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Timme K, González-Alvarez ME, Keating AF. Pre-pubertal obesity compromises ovarian oxidative stress, DNA repair and chemical biotransformation. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2024; 489:116981. [PMID: 38838792 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2024.116981] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Obesity in adult females impairs fertility by altering oxidative stress, DNA repair and chemical biotransformation. Whether prepubertal obesity results in similar ovarian impacts is under-explored. The objective of this study was to induce obesity in prepubertal female mice and assess puberty onset, follicle number, and abundance of oxidative stress, DNA repair and chemical biotransformation proteins basally and in response to 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) exposure. DMBA is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon that has been shown to be ovotoxic. Lactating dams (C57BL6J) were fed either a normal rodent containing 3.5% kCal from fat (lean), or a high fat diet comprised of 60% kCal from fat, and 9% kCal from sucrose. The offspring were weaned onto the diet of their dam and exposed at postnatal day 35 to either corn oil or DMBA (1 mg/kg) for 7 d via intraperitoneal injection. Mice on the HFD had reduced (P < 0.05) age at puberty onset as measured by vaginal opening but DMBA did not impact puberty onset. Heart, spleen, kidney, uterus and ovary weight were increased (P < 0.05) by obesity and liver weight was increased (P < 0.05) by DMBA exposure in obese mice. Follicle number was largely unaffected by obesity or DMBA exposure, with the exception of primary follicle number, which were higher (P < 0.05) in lean DMBA exposed and obese control relative to lean control mice. There were also greater numbers (P < 0.05) of corpora lutea in obese relative to lean mice. In lean mice, DMBA exposure reduced (P < 0.05) the level of CYP2E1, EPHX1, GSTP1, BRCA1, and CAT but this DMBA-induced reduction was absent in obese mice. Basally, obesity reduced (P < 0.05) the abundance of CYP2E1, EPHX1, GSTP1, BRCA1, SOD1 and CAT. There was greater (P < 0.05) fibrotic staining in obese DMBA-exposed ovaries and PPP2CA was decreased (P < 0.05) in growing follicles by both obesity and DMBA exposure. Thus, prepubertal obesity alters the capacity of the ovary to respond to DNA damage, ovotoxicant exposure and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey Timme
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| | | | - Aileen F Keating
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA.
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2
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Six R, Benedetti C, Fan Y, Guan X, Gansemans Y, Hedia M, Bogado Pascottini O, Pavani KC, Van Nieuwerburgh F, Deforce D, Smits K, Van Soom A, Peelman L. Expression profile and gap-junctional transfer of microRNAs in the bovine cumulus-oocyte complex. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1404675. [PMID: 39055654 PMCID: PMC11269113 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1404675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNA) are important regulators of oocyte maturation, playing a key role in modulating gene expression both in a temporal- and spatial-specific manner. These small non-coding RNAs are involved in important processes during oocyte maturation, acting as messengers between the oocyte and its surrounding cumulus cells. Despite its significance, the bidirectional communication mechanism is still unknown. To test miRNA communication between oocyte and surrounding cumulus cells through the gap junctions the gap junctions were either blocked with carbenoxolone or not. MiRNA sequencing of oocytes at 1, 6, and 22 h of in vitro maturation was then performed. Among the differentially expressed miRNAs, bta-miR-21-5p, a regulator of cumulus cell viability and oocyte maturation, was the only previously known miRNA. Furthermore, by labeling a bta-miR-21-5p mimic with FAM, crossing of this miRNA through the gap junctions within the cumulus-oocyte complex could be visualized and internalization in the oocyte was confirmed by RT-qPCR. In conclusion, this study provides, for the first time, evidence that miRNA communication within the bovine cumulus-oocyte complex is enabled through the gap junctional network.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Six
- Department of Veterinary and Biosciences, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - C. Benedetti
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Y. Fan
- Department of Veterinary and Biosciences, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - X. Guan
- Department of Veterinary and Biosciences, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Y. Gansemans
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mohamed Hedia
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
- Theriogenology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - O. Bogado Pascottini
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - K. C. Pavani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - F. Van Nieuwerburgh
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - D. Deforce
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - K. Smits
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - A. Van Soom
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - L. Peelman
- Department of Veterinary and Biosciences, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
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3
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Xu R, Wen D, Yin L, Tang Y, Lu S, Gao Y, Pan MH, Han B, Ma B. Estrogen influences the transzonal projection assembly of cumulus-oocyte complexes through G protein-coupled estrogen receptor during goat follicle development. Mol Reprod Dev 2024; 91:e23763. [PMID: 38895803 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Estrogen is an important hormone that plays a role in regulating follicle development and oocyte maturation. Transzonal projections (TZPs) act as communication bridges between follicle somatic cells and oocytes, and their dynamic changes are critical for oocyte development and maturation. However, the roles and mechanisms of estrogen in regulating TZPs during follicular development are not yet understood. We found that the proportion of oocytes spontaneously resuming meiosis increases as the follicle grows, which is accompanied by rising estrogen levels in follicles and decreasing TZPs in cumulus-oocyte complex. To further explore the effect of elevated estrogen levels on TZP assembly, additional estrogen was added to the culture system. The increased estrogen level significantly decreased the mRNA and protein expression levels of TZP assembly-related genes. Subsequent research revealed that TZP regulation by estrogen was mediated by the membrane receptor GPER and downstream ERK1/2 signaling pathway. In summary, our study suggests that estrogen may regulate goat oocyte meiosis arrest by decreasing TZP numbers via estrogen-mediated GPER activation during follicle development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University/Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, China
| | - Dongxu Wen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University/Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, China
| | - Lu Yin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University/Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, China
| | - Yaju Tang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University/Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, China
| | - Sihai Lu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University/Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, China
| | - Yan Gao
- Yulin Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Service Center, Yulin, China
| | - Meng-Hao Pan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University/Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, China
| | - Bin Han
- Yulin Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Service Center, Yulin, China
| | - Baohua Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University/Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, China
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4
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Granados-Aparici S, Yang Q, Clarke HJ. SMAD4 promotes somatic-germline contact during murine oocyte growth. eLife 2024; 13:RP91798. [PMID: 38819913 PMCID: PMC11142639 DOI: 10.7554/elife.91798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Development of the mammalian oocyte requires physical contact with the surrounding granulosa cells of the follicle, which provide it with essential nutrients and regulatory signals. This contact is achieved through specialized filopodia, termed transzonal projections (TZPs), that extend from the granulosa cells to the oocyte surface. Transforming growth factor (TGFβ) family ligands produced by the oocyte increase the number of TZPs, but how they do so is unknown. Using an inducible Cre recombinase strategy together with expression of green fluorescent protein to verify Cre activity in individual cells, we examined the effect of depleting the canonical TGFβ mediator, SMAD4, in mouse granulosa cells. We observed a 20-50% decrease in the total number of TZPs in SMAD4-depleted granulosa cell-oocyte complexes, and a 50% decrease in the number of newly generated TZPs when the granulosa cells were reaggregated with wild-type oocytes. Three-dimensional image analysis revealed that TZPs of SMAD4-depleted cells were longer than controls and more frequently oriented towards the oocyte. Strikingly, the transmembrane proteins, N-cadherin and Notch2, were reduced by 50% in SMAD4-depleted cells. SMAD4 may thus modulate a network of cell adhesion proteins that stabilize the attachment of TZPs to the oocyte, thereby amplifying signalling between the two cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Granados-Aparici
- Research Institute, McGill University Health CentreMontrealCanada
- Present address: Cancer CIBER (CIBERONC)MadridSpain
- Present address: Pathology Department, Medical School, University of Valencia-INCLIVAValenciaSpain
| | - Qin Yang
- Research Institute, McGill University Health CentreMontrealCanada
| | - Hugh J Clarke
- Research Institute, McGill University Health CentreMontrealCanada
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Biology, Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill UniversityMontréalCanada
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5
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Fiorentino G, Merico V, Zanoni M, Comincini S, Sproviero D, Garofalo M, Gagliardi S, Cereda C, Lin CJ, Innocenti F, Taggi M, Vaiarelli A, Ubaldi FM, Rienzi L, Cimadomo D, Garagna S, Zuccotti M. Extracellular vesicles secreted by cumulus cells contain microRNAs that are potential regulatory factors of mouse oocyte developmental competence. Mol Hum Reprod 2024; 30:gaae019. [PMID: 38745364 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaae019] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The role of cumulus cells (CCs) in the acquisition of oocyte developmental competence is not yet fully understood. In a previous study, we matured cumulus-denuded fully-grown mouse oocytes to metaphase II (MII) on a feeder layer of CCs (FL-CCs) isolated from developmentally competent (FL-SN-CCs) or incompetent (FL-NSN-CCs) SN (surrounded nucleolus) or NSN (not surrounding nucleolus) oocytes, respectively. We observed that oocytes cultured on the former could develop into blastocysts, while those matured on the latter arrested at the 2-cell stage. To investigate the CC factors contributing to oocyte developmental competence, here we focused on the CCs' release into the medium of extracellular vesicles (EVs) and on their miRNA content. We found that, during the 15-h transition to MII, both FL-SN-CCs and FL-NSN-CCs release EVs that can be detected, by confocal microscopy, inside the zona pellucida (ZP) or the ooplasm. The majority of EVs are <200 nm in size, which is compatible with their ability to cross the ZP. Next-generation sequencing of the miRNome of FL-SN-CC versus FL-NSN-CC EVs highlighted 74 differentially expressed miRNAs, with 43 up- and 31 down-regulated. Although most of these miRNAs do not have known roles in the ovary, in silico functional analysis showed that seven of these miRNAs regulate 71 target genes with specific roles in meiosis resumption (N = 24), follicle growth (N = 23), fertilization (N = 1), and the acquisition of oocyte developmental competence (N = 23). Overall, our results indicate CC EVs as emerging candidates of the CC-to-oocyte communication axis and uncover a group of miRNAs as potential regulatory factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Fiorentino
- Laboratory of Biology and Biotechnology of Reproduction, Department of Biology and Biotechnology 'Lazzaro Spallanzani', University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Valeria Merico
- Laboratory of Biology and Biotechnology of Reproduction, Department of Biology and Biotechnology 'Lazzaro Spallanzani', University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Mario Zanoni
- Laboratory of Biology and Biotechnology of Reproduction, Department of Biology and Biotechnology 'Lazzaro Spallanzani', University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Sergio Comincini
- Functional Genomics Laboratory, Department of Biology and Biotechnology 'Lazzaro Spallanzani', University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Daisy Sproviero
- IFOM, IFOM-The FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Garofalo
- Molecular Biology and Transcriptomics Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Stella Gagliardi
- Molecular Biology and Transcriptomics Unit, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cristina Cereda
- Department of Pediatrics, Center of Functional Genomics and Rare Diseases, Buzzi Children's Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Chih-Jen Lin
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Institute for Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Federica Innocenti
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - Marilena Taggi
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Vaiarelli
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Laura Rienzi
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino, Italy
| | - Danilo Cimadomo
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Garagna
- Laboratory of Biology and Biotechnology of Reproduction, Department of Biology and Biotechnology 'Lazzaro Spallanzani', University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Maurizio Zuccotti
- Laboratory of Biology and Biotechnology of Reproduction, Department of Biology and Biotechnology 'Lazzaro Spallanzani', University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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6
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Feng X, Li C, Zhang H, Zhang P, Shahzad M, Du W, Zhao X. Heat-Stress Impacts on Developing Bovine Oocytes: Unraveling Epigenetic Changes, Oxidative Stress, and Developmental Resilience. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4808. [PMID: 38732033 PMCID: PMC11084174 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094808] [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: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Extreme temperature during summer may lead to heat stress in cattle and compromise their productivity. It also poses detrimental impacts on the developmental capacity of bovine budding oocytes, which halt their fertility. To mitigate the adverse effects of heat stress, it is necessary to investigate the mechanisms through which it affects the developmental capacity of oocytes. The primary goal of this study was to investigate the impact of heat stress on the epigenetic modifications in bovine oocytes and embryos, as well as on oocyte developmental capacity, reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial membrane potential, apoptosis, transzonal projections, and gene expression levels. Our results showed that heat stress significantly reduced the expression levels of the epigenetic modifications from histone H1, histone H2A, histone H2B, histone H4, DNA methylation, and DNA hydroxymethylation at all stages of the oocyte and embryo. Similarly, heat stress significantly reduced cleavage rate, blastocyst rate, oocyte mitochondrial-membrane potential level, adenosine-triphosphate (ATP) level, mitochondrial DNA copy number, and transzonal projection level. It was also found that heat stress affected mitochondrial distribution in oocytes and significantly increased reactive oxygen species, apoptosis levels and mitochondrial autophagy levels. Our findings suggest that heat stress significantly impacts the expression levels of genes related to oocyte developmental ability, the cytoskeleton, mitochondrial function, and epigenetic modification, lowering their competence during the summer season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyi Feng
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing 100193, China; (X.F.); (C.L.); (H.Z.); (P.Z.); (M.S.); (W.D.)
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University (QAU), Qingdao 266000, China
| | - Chongyang Li
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing 100193, China; (X.F.); (C.L.); (H.Z.); (P.Z.); (M.S.); (W.D.)
| | - Hang Zhang
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing 100193, China; (X.F.); (C.L.); (H.Z.); (P.Z.); (M.S.); (W.D.)
| | - Peipei Zhang
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing 100193, China; (X.F.); (C.L.); (H.Z.); (P.Z.); (M.S.); (W.D.)
| | - Muhammad Shahzad
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing 100193, China; (X.F.); (C.L.); (H.Z.); (P.Z.); (M.S.); (W.D.)
| | - Weihua Du
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing 100193, China; (X.F.); (C.L.); (H.Z.); (P.Z.); (M.S.); (W.D.)
| | - Xueming Zhao
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing 100193, China; (X.F.); (C.L.); (H.Z.); (P.Z.); (M.S.); (W.D.)
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7
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Micheva KD, Burden JJ, Schifferer M. Array tomography: trails to discovery. METHODS IN MICROSCOPY 2024; 1:9-17. [PMID: 39119254 PMCID: PMC11308915 DOI: 10.1515/mim-2024-0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Tissue slicing is at the core of many approaches to studying biological structures. Among the modern volume electron microscopy (vEM) methods, array tomography (AT) is based on serial ultramicrotomy, section collection onto solid support, imaging via light and/or scanning electron microscopy, and re-assembly of the serial images into a volume for analysis. While AT largely uses standard EM equipment, it provides several advantages, including long-term preservation of the sample and compatibility with multi-scale and multi-modal imaging. Furthermore, the collection of serial ultrathin sections improves axial resolution and provides access for molecular labeling, which is beneficial for light microscopy and immunolabeling, and facilitates correlation with EM. Despite these benefits, AT techniques are underrepresented in imaging facilities and labs, due to their perceived difficulty and lack of training opportunities. Here we point towards novel developments in serial sectioning and image analysis that facilitate the AT pipeline, and solutions to overcome constraints. Because no single vEM technique can serve all needs regarding field of view and resolution, we sketch a decision tree to aid researchers in navigating the plethora of options available. Lastly, we elaborate on the unexplored potential of AT approaches to add valuable insight in diverse biological fields.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Martina Schifferer
- Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany
- Munich Cluster of Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
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8
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Owen CM, Jaffe LA. Luteinizing hormone stimulates ingression of mural granulosa cells within the mouse preovulatory follicle†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:288-299. [PMID: 37847612 PMCID: PMC10873281 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Luteinizing hormone (LH) induces ovulation by acting on its receptors in the mural granulosa cells that surround a mammalian oocyte in an ovarian follicle. However, much remains unknown about how activation of the LH receptor modifies the structure of the follicle such that the oocyte is released and the follicle remnants are transformed into the corpus luteum. The present study shows that the preovulatory surge of LH stimulates LH receptor-expressing granulosa cells, initially located almost entirely in the outer layers of the mural granulosa, to rapidly extend inwards, intercalating between other cells. The cellular ingression begins within 30 min of the peak of the LH surge, and the proportion of LH receptor-expressing cell bodies in the inner half of the mural granulosa layer increases until the time of ovulation, which occurs at about 10 h after the LH peak. During this time, many of the initially flask-shaped cells appear to detach from the basal lamina, acquiring a rounder shape with multiple filipodia. Starting at about 4 h after the LH peak, the mural granulosa layer at the apical surface of the follicle where ovulation will occur begins to thin, and the basolateral surface develops invaginations and constrictions. Our findings raise the question of whether LH stimulation of granulosa cell ingression may contribute to these changes in the follicular structure that enable ovulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corie M Owen
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Laurinda A Jaffe
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA
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9
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Chen Z, Liu X, Kawakami M, Liu X, Baker A, Bhatawadekar A, Tyutyunyk-Massey L, Narayan K, Dmitrovsky E. CDK2 inhibition disorders centrosome stoichiometry and alters cellular outcomes in aneuploid cancer cells. Cancer Biol Ther 2023; 24:2279241. [PMID: 38031910 PMCID: PMC10766391 DOI: 10.1080/15384047.2023.2279241] [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: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent Kinase 2 (CDK2) inhibition prevents supernumerary centrosome clustering. This causes multipolarity, anaphase catastrophe and apoptotic death of aneuploid cancers. This study elucidated how CDK2 antagonism affected centrosome stoichiometry. Focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM) and immunofluorescent imaging were used. Studies interrogated multipolar mitosis after pharmacologic or genetic repression of CDK2. CDK2/9 antagonism with CYC065 (Fadraciclib)-treatment disordered centrosome stoichiometry in aneuploid cancer cells, preventing centrosome clustering. This caused ring-like chromosomes or multipolar cancer cells to form before onset of cell death. Intriguingly, CDK2 inhibition caused a statistically significant increase in single centrioles rather than intact centrosomes with two centrioles in cancer cells having chromosome rings or multipolarity. Statistically significant alterations in centrosome stoichiometry were undetected in other mitotic cancer cells. To confirm this pharmacodynamic effect, CDK2 but not CDK9 siRNA-mediated knockdown augmented cancer cells with chromosome ring or multipolarity formation. Notably, engineered gain of CDK2, but not CDK9 expression, reversed emergence of cancer cells with chromosome rings or multipolarity, despite CYC065-treatment. In marked contrast, CDK2 inhibition of primary human alveolar epithelial cells did not confer statistically significant increases of cells with ring-like chromosomes or multipolarity. Hence, CDK2 antagonism caused differential effects in malignant versus normal alveolar epithelial cells. Translational relevance was confirmed by CYC065-treatment of syngeneic lung cancers in mice. Mitotic figures in tumors exhibited chromosome rings or multipolarity. Thus, CDK2 inhibition preferentially disorders centrosome stoichiometry in cancer cells. Engaging this disruption is a strategy to explore against aneuploid cancers in future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zibo Chen
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Xi Liu
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Masanori Kawakami
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Xiuxia Liu
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Allison Baker
- Center for Molecular Microscopy, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda and Cancer Research Technology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Aayush Bhatawadekar
- Center for Molecular Microscopy, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda and Cancer Research Technology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Liliya Tyutyunyk-Massey
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Kedar Narayan
- Center for Molecular Microscopy, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda and Cancer Research Technology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Ethan Dmitrovsky
- Molecular Pharmacology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
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10
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Xu R, Pan M, Yin L, Zhang Y, Tang Y, Lu S, Gao Y, Wei Q, Han B, Ma B. C-Type Natriuretic Peptide Pre-Treatment Improves Maturation Rate of Goat Oocytes by Maintaining Transzonal Projections, Spindle Morphology, and Mitochondrial Function. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3880. [PMID: 38136917 PMCID: PMC10740921 DOI: 10.3390/ani13243880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) is a peptide molecule naturally found in follicles and can be used to extend meiotic resumption and enhance the potential for oocytes to develop. However, the mechanism by which CNP improves goat oocyte quality remains unclear. In this study, cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) from goats were pre-treated with CNP prior to IVM, and the results showed that pre-treatment with CNP enhanced goat oocyte maturation. First, we discovered that CNP maintained communication between cumulus cells and oocytes by regulating the transzonal projections (TZPs). We then found that CNP treatment reduced abnormal spindle formation and increased the expression of genes associated with spindle assembly and the spindle assembly checkpoint. Moreover, further analysis showed that oocytes exhibited better antioxidant ability in the CNP treatment group, which mainly manifested in higher glutathione (GSH) and lower reactive oxygen species (ROS) concentrations. Enhanced mitochondrial activity was signified via the augmented expression of mitochondrial oxidative metabolism and fusion and fission-related genes, thus diminishing the apoptosis of the oocytes. Overall, these results provide novel insights into the potential mechanism by which CNP treatment before IVM can improve oocyte quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Xu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China; (R.X.); (M.P.); (L.Y.); (Y.Z.); (Q.W.)
| | - Menghao Pan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China; (R.X.); (M.P.); (L.Y.); (Y.Z.); (Q.W.)
| | - Lu Yin
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China; (R.X.); (M.P.); (L.Y.); (Y.Z.); (Q.W.)
| | - Yiqian Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China; (R.X.); (M.P.); (L.Y.); (Y.Z.); (Q.W.)
| | - Yaju Tang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China; (R.X.); (M.P.); (L.Y.); (Y.Z.); (Q.W.)
| | - Sihai Lu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China; (R.X.); (M.P.); (L.Y.); (Y.Z.); (Q.W.)
| | - Yan Gao
- Yulin Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Service Center, Yulin 719000, China
| | - Qiang Wei
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China; (R.X.); (M.P.); (L.Y.); (Y.Z.); (Q.W.)
| | - Bin Han
- Yulin Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Service Center, Yulin 719000, China
| | - Baohua Ma
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China; (R.X.); (M.P.); (L.Y.); (Y.Z.); (Q.W.)
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11
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Matassa R, Gatti M, Crociati M, Brunelli R, Battaglione E, Papi M, De Spirito M, Nottola SA, Familiari G. Self-assembly of glycoprotein nanostructured filaments for modulating extracellular networks at long range. NANOSCALE 2023; 15:17972-17986. [PMID: 37905731 DOI: 10.1039/d3nr02644b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
The intriguing capability of branched glycoprotein filaments to change their hierarchical organization, mediated by external biophysical stimuli, continues to expand understanding of self-assembling strategies that can dynamically rearrange networks at long range. Previous research has explored the corresponding biological, physiological and genetic mechanisms, focusing on protein assemblies within a limited range of nanometric units. Using direct microscopy bio-imaging, we have determined the morpho-structural changes of self-assembled filament networks of the zona pellucida, revealing controlled levels of structured organizations to join distinct evolved stages of the oocyte (Immature, Mature, and Fertilized). This natural soft network reorganizes its corresponding hierarchical network to generate symmetric, asymmetric, and ultimately a state with the lowest asymmetry of the outer surface roughness, and internal pores reversibly changed from elliptical to circular configurations at the corresponding stages. These elusive morpho-structural changes are regulated by the nanostructured polymorphisms of the branched filaments by self-extension/-contraction/-bending processes, modulated by determinate theoretical angles among repetitive filament units. Controlling the nanoscale self-assembling properties by delivering a minimum number of activation bio-signals may be triggered by these specific nanostructured polymorphic organizations. Finally, this research aims to guide this soft biomaterial into a desired state to protect oocytes, eggs, and embryos during development, to favour/prevent the fertilization/polyspermy processes and eventually to impact interactions with bacteria/virus at multiscale levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Matassa
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Borelli 50, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Marta Gatti
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Borelli 50, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Martina Crociati
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via San Costanzo, 4, Perugia, 06126, Italy
- Centre for Perinatal and Reproductive Medicine, University of Perugia, 06129 Perugia, Italy
| | - Roberto Brunelli
- Department of Gynecological-Obstetric and Urologic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Ezio Battaglione
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Borelli 50, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Massimiliano Papi
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCSS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco De Spirito
- Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCSS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Annarita Nottola
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Borelli 50, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Familiari
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Section of Human Anatomy, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Borelli 50, 00161, Rome, Italy.
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12
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Zhang CH, Liu XY, Wang J. Essential Role of Granulosa Cell Glucose and Lipid Metabolism on Oocytes and the Potential Metabolic Imbalance in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16247. [PMID: 38003436 PMCID: PMC10671516 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216247] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Granulosa cells are crucial for the establishment and maintenance of bidirectional communication among oocytes. Various intercellular material exchange modes, including paracrine and gap junction, are used between them to achieve the efficient delivery of granulosa cell structural components, energy substrates, and signaling molecules to oocytes. Glucose metabolism and lipid metabolism are two basic energy metabolism pathways in granulosa cells; these are involved in the normal development of oocytes. Pyruvate, produced by granulosa cell glycolysis, is an important energy substrate for oocyte development. Granulosa cells regulate changes in intrafollicular hormone levels through the processing of steroid hormones to control the development process of oocytes. This article reviews the material exchange between oocytes and granulosa cells and expounds the significance of granulosa cells in the development of oocytes through both glucose metabolism and lipid metabolism. In addition, we discuss the effects of glucose and lipid metabolism on oocytes under pathological conditions and explore its relationship to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). A series of changes were found in the endogenous molecules and ncRNAs that are related to glucose and lipid metabolism in granulosa cells under PCOS conditions. These findings provide a new therapeutic target for patients with PCOS; additionally, there is potential for improving the fertility of patients with PCOS and the clinical outcomes of assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Hua Zhang
- Queen Mary School, Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China; (C.-H.Z.); (X.-Y.L.)
| | - Xiang-Yi Liu
- Queen Mary School, Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China; (C.-H.Z.); (X.-Y.L.)
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
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13
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Telfer EE, Grosbois J, Odey YL, Rosario R, Anderson RA. Making a good egg: human oocyte health, aging, and in vitro development. Physiol Rev 2023; 103:2623-2677. [PMID: 37171807 PMCID: PMC10625843 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00032.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian eggs (oocytes) are formed during fetal life and establish associations with somatic cells to form primordial follicles that create a store of germ cells (the primordial pool). The size of this pool is influenced by key events during the formation of germ cells and by factors that influence the subsequent activation of follicle growth. These regulatory pathways must ensure that the reserve of oocytes within primordial follicles in humans lasts for up to 50 years, yet only approximately 0.1% will ever be ovulated with the rest undergoing degeneration. This review outlines the mechanisms and regulatory pathways that govern the processes of oocyte and follicle formation and later growth, within the ovarian stroma, through to ovulation with particular reference to human oocytes/follicles. In addition, the effects of aging on female reproductive capacity through changes in oocyte number and quality are emphasized, with both the cellular mechanisms and clinical implications discussed. Finally, the details of current developments in culture systems that support all stages of follicle growth to generate mature oocytes in vitro and emerging prospects for making new oocytes from stem cells are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn E Telfer
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Johanne Grosbois
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Yvonne L Odey
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Roseanne Rosario
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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14
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Yang X, Ma J, Mo L, Xiong Y, Xiong X, Lan D, Fu W, Yin S. Molecular cloning and characterization of STC1 gene and its functional analyses in yak (Bos grunniens) cumulus granulosa cells. Theriogenology 2023; 208:185-193. [PMID: 37354862 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.06.023] [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: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Cumulus granulosa cells (CGCs), an important type of ovarian somatic cells, carries out various functions related to oogenesis, follicular development, and steroidogenesis. Studying the biological mechanisms involved in the development and function of CGCs makes a great contribution to understanding the reproductive regulation in female animals. Stanniocalcin-1 (STC1) is an important Ca2+-regulated glycoprotein hormone that exhibits high expression levels in ovaries. In this study, we cloned the coding sequence of the yak STC1, predicted the structure of STC1 protein, detected the expression and localization of STC1 in yak ovaries, and analyzed the functions of STC1 in yak CGCs. The CDS (coding sequence) region of yak STC1 gene was found to be 744 bp and encoded 247 amino acids. Homology comparison revealed that STC1 protein was highly conserved among mammals. The STC1 mRNA displayed dynamic expression profiles in different stages of yak ovaries, and the highest expression was found in the follicular phase. Regarding localization, STC1 protein was widely distributed in various kinds of yak ovarian cells, including oocytes, mural granulosa cells, CGCs, and thecal cells. Repressing the expression of STC1 resulted in defective proliferation and survival of yak CGCs. In addition, knockdown the expression of STC1 repressed the secretion of progesterone and promoted the secretion of estrogen. Overexpression of STC1 partially rescued the proliferation of CGCs and resulted in opposite effects on the secretion of progesterone and estrogen. Several apoptosis and steroidogenesis-related genes, including BAX, BCL2, HSD3B1, HSD17B1, CYP11A1 and CYP17A1 showed altered expressions after repressing or increasing the expression of STC1 in yak CGCs. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to focus on the role of STC1 in yak CGCs, and the outcomes offer fresh insights into the mechanism governing yak reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Yang
- College of Animal & Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Jun Ma
- College of Animal & Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Luoyu Mo
- College of Animal & Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Yan Xiong
- College of Animal & Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China; Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization, Sichuan Province, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Xianrong Xiong
- College of Animal & Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China; Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization, Sichuan Province, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Daoliang Lan
- College of Animal & Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China; Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization, Sichuan Province, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Wei Fu
- College of Animal & Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China; Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization, Sichuan Province, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China
| | - Shi Yin
- College of Animal & Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China; Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Utilization, Sichuan Province, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China; Key Laboratory of Modem Technology (Southwest Minzu University), State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, China.
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15
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Kalous J, Aleshkina D, Anger M. A Role of PI3K/Akt Signaling in Oocyte Maturation and Early Embryo Development. Cells 2023; 12:1830. [PMID: 37508495 PMCID: PMC10378481 DOI: 10.3390/cells12141830] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
A serine/threonine-specific protein kinase B (PKB), also known as Akt, is a key factor in the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway that regulates cell survival, metabolism and proliferation. Akt phosphorylates many downstream specific substrates, which subsequently control the nuclear envelope breakdown (NEBD), centrosome maturation, spindle assembly, chromosome segregation, and cytokinesis. In vertebrates, Akt is also an important player during oogenesis and preimplantation development. In the signaling pathways regulating mRNA translation, Akt is involved in the control of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) and thereby regulates the activity of a translational repressor, the eukaryotic initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) binding protein 1 (4E-BP1). In this review, we summarize the functions of Akt in mitosis, meiosis and early embryonic development. Additionally, the role of Akt in the regulation of mRNA translation is addressed with respect to the significance of this process during early development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaroslav Kalous
- Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Daria Aleshkina
- Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Albertov 6, 128 00 Praha, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Anger
- Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, 277 21 Libechov, Czech Republic
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16
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Crozet F, Letort G, Bulteau R, Da Silva C, Eichmuller A, Tortorelli AF, Blévinal J, Belle M, Dumont J, Piolot T, Dauphin A, Coulpier F, Chédotal A, Maître JL, Verlhac MH, Clarke HJ, Terret ME. Filopodia-like protrusions of adjacent somatic cells shape the developmental potential of oocytes. Life Sci Alliance 2023; 6:e202301963. [PMID: 36944420 PMCID: PMC10029974 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202301963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The oocyte must grow and mature before fertilization, thanks to a close dialogue with the somatic cells that surround it. Part of this communication is through filopodia-like protrusions, called transzonal projections (TZPs), sent by the somatic cells to the oocyte membrane. To investigate the contribution of TZPs to oocyte quality, we impaired their structure by generating a full knockout mouse of the TZP structural component myosin-X (MYO10). Using spinning disk and super-resolution microscopy combined with a machine-learning approach to phenotype oocyte morphology, we show that the lack of Myo10 decreases TZP density during oocyte growth. Reduction in TZPs does not prevent oocyte growth but impairs oocyte-matrix integrity. Importantly, we reveal by transcriptomic analysis that gene expression is altered in TZP-deprived oocytes and that oocyte maturation and subsequent early embryonic development are partially affected, effectively reducing mouse fertility. We propose that TZPs play a role in the structural integrity of the germline-somatic complex, which is essential for regulating gene expression in the oocyte and thus its developmental potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flora Crozet
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Université PSL, Paris, France
- Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR 3738, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Gaëlle Letort
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Université PSL, Paris, France
- Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR 3738, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Rose Bulteau
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Université PSL, Paris, France
| | - Christelle Da Silva
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Université PSL, Paris, France
| | - Adrien Eichmuller
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Université PSL, Paris, France
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR 3215, INSERM U934, Paris, France
| | - Anna Francesca Tortorelli
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR 3215, INSERM U934, Paris, France
| | | | - Morgane Belle
- Institut de la Vision, UMRS968/UMR7210/UM80, Paris, France
| | - Julien Dumont
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Université PSL, Paris, France
| | - Tristan Piolot
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Université PSL, Paris, France
| | - Aurélien Dauphin
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR 3215, INSERM U934, Paris, France
| | - Fanny Coulpier
- Genomics Core Facility, Institut de Biologie de l'ENS, Département de biologie, Ecole normale supérieure, CNRS, INSERM, Université PSL, Paris, France
| | - Alain Chédotal
- Institut de la Vision, UMRS968/UMR7210/UM80, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Léon Maître
- Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR 3215, INSERM U934, Paris, France
| | - Marie-Hélène Verlhac
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Université PSL, Paris, France
| | - Hugh J Clarke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Marie-Emilie Terret
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology, Collège de France, CNRS, INSERM, Université PSL, Paris, France
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17
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Coxir SA, Costa GMJ, Santos CFD, Alvarenga RDLLS, Lacerda SMDSN. From in vivo to in vitro: exploring the key molecular and cellular aspects of human female gametogenesis. Hum Cell 2023:10.1007/s13577-023-00921-7. [PMID: 37237248 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-023-00921-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Human oogenesis is a highly complex and not yet fully understood process due to ethical and technological barriers that limit studies in the field. In this context, replicating female gametogenesis in vitro would not only provide a solution for some infertility problems, but also be an excellent study model to better understand the biological mechanisms that determine the formation of the female germline. In this review, we explore the main cellular and molecular aspects involved in human oogenesis and folliculogenesis in vivo, from the specification of primordial germ cells (PGCs) to the formation of the mature oocyte. We also sought to describe the important bidirectional relationship between the germ cell and the follicular somatic cells. Finally, we address the main advances and different methodologies used in the search for obtaining cells of the female germline in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Abreu Coxir
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Mattos Jardim Costa
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Camilla Fernandes Dos Santos
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil
| | | | - Samyra Maria Dos Santos Nassif Lacerda
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, 31270-901, Brazil.
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18
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Makhijani RB, Bartolucci AF, Pru CA, Pru JK, Peluso JJ. Nonerythroid hemoglobin promotes human cumulus cell viability and the developmental capacity of the human oocyte. F&S SCIENCE 2023; 4:121-132. [PMID: 36933864 PMCID: PMC11003276 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2023.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the relationship between the levels of cumulus cell (CC) hemoglobin messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) and the developmental potential of the associated oocyte and whether hemoglobin protects the CCs from oxidative stress-induced apoptosis. DESIGN Laboratory-based study. SETTING University laboratory and university-affiliated in vitro fertilization center. PATIENT(S) Cumulus cells from the oocytes of patients who underwent in vitro fertilization with intracytoplasmic sperm injection with and without preimplantation genetic testing between 2018 and 2020. INTERVENTION(S) Studies on individual and pooled CCs collected at the time of oocyte retrieval or cultured under 20% or 5% O2. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis of individual and pooled patient CC samples were used to monitor the hemoglobin mRNA levels. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction arrays were used to assess genes that regulate oxidative stress in CCs associated with aneuploid and euploid blastocysts. Studies were conducted to assess the effect of oxidative stress on the rate of apoptosis, level of reactive oxygen species, and gene expression in CCs in vitro. RESULT(S) Compared with CCs associated with arrested and aneuploid blastocysts, the mRNA levels encoding the alpha and beta chains of hemoglobin increased by 2.9- and 2.3-fold in CCs associated with euploid blastocysts, respectively. The mRNA levels encoding the alpha and beta chains of hemoglobin also increased by 3.8- and 4.5-fold in CCs cultured under 5% O2 vs. 20% O2, respectively, and multiple regulators of oxidative stress were overexpressed in cells cultured under 20% O2 compared with those under 5% O2. However, the rate of apoptosis and amount of mitochondrial reactive oxidative species increased by 1.25-fold in CCs cultured under 20% O2 compared with those under 5% O2. Variable amounts of the alpha and beta chains of hemoglobin were also detected within the zona pellucida and oocytes. CONCLUSION(S) Higher levels of nonerythroid hemoglobin in CCs are associated with oocytes that result in euploid blastocysts. Hemoglobin may protect CCs from oxidative stress-induced apoptosis, which may enhance cumulus-oocyte interactions. Moreover, CC-derived hemoglobin may be transferred to the oocytes and protect it from the adverse effects of oxidative stress that occurs in vivo and in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alison F Bartolucci
- Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, Farmington, Connecticut; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut
| | - Cindy A Pru
- Department of Animal Science, Program in Reproductive Biology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming
| | - James K Pru
- Department of Animal Science, Program in Reproductive Biology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming
| | - John J Peluso
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut; Department of Cell Biology, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut.
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19
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Zhang P, Yang B, Xu X, Zhang H, Feng X, Hao H, Du W, Zhu H, Li S, Yu W, Khan A, Umer S, Zhao X. Combination of CNP, MT and FLI during IVM Significantly Improved the Quality and Development Abilities of Bovine Oocytes and IVF-Derived Embryos. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12040897. [PMID: 37107273 PMCID: PMC10135536 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12040897] [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: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Oocyte maturation is a critical step in the completion of female gametogenesis in the ovary; thus, for subsequent fertilization and embryogenesis. Vitrification of embryo also has been shown to be closely associated with oocyte maturation. To improve the quality and developmental potential of bovine oocytes derived from in vitro maturation (IVM), Pre-IVM with C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP), melatonin (MT) and in combination, IGF1, FGF2, LIF (FLI) were supplemented in the IVM medium. In this current study, we cultured bovine oocytes in Pre-IVM with CNP for 6 h before transferring them to the IVM medium supplemented with MT and FLI. The developmental potential of bovine oocytes was then investigated by measuring the reactive oxygen species (ROS), the intracellular glutathione (GSH) and ATP levels, the transzonal projections (TZP), the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), cacline-AM, and the expression of related genes (cumulus cells (CCs), oocytes, blastocysts). The results revealed that oocytes treated with a combination of CNP, MT, and FLI had dramatically improved the percentage of oocytes developed to blastocyst, ATP content, GSH levels, TZP intensity, the ΔΨm, cacline-AM fluorescence intensity, and considerably reduced ROS levels of oocytes. Furthermore, the survival rate and the hatched rate after vitrification of the CNP+MT+FLI group were significantly higher than those other groups. Thus, we speculated that CNP+MT+FLI increases the IVM of bovine oocytes. In conclusion, our findings deepen our understanding and provide new perspectives on targeting the combination of CNP, MT and FLI to enhance the quality and developmental potential of bovine oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peipei Zhang
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Baigao Yang
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xi Xu
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Hang Zhang
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xiaoyi Feng
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Haisheng Hao
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Weihua Du
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Huabin Zhu
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Shujing Li
- Shijiazhuang Tianquan Elite Dairy Ltd., Shijiazhuang 050200, China
| | - Wenli Yu
- Shijiazhuang Tianquan Elite Dairy Ltd., Shijiazhuang 050200, China
| | - Adnan Khan
- Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518120, China
| | - Saqib Umer
- Department of Theriogenology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38000, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Xueming Zhao
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
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20
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Kislinger G, Niemann C, Rodriguez L, Jiang H, Fard MK, Snaidero N, Schumacher AM, Kerschensteiner M, Misgeld T, Schifferer M. Neurons on tape: Automated Tape Collecting Ultramicrotomy-mediated volume EM for targeting neuropathology. Methods Cell Biol 2023; 177:125-170. [PMID: 37451765 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mcb.2023.01.012] [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] [Indexed: 03/19/2023]
Abstract
In this chapter, we review Automated Tape Collecting Ultramicrotomy (ATUM), which, among other array tomography methods, substantially simplified large-scale volume electron microscopy (vEM) projects. vEM reveals biological structures at nanometer resolution in three dimensions and resolves ambiguities of two-dimensional representations. However, as the structures of interest-like disease hallmarks emerging from neuropathology-are often rare but the field of view is small, this can easily turn a vEM project into a needle in a haystack problem. One solution for this is correlated light and electron microscopy (CLEM), providing tissue context, dynamic and molecular features before switching to targeted vEM to hone in on the object's ultrastructure. This requires precise coordinate transfer between the two imaging modalities (e.g., by micro computed tomography), especially for block face vEM which relies on physical destruction of sections. With array tomography methods, serial ultrathin sections are collected into a tissue library, thus allowing storage of precious samples like human biopsies and enabling repetitive imaging at different resolution levels for an SEM-based search strategy. For this, ATUM has been developed to reliably collect serial ultrathin sections via a conveyor belt onto a plastic tape that is later mounted onto silicon wafers for serial scanning EM (SEM). The ATUM-SEM procedure is highly modular and can be divided into sample preparation, serial ultramicrotomy onto tape, mounting, serial image acquisition-after which the acquired image stacks can be used for analysis. Here, we describe the steps of this workflow and how ATUM-SEM enables targeting and high resolution imaging of specific structures. ATUM-SEM is widely applicable. To illustrate this, we exemplify the approach by reconstructions of focal pathology in an Alzheimer mouse model and CLEM of a specific cortical synapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georg Kislinger
- Institute of Neuronal Cell Biology, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany
| | - Cornelia Niemann
- Institute of Neuronal Cell Biology, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany
| | - Lucia Rodriguez
- Institute of Neuronal Cell Biology, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany
| | - Hanyi Jiang
- Institute of Neuronal Cell Biology, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany
| | - Maryam K Fard
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany
| | - Nicolas Snaidero
- Institute of Neuronal Cell Biology, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany; Hertie institute for Clinical Brain Research, Tuebingen University Hospital, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Adrian-Minh Schumacher
- Faculty of Medicine, Biomedical Center (BMC), Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany; Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Martin Kerschensteiner
- Faculty of Medicine, Biomedical Center (BMC), Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany; Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany; Munich Cluster of Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Misgeld
- Institute of Neuronal Cell Biology, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany; Munich Cluster of Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
| | - Martina Schifferer
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Munich, Germany; Munich Cluster of Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany.
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21
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Morphological and Chemical Investigation of Ovarian Structures in a Bovine Model by Contrast-Enhanced X-ray Imaging and Microscopy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043545. [PMID: 36834956 PMCID: PMC9963314 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
An improved understanding of an ovary's structures is highly desirable to support advances in folliculogenesis knowledge and reproductive medicine, with particular attention to fertility preservation options for prepubertal girls with malignant tumors. Although currently the golden standard for structural analysis is provided by combining histological sections, staining, and visible 2D microscopic inspection, synchrotron radiation phase-contrast microtomography is becoming a new challenge for three-dimensional studies at micrometric resolution. To this aim, the proper use of contrast agents can improve the visualization of internal structures in ovary tissues, which normally present a low radiopacity. In this study, we report a comparison of four staining protocols, based on iodine or tungsten containing agents, applied to bovine ovarian tissues fixed in Bouin's solution. The microtomography (microCT) analyses at two synchrotron facilities under different set-ups were performed at different energies in order to maximize the image contrast. While tungsten-based agents allow large structures to be well identified, Iodine ones better highlight smaller features, especially when acquired above the K-edge energy of the specific metal. Further scans performed at lower energy where the setup was optimized for overall quality and sensitivity from phase-contrast still provided highly resolved visualization of follicular and intrafollicular structures at different maturation stages, independent of the staining protocol. The analyses were complemented by X-ray Fluorescence mapping on 2D sections, showing that the tungsten-based agent has a higher penetration in this type of tissues.
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22
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Simulated microgravity reduces quality of ovarian follicles and oocytes by disrupting communications of follicle cells. NPJ Microgravity 2023; 9:7. [PMID: 36690655 PMCID: PMC9870914 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-023-00248-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian follicles are the fundamental structures that support oocyte development, and communications between oocytes and follicle somatic cells are crucial for oogenesis. However, it is unknown that whether exposure to microgravity influences cellular communications and ovarian follicle development, which might be harmful for female fertility. By 3D culturing of ovarian follicles under simulated microgravity (SMG) conditions in a rotating cell culture system, we found that SMG treatment did not affect the survival or general growth of follicles but decreased the quality of cultured follicles released oocytes. Ultrastructure detections by high-resolution imaging showed that the development of cellular communicating structures, including granulosa cell transzonal projections and oocyte microvilli, were markedly disrupted. These abnormalities caused chaotic polarity of granulosa cells (GCs) and a decrease in oocyte-secreted factors, such as Growth Differentiation Factor 9 (GDF9), which led to decreased quality of oocytes in these follicles. Therefore, the quality of oocytes was dramatically improved by the supplementations of GDF9 and NADPH-oxidase inhibitor apocynin. Together, our results suggest that exposure to simulated microgravity impairs the ultrastructure of ovarian follicles. Such impairment may affect female fertility in space environment.
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23
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Xie J, Xu X, Liu S. Intercellular communication in the cumulus-oocyte complex during folliculogenesis: A review. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1087612. [PMID: 36743407 PMCID: PMC9893509 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1087612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
During folliculogenesis, the oocyte and surrounding cumulus cells form an ensemble called the cumulus-oocyte complex (COC). Due to their interdependence, research on the COC has been a hot issue in the past few decades. A growing body of literature has revealed that intercellular communication is critical in determining oocyte quality and ovulation. This review provides an update on the current knowledge of COC intercellular communication, morphology, and functions. Transzonal projections (TZPs) and gap junctions are the most described structures of the COC. They provide basic metabolic and nutrient support, and abundant molecules for signaling pathways and regulations. Oocyte-secreted factors (OSFs) such as growth differentiation factor 9 and bone morphogenetic protein 15 have been linked with follicular homeostasis, suggesting that the communications are bidirectional. Using advanced techniques, new evidence has highlighted the existence of other structures that participate in intercellular communication. Extracellular vesicles can carry transcripts and signaling molecules. Microvilli on the oocyte can induce the formation of TZPs and secrete OSFs. Cell membrane fusion between the oocyte and cumulus cells can lead to sharing of cytoplasm, in a way making the COC a true whole. These findings give us new insights into related reproductive diseases like polycystic ovary syndrome and primary ovarian insufficiency and how to improve the outcomes of assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Xie
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Suying Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Suying Liu,
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24
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Clarke HJ. Transzonal projections: Essential structures mediating intercellular communication in the mammalian ovarian follicle. Mol Reprod Dev 2022; 89:509-525. [PMID: 36112806 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The development of germ cells relies on contact and communication with neighboring somatic cells that provide metabolic support and regulatory signals. In females, contact is achieved through thin cytoplasmic processes that project from follicle cells surrounding the oocyte, extend through an extracellular matrix (ECM) that lies between them, and reach its surface. In mammals, the ECM is termed the zona pellucida and the follicular cell processes are termed transzonal projections (TZPs). TZPs become detectable when the zona pellucida is laid down during early folliculogenesis and subsequently increase in number as oocyte growth progresses. They then rapidly disappear at the time of ovulation, permanently breaking germ-soma contact. Here we review the life cycle and functions of the TZPs. We begin with an overview of the morphology and cytoskeletal structure of TZPs, in the context of actin- and tubulin-based cytoplasmic processes in other cell types. Next, we review the roles played by TZPs in mediating progression through successive stages of oocyte development. We then discuss two mechanisms that may generate TZPs-stretching at pre-existing points of granulosa cell-oocyte contact and elaboration of new processes that push through the zona pellucida-as well as gene products implicated in their formation or function. Finally, we describe the signaling pathways that cause TZPs to be retracted in response to signals that also trigger meiotic maturation and ovulation of the oocyte. The principles and mechanisms that govern TZP behavior may be relevant to understanding communication between physically separated cells in other physiological contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugh J Clarke
- Program in Child Health and Human Development, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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25
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Peddie CJ, Genoud C, Kreshuk A, Meechan K, Micheva KD, Narayan K, Pape C, Parton RG, Schieber NL, Schwab Y, Titze B, Verkade P, Aubrey A, Collinson LM. Volume electron microscopy. NATURE REVIEWS. METHODS PRIMERS 2022; 2:51. [PMID: 37409324 PMCID: PMC7614724 DOI: 10.1038/s43586-022-00131-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Life exists in three dimensions, but until the turn of the century most electron microscopy methods provided only 2D image data. Recently, electron microscopy techniques capable of delving deep into the structure of cells and tissues have emerged, collectively called volume electron microscopy (vEM). Developments in vEM have been dubbed a quiet revolution as the field evolved from established transmission and scanning electron microscopy techniques, so early publications largely focused on the bioscience applications rather than the underlying technological breakthroughs. However, with an explosion in the uptake of vEM across the biosciences and fast-paced advances in volume, resolution, throughput and ease of use, it is timely to introduce the field to new audiences. In this Primer, we introduce the different vEM imaging modalities, the specialized sample processing and image analysis pipelines that accompany each modality and the types of information revealed in the data. We showcase key applications in the biosciences where vEM has helped make breakthrough discoveries and consider limitations and future directions. We aim to show new users how vEM can support discovery science in their own research fields and inspire broader uptake of the technology, finally allowing its full adoption into mainstream biological imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J. Peddie
- Electron Microscopy Science Technology Platform, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Christel Genoud
- Electron Microscopy Facility, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Anna Kreshuk
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kimberly Meechan
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
- Present address: Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kristina D. Micheva
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Kedar Narayan
- Center for Molecular Microscopy, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Cancer Research Technology Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Constantin Pape
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Robert G. Parton
- The Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nicole L. Schieber
- Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Yannick Schwab
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit/ Electron Microscopy Core Facility, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Paul Verkade
- School of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Aubrey Aubrey
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA
| | - Lucy M. Collinson
- Electron Microscopy Science Technology Platform, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
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26
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Marchais M, Gilbert I, Bastien A, Macaulay A, Robert C. Mammalian cumulus-oocyte complex communication: a dialog through long and short distance messaging. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:1011-1025. [PMID: 35499777 PMCID: PMC9107539 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02438-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Communications are crucial to ovarian follicle development and to ovulation, and while both folliculogenesis and oogenesis are distinct processes, they share highly interdependent signaling pathways. Signals from distant organs such as the brain must be processed and compartments within the follicle have to be synchronized. The hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis relies on long-distance signalling analogous to wireless communication by which data is disseminated in the environment and cells equipped with the appropriate receptors receive and interpret the messages. In contrast, direct cell-to-cell transfer of molecules is a very targeted, short distance messaging system. Numerous signalling pathways have been identified and proven to be essential for the production of a developmentally competent egg. The development of the cumulus-oocyte complex relies largely on short distance communications or direct transfer type via extensions of corona radiata cells through the zona pellucida. The type of information transmitted through these transzonal projections is still largely uncharacterized. This review provides an overview of current understanding of the mechanisms by which the gamete receives and transmits information within the follicle. Moreover, it highlights the fact that in addition to the well-known systemic long-distance based communications from the HPG axis, these mechanisms acting more locally should also be considered as important targets for controlling/optimizing oocyte quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Marchais
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Réseau Québécois en Reproduction (RQR), Pavillon Paul Comtois, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Isabelle Gilbert
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Réseau Québécois en Reproduction (RQR), Pavillon Paul Comtois, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Alexandre Bastien
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Réseau Québécois en Reproduction (RQR), Pavillon Paul Comtois, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Angus Macaulay
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Réseau Québécois en Reproduction (RQR), Pavillon Paul Comtois, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Claude Robert
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en Reproduction, Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle (CRDSI), Réseau Québécois en Reproduction (RQR), Pavillon Paul Comtois, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada.
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27
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Granados-Aparici S, Volodarsky-Perel A, Yang Q, Anam S, Tulandi T, Buckett W, Son WY, Younes G, Chung JT, Jin S, Terret MÉ, Clarke HJ. MYO10 promotes transzonal projection (TZP)-dependent germ line-somatic contact during mammalian folliculogenesis. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:474-487. [PMID: 35470858 PMCID: PMC9382396 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Granulosa cells of growing ovarian follicles elaborate filopodia-like structures termed transzonal projections (TZPs) that supply the enclosed oocyte with factors essential for its development. Little is known, however, of the mechanisms underlying the generation of TZPs. We show in mouse and human that filopodia, defined by an actin backbone, emerge from granulosa cells in early-stage primary follicles and that actin-rich TZPs become detectable as soon as a space corresponding to the zona pellucida appears. mRNA encoding Myosin10 (MYO10), a motor protein that accumulates at the base and tips of filopodia and has been implicated in their initiation and elongation, is present in granulosa cells and oocytes of growing follicles. MYO10 protein accumulates in foci located mainly between the oocyte and innermost layer of granulosa cells, where it co-localizes with actin. In both mouse and human, the number of MYO10 foci increases as oocytes grow, corresponding to the increase in the number of actin-TZPs. RNAi-mediated depletion of MYO10 in cultured mouse granulosa cell-oocyte complexes is associated with a 52% reduction in the number of MYO10 foci and a 28% reduction in the number of actin-TZPs. Moreover, incubation of cumulus-oocyte complexes in the presence of epidermal growth factor, which triggers a 93% reduction in the number of actin-TZPs, is associated with a 55% reduction in the number of MYO10 foci. These results suggest that granulosa cells possess an ability to elaborate filopodia, which when directed towards the oocyte become actin-TZPs, and that MYO10 increases the efficiency of formation or maintenance of actin-TZPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Granados-Aparici
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
| | - Alexander Volodarsky-Perel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
| | - Qin Yang
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
| | - Sibat Anam
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Togas Tulandi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
| | - William Buckett
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
| | - Weon-Young Son
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Grace Younes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada
| | - Jin-Tae Chung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Shaoguang Jin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | | | - Hugh J Clarke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada.,Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
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28
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Sabry R, Nguyen M, Younes S, Favetta LA. BPA and its analogs increase oxidative stress levels in in vitro cultured granulosa cells by altering anti-oxidant enzymes expression. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2022; 545:111574. [PMID: 35065199 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2022.111574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Bisphenol A is a widespread endocrine disruptor with numerous effects on reproductive functions. Limitations on BPA in manufacturing has prompted the use of analogs, such as BPS and BPF, with limited research on their safety. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of BPA and its analogs on oxidative stress levels within bovine granulosa cells and to measure the expression of key antioxidant genes. Results indicate that BPA and BPF reduce cell viability and induce mitochondrial dysfunction and all three bisphenols increased production of reactive oxygen species as early as 12hrs post exposure. BPA increased the levels of antioxidants at 12hrs at the mRNA and protein levels, while these results were not significant at 48hrs. These results together suggest that BPA and its analogs can induce oxidative stress within bovine granulosa cells, although not necessarily through common mechanisms. Therefore, the use of BPA analogs may have to be re-considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Sabry
- Reproductive Health and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - M Nguyen
- Reproductive Health and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - S Younes
- Reproductive Health and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - L A Favetta
- Reproductive Health and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada.
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29
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Babayev E, Duncan FE. Age-associated changes in cumulus cells and follicular fluid: the local oocyte microenvironment as a determinant of gamete quality. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:351-365. [PMID: 34982142 PMCID: PMC8862720 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The ovary is the first organ to age in humans with functional decline evident already in women in their early 30s. Reproductive aging is characterized by a decrease in oocyte quantity and quality, which is associated with an increase in infertility, spontaneous abortions, and birth defects. Reproductive aging also has implications for overall health due to decreased endocrinological output. Understanding the mechanisms underlying reproductive aging has significant societal implications as women globally are delaying childbearing and medical interventions have greatly increased the interval between menopause and total lifespan. Age-related changes inherent to the female gamete are well-characterized and include defects in chromosome and mitochondria structure, function, and regulation. More recently, it has been appreciated that the extra-follicular ovarian environment may have important direct or indirect impacts on the developing gamete, and age-dependent changes include increased fibrosis, inflammation, stiffness, and oxidative damage. The cumulus cells and follicular fluid that directly surround the oocyte during its final growth phase within the antral follicle represent additional critical local microenvironments. Here we systematically review the literature and evaluate the studies that investigated the age-related changes in cumulus cells and follicular fluid. Our findings demonstrate unique genetic, epigenetic, transcriptomic, and proteomic changes with associated metabolomic alterations, redox status imbalance, and increased apoptosis in the local oocyte microenvironment. We propose a model of how these changes interact, which may explain the rapid decline in gamete quality with age. We also review the limitations of published studies and highlight future research frontiers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elnur Babayev
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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30
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Alberico HC, Woods DC. Role of Granulosa Cells in the Aging Ovarian Landscape: A Focus on Mitochondrial and Metabolic Function. Front Physiol 2022; 12:800739. [PMID: 35153812 PMCID: PMC8829508 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.800739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are at the intersection of aging and fertility, with research efforts centered largely on the role that these specialized organelles play in the relatively rapid decline in oocyte quality that occurs as females approach reproductive senescence. In addition to various roles in oocyte maturation, fertilization, and embryogenesis, mitochondria are critical to granulosa cell function. Herein, we provide a review of the literature pertaining to the role of mitochondria in granulosa cell function, with emphasis on how mitochondrial aging in granulosa cells may impact reproduction in female mammals.
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31
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Wassarman PM, Litscher ES. Female fertility and the zona pellucida. eLife 2022; 11:76106. [PMID: 35076396 PMCID: PMC8789258 DOI: 10.7554/elife.76106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertility in female mammals, including mice and humans, is dependent on the presence of a zona pellucida (ZP) around growing oocytes and unfertilized eggs. A ZP is required to stabilize contacts between oocyte microvilli and follicle cell projections that traverse the ZP to form gap junctions that support the health of growing oocytes and developing follicles. In the absence of a ZP, due to inactivation or mutation of genes encoding ZP proteins, there is a loss of contacts between growing oocytes and neighboring follicle cells and a concomitant reduction in the production of ovulated eggs that results in female infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul M Wassarman
- Department Cell, Developmental, and Regenerative Biology Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai One Gustave L. Levy Place
| | - Eveline S Litscher
- Department Cell, Developmental, and Regenerative Biology Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai One Gustave L. Levy Place
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Chen M, He C, Zhu K, Chen Z, Meng Z, Jiang X, Cai J, Yang C, Zuo Z. Resveratrol ameliorates polycystic ovary syndrome via transzonal projections within oocyte-granulosa cell communication. Theranostics 2022; 12:782-795. [PMID: 34976213 PMCID: PMC8692920 DOI: 10.7150/thno.67167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is closely linked to follicular dysplasia and impaired bidirectional oocyte-granulosa cell (GC) communication. Given that PCOS is a heterogeneous, multifactorial endocrine disorder, it is important to clarify the pathophysiology of this ovarian disease and identify a specific treatment. Methods: We generated PCOS rat models based on neonatal tributyltin (TBT) exposure and studied the therapeutic effect and mechanism of resveratrol (RSV), a natural plant polyphenol. Transcriptome analysis was conducted to screen the significantly changed pathways, and a series of experiments, such as quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Western blot and phalloidin staining, were performed in rat ovaries. We also observed similar changes in human PCOS samples using Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database analysis and quantitative real-time PCR. Results: We first found that injury to transzonal projections (TZPs), which are specialized filopodia that mediate oocyte-GC communication in follicles, may play an important role in the etiology of PCOS. We successfully established PCOS rat models using TBT and found that overexpressed calcium-/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II beta (CaMKIIβ) inhibited TZP assembly. In addition, TZP disruption and CAMK2B upregulation were also observed in samples from PCOS patients. Moreover, we demonstrated that RSV potently ameliorated ovarian failure and estrus cycle disorder through TZP recovery via increased cytoplasmic calcium levels and excessive phosphorylation of CaMKIIβ. Conclusions: Our data indicated that upregulation of CaMKIIβ may play a critical role in regulating TZP assembly and may be involved in the pathogenesis of PCOS associated with ovarian dysfunction. Investigation of TZPs and RSV as potent CaMKIIβ activators provides new insight and a therapeutic target for PCOS, which is helpful for improving female reproduction.
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Zhang H, Li C, Wen D, Li R, Lu S, Xu R, Tang Y, Sun Y, Zhao X, Pan M, Ma B. Melatonin improves the quality of maternally aged oocytes by maintaining intercellular communication and antioxidant metabolite supply. Redox Biol 2021; 49:102215. [PMID: 34929573 PMCID: PMC8688718 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2021.102215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammalian ovaries, oocytes are physically coupled to somatic granulosa cells, and this coupling is crucial for the growth and development of competent oocytes as it mediates the transfer of metabolic support molecules. However, aging-mediated dysregulation in communication between the oocytes and granulosa cells affects the oocyte quality. In the present study, we examined the defected germline-soma communication and reduced mRNA levels encoding key structural components of transzonal projections (TZPs) in maternally aged oocytes. Oral administration of melatonin to aged mice substantially increased TZPs and maintained the cumulus cells-oocyte communication, which played a central role in the production of adequate oocyte ATP levels and reducing the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), apoptosis, DNA damage, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and spindle/chromosomal defects. This beneficial effect of melatonin was inhibited by carbenoxolone (CBX), a gap junctional uncoupler, which disrupts bidirectional communications between oocyte and somatic cells. Simultaneously, melatonin significantly increased the mRNA and protein levels corresponding to genes associated with TZPs and prevented TZP retraction in in vitro-cultured cumulus-oocyte complex (COCs). Furthermore, we infused melatonin and CBX into the COCs in vitro culture system and monitored the levels of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) and glutathione (GSH) in cumulus cells and oocytes. Notably, COCs treated with melatonin demonstrated improved NADPH and GSH levels. Of note, CBX was capable of reducing NADPH and GSH levels, aggravated the ROS accumulation and ER stress. Collectively, our data demonstrate the role of melatonin in preventing age-associated germline-soma communication defects, aiding the relay of antioxidant metabolic molecules for the maintenance of oocyte quality from cumulus cells, which have important potential for improving deficient phenotypes of maternally aged oocytes and the treatment of woman infertility. Communication between the oocytes and cumulus cells declines with age. Melatonin repair of aging-induced dysregulation in communication between the oocytes and cumulus cells. Melatonin preventing age-associated metabolic co-dependence defects of oocytes and cumulus cells. Melatonin attenuates mitochondrial dysfunction and endoplasmic reticulum stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Chan Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongxu Wen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruoyu Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Sihai Lu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaju Tang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Yidan Sun
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoe Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Menghao Pan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Baohua Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.
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34
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Robert C. Nurturing the egg: the essential connection between cumulus cells and the oocyte. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 34:149-159. [PMID: 35231386 DOI: 10.1071/rd21282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The determinants of oocyte quality remain uncertain. Under suitable conditions, which have yet to be defined, the gamete grows and acquires the competence to resume meiosis, be fertilised and undergo embryonic development at least beyond genome activation, after which the blastomere is autonomous enough to adapt to the specificity of its environment. This review describes the central role played by the oocyte in reproductive success and how communication between cumulus cells and the oocyte are essential to proper oogenesis and the quality of the resulting gamete. While most attempts to improve oocyte quality have been directed at gonadotrophin-based systemic endocrine signalling, it is proposed that parallel control of fertility may act locally within ovarian follicles through intimate cooperation between somatic cells and the oocyte via the network of transzonal projections. This intercellular communication may prove to be more sensitive to environmental conditions than systemic endocrine signalling, which is essential for many non-reproductive tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claude Robert
- Département des sciences animales, Faculté des sciences de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
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35
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Fushii M, Yamada R, Lee J, Miyano T. Reestablishment of transzonal projections and growth of bovine oocytes in vitro. J Reprod Dev 2021; 67:300-306. [PMID: 34421085 PMCID: PMC8568608 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2021-036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Transzonal projections (TZPs) that maintain bidirectional communication between oocytes and granulosa cells or cumulus cells are important structures for oocyte growth. However, whether
TZPs develop between TZP-free oocytes and granulosa cells, and whether reestablished TZPs support oocyte growth, is unknown. We first examined changes in TZPs after denudation of bovine
oocytes collected from early antral follicles (0.5–0.7 mm). Twenty-four hours after denudation, almost all the TZPs disappeared. We also examined the reestablishment of TZPs by coculturing
TZP-free denuded oocytes (DOs) with mural granulosa cells (MGCs) collected from early antral follicles. In addition, to confirm if the reestablished TZPs were functional, the reconstructed
complexes (DO+MGCs) were subjected to in vitro growth culture and found that the MGCs adhered to TZP-free DOs and TZPs were reestablished. During in vitro
growth culture, DO+MGCs developed and formed antrum-like structures. After culture, the number of TZPs in DO+MGCs increased, and the oocytes grew fully and acquired meiotic competence. These
results suggest that reestablished TZPs are able to support oocyte growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihoko Fushii
- Laboratory of Developmental Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe 657-8501, Japan
| | - Rie Yamada
- Laboratory of Developmental Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe 657-8501, Japan
| | - Jibak Lee
- Laboratory of Developmental Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe 657-8501, Japan
| | - Takashi Miyano
- Laboratory of Developmental Biotechnology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe 657-8501, Japan
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36
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Abstract
Morphological transitions are typically attributed to the actions of proteins and lipids. Largely overlooked in membrane shape regulation is the glycocalyx, a pericellular membrane coat that resides on all cells in the human body. Comprised of complex sugar polymers known as glycans as well as glycosylated lipids and proteins, the glycocalyx is ideally positioned to impart forces on the plasma membrane. Large, unstructured polysaccharides and glycoproteins in the glycocalyx can generate crowding pressures strong enough to induce membrane curvature. Stress may also originate from glycan chains that convey curvature preference on asymmetrically distributed lipids, which are exploited by binding factors and infectious agents to induce morphological changes. Through such forces, the glycocalyx can have profound effects on the biogenesis of functional cell surface structures as well as the secretion of extracellular vesicles. In this review, we discuss recent evidence and examples of these mechanisms in normal health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joe Chin-Hun Kuo
- Robert Frederick Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA; ,
| | - Matthew J Paszek
- Robert Frederick Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA; , .,Field of Biomedical Engineering and Field of Biophysics, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA.,Kavli Institute at Cornell for Nanoscale Science, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
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37
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Wood BM, Baena V, Huang H, Jorgens DM, Terasaki M, Kornberg TB. Cytonemes with complex geometries and composition extend into invaginations of target cells. J Cell Biol 2021; 220:211896. [PMID: 33734293 PMCID: PMC7980254 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202101116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytonemes are specialized filopodia that mediate paracrine signaling in Drosophila and other animals. Studies using fluorescence confocal microscopy (CM) established their general paths, cell targets, and essential roles in signaling. To investigate details unresolvable by CM, we used high-pressure freezing and EM to visualize cytoneme structures, paths, contents, and contacts. We observed cytonemes previously seen by CM in the Drosophila wing imaginal disc system, including disc, tracheal air sac primordium (ASP), and myoblast cytonemes, and identified cytonemes extending into invaginations of target cells, and cytonemes connecting ASP cells and connecting myoblasts. Diameters of cytoneme shafts vary between repeating wide (206 ± 51.8 nm) and thin (55.9 ± 16.2 nm) segments. Actin, ribosomes, and membranous compartments are present throughout; rough ER and mitochondria are in wider proximal sections. These results reveal novel structural features of filopodia and provide a basis for understanding cytoneme cell biology and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brent M Wood
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Valentina Baena
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT
| | - Hai Huang
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Danielle M Jorgens
- Electron Microscope Laboratory, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA
| | - Mark Terasaki
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT
| | - Thomas B Kornberg
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
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38
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Turathum B, Gao EM, Chian RC. The Function of Cumulus Cells in Oocyte Growth and Maturation and in Subsequent Ovulation and Fertilization. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092292. [PMID: 34571941 PMCID: PMC8470117 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cumulus cells (CCs) originating from undifferentiated granulosa cells (GCs) differentiate in mural granulosa cells (MGCs) and CCs during antrum formation in the follicle by the distribution of location. CCs are supporting cells of the oocyte that protect the oocyte from the microenvironment, which helps oocyte growth and maturation in the follicles. Bi-directional communications between an oocyte and CCs are necessary for the oocyte for the acquisition of maturation and early embryonic developmental competence following fertilization. Follicle-stimulation hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) surges lead to the synthesis of an extracellular matrix in CCs, and CCs undergo expansion to assist meiotic resumption of the oocyte. The function of CCs is involved in the completion of oocyte meiotic maturation and ovulation, fertilization, and subsequent early embryo development. Therefore, understanding the function of CCs during follicular development may be helpful for predicting oocyte quality and subsequent embryonic development competence, as well as pregnancy outcomes in the field of reproductive medicine and assisted reproductive technology (ART) for infertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bongkoch Turathum
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai 10th People Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China;
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine Vajira Hospital, Navamindradhiraj University, Bangkok 10300, Thailand
| | - Er-Meng Gao
- Shanghai Clinical College, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China;
| | - Ri-Cheng Chian
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai 10th People Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai 200072, China;
- Shanghai Clinical College, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-18917687092
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39
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Cadoret V, Jarrier-Gaillard P, Papillier P, Monniaux D, Guérif F, Dalbies-Tran R. Leukaemia inhibitory factor modulates the differentiation of granulosa cells during sheep in vitro preantral to antral follicle development and improves oocyte meiotic competence. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:6355046. [PMID: 34411256 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaab051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro follicle development from cryopreserved ovarian tissue could become an invaluable assisted reproduction technology for women with early ovarian failure. The challenge lies in producing, from small follicles present in the ovarian cortex, high-quality mature oocytes able to sustain embryo development. In vivo, an optimal combination of hormones and other factors coordinates the development of follicles and their enclosed oocyte. We have investigated the effect of the leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF) cytokine, alone or in combination with FSH, on sheep in vitro follicle development from the preantral stage onwards. LIF did not alter follicle growth or antrum formation, but it modulated the differentiation of granulosa cells, as revealed by decreased production of anti-Müllerian hormone and abolished FSH-induced stimulation of oestradiol secretion. This modulatory role was also reflected in the abundance of mRNA from 35 genes, analysed by reverse-transcription coupled to microfluidic quantitative PCR. LIF stimulated or at least maintained the expression of genes involved in the dialogue between the oocyte and granulosa cells, through gap junctions (GJA4 encoding connexin 37) or paracrine signalling (Bone morphogenetic protein 15, KIT ligand and their receptors). Finally, the presence of both LIF and FSH during follicle growth strongly improved oocyte meiotic competence: most oocytes (56%) underwent subsequent nuclear maturation, a significant increase compared with their counterparts from follicles of similar size (550-900 µm) cultured with FSH only (28%) or developed in vivo (9%). Their ability to sustain embryo development remains to be evaluated. Combined supplementation with FSH and LIF certainly merits investigation with human follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Cadoret
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France.,CHRU de Tours, Service de Médecine et Biologie de la Reproduction-CECOS, Tours, France
| | | | - P Papillier
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
| | - D Monniaux
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
| | - F Guérif
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France.,CHRU de Tours, Service de Médecine et Biologie de la Reproduction-CECOS, Tours, France
| | - R Dalbies-Tran
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
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40
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Veikkolainen V, Ali N, Doroszko M, Kiviniemi A, Miinalainen I, Ohlsson C, Poutanen M, Rahman N, Elenius K, Vainio SJ, Naillat F. Erbb4 regulates the oocyte microenvironment during folliculogenesis. Hum Mol Genet 2021; 29:2813-2830. [PMID: 32716031 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddaa161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders leading to infertility in women affecting reproductive, endocrine and metabolic systems. Recent genomewide association studies on PCOS cohorts revealed a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the ERBB4 receptor tyrosine kinase 4 gene, but its role in ovary development or during folliculogenesis remains poorly understood. Since no genetic animal models mimicking all PCOS reproductive features are available, we conditionally deleted Erbb4 in murine granulosa cells (GCs) under the control of Amh promoter. While we have demonstrated that Erbb4 deletion displayed aberrant ovarian function by affecting the reproductive function (asynchronous oestrous cycle leading to few ovulations and subfertility) and metabolic function (obesity), their ovaries also present severe structural and functional abnormalities (impaired oocyte development). Hormone analysis revealed an up-regulation of serum luteinizing hormone, hyperandrogenism, increased production of ovarian and circulating anti-Müllerian hormone. Our data implicate that Erbb4 deletion in GCs leads to defective intercellular junctions between the GCs and oocytes, causing changes in the expression of genes regulating the local microenvironment of the follicles. In vitro culture assays reducing the level of Erbb4 via shRNAs confirm that Erbb4 is essential for regulating Amh level. In conclusion, our results indicate a functional role for Erbb4 in the ovary, especially during folliculogenesis and its reduced expression plays an important role in reproductive pathophysiology, such as PCOS development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ville Veikkolainen
- Institute of Biomedicine and MediCity Research Laboratory, University of Turku, FI-20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Nsrein Ali
- Organogenesis Laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, FI-90014 Oulu, Finland
| | - Milena Doroszko
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, FI-20520 Turku, Finland.,Department of Immunology Genetics and Pathology, Section for Neuro-oncology, Uppsala University, 752 36 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Antti Kiviniemi
- Organogenesis Laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, FI-90014 Oulu, Finland
| | - Ilkka Miinalainen
- Electron Microscopy Unit, Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, FI-90220 Oulu, Finland
| | - Claes Ohlsson
- Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, SE-41345 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Matti Poutanen
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, FI-20520 Turku, Finland.,Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, SE-41345 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Nafis Rahman
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, FI-20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Klaus Elenius
- Institute of Biomedicine and MediCity Research Laboratory, University of Turku, FI-20520 Turku, Finland.,Department of Oncology, Turku University Hospital, FI-20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Seppo J Vainio
- Department of Immunology Genetics and Pathology, Section for Neuro-oncology, Uppsala University, 752 36 Uppsala, Sweden.,InfoTech Oulu, Oulu University and Biobank Borealis of Northern Finland, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, FI-90014 Oulu, FINLAND
| | - Florence Naillat
- Organogenesis Laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biocenter Oulu, University of Oulu, FI-90014 Oulu, Finland
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41
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Human Granulosa Cells-Stemness Properties, Molecular Cross-Talk and Follicular Angiogenesis. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061396. [PMID: 34198768 PMCID: PMC8229878 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The ovarian follicle is the basic functional unit of the ovary, comprising theca cells and granulosa cells (GCs). Two different types of GCs, mural GCs and cumulus cells (CCs), serve different functions during folliculogenesis. Mural GCs produce oestrogen during the follicular phase and progesterone after ovulation, while CCs surround the oocyte tightly and form the cumulus oophurus and corona radiata inner cell layer. CCs are also engaged in bi-directional metabolite exchange with the oocyte, as they form gap-junctions, which are crucial for both the oocyte’s proper maturation and GC proliferation. However, the function of both GCs and CCs is dependent on proper follicular angiogenesis. Aside from participating in complex molecular interplay with the oocyte, the ovarian follicular cells exhibit stem-like properties, characteristic of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Both GCs and CCs remain under the influence of various miRNAs, and some of them may contribute to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) occurrence. Considering increasing female fertility problems worldwide, it is of interest to develop new strategies enhancing assisted reproductive techniques. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider GCs as ovarian stem cells in terms of the cellular features and molecular pathways involved in their development and interactions as well as outline their possible application in translational medicine.
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42
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Cafe SL, Nixon B, Ecroyd H, Martin JH, Skerrett-Byrne DA, Bromfield EG. Proteostasis in the Male and Female Germline: A New Outlook on the Maintenance of Reproductive Health. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:660626. [PMID: 33937261 PMCID: PMC8085359 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.660626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
For fully differentiated, long lived cells the maintenance of protein homeostasis (proteostasis) becomes a crucial determinant of cellular function and viability. Neurons are the most well-known example of this phenomenon where the majority of these cells must survive the entire course of life. However, male and female germ cells are also uniquely dependent on the maintenance of proteostasis to achieve successful fertilization. Oocytes, also long-lived cells, are subjected to prolonged periods of arrest and are largely reliant on the translation of stored mRNAs, accumulated during the growth period, to support meiotic maturation and subsequent embryogenesis. Conversely, sperm cells, while relatively ephemeral, are completely reliant on proteostasis due to the absence of both transcription and translation. Despite these remarkable, cell-specific features there has been little focus on understanding protein homeostasis in reproductive cells and how/whether proteostasis is "reset" during embryogenesis. Here, we seek to capture the momentum of this growing field by highlighting novel findings regarding germline proteostasis and how this knowledge can be used to promote reproductive health. In this review we capture proteostasis in the context of both somatic cell and germline aging and discuss the influence of oxidative stress on protein function. In particular, we highlight the contributions of proteostasis changes to oocyte aging and encourage a focus in this area that may complement the extensive analyses of DNA damage and aneuploidy that have long occupied the oocyte aging field. Moreover, we discuss the influence of common non-enzymatic protein modifications on the stability of proteins in the male germline, how these changes affect sperm function, and how they may be prevented to preserve fertility. Through this review we aim to bring to light a new trajectory for our field and highlight the potential to harness the germ cell's natural proteostasis mechanisms to improve reproductive health. This manuscript will be of interest to those in the fields of proteostasis, aging, male and female gamete reproductive biology, embryogenesis, and life course health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenae L. Cafe
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Heath Ecroyd
- Molecular Horizons, School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Jacinta H. Martin
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University Health Centre Research Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - David A. Skerrett-Byrne
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Elizabeth G. Bromfield
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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43
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Norris RP. Transfer of mitochondria and endosomes between cells by gap junction internalization. Traffic 2021; 22:174-179. [PMID: 33797162 DOI: 10.1111/tra.12786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Intercellular organelle transfer has been documented in several cell types and has been proposed to be important for cell-cell communication and cellular repair. However, the mechanisms by which organelle transfer occurs are uncertain. Recent studies indicate that the gap junction protein, connexin 43 (Cx43), is required for mitochondrial transfer but its specific role is unknown. Using three-dimensional electron microscopy and immunogold labeling of Cx43, this report shows that whole organelles including mitochondria and endosomes are incorporated into double-membrane vesicles, called connexosomes or annular gap junctions, that form as a result of gap junction internalization. These findings demonstrate a novel mechanism for intercellular organelle transfer mediated by Cx43 gap junctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael P Norris
- Department of Cell Biology, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
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Stracuzzi A, Dittmann J, Böl M, Ehret AE. Visco- and poroelastic contributions of the zona pellucida to the mechanical response of oocytes. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2021; 20:751-765. [PMID: 33533999 PMCID: PMC7979617 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-020-01414-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Probing mechanical properties of cells has been identified as a means to infer information on their current state, e.g. with respect to diseases or differentiation. Oocytes have gained particular interest, since mechanical parameters are considered potential indicators of the success of in vitro fertilisation procedures. Established tests provide the structural response of the oocyte resulting from the material properties of the cell's components and their disposition. Based on dedicated experiments and numerical simulations, we here provide novel insights on the origin of this response. In particular, polarised light microscopy is used to characterise the anisotropy of the zona pellucida, the outermost layer of the oocyte composed of glycoproteins. This information is combined with data on volumetric changes and the force measured in relaxation/cyclic, compression/indentation experiments to calibrate a multi-phasic hyper-viscoelastic model through inverse finite element analysis. These simulations capture the oocyte's overall force response, the distinct volume changes observed in the zona pellucida, and the structural alterations interpreted as a realignment of the glycoproteins with applied load. The analysis reveals the presence of two distinct timescales, roughly separated by three orders of magnitude, and associated with a rapid outflow of fluid across the external boundaries and a long-term, progressive relaxation of the glycoproteins, respectively. The new results allow breaking the overall response down into the contributions from fluid transport and the mechanical properties of the zona pellucida and ooplasm. In addition to the gain in fundamental knowledge, the outcome of this study may therefore serve an improved interpretation of the data obtained with current methods for mechanical oocyte characterisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Stracuzzi
- Institute for Mechanical Systems, ETH Zurich, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, 8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Johannes Dittmann
- Institute of Mechanics and Adaptronics, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Braunschweig, 38106, Germany
| | - Markus Böl
- Institute of Mechanics and Adaptronics, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Braunschweig, 38106, Germany.
| | - Alexander E Ehret
- Institute for Mechanical Systems, ETH Zurich, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, 8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland.
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Yin B, Zhang H, Xie J, Wei Y, Zhang C, Meng L. Validation of preimplantation genetic tests for aneuploidy (PGT-A) with DNA from spent culture media (SCM): concordance assessment and implication. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:41. [PMID: 33673853 PMCID: PMC7936457 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00714-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spent culture medium (SCM) as a source of DNA for preimplantation genetic tests aneuploidy (PGT-A) has been widely discussed. METHODS Seventy-five blastocysts that were donated for research provided a unique possibility in which multiple specimens, including trophectoderm (TE) biopsy, SCM, and paired corresponding whole blastocyst (WB) specimens from the same blastocyst source, could be utilized for the purpose of this preclinical validation. RESULTS To conduct a validation ploidy concordance assessment, we evaluated the full chromosomal concordance rates between SCM and WB (SCM-to-WB), and between TE and WB (TE-to-WB) as well as sensitivity, specificity and overall diagnostic accuracy. 78.67% (59/75) of NGS results in the SCM group were interpretable, a significantly lower percentage than their corresponding TE and WB groups. This discrepancy manifests itself in intrinsically low quantity and poor integrity DNA from SCM. Subsequently, remarkable differences in full concordance rates (including mosaicism, and segmental aneuploidies) are seen as follows: 32.2% (SCM-to-WB, 19/59) and 69.33% (TE-to-WB, 52/75), (p < 0.001). In such cases, full concordance rates were 27.27% (15/55) in SCM-to-WB, and, 76% (57/75) in TE-to-WB (p < 0.001). Collectively, the NGS data from SCM also translated into lower sensitivities, Positive Predictive Value (PPV), Negative Predictive Value (NPV), overall diagnostic accuracies, and higher Negative Likelihood Ratio (NLR). CONCLUSIONS Our study reveals that DNA is detectable in the majority of SCM samples. Individual chromosomal aberration, such as segmental aneuploidy and mosaicism, can be quantitatively and qualitatively measured. However, TE still provides a more accurate and reliable high-throughput methodology for PGT-A. Meanwhile, cell-free DNA in SCM reporting lacks uniform diagnostic interpretations. Considering that this test is meant to determine which embryos are relegated to be discarded, PGT-A with cell-free DNA in SCM should not be permitted to be applied in routine clinical settings for diagnosis purpose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoli Yin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China
- Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University Zhengzhou, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China
| | - Huijuan Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China
- Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University Zhengzhou, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China
| | - Juanke Xie
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China
- Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University Zhengzhou, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China
| | - Yubao Wei
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China
- Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University Zhengzhou, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China
| | - Cuilian Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.
- Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University Zhengzhou, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.
| | - Li Meng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.
- Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University Zhengzhou, Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.
- Incinta Fertility Center, Torrance, California, 90503, USA.
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Abbassi L, El-Hayek S, Carvalho KF, Wang W, Yang Q, Granados-Aparici S, Mondadori R, Bordignon V, Clarke HJ. Epidermal growth factor receptor signaling uncouples germ cells from the somatic follicular compartment at ovulation. Nat Commun 2021; 12:1438. [PMID: 33664246 PMCID: PMC7933413 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-21644-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Germ cells are physically coupled to somatic support cells of the gonad during differentiation, but this coupling must be disrupted when they are mature, freeing them to participate in fertilization. In mammalian females, coupling occurs via specialized filopodia that project from the ovarian follicular granulosa cells to the oocyte. Here, we show that signaling through the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in the granulosa, which becomes activated at ovulation, uncouples the germ and somatic cells by triggering a massive and temporally synchronized retraction of the filopodia. Although EGFR signaling triggers meiotic maturation of the oocyte, filopodial retraction is independent of the germ cell state, being regulated solely within the somatic compartment, where it requires ERK-dependent calpain-mediated loss of filopodia-oocyte adhesion followed by Arp2/3-mediated filopodial shortening. By uncovering the mechanism regulating germ-soma uncoupling at ovulation, our results open a path to improving oocyte quality in human and animal reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laleh Abbassi
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Stephany El-Hayek
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
- Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
- Centre for Arab Genomic Studies, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Karen Freire Carvalho
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Wusu Wang
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Qin Yang
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | | | - Rafael Mondadori
- Department of Animal Science, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Vilceu Bordignon
- Department of Animal Science, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Hugh J Clarke
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada.
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
- Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
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47
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Tscherner AK, Macaulay AD, Ortman CS, Baltz JM. Initiation of cell volume regulation and unique cell volume regulatory mechanisms in mammalian oocytes and embryos. J Cell Physiol 2021; 236:7117-7133. [PMID: 33634482 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The period beginning with the signal for ovulation, when a fully-grown oocyte progresses through meiosis to become a mature egg that is fertilized and develops as a preimplantation embryo, is crucial for healthy development. The early preimplantation embryo is unusually sensitive to cell volume perturbations, with even moderate decreases in volume or dysregulation of volume-regulatory mechanisms resulting in developmental arrest. To prevent this, early embryos possess mechanisms of cell volume control that are apparently unique to them. These rely on the accumulation of glycine and betaine (N, N, N-trimethylglycine) as organic osmolytes-compounds that can provide intracellular osmotic support without the deleterious effects of inorganic ions. Preimplantation embryos also have the same mechanisms as somatic cells that mediate rapid responses to deviations in cell volume, which rely on inorganic ion transport. Both the unique, embryo-specific mechanisms that use glycine and betaine and the inorganic ion-dependent mechanisms undergo major changes during meiotic maturation and preimplantation development. The most profound changes occur immediately after ovulation is triggered. Before this, oocytes cannot regulate their volume, since they are strongly attached to their rigid extracellular matrix shell, the zona pellucida. After ovulation is triggered, the oocyte detaches from the zona pellucida and first becomes capable of independent volume regulation. A complex set of developmental changes in each cell volume-regulatory mechanism continues through egg maturation and preimplantation development. The unique cell volume-regulatory mechanisms in eggs and preimplantation embryos and the developmental changes they undergo appear critical for normal healthy embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison K Tscherner
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Angus D Macaulay
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Chyna S Ortman
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jay M Baltz
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Zhang Y, Zhou X, Zhu Y, Wang H, Xu J, Su Y. Current mechanisms of primordial follicle activation and new strategies for fertility preservation. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:6128515. [PMID: 33538812 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaab005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is characterized by symptoms caused by ovarian dysfunction in patients aged <40 years. It is associated with a shortened reproductive lifespan. The only effective treatment for patients who are eager to become pregnant is IVF/Embryo Transfer (ET) using oocytes donated by young women. However, the use of the technique is constrained by the limited supply of oocytes and ethical issues. Some patients with POI still have some residual follicles in the ovarian cortex, which are not regulated by gonadotropin. These follicles are dormant. Therefore, activating dormant primordial follicles (PFs) to obtain high-quality oocytes for assisted reproductive technology may bring new hope for patients with POI. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the factors related to PF activation, such as the intercellular signaling network, the internal microenvironment of the ovary and the environment of the organism. In addition, we discussed new strategies for fertility preservation, such as in vitro activation and stem cell transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University (Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital), Nanjing 210004, China
| | - Xiaomei Zhou
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University (Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital), Nanjing 210004, China
| | - Ye Zhu
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University (Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital), Nanjing 210004, China
| | - Hanbin Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University (Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital), Nanjing 210004, China
| | - Juan Xu
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University (Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital), Nanjing 210004, China
| | - Yiping Su
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University (Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital), Nanjing 210004, China
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Antel M, Baena V, Terasaki M, Inaba M. Ultrastructural Analysis of Cell-Cell Interactions in Drosophila Ovary. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2346:79-90. [PMID: 33460026 DOI: 10.1007/7651_2020_342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The Drosophila ovary is an exceptional model for studying cell-cell interactions in vivo. Cells communicate with each other in a highly coordinated manner. Accurate spatiotemporal regulation of cell-cell interaction is critical for the development of eggs. Ultrastructural analysis using electron microscopy (EM) permits the visualization of both cells and subcellular signaling structures with high resolution. Here we describe a method for the processing of intact fly ovaries by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Antel
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Valentina Baena
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Mark Terasaki
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Mayu Inaba
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA.
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50
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Santacruz-Márquez R, Solorio-Rodríguez A, González-Posos S, García-Zepeda SP, Santoyo-Salazar J, De Vizcaya-Ruiz A, Hernández-Ochoa I. Comparative effects of TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles on growth and ultrastructure of ovarian antral follicles. Reprod Toxicol 2020; 96:399-412. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2020.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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