1
|
Gu Y, Zhang X, Wang R, Wei Y, Peng H, Wang K, Li H, Ji Y. Metabolomic profiling of exosomes reveals age-related changes in ovarian follicular fluid. Eur J Med Res 2024; 29:4. [PMID: 38173013 PMCID: PMC10762974 DOI: 10.1186/s40001-023-01586-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female fertility declines with increased maternal age, and this decline is even more rapid after the age of 35 years. Follicular fluid (FF) is a crucial microenvironment that plays a significant role in the development of oocytes, permits intercellular communication, and provides the oocytes with nutrition. Exosomes have emerged as being important cell communication mediators that are linked to age-related physiological and pathological conditions. However, the metabolomic profiling of FF derived exosomes from advanced age females are still lacking. METHODS The individuals who were involved in this study were separated into two different groups: young age with a normal ovarian reserve and advanced age. The samples were analysed by using gas chromatography-time of flight mass spectrometry (GC-TOFMS) analysis. The altered metabolites were analysed by using Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis to identify the functions and pathways that were involved. RESULTS Our data showed that metabolites in exosomes from FF were different between women of young age and women of advanced age. The set of 17 FF exosomal metabolites (P ≤ 0.05) may be biomarkers to differentiate between the two groups. Most of these differentially expressed metabolites in FF were closely involved in the regulation of oocyte number and hormone levels. CONCLUSIONS In this study, we identified differences in the metabolites of exosomes from FF between women of young age and women of advanced age. These different metabolites were tightly related to oocyte count and hormone levels. Importantly, these findings elucidate the metabolites of the FF exosomes and provide a better understanding of the nutritional profiles of the follicles with age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanqiong Gu
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, No. 2699, West Gaoke Road, Shanghai, 201204, China
| | - Xunyi Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University, Shanghai, , No. 389 Xincun Road, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Ruixue Wang
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, No. 2699, West Gaoke Road, Shanghai, 201204, China
| | - Yingying Wei
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, No. 2699, West Gaoke Road, Shanghai, 201204, China
| | - Hao Peng
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, No. 2699, West Gaoke Road, Shanghai, 201204, China
| | - Kai Wang
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, No. 2699, West Gaoke Road, Shanghai, 201204, China
| | - Han Li
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Shanghai Institute of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Gynecologic Oncology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, No. 2699, West Gaoke Road, Shanghai, 201204, China.
| | - Yazhong Ji
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University, Shanghai, , No. 389 Xincun Road, Shanghai, 200065, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Uju CN, Unniappan S. Growth factors and female reproduction in vertebrates. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 579:112091. [PMID: 37863469 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.112091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Female reproductive efficiency is influenced by the outcomes of various processes, including folliculogenesis, apoptosis, response to gonadotropin signaling, oocyte maturation, and ovulation. The role of hormones in regulating these processes and other reproductive activities has been well established. It is becoming increasingly evident that in addition to well-characterized hormones, growth factors play vital roles in regulating some of these reproductive activities. Growth factors and their receptors are widely distributed in vertebrate ovaries at different stages of ovarian development, indicating their involvement in intraovarian reproductive functions. In the ovary, cell surface receptors allow growth factors to regulate intraovarian reproductive activities. Understanding these actions in the reproductive axis would provide a tool to target growth factors and/or their receptors to yield desirable reproductive outcomes. These include enrichment of in vitro maturation and fertilization culture media, and management of infertility. This review discusses some widely characterized growth factors belonging to the TGF, EGF, IGF, FGF, and BDNF family of peptides and their role in female reproduction in vertebrates, with a focus on mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chinelo N Uju
- Laboratory of Integrative Neuroendocrinology, Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Suraj Unniappan
- Laboratory of Integrative Neuroendocrinology, Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N 5B4, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Piechota S, Marchante M, Giovannini A, Paulsen B, Potts KS, Rockwell G, Aschenberger C, Noblett AD, Figueroa AB, Sanchez M, Barrachina F, Wiemer K, Guzman L, Belchin P, Pierson Smela M, Fortuna PRJ, Chatterjee P, Tran ND, Kelk DA, Forti M, Marcinyshyn S, Smith T, McCulloh DH, Fernandez-Gonzalez MJ, Abittan B, Ortiz S, Klein JU, Klatsky P, Ordonez-Perez D, Kramme CC. Human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived ovarian support cell co-culture improves oocyte maturation in vitro after abbreviated gonadotropin stimulation. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:2456-2469. [PMID: 37815487 PMCID: PMC10694404 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can in vitro maturation (IVM) and developmental competence of human oocytes be improved by co-culture with ovarian support cells (OSCs) derived from human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs)? SUMMARY ANSWER OSC-IVM significantly improves the rates of metaphase II (MII) formation and euploid Day 5 or 6 blastocyst formation, when compared to a commercially available IVM system. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY IVM has historically shown highly variable performance in maturing oocytes and generating oocytes with strong developmental capacity, while limited studies have shown a positive benefit of primary granulosa cell co-culture for IVM. We recently reported the development of OSCs generated from hiPSCs that recapitulate dynamic ovarian function in vitro. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION The study was designed as a basic science study, using randomized sibling oocyte specimen allocation. Using pilot study data, a prospective sample size of 20 donors or at least 65 oocytes per condition were used for subsequent experiments. A total of 67 oocyte donors were recruited to undergo abbreviated gonadotropin stimulation with or without hCG triggers and retrieved cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were allocated between the OSC-IVM or control conditions (fetal-like OSC (FOSC)-IVM or media-only IVM) in three independent experimental design formats. The total study duration was 1 April 2022 to 1 July 2023. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Oocyte donors between the ages of 19 and 37 years were recruited for retrieval after informed consent, with assessment of anti-Mullerian hormone, antral follicle count, age, BMI and ovarian pathology used for inclusion and exclusion criteria. In experiment 1, 27 oocyte donors were recruited, in experiment 2, 23 oocyte donors were recruited, and in experiment 3, 17 oocyte donors and 3 sperm donors were recruited. The OSC-IVM culture condition was composed of 100 000 OSCs in suspension culture with hCG, recombinant FSH, androstenedione, and doxycycline supplementation. IVM controls lacked OSCs and contained either the same supplementation, FSH and hCG only (a commercial IVM control), or FOSCs with the same supplementation (Media control). Experiment 1 compared OSC-IVM, FOSC-IVM, and a Media control, while experiments 2 and 3 compared OSC-IVM and a commercial IVM control. Primary endpoints in the first two experiments were the MII formation (i.e. maturation) rate and morphological quality assessment. In the third experiment, the fertilization and embryo formation rates were assessed with genetic testing for aneuploidy and epigenetic quality in blastocysts. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We observed a statistically significant improvement (∼1.5×) in maturation outcomes for oocytes that underwent IVM with OSCs compared to control Media-IVM and FOSC-IVM in experiment 1. More specifically, the OSC-IVM group yielded a MII formation rate of 68% ± 6.83% SEM versus 46% ± 8.51% SEM in the Media control (P = 0.02592, unpaired t-test). FOSC-IVM yielded a 51% ± 9.23% SEM MII formation rate which did not significantly differ from the media control (P = 0.77 unpaired t-test). Additionally, OSC-IVM yielded a statistically significant ∼1.6× higher average MII formation rate at 68% ± 6.74% when compared to 43% ± 7.90% in the commercially available IVM control condition (P = 0.0349, paired t-test) in experiment 2. Oocyte morphological quality between OSC-IVM and the controls did not significantly differ. In experiment 3, OSC-IVM oocytes demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in Day 5 or 6 euploid blastocyst formation per COC compared to the commercial IVM control (25% ± 7.47% vs 11% ± 3.82%, P = 0.0349 logistic regression). Also in experiment 3, the OSC-treated oocytes generated blastocysts with similar global and germline differentially methylated region epigenetic profiles compared commercial IVM controls or blastocysts after either conventional ovarian stimulation. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION While the findings of this study are compelling, the cohort size remains limited and was powered on preliminary pilot studies, and the basic research nature of the study limits generalizability compared to randomized control trials. Additionally, use of hCG-triggered cycles results in a heterogenous oocyte cohort, and potential differences in the underlying maturation state of oocytes pre-IVM may limit or bias findings. Further research is needed to clarify and characterize the precise mechanism of action of the OSC-IVM system. Further research is also needed to establish whether these embryos are capable of implantation and further development, a key indication of their clinical utility. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Together, these findings demonstrate a novel approach to IVM with broad applicability to modern ART practice. The controls used in this study are in line with and have produced similar to findings to those in the literature, and the outcome of this study supports findings from previous co-culture studies that found benefits of primary granulosa cells on IVM outcomes. The OSC-IVM system shows promise as a highly flexible IVM approach that can complement a broad range of stimulation styles and patient populations. Particularly for patients who cannot or prefer not to undergo conventional gonadotropin stimulation, OSC-IVM may present a viable path for obtaining developmentally competent, mature oocytes. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) A.D.N., A.B.F., A.G., B.P., C.A., C.C.K., F.B., G.R., K.S.P., K.W., M.M., P.C., S.P., and M.-J.F.-G. are shareholders in the for-profit biotechnology company Gameto Inc. P.R.J.F. declares paid consultancy for Gameto Inc. P.C. also declares paid consultancy for the Scientific Advisory Board for Gameto Inc. D.H.M. has received consulting services from Granata Bio, Sanford Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, Gameto, and Buffalo IVF, and travel support from the Upper Egypt Assisted Reproduction Society. C.C.K., S.P., M.M., A.G., B.P., K.S.P., G.R., and A.D.N. are listed on a patent covering the use of OSCs for IVM: U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/492,210. Additionally, C.C.K. and K.W. are listed on three patents covering the use of OSCs for IVM: U.S. Patent Application No. 17/846,725, U.S Patent Application No. 17/846,845, and International Patent Application No.: PCT/US2023/026012. C.C.K., M.P.S., and P.C. additionally are listed on three patents for the transcription factor-directed production of granulosa-like cells from stem cells: International Patent Application No.: PCT/US2023/065140, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/326,640, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/444,108. The remaining authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Marta Sanchez
- Ruber Juan Bravo University Hospital, Eugin Group, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Pedro Belchin
- Ruber Juan Bravo University Hospital, Eugin Group, Madrid, Spain
| | - Merrick Pierson Smela
- Wyss Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Patrick R J Fortuna
- Wyss Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Pranam Chatterjee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Computer Science, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - David H McCulloh
- Gameto Inc., New York, NY, USA
- Biogenetics Corporation, Mountainside, NJ, USA
- Sperm and Embryo Bank of New York, New York, NY, USA
- Biogenetics Laboratory, Brooklyn, NY, USA
- ReproART, Georgian American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tbilisi, GA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Valtetsiotis K, Valsamakis G, Charmandari E, Vlahos NF. Metabolic Mechanisms and Potential Therapeutic Targets for Prevention of Ovarian Aging: Data from Up-to-Date Experimental Studies. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:9828. [PMID: 37372976 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24129828] [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: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Female infertility and reproduction is an ongoing and rising healthcare issue, resulting in delaying the decision to start a family. Therefore, in this review, we examine potential novel metabolic mechanisms involved in ovarian aging according to recent data and how these mechanisms may be addressed through new potential medical treatments. We examine novel medical treatments currently available based mostly on experimental stem cell procedures as well as caloric restriction (CR), hyperbaric oxygen treatment and mitochondrial transfer. Understanding the connection between metabolic and reproductive pathways has the potential to offer a significant scientific breakthrough in preventing ovarian aging and prolonging female fertility. Overall, the field of ovarian aging is an emerging field that may expand the female fertility window and perhaps even reduce the need for artificial reproductive techniques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Valtetsiotis
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aretaieion University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, 115 28 Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Valsamakis
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aretaieion University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, 115 28 Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelia Charmandari
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aretaieion University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, 115 28 Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos F Vlahos
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aretaieion University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School, 115 28 Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Jiang Y, He Y, Pan X, Wang P, Yuan X, Ma B. Advances in Oocyte Maturation In Vivo and In Vitro in Mammals. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:9059. [PMID: 37240406 PMCID: PMC10219173 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24109059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The quality and maturation of an oocyte not only play decisive roles in fertilization and embryo success, but also have long-term impacts on the later growth and development of the fetus. Female fertility declines with age, reflecting a decline in oocyte quantity. However, the meiosis of oocytes involves a complex and orderly regulatory process whose mechanisms have not yet been fully elucidated. This review therefore mainly focuses on the regulation mechanism of oocyte maturation, including folliculogenesis, oogenesis, and the interactions between granulosa cells and oocytes, plus in vitro technology and nuclear/cytoplasm maturation in oocytes. Additionally, we have reviewed advances made in the single-cell mRNA sequencing technology related to oocyte maturation in order to improve our understanding of the mechanism of oocyte maturation and to provide a theoretical basis for subsequent research into oocyte maturation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yao Jiang
- School of Medical, Molecular and Forensic Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6149, Australia
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518120, China
| | - Yingting He
- Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Xiangchun Pan
- Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Penghao Wang
- School of Medical, Molecular and Forensic Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6149, Australia
| | - Xiaolong Yuan
- Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Bin Ma
- School of Medical, Molecular and Forensic Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6149, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Loncová B, Fabová Z, Mlynček M, Sirotkin AV. Assessment of Epiregulin Effect and its Combination with Gonadotropins on Proliferation, Apoptosis, and Secretory Activity by Human Ovarian Cells. Reprod Sci 2023:10.1007/s43032-023-01205-z. [PMID: 36881337 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01205-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
The release of epidermal growth factor ligand epiregulin (EREG) by human ovarian granulosa cells, its direct action on basic ovarian cell functions, and interrelationships with gonadotropins were investigated. We examined (1) the ovarian production of EREG (the time-dependent accumulation of EREG in the medium incubated with human ovarian granulosa cells, and (2) the effect of the addition of EREG (0, 1, 10, and 100 ng.ml-1) given alone or in combination with FSH or LH (100 ng.ml-1) on basic granulosa cells functions. Viability, proliferation (accumulation of PCNA and cyclin B1) and apoptosis (accumulation of bax and caspase 3), the release of steroid hormones (progesterone, testosterone, and estradiol), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) were analyzed by using the Trypan blue exclusion test, quantitative immunocytochemistry, and ELISA. A significant time-dependent accumulation of EREG in a medium cultured with human granulosa cells with a peak at 3 and 4 days was observed. The addition of EREG alone increased cell viability, proliferation, progesterone, testosterone, and estradiol release, decreased apoptosis, bud did not affect PGE2 release. The addition of either FSH or LH alone increased cell viability, proliferation, progesterone, testosterone, estradiol, and PGE2 release and decreased apoptosis. Furthermore, both FSH and LH mostly promoted the stimulatory action of EREG on granulosa cell functions. These results demonstrated, that EREG produced by ovarian cells can be an autocrine/paracrine stimulator of human ovarian cell functions. Furthermore, they demonstrate the functional interrelationship between EREG and gonadotropins in the control of ovarian functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbora Loncová
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Constantine the Philosopher University, Tr. A. Hlinku 1, 949 74, Nitra, Slovakia.
| | - Zuzana Fabová
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Constantine the Philosopher University, Tr. A. Hlinku 1, 949 74, Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Miloš Mlynček
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Constantine the Philosopher University, Tr. A. Hlinku 1, 949 74, Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Alexander V Sirotkin
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Constantine the Philosopher University, Tr. A. Hlinku 1, 949 74, Nitra, Slovakia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Fang L, Sun YP, Cheng JC. The role of amphiregulin in ovarian function and disease. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:60. [PMID: 36749397 PMCID: PMC11071807 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04709-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Amphiregulin (AREG) is an epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like growth factor that binds exclusively to the EGF receptor (EGFR). Treatment with luteinizing hormone (LH) and/or human chorionic gonadotropin dramatically induces the expression of AREG in the granulosa cells of the preovulatory follicle. In addition, AREG is the most abundant EGFR ligand in human follicular fluid. Therefore, AREG is considered a predominant propagator that mediates LH surge-regulated ovarian functions in an autocrine and/or paracrine manner. In addition to the well-characterized stimulatory effect of LH on AREG expression, recent studies discovered that several local factors and epigenetic modifications participate in the regulation of ovarian AREG expression. Moreover, aberrant expression of AREG has recently been reported to contribute to the pathogenesis of several ovarian diseases, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome, and epithelial ovarian cancer. Furthermore, increasing evidence has elucidated new applications of AREG in assisted reproductive technology. Collectively, these studies highlight the importance of AREG in female reproductive health and disease. Understanding the normal and pathological roles of AREG and elucidating the molecular and cellular mechanisms of AREG regulation of ovarian functions will inform innovative approaches for fertility regulation and the prevention and treatment of ovarian diseases. Therefore, this review summarizes the functional roles of AREG in ovarian function and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lanlan Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Ying-Pu Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Jung-Chien Cheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Dang X, Fang L, Zhang Q, Liu B, Cheng JC, Sun YP. AREG upregulates secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine expression in human granulosa cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2023; 561:111826. [PMID: 36462647 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2022.111826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
The secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) is a secreted glycoprotein and the expression of ovarian SPARC peaks during ovulation and luteinization. Besides, SPARC expression was induced by human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in rat granulosa cells. Amphiregulin (AREG) is the most abundant epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) ligand expressed in human granulosa cells and follicular fluid. AREG mediates the physiological functions of luteinizing hormone (LH)/hCG in the ovary. However, to date, the biological function of SPARC in the human ovary remains undetermined, and whether AREG regulates SPARC expression in human granulosa cells is unknown. In this study, we show that AREG upregulated SPARC expression via EGFR in a human granulosa-like tumor cell line, KGN. Treatment of AREG activated ERK1/2, JNK, p38 MAPK, and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways and all of them were required for the AREG-induced SPARC expression. Using RNA-sequencing, we identified that steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) was a downstream target gene of SPARC. In addition, we demonstrated that SPARC mRNA levels were positively correlated with the levels of StAR mRNA in the primary culture of human granulosa cells. Moreover, SPARC protein levels were positively correlated with progesterone levels in follicular fluid of in vitro fertilization patients. This study provides the regulatory role of AREG on the expression of SPARC and reveals the novel function of SPARC in progesterone production in granulosa cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Dang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Lanlan Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Qian Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Boqun Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jung-Chien Cheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Ying-Pu Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Xia Q, Wang W, Liu Z, Xiao J, Qiao C, Zhao Y, Li B, Liu Y, Peng Y, Yang X, Shi J, Gao X, Wang D. New insights into mechanisms of berberine in alleviating reproductive disorders of polycystic ovary syndrome: Anti-inflammatory properties. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 939:175433. [PMID: 36535493 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex reproductive disorder that seriously harms female reproductive health and decreases quality of life. Although spontaneous or assisted ovulation occurs, women with PCOS suffer from poor-quality oocytes and embryos and lower fertilization and final pregnancy rates. Therefore, it is urgent to identify new pathological mechanisms and discover the underlying therapeutic targets for reproductive disorders associated with PCOS. Berberine, one of the famous traditional Chinese medicines, has been shown to improve ovulation and live birth rates in women with PCOS. The effects of berberine on insulin resistance and abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism for restoring the reproductive health of women with PCOS are well recognized and have been widely studied, but much less attention has been given to its anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic low-grade inflammation is the unifying feature of PCOS and may contribute to reproductive disorders in PCOS. Berberine can modulate the inflammatory state of the ovaries and uterus in PCOS. The anti-inflammatory properties of berberine may provide new insight into the mechanisms by which berberine alleviates reproductive disorders associated with PCOS. Here, we summarized the most recent insights into the anti-inflammatory properties of berberine in PCOS reproductive disorders to inspire researchers to pursue new study directions involving berberine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qing Xia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Zijie Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jiaying Xiao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Cong Qiao
- Department of Pathology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yu Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Bowen Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yuanli Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China; Basic Medical Institute, Heilongjiang Medical Science Academy, Harbin, China; Translational Medicine Center of Northern China, Harbin, China; Key Laboratory of Heilongjiang Province for Genetically Modified Animals, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yahui Peng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China; Basic Medical Institute, Heilongjiang Medical Science Academy, Harbin, China; Translational Medicine Center of Northern China, Harbin, China; Key Laboratory of Heilongjiang Province for Genetically Modified Animals, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xinyu Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jiabin Shi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xu Gao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China; Basic Medical Institute, Heilongjiang Medical Science Academy, Harbin, China; Translational Medicine Center of Northern China, Harbin, China; Key Laboratory of Heilongjiang Province for Genetically Modified Animals, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.
| | - Dayong Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China; Basic Medical Institute, Heilongjiang Medical Science Academy, Harbin, China; Translational Medicine Center of Northern China, Harbin, China; Key Laboratory of Heilongjiang Province for Genetically Modified Animals, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abhari S, Lu J, Hipp HS, Petritis B, Gerkowicz SA, Katler QS, Yen HH, Mao Y, Tang H, Shang W, McKenzie LJ, Smith AK, Huang RP, Knight AK. A Case-Control Study of Follicular Fluid Cytokine Profiles in Women with Diminished Ovarian Reserve. Reprod Sci 2022; 29:2515-2524. [PMID: 34738218 PMCID: PMC10201686 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00757-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian reserve is an important determinant of a woman's reproductive potential, and women with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) often seek in vitro fertilization (IVF). The underlying etiology of DOR is unknown, but follicular fluid cytokine concentrations likely play a role in follicular development and maturation. The present study seeks to investigate the expression of cytokines in follicular fluid (FF) of women with DOR undergoing IVF and explore correlated functional pathways. One hundred ninety-four women undergoing ovarian stimulation were recruited at the time of oocyte retrieval. Women were classified as having DOR if they met one or more of the following criteria: AMH < 1 ng/ml, FSH > 10 mIU/ml, and/or AFC < 10. Controls included women undergoing IVF for male factor, tubal factor due to tubal ligation, or planned oocyte cryopreservation (non-oncologic). The concentrations of 480 cytokines and related growth factors in follicular fluid were determined using a multiplex immunoassay. Fifty-nine cytokines had significantly different concentrations (53 higher and 6 lower) in the DOR relative to the control group after adjusting for age and body mass index (BMI) (false discovery rate; FDR < 0.1). Using the most informative 44 biomarkers as indicated by a random forest (RF) model, an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.78 was obtained. Thus, follicular microenvironment differs between women with DOR and normal ovarian reserve. The differentially expressed cytokines belong to diverse processes that are primarily involved in follicular maturation and ovulation. These changes may play an important role in treatment outcomes in women with DOR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sina Abhari
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Emory University School of Medicine, 550 Peachtree Street, NE Suite 1800, Atlanta, GA, 30308, USA
| | - Jingqiao Lu
- RayBiotech Life, Inc, 3607 Parkway Lane, Peachtree Corners, GA, 30092, USA
| | - Heather S Hipp
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Emory University School of Medicine, 550 Peachtree Street, NE Suite 1800, Atlanta, GA, 30308, USA
| | - Brianne Petritis
- RayBiotech Life, Inc, 3607 Parkway Lane, Peachtree Corners, GA, 30092, USA
| | | | - Quinton S Katler
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Emory University School of Medicine, 550 Peachtree Street, NE Suite 1800, Atlanta, GA, 30308, USA
| | - Haw-Han Yen
- RayBiotech Life, Inc, 3607 Parkway Lane, Peachtree Corners, GA, 30092, USA
| | - Yingqing Mao
- RayBiotech Life, Inc, 3607 Parkway Lane, Peachtree Corners, GA, 30092, USA
| | - Hao Tang
- RayBiotech Life, Inc, 3607 Parkway Lane, Peachtree Corners, GA, 30092, USA
| | - Weirong Shang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Emory University School of Medicine, 550 Peachtree Street, NE Suite 1800, Atlanta, GA, 30308, USA
| | - Laurie J McKenzie
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Alicia K Smith
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Research, Emory University School of Medicine, Woodruff Memorial Research Building, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Ruo-Pan Huang
- RayBiotech Life, Inc, 3607 Parkway Lane, Peachtree Corners, GA, 30092, USA
| | - Anna K Knight
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Research, Emory University School of Medicine, Woodruff Memorial Research Building, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zhang X, Zhao H, Li Y, Zhang Y, Liang Y, Shi J, Zhou R, Hong L, Cai G, Wu Z, Li Z. Amphiregulin Supplementation During Pig Oocyte In Vitro Maturation Enhances Subsequent Development of Cloned Embryos by Promoting Cumulus Cell Proliferation. Cell Reprogram 2022; 24:175-185. [PMID: 35861708 DOI: 10.1089/cell.2022.0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The oocyte in vitro maturation (IVM) technique is important in animal husbandry, biomedicine, and human-assisted reproduction. However, the developmental potential of in vitro matured oocytes is usually lower than that of in vivo matured (IVVM) oocytes. Amphiregulin (AREG) is an EGF-like growth factor that plays critical roles in the maturation and development of mammalian oocytes. This study investigated the effects of AREG supplementation during pig oocyte IVM on the subsequent development of cloned embryos. The addition of AREG to pig oocyte IVM medium improved the developmental competence of treated oocyte-derived cloned embryos by enhancing the expansion and proliferation of cumulus cells (CCs) during IVM. The positive effect of AREG on enhancing the quality of IVVM pig oocytes might be due to the activation of proliferation-related pathways in CCs by acting on the AREG receptor. The present study provides an AREG treatment-based method to improve the developmental competence of cloned pig embryos.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xianjun Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huaxing Zhao
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanan Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuxing Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yalin Liang
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junsong Shi
- Guangdong Wens Pig Breeding Technology Co., Ltd., Yunfu, China
| | - Rong Zhou
- Guangdong Wens Pig Breeding Technology Co., Ltd., Yunfu, China
| | - Linjun Hong
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gengyuan Cai
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenfang Wu
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zicong Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Rosario R, Cui W, Anderson RA. Potential ovarian toxicity and infertility risk following targeted anti-cancer therapies. REPRODUCTION AND FERTILITY 2022; 3:R147-R162. [PMID: 35928672 PMCID: PMC9346327 DOI: 10.1530/raf-22-0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Unlike traditional chemotherapy agents which are generally cytotoxic to all cells, targeted anti-cancer therapies are designed to specifically target proliferation mechanisms in cancer cells but spare normal cells, resulting in high potency and reduced toxicity. There has therefore been a rapid increase in their development and use in clinical settings, including in curative-intent treatment regimens. However, the targets of some of these drugs including kinases, epigenetic regulatory proteins, DNA damage repair enzymes and proteasomes, have fundamental roles in governing normal ovarian physiology. Inhibiting their action could have significant consequences for ovarian function, with potentially long-lasting adverse effects which persist after cessation of treatment, but there is limited evidence of their effects on reproductive function. In this review, we will use literature that examines these pathways to infer the potential toxicity of targeted anti-cancer drugs on the ovary. Lay summary Compared to traditional chemotherapy agents, anti-cancer therapies are thought to be highly effective at targeting cancer cells but sparing normal cells, resulting in reduced drug side effects. However, many of processes within the cells that these drugs affect are also important for the ovary to work normally, so suppressing them in this way could have long-lasting implications for female fertility. This review examines the potential toxicity of anti-cancer therapies on the ovary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roseanne Rosario
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Wanyuan Cui
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Maylem ERS, Spicer LJ. Effects of transforming growth factor β1 on steroidogenesis of feline granulosa cells cultured in vitro. Reprod Fertil Dev 2022; 34:789-797. [PMID: 35605602 DOI: 10.1071/rd22034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Little is known about the hormonal regulation of feline ovarian granulosa cell proliferation and steroidogenesis. AIMS To determine if transforming growth factor β1 (TGFB1), activin, epidermal growth factor (EGF), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), melatonin, and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) regulate granulosa cell steroidogenesis and proliferation in cats, three experiments were conducted in winter season. METHODS Granulosa cells were isolated and treated in vitro with various hormones in serum-free medium for 48h after an initial 48h plating in 10% fetal calf serum. KEY RESULTS Treatment with IGF1 and FSH increased (P<0.05) estradiol production by 2.3- and 1.33-fold, respectively. In contrast, TGFB1 blocked (P<0.05) IGF1-induced estradiol production and inhibited FSH-induced estradiol production by 60%. Combined with FSH or FSH plus IGF1, TGFB1 inhibited (P<0.05) cell proliferation, whereas TGFB1 increased progesterone production by 2.8-fold in the presence of FSH plus IGF1. EGF decreased (P<0.05) FSH plus IGF1-induced estradiol production by 89% but did not affect progesterone production or cell numbers. Activin did not affect (P>0.10) cell numbers or steroidogenesis in the presence of FSH plus IGF1. Melatonin and LH decreased (P<0.05) estradiol production 53% and 59%, respectively, without affecting progesterone production or cell proliferation. CONCLUSIONS The present study has identified TGFB1 as a major regulator of feline ovarian function, in addition to EGF, IGF1, melatonin, LH and FSH. IMPLICATIONS These studies will provide useful information for future development of fertility control in feline species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Excel R S Maylem
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Leon J Spicer
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Sciorio R, Miranian D, Smith GD. Non-invasive oocyte quality assessment. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:274-290. [PMID: 35136962 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte quality is perhaps the most important limiting factor in female fertility; however, the current methods of determining oocyte competence are only marginally capable of predicting a successful pregnancy. We aim to review the predictive value of non-invasive techniques for the assessment of human oocytes and their related cells and biofluids that pertain to their developmental competence. Investigation of the proteome, transcriptome, and hormonal makeup of follicular fluid, as well as cumulus-oocyte complexes are currently underway; however, prospective randomized non-selection-controlled trials of the future are needed before determining their prognostic value. The biological significance of polar body morphology and genetics are still unknown and the subject of debate. The predictive utility of zygotic viscoelasticity for embryo development has been demonstrated, but similar studies performed on oocytes have yet to be conducted. Metabolic profiling of culture media using human oocytes are also limited and may require integration of automated, high-throughput targeted metabolomic assessments in real time with microfluidic platforms. Light exposure to oocytes can be detrimental to subsequent development and utilization of time-lapse imaging and morphometrics of oocytes is wanting. Polarized light, Raman microspectroscopy, and coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering are a few novel imaging tools that may play a more important role in future oocyte assessment. Ultimately, the integration of chemistry, genomics, microfluidics, microscopy, physics, and other biomedical engineering technologies into the basic studies of oocyte biology, and in testing and perfecting practical solutions of oocyte evaluation, are the future for non-invasive assessment of oocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Edinburgh Assisted Conception Programme, EFREC, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Daniel Miranian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Gary D Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Physiology, Urology, and Reproductive Sciences Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Chiara Perego M, Bellitto N, Maylem ERS, Caloni F, Spicer LJ. Effects of selected hormones and their combination on progesterone and estradiol production and proliferation of feline granulosa cells cultured in vitro. Theriogenology 2021; 168:1-12. [PMID: 33826978 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Little is known about the hormonal regulation of feline ovarian granulosa cell proliferation and steroidogenesis. The present study aimed to develop a hormone responsive granulosa cell culture system to measure steroidogenic and cell proliferation responses to help identify factors that might regulate ovarian function in queens. Five experiments were conducted each with 75 or more ovaries, three in spring and two in fall seasons. Granulosa cells were isolated and treated in vitro with various hormones in serum-free medium for 48 h after an initial 48 h plating in 10% fetal calf serum. In granulosa cells isolated from spring and fall collected feline ovaries, IGF1 alone and combined with FSH stimulated (P < 0.05) cell proliferation, whereas FSH alone had no effect (P > 0.10) on cell proliferation. Also, in granulosa cells collected in spring and fall, IGF1 alone and FSH alone increased (P < 0.05) estradiol production by severalfold, and a combination of FSH and IGF1 increased (P < 0.05) estradiol production above either FSH or IGF1 treatment alone. The FSH plus IGF1 treatment increased (P < 0.05) CYP19A1 mRNA abundance by 27-fold. In contrast, EGF decreased (P < 0.05) FSH plus IGF1-induced estradiol production by over 80% in granulosa cells of both spring and fall collected ovaries. In granulosa cells isolated from spring and fall collected ovaries, IGF1 plus FSH inhibited (P < 0.05) progesterone production. Melatonin increased (P < 0.05) FSH plus IGF1-induced cell proliferation and amplified (P < 0.05) the FSH plus IGF1-induced inhibition of progesterone production. However, melatonin and GH had no effect (P > 0.10) on estradiol production either alone or in combination with FSH plus IGF1 in both spring and fall. Prolactin, FGF9 and activin had no effect (P > 0.10) on cell proliferation or steroidogenesis. FGF2 decreased (P < 0.05) estradiol production without affecting progesterone production or cell numbers. Growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) increased (P < 0.05) progesterone production but had no effect (P > 0.10) on granulosa cell proliferation or estradiol production. In conclusion, the in vitro system described herewithin may be useful to assess and evaluate ovarian function in feline species and has identified EGF, FSH and IGF1 as major regulators of feline ovarian follicular function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Chiara Perego
- Department of of Animal and Food Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, 74078, USA
| | - Nicholas Bellitto
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Excel Rio S Maylem
- Department of of Animal and Food Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, 74078, USA
| | - Francesca Caloni
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Leon J Spicer
- Department of of Animal and Food Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, 74078, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Characterization of stem cells from human ovarian follicular fluid; a potential source of autologous stem cell for cell-based therapy. Hum Cell 2021; 34:300-309. [PMID: 33543452 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-020-00439-2] [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: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Human ovarian follicular fluid (HOFF) contains proteins, extracellular matrixes necessary for growth and maturation of oocytes as well as granulosa cells. Epithelial cells and stem cells can be isolated from HOFF. However, information regarding stem cells derived from HOFF is still lacking. The objectives of the present study were to isolate, characterize, and differentiate cells derived from HOFF. HOFF was collected during the routine aspiration of oocytes in an assisted fertilization program and subjected to cell isolation, characterization, and in vitro culture. After 24 h of culture, different cell morphologies including epithelial-like-, neural-like- and fibroblast-like cells were observed. Immunocytochemistry reveals the expression of pluripotent stem cell markers (OCT4, NANOG, SSEA4), epithelial marker (CK18), FSH- and LH-receptor. For in vitro culture, the isolated cells were continuously cultured in a growth medium; alpha MEM containing 10% FBS and epidermal growth factor (EGF). After 2 weeks of in vitro culture, cells with fibroblast-like morphology dominantly grow in the culture vessels and resemble mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). HOFF-derived cells exhibited MSC expression of CD44, CD73, CD90, CD105, CD146, and STRO-1, and were capable of differentiation into osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and adipocytes. After induction of neural differentiation, HOFF-derived cells formed spheroidal structures and expressed neural stem cell markers including Nestin, β-tubulin III, and O4. Besides, the oocyte-like structure was observed after prolonged culture of HOFF. In conclusion, cells derived from follicular fluid exhibited stem cell characteristics, which could be useful for regenerative medicine applications and cell-based therapies.
Collapse
|
17
|
Lee SH, Saadeldin IM. Exosomes as a Potential Tool for Supporting Canine Oocyte Development. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10111971. [PMID: 33121043 PMCID: PMC7693116 DOI: 10.3390/ani10111971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary To date, extracellular vesicles, including exosomes, have markedly gained attention in scientific research because of their physiological homogeneity as well as stability for transporting regulatory molecules to recipient cells. Recently, it has been shown that exosomes impact gametes and embryo development in several mammalian species; however, there is still scant information on the physiological effects of exosomes on the canine reproduction system. In this regard, we elucidate the possible roles of exosomes involvement in oviduct and cumulus-oocyte complexes mutual communications and how oviduct regulates their development via molecular signaling pathways. Abstract The canine oviduct is a unique reproductive organ where the ovulated immature oocytes complete their maturation, while the other mammals ovulate matured gametes. Due to their peculiar reproductive characteristics, the in vitro maturation of dog oocytes is still not wellestablished compared with other mammals. Investigations of the microenvironment conditions in the oviductal canal are required to establish a reliable in vitro maturation system in the dog. Previous studies have suggested that the oviduct and its derivatives play a key role in improving fertilization as well as embryo development. In particular, the biological function of oviduct-derived exosomes on sperm and early embryo development has been investigated in porcine, bovine, and murine species. However, the information about their functions on canine cumulus-oocyte complexes is still elusive. Recent canine reproductive studies demonstrated how oviduct-derived extracellular vesicles such as microvesicles and exosomes interact with oocyte-cumulus complexes and how they can play roles in regulating canine cumulus/oocyte communications. In this review, we summarize the physiological characteristics of canine oviduct-derived exosomes and their potential effects on cumulus cells development as well as oocyte in vitro maturation via molecular signaling pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seok Hee Lee
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Islam M. Saadeldin
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 44511, Saudi Arabia;
- Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Bai L, Chang HM, Zhang L, Zhu YM, Leung PCK. BMP2 increases the production of BDNF through the upregulation of proBDNF and furin expression in human granulosa-lutein cells. FASEB J 2020; 34:16129-16143. [PMID: 33047388 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202000940r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Locally produced in human granulosa cells of the developing follicle, bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) plays a crucial role in the regulation of ovarian folliculogenesis and luteal formation. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is an intraovarian neurotrophic factor that has been shown to promote oocyte maturation and subsequent fertilization competency. At present, little is known regarding the intracellular regulation, assembly and secretion of endogenous BDNF in human granulosa cells. The aim of this study was to explore the effect of BMP2 on the expression and production of BDNF in human granulosa cells and the molecular mechanisms underlying this effect. An immortalized human granulosa cell line (SVOG) and primary human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells were utilized as in vitro study models. Our results showed that BMP2 significantly increased the mRNA and secreted levels of BDNF. Additionally, BMP2 upregulated the expression of furin at the transcriptional and translational levels. Knockdown of endogenous furin partially attenuated the BMP2-induced increase in BDNF production, indicating that furin is involved in the maturation process of BDNF. Using pharmacological (kinase receptor inhibitors) and siRNA-mediated inhibition approaches, we demonstrated that BMP2-induced upregulation of BDNF and furin expression is most likely mediated by the activin receptor-like kinase (ALK)2/ALK3-SMAD4 signaling pathway. Notably, analysis using clinical samples revealed that there was a positive correlation between follicular fluid concentrations of BMP2 and those of BDNF. These results indicate that BMP2 increases the production of mature BDNF by upregulating the precursor BDNF and promoting the proteolytic processing of mature BDNF. Finally, we also investigated the effects of BMP2 on ovarian steroidogenesis and the results showed that BMP2 treatment significantly increased the accumulated level of estradiol (by upregulating the expression of FSH receptor and cytochrome P450 aromatase), whereas it decreased the accumulated level of progesterone (by downregulating the expression of LH receptors and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein) in primary hGL cells. Our findings provide a novel paracrine mechanism underlying the regulation of an intraovarian growth factor in human granulosa cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Long Bai
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Liang Zhang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Zhejiang Academy of Agriculture Science, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Min Zhu
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Chandramohan Y, Jeganathan K, Sivanesan S, Koka P, Amritha TMS, Vimalraj S, Dhanasekaran A. Assessment of human ovarian follicular fluid derived mesenchymal stem cells in chitosan/PCL/Zn scaffold for bone tissue regeneration. Life Sci 2020; 264:118502. [PMID: 33031825 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Bone tissue engineering compasses the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) along with engineered biomaterial construct to augment bone regeneration. Till now, MSCs were isolated from various sources and used in cellular constructs. For the first time, in this study, MSCs were isolated from human Ovarian Follicular Fluid (OFF) and characterized by CD 44+ and CD 105+ markers via confocal microscopy and flow cytometry. Additionally, MSCs stemness, proliferation and colony-forming unit ability, multi-lineage differentiation potential were also studied. To test its suitability for bone tissue engineering applications, we grew the MSCs with the conditioned medium obtained from biocomposite scaffold by fusing a natural polymer, Chitosan (CS) and a synthetic polymer, Polycaprolactone (PCL) and the scaffold were coated with Zinc divalent ions to impart osteogenic properties. The physico-chemical characterization of scaffold, such as FTIR, XRD, and SEM studies was carried out. The biological characterization showed that the scaffolds were compatible with MSCs and promoted osteoblast differentiation which was confirmed at both cellular and molecular levels. The cellular construct increased calcium deposition, analyzed by alizarin red staining and ALP activity at cellular level. At the molecular level, the osteoblast markers expression such as Runx2 and type 1 collagen mRNAs, and osteonectin (ON) and osteocalcin (OC) secretory proteins were increased in the presence of scaffold. Overall, the current study recommends that MSCs can be easily obtained from human waste OFF, and grown in standard in vitro conditions. Successful growth of such MSCs with CS/PCL/Zn scaffold opens new avenues in utilizing the cell source for bone tissue engineering.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yamini Chandramohan
- Centre for Biotechnology, Anna University, Chennai 600 025, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Kavya Jeganathan
- Centre for Biotechnology, Anna University, Chennai 600 025, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sanjana Sivanesan
- Sri Ramchandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Pavani Koka
- Centre for Biotechnology, Anna University, Chennai 600 025, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Selvaraj Vimalraj
- Centre for Biotechnology, Anna University, Chennai 600 025, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Fang L, Yu Y, Li Y, Wang S, He J, Zhang R, Sun YP. Upregulation of AREG, EGFR, and HER2 contributes to increased VEGF expression in granulosa cells of patients with OHSS†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:426-432. [PMID: 31167229 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a serious iatrogenic complication in women undergoing induction of ovulation with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) for assisted reproductive techniques. Amphiregulin (AREG) is the most abundant epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) ligand expressed in human granulosa cells and follicular fluid and can be upregulated by luteinizing hormone (LH)/hCG. However, whether the expression levels of AREG, EGFR, and HER2 change in the granulosa cells of OHSS patients remains unknown. If it does, whether these molecules are involved in the development of OHSS requires investigation. In the present study, we showed that AREG, EGFR, and HER2 transcripts in granulosa cells as well as follicular fluid AREG proteins were elevated in OHSS patients. Increased AREG levels were associated with transcript levels and follicular content of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), the marker for OHSS pathology. Treatment of cultured granulosa cells with AREG stimulated VEGF expression and secretion, with granulosa cells from OHSS patients showing more rapid and pronounced increases than the non-OHSS group. In addition, siRNA-mediated knockdown of EGFR and AREG attenuated the hCG-induced upregulation of VEGF. This study demonstrated that granulosa cell-secreted AREG plays an important role in the development of OHSS, suggesting that the EGFR/HER2-mediated signaling could be a novel drug target for the prevention and treatment of OHSS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lanlan Fang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yiping Yu
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yiran Li
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Sijia Wang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jingyan He
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ruizhe Zhang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ying-Pu Sun
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Fang L, Yu Y, Li Y, Wang S, Zhang R, Guo Y, Li Y, Yan Y, Sun YP. Human chorionic gonadotropin-induced amphiregulin stimulates aromatase expression in human granulosa-lutein cells: a mechanism for estradiol production in the luteal phase. Hum Reprod 2020; 34:2018-2026. [PMID: 31553790 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does amphiregulin (AREG), the most abundant and important epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) ligand in the follicular fluid, regulate aromatase expression in human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells? SUMMARY ANSWER AREG mediates the hCG-induced up-regulation of aromatase expression and estradiol (E2) production in hGL cells. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY AREG expression and secretion are rapidly induced by hCG in hGL cells and mediate physiological functions of LH/hCG in the ovary. EGFR protein is expressed in follicles not only in the pre-ovulatory phase but also throughout the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. After the LH surge, the human corpus luteum secretes high levels of E2, which regulates various luteal cell functions. Aromatase is an enzyme responsible for a key step in the biosynthesis of E2. However, whether AREG regulates aromatase expression and E2 production in hGL cells remains unexplored. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This study is an experimental study performed over a 1-year period. In vitro investigations examined the role of AREG in the regulation of aromatase expression and E2 production in primary hGL cells. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Primary hGL cells were obtained from women undergoing IVF treatment in an academic research center. Aromatase mRNA and protein levels were examined after exposure of hGL cells to recombinant human AREG, hCG or LH. The EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor AG1478, PI3K inhibitor LY294002 and siRNAs targeting EGFR, LH receptor, StAR and AREG were used to verify the specificity of the effects and to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms. Reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) and western blot were used to measure the specific mRNA and protein levels, respectively. Follicular fluid and serum were collected from 65 infertile women during IVF treatment. Pearson's correlation analysis was performed to examine the correlation coefficient between two values. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Treatment of hGL cells with AREG-stimulated aromatase expression and E2 production. Using pharmacological inhibitors and specific siRNAs, we revealed that AREG-stimulated aromatase expression and E2 production via EGFR-mediated activation of the protein kinase B (AKT) signaling pathway. In addition, inhibition of EGFR activity and AREG knockdown attenuated hCG-induced up-regulation of aromatase expression and E2 production. Importantly, the protein levels of AREG in the follicular fluid were positively correlated with the E2 levels in serum after 2 days of oocyte pick-up and in the follicular fluid of IVF patients. LARGE-SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The in vitro setting of this study is a limitation that may not reflect the real intra-ovarian microenvironment. Clinical data were obtained from a small sample size. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our results provide the first evidence that hCG-induced AREG contributes to aromatase expression and E2 production in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. A better understanding of the hormonal regulation of female reproductive function may help to develop new strategies for the treatment of clinical infertility. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China for Young Scientists (81601253), the specific fund of clinical medical research of Chinese Medical Association (16020160632) and the Foundation from the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University for Young Scientists to Lanlan Fang. This work was also supported by an operating grant from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (81820108016) to Ying-Pu Sun. All authors declare no conflict of interest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lanlan Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yiping Yu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yiran Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Sijia Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Ruizhe Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yanjie Guo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yuxi Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yang Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Ying-Pu Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Pella R, Suárez-Cunza S, Orihuela P, Escudero F, Pérez Y, García M, Zorrilla I, Berrío P, Romero S. Oxidative balance in follicular fluid of ART patients of advanced maternal age and blastocyst formation. JBRA Assist Reprod 2020; 24:296-301. [PMID: 32159933 PMCID: PMC7365547 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20200012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the follicular fluid oxidative balance of infertile patients of advanced-maternal-age and the correlation between oxidative imbalance in the follicular fluid and the embryological outcomes. METHODS Follicular fluid (FF) from infertile patients of advanced-maternal-age undergoing ART treatments were collected and frozen in cryovials at -86°C until further use, and analyzed at the Biochemistry and Nutrition Institute of San Marcos University. As controls, we used FF from oocyte donors. The FF was then assayed for oxidative balance by ABTS, FRAP and TBARS assays. In order to establish the correlation between oxidative balance and embryo quality, we correlated the number of usable blastocysts (freshly transferred or frozen blastocysts) with the results from ABTS, FRAP and TBARS. RESULTS Follicular fluid from patients of Advanced-maternal-age (AMA group) significantly differed from the values found in the control group; the ABTS value was higher and the FRAP value was lower, in comparison to the FF from oocyte donors (control group). The lipid peroxidation was not different between those two groups. Furthermore, there was no significant correlation among the results of the assays, or when correlated with the proportion of usable blastocysts. CONCLUSION Ovarian oxidative balance seems to be critical for oocyte quality in advanced-maternal-age patients; however, we still need more studies on oxidative stress indicators, on a larger set of patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Pella
- Centro de Fertilidad y Reproducción Asistida CEFRA, Lima, Peru
| | - Silvia Suárez-Cunza
- Instituto de Bioquímica y Nutrición, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Peru
| | | | | | - Ygor Pérez
- Centro de Fertilidad y Reproducción Asistida CEFRA, Lima, Peru
| | - Mario García
- Centro de Fertilidad y Reproducción Asistida CEFRA, Lima, Peru
| | - Ingrid Zorrilla
- Centro de Fertilidad y Reproducción Asistida CEFRA, Lima, Peru
| | - Paola Berrío
- Centro de Fertilidad y Reproducción Asistida CEFRA, Lima, Peru
| | - Sergio Romero
- Centro de Fertilidad y Reproducción Asistida CEFRA, Lima, Peru
- Laboratorio de Biología Reproductiva y Preservación de la Fertilidad, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Yang Z, Tang Z, Cao X, Xie Q, Hu C, Zhong Z, Tan J, Zheng Y. Controlling chronic low-grade inflammation to improve follicle development and survival. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 84:e13265. [PMID: 32395847 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2020] [Revised: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic low-grade inflammation is one cause of follicle development disturbance. Chronic inflammation exists in pathological conditions such as premature ovarian failure, physiological aging of the ovaries, and polycystic ovary syndrome. Inflammation of the whole body can affect oocytes via the follicle microenvironment, oxidative stress, and GM-CSF. Many substances without toxic side-effects extracted from natural organisms have gradually gained researchers' attention. Recently, chitosan oligosaccharide, resveratrol, anthocyanin, and melatonin have been found to contribute to an improvement in inflammation. This review discusses the interrelationships between chronic low-grade inflammation and follicle development, the underlying mechanisms, and methods that may improve follicle development by controlling the level of chronic low-grade inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ziwei Yang
- Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Zijuan Tang
- Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiuping Cao
- Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Qi Xie
- Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Chuan Hu
- Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.,The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Zhisheng Zhong
- Reproductive Health Department, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jun Tan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, China
| | - Yuehui Zheng
- Reproductive Health Department, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Moulavi F, Akram RT, Khorshid Sokhangouy S, Hosseini SM. Platelet rich plasma efficiently substitutes the beneficial effects of serum during in vitro oocyte maturation and helps maintain the mitochondrial activity of maturing oocytes. Growth Factors 2020; 38:152-166. [PMID: 33739231 DOI: 10.1080/08977194.2021.1900168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Platelets contain most of the potent mitogenic factors present in serum and follicular fluid and intraovarian injection of autologous platelet rich plasma (PRP) was shown to improve ovarian function and development of preantral follicles. This study evaluated the effect of PRP on caprine oocyte maturation in vitro and subsequent fertilization and embryonic development. Cumulus oocyte complexes were cultured in a maturation medium supplemented with (1) fetal bovine serum (FBS, control), (2) PRP, extracted from healthy female goats, (3) polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and (4) PVA plus PRP (PVA-PRP). The degree of cumulus expansion was scored, and denuded oocytes were used for assessment of nuclear maturation, mitochondrial activity, lipid content, redox status, yield and quality of in vitro embryo development, and cryosurvival of the resulting blastocysts. PRP supported the same beneficial effects of FBS on cumulus expansion, nuclear maturation, in vitro developmental competence of oocytes, and survival of vitrified-warmed blastocysts. Moreover, PRP protected oocytes from undesirable effects FBS exerted on the mitochondrial activity and intracytoplasmic lipid content of maturing oocyte. Although PVA could support the same beneficial effects of neither FBS nor PRP on oocyte maturation, its combined addition with PRP improved the yield and quality of oocyte maturation at rates closely similar to PRP. PRP efficiently substitutes beneficial effects of serum during in vitro oocyte maturation and helps maintain the mitochondrial activity of maturing oocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Moulavi
- Department of Embryology, Advanced Reproductive Technologies Centre, CARTC, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - R T Akram
- Department of Embryology, Advanced Reproductive Technologies Centre, CARTC, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - S Khorshid Sokhangouy
- Department of Embryology, Advanced Reproductive Technologies Centre, CARTC, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - S M Hosseini
- Department of Embryology, Advanced Reproductive Technologies Centre, CARTC, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Luteinizing Hormone Action in Human Oocyte Maturation and Quality: Signaling Pathways, Regulation, and Clinical Impact. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:1223-1252. [PMID: 32046451 PMCID: PMC7190682 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-019-00137-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The ovarian follicle luteinizing hormone (LH) signaling molecules that regulate oocyte meiotic maturation have recently been identified. The LH signal reduces preovulatory follicle cyclic nucleotide levels which releases oocytes from the first meiotic arrest. In the ovarian follicle, the LH signal reduces cyclic nucleotide levels via the CNP/NPR2 system, the EGF/EGF receptor network, and follicle/oocyte gap junctions. In the oocyte, reduced cyclic nucleotide levels activate the maturation promoting factor (MPF). The activated MPF induces chromosome segregation and completion of the first and second meiotic divisions. The purpose of this paper is to present an overview of the current understanding of human LH signaling regulation of oocyte meiotic maturation by identifying and integrating the human studies on this topic. We found 89 human studies in the literature that identified 24 LH follicle/oocyte signaling proteins. These studies show that human oocyte meiotic maturation is regulated by the same proteins that regulate animal oocyte meiotic maturation. We also found that these LH signaling pathway molecules regulate human oocyte quality and subsequent embryo quality. Remarkably, in vitro maturation (IVM) prematuration culture (PMC) protocols that manipulate the LH signaling pathway improve human oocyte quality of cultured human oocytes. This knowledge has improved clinical human IVM efficiency which may become a routine alternative ART for some infertile patients.
Collapse
|
26
|
Extracellular Vesicles in Human Oogenesis and Implantation. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20092162. [PMID: 31052401 PMCID: PMC6539954 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20092162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Revised: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Reproduction, the ability to generate offspring, represents one of the most important biological processes, being essential for the conservation of the species. In mammals, it involves different cell types, tissues and organs, which, by several signaling molecules, coordinate the different events such as gametogenesis, fertilization and embryo development. In the last few years, the role of Extracellular Vesicles, as mediators of cell communication, has been investigated in every phase of these complex processes. Microvesicles and exosomes, identified in the fluid of ovarian follicles during egg maturation, are involved in communication between the developing oocyte and the somatic follicular cells. More recently, it has been demonstrated that, during implantation, Extracellular Vesicles could participate in the complex dialog between the embryo and maternal tissues. In this review, we will focus our attention on extracellular vesicles and their cargo in human female reproduction, mainly underlining the involvement of microRNAs in intercellular communication during the several phases of the reproductive process.
Collapse
|
27
|
|
28
|
Puttabyatappa M, Padmanabhan V. Ovarian and Extra-Ovarian Mediators in the Development of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. J Mol Endocrinol 2018; 61:R161-R184. [PMID: 29941488 PMCID: PMC6192837 DOI: 10.1530/jme-18-0079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age. The origin of PCOS is still not clear and appears to be a function of gene x environment interactions. This review addresses the current knowledge of the genetic and developmental contributions to the etiology of PCOS, the ovarian and extra-ovarian mediators of PCOS and the gaps and key challenges that need to be addressed in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of PCOS.
Collapse
|
29
|
Follicular fluid and supernatant from cultured cumulus-granulosa cells improve in vitro maturation in patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Fertil Steril 2018; 110:710-719. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.04.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2017] [Revised: 04/24/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
|
30
|
Cui L, Fang L, Mao X, Chang HM, Leung PCK, Ye Y. GDNF-Induced Downregulation of miR-145-5p Enhances Human Oocyte Maturation and Cumulus Cell Viability. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2018; 103:2510-2521. [PMID: 29897461 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2017-02742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Although glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and microRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to regulate mammalian oocyte maturation, little is known about their effects on human oocyte maturation and the underlying molecular mechanisms. OBJECTIVES To examine the effects of GDNF on both nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation in cultured immature human oocytes and to investigate the involvement of miRNAs in GDNF-induced oocyte maturation. DESIGN A total of 200 human immature oocytes were used to evaluate the effects of GDNF on oocyte maturation. The involvement of miRNAs in GDNF-induced oocyte maturation was identified by comparing the miRNA expression profiles of cumulus cells (CCs) either with or without GDNF stimulation. SETTING An in vitro fertilization center at the Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine. METHODS Agilent human miRNA (8*60K) arrays were used to examine the miRNA expression patterns of human CCs either with or without GDNF stimulation. miR-145-5p inhibitor and mimic transfections were performed to study downstream gene expression in human CCs. RESULTS During the in vitro maturation process, GDNF significantly increased the percentage of metaphase II-stage oocytes and downregulated the expression of miR-145-5p in cultured human CCs. Expression of miR-145-5p in CCs is negatively correlated with oocyte maturation. miR-145-5p mimic significantly decreased the expression of GDNF family receptor-α1, ret proto-oncogene, and epidermal growth factor receptor, whereas miR-145-5p inhibitor reversed these effects. GDNF treatment inhibited cell apoptosis in cultured CCs, and this suppressive effect was reversed by transfection with the miR-145-5p mimic. CONCLUSION Downregulation of miR-145-5p may contribute to GDNF-induced enhancement of oocyte maturation and of cell viability against cell apoptosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Long Cui
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Li Fang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaodan Mao
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia and British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia and British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Yinghui Ye
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Betacellulin induces Slug-mediated down-regulation of E-cadherin and cell migration in ovarian cancer cells. Oncotarget 2018; 7:28881-90. [PMID: 27129169 PMCID: PMC5045363 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.7591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2015] [Accepted: 01/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death among gynaecological cancers. Previous studies have demonstrated that epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) ligands can induce ovarian cancer cell invasion by down-regulating E-cadherin. Betacellulin is a unique member of the EGF family. It is overexpressed in a variety of cancers and is associated with reduced survival. However, the biological functions and clinical significance of betacellulin in ovarian cancer remain unknown. In the current study, we tested the hypothesis that betacellulin induces ovarian cancer cell migration by suppressing E-cadherin expression. Treatment of SKOV3 and OVCAR5 ovarian cancer cell lines with betacellulin down-regulated E-cadherin, but not N-cadherin. In addition, betacellulin treatment increased the expression of Snail and Slug, and these effects were completely blocked by pre-treatment with EGFR inhibitor AG1478. Interestingly, only knockdown of Slug reversed the down-regulation of E-cadherin by betacellulin. Betacellulin treatment induced the activation of both the MEK-ERK and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways, and it also significantly increased ovarian cancer cell migration. Importantly, the effects of betacellulin on E-cadherin, Slug and cell migration were attenuated by pre-treatment with either U0126 or LY294002. Our results suggest that betacellulin induces ovarian cancer migration and Slug-dependent E-cadherin down-regulation via EGFR-mediated MEK-ERK and PI3K-Akt signaling.
Collapse
|
32
|
Wu Y, Lin J, Han B, Wang L, Chen Y, Liu M, Huang J. Proteomic profiling of follicle fluids after superstimulation in one-month-old lambs. Reprod Domest Anim 2017; 53:186-194. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.13091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2016] [Accepted: 09/09/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Y Wu
- Xinjiang Academy of Animal Science; Biotechnology Research Institute; Xinjiang China
| | - J Lin
- Xinjiang Academy of Animal Science; Biotechnology Research Institute; Xinjiang China
| | - B Han
- Xinjiang Academy of Animal Science; Biotechnology Research Institute; Xinjiang China
| | - L Wang
- Xinjiang Academy of Animal Science; Biotechnology Research Institute; Xinjiang China
| | - Y Chen
- Xinjiang Academy of Animal Science; Biotechnology Research Institute; Xinjiang China
| | - M Liu
- Xinjiang Academy of Animal Science; Biotechnology Research Institute; Xinjiang China
| | - J Huang
- Xinjiang Academy of Animal Science; Biotechnology Research Institute; Xinjiang China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Arur S. Signaling-Mediated Regulation of Meiotic Prophase I and Transition During Oogenesis. Results Probl Cell Differ 2017; 59:101-123. [PMID: 28247047 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-44820-6_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Generation of healthy oocytes requires coordinated regulation of multiple cellular events and signaling pathways. Oocytes undergo a unique developmental growth and differentiation pattern interspersed with long periods of arrest. Oocytes from almost all species arrest in prophase I of oogenesis that allows for long period of growth and differentiation essential for normal oocyte development. Depending on species, oocytes that transit from prophase I to meiosis I also arrest at meiosis I for fairly long periods of time and then undergo a second arrest at meiosis II that is completed upon fertilization. While there are species-specific differences in C. elegans, D. melanogaster, and mammalian oocytes in stages of prophase I, meiosis I, or meiosis II arrest, in all cases cell signaling pathways coordinate the developmental events controlling oocyte growth and differentiation to regulate these crucial phases of transition. In particular, the ERK MAP kinase signaling pathway, cyclic AMP second messengers, and the cell cycle regulators CDK1/cyclin B are key signaling pathways that seem evolutionarily conserved in their control of oocyte growth and meiotic maturation across species. Here, I identify the common themes and differences in the regulation of key meiotic events during oocyte growth and maturation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Swathi Arur
- Department of Genetics, UT M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
LaVoie HA. Transcriptional control of genes mediating ovarian follicular growth, differentiation, and steroidogenesis in pigs. Mol Reprod Dev 2017; 84:788-801. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2017] [Revised: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Holly A. LaVoie
- Deptartment of Cell Biology and AnatomyUniversity of South Carolina School of MedicineColumbiaSouth Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Revelli A, Carosso A, Grassi G, Gennarelli G, Canosa S, Benedetto C. Empty follicle syndrome revisited: definition, incidence, aetiology, early diagnosis and treatment. Reprod Biomed Online 2017; 35:132-138. [PMID: 28596003 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2017.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2016] [Revised: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In this review, the definition, incidence and possible causes of empty follicle syndrome (EFS), including molecular mechanisms that may underlie the syndrome, are discussed, along with prevention and treatment options. EFS is the complete failure to retrieve oocytes after ovarian stimulation, despite apparently normal follicle development and adequate follicular steroidogenesis. Two variants of EFS have been described: the 'genuine' form (gEFS), which occurs in the presence of adequate circulating HCG levels at the time of oocyte aspiration, and the 'false' form (f-EFS), which is associated with circulating HCG below a critical threshold. Heterogeneous HCG concentration thresholds, however, have been used to define gEFS, and to date no standardization exist. The situation is unclear when GnRH-analogues are used for ovulation trigger, as the threshold circulating LH and progesterone levels used to define EFS as 'genuine' are not established. The cause of fEFS has been clearly identified as an error in HCG administration at the time of ovulation trigger; in contrast, the cause of gEFS is still unclear, although some pathogenetic hypotheses have been proposed. Optimal treatment and prognosis of these patients are still poorly understood. Large, systematic multi-centre studies are needed to increase the understanding of EFS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Revelli
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Torino, Via Ventimiglia 3, 10126 Torino, Italy.
| | - Andrea Carosso
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Torino, Via Ventimiglia 3, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Grassi
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Torino, Via Ventimiglia 3, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Gianluca Gennarelli
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Torino, Via Ventimiglia 3, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Stefano Canosa
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Torino, Via Ventimiglia 3, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Chiara Benedetto
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Torino, Via Ventimiglia 3, 10126 Torino, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Kim YY, Tamadon A, Ku SY. Potential Use of Antiapoptotic Proteins and Noncoding RNAs for EfficientIn VitroFollicular Maturation and Ovarian Bioengineering. TISSUE ENGINEERING PART B-REVIEWS 2017; 23:142-158. [DOI: 10.1089/ten.teb.2016.0156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yoon Young Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Amin Tamadon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seung-Yup Ku
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Protocol for Exosome Isolation from Small Volume of Ovarian Follicular Fluid: Evaluation of Ultracentrifugation and Commercial Kits. Methods Mol Biol 2017; 1660:321-341. [PMID: 28828668 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7253-1_26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The ovarian follicular fluid (FF) is a complex fluid that constitutes the microenvironment of developing follicles and contains factors secreted by the surrounding cells and blood plasma compounds that cross the "blood-follicle barrier." Upon oocyte retrieval (in human, bovine, and equine) the follicular fluid is normally discarded and represents a repertoire of cellular messages exchanged during follicle development, thus providing a suitable sample for performing oocyte quality diagnostics. Several studies report on the presence of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in FF from human, bovine and equine. Here, we describe the process of FF collection from human and bovine and the enrichment and isolation of EVs that we termed folliculosomes (FFEs), using available commercial kits as well as the traditional ultracentrifugation methods.
Collapse
|
38
|
Chang HM, Qiao J, Leung PCK. Oocyte-somatic cell interactions in the human ovary-novel role of bone morphogenetic proteins and growth differentiation factors. Hum Reprod Update 2016; 23:1-18. [PMID: 27797914 PMCID: PMC5155571 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmw039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Revised: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Initially identified for their capability to induce heterotopic bone formation,
bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are multifunctional growth factors that belong
to the transforming growth factor β superfamily. Using cellular and
molecular genetic approaches, recent studies have implicated intra-ovarian BMPs as
potent regulators of ovarian follicular function. The bi-directional communication
of oocytes and the surrounding somatic cells is mandatory for normal follicle
development and oocyte maturation. This review summarizes the current knowledge on
the physiological role and molecular determinants of these ovarian regulatory
factors within the human germline-somatic regulatory loop. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The regulation of ovarian function remains poorly characterized in humans because,
while the fundamental process of follicular development and oocyte maturation is
highly similar across species, most information on the regulation of ovarian
function is obtained from studies using rodent models. Thus, this review focuses
on the studies that used human biological materials to gain knowledge about human
ovarian biology and disorders and to develop strategies for preventing, diagnosing
and treating these abnormalities. SEARCH METHODS Relevant English-language publications describing the roles of BMPs or growth
differentiation factors (GDFs) in human ovarian biology and phenotypes were
comprehensively searched using PubMed and the Google Scholar database. The
publications included those published since the initial identification of BMPs in
the mammalian ovary in 1999 through July 2016. OUTCOMES Studies using human biological materials have revealed the expression of BMPs,
GDFs and their putative receptors as well as their molecular signaling in the
fundamental cells (oocyte, cumulus/granulosa cells (GCs) and theca/stroma cells)
of the ovarian follicles throughout follicle development. With the availability of
recombinant human BMPs/GDFs and the development of immortalized human cell lines,
functional studies have demonstrated the physiological role of intra-ovarian
BMPs/GDFs in all aspects of ovarian functions, from follicle development to
steroidogenesis, cell–cell communication, oocyte maturation, ovulation and
luteal function. Furthermore, there is crosstalk between these potent ovarian
regulators and the endocrine signaling system. Dysregulation or naturally
occurring mutations within the BMP system may lead to several female reproductive
diseases. The latest development of recombinant BMPs, synthetic BMP inhibitors,
gene therapy and tools for BMP-ligand sequestration has made the BMP pathway a
potential therapeutic target in certain human fertility disorders; however,
further clinical trials are needed. Recent studies have indicated that GDF8 is an
intra-ovarian factor that may play a novel role in regulating ovarian functions in
the human ovary. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Intra-ovarian BMPs/GDFs are critical regulators of folliculogenesis and human
ovarian functions. Any dysregulation or variations in these ligands or their
receptors may affect the related intracellular signaling and influence ovarian
functions, which accounts for several reproductive pathologies and infertility.
Understanding the normal and pathological roles of intra-ovarian BMPs/GDFs,
especially as related to GC functions and follicular fluid levels, will inform
innovative approaches to fertility regulation and improve the diagnosis and
treatment of ovarian disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, 49 North Garden Rd., Haidian District, Beijing 100191, P.R. China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 West 28 Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V5Z 4H4
| | - Jie Qiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, 49 North Garden Rd., Haidian District, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 West 28 Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V5Z 4H4
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Proteome Profile and Quantitative Proteomic Analysis of Buffalo (Bubalusbubalis) Follicular Fluid during Follicle Development. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17050618. [PMID: 27136540 PMCID: PMC4881444 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17050618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Revised: 04/11/2016] [Accepted: 04/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicular fluid (FF) accumulates in the antrum of the ovarian follicle and provides the microenvironment for oocyte development. FF plays an important role in follicle growth and oocyte maturation. The FF provides a unique window to investigate the processes occurring during buffalo follicular development. The observed low quality of buffalo oocytes may arise from the poor follicular microenvironment. Investigating proteins found in buffalo FF (BFF) should provide insight into follicular development processes and provide further understanding of intra-follicular maturation and oocytes quality. Here, a proteomic-based approach was used to analyze the proteome of BFF. SDS-PAGE separation combined with mass spectrometry was used to generate the proteomic dataset. In total, 363 proteins were identified and classified by Gene Ontology terms. The proteins were assigned to 153 pathways, including signaling pathways. To evaluate difference in proteins expressed between BFF with different follicle size (small, <4 mm; and large, >8 mm), a quantitative proteomic analysis based on multi-dimensional liquid chromatography pre-fractionation tandem Orbitrap mass spectrometry identification was performed. Eleven differentially expressed proteins (six downregulated and five upregulated in large BFF) were identified and assigned to a variety of functional processes, including serine protease inhibition, oxidation protection and the complement cascade system. Three differentially expressed proteins, Vimentin, Peroxiredoxin-1 and SERPIND1, were verified by Western blotting, consistent with the quantitative proteomics results. Our datasets offers new information about proteins present in BFF and should facilitate the development of new biomarkers. These differentially expressed proteins illuminate the size-dependent protein changes in follicle microenvironment.
Collapse
|
40
|
Fang L, Yu Y, Zhang R, He J, Sun YP. Amphiregulin mediates hCG-induced StAR expression and progesterone production in human granulosa cells. Sci Rep 2016; 6:24917. [PMID: 27113901 PMCID: PMC4845069 DOI: 10.1038/srep24917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Progesterone plays critical roles in maintaining a successful pregnancy at the early embryonic stage. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) rapidly induces amphiregulin (AREG) expression. However, it remains unknown whether AREG mediates hCG-induced progesterone production. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the role of AREG in hCG-induced progesterone production and the underlying molecular mechanism in human granulosa cells; primary cells were used as the experimental model. We demonstrated that the inhibition of EGFR and the knockdown of AREG abolished hCG-induced steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) expression and progesterone production. Importantly, follicular fluid AREG levels were positively correlated with progesterone levels in the follicular fluid and serum. Treatment with AREG increased StAR expression and progesterone production, and these stimulatory effects were abolished by EGFR inhibition. Moreover, activation of ERK1/2, but not PI3K/Akt, signaling was required for the AREG-induced up-regulation of StAR expression and progesterone production. Our results demonstrate that AREG mediates hCG-induced StAR expression and progesterone production in human granulosa cells, providing novel evidence for the role of AREG in the regulation of steroidogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lanlan Fang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Yiping Yu
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Ruizhe Zhang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Jingyan He
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Ying-Pu Sun
- Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Yang CR, Lowther KM, Lalioti MD, Seli E. Embryonic Poly(A)-Binding Protein (EPAB) Is Required for Granulosa Cell EGF Signaling and Cumulus Expansion in Female Mice. Endocrinology 2016; 157:405-16. [PMID: 26492470 PMCID: PMC4701890 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-1135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Embryonic poly(A)-binding protein (EPAB) is the predominant poly(A)-binding protein in Xenopus, mouse, and human oocytes and early embryos before zygotic genome activation. EPAB is required for translational activation of maternally stored mRNAs in the oocyte and Epab(-/-) female mice are infertile due to impaired oocyte maturation, cumulus expansion, and ovulation. The aim of this study was to characterize the mechanism of follicular somatic cell dysfunction in Epab(-/-) mice. Using a coculture system of oocytectomized cumulus oophorus complexes (OOXs) with denuded oocytes, we found that when wild-type OOXs were cocultured with Epab(-/-) oocytes, or when Epab(-/-) OOXs were cocultured with WT oocytes, cumulus expansion failed to occur in response to epidermal growth factor (EGF). This finding suggests that oocytes and cumulus cells (CCs) from Epab(-/-) mice fail to send and receive the necessary signals required for cumulus expansion. The abnormalities in Epab(-/-) CCs are not due to lower expression of the oocyte-derived factors growth differentiation factor 9 or bone morphogenetic protein 15, because Epab(-/-) oocytes express these proteins at comparable levels with WT. Epab(-/-) granulosa cells (GCs) exhibit decreased levels of phosphorylated MEK1/2, ERK1/2, and p90 ribosomal S6 kinase in response to lutenizing hormone and EGF treatment, as well as decreased phosphorylation of the EGF receptor. In conclusion, EPAB, which is oocyte specific, is required for the ability of CCs and GCs to become responsive to LH and EGF signaling. These results emphasize the importance of oocyte-somatic communication for GC and CC function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cai-Rong Yang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510
| | - Katie M Lowther
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510
| | - Maria D Lalioti
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510
| | - Emre Seli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Zamah AM, Hassis ME, Albertolle ME, Williams KE. Proteomic analysis of human follicular fluid from fertile women. Clin Proteomics 2015; 12:5. [PMID: 25838815 PMCID: PMC4357057 DOI: 10.1186/s12014-015-9077-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2014] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Follicular fluid is a unique biological fluid in which the critical events of oocyte and follicular maturation and somatic cell-germ cell communication occur. Because of the intimate proximity of follicular fluid to the maturing oocyte, this fluid provides a unique window into the processes occurring during follicular maturation. A thorough identification of the specific components within follicular fluid may provide a better understanding of intrafollicular signaling, as well as reveal potential biomarkers of oocyte health for women undergoing assisted reproductive treatment. In this study, we used high and low pH HPLC peptide separations followed by mass spectrometry to perform a comprehensive proteomic analysis of human follicular fluid from healthy ovum donors. Next, using samples from a second set of patients, an isobaric mass tagging strategy for quantitative analysis was used to identify proteins with altered abundances after hCG treatment. Results A total of 742 follicular fluid proteins were identified in healthy ovum donors, including 413 that have not been previously reported. The proteins belong to diverse functional groups including insulin growth factor and insulin growth factor binding protein families, growth factor and related proteins, receptor signaling, defense/immunity, anti-apoptotic proteins, matrix metalloprotease related proteins, and complement activity. In a quantitative analysis, follicular fluid samples from age-matched women undergoing in vitro fertilization oocyte retrieval were compared and 17 follicular fluid proteins were found at significantly altered levels (p < 0.05) between pre-hCG and post-hCG samples. These proteins belong to a variety of functional processes, including protease inhibition, inflammation, and cell adhesion. Conclusions This database of FF proteins significantly extends the known protein components present during the peri-ovulatory period and provides a useful basis for future studies comparing follicular fluid proteomes in various fertility, disease, and environmental exposure conditions. We identified 17 differentially expressed proteins after hCG treatment and together these data showed the feasibility for defining biomarkers that illuminate how the ovarian follicle microenvironment is altered in various infertility-related conditions. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12014-015-9077-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alberuni M Zamah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Maria E Hassis
- Sandler-Moore Mass Spectrometry Core Facility, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA
| | - Matthew E Albertolle
- Sandler-Moore Mass Spectrometry Core Facility, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA
| | - Katherine E Williams
- Sandler-Moore Mass Spectrometry Core Facility, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA ; Center for Reproductive Sciences and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143 USA
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Abstract
The bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) family consists of several growth factor proteins that belong to the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily. BMPs bind to type I and type II serine-threonine kinase receptors, and transduce signals through the Smad signalling pathway. BMPs have been identified in mammalian ovaries, and functional studies have shown that they are involved in the regulation of oogenesis and folliculogenesis. This review summarizes the role of the BMP system during formation, growth and maturation of ovarian follicles in mammals.
Collapse
|
44
|
Kuwabara Y, Katayama A, Tomiyama R, Piao H, Kurihara S, Ono S, Mine K, Akira S, Orimo H, Takeshita T. Gonadotropin regulation and role of ovarian osteopontin in the periovulatory period. J Endocrinol 2015; 224:49-59. [PMID: 25352284 DOI: 10.1530/joe-14-0203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Osteopontin (OPN), a secreted glycoprotein, has multiple physiological functions. This study investigated the regulation and roles of OPN in the mouse ovary during the periovulatory stages. Immature female mice were treated with pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) to simulate follicle maturation and ovulation. In situ hybridization and real-time RT-PCR were performed to assess expression of Opn in the periovulatory ovary. Granulosa cells (GCs) from PMSG-primed immature mice were cultured with or without hCG in the presence or absence of OPN, and effects on expression of Opn, progesterone synthesis, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling were assessed by real-time RT-PCR, ELISA, and western blotting analysis. Opn transcripts were significantly upregulated 3 h after hCG treatment, followed by a peak at 16 h, and the transcripts localized to GCs. Incubation with hCG significantly increased quantities of Opn transcripts in GCs and OPN levels in the culture medium at 12 and 24 h. Furthermore, OPN treatment caused a significant increase in the levels of Star protein, P 450 cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (p450scc), 3-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (Hsd3b), and progesterone in the culture medium. OPN treatment promoted Vegf expression in GCs, which was significantly suppressed by a phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor. In addition, OPN treatment stimulated phosphorylation of AKT, a downstream PI3K signaling molecule. In conclusion, expression of Opn was upregulated in mouse ovarian GCs in response to a gonadotropin surge through epidermal growth factor receptor signaling, which enhances progesterone synthesis and Vegf expression during the early-luteal phase.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoshimitsu Kuwabara
- Departments of Obstetrics and GynecologyBiochemistry and Molecular BiologyNippon Medical School, 1-1-5, Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8603, Japan
| | - Akira Katayama
- Departments of Obstetrics and GynecologyBiochemistry and Molecular BiologyNippon Medical School, 1-1-5, Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8603, Japan
| | - Ryoko Tomiyama
- Departments of Obstetrics and GynecologyBiochemistry and Molecular BiologyNippon Medical School, 1-1-5, Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8603, Japan
| | - Hu Piao
- Departments of Obstetrics and GynecologyBiochemistry and Molecular BiologyNippon Medical School, 1-1-5, Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8603, Japan
| | - Sachiko Kurihara
- Departments of Obstetrics and GynecologyBiochemistry and Molecular BiologyNippon Medical School, 1-1-5, Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8603, Japan Departments of Obstetrics and GynecologyBiochemistry and Molecular BiologyNippon Medical School, 1-1-5, Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8603, Japan
| | - Shuichi Ono
- Departments of Obstetrics and GynecologyBiochemistry and Molecular BiologyNippon Medical School, 1-1-5, Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8603, Japan
| | - Katsuya Mine
- Departments of Obstetrics and GynecologyBiochemistry and Molecular BiologyNippon Medical School, 1-1-5, Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8603, Japan
| | - Shigeo Akira
- Departments of Obstetrics and GynecologyBiochemistry and Molecular BiologyNippon Medical School, 1-1-5, Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8603, Japan
| | - Hideo Orimo
- Departments of Obstetrics and GynecologyBiochemistry and Molecular BiologyNippon Medical School, 1-1-5, Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8603, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Takeshita
- Departments of Obstetrics and GynecologyBiochemistry and Molecular BiologyNippon Medical School, 1-1-5, Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8603, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Kubo N, Cayo-Colca IS, Miyano T. Effect of estradiol-17β during in vitro growth culture on the growth, maturation, cumulus expansion and development of porcine oocytes from early antral follicles. Anim Sci J 2014; 86:251-9. [PMID: 25410821 DOI: 10.1111/asj.12283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2014] [Accepted: 06/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Growing porcine oocytes from early antral follicles can acquire meiotic and developmental competence under suitable culture conditions, but at lower rates compared to full-grown oocytes. We postulated that estradiol-17β (E2 ) supported the acquisition of meiotic and developmental competence as well as cumulus-expansion ability during growth culture. Growing oocytes from early antral follicles (1.2 to 1.5 mm in diameter) were grown in vitro for 5 days in a medium containing 0, 10(-7) , 10(-6) , 10(-5) or 10(-4) mol/L E2 ; after in vitro maturation, 35, 58, 47, 74 and 49% of oocytes matured to metaphase II, 25, 79, 77, 90 and 97% acquired cumulus-expansion ability, and 23, 54, 63, 89 and 64% were fully surrounded by cumulus cells, respectively. Following maturation, electro-stimulation was applied to the oocytes grown with 10(-5) mol/L E2 . After 6 days of culture, in vitro-grown oocytes developed to the blastocyst stage at a rate similar to that for full-grown oocytes (31% and 40%, respectively). Therefore, we suggest that the use of E2 during growth culture improves the meiotic and developmental competence of oocytes, cumulus-expansion ability, and cumulus cell attachment to the oocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naoko Kubo
- Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Pan H, Cui H, Liu S, Qian Y, Wu H, Li L, Guan Y, Guan X, Zhang L, Fan HY, Ma Y, Li R, Liu M, Li D. Lgr4 gene regulates corpus luteum maturation through modulation of the WNT-mediated EGFR-ERK signaling pathway. Endocrinology 2014; 155:3624-37. [PMID: 24877628 DOI: 10.1210/en.2013-2183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Luteal-phase insufficiency is one of the major causes of female infertility, but the molecular mechanisms are still largely unknown. Here we found that disruption of Lgr4/Gpr48, the newly identified receptor for R-spondins, greatly reduced female fertility in mice. The expression of Lgr4 was induced specifically in granulosa-lutein cells during luteinization. In Lgr4-deficient female mice, the estrous cycle was prolonged and serum progesterone levels were dramatically downregulated. In Lgr4(-/-) corpora lutea, the expression of key enzymes for steroidogenesis as well as common luteal marker genes was significantly decreased. Additionally, the activity of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-ERK signaling was attenuated in Lgr4(-/-) granulosa-lutein cells. We found that the maturation of Lgr4(-/-) cells was impaired in cultured primary granulosa cells, but the defect was partially rescued by reactivation of EGFR signaling by heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor treatment. We found that the expression of wingless-type MMTV integration site family (WNT)/catenin (cadherin associated protein), beta 1 (CTNNB1) downstream targets, including matrix metalloproteinase 9, which is a critical matrix metalloproteinase for activation of EGF-like factors, was significantly downregulated in Lgr4(-/-) ovaries. Matrix metalloproteinase 9 inhibitor treatment attenuated human chorionic gonadotropin- but not heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor-induced ERK activation and luteinization in primary granulosa cells. Together, we report that Lgr4 modulates WNT-mediated EGFR-ERK signaling to facilitate corpus luteum maturation and ovarian steroidogenesis to maintain female reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongjie Pan
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology (H.P., H.C., S.L., Y.Q., H.W., L.L., Y.G., X.G., L.Z., M.L., D.L.), Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; Key Laboratory of Contraceptive Drugs and Devices of National Population and Family Planning Commission (H.P., R.L.), Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Shanghai 200032, China; Life Science Institute (H.-Y.F.), Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research (Y.M.), Hainan Reproductive Medical Center, the Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou 570102, China; and The Institute of Biosciences and Technology (M.L.), Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Sessions-Bresnahan DR, Carnevale EM. The effect of equine metabolic syndrome on the ovarian follicular environment. J Anim Sci 2014; 92:1485-94. [PMID: 24663160 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2013-7275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity in many species is associated with reduced fertility and increased risk of metabolic disorders and cardiovascular dysfunction in offspring. Equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) is associated with obesity and characterized by insulin resistance, decreased adiponectin, and elevated insulin, leptin, and pro-inflammatory cytokines. These alterations can potentially disrupt follicular development and impair fertility. We hypothesized that mares with EMS have an altered follicular environment when compared to their normal counterparts, affecting gene regulation for follicle and oocyte maturation. Samples were collected from light-horse mares (11 to 27 yr) in a clinical assisted reproductive program. Mares were screened based on phenotype. Insulin sensitivity was determined by using two proxies, the reciprocal of the square root of insulin (RISQI) and the modified insulin-to-glucose ratio (MIRG). Insulin resistant mares (RISQI < 0.32 and MIRG > 5.50) were allocated to the EMS group (n = 8), and the remaining mares were considered normal controls (CON, n = 12). Follicular fluid (FF) and granulosa cells (GC) from preovulatory follicles were aspirated 24 ± 2 h after administration of a GnRH analog (SucroMate, 0.9 to 1.4 mg, i.m.) and hCG (Chorion, 1500 to 2000 IU, i.v.). After an overnight fast, blood was collected on the morning of follicle aspiration to evaluate serum concentrations of insulin, leptin, adiponectin, and inflammatory cytokines. Expression of 32 genes related to metabolism, follicle maturation, and oocyte maturation were assessed in GC. Concentrations of insulin, leptin, adiponectin, and cytokines were highly correlated between serum and FF (P < 0.001). Insulin was lower (P < 0.001) in serum and FF of CON compared to EMS, but leptin and IL1β tended (P = 0.07 and P = 0.10, respectively) to be lower in FF of CON than EMS. Tumor necrosis factor-α in serum and FF was lower (P < 0.07 and P < 0.05, respectively) in CON than EMS. Conversely, adiponectin was higher (P < 0.05) in serum and FF in CON versus EMS. In GC from CON when compared to EMS, gene expression for epiregulin was elevated (P < 0.05) and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-2 tended to be lower (P = 0.09). Our findings demonstrate that the intrafollicular environment in the mare is influenced by metabolic disease, consistent with findings in other species. Influences on follicular development, oocyte maturation, and subsequent offspring by perturbations due to metabolic disease need further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D R Sessions-Bresnahan
- Equine Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins 80523
| | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Fragouli E, Lalioti MD, Wells D. The transcriptome of follicular cells: biological insights and clinical implications for the treatment of infertility. Hum Reprod Update 2013; 20:1-11. [PMID: 24082041 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmt044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oocyte maturation is under strict regulatory control, not only from intrinsic cellular processes, but also extrinsic influences. While the oocyte is directly connected to the surrounding cumulus cells (CCs) via a network of gap junctions facilitating communication and exchange of molecules, it is also influenced by the greater follicular environment. In order to produce an oocyte capable of successfully transmitting the female genetic material and able to support the earliest stages of preimplantation development, cytoplasmic and nuclear maturation must be achieved. Granulosa and CCs play an essential role in the maturation and competence acquisition of the developing oocyte. The fact that these cells are closely associated with the oocyte, share the same microenvironment and can be easily collected during IVF procedures makes them attractive targets for basic research and the development of clinically relevant assays. Analysis of follicular cells is likely to reveal important information concerning the viability and genetic constitution of their associated oocyte, as well as increase our understanding of normal follicular processes and the impact of disorders or of medical interventions such as controlled ovarian stimulation (COS). This review summarizes results obtained during the investigation of granulosa and CCs, and considers the possibilities of using follicular cells as surrogate markers of stimulation response during IVF, oocyte/embryo competence and clinical outcome. METHODS In order to summarize the current knowledge obtained from the analysis of follicular cells, a thorough literature search was carried out. Relevant research articles published in English up to March 2013 were reviewed. RESULTS Multiple groups of genes expressed in follicular cells have been identified as possible indicators of ovulation, oocyte maturity, fertilization, chromosome status, ability to generate embryos capable of reaching the blastocyst stage of development, embryo morphology and the establishment of a pregnancy. However, there is a general lack of uniformity concerning groups of gene biomarkers among different studies. CONCLUSIONS Extensive investigation of genes and proteins of granulosa and CCs has provided a detailed insight into the follicular microenvironment surrounding oocytes. It was evident from the data reviewed that the gene expression of follicular cells influences and is influenced by the oocyte, affecting factors such as maturity, chromosomal constitution, viability and competence. However, a general lack of overlap among genes identified as potentially useful biomarkers suggests that the transcriptome of follicular cells could be affected by multiple intrinsic factors, having to do with the patient and possibly the aetiology of infertility, as well as extrinsic factors, such as hormonal stimulation. Further work is required in order to establish a universally applicable, non-invasive test for the determination of oocyte competence based upon follicular cell assessment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elpida Fragouli
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Assidi M, Richard FJ, Sirard MA. FSH in vitro versus LH in vivo: similar genomic effects on the cumulus. J Ovarian Res 2013; 6:68. [PMID: 24066945 PMCID: PMC3852229 DOI: 10.1186/1757-2215-6-68] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2013] [Accepted: 09/17/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of gonadotropins to trigger oocyte maturation both in vivo and in vitro has provided precious and powerful knowledge that has significantly increased our understanding of the ovarian function. Moreover, the efficacy of most assisted reproductive technologies (ART) used in both humans and livestock species relies on gonadotropin input, mainly FSH and LH. Despite the significant progress achieved and the huge impact of gonadotropins, the exact molecular pathways of the two pituitary hormones, FSH and LH, still remain poorly understood. Moreover, these pathways may not be the same when moving from the in vivo to the in vitro context. This misunderstanding of the intricate synergy between these two hormones leads to a lack of consensus about their use mainly in vitro or in ovulation induction schedules in vivo. In order to optimize their use, additional work is thus required with a special focus on comparing the in vitro versus the in vivo effects. In this context, this overview will briefly summarize the downstream gene expression pathways induced by both FSH in vitro and LH in vivo in the cumulus compartment. Based on recent microarray comparative analysis, we are reporting that in vitro FSH stimulation on cumulus cells appears to achieve at least part of the gene expression activity after in vivo LH stimulation. We are then proposing that the in vitro FSH-response of cumulus cells have similitudes with the in vivo LH-response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mourad Assidi
- Département des Sciences Animales, Faculté de l'Agriculture et de l'Alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1K 7P4, Canada.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Chung CK, Ge W. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) induces MAPK3/1 phosphorylation in the zebrafish ovarian follicle cells independent of EGF/EGFR pathway. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2013; 188:251-7. [PMID: 23644153 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2013.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2013] [Accepted: 04/15/2013] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a luteinizing hormone (LH) analogue, induces MAPK3/1 phosphorylation in the granulosa cells and this event is largely dependent on epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) activity. However, whether this mechanism also works in other vertebrates such as fish remains unknown. Here, we showed that treatment of cultured zebrafish ovarian follicle cells with hCG also resulted in MAPK3/1 phosphorylation without affecting the total protein level of MAPK3/1. The phosphorylation level peaked at 5 min and then declined to the basal level after 40 min of hCG treatment. Further experiment showed that H89 (a PKA inhibitor) could abolish hCG-stimulated MAPK3/1 phosphorylation, but had no effect on EGF-induced phosphorylation, suggesting a mediating role for cAMP/PKA in hCG activation of MAPK3/1. On the other hand, AG1478 (an EGFR inhibitor) completely blocked EGF-stimulated MAPK3/1 phosphorylation, but had no effect on the hCG-induced MAPK3/1 phosphorylation. These data indicate that similar to its action in mammals, hCG/LH also stimulated MAPK3/1 phosphorylation in the zebrafish ovarian follicle cells; however, unlike the situation in the mammalian ovary, the hCG-stimulated MAPK3/1 phosphorylation in cultured zebrafish ovarian follicle cells was independent of EGFR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Kin Chung
- School of Life Sciences and Centre for Cell and Developmental Biology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | | |
Collapse
|