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Zaninović L, Bašković M, Ježek D, Habek D, Pogorelić Z, Katušić Bojanac A, Elveđi Gašparović V, Škrgatić L. Enhancement of Vascularization and Ovarian Follicle Survival Using Stem Cells in Cryopreserved Ovarian Tissue Transplantation-A Systematic Review. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:342. [PMID: 38785824 PMCID: PMC11117700 DOI: 10.3390/biology13050342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
The increase in cancer survival rates has put a focus on ensuring fertility preservation procedures for cancer patients. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation presents the only option for prepubertal girls and patients who require immediate start of treatment and, therefore, cannot undergo controlled ovarian stimulation. We aimed to provide an assessment of stem cells' impact on cryopreserved ovarian tissue grafts in regard to the expression of growth factors, angiogenesis promotion, tissue oxygenation, ovarian follicle survival and restoration of endocrine function. For this systematic review, we searched the Scopus and PubMed databases and included reports of trials using murine and/or human cryopreserved ovarian tissue for transplantation or in vitro culture in combination with mesenchymal stem cell administration to the grafting site. Of the 1201 articles identified, 10 met the criteria. The application of stem cells to the grafting site has been proven to support vascular promotion and thereby shorten the period of tissue hypoxia, which is reflected in the increased number of remaining viable follicles and faster recovery of ovarian endocrine function. Further research is needed before implementing the use of stem cells in OT cryopreservation and transplantation procedures in clinical practice. Complex ethical dilemmas make this process more difficult.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Zaninović
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Petrova ulica 13, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marko Bašković
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children’s Hospital Zagreb, Ulica Vjekoslava Klaića 16, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Croatian Academy of Medical Sciences, Kaptol 15, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Davor Ježek
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Transfusion Medicine and Transplantation Biology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Kišpatićeva ulica 12, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Dubravko Habek
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Croatian Academy of Medical Sciences, Kaptol 15, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Hospital Merkur, Zajčeva ulica 19, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
- School of Medicine, Catholic University of Croatia, Ilica 242, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Zenon Pogorelić
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Hospital of Split, Spinčićeva ulica 1, 21 000 Split, Croatia;
- School of Medicine, University of Split, Šoltanska ulica 2a, 21 000 Split, Croatia
| | - Ana Katušić Bojanac
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vesna Elveđi Gašparović
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Petrova ulica 13, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lana Škrgatić
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Petrova ulica 13, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Šalata 3, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia
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Ying H, Shi L, Zhang S. Research progress on mechanism of follicle injury after frozen ovarian tissue transplantation and protective strategies. Zhejiang Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban 2024:1-11. [PMID: 38562041 DOI: 10.3724/zdxbyxb-2023-0566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
The iatrogenic ovarian dysfunction caused by cancer treatment have been increasing, along with the age at onset of malignant tumors getting younger, the survival of cancer patients being longer, as well as the delayed childbearing age for females; therefore it becomes a major clinical challenge to preserve the fertility of these patients. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation is the only solution for female cancer patients in prepubertal ages and those who cannot delay gonadotoxic therapy. However, the successful rate of cryopreservation and transplantation of ovarian tissue is still low at present due to the risk of ischemia and hypoxia of grafted tissues. Abnormal activation of primordial follicle and ischemia-reperfusion injury after blood supply recovery also cause massive loss of follicles in grafted ovarian tissues. It has been tried in various studies to reduce the damage of follicles during freezing and transplantation by adding certain drugs, and extend the duration of endocrine and reproductive function in patients with ovarian transplantation. For example, melatonin, N-acetylcysteine, erythropoietin or other antioxidants are used to reduce oxidative stress; mesenchymal stem cells derived from different tissues, basic fibroblast growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, angiopoietin 2 and gonadotropin are used to promote revascularization; anti-Müllerian hormone and rapamycin are used to reduce abnormal activation of primordial follicles. This article reviews the research progress on the main mechanisms of follicle loss after ovarian tissue transplantation, including hypoxia, ischemia-reperfusion injury and associated cell death, and abnormal activation of follicles; and explores the methods of reducing graft follicle loss to provide reference for improving the efficiency of ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanqi Ying
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of , Hangzhou 310000, China.
| | - Libing Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of , Hangzhou 310000, China
| | - Songying Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of , Hangzhou 310000, China.
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Canosa S, Revelli A, Gennarelli G, Cormio G, Loizzi V, Arezzo F, Petracca EA, Carosso AR, Cimadomo D, Rienzi L, Vaiarelli A, Ubaldi FM, Silvestris E. Innovative Strategies for Fertility Preservation in Female Cancer Survivors: New Hope from Artificial Ovary Construction and Stem Cell-Derived Neo-Folliculogenesis. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2748. [PMID: 37893822 PMCID: PMC10606281 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11202748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in anticancer treatment have significantly improved the survival rate of young females; unfortunately, in about one third of cancer survivors the risk of ovarian insufficiency and infertility is still quite relevant. As the possibility of becoming a mother after recovery from a juvenile cancer is an important part of the quality of life, several procedures to preserve fertility have been developed: ovarian surgical transposition, induction of ovarian quiescence by gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRH-a) treatment, and oocyte and/or ovarian cortical tissue cryopreservation. Ovarian tissue cryostorage and allografting is a valuable technique that applies even to prepubertal girls; however, some patients cannot benefit from it due to the high risk of reintroducing cancer cells during allograft in cases of ovary-metastasizing neoplasias, such as leukemias or NH lymphomas. Innovative techniques are now under investigation, as in the construction of an artificial ovary made of isolated follicles inserted into an artificial matrix scaffold, and the use of stem cells, including ovarian stem cells (OSCs), to obtain neo-folliculogenesis and the development of fertilizable oocytes from the exhausted ovarian tissue. This review synthesizes and discusses these innovative techniques, which potentially represent interesting strategies in oncofertility programs and a new hope for young female cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Canosa
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.)
| | - Alberto Revelli
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.)
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 2U, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Gianluca Gennarelli
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.)
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Gennaro Cormio
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Vera Loizzi
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Francesca Arezzo
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Easter Anna Petracca
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
| | - Andrea Roberto Carosso
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Danilo Cimadomo
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
| | - Laura Rienzi
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Alberto Vaiarelli
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
| | - Filippo Maria Ubaldi
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
| | - Erica Silvestris
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
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Chang CL. Facilitation of Ovarian Response by Mechanical Force-Latest Insight on Fertility Improvement in Women with Poor Ovarian Response or Primary Ovarian Insufficiency. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14751. [PMID: 37834198 PMCID: PMC10573075 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The decline in fertility in aging women, especially those with poor ovarian response (POR) or primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), is a major concern for modern IVF centers. Fertility treatments have traditionally relied on gonadotropin- and steroid-hormone-based IVF practices, but these methods have limitations, especially for women with aging ovaries. Researchers have been motivated to explore alternative approaches. Ovarian aging is a complicated process, and the deterioration of oocytes, follicular cells, the extracellular matrix (ECM), and the stromal compartment can all contribute to declining fertility. Adjunct interventions that involve the use of hormones, steroids, and cofactors and gamete engineering are two major research areas aimed to improve fertility in aging women. Additionally, mechanical procedures including the In Vitro Activation (IVA) procedure, which combines pharmacological activators and fragmentation of ovarian strips, and the Whole Ovary Laparoscopic Incision (WOLI) procedure that solely relies on mechanical manipulation in vivo have shown promising results in improving follicle growth and fertility in women with POR and POI. Advances in the use of mechanical procedures have brought exciting opportunities to improve fertility outcomes in aging women with POR or POI. While the lack of a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms that lead to fertility decline in aging women remains a major challenge for further improvement of mechanical-manipulation-based approaches, recent progress has provided a better view of how these procedures promote folliculogenesis in the fibrotic and avascular aging ovaries. In this review, we first provide a brief overview of the potential mechanisms that contribute to ovarian aging in POI and POR patients, followed by a discussion of measures that aim to improve ovarian folliculogenesis in aging women. At last, we discuss the likely mechanisms that contribute to the outcomes of IVA and WOLI procedures and potential future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia Lin Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung University, Guishan, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
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Celik S, Ozkavukcu S, Celik-Ozenci C. Recombinant anti-Mullerian hormone treatment attenuates primordial follicle loss after ovarian cryopreservation and transplantation. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:1117-1134. [PMID: 36856968 PMCID: PMC10239422 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02754-7] [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: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The foremost drawback of ovarian tissue cryopreservation and re-transplantation (OTCT) technique is the rapid loss of the primordial follicle (PF) pool. In recent studies, we have demonstrated that post-transplantation burnout of the PFs occurs due to the altered expression of the activatory and inhibitory proteins that control PF reserve, and rapamycin prevented it. METHODS Here, we investigated whether anti-Mullerian hormone administration in the bilateral oophorectomy and transplantation group and internal AMH in the unilateral oophorectomy and transplantation group protect follicle reserve by regulating the expression of the molecules that control follicle growth after OTCT in mice. RESULTS After 14 days of OTCT, PF reserve is significantly reduced in both unilateral oophorectomy and transplantation and bilateral oophorectomy and transplantation groups, while anti-Mullerian hormone treatment attenuates PF loss after bilateral oophorectomy and transplantation. The expression of KitL, Bmp-15, and p27 decreased after unilateral oophorectomy and transplantation and bilateral oophorectomy and transplantation, yet recombinant anti-Mullerian hormone treatment did not restore the expression of these proteins in the BLO-T group. CONCLUSION Exogenous recombinant anti-Mullerian hormone administration in the BLO-T group preserved the expressions of Tsc1 and Gdf-9 in PF and p-s6k and Gdf-9 in growing follicles after OTCT. Nonetheless, recombinant anti-Mullerian hormone administration did not affect granulosa cell proliferation and death rates in the growing follicles. These findings suggest a novel hormonal replacement strategy for fertility preservation by restoring anti-Mullerian hormone to regulate Tsc1 and p-s6k, thereby linking this hormone with the mTOR pathway and Gdf-9 signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soner Celik
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Akdeniz University, 07070, Antalya, Turkey
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Sinan Ozkavukcu
- School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Assisted Conception Unit, DD2 1SG, Dundee, Scotland
| | - Ciler Celik-Ozenci
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Koc University Medical Faculty, Koc University, Rumelifeneri Yolu 34450, Sariyer, Istanbul, Turkey.
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey.
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6
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Guahmich NL, Man L, Wang J, Arazi L, Kallinos E, Topper-Kroog A, Grullon G, Zhang K, Stewart J, Schatz-Siemers N, Jones SH, Bodine R, Zaninovic N, Schattman G, Rosenwaks Z, James D. Human theca arises from ovarian stroma and is comprised of three discrete subtypes. Commun Biol 2023; 6:7. [PMID: 36599970 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-04384-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Theca cells serve multiple essential functions during the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles, providing structural, metabolic, and steroidogenic support. While the function of theca during folliculogenesis is well established, their cellular origins and the differentiation hierarchy that generates distinct theca sub-types, remain unknown. Here, we performed single cell multi-omics analysis of primary cell populations purified from human antral stage follicles (1-3 mm) to define the differentiation trajectory of theca/stroma cells. We then corroborated the temporal emergence and growth kinetics of defined theca/stroma subpopulations using human ovarian tissue samples and xenografts of cryopreserved/thawed ovarian cortex, respectively. We identified three lineage specific derivatives termed structural, androgenic, and perifollicular theca cells, as well as their putative lineage-negative progenitor. These findings provide a framework for understanding the differentiation process that occurs in each primordial follicle and identifies specific cellular/molecular phenotypes that may be relevant to either diagnosis or treatment of ovarian pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Lustgarten Guahmich
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Limor Man
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Jerry Wang
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Laury Arazi
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Eleni Kallinos
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Ariana Topper-Kroog
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Gabriel Grullon
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Kimberly Zhang
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Joshua Stewart
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Nina Schatz-Siemers
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Sam H Jones
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Richard Bodine
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Nikica Zaninovic
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Glenn Schattman
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Zev Rosenwaks
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Daylon James
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
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Hossay C, Tramacere F, Cacciottola L, Camboni A, Squifflet JL, Donnez J, Dolmans MM. Follicle outcomes in human ovarian tissue: effect of freezing, culture, and grafting. Fertil Steril 2023; 119:135-145. [PMID: 36481098 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.09.360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the effect of freezing, in vitro culture (IVC) and grafting to chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) on follicle outcomes in human ovarian tissue. DESIGN An experimental study. SETTING University-based research laboratory. PATIENTS Fresh and cryopreserved ovarian tissue from 10 patients was donated to research with their consent and institutional review board approval. INTERVENTIONS Fresh and frozen-thawed ovarian cortical pieces were in vitro-cultured and compared (fresh-IVC vs FT-IVC). The FT-IVC fragments were then examined against fragments grafted to CAM (FT-CAM). After both IVC and CAM grafting, ovarian cortical pieces (4×2×1 mm3) were analyzed on days 0, 1, and 6. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Follicle analyses included histology (count and classification) and immunohistochemistry (Ki67 [proliferation], caspase-3 [apoptosis], 1A and 1B light chain 3B [autophagy], p-Akt, FOXO1, and p-rpS6 [PI3K activation]). Droplet digital polymerase chain reaction further explored expression of PI3K pathway- and oocyte-related genes in tissue sections. RESULTS No major differences were detected between fresh-IVC and FT-IVC tissues in any conducted analyses. Although a significant drop was observed in primordial follicle (PF) proportions in the fresh-IVC and FT-IVC groups (d0 vs. d6, P<.002), they held steady in the FT-CAM group (d0 vs. d6, P>.05). The PF rates were also significantly higher in the FT-CAM group than the FT-IVC group on d6 (P=.02). Importantly, avian erythrocytes were already present in 30% of implants from d1. Apoptotic and autophagic follicle rates increased during IVC (P<.008), but remained significantly lower in the FT-CAM group (P<.01), confirming superior follicle preservation in CAM-grafted tissue. Upregulation of the PI3K/FOXO pathway was established in the IVC groups, demonstrating PF activation, whereas significant pathway downregulation was detected in the FT-CAM group (P<.03). The droplet digital polymerase chain reaction tests confirmed oocyte growth during IVC and follicle autophagy in all groups; however, the PI3K pathway appeared to be differentially modulated in tissues and follicles. CONCLUSIONS In vitro culture induces PF depletion with no additional impact of freezing. Grafting to CAM preserves the PF pool by curbing follicle activation, apoptosis, and autophagy, probably thanks to rapid graft revascularization and/or the circulating embryonic antimüllerian hormone. These findings highlight the importance of enhancing neoangiogenesis in ovarian grafts and investigating the potential benefits of administering antimüllerian hormone to prevent PF burnout.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Hossay
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Francesca Tramacere
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Luciana Cacciottola
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alessandra Camboni
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium; Anatomopathology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jean-Luc Squifflet
- Gynecology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jacques Donnez
- Society for Research into Infertility, Brussels, Belgium; Professor Emeritus, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marie-Madeleine Dolmans
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium; Gynecology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium.
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8
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Man L, Lustgarten Guahmich N, Kallinos E, Caiazza B, Khan M, Liu ZY, Patel R, Torres C, Pepin D, Yang HS, Bodine R, Zaninovic N, Schattman G, Rosenwaks Z, James D. Chronic superphysiologic AMH promotes premature luteinization of antral follicles in human ovarian xenografts. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabi7315. [PMID: 35263130 PMCID: PMC8906729 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abi7315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is produced by growing ovarian follicles and provides a diagnostic measure of reproductive reserve in women; however, the impact of AMH on folliculogenesis is poorly understood. We cotransplanted human ovarian cortex with control or AMH-expressing endothelial cells in immunocompromised mice and recovered antral follicles for purification and downstream single-cell RNA sequencing of granulosa and theca/stroma cell fractions. A total of 38 antral follicles were observed (19 control and 19 AMH) at long-term intervals (>10 weeks). In the context of exogenous AMH, follicles exhibited a decreased ratio of primordial to growing follicles and antral follicles of increased diameter. Transcriptomic analysis and immunolabeling revealed a marked increase in factors typically noted at more advanced stages of follicle maturation, with granulosa and theca/stroma cells also displaying molecular hallmarks of luteinization. These results suggest that superphysiologic AMH alone may contribute to ovulatory dysfunction by accelerating maturation and/or luteinization of antral-stage follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limor Man
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Nicole Lustgarten Guahmich
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Eleni Kallinos
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Barbara Caiazza
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Monica Khan
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Zong-Ying Liu
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Ritaben Patel
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Carmen Torres
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - David Pepin
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02214, USA
| | - He S. Yang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Richard Bodine
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Nikica Zaninovic
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Tri-Institutional Stem Cell Derivation Laboratory, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Glenn Schattman
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Zev Rosenwaks
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Daylon James
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Tri-Institutional Stem Cell Derivation Laboratory, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
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9
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Francés-Herrero E, Lopez R, Hellström M, de Miguel-Gómez L, Herraiz S, Brännström M, Pellicer A, Cervelló I. OUP accepted manuscript. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 28:798-837. [PMID: 35652272 PMCID: PMC9629485 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To provide the optimal milieu for implantation and fetal development, the female reproductive system must orchestrate uterine dynamics with the appropriate hormones produced by the ovaries. Mature oocytes may be fertilized in the fallopian tubes, and the resulting zygote is transported toward the uterus, where it can implant and continue developing. The cervix acts as a physical barrier to protect the fetus throughout pregnancy, and the vagina acts as a birth canal (involving uterine and cervix mechanisms) and facilitates copulation. Fertility can be compromised by pathologies that affect any of these organs or processes, and therefore, being able to accurately model them or restore their function is of paramount importance in applied and translational research. However, innate differences in human and animal model reproductive tracts, and the static nature of 2D cell/tissue culture techniques, necessitate continued research and development of dynamic and more complex in vitro platforms, ex vivo approaches and in vivo therapies to study and support reproductive biology. To meet this need, bioengineering is propelling the research on female reproduction into a new dimension through a wide range of potential applications and preclinical models, and the burgeoning number and variety of studies makes for a rapidly changing state of the field. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review aims to summarize the mounting evidence on bioengineering strategies, platforms and therapies currently available and under development in the context of female reproductive medicine, in order to further understand female reproductive biology and provide new options for fertility restoration. Specifically, techniques used in, or for, the uterus (endometrium and myometrium), ovary, fallopian tubes, cervix and vagina will be discussed. SEARCH METHODS A systematic search of full-text articles available in PubMed and Embase databases was conducted to identify relevant studies published between January 2000 and September 2021. The search terms included: bioengineering, reproduction, artificial, biomaterial, microfluidic, bioprinting, organoid, hydrogel, scaffold, uterus, endometrium, ovary, fallopian tubes, oviduct, cervix, vagina, endometriosis, adenomyosis, uterine fibroids, chlamydia, Asherman’s syndrome, intrauterine adhesions, uterine polyps, polycystic ovary syndrome and primary ovarian insufficiency. Additional studies were identified by manually searching the references of the selected articles and of complementary reviews. Eligibility criteria included original, rigorous and accessible peer-reviewed work, published in English, on female reproductive bioengineering techniques in preclinical (in vitro/in vivo/ex vivo) and/or clinical testing phases. OUTCOMES Out of the 10 390 records identified, 312 studies were included for systematic review. Owing to inconsistencies in the study measurements and designs, the findings were assessed qualitatively rather than by meta-analysis. Hydrogels and scaffolds were commonly applied in various bioengineering-related studies of the female reproductive tract. Emerging technologies, such as organoids and bioprinting, offered personalized diagnoses and alternative treatment options, respectively. Promising microfluidic systems combining various bioengineering approaches have also shown translational value. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The complexity of the molecular, endocrine and tissue-level interactions regulating female reproduction present challenges for bioengineering approaches to replace female reproductive organs. However, interdisciplinary work is providing valuable insight into the physicochemical properties necessary for reproductive biological processes to occur. Defining the landscape of reproductive bioengineering technologies currently available and under development for women can provide alternative models for toxicology/drug testing, ex vivo fertility options, clinical therapies and a basis for future organ regeneration studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mats Hellström
- Laboratory for Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Lucía de Miguel-Gómez
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Fundación IVI, IVI-RMA Global, Valencia, Spain
| | - Sonia Herraiz
- Fundación IVI, IVI-RMA Global, Valencia, Spain
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, IIS La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Mats Brännström
- Laboratory for Transplantation and Regenerative Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Stockholm IVF-EUGIN, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- IVI Roma Parioli, IVI-RMA Global, Rome, Italy
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10
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Man L, Lustgarten Guahmich N, Kallinos E, Park L, Caiazza B, Khan M, Liu ZY, Patel R, Torres C, Lekovich J, Zhong L, Bodine R, Wen D, Zaninovic N, Schattman G, Rosenwaks Z, James D. Exogenous insulin-like growth factor 1 accelerates growth and maturation of follicles in human cortical xenografts and increases ovarian output in mice. F&S SCIENCE 2021; 2:237-247. [PMID: 35560275 PMCID: PMC9361175 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2021.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To measure the influence of exogenous insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) on follicle growth and maturation in human ovarian cortical xenografts. DESIGN Xenotransplantation model. SETTING University-based research laboratory. PATIENTS/ANIMALS Ovarian tissue was donated with consent and institutional review board approval by brain-dead organ donors or patients undergoing ovarian tissue cryopreservation for fertility preservation. Cortical fragments were transplanted into immunocompromised mice. INTERVENTIONS Cryopreserved ovarian cortical fragments from four women (aged 19, 25, 33, and 46 years) were transplanted into the gluteus muscle of immunocompromised mice in a fibrin matrix containing endothelial cells that were transduced with lentiviral particles encoding secreted IGF1. Xenografts were recovered after 3, 8, and 14 weeks. In addition, C57/Bl6 mice underwent intraovarian injection of saline or recombinant IGF1 (60 μg), followed by superovulation, analysis of ethynyl-deoxyuridine incorporation, and ribonucleic acid sequencing of the whole ovaries. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES For xenografts: follicle count and distribution; antral follicle count; and corpora lutea/albicans count. For mice: follicle count and distribution; oocyte yield, ethynyl-deoxyuridine incorporation (granulosa cell proliferation); and ovarian transcriptomic signature. RESULTS At 3 weeks, xenografts in the IGF1 condition revealed a decreased percentage of primary follicles and increased percentage of secondary follicles that were concentrated in the preantral subtype; at 8 weeks, an increase in secondary follicles was concentrated in the simple subtype; after 14 weeks, primordial follicles were reduced, and while the number of advanced follicles did not power the experiment to demonstrate significance, antral follicles reduced and corpora lutea increased. Supporting experiments in mice revealed an increase in normal oocytes following intraovarian injection of recombinant IGF1 (60 μg) as well as increased proliferative index among follicles of secondary and preantral stages. Ribonucleic acid sequencing analysis of the whole ovaries following injection of recombinant IGF1 (25 μg) revealed an acute (24 hours) upregulation of transcripts related to steroidogenesis and luteinization. CONCLUSIONS Exogenous IGF1 advances the pace of growth among primordial, primary, and secondary stage follicles but results in near absence of antral stage follicles in long-term (14 weeks) xenografts. In mice, acute administration of IGF1 promotes follicle advance and increased oocyte yield. The results suggest that while superphysiological IGF1 alone advances the pace of growth among early/preantral follicles, a sustained and/or later-stage influence undermines antral follicle growth/survival or promotes premature luteinization. These findings provide a temporal framework for interpreting follicle growth/mobilization and may be useful in understanding the clinical application of human growth hormone in the context of assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limor Man
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Nicole Lustgarten Guahmich
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Eleni Kallinos
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Laura Park
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Barbara Caiazza
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Monica Khan
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Zong-Ying Liu
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Ritaben Patel
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Carmen Torres
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Jovana Lekovich
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Liangwen Zhong
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Richard Bodine
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Duancheng Wen
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Nikica Zaninovic
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York; Tri-Institutional Stem Cell Derivation Laboratory, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Glenn Schattman
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Zev Rosenwaks
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Daylon James
- Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York; Tri-Institutional Stem Cell Derivation Laboratory, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York.
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11
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Cacciottola L, Donnez J, Dolmans MM. Ovarian tissue damage after grafting: systematic review of strategies to improve follicle outcomes. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 43:351-369. [PMID: 34384692 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Frozen-thawed human ovarian tissue endures large-scale follicle loss in the early post-grafting period, characterized by hypoxia lasting around 7 days. Tissue revascularization occurs progressively through new vessel invasion from the host and neoangiogenesis from the graft. Such reoxygenation kinetics lead to further potential damage caused by oxidative stress. The aim of the present manuscript is to provide a systematic review of proangiogenic growth factors, hormones and various antioxidants administered in the event of ovarian tissue transplantation to protect the follicle pool from depletion by boosting revascularization or decreasing oxidative stress. Although almost all investigated studies revealed an advantage in terms of revascularization and reduction in oxidative stress, far fewer demonstrated a positive impact on follicle survival. As the cascade of events driven by ischaemia after transplantation is a complex process involving numerous players, it appears that acting on specific molecular mechanisms, such as concentrations of proangiogenic growth factors, is not enough to significantly mitigate tissue damage. Strategies exploiting the activated tissue response to ischaemia for tissue healing and remodelling purposes, such as the use of antiapoptotic drugs and adult stem cells, are also discussed in the present review, since they yielded promising results in terms of follicle pool protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Cacciottola
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jacques Donnez
- Prof. Emeritus, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marie-Madeleine Dolmans
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium; Department of Gynecology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium.
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12
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Rao VKS, Eipper BA, Mains RE. Multiple roles for peptidylglycine α-amidating monooxygenase in the response to hypoxia. J Cell Physiol 2021; 236:7745-7758. [PMID: 34061983 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The biosynthesis of many of the peptides involved in homeostatic control requires peptidylglycine α-amidating monooxygenase (PAM), an ancient, highly conserved copper- and ascorbate-dependent enzyme. Using the production of amidated chromogranin A to monitor PAM function in tumor cells, physiologically relevant levels of hypoxia were shown to inhibit this monooxygenase. The ability of primary pituitary cells exposed to hypoxic conditions for 4 h to produce amidated chromogranin A was similarly inhibited. The affinity of the purified monooxygenase for oxygen (Km = 99 ± 19 μM) was consistent with this result. The ability of PAM to alter secretory pathway behavior under normoxic conditions required its monooxygenase activity. Under normoxic conditions, hypoxia-inducible factor 1a levels in dense cultures of corticotrope tumor cells expressing high levels of PAM exceeded those in control cells; expression of inactive monooxygenase did not have this effect. The effects of hypoxia on levels of two PAM-regulated genes (activating transcription factor 3 [Atf3] and FK506 binding protein 2 [Fkbp2]) differed in cells expressing high versus low levels of PAM. Putative hypoxia response elements occur in both human and mouse PAM, and hPAM has consistently been identified as one of the genes upregulated in response to hypoxia. Expression of PAM is also known to alter gene expression. A quarter of the genes consistently upregulated in response to hypoxia were downregulated following increased expression of PAM. Taken together, our data suggest roles for PAM and amidated peptide secretion in the coordination of tissue-specific responses to hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishwanatha K S Rao
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Betty A Eipper
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA.,Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Richard E Mains
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
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13
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Lee S, Ozkavukcu S, Ku SY. Current and Future Perspectives for Improving Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation and Transplantation Outcomes for Cancer Patients. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:1746-1758. [PMID: 33791995 PMCID: PMC8144135 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00517-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Although advances in cancer treatment and early diagnosis have significantly improved cancer survival rates, cancer therapies can cause serious side effects, including ovarian failure and infertility, in women of reproductive age. Infertility following cancer treatment can have significant adverse effects on the quality of life. However, established methods for fertility preservation, including embryo or oocyte cryopreservation, are not always suitable for female cancer patients because of complicated individual conditions and treatment methods. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation is a promising option for fertility preservation in pre-pubertal girls and adult patients with cancer who require immediate treatment, or who are not eligible to undergo ovarian stimulation. This review introduces various methods and strategies to improve ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation outcomes, to help patients and clinicians choose the best option when considering the potential complexity of a patient's situation. Effective multidisciplinary oncofertility strategies, involving the inclusion of a highly skilled and experienced oncofertility team that considers cryopreservation methods, thawing processes and devices, surgical procedures for transplantation, and advances in technologies, are necessary to provide high-quality care to a cancer patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanghoon Lee
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University College of Medicine, 73, Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sinan Ozkavukcu
- Center for Assisted Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Seung-Yup Ku
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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14
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Man L, Lustgarten-Guahmich N, Kallinos E, Redhead-Laconte Z, Liu S, Schattman B, Redmond D, Hancock K, Zaninovic N, Schattman G, Rosenwaks Z, James D. Comparison of Human Antral Follicles of Xenograft versus Ovarian Origin Reveals Disparate Molecular Signatures. Cell Rep 2021; 32:108027. [PMID: 32783948 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.108027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The activation, growth, and maturation of oocytes to an ovulatory phase, termed folliculogenesis, is governed by the orchestrated activity of multiple specialized cell types within the ovary; yet, the mechanisms governing diversification and behavior of discrete cellular sub-populations within follicles are poorly understood. We use bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing to distinguish the transcriptional signature of prospectively isolated granulosa and theca/stroma cell subsets within human antral follicles derived from xenografts or ovaries. The analysis deconstructs phenotypic diversification within small (<4 mm) antral follicles, identifying secreted factors that are differentially enriched between mural and oophorus granulosa cells, and segregating stromal/support and steroidal activity between theca externa and interna, respectively. Multiple factors are differentially expressed in follicles of xenograft versus ovarian origin. These data capture a high-resolution transcriptional signature of granulosa and theca subpopulations and provide a systems-level portrait of cellular diversification in early antral human follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limor Man
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Nicole Lustgarten-Guahmich
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Eleni Kallinos
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Zachary Redhead-Laconte
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Sally Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Benjamin Schattman
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - David Redmond
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Kolbe Hancock
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Nikica Zaninovic
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Glenn Schattman
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Zev Rosenwaks
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Daylon James
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA; Tri-Institutional Stem Cell Derivation Laboratory, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA.
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15
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Grosbois J, Devos M, Demeestere I. Implications of Nonphysiological Ovarian Primordial Follicle Activation for Fertility Preservation. Endocr Rev 2020; 41:5882019. [PMID: 32761180 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnaa020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, ovarian tissue cryopreservation has rapidly developed as a successful method for preserving the fertility of girls and young women with cancer or benign conditions requiring gonadotoxic therapy, and is now becoming widely recognized as an effective alternative to oocyte and embryo freezing when not feasible. Primordial follicles are the most abundant population of follicles in the ovary, and their relatively quiescent metabolism makes them more resistant to cryoinjury. This dormant pool represents a key target for fertility preservation strategies as a resource for generating high-quality oocytes. However, development of mature, competent oocytes derived from primordial follicles is challenging, particularly in larger mammals. One of the main barriers is the substantial knowledge gap regarding the regulation of the balance between dormancy and activation of primordial follicles to initiate their growing phase. In addition, experimental and clinical factors also affect dormant follicle demise, while the mechanisms involved remain largely to be elucidated. Moreover, most of our basic knowledge of these processes comes from rodent studies and should be extrapolated to humans with caution, considering the differences between species in the reproductive field. Overcoming these obstacles is essential to improving both the quantity and the quality of mature oocytes available for further fertilization, and may have valuable biological and clinical applications, especially in fertility preservation procedures. This review provides an update on current knowledge of mammalian primordial follicle activation under both physiological and nonphysiological conditions, and discusses implications for fertility preservation and priorities for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanne Grosbois
- Research Laboratory in Human Reproduction, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.,Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Melody Devos
- Research Laboratory in Human Reproduction, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Isabelle Demeestere
- Research Laboratory in Human Reproduction, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.,Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Erasme Hospital, Brussels, Belgium
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16
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Wall MA, Padmanabhan V, Shikanov A. Hormonal Stimulation of Human Ovarian Xenografts in Mice: Studying Folliculogenesis, Activation, and Oocyte Maturation. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5939202. [PMID: 33099627 PMCID: PMC7671278 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and banking provides a fertility preservation option for patients who cannot undergo oocyte retrieval; it is quickly becoming a critical component of assisted reproductive technology programs across the world. While the transplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue has resulted in over 130 live births, the field has ample room for technological improvements. Specifically, the functional timeline of grafted tissue and each patient's probability of achieving pregnancy is largely unpredictable due to patient-to-patient variability in ovarian reserve, lack of a reliable method for quantifying follicle numbers within tissue fragments, potential risk of reintroduction of cancer cells harbored in ovarian tissues, and an inability to control follicle activation rates. This review focuses on one of the most common physiological techniques used to study human ovarian tissue transplantation, xenotransplantation of human ovarian tissue to mice and endeavors to inform future studies by discussing the elements of the xenotransplantation model, challenges unique to the use of human ovarian tissue, and novel tissue engineering techniques currently under investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Anne Wall
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Ariella Shikanov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Macromolecular Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Correspondence: Ariella Shikanov, PhD, 2126 LBME, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Biomedical Engineering Building, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA. E-mail:
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17
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Molecular Basis Associated with the Control of Primordial Follicle Activation During Transplantation of Cryopreserved Ovarian Tissue. Reprod Sci 2020; 28:1257-1266. [DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00318-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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18
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Roness H, Spector I, Leichtmann-Bardoogo Y, Savino AM, Dereh-Haim S, Meirow D. Pharmacological administration of recombinant human AMH rescues ovarian reserve and preserves fertility in a mouse model of chemotherapy, without interfering with anti-tumoural effects. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:1793-1803. [PMID: 31250176 PMCID: PMC6730972 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01507-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine whether pharmacological administration of recombinant human anti-Mullerian hormone (rAMH) protects the ovarian reserve and preserves fertility without interfering with anti-tumoural cytotoxic action of chemotherapy. METHODS Intraperitoneal delivery of rAMH and ovarian post-receptor activity were assessed with immunohistochemistry and western blot. Differential follicle counts and reproductive outcomes were assessed after cyclophosphamide (Cy) administration, with/without concurrent administration of rAMH. Interference of rAMH with Cy chemotoxicity was assessed on a human breast cancer cell line and an in vivo mouse model of human leukaemia. RESULTS rAMH reached the ovary after intraperitoneal injection and demonstrated post-receptor bioactivity. Cy administration in mice caused primordial follicle activation, as shown by a decrease in primordial follicle population accompanied by an increase in early growing follicles and granulosa cell proliferation. Co-administration of rAMH reduced follicle activation, thereby protecting the primordial follicle reserve, and improving long-term fertility and reproductive outcomes. rAMH co-administration did not interfere with the cytotoxic actions of Cy in vitro on breast cancer cell line or in vivo in a model of human leukaemia. CONCLUSION This study demonstrates that rAMH is bioactive in the ovary for a limited time, and that pharmacological administration of rAMH during chemotherapy treatment reduces follicle activation and primordial follicle loss and significantly improves reproductive outcomes in a mouse model, and does not interfere with the therapeutic actions of the treatment. Further investigation is necessary to determine whether it has similar protective effects in the human ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Roness
- Fertility Preservation Research Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Centre, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - I Spector
- Fertility Preservation Research Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Centre, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Y Leichtmann-Bardoogo
- Fertility Preservation Research Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Centre, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - A M Savino
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sheba Medical Centre, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Sanaz Dereh-Haim
- Fertility Preservation Research Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Centre, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Dror Meirow
- Fertility Preservation Research Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sheba Medical Centre, Ramat Gan, Israel.
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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19
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Takae S, Suzuki N. Current state and future possibilities of ovarian tissue transplantation. Reprod Med Biol 2019; 18:217-224. [PMID: 31312099 PMCID: PMC6613018 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a result of recent developments in cancer treatment, cancer survivorship and survivors' quality of life have been emphasized. Although ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) is an experimental technique, it would be the sole technique for fertility preservation treatment for girls with malignant disease. Indeed, OTC requires ovarian tissue transplantation (OTT) for conception. As for OTC, there is room to investigate OTT. The present review focused on the current state and progress of OTT. METHOD The literature regarding OTT, which is currently under development, was reviewed. MAIN FINDINGS To improve the outcome of OTT, both efficacy and safety are important. Good surgical technique and the optimal site are important surgical factors, with orthotopic transplantation increasing. Treatment of growth factors, gonadotropins, antioxidants, apoptosis suppression factors, and cell therapy may improve the efficacy of OTT by inducing neo-angiogenesis and preventing damage. Artificial ovaries, complete in vitro primordial follicle culture technique, and non-invasive ovarian imaging techniques, such as optical coherence tomography, to select the best ovarian tissue are future possibilities. CONCLUSION Improving neo-angiogenesis and preventing damage with optimization, as well as investigation of future techniques, may bring us to the next stage of a fertility preservation strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seido Takae
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySt. Marianna University School of MedicineKawasaki CityJapan
| | - Nao Suzuki
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySt. Marianna University School of MedicineKawasaki CityJapan
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20
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Pépin D, Sabatini ME, Donahoe PK. Müllerian inhibiting substance/anti-Müllerian hormone as a fertility preservation agent. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2018; 25:399-405. [PMID: 30320617 DOI: 10.1097/med.0000000000000442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The nascent field of oncofertility is quickly gaining traction as novel experimental treatments are being developed, driving a renewed interest in Müllerian inhibiting substance (MIS) as an ovarian fertoprotectant. RECENT FINDINGS MIS is unique in its mechanisms of ovarian protection by virtue of acting directly on granulosa cells of primordial follicles and for being a benign reproductive hormone, with few side effects. We will explore in this review how it may be utilized to protect the ovary from chemotherapy, or to enhance ovarian tissue cryopreservation therapy. We will also examine potential mechanisms of action of MIS across multiple cell types, as well as current limitations in our understanding of the pharmacology of recombinant MIS. SUMMARY The usefulness of MIS as a fertoprotectant may be dependent on the mechanisms of gonadotoxicity of each chemotherapeutic. Further investigation is needed to determine how to best deliver and combine MIS treatment to existing fertility management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Pépin
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge
| | - Mary E Sabatini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Patricia K Donahoe
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge
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21
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Takai Y. Recent advances in oncofertility care worldwide and in Japan. Reprod Med Biol 2018; 17:356-368. [PMID: 30377391 PMCID: PMC6194250 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oncofertility is a crucial facet of cancer supportive care. The publication of guidelines for the cryopreservation of oocytes and ovarian tissue is becoming increasingly prevalent in Japan and an updated overview is necessary. METHODS In order to provide an updated overview of oncofertility care, original research and review articles were searched from the PubMed database and compared in order to present clinical care in Japan. RESULTS In Western countries, various methods for ovarian stimulation, such as the combined use of aromatase inhibitors and random-start protocols, have been reported. Although ovarian tissue cryopreservation, mainly performed via the slow-freezing method, also has yielded >100 live births, the optimal indications and procedures for the auto-transplantation of cryopreserved tissue have been under investigation. In Japan, however, vitrification is prevalent for ovarian tissue cryopreservation, although its efficacy has not yet been established. The quality of network systems for providing oncofertility care in Japan varies greatly, based on the region. CONCLUSION There remain many issues in the optimization of oncofertility care in Japan. Along with the regional oncofertility networks, the creation of "oncofertility navigators" from healthcare providers who are familiar with oncofertility, such as nurses, psychologists, and embryologists, could be useful for supplementing oncofertility care coordination, overcoming the issues in individual regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasushi Takai
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySaitama Medical CenterSaitama Medical UniversityKawagoeJapan
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22
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Synergy of Paracrine Signaling During Early-Stage Mouse Ovarian Follicle Development In Vitro. Cell Mol Bioeng 2018; 11:435-450. [PMID: 31719893 DOI: 10.1007/s12195-018-0545-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Paracrine signals, such as soluble cytokines and extracellular matrix cues, are essential for the survival and development of multicellular ovarian follicles. While it is well established that hydrogel-based culture systems successfully support the growth of late-stage follicles for fertility preservation, growing small, early-stage ovarian follicles still proves to be challenging. We hypothesized that paracrine factors secreted from neighboring follicles may be crucial for improving the survival of early-stage follicles in vitro. Methods To test our hypothesis, we investigated the bi-directional crosstalk of the paracrine signals, such as cell-secreted cytokines, sex hormones and transcription factors (TFs), in follicles encapsulated and cultured for 12 days in alginate in groups of five (5×) and ten (10×). Results The differential profiles of TF activity and secretome during folliculogenesis were analyzed using TRanscriptional Activity CEllular aRray (TRACER) and data-driven multivariate modeling approach. The mechano- and oxygen-responsive TFs, NF-κB and HIF1, exhibited a unique upregulation signature in 10× follicles. Consistently, levels of proangiogenic factors, such as VEGF-A and angiopoietin-2, were significantly higher in 10× follicles than those in 5× follicles, reaching 269.77 and 242.82 pg/mL on the last day of culture. The analysis of TRACER and secreted cytokines also revealed critical early interactions between cytokines and TFs, correlating with the observed phenotypical and functional differences between conditions. Conclusions We identified unique signatures of synergism during successful early-stage ovarian follicle development. These findings bring us closer to understanding of mechanisms underlying the downstream effects of interactions between the extracellular microenvironment and early-stage folliculogenesis in vitro.
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