1
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Morawiec S, Ajduk A, Stremplewski P, Kennedy BF, Szkulmowski M. Full-field optical coherence microscopy enables high-resolution label-free imaging of the dynamics of live mouse oocytes and early embryos. Commun Biol 2024; 7:1057. [PMID: 39191989 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06745-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
High quality label-free imaging of oocytes and early embryos is essential for accurate assessment of their developmental potential, a key element of assisted reproduction procedures. To achieve this goal, we propose full-field optical coherence microscopy (FF-OCM), constructed as a compact module fully integrated with a commercial wide-field fluorescence microscope. Our system achieves optical sectioning in wide-field, high in-plane resolution of 0.5 µm, and high sensitivity to backscattered light. To demonstrate its imaging capabilities, we study live mouse oocytes and embryos at all important stages of meiotic maturation and early embryogenesis. Our system enables visualization of intracellular structures, which are not visible in common bright-field microscopy, i.e., internal structure of nuclear apparatus, cytoskeletal filaments, cellular cortex, cytoplasmic protrusions, or zona pellucida features. Additionally, we visualize and quantify intracellular dynamics like cytoplasmic stirring motion, nuclear envelope fluctuations and nucleolus mobility. Altogether, we demonstrate that FF-OCM is a powerful tool for research in developmental biology that also holds great potential for non-invasive time-lapse monitoring of oocyte and embryo quality in assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seweryn Morawiec
- Institute of Physics, Faculty of Physics, Astronomy and Informatics, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Torun, Poland.
| | - Anna Ajduk
- Department of Embryology, Institute of Developmental Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Patrycjusz Stremplewski
- Institute of Physics, Faculty of Physics, Astronomy and Informatics, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Torun, Poland
| | - Brendan F Kennedy
- Institute of Physics, Faculty of Physics, Astronomy and Informatics, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Torun, Poland
- BRITElab, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, QEII Medical Centre, Nedlands, and Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
- Department of Electrical, Electronic & Computer Engineering, School of Engineering, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Maciej Szkulmowski
- Institute of Physics, Faculty of Physics, Astronomy and Informatics, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Torun, Poland
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2
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Qiu P, Zhang Y, Lv M, Wang L, Shi D, Luo C. Establishing a 3D-cultured system based on alginate-hydrogel embedding benefits the in vitro maturation of porcine Oocytes. Theriogenology 2024; 225:33-42. [PMID: 38788627 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
The in vitro maturation (IVM) quality of oocytes is directly related to the subsequent developmental potential of embryos and a fundamental of in vitro embryo production. However, conventional IVM methods fail to maintain the gap-junction intercellular communication (GJIC) between cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs), which leads to insufficient oocyte maturation. Herein, we investigated the effects of three different three-dimensional (3D) culture methods on oocyte development in vitro, optimized of the alginate-hydrogel embedding method, and assessed the effects of the alginate-hydrogel embedding method on subsequent embryonic developmental potential of oocytes after IVM and parthenogenetic activation (PA). The results showed that Matrigel embedding and alginate-hydrogel embedding benefited the embryonic developmental potential of oocytes after IVM and PA. With the further optimization of alginate-hydrogel embedding, including crosslinking and decrosslinking of parameters, we established a 3D culture system that can significantly increase oocyte maturation and the blastocyst rate of embryos after PA (27.2 ± 1.5 vs 36.7 ± 2.8, P < 0.05). This 3D culture system produced oocytes with markedly increased mitochondrial intensity and membrane potential, which reduced the abnormalities of spindle formation and cortical granule distribution. The alginate-hydrogel embedding system can also remarkably enhance the GJIC between COCs. In summary, based on alginate-hydrogel embedding, we established a 3D culture system that can improve the IVM quality of porcine oocytes, possibly by enhancing GJIC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Qiu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding & Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, 75 Xiuling Road, Nanning, 530005, China
| | - Yunchuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding & Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, 75 Xiuling Road, Nanning, 530005, China
| | - Meiyun Lv
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding & Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, 75 Xiuling Road, Nanning, 530005, China
| | - Lei Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding & Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, 75 Xiuling Road, Nanning, 530005, China
| | - Deshun Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding & Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, 75 Xiuling Road, Nanning, 530005, China.
| | - Chan Luo
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding & Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, 75 Xiuling Road, Nanning, 530005, China.
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3
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Coraggio F, Bhushan M, Roumeliotis S, Caroti F, Bevilacqua C, Prevedel R, Rapti G. Age-progressive interplay of HSP-proteostasis, ECM-cell junctions and biomechanics ensures C. elegans astroglial architecture. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2861. [PMID: 38570505 PMCID: PMC10991496 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46827-2] [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: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Tissue integrity is sensitive to temperature, tension, age, and is sustained throughout life by adaptive cell-autonomous or extrinsic mechanisms. Safeguarding the remarkably-complex architectures of neurons and glia ensures age-dependent integrity of functional circuits. Here, we report mechanisms sustaining the integrity of C. elegans CEPsh astrocyte-like glia. We combine large-scale genetics with manipulation of genes, cells, and their environment, quantitative imaging of cellular/ subcellular features, tissue material properties and extracellular matrix (ECM). We identify mutants with age-progressive, environment-dependent defects in glial architecture, consequent disruption of neuronal architecture, and abnormal aging. Functional loss of epithelial Hsp70/Hsc70-cochaperone BAG2 causes ECM disruption, altered tissue biomechanics, and hypersensitivity of glia to environmental temperature and mechanics. Glial-cell junctions ensure epithelia-ECM-CEPsh glia association. Modifying glial junctions or ECM mechanics safeguards glial integrity against disrupted BAG2-proteostasis. Overall, we present a finely-regulated interplay of proteostasis-ECM and cell junctions with conserved components that ensures age-progressive robustness of glial architecture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Coraggio
- Developmental Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mahak Bhushan
- Developmental Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Spyridon Roumeliotis
- Developmental Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Francesca Caroti
- Developmental Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Carlo Bevilacqua
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Robert Prevedel
- Developmental Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
- Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Rome, Italy
- Interdisciplinary Center of Neurosciences, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Georgia Rapti
- Developmental Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Rome, Italy.
- Interdisciplinary Center of Neurosciences, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
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4
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Kabakova I, Zhang J, Xiang Y, Caponi S, Bilenca A, Guck J, Scarcelli G. Brillouin microscopy. NATURE REVIEWS. METHODS PRIMERS 2024; 4:8. [PMID: 39391288 PMCID: PMC11465583 DOI: 10.1038/s43586-023-00286-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2024]
Abstract
The field of Brillouin microscopy and imaging was established approximately 20 years ago, thanks to the development of non-scanning high-resolution optical spectrometers. Since then, the field has experienced rapid expansion, incorporating technologies from telecommunications, astrophotonics, multiplexed microscopy, quantum optics and machine learning. Consequently, these advancements have led to much-needed improvements in imaging speed, spectral resolution and sensitivity. The progress in Brillouin microscopy is driven by a strong demand for label-free and contact-free methods to characterize the mechanical properties of biomaterials at the cellular and subcellular scales. Understanding the local biomechanics of cells and tissues has become crucial in predicting cellular fate and tissue pathogenesis. This Primer aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the methods and applications of Brillouin microscopy. It includes key demonstrations of Brillouin microscopy and imaging that can serve as a reference for the existing research community and new adopters of this technology. The article concludes with an outlook, presenting the authors' vision for future developments in this vibrant field. The Primer also highlights specific examples where Brillouin microscopy can have a transformative impact on biology and biomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Kabakova
- School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jitao Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Yuchen Xiang
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion & Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Silvia Caponi
- Istituto Officina dei Materiali–National Research Council (IOM-CNR)–Research Unit in Perugia, c/o Department of Physics and Geology, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Alberto Bilenca
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be’er-Sheva, Israel
| | - Jochen Guck
- Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, Erlangen, Germany
- Max-Planck-Zentrum für Physik und Medizin, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Giuliano Scarcelli
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
- Maryland Biophysics Program, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
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5
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Martinez-Vidal L, Testi C, Pontecorvo E, Pederzoli F, Alchera E, Locatelli I, Venegoni C, Spinelli A, Lucianò R, Salonia A, Podestà A, Ruocco G, Alfano M. Progressive alteration of murine bladder elasticity in actinic cystitis detected by Brillouin microscopy. Sci Rep 2024; 14:484. [PMID: 38177637 PMCID: PMC10766652 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-51006-2] [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: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Bladder mechanical properties are critical for organ function and tissue homeostasis. Therefore, alterations of tissue mechanics are linked to disease onset and progression. This study aims to characterize the tissue elasticity of the murine bladder wall considering its different anatomical components, both in healthy conditions and in actinic cystitis, a state characterized by tissue fibrosis. Here, we exploit Brillouin microscopy, an emerging technique in the mechanobiology field that allows mapping tissue mechanics at the microscale, in non-contact mode and free of labeling. We show that Brillouin imaging of bladder tissues is able to recognize the different anatomical components of the bladder wall, confirmed by histopathological analysis, showing different tissue mechanical properties of the physiological bladder, as well as a significant alteration in the presence of tissue fibrosis. Our results point out the potential use of Brillouin imaging on clinically relevant samples as a complementary technique to histopathological analysis, deciphering complex mechanical alteration of each tissue layer of an organ that strongly relies on mechanical properties to perform its function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Martinez-Vidal
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132, Milan, Italy.
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Via Olgettina, 60, 20132, Milan, Italy.
| | - Claudia Testi
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Roma, Italy.
| | - Emanuele Pontecorvo
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Roma, Italy
- CrestOptics S.p.A., Via Di Torre Rossa, 66, 00165, Roma, Italy
| | - Filippo Pederzoli
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132, Milan, Italy
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Via Olgettina, 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Alchera
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Irene Locatelli
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Venegoni
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonello Spinelli
- Experimental Imaging Centre, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberta Lucianò
- Pathology Unit, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Salonia
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132, Milan, Italy
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Via Olgettina, 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Podestà
- Dipartimento Di Fisica "Aldo Pontremoli" and CIMAINA, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Ruocco
- Center for Life Nano- and Neuro-Science, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161, Roma, Italy
- Dipartimento Di Fisica, Universitá Di Roma "La Sapienza", Piazzale Aldo Moro, 5, 00185, Roma, Italy
| | - Massimo Alfano
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, 20132, Milan, Italy
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6
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Yang F, Bevilacqua C, Hambura S, Neves A, Gopalan A, Watanabe K, Govendir M, Bernabeu M, Ellenberg J, Diz-Muñoz A, Köhler S, Rapti G, Jechlinger M, Prevedel R. Pulsed stimulated Brillouin microscopy enables high-sensitivity mechanical imaging of live and fragile biological specimens. Nat Methods 2023; 20:1971-1979. [PMID: 37884795 PMCID: PMC10703689 DOI: 10.1038/s41592-023-02054-z] [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: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Brillouin microscopy is an emerging optical elastography technique capable of assessing mechanical properties of biological samples in a three-dimensional, all-optical and noncontact fashion. The typically weak Brillouin scattering signal can be substantially enhanced via a stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) process; however, current implementations require high pump powers, which prohibit applications to photosensitive or live imaging of biological samples. Here we present a pulsed SBS scheme that takes advantage of the nonlinearity of the pump-probe interaction. In particular, we show that the required pump laser power can be decreased ~20-fold without affecting the signal levels or spectral precision. We demonstrate the low phototoxicity and high specificity of our pulsed SBS approach by imaging, with subcellular detail, sensitive single cells, zebrafish larvae, mouse embryos and adult Caenorhabditis elegans. Furthermore, our method permits observing the mechanics of organoids and C. elegans embryos over time, opening up further possibilities for the field of mechanobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Yang
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Shanghai Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Carlo Bevilacqua
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
- Collaboration for joint PhD degree between EMBL and Heidelberg University, Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Hambura
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ana Neves
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
- Collaboration for joint PhD degree between EMBL and Heidelberg University, Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anusha Gopalan
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
- Collaboration for joint PhD degree between EMBL and Heidelberg University, Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Koki Watanabe
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matt Govendir
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Bernabeu
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jan Ellenberg
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alba Diz-Muñoz
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Simone Köhler
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Georgia Rapti
- Developmental Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
- Interdisciplinary Center of Neurosciences, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Rome, Italy
| | - Martin Jechlinger
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
- MOLIT Institute for Personalized Medicine gGmbH, Heilbronn, Germany
| | - Robert Prevedel
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Developmental Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Interdisciplinary Center of Neurosciences, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Rome, Italy.
- Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany.
- German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany.
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7
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Stewart S, Ou W, Aranda-Espinoza H, Rahaman SO, He X. Micromechanical characterizations and viscoelastic modeling reveal elastic and viscoelastic heterogeneities in ovarian tissue and the significant viscoelastic contribution to the apparent elastic modulus determined by AFM indentation. Acta Biomater 2023; 168:286-297. [PMID: 37451661 PMCID: PMC10529990 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.07.010] [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: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian follicles develop in a highly regulated mechanical microenvironment and disruptions to the microenvironment may cause infertility. However, the viscoelastic properties of the ovarian tissue are not well studied. Here, we characterize both the elastic and viscoelastic properties of ovarian tissue from both reproductively older and younger domestic cats using atomic force microscopy (AFM) indentation and viscoelastic models of stress relaxation. Importantly, our analyses reveal the apparent elastic modulus obtained from the conventional AFM indentation measurement is significantly higher than the intrinsic elastic modulus and insignificantly different from the equivalent elastic modulus that is the summation of the intrinsic elastic modulus and the viscoelastic contribution to modulus at time 0. Interestingly, the ovarian cortex of both reproductive age groups has a higher apparent/intrinsic modulus than that of the medulla. Furthermore, two different kinetics of stress relaxation are identified with rate constants of ∼1 s and ∼20-40 s, respectively. Moreover, the rate constant of the slow kinetics is significantly different between the cortex and medulla in the reproductively older ovaries. Finally, these mechanical heterogeneities appear to follow the heterogeneous distribution of hyaluronic acid (HA) in the ovary. These findings may be invaluable to the development of biomimetic follicle culture for treating infertility. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: This study investigates not only elastic but also the viscoelastic heterogeneity in both reproductively younger and older ovarian tissues for the first time. Further, by combining AFM indentation measurement and viscoelastic modeling, we show the apparent elastic modulus conventionally reported in the literature for AFM indentation measurement is the summation of the intrinsic elastic modulus and a significant viscoelastic contribution to the modulus at time 0. This is an important consideration for others who use this method to quantify biomaterial properties. In addition, the possible connection between the mechanical and compositional heterogeneities is explored. These findings may be invaluable for designing biomaterials to recapitulate the mechanical environment of the ovary and possibly many other organs for biomimetic tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Stewart
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States
| | - Wenquan Ou
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States
| | - Helim Aranda-Espinoza
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States
| | - Shaik O Rahaman
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States
| | - Xiaoming He
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States.
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8
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Sheikh S, Lo BKM, Kaune H, Bansal J, Deleva A, Williams SA. Rescue of follicle development after oocyte-induced ovary dysfunction and infertility in a model of POI. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1202411. [PMID: 37614224 PMCID: PMC10443433 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1202411] [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: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms and aetiology underlying the development of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) are poorly understood. However, the oocyte clearly has a role as demonstrated by the Double Mutant (DM) mouse model where ovarian dysfunction (6 weeks) is followed by POI (3 months) due to oocyte-specific deletion of complex and hybrid N- and O-glycans. The ovaries of DM mice contain more primary follicles (3a stage) accompanied by fewer developing follicles, indicating a block in follicle development. To investigate this block, we first analysed early follicle development in postnatal (8-day), pre-pubertal (3-week) and post-pubertal (6-week and 3-month) DM (C1galt1 F/F Mgat1 F/F:ZP3Cre) and Control (C1galt1 F/F Mgat1 F/F) mice. Second, we investigated if transplantation of DM ovaries into a "normal" endocrine environment would restore follicle development. Third, we determined if replacing DM ovarian somatic cells would rescue development of DM oocytes. At 3-week, DM primary 3a follicles contain large oocytes accompanied by early development of a second GC layer and increased GC proliferation. At 6-week, DM primary 3a follicles contain abnormally large oocytes, accompanied with decreased GC proliferation. Transplantation of DM ovaries into a 'normal' endocrine environment did not restore normal follicle development. However, replacing somatic cells by generating reaggregated ovaries (ROs) did enable follicle development to progress and thus highlighted intra-ovarian factors were responsible for the onset of POI in DM females. Thus, these studies demonstrate oocyte-initiated altered communication between GCs and oocytes results in abnormal primary follicles which fail to progress and leads to POI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Suzannah A. Williams
- Nuffield Department of Women’s and Reproductive Health, Women’s Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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9
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Ghosh B, Agarwal K. Viewing life without labels under optical microscopes. Commun Biol 2023; 6:559. [PMID: 37231084 PMCID: PMC10212946 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04934-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Optical microscopes today have pushed the limits of speed, quality, and observable space in biological specimens revolutionizing how we view life today. Further, specific labeling of samples for imaging has provided insight into how life functions. This enabled label-based microscopy to percolate and integrate into mainstream life science research. However, the use of labelfree microscopy has been mostly limited, resulting in testing for bio-application but not bio-integration. To enable bio-integration, such microscopes need to be evaluated for their timeliness to answer biological questions uniquely and establish a long-term growth prospect. The article presents key label-free optical microscopes and discusses their integrative potential in life science research for the unperturbed analysis of biological samples.
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10
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Bevilacqua C, Gomez JM, Fiuza UM, Chan CJ, Wang L, Hambura S, Eguren M, Ellenberg J, Diz-Muñoz A, Leptin M, Prevedel R. High-resolution line-scan Brillouin microscopy for live imaging of mechanical properties during embryo development. Nat Methods 2023; 20:755-760. [PMID: 36997817 PMCID: PMC10172129 DOI: 10.1038/s41592-023-01822-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
Brillouin microscopy can assess mechanical properties of biological samples in a three-dimensional (3D), all-optical and hence non-contact fashion, but its weak signals often lead to long imaging times and require an illumination dosage harmful for living organisms. Here, we present a high-resolution line-scanning Brillouin microscope for multiplexed and hence fast 3D imaging of dynamic biological processes with low phototoxicity. The improved background suppression and resolution, in combination with fluorescence light-sheet imaging, enables the visualization of the mechanical properties of cells and tissues over space and time in living organism models such as fruit flies, ascidians and mouse embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Bevilacqua
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
- Collaboration for joint PhD degree between EMBL and Heidelberg University, Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Juan Manuel Gomez
- Director's Research Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ulla-Maj Fiuza
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
- Systems Bioengineering, MELIS, Universidad Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Chii Jou Chan
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ling Wang
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Hambura
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Manuel Eguren
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jan Ellenberg
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Alba Diz-Muñoz
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Maria Leptin
- Director's Research Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Robert Prevedel
- Cell Biology and Biophysics Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Developmental Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Monterotondo, Italy.
- Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit (MMPU), European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany.
- German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Heidelberg, Germany.
- Interdisciplinary Center of Neurosciences, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
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11
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O’Connor SP, Doktor DA, Scully MO, Yakovlev VV. Spectral resolution enhancement for impulsive stimulated Brillouin spectroscopy by expanding pump beam geometry. OPTICS EXPRESS 2023; 31:14604-14616. [PMID: 37157321 PMCID: PMC10316680 DOI: 10.1364/oe.487131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Brillouin microscopy has recently emerged as a powerful tool for mechanical property measurements in biomedical sensing and imaging applications. Impulsive stimulated Brillouin scattering (ISBS) microscopy has been proposed for faster and more accurate measurements, which do not rely on stable narrow-band lasers and thermally-drifting etalon-based spectrometers. However, the spectral resolution of ISBS-based signal has not been significantly explored. In this report, the ISBS spectral profile has been investigated as a function of the pump beam's spatial geometry, and novel methodologies have been developed for accurate spectral assessment. The ISBS linewidth was found to consistently decrease with increasing pump-beam diameter. These findings provide the means for improved spectral resolution measurements and pave the way to broader applications of ISBS microscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean P. O’Connor
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Dominik A. Doktor
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Marlan O. Scully
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
- Department of Physics, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798, USA
| | - Vladislav V. Yakovlev
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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12
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Fraire-Zamora JJ, Sharma K, Ammar OF, Massarotti C, Ali ZE, Telfer EE, Williams S, Ata B, Liperis G. Mind the gap: deciphering the role of anti-Müllerian hormone in follicular development-from animal studies toward clinical application. Hum Reprod 2023:7131353. [PMID: 37075310 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kashish Sharma
- HealthPlus Fertility and Women's Health Centre, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Omar F Ammar
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Claudia Massarotti
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- DINOGMI Department, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Zoya E Ali
- Research & Development Department, Hertility Health Limited, London, UK
| | - Evelyn E Telfer
- University of Edinburgh Institute of Cell Biology, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Suzannah Williams
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Baris Ata
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
- ART Fertility Clinics, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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13
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Passeri AA, Di Michele A, Neri I, Cottone F, Fioretto D, Mattarelli M, Caponi S. Size and environment: The effect of phonon localization on micro-Brillouin imaging. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 147:213341. [PMID: 36827851 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Specifically designed samples have been analyzed to test the ability of Brillouin spectroscopy to provide reliable mechanical characterization of micro and nano-objects. The selected samples are polymeric films, whose transversal sizes from hundreds of nano- to some micro-meters cover the entire range of length-scales relevant in Brillouin scattering process. The experimental data highlight how, the size of the extended collective oscillation (acoustic phonons, in brief) is the lowest spatial resolution reachable in Brillouin mechanical characterization. Conversely, in the limit condition of phonon confinement, the technique provides the mechanical properties of nano-objects whose characteristic size is comparable with the phonon wavelength (⁓300 nm). Investigating acoustically heterogeneous materials, both size of heterogeneity and acoustic mismatch between adjacent regions are shown to be relevant in shaping the Brillouin response. In particular, a transition from a confined to a non-confined condition is obtained modulating the acoustic mismatch between the micro-objects and their local environment. The provided results and the derived analytic models for the data analysis will guide the interpretation of Brillouin spectra acquired in complex nano-structured samples such as cells, tissues or biomimetic materials. Our analysis can therefore generate new insights to tackle fundamental problems in mechanobiology or to characterize new bioengineered materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A Passeri
- Dipartimento di Fisica e Geologia, Università di Perugia, Via A. Pascoli, I-06100 Perugia, Italy
| | - A Di Michele
- Dipartimento di Fisica e Geologia, Università di Perugia, Via A. Pascoli, I-06100 Perugia, Italy
| | - I Neri
- Dipartimento di Fisica e Geologia, Università di Perugia, Via A. Pascoli, I-06100 Perugia, Italy
| | - F Cottone
- Dipartimento di Fisica e Geologia, Università di Perugia, Via A. Pascoli, I-06100 Perugia, Italy
| | - D Fioretto
- Dipartimento di Fisica e Geologia, Università di Perugia, Via A. Pascoli, I-06100 Perugia, Italy; CEMIN, Centre of Excellence on Nanostructured Innovative Materials, University of Perugia, Via Elce di Sotto 8, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - M Mattarelli
- Dipartimento di Fisica e Geologia, Università di Perugia, Via A. Pascoli, I-06100 Perugia, Italy.
| | - S Caponi
- Istituto Officina dei Materiali, National Research Council (IOM-CNR), Unit of Perugia, c/o Department of Physics and Geology, University of Perugia, Via A. Pascoli, I-06123 Perugia, Italy.
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14
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Grosbois J, Bailie EC, Kelsey TW, Anderson RA, Telfer EE. Spatio-temporal remodelling of the composition and architecture of the human ovarian cortical extracellular matrix during in vitro culture. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:444-458. [PMID: 36721914 PMCID: PMC9977129 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How does in vitro culture alter the human ovarian cortical extracellular matrix (ECM) network structure? SUMMARY ANSWER The ECM composition and architecture vary in the different layers of the ovarian cortex and are remodelled during in vitro culture. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The ovarian ECM is the scaffold within which follicles and stromal cells are organized. Its composition and structural properties constantly evolve to accommodate follicle development and expansion. Tissue preparation for culture of primordial follicles within the native ECM involves mechanical loosening; this induces undefined modifications in the ECM network and alters cell-cell contact, leading to spontaneous follicle activation. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Fresh ovarian cortical biopsies were obtained from six women aged 28-38 years (mean ± SD: 32.7 ± 4.1 years) at elective caesarean section. Biopsies were cut into fragments of ∼4 × 1 × 1 mm and cultured for 0, 2, 4, or 6 days (D). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Primordial follicle activation, stromal cell density, and ECM-related protein (collagen, elastin, fibronectin, laminin) positive area in the entire cortex were quantified at each time point using histological and immunohistological analysis. Collagen and elastin content, collagen fibre characteristics, and follicle distribution within the tissue were further quantified within each layer of the human ovarian cortex, namely the outer cortex, the mid-cortex, and the cortex-medulla junction regions. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Primordial follicle activation occurred concomitantly with a loosening of the ovarian cortex during culture, characterized by an early decrease in stromal cell density from 3.6 ± 0.2 × 106 at day 0 (D0) to 2.8 ± 0.1 × 106 cells/mm3 at D2 (P = 0.033) and a dynamic remodelling of the ECM. Notably, collagen content gradually fell from 55.5 ± 1.7% positive area at D0 to 42.3 ± 1.1% at D6 (P = 0.001), while elastin increased from 1.1 ± 0.2% at D0 to 1.9 ± 0.1% at D6 (P = 0.001). Fibronectin and laminin content remained stable. Moreover, collagen and elastin distribution were uneven throughout the cortex and during culture. Analysis at the sub-region level showed that collagen deposition was maximal in the outer cortex and the lowest in the mid-cortex (69.4 ± 1.2% versus 53.8 ± 0.8% positive area, respectively, P < 0.0001), and cortical collagen staining overall decreased from D0 to D2 (65.2 ± 2.4% versus 60.6 ± 1.8%, P = 0.033) then stabilized. Elastin showed the converse distribution, being most concentrated at the cortex-medulla junction (3.7 ± 0.6% versus 0.9 ± 0.2% in the outer cortex, P < 0.0001), and cortical elastin peaked at D6 compared to D0 (3.1 ± 0.5% versus 1.3 ± 0.2%, P < 0.0001). This was corroborated by a specific signature of the collagen fibre type across the cortex, indicating a distinct phenotype of the ovarian cortical ECM depending on region and culture period that might be responsible for the spatio-temporal and developmental pattern of follicular distribution observed within the cortex. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Ovarian cortical biopsies were obtained from women undergoing caesarean sections. As such, the data obtained may not accurately reflect the ECM distribution and structure of non-pregnant women. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Clarifying the composition and architecture signature of the human ovarian cortical ECM provides a foundation for further exploration of ovarian microenvironments. It is also critical for understanding the ECM-follicle interactions regulating follicle quiescence and awakening, leading to improvements in both in vitro activation and in vitro growth techniques. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) Medical Research Council grant MR/R003246/1 and Wellcome Trust Collaborative Award in Science: 215625/Z/19/Z. The authors have no conflicts to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanne Grosbois
- Institute of Cell Biology, Hugh Robson Building, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Emily C Bailie
- Institute of Cell Biology, Hugh Robson Building, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Tom W Kelsey
- School of Computer Science, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Evelyn E Telfer
- Institute of Cell Biology, Hugh Robson Building, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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15
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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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16
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Morgado-Palacin L. Chii Jou Chan: The positives of being under "pressure". J Cell Biol 2023; 222:e202211075. [PMID: 36696088 PMCID: PMC9930149 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202211075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Chii Jou Chan investigates how tissue hydraulics regulates mammalian development, with a special focus on folliculogenesis and oocyte quality control.
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17
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Fiorentino G, Cimadomo D, Innocenti F, Soscia D, Vaiarelli A, Ubaldi FM, Gennarelli G, Garagna S, Rienzi L, Zuccotti M. Biomechanical forces and signals operating in the ovary during folliculogenesis and their dysregulation: implications for fertility. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:1-23. [PMID: 35856663 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Folliculogenesis occurs in the highly dynamic environment of the ovary. Follicle cyclic recruitment, neo-angiogenesis, spatial displacement, follicle atresia and ovulation stand out as major events resulting from the interplay between mechanical forces and molecular signals. Morphological and functional changes to the growing follicle and to the surrounding tissue are required to produce oocytes capable of supporting preimplantation development to the blastocyst stage. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review will summarize the ovarian morphological and functional context that contributes to follicle recruitment, growth and ovulation, as well as to the acquisition of oocyte developmental competence. We will describe the changes occurring during folliculogenesis to the ovarian extracellular matrix (ECM) and to the vasculature, their influence on the mechanical properties of the ovarian tissue, and, in turn, their influence on the regulation of signal transduction. Also, we will outline how their dysregulation might be associated with pathologies such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis or premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). Finally, for each of these three pathologies, we will highlight therapeutic strategies attempting to correct the altered biomechanical context in order to restore fertility. SEARCH METHODS For each area discussed, a systematic bibliographical search was performed, without temporal limits, using PubMed Central, Web of Science and Scopus search engines employing the keywords extracellular matrix, mechanobiology, biomechanics, vasculature, angiogenesis or signalling pathway in combination with: ovary, oogenesis, oocyte, folliculogenesis, ovarian follicle, theca, granulosa, cumulus, follicular fluid, corpus luteum, meiosis, oocyte developmental competence, preimplantation, polycystic ovary syndrome, premature ovarian insufficiency or endometriosis. OUTCOMES Through search engines queries, we yielded a total of 37 368 papers that were further selected based on our focus on mammals and, specifically, on rodents, bovine, equine, ovine, primates and human, and also were trimmed around each specific topic of the review. After the elimination of duplicates, this selection process resulted in 628 papers, of which 287 were cited in the manuscript. Among these, 89.2% were published in the past 22 years, while the remaining 8.0%, 2.4% or 0.3% were published during the 1990s, 1980s or before, respectively. During folliculogenesis, changes occur to the ovarian ECM composition and organization that, together with vasculature modelling around the growing follicle, are aimed to sustain its recruitment and growth, and the maturation of the enclosed oocyte. These events define the scenario in which mechanical forces are key to the regulation of cascades of molecular signals. Alterations to this context determine impaired folliculogenesis and decreased oocyte developmental potential, as observed in pathological conditions which are causes of infertility, such as PCOS, endometriosis or POI. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The knowledge of these mechanisms and the rules that govern them lay a sound basis to explain how follicles recruitment and growth are modulated, and stimulate insights to develop, in clinical practice, strategies to improve follicular recruitment and oocyte competence, particularly for pathologies like PCOS, endometriosis and POI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Fiorentino
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Center for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | | | | | - Daria Soscia
- Clinica Valle Giulia, GeneraLife IVF, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Gianluca Gennarelli
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, Sant'Anna Hospital, University of Torino, Turin, Italy.,Livet, GeneraLife IVF, Turin, Italy
| | - Silvia Garagna
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Center for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Laura Rienzi
- Clinica Valle Giulia, GeneraLife IVF, Rome, Italy.,Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino "Carlo Bo", Urbino, Italy
| | - Maurizio Zuccotti
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Lazzaro Spallanzani", University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Center for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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18
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Biswas A, Ng BH, Prabhakaran VS, Chan CJ. Squeezing the eggs to grow: The mechanobiology of mammalian folliculogenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1038107. [PMID: 36531957 PMCID: PMC9756970 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1038107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The formation of functional eggs (oocyte) in ovarian follicles is arguably one of the most important events in early mammalian development since the oocytes provide the bulk genetic and cytoplasmic materials for successful reproduction. While past studies have identified many genes that are critical to normal ovarian development and function, recent studies have highlighted the role of mechanical force in shaping folliculogenesis. In this review, we discuss the underlying mechanobiological principles and the force-generating cellular structures and extracellular matrix that control the various stages of follicle development. We also highlight emerging techniques that allow for the quantification of mechanical interactions and follicular dynamics during development, and propose new directions for future studies in the field. We hope this review will provide a timely and useful framework for future understanding of mechano-signalling pathways in reproductive biology and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arikta Biswas
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Boon Heng Ng
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Chii Jou Chan
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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19
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Comprehensive single-shot biophysical cytometry using simultaneous quantitative phase imaging and Brillouin spectroscopy. Sci Rep 2022; 12:18285. [PMID: 36316372 PMCID: PMC9622723 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-23049-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Single-cell analysis, or cytometry, is a ubiquitous tool in the biomedical sciences. Whereas most cytometers use fluorescent probes to ascertain the presence or absence of targeted molecules, biophysical parameters such as the cell density, refractive index, and viscosity are difficult to obtain. In this work, we combine two complementary techniques-quantitative phase imaging and Brillouin spectroscopy-into a label-free image cytometry platform capable of measuring more than a dozen biophysical properties of individual cells simultaneously. Using a geometric simplification linked to freshly plated cells, we can acquire the cellular diameter, volume, refractive index, mass density, non-aqueous mass, fluid volume, dry volume, the fractional water content of cells, both by mass and by volume, the Brillouin shift, Brillouin linewidth, longitudinal modulus, longitudinal viscosity, the loss modulus, and the loss tangent, all from a single acquisition, and with no assumptions of underlying parameters. Our methods are validated across three cell populations, including a control population of CHO-K1 cells, cells exposed to tubulin-disrupting nocodazole, and cells under hypoosmotic shock. Our system will unlock new avenues of research in biophysics, cell biology, and medicine.
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