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Bazer FW, Johnson GA. Early Embryonic Development in Agriculturally Important Species. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1882. [PMID: 38997994 PMCID: PMC11240814 DOI: 10.3390/ani14131882] [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: 05/29/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The fertilization of oocytes ovulated by pigs, sheep, cows, and horses is not considered a limiting factor in successful establishment of pregnancy. Pig, sheep, and cow embryos undergo cleavage to the blastocyst stage, hatch from the zona pellucida, and undergo central-type implantation. Hatched blastocysts of pigs, sheep, and cows transition from tubular to long filamentous forms to establish surface area for exchange of nutrients and gases with the uterus. The equine blastocyst, surrounded by external membranes, does not elongate but migrates throughout the uterine lumen before attaching to the uterine luminal epithelium (LE) to begin implantation. Pregnancy recognition signaling in pigs requires the trophectoderm to express interleukin 1 beta, estrogens, prostaglandin E2, and interferon gamma. Sheep and cow conceptus trophectoderm expresses interferon tau that induces interferon regulatory factor 2 that inhibits transcription of estrogen and oxytocin receptors by uterine epithelia. This prevents oxytocin-induced luteolytic pulses of prostaglandin F2-alpha from regressing the corpora lutea, as well as ensuring the secretion of progesterone required for maintenance of pregnancy. The pregnancy recognition signal produced by equine blastocysts is not known. Implantation in these species requires interactions between extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and integrins as the conceptus undergoes apposition and firm attachment to the uterine LE. This review provides details with respect to early embryonic development and the transition from spherical to filamentous conceptuses in pigs, sheep, and cows, as well as pre-implantation development of equine blastocysts and implantation of the conceptuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuller W. Bazer
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-2471, USA
| | - Gregory A. Johnson
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-2471, USA;
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Zhou C, Wang Y, He S, Lin S, Cheng J, Hu Q, Meng F, Gu T, Cai G, Li Z, Wu Z, Hong L. DIA-based quantitative proteomic analysis of porcine endometrium in the peri-implantation phase. J Proteomics 2024; 293:105065. [PMID: 38158016 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2023.105065] [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: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The 12th day of gestation is a critical period for embryo loss and the beginning of imminent implantation in sows. Data independent acquisition (DIA) technology is one of the high-throughput, high-resolution and reproducible proteomics technologies for large-scale digital qualitative and quantitative research. The aim of this study was to identify and characterize the protein abundance landscape of Yorkshire pig endometrium on the 12th day of pregnancy (P12) and estrous cycle (C12) using DIA proteomics. A total of 1251 differentially abundant proteins (DAPs) were identified, of which 882 were up-regulated and 369 were down-regulated at P12. Functional enrichment analysis showed that the identified proteins were related to metabolism, biosynthesis and signaling pathways. Three proteins were selected for Western blot (WB) validation and the results were consistent with the DIA data. Further combined with transcriptome data, fibrinogen like 2 (FGL2) and S100 calcium binding protein A8 (S100A8) were verified to be highly abundant in the P12 endometrial epithelium. In summary, there were significantly different abundance of proteome profiles in C12 and P12 endometrium, suggesting that DAPs are associated with changes in endometrial receptivity, which laid the foundation for further research on related regulatory mechanisms. SIGNIFICANCE: The 12th day of gestation is an important point in the peri-implantation period of pigs, when the endometrium presents a receptive state under the stimulation of estrogen. DIA proteomics technology is an emerging protein identification technology in recent years, which can obtain protein information through comprehensive and unbiased scanning. In this study, DIA technology was used to characterize endometrial proteins in pigs during the peri-implantation period. The results showed that higher protein abundance was detected using the DIA technique, and some of these DAPs may be involved in regulating embryo implantation. This study will help to better reveal the related proteins involved in embryo implantation, and lay a foundation for further research on the mechanism of endometrial regulation of embryo implantation. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY: The 12th day of gestation is an important point in the peri-implantation period of pigs, when the endometrium presents a receptive state under the stimulation of estrogen. DIA proteomics technology is an emerging protein identification technology in recent years, which can obtain protein information through comprehensive and unbiased scanning. In this study, DIA technology was used to characterize endometrial proteins in pigs during the peri-implantation period. The results showed that higher protein abundance was detected using the DIA technique, and some of these DAPs may be involved in regulating embryo implantation. This study will help to better reveal the related proteins involved in embryo implantation, and lay a foundation for further research on the mechanism of endometrial regulation of embryo implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China; National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongzhong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China; National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Simin He
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China; National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shifei Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China; National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China; National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qun Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China; National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fanming Meng
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Nutrition, Institute of Animal Science, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ting Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China; National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gengyuan Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China; National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zicong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China; National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenfang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China; National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China; Yunfu Subcenter of Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Yunfu, China; Key Laboratory of South China Modern Biological Seed Industry, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Linjun Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China; National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangzhou, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of South China Modern Biological Seed Industry, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Guangzhou, China.
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Muhandiram S, Dissanayake K, Orro T, Godakumara K, Kodithuwakku S, Fazeli A. Secretory Proteomic Responses of Endometrial Epithelial Cells to Trophoblast-Derived Extracellular Vesicles. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11924. [PMID: 37569298 PMCID: PMC10418763 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241511924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Synchronized crosstalk between the embryo and endometrium during the periconception period is integral to pregnancy establishment. Increasing evidence suggests that the exchange of extracellular vesicles (EVs) of both embryonic and endometrial origin is a critical component of embryo-maternal communication during peri-implantation. Here, we investigated whether embryonic signals in the form of EVs can modulate the endometrial epithelial cell secretome. Receptive endometrial analog RL95-2 cells were supplemented with trophoblast analog JAr cell-derived EVs, and the secretory protein changes occurring in the RL95-2 cells were analyzed using mass spectrometry. EVs of non-trophoblastic origin (HEK 293 cells) were used as the control EV source to supplement endometrial cells. Trophoblast cell-derived EVs enriched endometrial epithelial cell secretions with proteins that support embryo development, attachment, or implantation, whereas control EVs were unable to induce the same effect. The present study suggests that embryonic signals in the form of EVs may prime receptive endometrial epithelial cells to enrich their secretory proteome with critical proteomic molecules with functional importance for periconception milieu formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhashini Muhandiram
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006 Tartu, Estonia; (S.M.); (K.D.); (T.O.); (K.G.); (S.K.)
| | - Keerthie Dissanayake
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006 Tartu, Estonia; (S.M.); (K.D.); (T.O.); (K.G.); (S.K.)
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila St. 14B, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Kandy 20400, Sri Lanka
| | - Toomos Orro
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006 Tartu, Estonia; (S.M.); (K.D.); (T.O.); (K.G.); (S.K.)
| | - Kasun Godakumara
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006 Tartu, Estonia; (S.M.); (K.D.); (T.O.); (K.G.); (S.K.)
| | - Suranga Kodithuwakku
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006 Tartu, Estonia; (S.M.); (K.D.); (T.O.); (K.G.); (S.K.)
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, Kandy 20400, Sri Lanka
| | - Alireza Fazeli
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006 Tartu, Estonia; (S.M.); (K.D.); (T.O.); (K.G.); (S.K.)
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila St. 14B, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
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Mahé C, Marcelo P, Tsikis G, Tomas D, Labas V, Saint-Dizier M. The bovine uterine fluid proteome is more impacted by the stage of the estrous cycle than the proximity of the ovulating ovary in the periconception period. Theriogenology 2023; 198:332-343. [PMID: 36640738 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Uterine secretions provide a suitable environment for sperm selective migration during a couple of days preceding ovulation and for early embryo development before implantation. Our goal was to identify and quantify proteins in the bovine uterine fluid during the periovulatory period of the estrous cycle. Genital tracts with normal morphology were collected from adult cyclic Bos taurus females in a local slaughterhouse and classified into pre-ovulatory or post-ovulatory stages of cycle (around days 19-21 and 0-5 of cycle, respectively; n = 8 cows per stage) based on ovarian morphology. Proteins from uterine fluid collected from the utero-tubal junction to the base of each horn (four pools of two cows per condition) were analyzed by nanoLiquid Chromatography coupled with tandem Mass Spectrometry (nanoLC-MS/MS). A total of 1214 proteins were identified, of which 91% were shared between all conditions. Overall, 57% of proteins were predicted to be secreted and 17% were previously reported in uterine extracellular vesicles. Paired comparisons between uterine horns ipsilateral and contralateral to ovulation evidenced 12 differentially abundant proteins, including five at pre-ovulatory stage. Furthermore, 35 proteins differed in abundance between pre- and post-ovulatory stages, including 21 in the ipsilateral side of ovulation. Functional analysis of identified proteins demonstrated roles in binding, metabolism, cellular detoxification and the immune response. This study provides a valuable database of uterine proteins for functional studies on sperm physiology and early embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coline Mahé
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380, Nouzilly, France.
| | - Paulo Marcelo
- Plateforme d'Ingénierie Cellulaire & Analyses des Protéines ICAP, FR CNRS 3085 ICP, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
| | - Guillaume Tsikis
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Daniel Tomas
- INRAE, Université de Tours, CHU de Tours, Plateforme de Phénotypage par Imagerie in/eX vivo de l'ANImal à la Molécule (PIXANIM), 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - Valérie Labas
- INRAE, Université de Tours, CHU de Tours, Plateforme de Phénotypage par Imagerie in/eX vivo de l'ANImal à la Molécule (PIXANIM), 37380, Nouzilly, France
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Vegas AR, Podico G, Canisso IF, Bollwein H, Fröhlich T, Bauersachs S, Almiñana C. Dynamic regulation of the transcriptome and proteome of the equine embryo during maternal recognition of pregnancy. FASEB Bioadv 2022; 4:775-797. [PMID: 36479207 PMCID: PMC9721094 DOI: 10.1096/fba.2022-00063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
During initial maternal recognition of pregnancy (MRP), the equine embryo displays a series of unique events characterized by rapid blastocyst expansion, secretion of a diverse array of molecules, and transuterine migration to interact with the uterine surface. Up to date, the intricate transcriptome and proteome changes of the embryo underlying these events have not been critically studied in horses. Thus, the objective of this study was to perform an integrative transcriptomic (including mRNA, miRNAs, and other small non-coding RNAs) and proteomic analysis of embryos collected from days 10 to 13 of gestation. The results revealed dynamic transcriptome profiles with a total of 1311 differentially expressed genes, including 18 microRNAs (miRNAs). Two main profiles for mRNAs and miRNAs were identified, one with higher expression in embryos ≤5 mm and the second with higher expression in embryos ≥7 mm. At the protein level, similar results were obtained, with 259 differentially abundant proteins between small and large embryos. Overall, the findings demonstrated fine-tuned transcriptomic and proteomic regulations in the developing embryo associated with embryo growth. The identification of specific regulation of mRNAs, proteins, and miRNAs on days 12 and 13 of gestation suggested these molecules as pivotal for embryo development and as involved in MRP, and in establishment of pregnancy in general. In addition, the results revealed new insights into prostaglandin synthesis by the equine embryo, miRNAs and genes potentially involved in modulation of the maternal immune response, regulation of endometrial receptivity and of late implantation in the mare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba Rudolf Vegas
- Functional Genomics GroupInstitute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse‐Faculty, University of ZurichLindau(ZH)Switzerland
| | - Giorgia Podico
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of Illinois Urbana ChampaignUrbanaIllinoisUSA
| | - Igor F. Canisso
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of Illinois Urbana ChampaignUrbanaIllinoisUSA
| | - Heinrich Bollwein
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Department for Farm Animals, Vetsuisse‐FacultyUniversity of ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Thomas Fröhlich
- Gene Center, Laboratory for Functional Genome AnalysisMunichGermany
| | - Stefan Bauersachs
- Functional Genomics GroupInstitute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse‐Faculty, University of ZurichLindau(ZH)Switzerland
| | - Carmen Almiñana
- Functional Genomics GroupInstitute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse‐Faculty, University of ZurichLindau(ZH)Switzerland
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Rudolf Vegas A, Hamdi M, Podico G, Bollwein H, Fröhlich T, Canisso IF, Bauersachs S, Almiñana C. Uterine extracellular vesicles as multi-signal messengers during maternal recognition of pregnancy in the mare. Sci Rep 2022; 12:15616. [PMID: 36114358 PMCID: PMC9481549 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-19958-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
In contrast to other domestic mammals, the embryo-derived signal(s) leading to maternal recognition of pregnancy (MRP) are still unknow in the mare. We hypothesize that these embryonic signals could be packed into uterine extracellular vesicles (uEVs), acting as multi-signal messengers between the conceptus and the maternal tract, and contributing to MRP. To unveil these signals, the RNA and protein cargos of uEVs isolated from uterine lavages collected from pregnant mares (P; day 10, 11, 12 and 13 after ovulation) and cyclic control mares (C; day 10 and 13 after ovulation) were analyzed. Our results showed a fine-tuned regulation of the uEV cargo (RNAs and proteins), by the day of pregnancy, the estrous cycle, and even the size of the embryo. A particular RNA pattern was identified with specific increase on P12 related to immune system and hormonal response. Besides, a set of proteins as well as RNAs was highly enriched in EVs on P12 and P13. Differential abundance of miRNAs was also identified in P13-derived uEVs. Their target genes were linked to down- or upregulated genes in the embryo and the endometrium, exposing their potential origin. Our study identified for first time specific molecules packed in uEVs, which were previously associated to MRP in the mare, and thus bringing added value to the current knowledge. Further integrative and functional analyses will help to confirm the role of these molecules in uEVs during MRP in the mare.
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The Future of Biomarkers in Veterinary Medicine: Emerging Approaches and Associated Challenges. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12172194. [PMID: 36077913 PMCID: PMC9454634 DOI: 10.3390/ani12172194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In this review we seek to outline the role of new technologies in biomarker discovery, particularly within the veterinary field and with an emphasis on ‘omics’, as well as to examine why many biomarkers-despite much excitement-have not yet made it to clinical practice. Further we emphasise the critical need for close collaboration between clinicians, researchers and funding bodies and the need to set clear goals for biomarker requirements and realistic application in the clinical setting, ensuring that biomarker type, method of detection and clinical utility are compatible, and adequate funding, time and sample size are available for all phases of development. Abstract New biomarkers promise to transform veterinary practice through rapid diagnosis of diseases, effective monitoring of animal health and improved welfare and production efficiency. However, the road from biomarker discovery to translation is not always straightforward. This review focuses on molecular biomarkers under development in the veterinary field, introduces the emerging technological approaches transforming this space and the role of ‘omics platforms in novel biomarker discovery. The vast majority of veterinary biomarkers are at preliminary stages of development and not yet ready to be deployed into clinical translation. Hence, we examine the major challenges encountered in the process of biomarker development from discovery, through validation and translation to clinical practice, including the hurdles specific to veterinary practice and to each of the ‘omics platforms–transcriptomics, proteomics, lipidomics and metabolomics. Finally, recommendations are made for the planning and execution of biomarker studies with a view to assisting the success of novel biomarkers in reaching their full potential.
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Wilsher S, Newcombe JR, Ismer A, Duarte L, Kovacsy S, (Twink) Allen W. The effect of embryo reduction and transfer on luteostasis in the mare. Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 242:107002. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2022.107002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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Deng L, Li Z, Tang C, Han Y, Zhang L, Liao Q. Quantitative analysis of the serum proteome during early pregnancy in mares. Anim Sci J 2022; 93:e13727. [PMID: 35476278 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13727] [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: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Equine pregnancy is currently diagnosed by rectal palpation, ultrasonographic examination, or by measuring changes in hormones in the blood. In the present study, we identified proteins that are differentially expressed in the sera of early pregnant and non-pregnant mares in order to develop a novel method for diagnosing equine pregnancy. Serum samples were obtained from 18 adult mares, pregnancy at day 32 after ovulation (n = 9) and in diestrus (n = 9). Proteomic analysis of the samples was conducted using liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry. We identified 467 proteins from a total of 3514 peptides. Thirty-two proteins (15 upregulated and 17 downregulated) were significantly differentially expressed between the two groups. The Gene Ontology enrichment analysis revealed that they are related to extracellular matrix assembly, blood coagulation, and hemostasis, and the prominent molecular functions were integrin binding, cell adhesion molecule binding, and glycine C-acetyltransferase activity. The pathway analysis of Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes showed that the top three pathways identified were glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism; cysteine and methionine metabolism; and ether lipid metabolism. The selected five serum proteins were newly potential candidates for pregnancy diagnosis in mares.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Deng
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Chi Tang
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China.,Key Laboratory of Protection and Utilization of Biological Resources in Tarim Basin, College of Life Sciences, Tarim University, Alar, China
| | - Yuwei Han
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Linxi Zhang
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
| | - Qingchao Liao
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China
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Diel de Amorim M, Klein C, Foster R, Dong L, Lopez-Rodriguez MF, Card C. Expression of Oxytocin/Neurophysin I and Oxytocinase in the Equine Conceptus from Day 8 to Day 21 Post-Ovulation. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:799. [PMID: 35405789 PMCID: PMC8996865 DOI: 10.3390/ani12070799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Leucyl and cystinyl aminopeptidase (LNPEP/oxytocinase) is an enzyme that metabolizes oxytocin in serum and tissues. The presence of oxytocin/neurophysin I (OXT), oxytocin and LNPEP and their relationship to other genes is unknown in the equine conceptus. Our objective was to characterize gene expression of LNPEP and OXT on D8, 10, 12, 14, 15, 16 and 21 conceptuses in relationship to other genes. Immunohistochemistry, western blot and liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) were used for identification of oxytocin and LNPEP in D15, 16 and 18 conceptuses. LNPEP was increased at D15 compared to D10, was immunolocalized in the equine trophectoderm and endoderm, and protein was confirmed by LC-MS/MS. Maximal abundance of OXT was at D21, and lowest on D12 and D14, but no protein was identified. OXTR abundance was highest on D14 and D21. LNPEP was correlated with PTGFR and PTGES on D12 and D14-D15, and high expression of PTGES, PTGS2 was found on D14, D15 and D21; PTGFR was found on D8 and D12-21. LNPEP may have a role in prostaglandin regulation and conceptus fixation by decreasing the availability of oxytocin. Further investigation on the role embryonic LNPEP during pregnancy is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Diel de Amorim
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Cornell University, 930 Campus Rd, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Claudia Klein
- Department of Veterinary Clinical and Diagnostic Science, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada;
| | - Robert Foster
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
| | - Lynn Dong
- Immunopathology Research and Development Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, 930 Campus Rd, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA;
| | - Maria Fernanda Lopez-Rodriguez
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B4, Canada;
| | - Claire Card
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, 52 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B4, Canada;
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Drews B, Milojevic V, Robles M, Wimel L, Dubois C, Vegas AR, Giller K, Chavatte-Palmer P, Daniel H, Giesbertz P, Bruckmaier R, Ulbrich SE. Moderate differences in plasma leptin in mares have no effect on either the amino acid or the fatty acid composition of the uterine fluid. J Equine Vet Sci 2021; 109:103827. [PMID: 34843890 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2021.103827] [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: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Female mammalian reproductive functions are closely linked to body condition and metabolic status. Energy homeostasis is regulated by endocrine hormones such as insulin, IGF-I, leptin and adiponectin via the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. These metabolic hormones and their receptors are also expressed in reproductive tissues and the embryo. We investigated the relationship between circulating leptin and the fatty acid (FA) and amino acid (AA) composition of the equine uterine fluid (UF) and peripheral blood plasma (BP) by using a mass spectrometry-based approach. UF and BP were collected from ten broodmares on days 6 and 7 post ovulation, respectively. The mares were retrospectively assigned to two groups according to their BP leptin concentrations (high leptin (> 1.6 ng/ml) versus low leptin (<0.8 ng/ml)). Specific AA and FA compositions for BP and UF were found with different levels of respective metabolite abundances. The main FAs in BP were stearic, palmitic and linoleic acid. In UF, the three most abundant FAs were eicosapentaenoic, arachidonic and stearic acid. The AA profile of BP was dominated by glycine, glutamine, serine and alanine, which were likewise among the highly abundant AAs in UF. In UF, glutamic acid had by far the highest concentration. Therefore, BP leptin concentration within a physiological range do not seem to affect the specific FA nor the AA composition of the UF. The composition of the UF may therefore be mediated by local rather than by peripheral metabolic hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Drews
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Vladimir Milojevic
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Morgane Robles
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France; Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, 94700, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - L Wimel
- IFCE, Station expérimentale de la Valade, 19370 Chamberet, France.
| | - C Dubois
- IFCE, Station expérimentale de la Valade, 19370 Chamberet, France.
| | - A Rudolf Vegas
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - K Giller
- ETH Zurich, Animal Nutrition, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - P Chavatte-Palmer
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, 78350, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - H Daniel
- Nutritional Physiology, Technische Universität München, Freising, Germany
| | - P Giesbertz
- Nutritional Physiology, Technische Universität München, Freising, Germany.
| | - Rupert Bruckmaier
- Veterinary Physiology, Department of Clinical Research and Veterinary Public Health, Vetsuisse Faculty Bern, University of Bern, Switzerland.
| | - S E Ulbrich
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland.
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12
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Spatiotemporal endometrial transcriptome analysis revealed the luminal epithelium as key player during initial maternal recognition of pregnancy in the mare. Sci Rep 2021; 11:22293. [PMID: 34785745 PMCID: PMC8595723 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-01785-3] [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: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
During the period of maternal recognition of pregnancy (MRP) in the mare, the embryo needs to signal its presence to the endometrium to prevent regression of the corpus luteum and prepare for establishment of pregnancy. This is achieved by mechanical stimuli and release of various signaling molecules by the equine embryo while migrating through the uterus. We hypothesized that embryo's signals induce changes in the endometrial gene expression in a highly cell type-specific manner. A spatiotemporal transcriptomics approach was applied combining laser capture microdissection and low-input-RNA sequencing of luminal and glandular epithelium (LE, GE), and stroma of biopsy samples collected from days 10-13 of pregnancy and the estrous cycle. Two comparisons were performed, samples derived from pregnancies with conceptuses ≥ 8 mm in diameter (comparison 1) and conceptuses ≤ 8 mm (comparison 2) versus samples from cyclic controls. The majority of gene expression changes was identified in LE and much lower numbers of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in GE and stroma. While 1253 DEGs were found for LE in comparison 1, only 248 were found in comparison 2. Data mining mainly focused on DEGs in LE and revealed regulation of genes related to prostaglandin transport, metabolism, and signaling, as well as transcription factor families that could be involved in MRP. In comparison to other mammalian species, differences in regulation of genes involved in epithelial barrier formation and conceptus attachment and implantation reflected the unique features of equine reproduction at the time of MRP at the molecular level.
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13
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Pennington PM, Splan RK, Jacobs RD, Wang Y, Wagner AL, Freeman EW, Pukazhenthi BS. Influence of Reproductive Status on Equine Serum Proteome: Preliminary Results. J Equine Vet Sci 2021; 105:103724. [PMID: 34607689 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2021.103724] [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: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The reproductive cycle and early pregnancy represent dynamic physiological states in mammals, but mechanisms involved in early pregnancy in the domestic horse remain poorly understood. Proteins in uterine secretions have been studied, but the proteome of peripheral serum during various reproductive states has not been investigated. This study characterized and compared the serum proteome in the domestic horse during various reproductive states. Serum was collected from three mares during: (1) estrus (day [d] -1; d 0 = ovulation), (2) diestrus (d 12.5, non-mated), (3) early pregnancy (d 12.5, pregnant), and (4) nonpregnant (d 12.5, unsuccessfully mated) states. Serum proteins in each sample were analyzed by Nano LC-MS/MS, and 308 proteins were identified. Differentially-expressed proteins (DEP; > 1.5-fold or < - 0.5-fold) were identified by comparison of protein relative abundance between reproductive states: (1) diestrus compared to estrus (DEP = 71), (2) pregnant compared to diestrus (DEP = 72), and (3) non-pregnant compared to pregnant (DEP = 81). DEPs were analyzed for biological function using PANTHER (pantherdb.org). Several pregnancy-specific proteins previously identified in equine pregnant histotroph, including Apolipoprotein A-I, Complement C3, and Histone H4, were detectable in the serum. The ability to detect these biomarkers in serum provides a more readily available option for investigating and understanding early equine pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parker M Pennington
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA; George Mason University, Fairfax, VA
| | - Rebecca K Splan
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA
| | - Robert D Jacobs
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA
| | - Yan Wang
- Proteomics Core Facility, College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD
| | | | | | - Budhan S Pukazhenthi
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA.
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14
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Fernández-Hernández P, Marinaro F, Sánchez-Calabuig MJ, García-Marín LJ, Bragado MJ, González-Fernández L, Macías-García B. The Proteome of Equine Oviductal Fluid Varies Before and After Ovulation: A Comparative Study. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:694247. [PMID: 34422946 PMCID: PMC8375304 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.694247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Equine fertilization cannot be performed in the laboratory as equine spermatozoa do not cross the oocyte's zona pellucida in vitro. Hence, a more profound study of equine oviductal fluid (OF) composition at the pre-ovulatory and post-ovulatory stages could help in understanding what components are required to achieve fertilization in horses. Our work aimed to elucidate the proteomic composition of equine OF at both stages. To do this, OF was obtained postmortem from oviducts of slaughtered mares ipsilateral to a pre-ovulatory follicle (n = 4) or a recent ovulation (n = 4); the samples were kept at −80°C until analysis. After protein extraction and isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) labeling, the samples were analyzed by nano-liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The analysis of the spectra resulted in the identification of a total of 1,173 proteins present in pre-ovulatory and post-ovulatory samples; among these, 691 were unique for Equus caballus. Proteins from post-ovulatory oviductal fluid were compared with the proteins from pre-ovulatory oviductal fluid and were categorized as upregulated (positive log fold change) or downregulated (negative log fold change). Fifteen proteins were found to be downregulated in the post-ovulatory fluid and 156 were upregulated in the post-ovulatory OF compared to the pre-ovulatory fluid; among the upregulated proteins, 87 were included in the metabolism of proteins pathway. The identified proteins were related to sperm–oviduct interaction, fertilization, and metabolism, among others. Our data reveal consistent differences in the proteome of equine OF prior to and after ovulation, helping to increase our understanding in the factors that promote fertilization and early embryo development in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Fernández-Hernández
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (Research Institute INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.,Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Federica Marinaro
- Stem Cell Therapy Unit, Jesús Usón Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre, Cáceres, Spain
| | - María Jesús Sánchez-Calabuig
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University Complutense of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Jesús García-Marín
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (Research Institute INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - María Julia Bragado
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (Research Institute INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Lauro González-Fernández
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (Research Institute INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Beatriz Macías-García
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (Research Institute INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.,Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
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15
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Gegenfurtner K, Fröhlich T, Flenkenthaler F, Kösters M, Fritz S, Desnoës O, Le Bourhis D, Salvetti P, Sandra O, Charpigny G, Mermillod P, Lonergan P, Wolf E, Arnold GJ. Genetic merit for fertility alters the bovine uterine luminal fluid proteome†. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:730-739. [PMID: 31786596 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the last decades, fertility of dairy cows has declined due to selection strategies focusing on milk yield. To study the effect of genetic merit for fertility on the proteome of the bovine uterine luminal fluid, Holstein heifers with low- and two groups of heifers with high-fertility index (high-fertility Holstein and Montbéliarde) were investigated. To focus on the maternal effect, heifers from all groups were synchronized and received on Day 7 high-quality embryos. Uterine luminal fluid from Day 19 pregnant heifers was analyzed in a holistic proteomic approach using nano-LC-MS/MS analysis combined with a label-free quantification approach. In total, 1737 proteins were identified, of which 597 differed significantly in abundance between the three groups. The vast majority of proteome differences was found comparing both high-fertility groups to the low-fertility Holstein group, showing that the genetic predisposition for fertility is prevalent regarding the uterine luminal fluid proteome. Evaluation of this dataset using bioinformatic tools revealed an assignment of higher abundant proteins in low-fertility Holstein to several metabolic processes, such as vitamin metabolic process, which comprises folate receptor alpha (FOLR1) and retinol-binding protein, indicating an involvement of disturbed metabolic processes in decreased fertility. Moreover, immune system-related proteins - lactotransferrin and chromogranin A - were enriched in low-fertility cows together with interferon tau 3 h and interferon tau-2. Our results indicate that the genetic merit for fertility leads to substantial quantitative differences at the level of proteins in uterine fluid of pregnant animals, thus altering the microenvironment for the early conceptus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Gegenfurtner
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis, Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Fröhlich
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis, Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany, Munich, Germany
| | - Florian Flenkenthaler
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis, Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany, Munich, Germany
| | - Miwako Kösters
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis, Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany, Munich, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Olivier Sandra
- Unités Mixtes de Recherche Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, Institut National de Recherche Agronomique (INRA), Environment and Agronomy (ENVA), Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - Gilles Charpigny
- Unités Mixtes de Recherche Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, Institut National de Recherche Agronomique (INRA), Environment and Agronomy (ENVA), Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- Institut National de Recherche Agronomique, UMR7247, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France
| | - Patrick Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Eckhard Wolf
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis, Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany, Munich, Germany.,Chair for Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Gene Center and Department of Veterinary Sciences, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich Germany
| | - Georg J Arnold
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis, Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany, Munich, Germany
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16
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Molecular Characterisation of Uterine Endometrial Proteins during Early Stages of Pregnancy in Pigs by MALDI TOF/TOF. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22136720. [PMID: 34201586 PMCID: PMC8267828 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22136720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The molecular mechanism underlying embryonic implantation is vital to understand the correct communications between endometrium and developing conceptus during early stages of pregnancy. This study’s objective was to determine molecular changes in the uterine endometrial proteome during the preimplantation and peri-implantation between 9 days (9D), 12 days (12D), and 16 days (16D) of pregnant Polish Large White (PLW) gilts. 2DE-MALDI-TOF/TOF and ClueGOTM approaches were employed to analyse the biological networks and molecular changes in porcine endometrial proteome during maternal recognition of pregnancy. A total of sixteen differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified using 2-DE gels and MALDI-TOF/TOF mass spectrometry. Comparison between 9D and 12D of pregnancy identified APOA1, CAPZB, LDHB, CCT5, ANXA4, CFB, TTR upregulated DEPs, and ANXA5, SMS downregulated DEPs. Comparison between 9D and 16D of pregnancy identified HP, APOA1, ACTB, CCT5, ANXA4, CFB upregulated DEPs and ANXA5, SMS, LDHB, ACTR3, HP, ENO3, OAT downregulated DEPs. However, a comparison between 12D and 16D of pregnancy identified HP, ACTB upregulated DEPs, and CRYM, ANXA4, ANXA5, CAPZB, LDHB, ACTR3, CCT5, ENO3, OAT, TTR down-regulated DEPs. Outcomes of this study revealed key proteins and their interactions with metabolic pathways involved in the recognition and establishment of early pregnancy in PLW gilts.
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17
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Swegen A. Maternal recognition of pregnancy in the mare: does it exist and why do we care? Reproduction 2021; 161:R139-R155. [PMID: 33957605 PMCID: PMC8183633 DOI: 10.1530/rep-20-0437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Maternal recognition of pregnancy (MRP) is a process by which an early conceptus signals its presence to the maternal system and prevents the lysis of the corpus luteum, thus ensuring a maternal milieu supportive of pregnancy continuation. It is a fundamental aspect of reproductive biology, yet in the horse, the mechanism underlying MRP remains unknown. This review seeks to address some of the controversies surrounding the evidence and theories of MRP in the equine species, such as the idea that the horse does not conform to the MRP paradigm established in other species or that equine MRP involves a mechanical, rather than chemical, signal. The review examines the challenges of studying this particularly clandestine phenomenon along with the new tools in scientific research that will drive this quest forward in coming years, and discusses the value of knowledge gleaned along this path in the context of clinical applications for improving breeding outcomes in the horse industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleona Swegen
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
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18
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Rivera Del Alamo MM, Katila T, Palviainen M, Reilas T. Effects of intrauterine devices on proteins in the uterine lavage fluid of mares. Theriogenology 2021; 165:1-9. [PMID: 33601088 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Intrauterine devices block luteolysis in cyclic mares, but the underlying mechanism is unknown. To clarify the mechanisms, the protein profile of the endometrial secretome was analyzed using two-dimensional difference gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE). Twenty-seven mares were classified according to whether they were inseminated (AI) or had an intrauterine device (IUD), a water-filled plastic sphere, inserted into the uterus on Day 3 after ovulation. Uterine lavage fluids were collected on Day 15 from pregnant inseminated mares (AI-P; n = 8), non-pregnant inseminated mares (AI-N; n = 4), and mares with IUD (n = 15). The IUD group was further divided into prolonged (IUD-P; n = 7) and normal luteal phase (IUD-N; n = 8) groups on the basis of ultrasound examinations, serum levels of progesterone and PGFM on Days 14 and 15, and COX-2 results on Day 15. Four mares from each group were selected for the 2D-DIGE analyses. Ten proteins had significantly different abundance among the groups, nine of the proteins were identified. Malate dehydrogenase 1, increased sodium tolerance 1, aldehyde dehydrogenase 1A1, prostaglandin reductase 1, albumin and hemoglobin were highest in pregnant mares; T-complex protein 1 was highest in non-pregnant mares; and annexin A1 and 6-phosphogluconolactonase were highest in IUD mares. The results suggest that the mechanism behind the intrauterine devices is likely related to inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Rivera Del Alamo
- Unit of Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Travessera Dels Turons S/n Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain.
| | - T Katila
- Department of Production Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Finland.
| | - M Palviainen
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Finland.
| | - T Reilas
- Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), Jokioinen, Finland.
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19
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Diel de Amorim M, Khan FA, Chenier TS, Scholtz EL, Hayes MA. Analysis of the uterine flush fluid proteome of healthy mares and mares with endometritis or fibrotic endometrial degeneration. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 32:572-581. [PMID: 31987068 DOI: 10.1071/rd19085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the differences in the uterine flush fluid proteome between healthy mares and mares with endometritis or fibrotic endometrial degeneration (FED). Uterine flush fluid samples were collected from healthy mares (n=8; oestrus n=5 and dioestrus n=3) and mares with endometritis (n=23; oestrus n=14 and dioestrus n=9) or FED (n=7; oestrus n=6 and dioestrus n=1). Proteomic analysis was performed using label-free liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Of 216 proteins identified during oestrus, 127 were common to all three groups, one protein was exclusively detected in healthy mares, 47 proteins were exclusively detected in mares with endometritis and four proteins were exclusively detected in mares with FED. Of 188 proteins identified during dioestrus, 113 proteins were common between healthy mares and mares with endometritis, eight proteins were exclusively detected in healthy mares and 67 proteins were exclusively detected in mares with endometritis. Quantitative analysis revealed a subset of proteins differing in abundance between the three groups during oestrus and between healthy mares and mares with endometritis during dioestrus. These results provide a springboard for evaluation of specific proteins as biomarkers of uterine health and disease and for investigation of their roles in the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Diel de Amorim
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON, N1G2W1, Canada; and Present address: Department of Clinical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA; and Corresponding authors. Emails: ;
| | - Firdous A Khan
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON, N1G2W1, Canada; and Department of Large Animal Medicine and Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, True Blue, St. George's, Grenada; and Present address: Department of Large Animal Medicine and Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, True Blue, St. George's, Grenada; and Corresponding authors. Emails: ;
| | - Tracey S Chenier
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON, N1G2W1, Canada
| | - Elizabeth L Scholtz
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON, N1G2W1, Canada
| | - M Anthony Hayes
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON, N1G2W1, Canada
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20
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Antczak DF, Allen WRT. Placentation in Equids. ADVANCES IN ANATOMY, EMBRYOLOGY, AND CELL BIOLOGY 2021; 234:91-128. [PMID: 34694479 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-77360-1_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
This chapter focuses on the early stages of placental development in horses and their relatives in the genus Equus and highlights unique features of equid reproductive biology. The equine placenta is classified as a noninvasive, epitheliochorial type. However, equids have evolved a minor component of invasive trophoblast, the chorionic girdle and endometrial cups, which links the equine placenta with the highly invasive hemochorial placentae of rodents and, particularly, with the primate placenta. Two types of fetus-to-mother signaling in equine pregnancy are mediated by the invasive equine trophoblast cells. First, endocrinological signaling mediated by equine chorionic gonadotrophin (eCG) drives maternal progesterone production to support the equine conceptus between days 40 and 100 of gestation. Only in primates and equids does the placenta produce a gonadotrophin, but the evolutionary paths taken by these two groups of mammals to produce this placental signal were very different. Second, florid expression of paternal major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules by invading chorionic girdle cells stimulates strong maternal anti-fetal antibody responses that may play a role in the development of immunological tolerance that protects the conceptus from destruction by the maternal immune system. In humans, invasive extravillous trophoblasts also express MHC class I molecules, but the loci involved, and their likely function, are different from those of the horse. Comparison of the cellular and molecular events in these disparate species provides outstanding examples of convergent evolution and co-option in mammalian pregnancy and highlights how studies of the equine placenta have produced new insights into reproductive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas F Antczak
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA.
| | - W R Twink Allen
- Sharjah Equine Hospital, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Robinson College, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- The Paul Mellon Laboratory of Equine Reproduction, 'Brunswick', Newmarket, Suffolk, UK
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21
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Camacho CA, Santos GDO, Caballeros JE, Cazales N, Ramirez CJ, Vidigal PMP, Ramos HJDO, Barros E, Mattos RC. Uterine infusion of conceptus fragments changes the protein profile from cyclic mares. Anim Reprod 2020; 17:e20200552. [PMID: 33791032 PMCID: PMC7995263 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2020-0552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This experiment aimed to compare at day seven after ovulation, the protein profile of uterine fluid in cyclic mares with mares infused two days before with Day 13 conceptus fragments. Experimental animals were ten healthy cyclic mares, examined daily to detect ovulation (Day 0) as soon as estrus was confirmed. On day seven, after ovulation, uterine fluid was collected, constituting the Cyclic group (n = 10). The same mares were examined in the second cycle until ovulation was detected. On day five, after ovulation, fragments from a previously collected concepti were infused into each mare's uterus. Two days after infusion, uterine fluid was collected, constituting the Fragment group (n = 10). Two-dimensional electrophoresis technique processed uterine fluid samples. A total of 373 spots were detected. MALDI-TOF/TOF and NanoUHPLC-QTOF mass spectrometry identified twenty spots with differences in abundance between the Cyclic and Fragment group. Thirteen proteins were identified, with different abundance between groups. Identified proteins may be related to embryo-maternal communication, which involves adhesion, nutrition, endothelial cell proliferation, transport, and immunological tolerance. In conclusion, conceptus fragments signalized changes in the protein profile of uterine fluid seven days after ovulation in comparison to the observed at Day 7 in the same cyclic mares.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesar Augusto Camacho
- Laboratório de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
| | - Gabriel de Oliveira Santos
- Laboratório de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
| | - Jorge Emilio Caballeros
- Laboratório de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
| | - Nicolas Cazales
- Laboratório de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
- Facultad de Veterinária, Universidad de la República - UDELAR, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Camilo José Ramirez
- Núcleo de Análise de Biomoléculas, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brasil
| | | | | | - Edvaldo Barros
- Núcleo de Análise de Biomoléculas, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, Brasil
| | - Rodrigo Costa Mattos
- Laboratório de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
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22
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Gegenfurtner K, Fröhlich T, Kösters M, Mermillod P, Locatelli Y, Fritz S, Salvetti P, Forde N, Lonergan P, Wolf E, Arnold GJ. Influence of metabolic status and genetic merit for fertility on proteomic composition of bovine oviduct fluid†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:893-905. [PMID: 31347661 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The oviduct plays a crucial role in fertilization and early embryo development providing the microenvironment for oocyte, spermatozoa, and early embryo. Since dairy cow fertility declined steadily over the last decades, reasons for early embryonic loss have gained increasing interest. Analyzing two animal models, this study aimed to investigate the impact of genetic predisposition for fertility and of metabolic stress on the protein composition of oviduct fluid. A metabolic model comprised maiden Holstein heifers and postpartum lactating (Lact) and non-lactating (Dry) cows, while a genetic model consisted of heifers from the Montbéliarde breed and Holstein heifers with low- and high-fertility index. In a holistic proteomic analysis of oviduct fluid from all groups using nano-liquid chromatography tandem-mass spectrometry analysis and label-free quantification, we were able to identify 1976 proteins, among which 143 showed abundance alterations in the pairwise comparisons within both models. Most differentially abundant proteins were revealed between low fertility Holstein and Montbéliarde (52) in the genetic model and between lactating and maiden Holstein (19) in the metabolic model, demonstrating a substantial effect of genetic predisposition for fertility and metabolic stress on the oviduct fluid proteome. Functional classification of affected proteins revealed actin binding, translation, and immune system processes as prominent gene ontology (GO) clusters. Notably, Actin-related protein 2/3 complex subunit 1B and the three immune system-related proteins SERPIND1 protein, immunoglobulin kappa locus protein, and Alpha-1-acid glycoprotein were affected in both models, suggesting that abundance changes of immune-related proteins in oviduct fluid play an important role for early embryonic loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Gegenfurtner
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Fröhlich
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Miwako Kösters
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- Institut National de Recherche Agronomique (INRA), UMR7247, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France
| | - Yann Locatelli
- Institut National de Recherche Agronomique (INRA), UMR7247, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France
| | | | - P Salvetti
- Allice, Station de Phénotypage, Nouzilly, France
| | - Niamh Forde
- Division of Reproduction and Early Development, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Patrick Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Eckhard Wolf
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.,Chair for Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Gene Center and Department of Veterinary Sciences, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Georg J Arnold
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis (LAFUGA), Gene Center, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
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23
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Thompson RE, Premanandan C, Pukazhenthi BS, Whitlock BK. A review of in vivo and in vitro studies of the mare endometrium. Anim Reprod Sci 2020; 222:106605. [PMID: 32987223 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2020.106605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The inner layer of the uterus, the endometrium, is responsible and necessary for many reproductive functions. Normal reproductive cyclicity, maternal recognition of pregnancy, maternal interaction with the embryo, and interaction of the reproductive tract with pathogens are dependent on the endometrium. Although most studies have been conducted in vivo using live animals, recent advances in in vitro approaches could facilitate future research in a laboratory setting with minimal effect on animals. Many reproductive studies have been performed in vivo and in vitro in equids, but new in vitro methods to study the endometrium of mares remain unexplored. In this review, there is a description of the normal anatomy and physiology of the mare endometrium in vivo, in vitro endometrial cell culture techniques that have been previously described for the mare, and opportunities for future reproductive research using in vitro methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riley E Thompson
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA; Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA, USA
| | | | - Budhan S Pukazhenthi
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA, USA.
| | - Brian K Whitlock
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA.
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24
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Khan FA, Diel de Amorim M, Chenier TS. Qualitative analysis and functional classification of the uterine proteome of mares in oestrus and dioestrus. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:1511-1519. [PMID: 32772405 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13800] [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: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Quantitative analysis of the uterine flush fluid proteome of mares in oestrus and dioestrus has been previously reported. The objectives of this study were to: a) evaluate qualitative differences in the uterine flush fluid proteome between mares in oestrus and mares in dioestrus and b) perform a functional classification of proteins either unique to each stage or common between the two stages. Uterine flush fluid samples were collected from 8 light breed mares in either oestrus (n = 5) or dioestrus (n = 3). Proteomic analysis of the samples was conducted using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Proteins exclusively detected in oestrus or dioestrus and those common to both stages were identified using the Scaffold software (version 4.4.8, Proteome Software Inc., Portland, OR). The identified proteins were classified into gene ontology (GO) categories (cellular component [CC], molecular function [MF] and biological process [BP]) using the PANTHER (www.pantherdb.org) classification system version 14.0. Of 172 proteins identified, 51 and 28 were exclusively detected in mares in oestrus and dioestrus, respectively, and 93 proteins were common to both stages. The most represented terms in various GO categories were similar among the three subsets of proteins. The most represented CC terms were extracellular region and cell, the most represented MF terms were catalytic activity and binding, and the most represented BP terms were metabolic process and cellular process. In conclusion, proteomic analysis of the uterine flush fluid enabled the identification of subsets of proteins unique to oestrus or dioestrus, or common to both stages. The results of this study can serve as a baseline for future research focused on finding stage-specific protein markers or evaluating differences in the uterine flush fluid proteome between normal mares and those with uterine disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firdous A Khan
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada.,Department of Large Animal Medicine and Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, St. George's, Grenada
| | - Mariana Diel de Amorim
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Tracey S Chenier
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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25
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Luongo C, González-Brusi L, Cots-Rodríguez P, Izquierdo-Rico MJ, Avilés M, García-Vázquez FA. Sperm Proteome after Interaction with Reproductive Fluids in Porcine: From the Ejaculation to the Fertilization Site. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21176060. [PMID: 32842715 PMCID: PMC7570189 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21176060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ejaculated sperm are exposed to different environments before encountering the oocyte. However, how the sperm proteome changes during this transit remains unsolved. This study aimed to identify proteomic changes in boar sperm after incubation with male (seminal plasma, SP) and/or female (uterine fluid, UF; and oviductal fluid, OF) reproductive fluids. The following experimental groups were analyzed: (1) SP: sperm + 20% SP; (2) UF: sperm + 20% UF; (3) OF: sperm + 20% OF; (4) SP + UF: sperm + 20% SP + 20% UF; and (5) SP+OF: sperm + 20% SP + 20% OF. The proteome analysis, performed by HPLC-MS/MS, allowed the identification of 265 proteins. A total of 69 proteins were detected in the UF, SP, and SP + UF groups, and 102 proteins in the OF, SP, and SP + OF groups. Our results showed a higher number of proteins when sperm were incubated with only one fluid than when they were co-incubated with two fluids. Additionally, the number of sperm-interacting proteins from the UF group was lower than the OF group. In conclusion, the interaction of sperm with reproductive fluids alters its proteome. The description of sperm-interacting proteins in porcine species after co-incubation with male and/or female reproductive fluids may be useful to understand sperm transport, selection, capacitation, or fertilization phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Luongo
- Department of Physiology, Veterinary School, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Leopoldo González-Brusi
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.G.-B.); (P.C.-R.); (M.J.I.-R.)
| | - Paula Cots-Rodríguez
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.G.-B.); (P.C.-R.); (M.J.I.-R.)
| | - Mª José Izquierdo-Rico
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.G.-B.); (P.C.-R.); (M.J.I.-R.)
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, IMIB-Arrixaca, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Manuel Avilés
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (L.G.-B.); (P.C.-R.); (M.J.I.-R.)
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, IMIB-Arrixaca, 30100 Murcia, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.A.); (F.A.G.-V.)
| | - Francisco Alberto García-Vázquez
- Department of Physiology, Veterinary School, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain;
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, IMIB-Arrixaca, 30100 Murcia, Spain
- Correspondence: (M.A.); (F.A.G.-V.)
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26
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Camacho CA, Estradé MJ, Cazales N, Caballeros JE, Fiala-Rechsteiner SM, Neves AP, Mattos RC. Histomorphometric and vascular changes in equine endometrium after the infusion of conceptus fragments. Anim Reprod 2020; 17:e20200006. [PMID: 32714458 PMCID: PMC7375867 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2020-0006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This experiment aimed to verify if the proteins present in a 13th day conceptus induce changes in the equine endometrial ultra-structure, histology, and vascularization, two days after its infusion. Ten healthy cyclic mares were used. Once estrus was confirmed, mares were examined daily to detect ovulation (day 0). After ovulation, mares were examined daily until day seven by transrectal palpation and B-mode and Doppler ultrasonography. In this first cycle, intrauterine biopsies were collected at day seven after ovulation, constituting the Cyclic group (n = 10). In the second cycle, the same mares daily were examined until ovulation was detected. After ovulation, mares were examined daily by transrectal palpation and B-mode and Doppler ultrasonography until day 7. On day 5, after ovulation, fragments from previously collected 13-day-old concepti were infused into the uterus of each mare. Intrauterine biopsies were collected at day 7 in all mares (n = 10), constituting the Fragment group. The percentage of ciliated and flattened cells decreased in the Fragment group. Protruded cells, superficial and intraglandular secretion, glandular lumen and diameter, blood vessel diameter, endometrial vascularization, and immune cells were higher in the Fragment group than in the Cyclic group. In summary, proteins of 13th day equine conceptus fragments infused at day five after ovulation signaled histological and vascular changes in the endometrium at the 7th day after ovulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesar Augusto Camacho
- Laboratório de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
| | - Maria José Estradé
- Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Nicolás Cazales
- Laboratório de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil.,Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Jorge Emilio Caballeros
- Laboratório de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
| | | | | | - Rodrigo Costa Mattos
- Laboratório de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
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27
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Itze-Mayrhofer C, Brem G. Quantitative proteomic strategies to study reproduction in farm animals: Female reproductive fluids. J Proteomics 2020; 225:103884. [PMID: 32593762 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2020.103884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Reproductive fluids from the female reproductive tract are gaining attention for their potential to support and optimize reproductive processes, including gamete maturation and embryo culture in vitro. Quantitative proteomics is a powerful way to decipher the proteome of reproductive tract fluids and to identify biologically relevant proteins. The present review describes proteomic strategies for analysing female reproductive fluid proteins. In addition, it considers the strategies for the preparation of oviductal, uterine and follicular fluid samples. Finally, it highlights the main results of quantitative proteomic studies, providing insights into the biological processes related to reproductive biology in farm animals. SIGNIFICANCE: Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) have become vitally important for farm animal breeding and much effort is going into the optimization and refinement of the techniques. There are also attempts to imitate physiological conditions by adding reproductive fluids or individual fluid proteins to improve in vitro procedures. A detailed knowledge of the reproductive fluid proteomes is indispensable. The present review summarizes the most widely used quantitative proteomic approaches for the analysis of fluids from the female reproductive tract and highlights the potential of quantitative proteomics to delineate reproductive processes and identify candidate proteins for ARTs in farm animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corina Itze-Mayrhofer
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Group Molecular Reproduction IFA-Tulln, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Gottfried Brem
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, Austria
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28
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Kölle S, Hughes B, Steele H. Early embryo-maternal communication in the oviduct: A review. Mol Reprod Dev 2020; 87:650-662. [PMID: 32506761 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
An intact embryo-maternal communication is critical for the establishment of a successful pregnancy. To date, a huge number of studies have been performed describing the complex process of embryo-maternal signaling within the uterus. However, recent studies indicate that the early embryo communicates with the oviductal cells shortly after fertilizationand that this is important for the successful establishment of pregnancy. Only if the early embryo is capable to signal the mother within a precise timeframe and to garner a response, will the embryo be able to survive and reach the uterus. This review will give an overview of all the experimental designs which have investigated embryo-maternal interaction in the oviduct. In addition to that, it will provide a comprehensive analysis of the findings to date elucidating the morphological and molecular changes in the oviduct which are induced by the presence of the early embryo highlighting how the tubal responses affect embryo development and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Kölle
- Health Sciences Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Barbara Hughes
- Health Sciences Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Heather Steele
- Health Sciences Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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29
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Gibson C, de Ruijter-Villani M, Bauersachs S, Stout TA. Asynchronous Embryo Transfer Followed by Comparative Transcriptomic Analysis of Conceptus Membranes and Endometrium Identifies Processes Important to the Establishment of Equine Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21072562. [PMID: 32272720 PMCID: PMC7177982 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21072562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Preimplantation horse conceptuses require nutrients and signals from histotroph, the composition of which is regulated by luteal progesterone and conceptus-secreted factors. To distinguish progesterone and conceptus effects we shortened the period of endometrial progesterone-priming by asynchronous embryo transfer. Day 8 embryos were transferred to synchronous (day 8) or asynchronous (day 3) recipients, and RNA sequencing was performed on endometrium and conceptuses recovered 6 and 11 days later (embryo days 14 and 19). Asynchrony resulted in many more differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in conceptus membranes (3473) than endometrium (715). Gene ontology analysis identified upregulation in biological processes related to organogenesis and preventing apoptosis in synchronous conceptuses on day 14, and in cell adhesion and migration on day 19. Asynchrony also resulted in large numbers of DEGs related to 'extracellular exosome'. In endometrium, genes involved in immunity, the inflammatory response, and apoptosis regulation were upregulated during synchronous pregnancy and, again, many genes related to extracellular exosome were differentially expressed. Interestingly, only 14 genes were differentially expressed in endometrium recovered 6 days after synchronous versus 11 days after asynchronous transfer (day 14 recipient in both). Among these, KNG1 and IGFBP3 were consistently upregulated in synchronous endometrium. Furthermore bradykinin, an active peptide cleaved from KNG1, stimulated prostaglandin release by cultured trophectoderm cells. The horse conceptus thus responds to a negatively asynchronous uterus by extensively adjusting its transcriptome, whereas the endometrial transcriptome is modified only subtly by a more advanced conceptus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Gibson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584CM Utrecht, The Netherlands; (C.G.); (M.d.R.-V.)
| | - Marta de Ruijter-Villani
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584CM Utrecht, The Netherlands; (C.G.); (M.d.R.-V.)
| | - Stefan Bauersachs
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty Zurich, University of Zurich, 8315 Lindau (ZH), Switzerland;
| | - Tom A.E. Stout
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584CM Utrecht, The Netherlands; (C.G.); (M.d.R.-V.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +0031-30-2533080; Fax: +0031-30-2537970
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30
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Jaworska J, Jaworski Z, McDonnell SM, Górecka-Bruzda A. Harem stallion changes are not associated with diminished reproductive performance of females in semi-feral Konik polski horses (Equus caballus). Theriogenology 2020; 151:1-6. [PMID: 32251935 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.03.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Infanticide, related to a stallion's aggression toward a foal sired by another stallion, and feticide related to a new stallion's aggression and/or pheromonal influence (the Bruce effect) inducing loss of a fetus sired by another stallion, a female's counteraction to infanticide, have been proposed for domestic horses (Equus caballus) in human-managed conditions. The aim of the present study was, in conditions close to natural, to investigate the influence of the natural succession of a harem stallion on the mares' subsequent reproductive performance. In a population of semi-feral Konik polski horses observed for 31 years (reproductive seasons) in 8 bands, harem stallion changed 10 times. These changes involved 26 out of 48 mares and 60 out of 609 observed mare-seasons (MS, a year in which a mare experienced a reproductive event). Binary distribution and log link function were assumed. The marginal model included the classification variable (SCH) and the continuous variables (age of the mare and calendar year of reproductive event (birth of a live foal, abortion, foals lost or barrenness) in a given MS was analyzed with generalized linear mixed model. The reproductive fitness of mares and their reproductive success (foal surviving ≥ 1 year), did not differ between MS with and without SCH. Older females were more likely to stay barren, with chances increasing by 21% with each successive year; and less likely to give birth to a foal (13% decrease of chance), and rear a foal to one year of age (12% decrease of chance). The age did not affect the probability of abortions. Of the 26 MS when mares were pregnant when the stallion had changed, there were 25 healthy foals born. For the entire 31 years of monitoring, no aggression toward any foal was observed and all foals that were born in the harem of a new, succeeding stallion successfully reached adulthood. Due to the lack of incidents of infanticide and the lack of evidence suggesting that the presence of a new harem stallion leads to the termination of pregnancies sired by another stallion, the Bruce effect was not confirmed as a biological strategy to reduce investment in pregnancy and potential infanticide in studied population of semi-feral horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Jaworska
- Department of Gamete and Embryo Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland.
| | - Zbigniew Jaworski
- University of Warmia and Mazury, Department of Horse Breeding, Faculty of Animal Bioengineering, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Sue M McDonnell
- Havemeyer Equine Behavior Laboratory, Section of Reproduction and Behavior, Department of Clinical Studies, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, New Bolton Center, Kennett Square, PA, 19348, USA
| | - Aleksandra Górecka-Bruzda
- Department of Animal Behavior, Institute of Genetics and Animal Breeding, Polish Academy of Sciences, Magdalenka, Poland
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31
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Pinto CRF. Impact of the corpus luteum on survival of the developing embryo and early pregnancy in mares. Theriogenology 2020; 150:374-381. [PMID: 32093963 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
It has been more than a hundred years that studies aiming to elucidate the processes involved in cyclicity and pregnancy pointed out the requirement of ovaries and corpora lutea for embryo survival and pregnancy establishment. For horses, luteal progesterone is essential for pregnancy only during the first trimester. This progestational support is complex among domestic animals as ovarian luteal function is further enhanced by the LH-action role of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) starting ∼ on Day 35 of pregnancy. Increased eCG secretion leads to the formation of supplementary corpora lutea resulting from follicles that luteinize (accessory corpora lutea) or ovulate (secondary corpora lutea), thus increasing concentrations of blood progesterone. Physiological details of progesterone-driven embryo-maternal interactions continue to be elucidated. In recent years, researchers studying the transcriptomes and secretomes of uterine tubes, endometrium and early embryo provided insight into the composition of molecular and cellular events that enable embryo survival and remodeling of the endometrium before a functional placenta is formed. Aluteal pregnancy models have also shown that while fertilization and early embryo development until the early blastocyst stage can occur under a progesterone-deprived environment, dysregulation of important pregnancy-related genes occur; embryo development is compromised unless progestin supplementation is provided once the embryo arrives into the uterus. As the body of knowledge on embryo-maternal interactions in the horse continues to grow, a fact remains true: luteal support is essential for embryo survival mainly at the uterine stage, driving directly or indirectly gene expression that promotes adequate embryo-maternal physiological interactions until a full competent placenta is formed, resulting in optimal chances of delivering a live foal at term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos R F Pinto
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, 70803, USA.
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32
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Chen L, Pan X, Guo W, Gan Z, Zhang YH, Niu Z, Huang T, Cai YD. Investigating the gene expression profiles of cells in seven embryonic stages with machine learning algorithms. Genomics 2020; 112:2524-2534. [PMID: 32045671 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2020.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 12/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The development of embryonic cells involves several continuous stages, and some genes are related to embryogenesis. To date, few studies have systematically investigated changes in gene expression profiles during mammalian embryogenesis. In this study, a computational analysis using machine learning algorithms was performed on the gene expression profiles of mouse embryonic cells at seven stages. First, the profiles were analyzed through a powerful Monte Carlo feature selection method for the generation of a feature list. Second, increment feature selection was applied on the list by incorporating two classification algorithms: support vector machine (SVM) and repeated incremental pruning to produce error reduction (RIPPER). Through SVM, we extracted several latent gene biomarkers, indicating the stages of embryonic cells, and constructed an optimal SVM classifier that produced a nearly perfect classification of embryonic cells. Furthermore, some interesting rules were accessed by the RIPPER algorithm, suggesting different expression patterns for different stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China; College of Information Engineering, Shanghai Maritime University, Shanghai 201306, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of PMMP, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China.
| | - XiaoYong Pan
- Institute of Image Processing and Pattern Recognition, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Key Laboratory of System Control and Information Processing, Ministry of Education of China, 200240 Shanghai, China.
| | - Wei Guo
- Institute of Health Sciences, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.
| | - Zijun Gan
- Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.
| | - Yu-Hang Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China; Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Zhibin Niu
- College of Intelligence and Computing, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China.
| | - Tao Huang
- Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.
| | - Yu-Dong Cai
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China.
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33
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Banliat C, Tsikis G, Labas V, Teixeira-Gomes AP, Com E, Lavigne R, Pineau C, Guyonnet B, Mermillod P, Saint-Dizier M. Identification of 56 Proteins Involved in Embryo-Maternal Interactions in the Bovine Oviduct. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21020466. [PMID: 31940782 PMCID: PMC7013689 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21020466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The bovine embryo develops in contact with the oviductal fluid (OF) during the first 4–5 days of pregnancy. The aim of this study was to decipher the protein interactions occurring between the developing embryo and surrounding OF. In-vitro produced 4–6 cell and morula embryos were incubated or not (controls) in post-ovulatory OF (OF-treated embryos) and proteins were then analyzed and quantified by high resolution mass spectrometry (MS) in both embryo groups and in OF. A comparative analysis of MS data allowed the identification and quantification of 56 embryo-interacting proteins originated from the OF, including oviductin (OVGP1) and several annexins (ANXA1, ANXA2, ANXA4) as the most abundant ones. Some embryo-interacting proteins were developmental stage-specific, showing a modulating role of the embryo in protein interactions. Three interacting proteins (OVGP1, ANXA1 and PYGL) were immunolocalized in the perivitelline space and in blastomeres, showing that OF proteins were able to cross the zona pellucida and be taken up by the embryo. Interacting proteins were involved in a wide range of functions, among which metabolism and cellular processes were predominant. This study identified for the first time a high number of oviductal embryo-interacting proteins, paving the way for further targeted studies of proteins potentially involved in the establishment of pregnancy in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Banliat
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, UMR PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (G.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
- Union Evolution, 35530 Noyal-sur-Vilaine, France;
| | - Guillaume Tsikis
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, UMR PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (G.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
| | - Valérie Labas
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, UMR PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (G.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
- INRAE, Université de Tours, CHU de Tours, Plate-forme CIRE, PAIB, 37380 Nouzilly, France;
| | - Ana-Paula Teixeira-Gomes
- INRAE, Université de Tours, CHU de Tours, Plate-forme CIRE, PAIB, 37380 Nouzilly, France;
- INRAE, UMR 1282 ISP, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Emmanuelle Com
- Inserm, University of Rennes, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail)—UMR_S 1085, 35000 Rennes, France; (E.C.); (R.L.); (C.P.)
- Protim, Inserm U1085, Irset, Campus de Beaulieu, University of Rennes 1, Proteomics Core Facility, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Régis Lavigne
- Inserm, University of Rennes, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail)—UMR_S 1085, 35000 Rennes, France; (E.C.); (R.L.); (C.P.)
- Protim, Inserm U1085, Irset, Campus de Beaulieu, University of Rennes 1, Proteomics Core Facility, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Charles Pineau
- Inserm, University of Rennes, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail)—UMR_S 1085, 35000 Rennes, France; (E.C.); (R.L.); (C.P.)
- Protim, Inserm U1085, Irset, Campus de Beaulieu, University of Rennes 1, Proteomics Core Facility, 35000 Rennes, France
| | | | - Pascal Mermillod
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, UMR PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (G.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- INRAE, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, UMR PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (G.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
- Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Department Agrosciences, University of Tours, 37000 Tours, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-2-47-42-75-08
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Smits K, Gansemans Y, Tilleman L, Van Nieuwerburgh F, Van De Velde M, Gerits I, Ververs C, Roels K, Govaere J, Peelman L, Deforce D, Van Soom A. Maternal Recognition of Pregnancy in the Horse: Are MicroRNAs the Secret Messengers? Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21020419. [PMID: 31936511 PMCID: PMC7014256 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21020419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 12/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The signal for maternal recognition of pregnancy (MRP) has still not been identified in the horse. High-throughput molecular biology at the embryo-maternal interface has substantially contributed to the knowledge on pathways affected during MRP, but an integrated study in which proteomics, transcriptomics and miRNA expression can be linked directly is currently lacking. The aim of this study was to provide such analysis. Endometrial biopsies, uterine fluid, embryonic tissues, and yolk sac fluid were collected 13 days after ovulation during pregnant and control cycles from the same mares. Micro-RNA-Sequencing was performed on all collected samples, mRNA-Sequencing on the same tissue samples and mass spectrometry was conducted previously on the same fluid samples. Differential expression of miRNA, mRNA and proteins showed high conformity with literature and confirmed involvement in pregnancy establishment, embryo quality, steroid synthesis and prostaglandin regulation, but the link between differential miRNAs and their targets was limited and did not indicate the identity of an unequivocal signal for MRP in the horse. Differential expression at the embryo-maternal interface was prominent, highlighting a potential role of miRNAs in embryo-maternal communication during early pregnancy in the horse. These data provide a strong basis for future targeted studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrien Smits
- Department of Reproduction, Obstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
- Correspondence:
| | - Yannick Gansemans
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Laurentijn Tilleman
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Filip Van Nieuwerburgh
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Margot Van De Velde
- Department of Reproduction, Obstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Ilse Gerits
- Department of Reproduction, Obstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Cyrillus Ververs
- Department of Reproduction, Obstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Kim Roels
- Department of Reproduction, Obstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Jan Govaere
- Department of Reproduction, Obstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Luc Peelman
- Animal Genetics Lab, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Heidestraat 19, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Dieter Deforce
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Ann Van Soom
- Department of Reproduction, Obstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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35
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Lancheros-Buitrago J, Rodriguez-Villamil P, Gregory J, Bastos H, Camacho CA, Caballeros JE, Cazales N, Barros E, José de Jesus Silva M, Pimentel A, Mattos RC. Ceruloplasmin, serotransferrin and albumin presented different abundance in mares' uterine fluid five days after insemination. Theriogenology 2019; 148:194-200. [PMID: 31757481 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Revised: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Characterization of the uterine proteome before the entry of the conceptus to the uterus is essential to know the factors involved in the physiological events of gestation. The objective of the study was to compare proteomic profile of uterine fluid collected on day 5 post ovulation of cyclic and inseminated mares. Samples of endometrial secretion were recovered over 2 cycles during the fifth day post ovulation. The first cycle constituted the Cyclic group and in the following cycle, the same mares were inseminated and considered as the Inseminated group. All the samples were subjected to two-dimensional electrophoresis (2D-PAGE). A total of 107 spots were visualized by 2D-PAGE. Three spots with differences in abundance between the inseminated and cyclic mares and with presence in at least 80% in one of the groups were selected and identified. The selected spots were extracted, digested by trypsin and analyzed by matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight/time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF/TOF) mass spectrometry (MS) for protein identification. Three proteins were identified: ceruloplasmin (CP) serotransferrin (TF) and albumin (ALB). The identified proteins in this study were related to iron metabolism and immunological tolerance suggesting that changes in their abundance during the 5 days after ovulation are probably a signaling mechanism of the potential equine conceptus to the maternal immune system for its immunological recognition. Probably changes in abundance of CP, ALB and TF represent a mechanism of endometrial preparation for the maternal recognition, attachment and development of a potential equine embryo. There is also evidence to support an alternative hypothesis suggesting that protein changes are inflammatory events, resulting from a previous inflammation due to residual seminal effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Joana Gregory
- REPROLAB - Faculdade de Veterinária, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Henrique Bastos
- REPROLAB - Faculdade de Veterinária, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | | | | | - Nicolas Cazales
- REPROLAB - Faculdade de Veterinária, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Facultad de Veterinaria - UDELAR, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Edvaldo Barros
- NuBioMol - Núcleo de Análise de Biomoléculas, UFV, Viçosa, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Anita Pimentel
- REPROLAB - Faculdade de Veterinária, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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36
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Evans J, Rai A, Nguyen HPT, Poh QH, Elglass K, Simpson RJ, Salamonsen LA, Greening DW. Human Endometrial Extracellular Vesicles Functionally Prepare Human Trophectoderm Model for Implantation: Understanding Bidirectional Maternal-Embryo Communication. Proteomics 2019; 19:e1800423. [PMID: 31531940 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.201800423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2019] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Embryo implantation into maternal endometrium is critical for initiation and establishment of pregnancy, requiring developmental synchrony between endometrium and blastocyst. However, factors regulating human endometrial-embryo cross talk and facilitate implantation remain largely unknown. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are emerging as important mediators of this process. Here, a trophectoderm spheroid-based in vitro model mimicking the pre-implantation human embryo is used to recapitulate important functional aspects of blastocyst implantation. Functionally, human endometrial EVs, derived from hormonally treated cells synchronous with implantation, are readily internalized by trophectoderm cells, regulating adhesive and invasive capacity of human trophectoderm spheroids. To gain molecular insights into mechanisms underpinning endometrial EV-mediated enhancement of implantation, quantitative proteomics reveal critical alterations in trophectoderm cellular adhesion networks (cell adhesion molecule binding, cell-cell adhesion mediator activity, and cell adherens junctions) and metabolic and gene expression networks, and the soluble secretome from human trophectodermal spheroids. Importantly, transfer of endometrial EV cargo proteins to trophectoderm to mediate changes in trophectoderm function is demonstrated. This is highlighted by correlation among endometrial EVs, the trophectodermal proteome following EV uptake, and EV-mediated trophectodermal cellular proteome, important for implantation. This work provides an understanding into molecular mechanisms of endometrial EV-mediated regulation of human trophectoderm functions-fundamental in understanding human endometrium-embryo signaling during implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jemma Evans
- Endometrial Remodelling Laboratory, Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Alin Rai
- Molecular Proteomics, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Hong P T Nguyen
- Endometrial Remodelling Laboratory, Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Qi Hui Poh
- Molecular Proteomics, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - Kirstin Elglass
- Endometrial Remodelling Laboratory, Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Richard J Simpson
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia
| | - Lois A Salamonsen
- Endometrial Remodelling Laboratory, Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.,Departments of Physiology and Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - David W Greening
- Molecular Proteomics, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, 3086, Australia
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37
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van der Weijden VA, Bick JT, Bauersachs S, Arnold GJ, Fröhlich T, Drews B, Ulbrich SE. Uterine fluid proteome changes during diapause and resumption of embryo development in roe deer (Capreolus capreolus). Reproduction 2019; 158:13-24. [PMID: 30933930 PMCID: PMC6499939 DOI: 10.1530/rep-19-0022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The uterine microenvironment during pre-implantation presents a pro-survival milieu and is essential for embryo elongation in ruminants. The European roe deer (Careolus capreolus) pre-implantation embryo development is characterised by a 4-month period of reduced development, embryonic diapause, after which the embryo rapidly elongates and implants. We investigated the uterine fluid proteome by label-free liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry at four defined stages covering the phase of reduced developmental pace (early diapause, mid-diapause and late diapause) and embryo elongation. We hypothesised that embryo development during diapause is halted by the lack of signals that support progression past the blastocyst stage. Three clusters of differentially abundant proteins were identified by a self-organising tree algorithm: (1) gradual reduction over development; (2) stable abundance during diapause, followed by a sharp rise at elongation; and (3) gradual increase over development. Proteins in the different clusters were subjected to gene ontology analysis. 'Cellular detoxification' in cluster 1 was represented by alcohol dehydrogenase, glutathione S-transferase and peroxiredoxin-2. ATP-citrate synthase, nucleolin, lamin A/C, and purine phosphorylase as cell proliferation regulators were found in cluster 2 and 'cortical cytoskeleton', 'regulation of substrate adhesion-dependent cell spreading' and 'melanosome' were present in cluster 3. Cell cycle promoters were higher abundant at elongation than during diapause, and polyamines presence indicates their role in diapause regulation. This study provides a comprehensive overview of proteins in the roe deer uterine fluid during diapause and forms a basis for studies aiming at understanding the impact of the lack of cell cycle promoters during diapause.
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Affiliation(s)
- V A van der Weijden
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - J T Bick
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - S Bauersachs
- Genetics and Functional Genomics, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Department for Farm Animals, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - G J Arnold
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis LAFUGA, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - T Fröhlich
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis LAFUGA, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - B Drews
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - S E Ulbrich
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
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38
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Simintiras CA, Sánchez JM, McDonald M, Lonergan P. The influence of progesterone on bovine uterine fluid energy, nucleotide, vitamin, cofactor, peptide, and xenobiotic composition during the conceptus elongation-initiation window. Sci Rep 2019; 9:7716. [PMID: 31118434 PMCID: PMC6531537 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-44040-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Conceptus elongation coincides with one of the periods of greatest pregnancy loss in cattle and is characterized by rapid trophectoderm expansion, commencing ~ Day 13 of pregnancy, i.e. before maternal pregnancy recognition. The process has yet to be recapitulated in vitro and does not occur in the absence of uterine gland secretions in vivo. Moreover, conceptus elongation rates are positively correlated to systemic progesterone in maternal circulation. It is, therefore, a maternally-driven and progesterone-correlated developmental phenomenon. This study aimed to comprehensively characterize the biochemical composition of the uterine luminal fluid on Days 12-14 - the elongation-initiation window - in heifers with normal vs. high progesterone, to identify molecules potentially involved in conceptus elongation initiation. Specifically, nucleotide, vitamin, cofactor, xenobiotic, peptide, and energy metabolite profiles of uterine luminal fluid were examined. A total of 59 metabolites were identified, of which 6 and 3 displayed a respective progesterone and day effect, whereas 16 exhibited a day by progesterone interaction, of which 8 were nucleotide metabolites. Corresponding pathway enrichment analysis revealed that pyridoxal, ascorbate, tricarboxylic acid, purine, and pyrimidine metabolism are of likely importance to to conceptus elongation initiation. Moreover, progesterone reduced total metabolite abundance on Day 12 and may alter the uterine microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - José M Sánchez
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Michael McDonald
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Patrick Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
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39
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Proteomic profile of histotroph during early embryo development in mares. Theriogenology 2019; 125:224-235. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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40
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Melo TP, Fortes MRS, Bresolin T, Mota LFM, Albuquerque LG, Carvalheiro R. Multitrait meta-analysis identified genomic regions associated with sexual precocity in tropical beef cattle. J Anim Sci 2018; 96:4087-4099. [PMID: 30053002 DOI: 10.1093/jas/sky289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Multitrait meta-analyses are a strategy to produce more accurate genome-wide association studies, especially for complex phenotypes. We carried out a meta-analysis study for traits related to sexual precocity in tropical beef cattle (Nellore and Brahman) aiming to identify important genomic regions affecting these traits. The traits included in the analyses were age at first calving (AFC), early pregnancy (EP), age at first corpus luteum (AGECL), first postpartum anoestrus interval (PPAI), and scrotal circumference (SC). The traits AFC, EP, and SCN were measured in Nellore cattle, while AGECL, PPAI, and SCB were measured in Brahman cattle. Meta-analysis resulted in 108 significant single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), at an empirical threshold P-value of 1.39 × 10-5 (false discovery rate [FDR] < 0.05). Within 0.5 Mb of the significant SNP, candidate genes were annotated and analyzed for functional enrichment. Most of the closest genes to the SNP with higher significance in each chromosome have been associated with important roles in reproductive function. They are TSC22D2, KLF7, ARHGAP29, 7SK, MAP3K5, TLE3, WDR5, TAF3, TMEM68, PPP1R15B, NR2F2, GALR1, SUFU, and KCNU1. We did not observe any significant SNP in BTA5, BTA12, BTA17, BTA18, BTA19, BTA20, BTA22, BTA23, BTA25, and BTA28. Although the majority of significant SNPs are in BTA14, it was identified significant associations in multiple chromosomes (19 out of 29 autosomes), which is consistent with the postulation that reproductive traits are complex polygenic phenotypes. Five proposed association regions harbor the majority of the significant SNP (76%) and were distributed over four chromosomes (P < 1.39 × 10-5, FDR < 0.05): BTA2 (5.55%) from 95 to 96 Mb, BTA4 (5.55%) from 94.1 to 94.8 Mb, BTA14 (59.26%) from 24 to 25 Mb and 29 to 30 Mb, and BTA21 (5.55%) from 6.7 Mb to 11.4 Mb. These regions harbored key genes related to reproductive function. Moreover, these genes were enriched for functional groups associated with immune response, maternal-fetal tolerance, pregnancy maintenance, embryo development, fertility, and response to stress. Further studies including other breeds and precocity traits could confirm the importance of these regions and identify new candidate regions for sexual precocity in beef cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaise P Melo
- Department of Animal Science, School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, FCAV/ UNESP - Sao Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marina R S Fortes
- The University of Queensland, School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia.,The University of Queensland, Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Tiago Bresolin
- Department of Animal Science, School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, FCAV/ UNESP - Sao Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lucio F M Mota
- Department of Animal Science, School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, FCAV/ UNESP - Sao Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lucia G Albuquerque
- Department of Animal Science, School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, FCAV/ UNESP - Sao Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, Sao Paulo, Brazil.,National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq), Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Roberto Carvalheiro
- Department of Animal Science, School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, FCAV/ UNESP - Sao Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, Sao Paulo, Brazil.,National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq), Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
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41
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Maloney S, Khan FA, Chenier TS, Diel de Amorim M, Anthony Hayes M, Scholtz EL. A comparison of the uterine proteome of mares in oestrus and dioestrus. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 54:473-479. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.13375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shawn‐Elizabeth Maloney
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College University of Guelph Guelph Ontario Canada
| | - Firdous A. Khan
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College University of Guelph Guelph Ontario Canada
- Department of Large Animal Medicine and Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine St. George’s University True Blue Grenada
| | - Tracy S. Chenier
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College University of Guelph Guelph Ontario Canada
| | - Mariana Diel de Amorim
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College University of Guelph Guelph Ontario Canada
| | - Michael Anthony Hayes
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College University of Guelph Guelph Ontario Canada
| | - Elizabeth L. Scholtz
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College University of Guelph Guelph Ontario Canada
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