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Perry GA, Ketchum JN, Quail LK. Importance of preovulatory estradiol on uterine receptivity and luteal function. Anim Reprod 2023; 20:e20230061. [PMID: 37720725 PMCID: PMC10503890 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2023-0061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Animals that exhibited estrus had greater pregnancy success compared to animals that did not exhibit estrus before fixed-time AI (FTAI). Estradiol is synthesized in bovine ovarian follicles under gonadotropin regulation and can directly and indirectly regulate the uterine receptivity and luteal function. Estradiol concentrations at FTAI impacted oviductal gene expression and has been reported to play an important role in establishing the timing of uterine receptivity. These changes have been reported to impact uterine pH and sperm transport to the site of fertilization. After fertilization, preovulatory estradiol has been reported to improve embryo survival likely by mediating changes in uterine blood flow, endometrial thickness and changes in histotroph. Cows with greater estradiol concentrations at the time of GnRH-induced ovulation also had a larger dominant follicle size and greater circulating progesterone concentrations on day 7. Therefore, it is impossible to accurately determine the individual benefit of greater estradiol concentrations prior to ovulation and greater progesterone concentrations following ovulation to pregnancy establishment, as these two measurements are confounded. Research has indicated an importance in the occurrence and timing of increasing preovulatory concentrations of estradiol, but increasing estradiol concentrations by supplementation may not be sufficient to increase fertility. Increased production of estradiol by the preovulatory follicle may be required to enhance fertility through the regulation of sperm transport, fertilization, oviductal secretions, the uterine environment, and embryo survival.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jaclyn Nicole Ketchum
- Texas A&M AgriLife Research, Overton, Texas, United States of America
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Lacey Kay Quail
- Texas A&M AgriLife Research, Overton, Texas, United States of America
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
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2
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Mahé C, Lavigne R, Com E, Pineau C, Zlotkowska AM, Tsikis G, Mermillod P, Schoen J, Saint-Dizier M. The sperm-interacting proteome in the bovine isthmus and ampulla during the periovulatory period. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2023; 14:30. [PMID: 36797800 PMCID: PMC9936689 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-022-00811-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatozoa interact with oviduct secretions before fertilization in vivo but the molecular players of this dialog and underlying dynamics remain largely unknown. Our objectives were to identify an exhaustive list of sperm-interacting proteins (SIPs) in the bovine oviduct fluid and to evaluate the impact of the oviduct anatomical region (isthmus vs. ampulla) and time relative to ovulation (pre-ovulatory vs. post-ovulatory) on SIPs number and abundance. METHODS Pools of oviduct fluid (OF) from the pre-ovulatory ampulla, pre-ovulatory isthmus, post-ovulatory ampulla, and post-ovulatory isthmus in the side of ovulation were collected from the slaughterhouse. Frozen-thawed bull sperm were incubated with OF or phosphate-buffered saline (control) for 60 min at 38.5 °C. After protein extraction and digestion, sperm and OF samples were analyzed by nanoLC-MS/MS and label-free protein quantification. RESULTS A quantitative comparison between proteins identified in sperm and OF samples (2333 and 2471 proteins, respectively) allowed for the identification of 245 SIPs. The highest number (187) were found in the pre-ovulatory isthmus, i.e., time and place of the sperm reservoir. In total, 41 SIPs (17%) were differentially abundant between stages in a given region or between regions at a given stage and 76 SIPs (31%) were identified in only one region × stage condition. Functional analysis of SIPs predicted roles in cell response to stress, regulation of cell motility, fertilization, and early embryo development. CONCLUSION This study provides a comprehensive list of SIPs in the bovine oviduct and evidences dynamic spatio-temporal changes in sperm-oviduct interactions around ovulation time. Moreover, these data provide protein candidates to improve sperm conservation and in vitro fertilization media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coline Mahé
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380, Nouzilly, France.
| | - Régis Lavigne
- grid.410368.80000 0001 2191 9284Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement Et Travail) - UMR-S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France ,grid.410368.80000 0001 2191 9284Univ Rennes, CNRS, Inserm, Biosit UAR 3480 US_S 018, Protim Core Facility, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Emmanuelle Com
- grid.410368.80000 0001 2191 9284Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement Et Travail) - UMR-S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France ,grid.410368.80000 0001 2191 9284Univ Rennes, CNRS, Inserm, Biosit UAR 3480 US_S 018, Protim Core Facility, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Charles Pineau
- grid.410368.80000 0001 2191 9284Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement Et Travail) - UMR-S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France ,grid.410368.80000 0001 2191 9284Univ Rennes, CNRS, Inserm, Biosit UAR 3480 US_S 018, Protim Core Facility, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Aleksandra Maria Zlotkowska
- grid.418188.c0000 0000 9049 5051Institute of Reproductive Biology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology, FBN, Dummerstorf, Germany ,grid.418779.40000 0001 0708 0355Present Address: Department of Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), Berlin, Germany
| | - Guillaume Tsikis
- grid.464126.30000 0004 0385 4036CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- grid.464126.30000 0004 0385 4036CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Jennifer Schoen
- grid.418188.c0000 0000 9049 5051Institute of Reproductive Biology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology, FBN, Dummerstorf, Germany ,grid.418779.40000 0001 0708 0355Present Address: Department of Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), Berlin, Germany
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- grid.464126.30000 0004 0385 4036CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France
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3
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ITO S, YAMAGUCHI Y, KUBOTA S, YAMAMOTO Y, KIMURA K. Immunohistochemical identification of epithelial cell types in the isthmus of bovine oviduct: Comparison with the ampulla. J Reprod Dev 2023; 69:18-24. [PMID: 36450524 PMCID: PMC9939284 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2022-104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The oviductal epithelium consists of ciliated and non-ciliated cells, and their numbers vary depending on the segment of the oviduct and stage of the estrous cycle. Compared with the ampulla, fewer cyclic changes in the number of the two types of cells occur in the isthmus. Recently, we have reported that the epithelium in the ampullary oviduct is composed of many types of cells during different translational/transcriptional states, and their numbers change during the estrous cycle. However, detailed information regarding the epithelial cell subtypes lining the isthmic oviductal epithelium has not yet been reported. In this study, we aimed to identify the epithelial subtypes in the isthmus of the oviduct using immunohistochemistry. Some similarities and differences were observed between the ampulla and isthmus. As observed in the ampulla, epithelial cells of the isthmus expressed either FOXJ1 (ciliogenesis marker) or PAX8 (non-ciliated cell marker). The estrous cycle affected the number of Ki67+ cells but not that of ciliated cells. A relatively high rate of Ki67+ cells (60%) was observed at 1-4 days after the ovulation. Interestingly, unlike the ampulla, Ki67+/FOXJ1+ cells (12.6 ± 1.1%) were discovered in the isthmus. Double staining for Ki67 with FOXJ1, PAX8, or Centrin-1 (a centriole marker) revealed that Centrin-1 was localized on the apical surface of some Ki67+/FOXJ1+ cells. In conclusion, some epithelial cell subtypes exist in the isthmus of the oviduct and isthmus-specific cell subtypes have been identified. These region-specific cells may provide functional and morphological differences between the ampulla and isthmus of the oviduct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayaka ITO
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan,Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuna YAMAGUCHI
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Faculty of Agriculture, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan
| | - Sayaka KUBOTA
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan
| | - Yuki YAMAMOTO
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan,Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Koji KIMURA
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, Okayama University, Okayama 700-8530, Japan
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4
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López-Gatius F. Revisiting the Timing of Insemination at Spontaneous Estrus in Dairy Cattle. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12243565. [PMID: 36552485 PMCID: PMC9774572 DOI: 10.3390/ani12243565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cows show spontaneous estrus over 8-20 h but become refractory to the bull about 10-12 h before ovulation. This indicates that ovulation occurs 10-12 h after the end of estrus behavior, yet spermatozoa from the bull ejaculate need to undergo maturation and capacitation for 6 to 8 h in the female reproductive tract before they are capable of fertilization. Traditionally, the onset of estrus has been considered the best timing for artificial insemination (AI) in cattle, that is, 6 to 24 h from the first signs of estrus. However, recent findings suggest this interval should be reduced to 16 to 6 h before ovulation, bringing it closer to the end of estrus. In this review, the end of estrus rather than its onset is proposed as the best guide for AI timing in dairy cattle, and physiological indicators of late estrus are discussed such as relaxation of the intravaginal part of the uterus, a lower cervical mucus viscosity and a softer pre-ovulatory follicular consistency as simple cues indicating a cow is ready for service.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando López-Gatius
- Agrotecnio Centre, 25198 Lleida, Spain;
- Subunit, Transfer in Bovine Reproduction SLu, 22300 Barbastro, Spain
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5
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Fernández-López P, Garriga J, Casas I, Yeste M, Bartumeus F. Predicting fertility from sperm motility landscapes. Commun Biol 2022; 5:1027. [PMID: 36171267 PMCID: PMC9519750 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03954-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the organisational principles of sperm motility has both evolutionary and applied impact. The emergence of computer aided systems in this field came with the promise of automated quantification and classification, potentially improving our understanding of the determinants of reproductive success. Yet, nowadays the relationship between sperm variability and fertility remains unclear. Here, we characterize pig sperm motility using t-SNE, an embedding method adequate to study behavioural variability. T-SNE reveals a hierarchical organization of sperm motility across ejaculates and individuals, enabling accurate fertility predictions by means of Bayesian logistic regression. Our results show that sperm motility features, like high-speed and straight-lined motion, correlate positively with fertility and are more relevant than other sources of variability. We propose the combined use of embedding methods with Bayesian inference frameworks in order to achieve a better understanding of the relationship between fertility and sperm motility in animals, including humans. Dimension reduction methods on porcine sperm motility landscapes reveal heterogeneity and hierarchy in sperm movement behavior and show high-speed and straight-lined motion as predictive features of fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pol Fernández-López
- Theoretical and Computational Ecology Group, Centre d'Estudis Avançats de Blanes (CEAB-CSIC), Cala Sant Francesc, 14, 17300, Blanes, Spain
| | - Joan Garriga
- Theoretical and Computational Ecology Group, Centre d'Estudis Avançats de Blanes (CEAB-CSIC), Cala Sant Francesc, 14, 17300, Blanes, Spain
| | - Isabel Casas
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, 17003, Girona, Spain.,Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, 17003, Girona, Spain
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, 17003, Girona, Spain.,Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, 17003, Girona, Spain.,Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats, ICREA, Passeig Lluís Companys, 23, 08010, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Frederic Bartumeus
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats, ICREA, Passeig Lluís Companys, 23, 08010, Barcelona, Spain. .,Centre de Recerca Ecològica i Aplicacions Forestals (CREAF), Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Spain.
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6
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Lopera-Vásquez R, Uribe-García F, Rondón-Barragán I. Effect of estrous cycle phases on gene expression in bovine oviduct epithelial cells. Vet World 2022; 15:1665-1675. [PMID: 36185535 PMCID: PMC9394134 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.1665-1675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: The oviduct environment is of particular importance because it is the site of fertilization and early embryo development. The oviduct, as a component of the reproductive system, responds to ovarian hormone (estradiol [E2] and progesterone [P4]) stimuli depending on the estrous cycle phase. This study aimed to elucidate the effect of estrous cycle phases (follicular and early and late luteal phases) on gene expression patterns in bovine oviduct epithelial cells (BOECs).
Materials and Methods: Oviducts were obtained from healthy slaughterhouse animals, corresponding to ipsilateral ovaries with dominant follicles or corpus luteum during early and late luteal phases. BOECs were recovered from the isthmus (IST) and ampulla (AMP), and the expression patterns of genes related to cytokinesis and mitosis mechanisms (rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinase and cellular communication network factor 2 [CCN2]), growth factors (insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 3, epidermal growth factor receptor [EGFR], vascular endothelial growth factor A, and EGFR), antioxidant mechanisms (glutathione peroxidase 4 [GPX4]), apoptosis (B-cell lymphoma 2), complement component (C3), energy metabolism (aldose reductase gene family 1-member b1 [AKRIB1] and solute carrier family 2), hormone receptors (estrogen receptor 1 and luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor), and specific glycoproteins (oviductal glycoprotein 1) were analyzed.
Results: High P4 levels (late luteal phase) affected the expression of important genes related to antioxidant mechanisms (GPX4), energy metabolism (AKRIB1), growth factors (IGBP3 and EGFR), and cell growth regulation (CCN2) in the AMP. Low P4 levels (early luteal phase) affected the expression of AKR1B1, IGBP3, and CCN2. In addition, estrogen likely had an effect on OVPGP expression in the cattle oviduct.
Conclusion: Differential gene expression patterns of BOECs in the AMP during the luteal phase (antioxidant mechanisms, energy metabolism, growth factors, and immunological regulators) and in the IST during the follicular phase (glycoproteins) may influence their renewal and population proportions, modulating the oviduct environment as well as gamete and embryo physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricaurte Lopera-Vásquez
- Impronta Research Group, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics. Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Ibagué-Tolima, Colombia
| | - Fabián Uribe-García
- Research Group in Immunobiology and Pathogenesis, Laboratory of Immunology and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, Universidad del Tolima, Santa Helena Highs, Postal Code 730006299, Ibagué-Tolima, Colombia
| | - Iang Rondón-Barragán
- Research Group in Immunobiology and Pathogenesis, Laboratory of Immunology and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, Universidad del Tolima, Santa Helena Highs, Postal Code 730006299, Ibagué-Tolima, Colombia
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7
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De Rensis F, Saleri R, Garcia-Ispierto I, Scaramuzzi R, López-Gatius F. Effects of Heat Stress on Follicular Physiology in Dairy Cows. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11123406. [PMID: 34944184 PMCID: PMC8697862 DOI: 10.3390/ani11123406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Environmentally induced hyperthermia, also called heat stress (HS), compromises reproductive physiology in mammals. The number of oocytes is fixed after birth and they are stored in the ovary in a quiescent state (at the stage of the first meiotic prophase) in primordial follicles. There is evidence that HS alters the oocyte quality, the dynamics of follicular growth and ovulation. The dairy cow, submitted to the metabolic stress of high milk production, is a good model for studying the effects of HS on ovarian function. The aim of this review is to describe the influence of HS during the stages of follicular development in dairy cattle, from the activation of primordial follicles to ovulation. Some clinical aspects are also considered. Abstract Follicular organization starts during mid-to-late fetal life with the formation of primordial follicles. The bilateral interplay between the oocyte and adjoining somatic cells during follicular growth and ovulation may be sensitive to heat stress (HS). Mechanisms giving rise to pre-ovulatory temperature gradients across reproductive tissues are mostly regulated by the pre-ovulatory follicle, and because the cooling of the gonads and genital tract depends on a counter-current transfer system of heat, HS may be considered a major factor impairing ovulation, fertilization and early embryo development. There is evidence of a long-lasting influence of HS on oogenesis and final follicular maturation. Follicular stages that are susceptible to HS have not been precisely determined. Therefore, the aim of this review was to describe the influence of HS during the staged follicular development in dairy cattle, from the activation of primordial follicles to ovulation. Some clinical prospects are also considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio De Rensis
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Parma, Strada del Taglio 10, 12, 43121 Parma, Italy;
| | - Roberta Saleri
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Parma, Strada del Taglio 10, 12, 43121 Parma, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Irina Garcia-Ispierto
- Department of Animal Science, University of Lleida, 25198 Lleida, Spain;
- Agrotecnio Centre, 25198 Lleida, Spain;
| | - Rex Scaramuzzi
- Royal Veterinary College, London NW1 0TU, UK;
- Institute of Agriculture, University of Western Australia, Perth 6009, Australia
| | - Fernando López-Gatius
- Agrotecnio Centre, 25198 Lleida, Spain;
- Transfer in Bovine Reproduction SLu, 22300 Barbastro, Spain
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8
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Mahé C, Zlotkowska AM, Reynaud K, Tsikis G, Mermillod P, Druart X, Schoen J, Saint-Dizier M. Sperm migration, selection, survival, and fertilizing ability in the mammalian oviduct†. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:317-331. [PMID: 34057175 PMCID: PMC8335357 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro fertilization (IVF) gives rise to embryos in a number of mammalian species and is currently widely used for assisted reproduction in humans and for genetic purposes in cattle. However, the rate of polyspermy is generally higher in vitro than in vivo and IVF remains ineffective in some domestic species like pigs and horses, highlighting the importance of the female reproductive tract for gamete quality and fertilization. In this review, the way the female environment modulates sperm selective migration, survival, and acquisition of fertilizing ability in the oviduct is being considered under six aspects: (1) the utero-tubal junction that selects a sperm sub-population entering the oviduct; (2) the presence of sperm binding sites on luminal epithelial cells in the oviduct, which prolong sperm viability and plays a role in limiting polyspermic fertilization; (3) the contractions of the oviduct, which promote sperm migration toward the site of fertilization in the ampulla; (4) the regions of the oviduct, which play different roles in regulating sperm physiology and interactions with oviduct epithelial cells; (5) the time of ovulation, and (6) the steroid hormonal environment which regulates sperm release from the luminal epithelial cells and facilitates capacitation in a finely orchestrated manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coline Mahé
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
| | | | - Karine Reynaud
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
| | | | | | - Xavier Druart
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
| | - Jennifer Schoen
- Institute of Reproductive Biology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology, FBN, Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, Nouzilly, France
- Tours University, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Agrosciences Department, Tours, France
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9
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Diemer J, Hahn J, Goldenbogen B, Müller K, Klipp E. Sperm migration in the genital tract-In silico experiments identify key factors for reproductive success. PLoS Comput Biol 2021; 17:e1009109. [PMID: 34264927 PMCID: PMC8282070 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1009109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm migration in the female genital tract controls sperm selection and, therefore, reproductive success as male gametes are conditioned for fertilization while their number is dramatically reduced. Mechanisms underlying sperm migration are mostly unknown, since in vivo investigations are mostly unfeasible for ethical or practical reasons. By presenting a spatio-temporal model of the mammalian female genital tract combined with agent-based description of sperm motion and interaction as well as parameterizing it with bovine data, we offer an alternative possibility for studying sperm migration in silico. The model incorporates genital tract geometry as well as biophysical principles of sperm motion observed in vitro such as positive rheotaxis and thigmotaxis. This model for sperm migration from vagina to oviducts was successfully tested against in vivo data from literature. We found that physical sperm characteristics such as velocity and directional stability as well as sperm-fluid interactions and wall alignment are critical for success, i.e. sperms reaching the oviducts. Therefore, we propose that these identified sperm parameters should be considered in detail for conditioning sperm in artificial selection procedures since the natural processes are normally bypassed in reproductive in vitro technologies. The tremendous impact of mucus flow to support sperm accumulation in the oviduct highlights the importance of a species-specific optimum time window for artificial insemination regarding ovulation. Predictions from our extendable in silico experimental system will improve assisted reproduction in humans, endangered species, and livestock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorin Diemer
- Theoretical Biophysics, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Germany
| | - Jens Hahn
- Theoretical Biophysics, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Karin Müller
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Edda Klipp
- Theoretical Biophysics, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Germany
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10
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O'Callaghan E, Sánchez JM, McDonald M, Kelly AK, Hamdi M, Maicas C, Fair S, Kenny DA, Lonergan P. Sire contribution to fertilization failure and early embryo survival in cattle. J Dairy Sci 2021; 104:7262-7271. [PMID: 33714587 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-19900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Despite passing routine laboratory tests of semen quality, bulls used in artificial insemination (AI) exhibit a significant range in field fertility. The objective of this study was to determine whether subfertility in AI bulls is due to issues of sperm transport to the site of fertilization, fertilization failure, or failure of early embryo or conceptus development. In experiment 1, Holstein-Friesian bulls (3 high fertility, HF, and 3 low fertility, LF) were selected from the national population of AI bulls based on adjusted fertility scores from a minimum of 500 inseminations (HF: +4.37% and LF: -12.7%; mean = 0%). Superovulated beef heifers were blocked based on estimated number of follicles at the time of AI and inseminated with semen from HF or LF bulls (n = 3-4 heifers per bull; total 19 heifers). Following slaughter 7 d later, the number of corpora lutea was counted and the uteri were flushed. Recovered structures (oocytes/embryos) were classified according to developmental stage and stained with 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole to assess number of cells and accessory sperm. Overall recovery rate (total structures recovered/total corpora lutea) was 52.6% and was not different between groups. Mean (± standard error of the mean) number of embryos recovered per recipient was 8.7 ± 5.2 and 9.4 ± 5.5 for HF and LF, respectively. Overall fertilization rate of recovered structures was not different between groups. However, more embryos were at advanced stages of development (all blastocyst stages combined), reflected in a greater mean embryo cell number on d 7 for HF versus LF bulls. Number of accessory sperm was greater for embryos derived from HF than for LF bulls. The aim of experiment 2 was to evaluate the effect of sire fertility on survival of bovine embryos to d 15. Day 7 blastocysts were produced in vitro using semen from the same HF (n = 3) and LF (n = 3) bulls and transferred in groups of 5-10 to synchronized heifers (n = 7 heifers per bull; total 42 heifers). Conceptus recovery rate on d 15 was higher in HF (59.4%,) versus LF (45.0%). Mean length of recovered conceptuses for HF bulls was not affected by fertility status. In conclusion, while differences in field fertility among AI sires used in this study were not reflected in fertilization rate, differences in embryo quality were apparent as early as d 7. These differences likely contributed to the higher proportion of conceptuses surviving to d 15 in HF bulls.
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Affiliation(s)
- E O'Callaghan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland D04 N2E5
| | - J M Sánchez
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland D04 N2E5
| | - M McDonald
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland D04 N2E5
| | - A K Kelly
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland D04 N2E5
| | - M Hamdi
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland D04 N2E5
| | - C Maicas
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland D04 N2E5
| | - S Fair
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Biological Sciences, Biomaterials Research Cluster, Bernal Institute, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland V94 PT85
| | - D A Kenny
- Animal and Bioscience Research Department, Animal and Grassland Research and Innovation Centre, Teagasc, Meath, Ireland C15 PW93
| | - P Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland D04 N2E5.
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11
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Thermal Mechanisms Preventing or Favoring Multiple Ovulations in Dairy Cattle. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11020435. [PMID: 33567503 PMCID: PMC7915362 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary While cows are usually monovular, the incidence of dizygous twin births has recently increased considerably alongside increasing milk production. Genetic progress and improvements in nutrition and management practices have led to a continuous increase in milk yield and thus also to multiple ovulations and twin pregnancies. Twin pregnancies are undesirable as they seriously compromise the welfare of the cow and herd economy. A better understanding of the processes associated with multiple ovulations should help to reduce rates of twinning. During the stages of the sexual cycle, temperature gradients are established within the ovary and throughout the genital tract. Pre-ovulatory local cooling of the reproductive system favors male and female gamete maturation and subsequent fertilization. In fact, thermal mechanisms may prevent or favor multiple ovulations and thus twinning. The purpose of this review was to update this topic. Abstract While cows are predominantly monovular, over the past 30 years the incidence of multiple ovulations and thus twinning has increased considerably alongside milk production. Multiple pregnancies are not desirable as they negatively affect the health of cows and the herd economy. Although causal mechanisms associated with multiple ovulations have been extensively revised, the process of multiple ovulations is not well understood. Recent studies on the thermal biology of the reproductive system have shown how thermal mechanisms may prevent or favor multiple ovulations. This review focuses on this relationship between thermal dynamics and multiple pregnancies. Cooling of the pre-ovulatory follicle is able to regulate ovulation. In effect, pre-ovulatory local cooling of the female reproductive system favors male and female gamete maturation and promotes fertilization. Thermal stress is proposed here as a model of stress. Periods of high ambient temperature affect the processes of pre-ovulatory follicular cooling and multiple ovulations. While the ratio between unilateral and bilateral multiple pregnancies is normally close to one, under heat stress conditions, this ratio may be 1.4 favoring unilateral multiple pregnancies. A ratio approaching unity is here proposed as an indicator of cow wellbeing.
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12
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Alcântara-Neto AS, Fernandez-Rufete M, Corbin E, Tsikis G, Uzbekov R, Garanina AS, Coy P, Almiñana C, Mermillod P. Oviduct fluid extracellular vesicles regulate polyspermy during porcine in vitro fertilisation. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 32:409-418. [PMID: 31775998 DOI: 10.1071/rd19058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
High polyspermy is one of the major limitations of porcine invitro fertilisation (IVF). The addition of oviductal fluid (OF) during IVF reduces polyspermy without decreasing the fertilisation rate. Because extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been described as important OF components, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of porcine oviductal EVs (poEVs) on IVF efficiency compared with porcine OF (fresh and lyophilised). OF was collected from abattoir oviducts by phosphate-buffered saline flush, and poEVs were isolated by serial ultracentrifugation. Four IVF treatments were conducted: poEVs (0.2mgmL-1), OF (10%), lyophilized and reconstituted pure OF (LOF; 1%) and IVF without supplementation (control). Penetration, monospermy and IVF efficiency were evaluated. Transmission electron microscopy showed an EVs population primarily composed of exosomes (83%; 30-150nm). Supplementation with poEVs during IVF increased monospermy compared with control (44% vs 17%) while maintaining an acceptable penetration rate (61% vs 78% respectively) in a similar way to OF and LOF. Western blotting revealed poEVs proteins involved in early reproductive events, including zona pellucida hardening. In conclusion, our finding show that poEVs are key components of porcine OF and may play roles in porcine fertilisation and polyspermy regulation, suggesting that supplementation with poEVs is a reliable strategy to decrease porcine polyspermy and improve invitro embryo production outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- A S Alcântara-Neto
- Unité Mixte de Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - M Fernandez-Rufete
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Murcia, IMIB-Arixaca, Spain
| | - E Corbin
- Unité Mixte de Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - G Tsikis
- Unité Mixte de Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - R Uzbekov
- Laboratoire Biologie Cellulaire et Microscopie Electronique, Faculté de Médecine, Université François Rabelais, 37000 Tours, France; and Faculty of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Moscow State University, 119992, Leninskye gory 73, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - A S Garanina
- Laboratoire Biologie Cellulaire et Microscopie Electronique, Faculté de Médecine, Université François Rabelais, 37000 Tours, France; and Present address: National University of Science and Technology 'MISiS', 119049, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - P Coy
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Murcia, IMIB-Arixaca, Spain
| | - C Almiñana
- Unité Mixte de Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), 37380 Nouzilly, France; and Present address: University of Zurich, Genetics and Functional Genomics Group, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Farm Animals, VetSuisse Faculty, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - P Mermillod
- Unité Mixte de Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), 37380 Nouzilly, France; and Corresponding author:
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13
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Saint-Dizier M, Mahé C, Reynaud K, Tsikis G, Mermillod P, Druart X. Sperm interactions with the female reproductive tract: A key for successful fertilization in mammals. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 516:110956. [PMID: 32712384 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Sperm migration through the female genital tract is not a quiet journey. Uterine contractions quickly operate a drastic selection, leading to a very restrictive number of sperm reaching the top of uterine horns and finally, provided the presence of key molecules on sperm, the oviduct, where fertilization takes place. During hours and sometimes days before fertilization, subpopulations of spermatozoa interact with dynamic and region-specific maternal components, including soluble proteins, extracellular vesicles and epithelial cells lining the lumen of the female tract. Interactions with uterine and oviductal cells play important roles for sperm survival as they modulate the maternal immune response and allow a transient storage before ovulation. The body of work reported here highlights the importance of sperm interactions with proteins originated from both the uterine and oviductal fluids, as well as hormonal signals around the time of ovulation for sperm acquisition of fertilizing competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Saint-Dizier
- INRAE, UMR PRC, 37380, Nouzilly, France; University of Tours, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, 37000, Tours, France.
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14
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Morillo VA, Akthar I, Fiorenza MF, Takahashi KI, Sasaki M, Marey MA, Suarez SS, Miyamoto A. Toll-like receptor 2 mediates the immune response of the bovine oviductal ampulla to sperm binding. Mol Reprod Dev 2020; 87:1059-1069. [PMID: 32914493 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
We previously reported that sperm binding to cultured bovine oviduct epithelial cells induces an anti-inflammatory immune response. Now we have developed a differentiated explant model to focus on the oviductal ampulla, where fertilization occurs, and to study the effect of sperm capacitation on the immune response. We used heparin to stimulate bovine sperm capacitation. Fluorescence imaging showed that 5,5',6,6'-tetrachloro-1,1',3,3'-tetraethylbenzimidazolyl-carbocyanine iodide-labeled sperm pretreated with (Hep(+) ) or without (Hep( -) ) heparin rapidly attached to the explant ciliated epithelium in similar numbers. However, only Hep(+) sperm upregulated explant messenger RNA (mRNA) transcription of TLR2, IL8, TGFB1, and PGES, without changes in TNFA and IL-10 expression, while Hep( -) sperm only upregulated PGES. The responses were primarily anti-inflammatory, with a greater response produced by Hep(+) sperm, which also produced a substantial increase in TLR2 protein expression in the epithelium. The addition of TLR1/2 (toll-like receptor 1/2) antagonist to the Hep(+) and (Hep( -) ) sperm-explant coincubations reduced sperm attachment to the epithelium and inhibited TLR2 protein expression and some of the Hep(+) sperm-induced mRNA transcription. Our observations suggest that the ampullar epithelium immunologically reacts more strongly to sperm that have undergone heparin stimulation of capacitation. This anti-inflammatory response could serve to protect capacitated sperm as they approach the oocyte in the ampulla.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vernadyn A Morillo
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan.,Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nueva Vizcaya State University, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines
| | - Ihshan Akthar
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
| | - Mariani F Fiorenza
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan.,Laboratory of Biotechnology and Animal Reproduction - BioRep, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | | | - Motoki Sasaki
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
| | - Mohamed A Marey
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan.,Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhur University, Behera, Egypt
| | - Susan S Suarez
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Akio Miyamoto
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
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15
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Hunter RHF, López-Gatius F. Temperature gradients in the mammalian ovary and genital tract: A clinical perspective. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2020; 252:382-386. [PMID: 32682213 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2020.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Temperature within mammalian reproductive tissues is noted to be a key component of fertility, and significant gradients in temperature can be demonstrated deep within the abdomen shortly before ovulation. Indeed, in the absence of such gradients in the ovary and genital tract, the processes of ovulation and fertilisation are severely compromised. This review aims to assess literature produced during the last five decades regarding temperature gradients in the mammalian ovary and genital tract. A large body of observations derived from rabbits, women, pigs and cattle is summarised in tabular form, ovarian follicular values being as much as 2.5 °C or more cooler than neighbouring ovarian tissues or deep rectal temperature. We highlight recent works demonstrating a positive correlation between pre-ovulatory follicular cooling and pregnancy. Understanding the significance of follicular cooling should help us (a) explain why so many potential pregnancies fail in vivo as in vitro and (b) inspire ways for improving the processes of fertilisation and establishment of a full-term pregnancy. Based on our findings in domestic animals, and most recently in cows whose Graafian follicles are comparable in size and timing of response to the LH peak with human follicles, we wish to encourage IVF and fertility preservation clinics to take advantage of this work. By so doing, the incidence of full-term pregnancies in women should be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald H F Hunter
- Sidney Sussex College, University of Cambridge, UK; Ladfield, Oxnam, Jedburgh, UK
| | - Fernando López-Gatius
- Agrotecnio Center Lleida, Spain; Transfer in Bovine Reproduction SLu, Barbastro, Spain.
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16
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Hunter RHF, López-Gatius F. Evolutionary sequences in mammalian reproductive biology. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART 2020; 333:533-535. [PMID: 32592295 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Broad biological aspects and accepted evolutionary sequences may offer useful guidance towards a comprehensive explanation of the function of mammalian ovaries and oviducts and their vital contribution to the events of fertilization. Cooling of the preovulatory follicles before ovulation may well have its roots in the primitive stages of external fertilization in which aggregates of oocytes are shed into freshwater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald H F Hunter
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Sidney Sussex College, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,Ladfield, Oxnam, Jedburgh, UK
| | - Fernando López-Gatius
- Agrotecnio Center, Lleida, Spain.,Transfer in Bovine Reproduction SLu, Barbastro, Spain
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17
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López-Gatius F, Hunter RHF. Local cooling of the ovary and its implications for heat stress effects on reproduction. Theriogenology 2020; 149:98-103. [PMID: 32247952 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The effects of season on the fertility of the dairy cow added to the metabolic stress of milk production are well known. We here present lactating dairy cows as a comparative model of this problem. This review examines the results of recent studies that have highlighted heat stress (HS) effects on pre-ovulatory follicles. From these studies, we draw information regarding the mechanisms giving rise to temperature gradients across reproductive tissues. Our review is completed by a discussion of approaches designed to reduce the negative effects of HS based on cooling strategies implemented before ovulation at or around estrus.
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Affiliation(s)
- F López-Gatius
- Agrotecnio Center, University of Lleida, 25198, Lleida, Spain; Transfer in Bovine Reproduction SLu, 22300, Barbastro, Spain.
| | - R H F Hunter
- Sidney Sussex College, University of Cambridge, England, UK; Ladfield, Oxnam, Jedburgh, TD8 6RJ, Scotland, UK
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18
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Ramal-Sanchez M, Bernabo N, Tsikis G, Blache MC, Labas V, Druart X, Mermillod P, Saint-Dizier M. Progesterone induces sperm release from oviductal epithelial cells by modifying sperm proteomics, lipidomics and membrane fluidity. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 504:110723. [PMID: 31972329 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Revised: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The sperm reservoir is formed after insemination in mammals, allowing sperm storage in the oviduct until their release. We previously showed that physiological concentrations of progesterone (P4) trigger in vitro the sperm release from bovine oviductal epithelial cells (BOECs), selecting a subpopulation of spermatozoa with a higher fertilizing competence. Here, by using Western-Blot, confocal microscopy and Intact Cell MALDI-TOF-Mass Spectrometry strategies, we elucidated the changes derived by the P4-induced release on sperm cells (BOEC-P4 spz). Our findings show that, compared to controls, BOEC-P4 spz presented a decrease in the abundance of Binder of Sperm Proteins (BSP) -3 and -5, suggesting one mechanism by which spermatozoa may detach from BOECs, and thus triggering the membrane remodeling with an increase of the sperm membrane fluidity. Furthermore, an interesting number of membrane lipids and proteins were differentially abundant in BOEC-P4 spz compared with controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Ramal-Sanchez
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PR China) UMR85, INRA, CNRS, 7247, IFCE, Nouzilly, France; Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, Università degli Studi di Teramo, Italy.
| | - Nicola Bernabo
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, Università degli Studi di Teramo, Italy
| | - Guillaume Tsikis
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PR China) UMR85, INRA, CNRS, 7247, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Marie-Claire Blache
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PR China) UMR85, INRA, CNRS, 7247, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Valerie Labas
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PR China) UMR85, INRA, CNRS, 7247, IFCE, Nouzilly, France; Plate-forme de Chirurgie et d'Imagerie pour la Recherche et l'Enseignement (CIRE), Pôle d'Analyse et d'Imagerie des Biomolécules (PAIB), INRA, CHRU de Tours, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Xavier Druart
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PR China) UMR85, INRA, CNRS, 7247, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PR China) UMR85, INRA, CNRS, 7247, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PR China) UMR85, INRA, CNRS, 7247, IFCE, Nouzilly, France; Université de Tours, Faculté des Sciences et des Techniques, Tours, France
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19
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Owhor LE, Reese S, Kölle S. Salpingitis Impairs Bovine Tubal Function and Sperm-Oviduct Interaction. Sci Rep 2019; 9:10893. [PMID: 31350463 PMCID: PMC6659645 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-47431-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Salpingitis is a common cause for subfertility and infertility both in humans and animals. However, the effects of salpingitis on tubal function and reproductive success are largely unknown. Therefore we set out to investigate the effects of inflammation on sperm and oocyte transport and gameto-maternal interaction in the oviduct using the bovine as a model. For this purpose, oviducts revealing mild (n = 45), moderate (n = 55) and severe (n = 45) inflammation were obtained from cows immediately after slaughter and investigated by live cell imaging, histochemistry and scanning electron microscopy. Our studies showed that endometritis was always correlated with salpingitis. Moderate and severe inflammation caused a significant increase in the thickness of tubal folds (p < 0.05). Severe inflammation was characterized by luminal accumulations of mucus and glycoproteins, increased apoptosis, loss of tight junctions and shedding of tubal epithelial cells. The mean ciliary beat frequency (CBF) in the ampulla was significantly reduced as compared to the controls (p < 0.05). The higher the grade of inflammation, the lower was the CBF (p < 0.001). In severe inflammation, spermatozoa were stuck in mucus resulting in decreased sperm motility. Our results imply that tubal inflammation impairs proper tubal function and leads to reduced sperm fertilizing capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loveth E Owhor
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sven Reese
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, LMU, Munich, Germany
| | - Sabine Kölle
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland.
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20
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Dutta S, Aoki K, Doungkamchan K, Tiemeyer M, Bovin N, Miller DJ. Sulfated Lewis A trisaccharide on oviduct membrane glycoproteins binds bovine sperm and lengthens sperm lifespan. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:13445-13463. [PMID: 31337705 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.007695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Revised: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
A fraction of sperm deposited at mating or insemination reaches the oviduct isthmus, where sperm are retained and thereby form a reservoir. This reservoir delays capacitation, prevents polyspermy, selects a fertile population of sperm, and, foremost, increases sperm lifespan. The molecular interactions underlying the formation of a sperm reservoir are becoming clearer in mammals. Sperm lectins bind to oviductal glycans to form the reservoir. Herein, we found that the highest percentage of bovine sperm bound to the 3'-O-sulfated form of Lewis A (suLeA) trisaccharide and sialylated Lewis A and that fluoresceinated versions of each localized to receptors on the anterior head of the sperm. Following capacitation, binding to suLeA decreased significantly, a potential explanation for sperm release from the reservoir. MS and immunohistochemistry analyses indicated that suLeA motifs were present predominantly on O-linked glycans initiated by GalNAc residues, but no sialylated Lewis A was detected. To determine whether sperm binding to isolated suLeA in vitro could mimic in vivo sperm binding to oviduct cells and increase sperm longevity, we immobilized suLeA and incubated it with sperm. Using free-swimming sperm and sperm bound to immobilized laminin as controls, we observed that over 96 h, the viability of free-swimming sperm decreased to 10%, and that of sperm bound to immobilized laminin decreased to about 50%, whereas viability of sperm bound to immobilized suLeA was highest throughout the incubation and 60% at 96 h. These results indicate that bovine sperm binding to oviduct suLeA retains sperm for reservoir formation and extends sperm lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudipta Dutta
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801
| | - Kazuhiro Aoki
- Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602
| | - Kankanit Doungkamchan
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801
| | - Michael Tiemeyer
- Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602
| | - Nicolai Bovin
- Shemyakin Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - David J Miller
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801.
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21
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Yousef MS, Abd-Elhafeez HH, Talukder AK, Miyamoto A. Ovulatory follicular fluid induces sperm phagocytosis by neutrophils, but oviductal fluid around oestrus suppresses its inflammatory effect in the buffalo oviduct in vitro. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:835-846. [PMID: 31081144 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2018] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
We have recently shown that the conditioned media from bovine oviductal epithelial cell culture suppress sperm phagocytosis by neutrophils, suggesting that the oviduct around oestrus supplies the anti-inflammatory microenvironment. To investigate the immune response of neutrophils toward the sperm at ovulation in the buffalo oviduct, we examined (a) a detailed distribution of neutrophils in the oviduct in buffaloes, (b) the effect of ovulatory follicular fluid (FF) and oviductal fluid (OF) on sperm phagocytosis by neutrophils, and (c) the interaction of the ovulatory FF with OF on sperm phagocytosis by neutrophils in vitro. Buffalo oviducts were collected from healthy reproductive tracts at a local slaughterhouse. A detailed observation by histological examination and transmission electron microscopy revealed that neutrophils exist in the oviduct epithelium and lumen throughout the oestrous cycle in buffaloes. The number of neutrophils at the oestrus stage was higher in ampulla compared with those in isthmus, whereas they remained relatively constant at the dioestrus stage. Two hours of preincubation of neutrophils with FF enhanced sperm phagocytosis through the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) together with H2 O2 production, whereas OF around oestrus (eOF) suppressed sperm phagocytosis, NETs formation, and H2 O2 production and relieved the above FF-induced inflammatory response. Our findings show that neutrophils exist in the healthy cyclic oviduct across bovine species, and the OF supplies a strong anti-inflammatory environment that could minimize the inflammatory effect of the FF that flows into the oviduct lumen after ovulation and supports the occurrence of fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed S Yousef
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
| | - Hanan H Abd-Elhafeez
- Department of Anatomy, Embryology and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Anup K Talukder
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Reproductive Health, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur, Bangladesh
| | - Akio Miyamoto
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
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22
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Saraf KK, Singh RK, Kumaresan A, Nayak S, Chhillar S, Lathika S, Datta TK, Mohanty TK. Sperm functional attributes and oviduct explant binding capacity differs between bulls with different fertility ratings in the water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis). Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 31:395-403. [DOI: 10.1071/rd17452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
We report here the differences in sperm functional attributes and sperm–oviduct binding index in bulls with different field fertility ratings. Cryopreserved spermatozoa from Murrah buffalo bulls (n=9) with different fertility ratings were evaluated for membrane integrity, capacitation status, acrosome intactness and protein tyrosine phosphorylation status. Frozen–thawed spermatozoa were incubated with oviduct explants for 1h under 5% CO2, 38.5°C with 95% relative humidity and the number of spermatozoa bound to the unit area of oviduct explants (binding index; BI) was assessed using 5,5′,6,6′-tetrachloro-1,1′,3,3′-tetraethylbenzimidazolyl-carbocyanine iodide (JC-1) fluorescent staining. The proportion of membrane-intact and acrosome-intact spermatozoa was significantly (P<0.05) higher and the proportion of capacitated spermatozoa was significantly (P<0.05) lower in high-fertile bulls compared with medium- and low-fertile bulls. The relationship between BI and bull fertility was significant and positive (r=0.69; P=0.04). BI was negatively and significantly (r=−0.83; P=0.01) related to membrane-compromised spermatozoa. It was concluded that the sperm–oviduct explant binding index was positively related to (1) the proportion of membrane-intact spermatozoa in a given semen sample and (2) invivo fertility of the buffalo bull, indicating the possibility of developing a fertility prediction tool using a sperm–oviduct explant binding model, once validated on a greater number of bulls.
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23
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Fontes PK, Ereno RL, Peixoto AR, Carvalho RF, Scarano WR, Trinca LA, Barros CM, Castilho ACDS. Can the antral follicular count modulate the gene expression of bovine oviducts in Aberdeen Angus and Nelore heifers? PLoS One 2018; 13:e0202017. [PMID: 30157205 PMCID: PMC6114296 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0202017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The number of visible ovarian antral follicles (antral follicle count—AFC) is repeatable in bovine individuals, but highly variable between animals, and with differences between Bos taurus and Bos indicus breeds. Several studies have tried to determine the correlation between AFC and increased fertility in cattle. While the impacts of AFC on embryo production, hormonal levels, and pregnancy rates have been described, the molecular effects of AFC on bovine oviducts have not yet been investigated. Here, the aim was to investigate the impact of breeds, such as Aberdeen Angus and Nelore heifer with high or low AFC, on abundance of transcripts and protein related to oviductal transport, sperm reservoir formation, monospermy control, and gamete interaction in the oviducts. In summary, the ovulation side was the major factor that affected transcript abundance on bovine oviducts. However, a discreet effect among AFC and cattle breeds was also observed. Based on this, we concluded and reinforced here that differential microenvironments between ipsilateral and contralateral oviducts have a major effect on modulating the transcripts related to oviductal transport, sperm reservoir formation, monospermy control, and gamete interaction. However, we cannot exclude that there is minimal effect of AFC or breed on regulation of some genes (such as AGTR1, ACE1, FUCA1, and VEGFA) in bovine oviducts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Kubo Fontes
- Departament of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ronaldo Luis Ereno
- Departament of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - André Rebello Peixoto
- Departament of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Robson Francisco Carvalho
- Departament of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Wellerson Rodrigo Scarano
- Departament of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luzia Aparecida Trinca
- Departament of Biostatistic, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ciro Moraes Barros
- Departament of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
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25
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Radefeld K, Papp S, Havlicek V, Morrell JM, Brem G, Besenfelder U. Endoscopy-mediated intratubal insemination in the cow - Development of a novel minimally invasive AI technique. Theriogenology 2018; 115:117-123. [PMID: 29751229 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2018] [Revised: 04/24/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Conventionally inseminated spermatozoa suffer a dramatic reduction in numbers during their long journey until fertilization. In addition sperm survival seems to be strongly affected by the reconstitution of the female reproductive tract in the post partum period. The purpose of this study was to develop a novel AI technique for cattle that allows the deposition of spermatozoa directly into the ampulla in the immediate vicinity of the fertilization site. This new reproductive biotechnique was investigated with focus on semen origin, sperm dosage, semen preparation and time of insemination. Finally, a first practical application was carried out by inseminating superovulated heifers with sex-sorted semen. In total, 49 Simmental heifers were used for 65 intratubal inseminations (ITI) with single ovulation and 8 ITIs after superovulation, respectively. Insemination into the oviduct was performed under epidural anesthesia via transvaginal endoscopy using a curved glass capillary loaded with semen. Two days later the oviduct and the adjacent uterine horn were endoscopically flushed and embryos or unfertilized oocytes were collected for determination of fertilization success. Across all experimental groups, tubal insemination successfully resulted in the collection of embryos; however, first tubal AI attempts and ITIs close to ovulation led to low recovery rates. In total, 109 complexes were flushed from ITIs in superstimulated heifers (n = 8) using sex sorted semen, of which 24 (22%) were at the embryo stage. In conclusion, it was shown that intratubal insemination can be successfully used for semen deposition, thus bypassing the lower female genital tract. Factors such as time of insemination, semen processing and semen quantity for superovulatory use should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Radefeld
- Reproduction Centre Wieselburg, Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Rottenhauser Straße 32, 3250, Wieselburg, Austria
| | - Sophie Papp
- Reproduction Centre Wieselburg, Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Rottenhauser Straße 32, 3250, Wieselburg, Austria
| | - Vitezslav Havlicek
- Reproduction Centre Wieselburg, Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Rottenhauser Straße 32, 3250, Wieselburg, Austria; Department of Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Biotechnology in Animal Production, IFA-Tulln, 3430, Tulln, Austria
| | - Jane M Morrell
- Department of Clinical Science, Swedish University of Agricultural Science, P.O. Box 7070, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gottfried Brem
- Institute for Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Urban Besenfelder
- Reproduction Centre Wieselburg, Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Rottenhauser Straße 32, 3250, Wieselburg, Austria; Department of Agrobiotechnology, Institute of Biotechnology in Animal Production, IFA-Tulln, 3430, Tulln, Austria.
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26
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Lamy J, Nogues P, Combes-Soia L, Tsikis G, Labas V, Mermillod P, Druart X, Saint-Dizier M. Identification by proteomics of oviductal sperm-interacting proteins. Reproduction 2018. [PMID: 29540510 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The interactions between oviductal fluid (OF) proteins and spermatozoa play major roles in sperm selection, storage and capacitation before fertilization. However, only a few sperm-interacting proteins in the OF has been identified and very little is known about the regulation of sperm-oviduct interactions across the estrous cycle. Samples of bovine frozen-thawed sperm from three bulls were incubated with OF at pre-, post-ovulatory stages (Pre-/Post-ov) or luteal phase (LP) of the estrous cycle (7 mg/mL proteins, treated groups) or with a protein-free media (control). The proteomes of sperm cells were assessed by nanoLC-MS/MS and quantified by label-free methods. A total of 27 sperm-interacting proteins originating in the OF were identified. Among those, 14 were detected at all stages, eight at Post-ov and LP and five only at LP. The sperm-interacting proteins detected at all stages or at LP and Post-ov were on average more abundant at LP than at other stages (P < 0.05). At Pre-ov, OVGP1 was the most abundant sperm-interacting protein while at Post-ov, ACTB, HSP27, MYH9, MYH14 and OVGP1 were predominant. Different patterns of abundance of sperm-interacting proteins related to the stage were evidenced, which greatly differed from those previously reported in the bovine OF. In conclusion, this study highlights the important regulations of sperm-oviduct interactions across the estrous cycle and provides new protein candidates that may modulate sperm functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Lamy
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Perrine Nogues
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Lucie Combes-Soia
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France.,INRACIRE (Plate-forme de Chirurgie et d'Imagerie pour la Recherche et l'Enseignement), PAIB (Pôle d'Analyse et d'Imagerie des Biomolécules), Nouzilly, France
| | - Guillaume Tsikis
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Valérie Labas
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France.,INRACIRE (Plate-forme de Chirurgie et d'Imagerie pour la Recherche et l'Enseignement), PAIB (Pôle d'Analyse et d'Imagerie des Biomolécules), Nouzilly, France
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Xavier Druart
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, Nouzilly, France .,University of ToursFaculty of Sciences and Techniques, Tours, France
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27
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Binelli M, Gonella-Diaza AM, Mesquita FS, Membrive CMB. Sex Steroid-Mediated Control of Oviductal Function in Cattle. BIOLOGY 2018; 7:E15. [PMID: 29393864 PMCID: PMC5872041 DOI: 10.3390/biology7010015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Revised: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In cattle, the oviduct is a tubular organ that connects the ovary and the uterus. The oviduct lumen stages a dynamic set of cellular and molecular interactions to fulfill the noble role of generating a new individual. Specific anatomical niches along the oviduct lumen provide the appropriate microenvironment for final sperm capacitation, oocyte capture and fertilization, and early embryo development and transport. To accomplish such complex tasks, the oviduct undergoes spatially and temporally-regulated morphological, biochemical, and physiological changes that are associated with endocrine events of the estrous cycle. Specifically, elevated periovulatory concentrations of estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) influence gene expression and morphological changes that have been associated positively to fertility in beef cattle. In this review, we explore how E2 and P4 influence oviductal function in the beginning of the estrous cycle, and prepare the oviductal lumen for interactions with gametes and embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Binelli
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, PO Box 110910, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA.
| | - Angela Maria Gonella-Diaza
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Rua Duque de Caxias Norte, 255, Bairro: Jardim Elite, Pirassununga 13635-900, SP, Brazil.
| | - Fernando Silveira Mesquita
- Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Pampa, UNIPAMPA, BR 472-Km 592, Uruguaiana 97508-000, RS, Brazil.
| | - Claudia Maria Bertan Membrive
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias Tecnológicas-FCAT, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita", Rodovia Comandante João Ribeiro de Barros (SP 294), Km 651, Dracena 17900-000, SP, Brazil.
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28
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Gervasi MG, Visconti PE. Chang's meaning of capacitation: A molecular perspective. Mol Reprod Dev 2018; 83:860-874. [PMID: 27256723 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Dr. Min Chue Chang's contributions to the field of reproductive biology set the stage for the development of the contraceptive pill and in vitro fertilization. Throughout his publications, Dr. Chang was also able to transmit his view of the fertilization process in ways that organized research for newer generations of reproductive biologists. Particularly relevant for the achievement of in vitro fertilization in mammals was the discovery that the sperm required a period of residence in the female tract to become fertilization-competent; Dr. Chang and Dr. Austin, in Australia, independently reported this process, now known as sperm capacitation. This review discusses Dr. Chang's views on capacitation, and puts them in the context of recent advances in the understanding of the molecular basis of this process. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 83: 860-874, 2016 © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Gracia Gervasi
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, ISB, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts
| | - Pablo E Visconti
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, ISB, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts.
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29
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Pérez-Cerezales S, Ramos-Ibeas P, Acuña OS, Avilés M, Coy P, Rizos D, Gutiérrez-Adán A. The oviduct: from sperm selection to the epigenetic landscape of the embryo†. Biol Reprod 2017; 98:262-276. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Serafín Pérez-Cerezales
- Departmento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Priscila Ramos-Ibeas
- School of Agriculture, Food Science and Veterinary Medicine, College of Life Sciences, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Omar Salvador Acuña
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma de Sinaloa, Culiacán, Mexico
| | - Manuel Avilés
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca Murcia, Spain
| | - Pilar Coy
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca Murcia, Spain
- Physiology of Reproduction Group, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Murcia-Campus Mare Nostrum, Murcia, Spain
| | - Dimitrios Rizos
- Departmento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alfonso Gutiérrez-Adán
- Departmento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
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30
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Lamy J, Corbin E, Blache MC, Garanina AS, Uzbekov R, Mermillod P, Saint-Dizier M. Steroid hormones regulate sperm-oviduct interactions in the bovine. Reproduction 2017; 154:497-508. [PMID: 28729465 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Revised: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
After insemination in the cow, a sperm reservoir is formed within the oviducts, allowing the storage and then progressive release of spermatozoa toward the ovulated oocyte. In order to investigate the hormonal regulation of these events in vitro, the ovarian steroids 17β-estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) were added at various concentrations to monolayers of bovine oviduct epithelial cells (BOEC) before or during co-incubation with spermatozoa. Main findings demonstrate that (1) a 18-h pretreatment of BOEC with 100 pg/mL and 100 ng/mL of E2 decreased by 25% the ability of BOEC to bind spermatozoa after 10 min, and for the highest dose of E2, 60 min of co-incubation; (2) P4 at concentrations of 10, 100 and 1000 ng/mL induced the release within 60 min of 32-47% of bound spermatozoa from BOEC; this sperm-releasing effect was maintained after a 18-h pretreatment of BOEC with 100 pg/mL of E2; (3) E2 in concentrations above 100 pg/mL inhibited the releasing effect of P4 on bound sperm in a dose-dependent manner; (4) spermatozoa bound to BOEC, then released from BOEC by the action of P4-induced higher cleavage and blastocyst rates after in vitro fertilization than the control group. These results support the hypothesis that the dynamic changes in steroid hormones around the time of ovulation regulate the formation of the sperm reservoir and the timed delivery of capacitated spermatozoa to the site of fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Lamy
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, UFR, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Emilie Corbin
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, UFR, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Marie-Claire Blache
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, UFR, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Anastasiia S Garanina
- Université François Rabelais de ToursDépartement des Microscopies, Tours, France.,NUST MISiSLeninskiy prospekt 4, Moscow, Russia
| | - Rustem Uzbekov
- Université François Rabelais de ToursDépartement des Microscopies, Tours, France.,Faculty of Bioengineering and BioinformaticsMoscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, UFR, IFCE, Nouzilly, France
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)UMR85, INRA, CNRS, UFR, IFCE, Nouzilly, France .,Université François Rabelais de ToursUFR Sciences et Techniques, Tours, France
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31
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Feugang JM. Novel agents for sperm purification, sorting, and imaging. Mol Reprod Dev 2017; 84:832-841. [PMID: 28481043 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The stringent selection of viable spermatozoa ensures the transmission of high-quality genetic material to the egg during fertilization. Sperm heterogeneity within or between ejaculates and between males obliges varied post-collection handling of semen to assure satisfactory fertility rates. The current techniques used to assess sperm generally detect non-viable and non-fertilizing gametes in the ejaculate, but do not permit the investigation of semen for improved fertility outcomes. Advances in technology, however, have spurred the search for new approaches to enrich semen with high-quality spermatozoa and to track intra-uterine sperm migration. This review highlights the current and future methodologies used for sperm labeling, selection, tracking, and imaging, with specific emphasis on the recent influence of nanotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean M Feugang
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, Mississippi
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32
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Rizos D, Maillo V, Sánchez-Calabuig MJ, Lonergan P. The Consequences of Maternal-Embryonic Cross Talk During the Periconception Period on Subsequent Embryonic Development. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 1014:69-86. [PMID: 28864985 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-62414-3_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The periconception period comprises the final maturation of sperm and the processes of fertilization and early embryonic development, which take place in the oviduct. The final goal of these important events is to lead to establishment of pregnancy leading to the birth of healthy offspring. Studies in rodents and domestic animals have demonstrated that environmental conditions experienced during early development affect critical aspects of future growth, metabolism, gene expression, and physiology. Similarly, in vitro culture of embryos can be associated with changes in fetal growth, gene expression and regulation, and postnatal behavior.In the oviduct, the cross talk between the mother and gametes/embryo begins after ovulation, between the oocyte and the female reproductive tract, and continues with the sperm and the early embryo after successful fertilization. These signals are mainly the result of direct interaction of gametes and embryos with oviductal and endometrial cells, influencing the microenvironment at the specific location. Identifying and understanding the mechanisms involved in this cross talk during the critical period of early reproductive events leading to pregnancy establishment could potentially lead to improvements in current in vitro embryo production systems in domestic mammals and humans. In this review, we discuss current knowledge of the short- and long-term consequences of in vitro embryo production on embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Rizos
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Ctra. de la Coruña Km. 5,9, 28040, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Veronica Maillo
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Ctra. de la Coruña Km. 5,9, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria-Jesús Sánchez-Calabuig
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Ctra. de la Coruña Km. 5,9, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Patrick Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
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33
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Batista RITP, Moro LN, Corbin E, Alminana C, Souza-Fabjan JMG, de Figueirêdo Freitas VJ, Mermillod P. Combination of oviduct fluid and heparin to improve monospermic zygotes production during porcine in vitro fertilization. Theriogenology 2016; 86:495-502. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.01.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2015] [Revised: 01/29/2016] [Accepted: 01/30/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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34
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Leemans B, Gadella BM, Stout TAE, Sostaric E, Schauwer CD, Nelis H, Hoogewijs M, Van Soom A. Combined albumin and bicarbonate induces head-to-head sperm agglutination which physically prevents equine sperm–oviduct binding. Reproduction 2016; 151:313-30. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-15-0471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2015] [Accepted: 01/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
In many species, sperm binding to oviduct epithelium is believed to be an essential step in generating a highly fertile capacitated sperm population primed for fertilization. In several mammalian species, this interaction is based on carbohydrate-lectin recognition.d-galactose has previously been characterized as a key molecule that facilitates sperm–oviduct binding in the horse. We used oviduct explant and oviduct apical plasma membrane (APM) assays to investigate the effects of various carbohydrates; glycosaminoglycans; lectins; S-S reductants; and the capacitating factors albumin, Ca2+and HCO3−on sperm–oviduct binding in the horse. Carbohydrate-specific lectin staining indicated thatN-acetylgalactosamine,N-acetylneuraminic acid (sialic acid) andd-mannose ord-glucose were the most abundant carbohydrates on equine oviduct epithelia, whereasd-galactose moieties were not detected. However, in a competitive binding assay, sperm–oviduct binding density was not influenced by any tested carbohydrates, glycosaminoglycans, lectins ord-penicillamine, nor did the glycosaminoglycans induce sperm tail-associated protein tyrosine phosphorylation. Furthermore,N-glycosidase F (PNGase) pretreatment of oviduct explants and APM did not alter sperm–oviduct binding density. By contrast, a combination of the sperm-capacitating factors albumin and HCO3−severely reduced (>10-fold) equine sperm–oviduct binding density by inducing rapid head-to-head agglutination, both of which events were independent of Ca2+and an elevated pH (7.9). Conversely, neither albumin and HCO3−nor any other capacitating factor could induce release of oviduct-bound sperm. In conclusion, a combination of albumin and HCO3−markedly induced sperm head-to-head agglutination which physically prevented stallion sperm to bind to oviduct epithelium.
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35
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Esterman RD, Alava EN, Austin BR, Hersom MJ, Yelich JV. Select Synch and Co-Synch protocols using a CIDR yield similar pregnancy rates after a fixed-time insemination in suckled Bos indicus × Bos taurus cows. Theriogenology 2016; 85:870-876. [PMID: 26631280 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.10.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2015] [Revised: 10/26/2015] [Accepted: 10/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Primiparous and multiparous suckled Bos indicus × Bos taurus cows were used to compare a Select Synch + controlled internal drug release (CIDR) and timed artificial insemination (AI) protocol (SSC) to a modified CO-Synch + CIDR protocol (COS). Five separate groups of cows were utilized (n = 659) and within a group, cows were allotted to two treatments on the basis of body condition score (BCS) taken 10 days before and days postpartum at CIDR insertion (Day 0). Blood samples were collected on Day -10 and 0 for assessment of circulating concentrations of progesterone to determine estrous cycling status. Cows in both treatments received intramuscular (im) GnRH (100 μg) and a CIDR inserted on Day 0. On Day 7, the SSC treatment had CIDR removed and received im PGF2α (25 mg), whereas COS treatment had CIDR removed and received im PGF2α (25 mg) on Day 7.5. In the SSC treatment, estrus was detected daily at 0700 and 1700 hours for 72 hours after PGF2α administration, and cows were artificially inseminated 8 to 12 hours after a detected estrus. Cows failing to exhibit estrus were subjected to timed-AI and received im GnRH (100 μg) 76 ± 4 hours after PGF2α administration. In the COS treatment, cows received im GnRH (100 μg) and were fixed-time artificially inseminated at 64 ± 4 hours after PGF2α administration. Although group differences (P < 0.05) existed for synchronized AI pregnancy rates, there were no significant interactions of group with any variable analyzed; hence, groups were pooled for further evaluation. Within the SSC treatment, the 72-hour estrous response was 50.6% (168 of 332). Conception rate of cows in estrus was 66.1% (111 of 168), and timed-AI pregnancy rate for nonresponders was 32.3% (53 of 164). Overall synchronized AI pregnancy rates were similar (P > 0.05) for SSC (49.4%; n = 164 of 332) and COS (47.1%; n = 154 of 327). Estrous cycling status and days postpartum did not (P > 0.05) influence synchronized AI pregnancy rates but BCS did (P < 0.05). Cows with a BCS greater than or equal to 5 had synchronized AI pregnancy rates of 50% compared to 39% for cows with BCS lesser than 5.0. In summary, the modified COS protocol yielded similar synchronized AI pregnancy rates compared to the SSC protocol, and it appears that the modified COS protocol has the potential to be an effective timed-AI protocol in suckled Bos indicus × Bos taurus cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina D Esterman
- Department of Animal Sciences, The University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Erin N Alava
- Department of Animal Sciences, The University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Brad R Austin
- Department of Animal Sciences, The University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Matthew J Hersom
- Department of Animal Sciences, The University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Joel V Yelich
- Department of Animal Sciences, The University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA.
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Ferrer MS, Anderson DE, Miller LMJ, George A, Miesner M, Wilkerson M. Effect of Bovine Sperm-Bound Antisperm Antibodies on Oviductal Binding Index. Reprod Domest Anim 2016; 51:287-93. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Accepted: 01/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- MS Ferrer
- Department of Clinical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine; Kansas State University; Manhattan KS USA
| | - DE Anderson
- Department of Clinical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine; Kansas State University; Manhattan KS USA
| | - LMJ Miller
- Department of Clinical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine; Kansas State University; Manhattan KS USA
| | - A George
- Diagnostic Medicine and Pathobiology; College of Veterinary Medicine; Kansas State University; Manhattan KS USA
| | - M Miesner
- Department of Clinical Sciences; College of Veterinary Medicine; Kansas State University; Manhattan KS USA
| | - M Wilkerson
- Diagnostic Medicine and Pathobiology; College of Veterinary Medicine; Kansas State University; Manhattan KS USA
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Communication requested: Boar semen transport through the uterus and possible consequences for insemination. Theriogenology 2016; 85:94-104. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2015] [Revised: 09/07/2015] [Accepted: 09/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Sakkas D, Ramalingam M, Garrido N, Barratt CLR. Sperm selection in natural conception: what can we learn from Mother Nature to improve assisted reproduction outcomes? Hum Reprod Update 2015; 21:711-26. [PMID: 26386468 PMCID: PMC4594619 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmv042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2014] [Accepted: 08/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In natural conception only a few sperm cells reach the ampulla or the site of fertilization. This population is a selected group of cells since only motile cells can pass through cervical mucus and gain initial entry into the female reproductive tract. In animals, some studies indicate that the sperm selected by the reproductive tract and recovered from the uterus and the oviducts have higher fertilization rates but this is not a universal finding. Some species show less discrimination in sperm selection and abnormal sperm do arrive at the oviduct. In contrast, assisted reproductive technologies (ART) utilize a more random sperm population. In this review we contrast the journey of the spermatozoon in vivo and in vitro and discuss this in the context of developing new sperm preparation and selection techniques for ART. METHODS A review of the literature examining characteristics of the spermatozoa selected in vivo is compared with recent developments in in vitro selection and preparation methods. Contrasts and similarities are presented. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS New technologies are being developed to aid in the diagnosis, preparation and selection of spermatozoa in ART. To date progress has been frustrating and these methods have provided variable benefits in improving outcomes after ART. It is more likely that examining the mechanisms enforced by nature will provide valuable information in regard to sperm selection and preparation techniques in vitro. Identifying the properties of those spermatozoa which do reach the oviduct will also be important for the development of more effective tests of semen quality. In this review we examine the value of sperm selection to see how much guidance for ART can be gleaned from the natural selection processes in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denny Sakkas
- Boston IVF, 130 Second Ave, Waltham, MA 02451, USA
| | - Mythili Ramalingam
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Medical School, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
| | | | - Christopher L R Barratt
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Medical School, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
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39
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Liu
- Department of Life Science and Graduate Institute of Biotechnology, Chinese Culture University, Taipei, Republic of China
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40
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Annexin A2 and S100A10 in the mammalian oviduct. Cell Tissue Res 2015; 363:567-77. [PMID: 26329302 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-015-2266-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2015] [Accepted: 07/31/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In many mammals, upon entry into the female reproductive tract, a subpopulation of sperm is stored in the oviduct forming a functional reservoir. In the oviducts of pig and cow, Annexin A2 (AnxA2) has been linked to the binding of sperm. This protein may exist as a monomer or bound to S100A10 and both forms are associated with different biological functions. S100A10 has not yet been reported in the oviduct. The objective of this work is to analyze for the presence of S100A10 in the oviduct and to advance the study of AnxA2 and S100A10 in this organ. This work shows the presence of both proteins, AnxA2 and S100A10, in the oviduct of human, pig, cow, cat, dog and rabbit. At least in pig, AnxA2 is found devoid of S100A10 in the outer surface of the apical plasma membrane of oviductal epithelial cells, indicating that it binds to sperm as a monomer or in association with proteins different from S100A10. In the apical cytoplasm of pig oviductal epithelial cells, AnxA2 is associated with S100A10. In primary culture of porcine oviductal cells, the expression of ANXA2 is increased by progesterone, while the expression of S100A10 is increased by progesterone and estradiol. The widespread detection of both proteins in the oviduct of mammals indicates a probable conserved function in this organ. In summary, S100A10 and AnxA2 are widespread in the mammalian oviduct but AnxA2 binds sperm in vivo devoid of S100A10 and may be related to reservoir formation.
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41
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Suarez SS. Mammalian sperm interactions with the female reproductive tract. Cell Tissue Res 2015; 363:185-194. [PMID: 26183721 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-015-2244-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2015] [Accepted: 06/18/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian female reproductive tract interacts with sperm in various ways in order to facilitate sperm migration to the egg while impeding migrations of pathogens into the tract, to keep sperm alive during the time between mating and ovulation, and to select the fittest sperm for fertilization. The two main types of interactions are physical and molecular. Physical interactions include the swimming responses of sperm to the microarchitecture of walls, to fluid flows, and to fluid viscoelasticity. When sperm encounter walls, they have a strong tendency to remain swimming along them. Sperm will also orient their swimming into gentle fluid flows. The female tract seems to use these tendencies of sperm to guide them to the site of fertilization. When sperm hyperactivate, they are better able to penetrate highly viscoelastic media, such as the cumulus matrix surrounding eggs. Molecular interactions include communications of sperm surface molecules with receptors on the epithelial lining of the tract. There is evidence that specific sperm surface molecules are required to enable sperm to pass through the uterotubal junction into the oviduct. When sperm reach the oviduct, most bind to the oviductal epithelium. This interaction holds sperm in a storage reservoir until ovulation and serves to maintain the fertilization competence of stored sperm. When sperm are released from the reservoir, they detach from and re-attach to the epithelium repeatedly while ascending to the site of fertilization. We are only beginning to understand the communications that may pass between sperm and epithelium during these interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan S Suarez
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA.
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Larimore EL, Amundson OL, Bird SL, Funnell BJ, Kruse SG, Bridges GA, Perry GA. Influence of estrus at fixed-time artificial insemination on early embryonic development in beef cattle. J Anim Sci 2015; 93:2806-12. [DOI: 10.2527/jas.2015-8892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Torres-Júnior J, Penteado L, Sales J, Sá Filho M, Ayres H, Baruselli P. A comparison of two different esters of estradiol for the induction of ovulation in an estradiol plus progestin-based timed artificial insemination protocol for suckled Bos indicus beef cows. Anim Reprod Sci 2014; 151:9-14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2014.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2013] [Revised: 09/20/2014] [Accepted: 09/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Fontes P, Castilho A, Razza E, Ereno R, Satrapa R, Barros C. Prostaglandin receptors (EP2 and EP4) and angiotensin receptor (AGTR2) mRNA expression increases in the oviducts of Nelore cows submitted to ovarian superstimulation. Anim Reprod Sci 2014; 151:112-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2014.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2014] [Revised: 10/01/2014] [Accepted: 10/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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45
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Leemans B, Gadella BM, Sostaric E, Nelis H, Stout TA, Hoogewijs M, Van Soom A. Oviduct Binding and Elevated Environmental pH Induce Protein Tyrosine Phosphorylation in Stallion Spermatozoa1. Biol Reprod 2014; 91:13. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.116418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
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46
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Sood P, Bhavna. Polymorphonuclear neutrophil profile in genital discharge vis-à-vis pregnancy outcome in crossbred cows: effect of varying cow fertility and insemination from different bulls. Anim Reprod Sci 2014; 146:143-7. [PMID: 24703367 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2014.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2012] [Revised: 03/06/2014] [Accepted: 03/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The study investigated the relationship between count and/or viability percentage of polymorphonuclear neutrophil(s) (PMN) in genital discharge and pregnancy outcome during 180 estrous periods in 163 normal and repeat breeder. The relationship was also evaluated as a response to AI by three of the most frequently used bulls. The estrous periods leading to pregnancy in the normal cows were considered fertile (FE; n=66), whereas others with pregnancy failure were considered non-fertile in the remaining normal (NFE; n=86) and the entire group of repeat breeder cows (RB; n=28) cows. Another set of reproductively healthy cows, not inseminated, were also studied (C; n=10). The PMN characteristics were investigated in 3μl fraction of cervical discharge, aspirated initially at mid-estrus in C/pre-AI in the inseminated cows and subsequently 18 to 24h later. The first sample did not reveal PMN in all the cows. However, there was a variable PMN response in the second sample. The PMN count of 9.3±1.9 in the C group was least and significantly less than the FE and NFE groups. A count of 90.9±8.4 in the FE group was greater (P<0.01) than 60.9±5.1 in the NFE and 36.7±5.2 in the RB group. The PMN viability percentage among the four groups was similar (range: 61.3±6.5% to 70.1±6.4%). The average PMN count in response to AI with all the three bulls, JY-426 (47 inseminations), JY-450 (23 inseminations) and HF-5 (33 inseminations), was less in the NFE than the FE group, the differences being marked in NFE compared with FE for JY-450 (51.8±12.4 compared with 88.0±17.4; P=0.10) and HF-5 (38.5±10.1 compared with 92.9±26.5; P<0.05). It is concluded that a greater PMN count post-AI could favor pregnancy outcome. Further, PMN migration is likely to be controlled by maternal factors rather than semen characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankaj Sood
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, DGCN College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, Palampur 176 062, Himachal Pradesh, India.
| | - Bhavna
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Khalsa College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Amritsar 143 001, Punjab, India
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Improving bovine semen diluents: insights from the male and female reproductive tracts, and the potential relevance of cervical mucins. Animal 2014; 8 Suppl 1:173-84. [DOI: 10.1017/s1751731114000287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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Abstract
SummaryThe oviduct is a dynamic organ in which final gamete maturation, fertilization and early embryo development take place. It is considered to be a sterile site; however the mechanism for sterility maintenance is still unknown. S100A7 is an anti-microbial peptide that has been reported in human reproductive tissues such as prostate, testicle, ovary, normal cervical epithelium and sperm. The current work reports the presence of S100A7 in the Fallopian tube and its localization at the apical surface of epithelial cells. For comparison, porcine S100A7 was used for antibody development and search for peptide in reproductive tissues. Although present in boar seminal vesicles and seminal plasma, S100A7 was not detected on female porcine organs. Also, in contrast with the human protein, porcine S100A7 did not show anti-microbial activity under the conditions tested. Phylogenetic analyses showed high divergence of porcine S100A7 from human, primate, bovine, ovine and equine sequences, being the murine sequence at a most distant branch. The differences in sequence homology, Escherichia coli-cidal activity, detectable presence and localization of S100A7 from human and pig, suggest that there are possible different functions in each organism.
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Carvalho PD, Souza AH, Sartori R, Hackbart KS, Dresch AR, Vieira LM, Baruselli PS, Guenther JN, Fricke PM, Shaver RD, Wiltbank MC. Effects of deep-horn AI on fertilization and embryo production in superovulated cows and heifers. Theriogenology 2013; 80:1074-81. [PMID: 24084230 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2013.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2013] [Revised: 08/10/2013] [Accepted: 08/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The primary objective of this study was to determine the effect of site of semen deposition on fertilization rate and embryo quality in superovulated cows. The hypothesis was that deposition of semen into the uterine horns would increase the fertilization rate compared with deposition of semen into the uterine body. The secondary objective was to evaluate the effect of uterine environment on fertilization rate and embryo quality. It was hypothesized that subclinical endometritis at the onset of superstimulation would decrease the fertilization rates and embryo quality. In experiment 1, 17 superovulated heifers were randomly assigned to receive artificial insemination (AI) into the uterine body or uterine horns. The total number of fertilized structures and fertilization rate from superovulated heifers was increased (P = 0.04 and P = 0.02, respectively) when semen was deposited into the uterine horns compared with the uterine body. Other embryo characteristics did not differ based on the site of semen deposition. In experiment 2, 14 lactating dairy cows were superovulated twice and were randomly assigned to receive AI into the uterine body or deep into the uterine horns using a crossover design. Neither fertilization rate nor any other embryo characteristics were improved when semen was placed deep into the uterine horns compared with the uterine body. In experiment 3, 72 superovulated lactating dairy cows were randomly assigned to receive AI into the uterine body or uterine horns. Before initiation of superstimulatory treatments, an endometrial cytology sample was collected from each cow. Ova/embryos were collected by a nonsurgical technique at 70 ± 3 days in milk. Similar to experiment 2, neither fertilization rate nor any other embryo characteristics differed based on the site of semen deposition in experiment 3. The percentage of cows with subclinical endometritis did not differ between treatments. Interestingly, there was a tendency (P = 0.09) for a reduction in embryo recovery rate and a reduction (P = 0.01) in the fertilization rate for cows with subclinical endometritis. In conclusion, deposition of semen into the uterine horns rather than into the uterine body did not improve the fertilization rate or embryo quality in superovulated cows. Subclinical endometritis decreased the fertilization rate in superovulated cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- P D Carvalho
- Department of Dairy Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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50
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Sá Filho MF, Penteado L, Siqueira GR, Soares JG, Mendanha MF, Macedo GG, Baruselli PS. Timed artificial insemination should be performed early when used norgestomet ear implants are applied for synchronizing ovulation in beef heifers. Theriogenology 2013; 80:642-7. [PMID: 23886599 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2013.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2013] [Revised: 06/02/2013] [Accepted: 06/06/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The present study evaluated the effect of the type of norgestomet ear implant (new vs. used) on the ovarian follicular response (experiment 1) and pregnancy per artificial insemination (AI) (P/AI; experiment 2) of beef heifers subjected to an estradiol plus progestin timed artificial insemination (TAI) program. In experiment 1, 57 cyclic beef heifers were randomly assigned to one of two groups according to the type (new or previously used for 9 days) of norgestomet ear (NORG) implant. At the time of NORG implant insertion, the heifers were treated with 2 mg of intramuscular estradiol benzoate. Eight days later, the NORG implants were removed, and the heifers received an intramuscular administration of 150 μg of d-cloprostenol, 300 IU of equine chorionic gonadotropin, and 0.5 mg of estradiol cypionate. The heifers had their ovaries scanned every 12 hours from the time of NORG implant removal to 96 hours after verifying the occurrence and timing of ovulation. No difference (P = 0.89) was observed in the ovulation rates between the two treatments (new = 80.0%; 24/30 vs. used = 81.5%; 22/27). However, the heifers treated with a used NORG implant had (P = 0.04) higher proportion (36.4%; 8/22) of early ovulation (between 36 and 48 hours after NORG implant removal) compared with the heifers treated with a new NORG implant (8.3%; 2/24). In experiment 2, at the beginning of the synchronization protocol, 416 beef heifers were randomly assigned into two groups, as described in the experiment 1. Two days after the NORG implant removal, the heifers were reassigned to be inseminated at 48 or 54 hours after NORG implant removal. There was an interaction (P = 0.03) between the type of NORG implant and the timing of TAI on P/AI. The timing of insemination only had an effect (P = 0.02) on the P/AI when the heifers were treated with a used NORG implant [(TAI 54 hours = 41.9% (44/105) vs. TAI 48 hours = 58.6% (58/99)]. In conclusion, beef heifers synchronized with a used NORG implant plus estradiol exhibited a higher proportion of earlier ovulations, and TAI in these heifers should be performed 48 hours after removal of used NORG implants.
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Affiliation(s)
- M F Sá Filho
- Department of Animal Reproduction, FMVZ-USP, Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva, São Paulo, Brazil.
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