Welfare, Veneto, Padova, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Biasetti
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin eV, Reproduction Management, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße, Berlin, Germany
- Universita degli Studi di Padova, Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation, and Animal Welfare, Veneto, Padova, Italy
| | - Alessandra Quaggio
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin eV, Reproduction Management, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße, Berlin, Germany
| | - Cesare Galli
- AVANTEA, Laboratorio di Tecnologie della Riproduzione, Lombardy, Cremona, Italy
- Fondazione Avantea, Riproduzione Cremona, Lombardy, Cremona, Italy
| | - Frank Goeritz
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) in the Forschungsverbund Berlin eV, Reproduction Management, Alfred-Kowalke-Straße, Berlin, Germany
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14
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Appeltant R, Hermes R, Holtze S, Modina SC, Galli C, Bjarkadottir BD, Adeniran BV, Wei X, Swegen A, Hildebrandt TB, Williams SA. The neonatal southern white rhinoceros ovary contains oogonia in germ cell nests. Commun Biol 2023; 6:1049. [PMID: 37848538 PMCID: PMC10582104 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05256-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The northern white rhinoceros is functionally extinct with only two females left. Establishing methods to culture ovarian tissues, follicles, and oocytes to generate eggs will support conservation efforts using in vitro embryo production. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first description of the structure and molecular signature of any rhinoceros, more specifically, we describe the neonatal and adult southern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum) ovary; the closest relation of the northern white rhinoceros. Interestingly, all ovaries contain follicles despite advanced age. Analysis of the neonate reveals a population of cells molecularly characterised as mitotically active, pluripotent with germ cell properties. These results indicate that unusually, the neonatal ovary still contains oogonia in germ cell nests at birth, providing an opportunity for fertility preservation. Therefore, utilising ovaries from stillborn and adult rhinoceros can provide cells for advanced assisted reproductive technologies and investigating the neonatal ovaries of other endangered species is crucial for conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Appeltant
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, Level 3, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
- Gamete Research Centre, Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Robert Hermes
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str 17, D-10315, Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str 17, D-10315, Berlin, Germany
| | - Silvia Clotilde Modina
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell'Università 6, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Cesare Galli
- Avantea srl, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, Via Porcellasco 7/F, 26100, Cremona, Italy
- Fondazione Avantea, 26100, Cremona, Italy
| | - Briet D Bjarkadottir
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, Level 3, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Babatomisin V Adeniran
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, Level 3, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Xi Wei
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, Level 3, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Aleona Swegen
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, Level 3, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, 2308, NSW, Australia
| | - Thomas Bernd Hildebrandt
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell'Università 6, 26900, Lodi, Italy
- Freie Universität Berlin, D-14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Suzannah A Williams
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, Level 3, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK.
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15
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Oback B, Cossey DA. Chimaeras, complementation, and controlling the male germline. Trends Biotechnol 2023; 41:1237-1247. [PMID: 37173191 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2023.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Animal breeding drives genetic progress mainly through the male germline. This process is slow to respond to rapidly mounting environmental pressures that threaten sustainable food security from animal protein production. New approaches promise to accelerate breeding by producing chimaeras, which comprise sterile host and fertile donor genotypes, to exclusively transmit elite male germlines. Following gene editing to generate sterile host cells, the missing germline can be restored by transplanting either: (i) spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) into the testis; or (ii) embryonic stem cells (ESCs) into early embryos. Here we compare these alternative germline complementation strategies and their impact on agribiotechnology and species conservation. We propose a novel breeding platform that integrates embryo-based complementation with genomic selection, multiplication, and gene modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Björn Oback
- AgResearch, Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton, New Zealand; School of Sciences, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand; School of Medical Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Daniel A Cossey
- AgResearch, Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton, New Zealand; School of Sciences, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
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16
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Lázaro J, Costanzo M, Sanaki-Matsumiya M, Girardot C, Hayashi M, Hayashi K, Diecke S, Hildebrandt TB, Lazzari G, Wu J, Petkov S, Behr R, Trivedi V, Matsuda M, Ebisuya M. A stem cell zoo uncovers intracellular scaling of developmental tempo across mammals. Cell Stem Cell 2023; 30:938-949.e7. [PMID: 37343565 PMCID: PMC10321541 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2023.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
Differential speeds in biochemical reactions have been proposed to be responsible for the differences in developmental tempo between mice and humans. However, the underlying mechanism controlling the species-specific kinetics remains to be determined. Using in vitro differentiation of pluripotent stem cells, we recapitulated the segmentation clocks of diverse mammalian species varying in body weight and taxa: marmoset, rabbit, cattle, and rhinoceros. Together with mouse and human, the segmentation clock periods of the six species did not scale with the animal body weight, but with the embryogenesis length. The biochemical kinetics of the core clock gene HES7 displayed clear scaling with the species-specific segmentation clock period. However, the cellular metabolic rates did not show an evident correlation. Instead, genes involving biochemical reactions showed an expression pattern that scales with the segmentation clock period. Altogether, our stem cell zoo uncovered general scaling laws governing species-specific developmental tempo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Lázaro
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Barcelona, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Collaboration for joint PhD degree between EMBL and Heidelberg University, Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Maria Costanzo
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Barcelona, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marina Sanaki-Matsumiya
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Barcelona, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Charles Girardot
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Genome Biology Unit, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Masafumi Hayashi
- Department of Genome Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita 565-0871, Osaka, Japan
| | - Katsuhiko Hayashi
- Department of Genome Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita 565-0871, Osaka, Japan
| | - Sebastian Diecke
- Technology Platform Pluripotent Stem Cells, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | - Jun Wu
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-9148, USA; Hamon Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-9148, USA
| | - Stoyan Petkov
- Platform Degenerative Diseases, German Primate Center - Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Kellnerweg 4, 37077 Göttingen, Germany; German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Rüdiger Behr
- Platform Degenerative Diseases, German Primate Center - Leibniz Institute for Primate Research, Kellnerweg 4, 37077 Göttingen, Germany; German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Vikas Trivedi
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Barcelona, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Mitsuhiro Matsuda
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Barcelona, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Miki Ebisuya
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Barcelona, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Cluster of Excellence Physics of Life, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
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17
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Meuffels-Barkas J, Wilsher S, Allen WRT, Ververs C, Lueders I. Comparative reproduction of the female horse, elephant and rhinoceros: implications for advancing Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART). REPRODUCTION AND FERTILITY 2023; 4:RAF-23-0020. [PMID: 37439577 PMCID: PMC10448597 DOI: 10.1530/raf-23-0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent loss of rhinoceros subspecies has renewed interest in using more advanced assisted reproductive technologies (ART) in rhinoceroses and elephants. Currently, only semen collection, semen preservation and artificial insemination (AI) have been used repeatedly with success in these species. Although ovum pick-up (OPU) and intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) have been reported in rhinoceroses, the techniques are not yet optimised. In contrast, multiple ART applications are routinely used in the horse. Since elephant and rhinoceroses share some reproductive features with equids, we postulate that procedures such as OPU, ICSI, in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and embryo transfer (ET), which are well established in the horse, may represent a basis to develop protocols for endangered pachyderms. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on reproductive physiology relevant to ART. We discuss the current state of ART in all three families and the requirements for the successful implementation of OPU, ICSI, IVF and ET in these species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine Meuffels-Barkas
- Cryovault, Rhino Force SA NPC, Tokai, South Africa
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - Sandra Wilsher
- The Paul Mellon Laboratory, Brunswick, Newmarket, Suffolk, UK
| | - W R Twink Allen
- The Paul Mellon Laboratory, Brunswick, Newmarket, Suffolk, UK
| | | | - Imke Lueders
- Cryovault, Rhino Force SA NPC, Tokai, South Africa
- Mammal Research Institute, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, South Africa
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18
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Ledesma AV, Mueller ML, Van Eenennaam AL. Review: Progress in producing chimeric ungulate livestock for agricultural applications. Animal 2023; 17 Suppl 1:100803. [PMID: 37567671 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2023.100803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The progress made in recent years in the derivation and culture of pluripotent stem cells from farm animals opens up the possibility of creating livestock chimeras. Chimeras producing gametes exclusively derived from elite donor stem cells could pass superior genetics on to the next generation and thereby reduce the genetic lag that typically exists between the elite breeding sector and the commercial production sector, especially for industries like beef and sheep where genetics is commonly disseminated through natural service mating. Chimeras carrying germ cells generated from genome-edited or genetically engineered pluripotent stem cells could further disseminate useful genomic alterations such as climate adaptation, animal welfare improvements, the repair of deleterious genetic conditions, and/or the elimination of undesired traits such as disease susceptibility to the next generation. Despite the successful production of chimeras with germ cells generated from pluripotent donor stem cells injected into preimplantation-stage blastocysts in model species, there are no documented cases of this occurring in livestock. Here, we review the literature on the derivation of pluripotent stem cells from ungulates, and progress in the production of chimeric ungulate livestock for agricultural applications, drawing on insights from studies done in model species, and discuss future possibilities of this fast-moving and developing field. Aside from the technical aspects, the consistency of the regulatory approach taken by different jurisdictions towards chimeric ungulate livestock with germ cells generated from pluripotent stem cells and their progeny will be an important determinant of breeding industry uptake and adoption in animal agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba V Ledesma
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Maci L Mueller
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Alison L Van Eenennaam
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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19
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Schwarzenberger F, Hermes R. Comparative analysis of gestation in three rhinoceros species (Diceros bicornis; Ceratotherium simum; Rhinoceros unicornis). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2023; 334:114214. [PMID: 36646327 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2023.114214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
This comparative analysis evaluated endocrine profiles and gestation length data of captive pregnant black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis), white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum), and greater one-horned (GOH) rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis). Hormone profiles were collected over three decades as part of pregnancy diagnoses. After the third month of gestation, the luteo-placental shift in progesterone production in pregnant rhinoceroses causes a significant increase in the concentration of faecal progesterone metabolites. We defined a laboratory-specific value of 1000 ng/g faeces as a threshold for incipient feto-placental progesterone production. Using this value allowed a comparison between species and revealed significant individual differences within a species. The mean ± SEM gestation days for reaching the 1000 ng/g faeces threshold were 89.5 ± 2.9 (range 56-138 days; n = 39) in black, 96.0 ± 2.6 (58-138; n = 39) in white, and 117.8 ± 5.3 (74-173; n = 19) in GOH rhinoceroses. For the calculations of gestation length, we complemented our results from three decades of reproductive monitoring with data from the literature, resulting in about 70 values for each species. Gestation length in the black, the white and the GOH rhinoceros was 460.6 ± 1.5 (range: 436 - 486), 503.8 ± 1.3 (range: 480 - 525) and 480.5 ± 1.1 (range: 453 - 505) days, respectively. Daylight length significantly affected gestation length, while the sex of offspring had no effect. On average, pregnancies with parturitions in spring and summer were one week shorter than those in autumn and winter. Although rhinoceroses are non-seasonal breeders, most parturitions in captivity occur in autumn and winter. We also analysed preconception endocrine profiles in the white rhinoceros. Conceptions in this species occurred after oestrous cycles of approximately 35 days (n = 18), 70 days (n = 3), 15 days (n = 1), after periods of ovarian inactivity (n = 5), and during a foal heat within one month after stillbirth parturition (n = 1). In conclusion, this study provides a comprehensive overview of gestational parameters in three rhinoceros species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franz Schwarzenberger
- Dept. of Biomed. Sci. - Physiology, Pathophysiology & Experimental Endocrinology, Vetmeduni Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Robert Hermes
- Dept. Reproduction Management, Leibnitz Institute for Zoo & Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str 17, 10315 Berlin, Germany.
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20
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Biasetti P, Hildebrandt TB, Göritz F, Hermes R, Holtze S, Stejskal J, Galli C, Pollastri I, Muzzo A, Lekolool I, Ndereeh D, Omondi P, Kariuki L, Mijele D, Mutisya S, Ngulu S, de Mori B. Application of decision tools to ethical analysis in biodiversity conservation. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2023; 37:e14029. [PMID: 36317722 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.14029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Achieving ethically responsible decisions is crucial for the success of biodiversity conservation projects. We adapted the ethical matrix, decision tree, and Bateson's cube to assist in the ethical analysis of complex conservation scenarios by structuring these tools so that they can implement the different value dimensions (environmental, social, and animal welfare) involved in conservation ethics. We then applied them to a case study relative to the decision-making process regarding whether or not to continue collecting biomaterial on the oldest of the two remaining northern white rhinoceroses (Ceratotherium simum cottoni), a functionally extinct subspecies of the white rhinoceros. We used the ethical matrix to gather ethical pros and cons and as a starting point for a participatory approach to ethical decision-making. We used decision trees to compare the different options at stake on the basis of a set of ethical desiderata. We used Bateson's cube to establish a threshold of ethical acceptability and model the results of a simple survey. The application of these tools proved to be pivotal in structuring the decision-making process and in helping reach a shared, reasoned, and transparent decision on the best option from an ethical point of view among those available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierfrancesco Biasetti
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, Padua University, Padua, Italy
| | - Thomas B Hildebrandt
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Göritz
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert Hermes
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jan Stejskal
- ZOO Dvůr Králové, Králové nad Labem, Czech Republic
| | - Cesare Galli
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, Cremona, Italy
| | - Ilaria Pollastri
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, Padua University, Padua, Italy
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Alessia Muzzo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | | | - David Ndereeh
- Wildlife Research and Training Institute, Karagita, Kenya
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Barbara de Mori
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, Padua University, Padua, Italy
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
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21
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Time-lapse imaging and developmental competence of donkey eggs after ICSI: Effect of preovulatory follicular fluid during oocyte in vitro maturation. Theriogenology 2023; 195:199-208. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.10.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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22
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Hayashi M, Zywitza V, Naitou Y, Hamazaki N, Goeritz F, Hermes R, Holtze S, Lazzari G, Galli C, Stejskal J, Diecke S, Hildebrandt TB, Hayashi K. Robust induction of primordial germ cells of white rhinoceros on the brink of extinction. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabp9683. [PMID: 36490332 PMCID: PMC9733929 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abp9683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
In vitro gametogenesis, the process of generating gametes from pluripotent cells in culture, is a powerful tool for improving our understanding of germ cell development and an alternative source of gametes. Here, we induced primordial germ cell-like cells (PGCLCs) from pluripotent stem cells of the northern white rhinoceros (NWR), a species for which only two females remain, and southern white rhinoceros (SWR), the closest species to the NWR. PGCLC differentiation from SWR embryonic stem cells is highly reliant on bone morphogenetic protein and WNT signals. Genetic analysis revealed that SRY-box transcription factor 17 (SOX17) is essential for SWR-PGCLC induction. Under the defined condition, NWR induced pluripotent stem cells differentiated into PGCLCs. We also identified cell surface markers, CD9 and Integrin subunit alpha 6 (ITGA6), that enabled us to isolate PGCLCs without genetic alteration in pluripotent stem cells. This study provides a first step toward the production of NWR gametes in culture and understanding of the basic mechanism of primordial germ cell specification in a large animal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masafumi Hayashi
- Department of Genome Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Vera Zywitza
- Technology Platform Pluripotent Stem Cells, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin 13125, Germany
| | - Yuki Naitou
- Department of Genome Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Nobuhiko Hamazaki
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Frank Goeritz
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin 10315, Germany
| | - Robert Hermes
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin 10315, Germany
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin 10315, Germany
| | - Giovanna Lazzari
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, Cremona 26100, Italy
- Fondazione Avantea, Cremona 26100, Italy
| | - Cesare Galli
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, Cremona 26100, Italy
- Fondazione Avantea, Cremona 26100, Italy
| | - Jan Stejskal
- ZOO Dvůr Králové, Dvůr Králové nad Labem 54401, Czech Republic
| | - Sebastian Diecke
- Technology Platform Pluripotent Stem Cells, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), Berlin 13125, Germany
| | - Thomas B. Hildebrandt
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin 10315, Germany
- Freie Universitaet Berlin, Berlin D-14195, Germany
| | - Katsuhiko Hayashi
- Department of Genome Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
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23
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Verma R, Lee Y, Salamone DF. iPSC Technology: An Innovative Tool for Developing Clean Meat, Livestock, and Frozen Ark. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:3187. [PMID: 36428414 PMCID: PMC9686897 DOI: 10.3390/ani12223187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology is an emerging technique to reprogram somatic cells into iPSCs that have revolutionary benefits in the fields of drug discovery, cellular therapy, and personalized medicine. However, these applications are just the tip of an iceberg. Recently, iPSC technology has been shown to be useful in not only conserving the endangered species, but also the revival of extinct species. With increasing consumer reliance on animal products, combined with an ever-growing population, there is a necessity to develop alternative approaches to conventional farming practices. One such approach involves the development of domestic farm animal iPSCs. This approach provides several benefits in the form of reduced animal death, pasture degradation, water consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions. Hence, it is essentially an environmentally-friendly alternative to conventional farming. Additionally, this approach ensures decreased zoonotic outbreaks and a constant food supply. Here, we discuss the iPSC technology in the form of a "Frozen Ark", along with its potential impact on spreading awareness of factory farming, foodborne disease, and the ecological footprint of the meat industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajneesh Verma
- VG Biomed Thailand Ltd., 888 Polaris Tower, 6th Floor, Soi Sukhumvit 20, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
| | - Younghyun Lee
- VG Biomed Thailand Ltd., 888 Polaris Tower, 6th Floor, Soi Sukhumvit 20, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biotechnology, Building 454, Rm 343, Gyeongsang National University, 501 Jinjudae-ro, Jinju 52828, Republic of Korea
| | - Daniel F. Salamone
- Department de Produccion Animal, Facultad de Agronomia, University of Buenos Aires, Av. San Martin 4453 Ciudad Autonoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires B1406, Argentina
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24
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Ruggeri E, Young C, Ravida N, Sirard MA, Krisher R, de la Rey M, Herbst C, Durrant B. Glucose consumption and gene expression in granulosa cells collected before and after in vitro oocyte maturation in the southern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum). Reprod Fertil Dev 2022; 34:875-888. [PMID: 35871524 DOI: 10.1071/rd22071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT With two northern white rhinos (NWR) remaining, the continued existence of this species relies on studying their relative, the southern white rhino (SWR). AIMS (1) Characterise gene expression in granulosa cells (GC) from SWR cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) prior to (Pre-) and after (Post-) in vitro maturation (IVM), comparing culture media and oocytes from donors treated with or without gonadotropin stimulation prior to ovum recovery; and (2) evaluate COC glucose consumption in spent media. METHODS COCs were retrieved from four SWRs. Granulosa cells were collected before and after IVM in SDZ or IZW medium. Total RNA was evaluated by qPCR. KEY RESULTS Oocyte maturation was greater in SDZ than IZW media. Expression of genes associated with follicle development increased in Pre-IVM GC. Six genes were differentially expressed in Post-IVM GC from stimulated compared to unstimulated donors. COCs from stimulated animals consumed more glucose. Fifty seven percent of oocytes in SDZ medium consumed all available glucose. CONCLUSIONS Gene expression changed upon in vitro maturation and gonadotropin stimulation. Higher glucose availability might be needed during IVM. IMPLICATIONS This is the first study examining GC gene expression and COC metabolic requirements in rhinoceros, which are critical aspects to optimise IVM of rhinoceros oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Ruggeri
- Reproductive Sciences, Beckman Center for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, 15600 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA 92027, USA
| | - C Young
- Reproductive Sciences, Beckman Center for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, 15600 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA 92027, USA
| | - N Ravida
- Reproductive Sciences, Beckman Center for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, 15600 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA 92027, USA
| | - M A Sirard
- Departement des Sciences Animales, Centre de Recherce en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Inter-générationnelle (CRDSI), Université Laval, Pavillion Des Services, Local 2732, Quebec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - R Krisher
- Genus PLC, 1525 River Road, De Forest, WI 53532, USA
| | - M de la Rey
- Embryo Plus, 41 Hendrik Vrewoerd Avenue, Brits 0250, South Africa
| | - C Herbst
- Embryo Plus, 41 Hendrik Vrewoerd Avenue, Brits 0250, South Africa
| | - B Durrant
- Reproductive Sciences, Beckman Center for Conservation Research, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, 15600 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA 92027, USA
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25
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Biasetti P, Hildebrandt TB, Göritz F, Hermes R, Holtze S, Galli C, Lazzari G, Colleoni S, Pollastri I, Spiriti MM, Stejskal J, Seet S, Zwilling J, Ngulu S, Mutisya S, Kariuki L, Lokolool I, Omondo P, Ndeereh D, de Mori B. Ethical Analysis of the Application of Assisted Reproduction Technologies in Biodiversity Conservation and the Case of White Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) Ovum Pick-Up Procedures. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:831675. [PMID: 35591869 PMCID: PMC9113018 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.831675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Originally applied on domestic and lab animals, assisted reproduction technologies (ARTs) have also found application in conservation breeding programs, where they can make the genetic management of populations more efficient, and increase the number of individuals per generation. However, their application in wildlife conservation opens up new ethical scenarios that have not yet been fully explored. This study presents a frame for the ethical analysis of the application of ART procedures in conservation based on the Ethical Matrix (EM), and discusses a specific case study—ovum pick-up (OPU) procedures performed in the current conservation efforts for the northern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum cottoni)—providing a template for the assessment of ART procedures in projects involving other endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierfrancesco Biasetti
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation, and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- *Correspondence: Pierfrancesco Biasetti
| | - Thomas B. Hildebrandt
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität, Berlin, Germany
- Thomas B. Hildebrandt
| | - Frank Göritz
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert Hermes
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Cesare Galli
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, Cremona, Italy
| | - Giovanna Lazzari
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, Cremona, Italy
| | - Silvia Colleoni
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, Cremona, Italy
| | - Ilaria Pollastri
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation, and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Maria Michela Spiriti
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation, and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Jan Stejskal
- ZOO Dvůr Králové, Dvůr Králové nad Labem, Czechia
| | - Steven Seet
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jan Zwilling
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Barbara de Mori
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation, and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
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26
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Embryo production by in vitro fertilization in wild ungulates: progress and perspectives. ANNALS OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.2478/aoas-2022-0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Wild ungulates are of fundamental importance for balancing ecosystems, as well as being the species of economic interest. Increasing concern over the accelerated population reduction of these species has resulted in the development of assisted reproduction techniques, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), as a tool for conservation and multiplication. In the present scenario, IVF protocols were developed based on the methodologies used for domestic ungulates. Nevertheless, owing to the physiological and reproductive differences among the species, several factors associated with IVF and its relationship with the characteristics of the species of interest require clarification. In vitro conditions for the collection and selection of female and male gametes, oocyte maturation, sperm capacitation, co-incubation of gametes, and embryonic development can influence IVF results. Therefore, the present review considers the main advances in the methodologies already used for wild ungulates, emphasizing the strategies for improving the protocols to obtain better efficiency rates. Additionally, we discuss the conditions of each IVF stage, with emphasis on aspects related to in vitro manipulation and comparability with the protocols for domestic ungulates.
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27
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Zywitza V, Rusha E, Shaposhnikov D, Ruiz-Orera J, Telugu N, Rishko V, Hayashi M, Michel G, Wittler L, Stejskal J, Holtze S, Göritz F, Hermes R, Wang J, Izsvák Z, Colleoni S, Lazzari G, Galli C, Hildebrandt TB, Hayashi K, Diecke S, Drukker M. Naïve-like pluripotency to pave the way for saving the northern white rhinoceros from extinction. Sci Rep 2022; 12:3100. [PMID: 35260583 PMCID: PMC8904600 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-07059-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The northern white rhinoceros (NWR) is probably the earth's most endangered mammal. To rescue the functionally extinct species, we aim to employ induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to generate gametes and subsequently embryos in vitro. To elucidate the regulation of pluripotency and differentiation of NWR PSCs, we generated iPSCs from a deceased NWR female using episomal reprogramming, and observed surprising similarities to human PSCs. NWR iPSCs exhibit a broad differentiation potency into the three germ layers and trophoblast, and acquire a naïve-like state of pluripotency, which is pivotal to differentiate PSCs into primordial germ cells (PGCs). Naïve culturing conditions induced a similar expression profile of pluripotency related genes in NWR iPSCs and human ESCs. Furthermore, naïve-like NWR iPSCs displayed increased expression of naïve and PGC marker genes, and a higher integration propensity into developing mouse embryos. As the conversion process was aided by ectopic BCL2 expression, and we observed integration of reprogramming factors, the NWR iPSCs presented here are unsuitable for gamete production. However, the gained insights into the developmental potential of both primed and naïve-like NWR iPSCs are fundamental for in future PGC-specification in order to rescue the species from extinction using cryopreserved somatic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Zywitza
- Technology Platform Pluripotent Stem Cells, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), 13125, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ejona Rusha
- Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Core Facility, Helmholtz Zentrum München, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Dmitry Shaposhnikov
- Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Core Facility, Helmholtz Zentrum München, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Jorge Ruiz-Orera
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), 13125, Berlin, Germany
| | - Narasimha Telugu
- Technology Platform Pluripotent Stem Cells, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), 13125, Berlin, Germany
| | - Valentyna Rishko
- Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Core Facility, Helmholtz Zentrum München, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Masafumi Hayashi
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Geert Michel
- FEMTransgenic Technologies, Charité, 13125, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lars Wittler
- Department of Developmental Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jan Stejskal
- ZOO Dvůr Králové, Štefánikova 1029, 544 01, Dvůr Králové nad Labem, Czech Republic
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, 10315, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Göritz
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, 10315, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert Hermes
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, 10315, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jichang Wang
- Mobile DNA, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), 13125, Berlin, Germany
| | - Zsuzsanna Izsvák
- Mobile DNA, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), 13125, Berlin, Germany
| | - Silvia Colleoni
- Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, Avantea, 26100, Cremona, Italy
| | - Giovanna Lazzari
- Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, Avantea, 26100, Cremona, Italy
- Fondazione Avantea, 26100, Cremona, Italy
| | - Cesare Galli
- Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, Avantea, 26100, Cremona, Italy
- Fondazione Avantea, 26100, Cremona, Italy
| | - Thomas B Hildebrandt
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, 10315, Berlin, Germany
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katsuhiko Hayashi
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Sebastian Diecke
- Technology Platform Pluripotent Stem Cells, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association (MDC), 13125, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Micha Drukker
- Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Core Facility, Helmholtz Zentrum München, 85764, Neuherberg, Germany.
- Division of Drug Discovery and Safety, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR), Leiden University, 2300 RA, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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Sano M, Kawanabe A, Kurosawa Y, Suzuki Y, Takeda M, Nakamura T, Iwata H, Kuwayama T, Shirasuna K. A Simple Cryopreservation Method for Efficient Isolation of Live Cells from Dead Animals. MAMMAL STUDY 2022. [DOI: 10.3106/ms2021-0019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michiya Sano
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Atsugi, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
| | - Ayako Kawanabe
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Atsugi, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
| | - Yaetsu Kurosawa
- Scientific Information Program, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Setagaya, Tokyo 156-8502, Japan
| | | | | | | | - Hisataka Iwata
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Atsugi, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
| | - Takehito Kuwayama
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Atsugi, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
| | - Koumei Shirasuna
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Atsugi, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
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Lira GPO, Borges AA, Nascimento MB, Aquino LVC, Moura LFMP, Silva HVR, Ribeiro LR, Silva AR, Pereira AF. Morphological, Ultrastructural, and Immunocytochemical Characterization and Assessment of Puma ( Puma concolor Linnaeus, 1771) Cell Lines After Extended Culture and Cryopreservation. Biopreserv Biobank 2022; 20:557-566. [PMID: 35049356 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2021.0117] [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: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell lines are valuable tools to safeguard genetic material from species threatened with extinction that is mainly due to human action. In this scenario, the puma constitutes a species whose population is being rapidly reduced in the ecosystems it inhabits. For the first time, we characterized puma skin-derived cell lines and assessed these cells after extended culture (experiment 1) and cryopreservation (experiment 2). Initially, we identified and characterized four dermal fibroblast lines using morphology, ultrastructure, and immunofluorescence assays. Moreover, we evaluated the effects of culture time (1st, 3rd, and 10th passages) and cryopreservation on their morphology, ultrastructure, viability, metabolism, proliferative activity, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), and apoptosis. The cells showed a typical spindle-shaped morphology with centrally located oval nuclei. The cells were identified as fibroblasts by staining for vimentin. In vitro culture after the 1st, 3rd, and 10th passages did not alter most of the evaluated parameters. Cells in the 3rd and 10th passages showed a reduction in ROS levels (p < 0.05). The ultrastructure revealed morphological damage in the prolongments, and nuclei of cells derived from the 3rd and 10th passages. Moreover, cryopreservation resulted in a reduction in ΔΨm compared with that of noncryopreserved cells, suggesting that the optimization of cryopreservation methods for puma fibroblasts is essential. In conclusion, we found that viable fibroblasts could be obtained from puma skin, with slight changes after the 10th passage in in vitro culture and cryopreservation. This is the first report on the development of cell lines derived from pumas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela P O Lira
- Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid (UFERSA), Mossoró, Brazil
| | - Alana A Borges
- Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid (UFERSA), Mossoró, Brazil
| | - Matheus B Nascimento
- Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid (UFERSA), Mossoró, Brazil
| | - Leonardo V C Aquino
- Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid (UFERSA), Mossoró, Brazil
| | - Luiz F M P Moura
- Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid (UFERSA), Mossoró, Brazil
| | - Herlon V R Silva
- Laboratory of Reproduction of Carnivores, Ceara State University (UECE), Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Leandro R Ribeiro
- Laboratory of Reproduction of Carnivores, Ceara State University (UECE), Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Alexandre R Silva
- Laboratory of Animal Germplasm Conservation, UFERSA, Mossoró, Brazil
| | - Alexsandra F Pereira
- Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Federal Rural University of Semi-Arid (UFERSA), Mossoró, Brazil
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30
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Wang DH, Wu XM, Chen JS, Cai ZG, An JH, Zhang MY, Li Y, Li FP, Hou R, Liu YL. Isolation and characterization mesenchymal stem cells from red panda ( Ailurus fulgens styani) endometrium. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 10:coac004. [PMID: 35211318 PMCID: PMC8862722 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coac004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (eMSCs) are undifferentiated endometrial cells with self-renewal, multidirectional differentiation and high proliferation potential. Nowadays, eMSCs have been found in a few species, but it has never been reported in endangered wild animals, especially the red panda. In this study, we successfully isolated and characterized the eMSCs derived from red panda. Red panda eMSCs were fibroblast-like, had a strong proliferative potential and a stable chromosome number. Pluripotency genes including Klf4, Sox2 and Thy1 were highly expressed in eMSCs. Besides, cultured eMSCs were positive for MSC markers CD44, CD49f and CD105 and negative for endothelial cell marker CD31 and haematopoietic cell marker CD34. Moreover, no reference RNA-seq was used to analyse the eMSCs transcriptional expression profile and key pathways. Compared with skin fibroblast cell group, 9104 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, among which are 5034 genes upregulated, 4070 genes downregulated and the top 20 enrichment pathways of DEGs in Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes Genomes (KEGG) mainly associated with G-protein coupled receptor signalling pathway, carbohydrate derivative binding, nucleoside binding, ribosome biogenesis, cell cycle, DNA replication, Ras signalling pathway and purine metabolism. Among the DEGs, some representative genes about promoting MSCs differentiation and proliferation were upregulated and promoting fibroblasts proliferation were downregulated in eMSCs group. Red panda eMSCs also had multiple differentiation ability and could differentiate into adipocytes, chondrocytes and hepatocytes. In conclusion, we, for the first time, isolated and characterized the red panda eMSCs with ability of multiplication and multilineage differentiation in vitro. The new multipotential stem cell could be beneficial not only for the germ plasm resources conservation of red panda, but also for basic or pre-clinical studies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Hui Wang
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered Wildlife, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Academy of Giant Panda, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Xue-Mei Wu
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered Wildlife, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jia-Song Chen
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered Wildlife, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Academy of Giant Panda, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Zhi-Gang Cai
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered Wildlife, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Academy of Giant Panda, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Jun-Hui An
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered Wildlife, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Academy of Giant Panda, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Ming-Yue Zhang
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered Wildlife, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Academy of Giant Panda, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered Wildlife, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Fei-Ping Li
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered Wildlife, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Academy of Giant Panda, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Rong Hou
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered Wildlife, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Academy of Giant Panda, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yu-Liang Liu
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Key Laboratory of Conservation Biology for Endangered Wildlife, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
- Sichuan Academy of Giant Panda, 1375 Panda Road, Northern Suburb, Chengdu, 610081, Sichuan Province, China
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31
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Abstract
[Figure: see text].
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitinori Saitou
- Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (WPI-ASHBi), Kyoto University, Yoshida-Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan.,Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Katsuhiko Hayashi
- Department of Developmental Stem Cell Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan.,Department of Germline Genetics, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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32
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Sánchez-Barreiro F, Gopalakrishnan S, Ramos-Madrigal J, Westbury MV, de Manuel M, Margaryan A, Ciucani MM, Vieira FG, Patramanis Y, Kalthoff DC, Timmons Z, Sicheritz-Pontén T, Dalén L, Ryder OA, Zhang G, Marquès-Bonet T, Moodley Y, Gilbert MTP. Historical population declines prompted significant genomic erosion in the northern and southern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum). Mol Ecol 2021; 30:6355-6369. [PMID: 34176179 PMCID: PMC9291831 DOI: 10.1111/mec.16043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Large vertebrates are extremely sensitive to anthropogenic pressure, and their populations are declining fast. The white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) is a paradigmatic case: this African megaherbivore has suffered a remarkable decline in the last 150 years due to human activities. Its subspecies, the northern (NWR) and the southern white rhinoceros (SWR), however, underwent opposite fates: the NWR vanished quickly, while the SWR recovered after the severe decline. Such demographic events are predicted to have an erosive effect at the genomic level, linked to the extirpation of diversity, and increased genetic drift and inbreeding. However, there is little empirical data available to directly reconstruct the subtleties of such processes in light of distinct demographic histories. Therefore, we generated a whole-genome, temporal data set consisting of 52 resequenced white rhinoceros genomes, representing both subspecies at two time windows: before and during/after the bottleneck. Our data reveal previously unknown population structure within both subspecies, as well as quantifiable genomic erosion. Genome-wide heterozygosity decreased significantly by 10% in the NWR and 36% in the SWR, and inbreeding coefficients rose significantly by 11% and 39%, respectively. Despite the remarkable loss of genomic diversity and recent inbreeding it suffered, the only surviving subspecies, the SWR, does not show a significant accumulation of genetic load compared to its historical counterpart. Our data provide empirical support for predictions about the genomic consequences of shrinking populations, and our findings have the potential to inform the conservation efforts of the remaining white rhinoceroses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shyam Gopalakrishnan
- GLOBE Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,DTU Bioinformatics, Kongens Lyngby, Hovedstaden, Denmark.,Center for Evolutionary Hologenomics, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - Marc de Manuel
- Institut de Biologia Evolutiva (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-Universitat Pompeu Fabra), Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ashot Margaryan
- GLOBE Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Center for Evolutionary Hologenomics, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marta M Ciucani
- GLOBE Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Filipe G Vieira
- GLOBE Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Daniela C Kalthoff
- Department of Zoology, Swedish Museum of Natural History, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Zena Timmons
- Department of Natural Sciences, National Museums Scotland, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Thomas Sicheritz-Pontén
- GLOBE Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Centre of Excellence for Omics-Driven Computational Biodiscovery (COMBio), Faculty of Applied Sciences, AIMST University, Kedah, Malaysia
| | - Love Dalén
- Centre for Palaeogenetics, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Bioinformatics and Genetics, Swedish Museum of Natural History, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Oliver A Ryder
- San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research, Escondido, CA, USA
| | - Guojie Zhang
- Section for Ecology and Evolution, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.,Center for Excellence in Animal Evolution and Genetics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.,BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Tomás Marquès-Bonet
- Institut de Biologia Evolutiva (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-Universitat Pompeu Fabra), Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, Barcelona, Spain.,National Centre for Genomic Analysis-Centre for Genomic Regulation, Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain.,Institucio Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Yoshan Moodley
- Department of Zoology, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, South Africa
| | - M Thomas P Gilbert
- GLOBE Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Center for Evolutionary Hologenomics, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Norwegian University of Science and Technology, University Museum, Trondheim, Norway
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33
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Alberio R, Wolf E. 25th ANNIVERSARY OF CLONING BY SOMATIC-CELL NUCLEAR TRANSFER: Nuclear transfer and the development of genetically modified/gene edited livestock. Reproduction 2021; 162:F59-F68. [PMID: 34096507 PMCID: PMC8240728 DOI: 10.1530/rep-21-0078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The birth and adult development of 'Dolly' the sheep, the first mammal produced by the transfer of a terminally differentiated cell nucleus into an egg, provided unequivocal evidence of nuclear equivalence among somatic cells. This ground-breaking experiment challenged a long-standing dogma of irreversible cellular differentiation that prevailed for over a century and enabled the development of methodologies for reversal of differentiation of somatic cells, also known as nuclear reprogramming. Thanks to this new paradigm, novel alternatives for regenerative medicine in humans, improved animal breeding in domestic animals and approaches to species conservation through reproductive methodologies have emerged. Combined with the incorporation of new tools for genetic modification, these novel techniques promise to (i) transform and accelerate our understanding of genetic diseases and the development of targeted therapies through creation of tailored animal models, (ii) provide safe animal cells, tissues and organs for xenotransplantation, (iii) contribute to the preservation of endangered species, and (iv) improve global food security whilst reducing the environmental impact of animal production. This review discusses recent advances that build on the conceptual legacy of nuclear transfer and – when combined with gene editing – will have transformative potential for medicine, biodiversity and sustainable agriculture. We conclude that the potential of these technologies depends on further fundamental and translational research directed at improving the efficiency and safety of these methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramiro Alberio
- School of Biosciences University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Eckhard Wolf
- Gene Center and Department of Veterinary Sciences, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
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34
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The ART of bringing extinction to a freeze - History and future of species conservation, exemplified by rhinos. Theriogenology 2021; 169:76-88. [PMID: 33940218 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The ongoing mass extinction of animal species at an unprecedented rate is largely caused by human activities. Progressive habitat destruction and fragmentation is resulting in accelerated loss of biodiversity on a global scale. Over decades, captive breeding programs of non-domestic species were characterized by efforts to optimize species-specific husbandry, to increase studbook-based animal exchange, and to improve enclosure designs. To counter the ongoing dramatic loss of biodiversity, new approaches are warranted. Recently, new ideas, particularly the application of assisted reproduction technologies (ART), have been incorporated into classical zoo breeding programs. These technologies include semen and oocyte collection, artificial insemination, and in-vitro embryo generation. More futuristic ideas of advanced ART (aART) implement recent advances in biotechnology and stem-cell related approaches such as cloning, inner cell mass transfer (ICM), and the stem-cell-associated techniques (SCAT) for the generation of gametes and ultimately embryos of highly endangered species, such as the northern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum cottoni) of which only two female individuals are left. Both, ART and aART greatly depend on and benefit from the rapidly evolving cryopreservation techniques and biobanking not only of genetic, but also of viable cellular materials suitable for the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC). The availability of cryopreserved materials bridges gaps in time and space, thereby optimizing the available genetic variability and enhancing the chance to restore viable populations.
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35
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Korody ML, Ford SM, Nguyen TD, Pivaroff CG, Valiente-Alandi I, Peterson SE, Ryder OA, Loring JF. Rewinding Extinction in the Northern White Rhinoceros: Genetically Diverse Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Bank for Genetic Rescue. Stem Cells Dev 2021; 30:177-189. [PMID: 33406994 PMCID: PMC7891310 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2021.0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Extinction rates are rising, and current conservation technologies may not be adequate for reducing species losses. Future conservation efforts may be aided by the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from highly endangered species. Generation of a set of iPSCs from multiple members of a species can capture some of the dwindling genetic diversity of a disappearing species. We generated iPSCs from fibroblasts cryopreserved in the Frozen Zoo®: nine genetically diverse individuals of the functionally extinct northern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum cottoni) and two from the closely related southern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum). We used a nonintegrating Sendai virus reprogramming method and developed analyses to confirm the cells' pluripotency and differentiation potential. This work is the first step of a long-term interdisciplinary plan to apply assisted reproduction techniques to the conservation of this highly endangered species. Advances in iPSC differentiation may enable generation of gametes in vitro from deceased and nonreproductive individuals that could be used to repopulate the species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa L Korody
- San Diego Zoo Global, Beckman Center for Conservation Research, Escondido, California, USA.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Sarah M Ford
- San Diego Zoo Global, Beckman Center for Conservation Research, Escondido, California, USA
| | - Thomas D Nguyen
- San Diego Zoo Global, Beckman Center for Conservation Research, Escondido, California, USA.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Cullen G Pivaroff
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Iñigo Valiente-Alandi
- San Diego Zoo Global, Beckman Center for Conservation Research, Escondido, California, USA
| | - Suzanne E Peterson
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Oliver A Ryder
- San Diego Zoo Global, Beckman Center for Conservation Research, Escondido, California, USA
| | - Jeanne F Loring
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research, La Jolla, California, USA
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36
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de Mori B, Spiriti MM, Pollastri I, Normando S, Biasetti P, Florio D, Andreucci F, Colleoni S, Galli C, Göritz F, Hermes R, Holtze S, Lazzari G, Seet S, Zwilling J, Stejskal J, Mutisya S, Ndeereh D, Ngulu S, Vigne R, Hildebrandt TB. An Ethical Assessment Tool (ETHAS) to Evaluate the Application of Assisted Reproductive Technologies in Mammals' Conservation: The Case of the Northern White Rhinoceros ( Ceratotherium simum cottoni). Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:312. [PMID: 33530613 PMCID: PMC7911958 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) can make a difference in biodiversity conservation. Their application, however, can create risks and raise ethical issues that need addressing. Unfortunately, there is a lack of attention to the topic in the scientific literature and, to our knowledge, there is no tool for the ethical assessment of ARTs in the context of conservation that has been described. This paper reports the first applications of the Ethical Assessment Tool (ETHAS) to trans-rectal ovum pick-up (OPU) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures used in a northern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum cottoni) conservation project. The ETHAS consists of two checklists, the Ethical Evaluation Sheet and the Ethical Risk Assessment, and is specifically customized for each ART procedure. It provides an integrated, multilevel and standardized self-assessment of the procedure under scrutiny, generating an ethical acceptability ranking (totally, partially, not acceptable) and a risk rank (low, medium, high), and, hence, allows for implementing measures to address or manage issues beforehand. The application of the ETHAS to the procedures performed on the northern white rhinoceros was effective in ensuring a high standard of procedures, contributing to the acceptability and improved communication among the project's partners. In turn, the tool itself was also refined through an iterative consultation process between experts and stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara de Mori
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (M.M.S.); (I.P.)
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (P.B.); (D.F.); (F.A.)
| | - Maria Michela Spiriti
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (M.M.S.); (I.P.)
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (P.B.); (D.F.); (F.A.)
| | - Ilaria Pollastri
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (M.M.S.); (I.P.)
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (P.B.); (D.F.); (F.A.)
| | - Simona Normando
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (M.M.S.); (I.P.)
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (P.B.); (D.F.); (F.A.)
| | - Pierfrancesco Biasetti
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (P.B.); (D.F.); (F.A.)
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; (F.G.); (R.H.); (S.H.)
| | - Daniela Florio
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (P.B.); (D.F.); (F.A.)
- Department of Veterinary Medical Science, University of Bologna, 40064 Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesco Andreucci
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy; (P.B.); (D.F.); (F.A.)
| | - Silvia Colleoni
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, 26100 Cremona, Italy; (S.C.); (C.G.); (G.L.)
| | - Cesare Galli
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, 26100 Cremona, Italy; (S.C.); (C.G.); (G.L.)
- Avantea Foundation, 26100 Cremona, Italy
| | - Frank Göritz
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; (F.G.); (R.H.); (S.H.)
| | - Robert Hermes
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; (F.G.); (R.H.); (S.H.)
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; (F.G.); (R.H.); (S.H.)
| | - Giovanna Lazzari
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, 26100 Cremona, Italy; (S.C.); (C.G.); (G.L.)
- Avantea Foundation, 26100 Cremona, Italy
| | - Steven Seet
- Science Communication, Science Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; (S.S.); (J.Z.)
| | - Jan Zwilling
- Science Communication, Science Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; (S.S.); (J.Z.)
| | - Jan Stejskal
- ZOO Dvůr Králové, 54401 Dvůr Králové nad Labem, Czech Republic;
| | - Samuel Mutisya
- Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy, Nanyuki 10400, Kenya; (S.M.); (S.N.); (R.V.)
| | | | - Stephen Ngulu
- Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy, Nanyuki 10400, Kenya; (S.M.); (S.N.); (R.V.)
| | - Richard Vigne
- Ol Pejeta Wildlife Conservancy, Nanyuki 10400, Kenya; (S.M.); (S.N.); (R.V.)
| | - Thomas B. Hildebrandt
- Department of Reproduction Management, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; (F.G.); (R.H.); (S.H.)
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Free University of Berlin, D-14195 Berlin, Germany
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37
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Kumar D, Talluri TR, Selokar NL, Hyder I, Kues WA. Perspectives of pluripotent stem cells in livestock. World J Stem Cells 2021; 13:1-29. [PMID: 33584977 PMCID: PMC7859985 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v13.i1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent progress in derivation of pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) from farm animals opens new approaches not only for reproduction, genetic engineering, treatment and conservation of these species, but also for screening novel drugs for their efficacy and toxicity, and modelling of human diseases. Initial attempts to derive PSCs from the inner cell mass of blastocyst stages in farm animals were largely unsuccessful as either the cells survived for only a few passages, or lost their cellular potency; indicating that the protocols which allowed the derivation of murine or human embryonic stem (ES) cells were not sufficient to support the maintenance of ES cells from farm animals. This scenario changed by the innovation of induced pluripotency and by the development of the 3 inhibitor culture conditions to support naïve pluripotency in ES cells from livestock species. However, the long-term culture of livestock PSCs while maintaining the full pluripotency is still challenging, and requires further refinements. Here, we review the current achievements in the derivation of PSCs from farm animals, and discuss the potential application areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dharmendra Kumar
- Animal Physiology and Reproduction Division, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes, Hisar 125001, India.
| | - Thirumala R Talluri
- Equine Production Campus, ICAR-National Research Centre on Equines, Bikaner 334001, India
| | - Naresh L Selokar
- Animal Physiology and Reproduction Division, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes, Hisar 125001, India
| | - Iqbal Hyder
- Department of Physiology, NTR College of Veterinary Science, Gannavaram 521102, India
| | - Wilfried A Kues
- Department of Biotechnology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute, Federal Institute of Animal Health, Neustadt 31535, Germany
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38
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Hayashi K, Galli C, Diecke S, Hildebrandt TB. Artificially produced gametes in mice, humans and other species. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 33:91-101. [PMID: 38769675 DOI: 10.1071/rd20265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The production of gametes from pluripotent stem cells in culture, also known as invitro gametogenesis, will make an important contribution to reproductive biology and regenerative medicine, both as a unique tool for understanding germ cell development and as an alternative source of gametes for reproduction. Invitro gametogenesis was developed using mouse pluripotent stem cells but is increasingly being applied in other mammalian species, including humans. In principle, the entire process of germ cell development is nearly reconstitutable in culture using mouse pluripotent stem cells, although the fidelity of differentiation processes and the quality of resultant gametes remain to be refined. The methodology in the mouse system is only partially applicable to other species, and thus it must be optimised for each species. In this review, we update the current status of invitro gametogenesis in mice, humans and other animals, and discuss challenges for further development of this technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katsuhiko Hayashi
- Department of Stem Cell Biology and Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Maidashi 3-1-1, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-0054, Japan; and Corresponding author
| | - Cesare Galli
- Avantea, Laboratory of Reproductive Technologies, 26100 Cremona, Italy; and Fondazione Avantea, 26100 Cremona, Italy
| | - Sebastian Diecke
- Max-Delbrueck-Center for Molecular Medicine, 13092 Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas B Hildebrandt
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, D-10315 Berlin, Germany; and Freie Universität Berlin, D-14195 Berlin, Germany
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Miazga K, Joubert J, Sinclair M, Cywińska A. Releasing Three Orphaned White Rhinoceroses ( Ceratotherium simum) to the Game Reserve in South Africa. Rehabilitation, Translocation and Post-Release Observations. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10122224. [PMID: 33260863 PMCID: PMC7759868 DOI: 10.3390/ani10122224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
White rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) is one of the most famous victims of poachers in Africa. One of the methods for dealing with decreasing rhino numbers is rehabilitating wounded and/or orphaned animals to successfully release them back into the wild. The status of rescued animal differs among individuals, but general procedures must be established and constantly improved. This study presents the history of successful release of three orphaned white rhino females; rehabilitated for 15 months in Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre in a private game reserve in South Africa. Female A was three years old, female B was one year old and the youngest female was three months old on arrival. The animals were rehabilitated together despite the differences in their age and size, with particular attention paid to keeping them as wild as possible. After being weaned and becoming old enough to go back to the wild, they were released at a distance from the rehabilitation centre, which required immobilization and translocation. Since the rhinos were released, they have been successfully living in the wild. All procedures used in this study proved to be sufficient for preparing the animals for life in the wild and can be recommended for other centres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Miazga
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (WULS-SGGW), Nowoursynowska 159c, 02-787 Warsaw, Poland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-508-138-578
| | - Johan Joubert
- Shamwari Private Game Reserve, SPGR, Eastern Cape, Paterson 6130, South Africa; (J.J.); (M.S.)
| | - Megan Sinclair
- Shamwari Private Game Reserve, SPGR, Eastern Cape, Paterson 6130, South Africa; (J.J.); (M.S.)
| | - Anna Cywińska
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (WULS-SGGW), Nowoursynowska 159c, 02-787 Warsaw, Poland;
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Comizzoli P, Holt WV. Breakthroughs and new horizons in reproductive biology of rare and endangered animal species. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:514-525. [PMID: 30772911 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Because of higher extinction rates due to human and natural factors, more basic and applied research in reproductive biology is required to preserve wild species and design proper strategies leading to sustainable populations. The objective of the review is to highlight recent, inspiring breakthroughs in wildlife reproduction science that will set directions for future research and lead to more successes in conservation biology. Despite new tools and approaches allowing a better and faster understanding of key mechanisms, we still know little about reproduction in endangered species. Recently, the most striking advances have been obtained in nonmammalian species (fish, birds, amphibians, or corals) with the development of alternative solutions to preserve fertility or new information about parental nutritional influence on embryo development. A novel way has also been explored to consider the impact of environmental changes on reproduction-the allostatic load-in a vast array of species (from primates to fish). On the horizon, genomic tools are expected to considerably change the way we study wildlife reproduction and develop a concept of "precision conservation breeding." When basic studies in organismal physiology are conducted in parallel, new approaches using stem cells to create artificial gametes and gonads, innovations in germplasm storage, and more research on reproductive microbiomes will help to make a difference. Lastly, multiple challenges (for instance, poor integration of new tools in conservation programs, limited access to study animals, or few publication options) will have to be addressed if we want reproductive biology to positively impact conservation of biodiversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington DC, USA
| | - William V Holt
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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Pollock KE, O'Brien JK, Roth TL, Proudfoot J, Niederlander J, Micheas L, Robeck TR, Stoops MA. Anti-Müllerian hormone in managed African and Asian rhino species. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2020; 294:113487. [PMID: 32278883 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2020.113487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Serum collected across the lifespan of four managed rhino species: black (Diceros bicornis, n = 16), white (Ceratotherium simum simum, n = 19), greater one-horned (GOH, Rhinoceros unicornis, n = 11) and Sumatran (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis, n = 6) were validated and analyzed in an anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) enzyme- linked immunoassay. Concentrations of AMH were examined over time, between sexes and throughout different reproductive states which included n = 3 female white rhinos immunocontracepted with porcine zona pellucida (pZP). Across species, males produced higher AMH concentrations compared to females. Among males, AMH concentrations varied by species aside from comparable values secreted between black and white rhinos. The GOH and Sumatran rhino secreted the highest and lowest male AMH concentrations, respectively. However, within each species, AMH concentrations were similar across male age categories. Preliminary insight into male AMH changes from birth to sexual maturity suggest its potential as a marker for onset of testicular maturation. Female black, GOH and Sumatran rhinos secreted comparable AMH concentrations which were higher than those in white rhino. Within each species, inter-individual variation in AMH secretion occurred among females of similar age. While AMH secretion did not differ across the ages sampled for female white (4->26 yr) and GOH (4-26 yr) rhinos, black and Sumatran rhinos >26 and <4 yr, respectively secreted lower AMH compared to conspecific females 7-26 yr of age. Two idiopathic infertility cases corresponded to low (outside species range) AMH values. The establishment of normative AMH concentrations in managed African and Asian rhinos provides an additional metric beyond traditional sex steroids to assess gonadal function. Further work is needed to determine if AMH can predict fertility potential in rhinos.
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Affiliation(s)
- K E Pollock
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
| | - J K O'Brien
- SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Reproductive Research Center, SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, 2595 Ingraham St, San Diego, CA 92109, USA
| | - T L Roth
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
| | - J Proudfoot
- Indianapolis Zoo, 1200 W Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46222, USA
| | | | - L Micheas
- University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - T R Robeck
- SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Reproductive Research Center, SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, 2595 Ingraham St, San Diego, CA 92109, USA
| | - M A Stoops
- Center for Conservation and Research of Endangered Wildlife, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA.
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Ryder OA, Friese C, Greely HT, Sandler R, Saragusty J, Durrant BS, Redford KH. Exploring the limits of saving a subspecies: The ethics and social dynamics of restoring northern white rhinos (
Ceratotherium simum cottoni
). CONSERVATION SCIENCE AND PRACTICE 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/csp2.241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Oliver A. Ryder
- San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research Escondido California USA
| | - Carrie Friese
- Sociology DepartmentLondon School of Economics and Political Science London UK
| | | | - Ronald Sandler
- Department of Philosophy and ReligionNortheastern University Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - Joseph Saragusty
- Laboratory of Embryology. Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Campus Coste San AgostinoUniversity of Teramo Teramo Italy
| | - Barbara S. Durrant
- San Diego Zoo Institute for Conservation Research Escondido California USA
| | - Kent H. Redford
- Archipelago Consulting Portland Maine USA
- Department of Environmental StudiesUniversity of New England Biddeford Maine USA
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith University Brisbane Queensland Australia
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Abstract
Development of assisted reproductive technologies has been driven by the goals of reducing the incidence of infertility, increasing the number of offspring from genetically elite animals, facilitating genetic manipulation, aiding preservation and long-distance movement of germplasm, and generating research material. Superovulation is associated with reduced fertilization rate and alterations in endometrial function. In vitro production of embryos can have a variety of consequences. Most embryos produced in vitro are capable of establishing pregnancy and developing into healthy neonatal animals. However, in vitro production is associated with reduced ability to develop to the blastocyst stage, increased incidence of failure to establish pregnancy, placental dysfunction, and altered fetal development. Changes in the developmental program mean that some consequences of being produced in vitro can extend into adult life. Reduced competence of the embryo produced in vitro to develop to the blastocyst stage is caused largely by disruption of events during oocyte maturation and fertilization. Conditions during embryo culture can affect embryo freezability and competence to establish pregnancy after transfer. Culture conditions, including actions of embryokines, can also affect the postnatal phenotype of the resultant progeny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Hansen
- Department of Animal Sciences, D.H. Barron Reproductive and Perinatal Biology Research Program and Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32611-0910, USA;
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44
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van der Weijden VA, Ulbrich SE. Embryonic diapause in roe deer: A model to unravel embryo-maternal communication during pre-implantation development in wildlife and livestock species. Theriogenology 2020; 158:105-111. [PMID: 32947063 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.06.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
An alarming number of large mammalian species with low reproduction rates is threatened with extinction. As basic knowledge of reproductive physiology is currently lacking in many species, increasing the understanding of reproductive physiology is imperative and includes the development of novel artificial reproduction technologies. Despite the relatively comprehensive knowledge on molecular mechanisms underlying reproduction in livestock species such as cattle, pregnancy failures are likewise far from understood. Contrary to other wildlife species, the European roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) displays a remarkably high pregnancy rate. In parts, cattle and roe deer exhibit comparable features of preimplantation embryo development. Therefore, understanding the high fertility rate in the roe deer holds a great potential for cross-species knowledge gain. As the only known species among the artiodactylae, the roe deer displays a long period of embryonic diapause. The preimplantation blastocyst reaches a diameter of 1 mm only at around 4 months compared to around 13 days post estrus in cattle. The expanded blastocyst survives in a uterine microenvironment that contains a unique set of yet unidentified factors that allow embryonic stem cells to proliferate at low pace without impairing their developmental potential. Upon reactivation, intimate embryo-maternal communication comparable to those reported in cattle is thought to occur. In this review, current knowledge, parallels and differences of reproductive physiology in cattle and roe deer are reviewed. The roe deer is proposed as a unique model species to (1) enhance our knowledge of fertility processes, (2) define factors that support embryo survival for an extended period, (3) advance knowledge on embryonic stem cells, and (4) unravel potential implications for the development of novel strategies for artificial reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- V A van der Weijden
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Switzerland
| | - S E Ulbrich
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Switzerland.
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Saragusty J, Ajmone-Marsan P, Sampino S, Modlinski JA. Reproductive biotechnology and critically endangered species: Merging in vitro gametogenesis with inner cell mass transfer. Theriogenology 2020; 155:176-184. [PMID: 32702562 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
A fifth of mammalian species face the risk of extinction. A variety of stresses, and lack of sufficient resources and political endorsement, mean thousands of further extinctions in the coming years. Once a species has declined to a mere few individuals, in situ efforts seem insufficient to prevent its extinction. Here we propose a roadmap to overcome some of the current roadblocks and facilitate rejuvenation of such critically endangered species. We suggest combining two advanced assisted reproductive technologies to accomplish this task. The first is the generation of gametes from induced pluripotent stem cells, already demonstrated in mice. The second is to 'trick' the immunological system of abundant species' surrogate mothers into believing it carries conceptus of its own species. This can be achieved by transferring the inner cell mass (ICM) of the endangered species into a trophoblastic vesicle derived from the foster mother's species. Such synthesis of reproductive biotechnologies, in association with in situ habitat conservation and societal changes, holds the potential to restore diversity and accelerate the production of animals in the most endangered species on Earth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Saragusty
- Laboratory of Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy.
| | - Paolo Ajmone-Marsan
- Department of Animal Science, Food and Nutrition - DIANA, Nutrigenomics and Proteomics Research Center - PRONUTRIGEN, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Silvestre Sampino
- Department of Experimental Embryology, Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Jastrzębiec, Poland
| | - Jacek A Modlinski
- Department of Experimental Embryology, Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Jastrzębiec, Poland
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46
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Herrick JR. Assisted reproductive technologies for endangered species conservation: developing sophisticated protocols with limited access to animals with unique reproductive mechanisms. Biol Reprod 2020; 100:1158-1170. [PMID: 30770538 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) have been proposed as a means of overcoming the significant challenges of managing small, isolated populations of endangered species in zoos. However, efficient protocols for ARTs do not exist for most endangered species. This review will focus on research efforts to characterize unique reproductive mechanisms and develop species-specific ARTs. Central to these studies are assays to measure steroid metabolites in urine or feces and/or training programs to allow unrestrained blood collections and ultrasound evaluations. The resulting information about estrous cycle dynamics, combined with studies of semen collection and processing, provides the foundation for the development of artificial insemination (AI). In vitro fertilization and embryo transfer are also discussed in relation to the advantages these techniques could provide relative to AI, as well as the significant challenges involved with technologies that require oocytes and embryos. Finally, an argument is made for additional research of nontraditional model species (e.g., domestic cats and dogs) and the development of novel models representing unique taxa. Whether these species are studied by zoo-based researchers with the expressed intent of developing ARTs for conservation or academic scientists interested in basic biology, the resulting information will provide a unique, evolutionary perspective on reproduction that could have wide-reaching benefits. The more information we have available, the better our chances will be of developing effective ARTs and making a difference in conservation efforts for endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason R Herrick
- Department of Reproductive Sciences, Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, 3701 S. 10th St., Omaha, NE 68107, USA
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47
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Casetta E. Making sense of nature conservation after the end of nature. HISTORY AND PHILOSOPHY OF THE LIFE SCIENCES 2020; 42:18. [PMID: 32356016 DOI: 10.1007/s40656-020-00312-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The concept of nature in Western thought has been informed by the assumption of a categorical distinction between natural and artificial entities, which goes back to John Stuart Mill or even Aristotle. Such a way of articulating the natural/artificial distinction has proven unfit for conservation purposes mainly because of the extent and the pervasiveness of human activities that would leave no nature left to be conserved, and alternative views have been advanced. In this contribution, after arguing for the importance of the concept of naturalness as a guide for conservation, I will try to provide an account of the natural/artificial distinction suited to contemporary conservation framing. Focusing on a particular kind of objects that I suggest to name "environmental objects", I propose and defend the view of "naturalness as independence" according to which the more or less an environmental object's identity conditions and survival depend on human intervention, the more or less that object is artificial or natural, respectively. According to this view, conserving environmental objects will equate to maintaining or improving their naturalness (vis-à-vis their artefactualness) or even originating artificial objects that may become new natural objects. This view has the advantage, on the one hand, of providing a rationale for a distinction which is not only part of how people think, but also pervasive in conservation practices and policies and, on the other hand, of accounting for the global pervasiveness of human intervention in the so-called natural world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Casetta
- Department of Philosophy and Education, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
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48
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Al-Ghadi MQ, Alhimaidi AR, Iwamoto D, Al-Mutary MG, Ammari AA, Saeki KO, Aleissa MS. The in vitro development of cloned sheep embryos treated with Scriptaid and Trichostatin (A). Saudi J Biol Sci 2020; 27:2280-2286. [PMID: 32884408 PMCID: PMC7451688 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2020.04.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Revised: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Although, it has been success in the generation of animal clones from somatic cells in various animal species, the information related to nuclear reprogramming of cloned embryos is found to be limited. This study aims to compares the effect of both Scriptaid (SCR) and Trichostatin (A) treatments in improving cloning efficiency, and embryos developmental rate of cloned sheep embryos in vitro. Three groups were formed, i.e., one SCR group, second TSA group, with both treatment concentrations of 5 nM, 50 nM, and 500 nM, respectively, and third were control group with 0 nM. Methods: Ovaries of slaughtered sheep were collected and oocytes were recovered from antral follicles using aspiration method and in vitro maturation of oocytes were done. Then zona dissecting with micropipettes and oocyte enucleation were carried out under the micromanipulator. Later nuclear transfer, cell fusion and activation were done via cell fusion machine. Finally the embryo cultured in incubating chamber at the CO2 incubator up to 9 days. The result: In general the results showed that when the concentration increases the cleavage rate increased. The cleavage rates of the SCNT embryos treated with SCR at different concentrations are closely related to cleavage rate of embryos treated with TSA at same concentration; such as 39.47% for 500 nM TSA, 38.09% for 500 nM SCR; 18.6% for 50 nM TSA, 19.17% for 50 nM SCR, and 22.64% for 5 nM TSA, 17.18% for 5 nM SCR. As for the control group, the cleavage rate of the SCNT embryos cleavage ratewere27.47%., 30% and 30.85% respectively for bothtreatments. While there is a significant difference in TSA treatments at an eight-cell stage at the concentration (5 and 50 nM TSA) compared to the all other cleavage cell stages of (500 nM TSA and control). Also their were a differences between (50 nM of TSA) compared to the (50 nM SCR). Also there were a significant differences between the 16 cell stage at the (500 nM TSA) compared to other treatment (5 nM, 50 nM TSA and control). Regarding the SCR there were a significant difference at 8 cell stage between (5 nM SCR), compared to the other treatment (50 nM, 500 nM SCR and control). Also there were a significant difference at 16 cell stage between (50 nM, and 500 nM SCR), compared to the other treatment (5 nM SCR and control). While in the development of the embryos reach to blastocyst stage the SCR and the control group show a higher rate, in compered to TSA that did not show any development to blastocyst stage. The total SCR treatment showed (3/41 = 7.31%), and the total control showed (4/89 = 4.49%) blastula stage. It concludes that SCR improve the final development blastula stage compared to the TSA treatments that did not improved embryos reach to final developmental blastula stages may be due to spices differences or to the toxicity of TSA, especially at higher concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muath Q Al-Ghadi
- King Saud University, College of Science, Zoology Dept. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmad R Alhimaidi
- King Saud University, College of Science, Zoology Dept. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Daisaku Iwamoto
- Kindai University Faculty of Biological -Oriented Sci. and Technology Dept. of Genetic Engineering. Wakayama, Japan
| | - Mohsen G Al-Mutary
- University of Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal, Basic Sciences Dept. Dammam, Saudi Arabia.,Basic and Applied Scientific Research Center, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Fisal University, P.O. Box 1982, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aiman A Ammari
- King Saud University, College of Science, Zoology Dept. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Medicine, Thamar University, Yemen
| | - Kazuhiro O Saeki
- Kindai University Faculty of Biological -Oriented Sci. and Technology Dept. of Genetic Engineering. Wakayama, Japan
| | - Mohammed S Aleissa
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Immam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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49
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Mostajo-Radji MA, Schmitz MT, Montoya ST, Pollen AA. Reverse engineering human brain evolution using organoid models. Brain Res 2020; 1729:146582. [PMID: 31809699 PMCID: PMC7058376 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2019.146582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Primate brains vary dramatically in size and organization, but the genetic and developmental basis for these differences has been difficult to study due to lack of experimental models. Pluripotent stem cells and brain organoids provide a potential opportunity for comparative and functional studies of evolutionary differences, particularly during the early stages of neurogenesis. However, many challenges remain, including isolating stem cell lines from additional great ape individuals and species to capture the breadth of ape genetic diversity, improving the reproducibility of organoid models to study evolved differences in cell composition and combining multiple brain regions to capture connectivity relationships. Here, we describe strategies for identifying evolved developmental differences between humans and non-human primates and for isolating the underlying cellular and genetic mechanisms using comparative analyses, chimeric organoid culture, and genome engineering. In particular, we focus on how organoid models could ultimately be applied beyond studies of progenitor cell evolution to decode the origin of recent changes in cellular organization, connectivity patterns, myelination, synaptic development, and physiology that have been implicated in human cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed A Mostajo-Radji
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; The Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Matthew T Schmitz
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; The Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Sebastian Torres Montoya
- Health Co-creation Laboratory, Medellin General Hospital, Medellin, Antioquia, Colombia; Baskin School of Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Alex A Pollen
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; The Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.
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50
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Soley JT, du Plessis L. Ultra-imaging in applied animal andrology: The power and the beauty. Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 220:106306. [PMID: 32085922 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2020.106306] [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] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Ultrastructural studies of the male gamete provide relevant complementary data of value for the clinical assessment of semen quality and assist in determining phylogenetic and structural/functional relationships. This is illustrated using semen samples and testicular material from vulnerable wild animals (cheetah and rhinoceros), commercially exploited exotic birds (ratites and tinamou) and poultry (chicken and duck). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was employed to record sperm and spermatid ultrastructural detail on a comparative basis. The power of the technique was demonstrated using normal and abnormal (the knobbed acrosome defect) formation of the acrosome in the cheetah and rhinoceros. The structural similarities of the defect across species was apparent. The determination of phylogenetic associations was illustrated by comparing structural characteristics between ratites (ostrich, emu and rhea), the tinamou and poultry (chicken and duck), highlighting the morphological peculiarities evident in the midpiece and proximal principal piece of the sperm tail. A clear distinction was obvious between the ratites and tinamou on the one hand and the Galliform and Anseriform birds on the other. The potential power of using molecular techniques in conjunction with ultrastructural studies to explain structural/functional relationships was demonstrated by describing a transient elaboration of the perinuclear theca that occurs during a specific stage of spermiogenesis in ratites, and which can only be imaged using TEM. The inherent aesthetic appeal of the structurally complex normal and defective male gamete was also emphasised.
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Affiliation(s)
- John T Soley
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa.
| | - Lizette du Plessis
- Electron Microscope Unit, Department of Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa
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