1
|
Fazeli A, Godakumara K. The evolving roles of extracellular vesicles in embryo-maternal communication. Commun Biol 2024; 7:754. [PMID: 38906986 PMCID: PMC11192758 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06442-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Mammalian reproduction relies on precise maternal-fetal communication, wherein immune modifications foster tolerance toward the semi-allogeneic embryo. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), including exosomes and microvesicles, have emerged as crucial mediators, transporting molecules like microRNAs securely. EVs influence various reproductive stages, from gamete maturation to implantation, and impact pathologies like pregnancy loss. In the embryo-maternal dialogue, EVs notably affect oviductal interactions, gene expression, and the embryo-endometrial interface, crucial for successful implantation. Key queries persist about EV uptake, cargo delivery, and the specific biomolecules driving communication. Their potential in diagnostics, therapeutics, and understanding environmental impacts on fertility signals an exciting future, reliant on collaborative efforts for transformative strides in reproductive health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Fazeli
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia.
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tartu University, Tartu, Estonia.
- Division of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine & Population Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK.
| | - Kasun Godakumara
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Miles JR, Walsh SC, Rempel LA, Pannier AK. Mechanisms regulating the initiation of porcine conceptus elongation. Mol Reprod Dev 2023; 90:646-657. [PMID: 35719060 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Significant increases in litter size within commercial swine production over the past decades have led to increases in preweaning piglet mortality due to increase within-litter birthweight variation, typically due to mortality of the smallest littermate piglets. Therefore, identifying mechanisms to reduce variation in placental development and subsequent fetal growth are critical to normalizing birthweight variation and improving piglet survivability in high-producing commercial pigs. A major contributing factor to induction of within-litter variation occurs during the peri-implantation period as the pig blastocyst elongates from spherical to filamentous morphology in a short period of time and rapidly begins superficial implantation. During this period, there is significant within-litter variation in the timing and extent of elongation among littermates. As a result, delays and deficiencies in conceptus elongation not only contribute directly to early embryonic mortality, but also influence subsequent within-litter birthweight variation. This study will highlight key aspects of conceptus elongation and provide some recent evidence pertaining to specific mechanisms from -omics studies (i.e., metabolomics of the uterine environment and transcriptomics of the conceptus) that may specifically regulate the initiation of conceptus elongation to identify potential factors to reduce within-litter variation and improve piglet survivability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy R Miles
- USDA, U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC), Clay Center, Nebraska, USA
| | - Sophie C Walsh
- Department of Biological Systems Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| | - Lea A Rempel
- USDA, U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC), Clay Center, Nebraska, USA
| | - Angela K Pannier
- Department of Biological Systems Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Expression profile of genes related to pregnancy maintenance in Dromedary Camel during the first trimester. Anim Reprod Sci 2023; 251:107211. [PMID: 36990016 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2023.107211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
So far, few signals involved in embryo-maternal dialogue have been identified in pregnant she-camel. Our objective was to investigate expression profiles of genes relevant to uterine extracellular matrix remodeling (ITGB4, SLCO2A1, FOS, and JUN), uterine tissue vascularization, and placental formation (VEGFA, PGF, and PDGFA), embryonic growth and development (IGF1 and PTEN), plus cell death of uterine tissue (BCL2) in early pregnant versus non-pregnant she-camels. Forty genital tracts (20 pregnant and 20 non-pregnant) and blood samples were collected from abattoirs. Total RNA was extracted from uterine tissues and qRT-PCR was conducted for candidate genes. Serum concentrations of progesterone (P4) and estradiol17-β (E2) were measured. Expression of ITGB4, FOS, and PGF genes increased (P < 0.001) in the right uterine horn of pregnant versus non-pregnant she-camels. Moreover, JUN, SLCO2A1, VEGFA, and PTEN mRNAs were up-regulated (P < 0.001) in various segments of uterine tissues in pregnant groups. The PDGFA transcript was over-expressed (P < 0.001) in both uterine horns of pregnant groups. Additionally, IGF1 was higher (P < 0.001) in the right horn and the uterine body of pregnant groups, and expression of BCL2 was increased (P < 0.001) in the pregnant uterine body. Moreover, serum concentrations of P4 were higher (P < 0.001) and E2 lower (P < 0.05) in pregnant she-camels. Taken together, the fine-tuning of genes related to implantation, matrix formation, vascularization, and placental formation is highly required for successful pregnancy in she-camels.
Collapse
|
4
|
Godakumara K, Dissanayake K, Hasan MM, Kodithuwakku SP, Fazeli A. Role of extracellular vesicles in intercellular communication during reproduction. Reprod Domest Anim 2022; 57 Suppl 5:14-21. [PMID: 35837748 PMCID: PMC9796405 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The mammalian reproduction is a process of controlled cellular growth and development regulated by constant communication between the gametes, the subsequent embryo and the maternal system. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are involved in these communications to a significant degree from the gamete production and maturation to fertilization, embryo development and implantation. They regulate the cellular physiology and the immune reaction to bring about a favourable environment for a successful pregnancy. Deciphering the mechanisms employed in EV-mediated embryo maternal communication could improve our knowledge in mammalian reproduction and increase the efficiency of animal breeding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kasun Godakumara
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational MedicineFaculty of Medicine, Tartu UniversityTartuEstonia,Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal SciencesEstonian University of Life SciencesTartuEstonia
| | - Keerthie Dissanayake
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational MedicineFaculty of Medicine, Tartu UniversityTartuEstonia,Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal SciencesEstonian University of Life SciencesTartuEstonia,Department of Anatomy, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of PeradeniyaPeradeniyaSri Lanka
| | - Mohammad Mehedi Hasan
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational MedicineFaculty of Medicine, Tartu UniversityTartuEstonia,Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal SciencesEstonian University of Life SciencesTartuEstonia,Maternal and Fetal Medicine Department, Institute of Women's HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Suranga. P. Kodithuwakku
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal SciencesEstonian University of Life SciencesTartuEstonia,Department of Animal Science, Faculty of AgricultureUniversity of PeradeniyaPeradeniyaSri Lanka
| | - Alireza Fazeli
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational MedicineFaculty of Medicine, Tartu UniversityTartuEstonia,Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal SciencesEstonian University of Life SciencesTartuEstonia,Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental MedicineThe University of SheffieldSheffieldUK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mészárosová M, Mészáros G, Moravčíková N, Pavlík I, Margetín M, Kasarda R. Within- and between-Breed Selection Signatures in the Original and Improved Valachian Sheep. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12111346. [PMID: 35681809 PMCID: PMC9179888 DOI: 10.3390/ani12111346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study explored the genomic diversity and selection signatures in two Slovakian national breeds, the Original Valachian and the Improved Valachian sheep. As they are an important animal genetic resource within the country, but with decreasing population size, our aim is to identify potentially valuable genomic regions. A total of 97 sheep (18 male and 79 female) from the Original Valachian, and 69 sheep (25 male and 44 female) from the Improved Valachian populations were genotyped using the GeneSeek GGP Ovine 50 K chip. The inbreeding levels were assessed with runs of homozygosity (ROH). The selection signatures within breeds were identified based on the top 1% of most homozygous regions within the breed, the so-called ROH islands. The selection signatures between breeds were assessed based on variance in linkage disequilibrium. Overall, we have identified selection signatures with quantitative trait loci (QTL) and genes pointing towards all three production purposes of the Valachian sheep, milk, meat, and wool, including their quality characteristics. Another group with apparent large importance was the various traits related to health and resistance to parasites, which is well in line with the sturdy nature of this breed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mária Mészárosová
- Faculty of Agrobiology and Food Resources, Institute of Nutrition and Genomics, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 94976 Nitra, Slovakia; (M.M.); (R.K.)
| | - Gábor Mészáros
- Department of Sustainable Agricultural Systems, Division of Livestock Sciences, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Gregor-Mendel-Straße 33, 1180 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Nina Moravčíková
- Faculty of Agrobiology and Food Resources, Institute of Nutrition and Genomics, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 94976 Nitra, Slovakia; (M.M.); (R.K.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Ivan Pavlík
- Research Institute of Animal Production—NPPC Slovakia, Hlohovecká 2, 95141 Nitra—Lužianky, Slovakia;
| | - Milan Margetín
- Faculty of Agrobiology and Food Resources, Institute of Animal Science, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 94976 Nitra, Slovakia;
| | - Radovan Kasarda
- Faculty of Agrobiology and Food Resources, Institute of Nutrition and Genomics, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 94976 Nitra, Slovakia; (M.M.); (R.K.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Su Y, Li Q, Zhang Q, Li Z, Yao X, Guo Y, Xiao L, Wang X, Ni H. Exosomes derived from placental trophoblast cells regulate endometrial epithelial receptivity in dairy cows during pregnancy. J Reprod Dev 2021; 68:21-29. [PMID: 34690214 PMCID: PMC8872746 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2021-077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Inadequate fetomaternal interactions could directly lead to pregnancy failure in dairy cows. Exosomes are widely involved in endometrial matrix remodeling, immune function changes,
placental development, and other processes of embryo implantation and pregnancy in dairy cows. However, the role of exosomes derived from placental trophoblast cells in regulating the
receptivity of endometrial cells and facilitating fetomaternal interaction remains unclear. In this study, bovine trophoblast cells (BTCs) were obtained from bovine placenta and immortalized
by transfection with telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT). Immortalized BTCs still possess the basic and key properties of primary BTCs without exhibiting any neoplastic transformation
signs. Subsequently, the effect of trophoblast-derived exosomes (TDEs) on endometrial receptivity in endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) was determined, and the mechanism whereby TDEs and
their proteins participate in the fetomaternal interaction during bovine pregnancy were explored. EECs were co-cultured with the exosomes derived from BTCs treated with progesterone (P4).
Such treatment enhanced the expression of the endometrial receptivity factors, integrin αv, β3, Wnt7a, and MUC1 by changing the extracellular environment, metabolism, and redox balance in
EECs via proteome alignment, compared with no treatment according to the DIA quantitation analysis. Our study demonstrated that trophoblast-derived exosome proteins are one of the most
critical elements in fetomaternal interaction, and their changes may act as a key signal in altering endometrial receptivity and provide a potential target for improving fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue Su
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Qianru Li
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Qiaochu Zhang
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Zhiming Li
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Xinxin Yao
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Yong Guo
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Longfei Xiao
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Xiangguo Wang
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Hemin Ni
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Schabmeyer ST, Kneidl AM, Schneider JK, Kirsch S, Zablotski Y, Petzl W, Weber F, Zerbe H, Meyerholz MM. Concentration-Dependent Type 1 Interferon-Induced Regulation of MX1 and FABP3 in Bovine Endometrial Explants. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:262. [PMID: 33494350 PMCID: PMC7912598 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The inadequate maternal recognition of embryonic interferon τ (IFNτ) might explain subfertility in cattle. This study aimed at modeling the inducibility of type 1 interferon receptor subunits 1/2 (IFNAR1/2), mimicking competition between IFNτ and infection-associated interferon α (IFNα), and simulating type 1 interferon pathways in vitro. Endometrial explants (n = 728 from n = 26 healthy uteri) were collected at the abattoir, challenged with IFNτ and/or IFNα in different concentrations, and incubated for 24 h. Gene expression analysis confirmed the inducibility of IFNAR1/2 within this model, it being most prominent in IFNAR2 with 10 ng/mL IFNα (p = 0.001). The upregulation of interferon-induced GTP-binding protein (MX1, classical pathway) was higher in explants treated with 300 ng/mL compared to 10 ng/mL IFNτ (p < 0.0001), whereas the non‑classical candidate fatty acid binding protein 3 (FABP3) exhibited significant downregulation comparing 300 ng/mL to 10 ng/mL IFNτ. The comparison of explants challenged with IFNτ + IFNα indicated the competition of IFNτ and IFNα downstream of the regulatory factors. In conclusion, using this well-defined explant model, interactions between infection-associated signals and IFNτ were indicated. This model can be applied to verify these findings and to mimic and explore the embryo-maternal contact zone in more detail.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Marie Margarete Meyerholz
- Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine Ludwig Maximilians University Munich, 85764 Oberschleissheim, Germany; (S.T.S.); (A.M.K.); (J.K.S.); (S.K.); (Y.Z.); (W.P.); (F.W.); (H.Z.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Gershoni M, Ezra E, Weller JI. Genetic and genomic analysis of long insemination interval in Israeli dairy cattle as an indicator of early abortions. J Dairy Sci 2020; 103:4495-4509. [PMID: 32113774 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-17482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
One of the causes of observed low fertility is embryo loss after fertilization. Previous findings suggested that more than half of fertilizations result in embryo loss before pregnancy is detected. We proposed reinsemination between 49 and 100 d after the first insemination as an indicator trait for early abortion (EA) in dairy cattle based on the mean estrus interval of 21 d. This trait was compared with conception rate from first insemination and conception status, computed as the inverse of the number of inseminations to conception. Animal model variance components were estimated by REML, including parents and grandparents of cows with records. First-parity heritability for first insemination conception rate was 3%. In the multitrait analysis of parities 1 to 3 for putative EA, heritabilities ranged from 8.9% for first parity to 10.4% for second parity. All genetic correlations were >0.9, whereas all environmental correlations were <0.12. The variance component for the service sire effect for putative EA rate was less than half the variance component for conception rate. Thus, genetic control of the 2 traits is clearly different, and analysis of EA rate by a single-trait animal model is justified. Genetic evaluation for putative EA was computed using this model, including all first- through third-parity cows with freshening dates from January 1, 1985, through December 31, 2016, that either became pregnant on first insemination or were reinseminated between 49 and 100 d after the first insemination. All known parents and grandparents of cows with records were included in the analysis. The regression of the breeding value for non-abortion rate on the cows' birth year was 0.083%/yr. The genetic correlation between first-parity EA and conception status was 0.995. The genetic correlations between first-parity EA and milk, fat, and protein production were all negative, whereas the genetic correlation between EA and herd life was 0.33. Inclusion of putative EA in the selection index instead of conception status resulted in 10 to 20% greater genetic gain for both fertility traits. In a genome-wide association study based on 1,200 dairy bulls with reliabilities >50% for abortion rate genotyped for 41,000 markers, 6 markers were found with nominal probabilities of <10-12 to reject the null hypothesis of no effect on EA rate. The markers with the lowest probabilities for EA rate were also included among the markers with the lowest probabilities for female fertility, but not vice versa. The marker explaining the most variance for abortion rate is located within the ABCA9 gene, which is found within an ATP-binding cassette (ABC) genes cluster. The ABC family is the major class of primary active transporters in the placenta.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Moran Gershoni
- Department of Ruminant Science, Institute of Animal Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, the Volcani Center, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel
| | - Ephraim Ezra
- Israeli Cattle Breeders Association, Caesarea Industrial Park 3088900, Israel
| | - Joel Ira Weller
- Department of Ruminant Science, Institute of Animal Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, the Volcani Center, Rishon LeZion 7505101, Israel; Israeli Cattle Breeders Association, Caesarea Industrial Park 3088900, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Menegat MB, DeRouchey JM, Woodworth JC, Dritz SS, Tokach MD, Goodband RD. Effects of Bacillus subtilis C-3102 on sow and progeny performance, fecal consistency, and fecal microbes during gestation, lactation, and nursery periods1,2. J Anim Sci 2019; 97:3920-3937. [PMID: 31292631 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skz236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This study evaluated the effects of providing a dietary probiotic, Bacillus subtilis C-3102, to sows during gestation and lactation and to progeny after weaning on performance, fecal consistency, and fecal microbes. For the sow portion of the study, 29 sows and litters were used from day 30 of gestation until weaning. Sow treatments consisted of control diet or probiotic diet with B. subtilis C-3102 at 500,000 cfu/g of gestation feed and 1,000,000 cfu/g of lactation feed. For the nursery portion of the study, 358 weaned pigs, progeny of sows on study, were used in a 42-d nursery study. Nursery treatments consisted of control diet or probiotic diet with B. subtilis C-3102 and prebiotics at 500,000 cfu/g of nursery feed. Treatments were arranged in a split-plot design with sow treatment (control or probiotic diet) as main plot and nursery treatment (control or probiotic diet) as subplot. Performance, fecal consistency by fecal score method, and fecal microbes by isolation and enumeration method were assessed. In lactation, probiotic-fed sows tended (P = 0.057) to have increased feed intake, but it did not improve (P > 0.05) sow or litter performance in lactation. In the nursery, there were no (P > 0.10) interactions or main effects of sow or nursery treatments on overall growth performance. However, pigs born from control-fed sows had greater (P < 0.05) average daily gain, average daily feed intake, and body weight in late nursery than pigs born from probiotic-fed sows. Fecal score evaluation of nursing and nursery pigs indicated no influence (P > 0.05) of sow or nursery treatments on fecal consistency. Fecal microbial analysis revealed a modest modification in fecal microbial population by increasing (P < 0.05) the number of total Bacillus sp. in probiotic-fed sows and nursery pigs. Nursing piglets born from probiotic-fed sows carried over (P < 0.05) this modification in fecal microbial population preweaning. In conclusion, providing a probiotic based on B. subtilis C-3102 to sows during gestation and lactation and to progeny after weaning did not elicit noteworthy improvements in performance or fecal consistency, but there was a benefit on sow lactation feed intake. Fecal microbial analysis indicated a maternal-progeny intestinal microbiota relationship with pigs born from probiotic-fed sows displaying similar fecal microbial population as sows. However, pigs born from probiotic-fed sows demonstrated reduced growth rate and feed consumption in late nursery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana B Menegat
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS
| | - Joel M DeRouchey
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, College of Agriculture, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS
| | - Jason C Woodworth
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, College of Agriculture, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS
| | - Steve S Dritz
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS
| | - Mike D Tokach
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, College of Agriculture, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS
| | - Robert D Goodband
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, College of Agriculture, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Gómez E, Sánchez-Calabuig MJ, Martin D, Carrocera S, Murillo A, Correia-Alvarez E, Herrero P, Canela N, Gutiérrez-Adán A, Ulbrich S, Muñoz M. In vitro cultured bovine endometrial cells recognize embryonic sex. Theriogenology 2017; 108:176-184. [PMID: 29223655 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.11.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2017] [Revised: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Endometrial cell co-culture (ECC) with single embryo may reflect endometrium responses in vivo. Bovine Day-6 in vitro-produced morulae were cultured until Day-8 in modified synthetic oviductal fluid (mSOF), or on the epithelial side of ECC. Expression of epithelial- and stromal-cell transcripts was analyzed by RT-PCR in ECC with one male (ME) or female embryo (FE). Concentrations of ARTEMIN (ARTN) and total protein were determined in epithelial cell-conditioned medium. ECCs yielded embryos with more cells in the inner cell mass than embryos cultured in mSOF. Embryos altered transcript expression only in epithelial cells, not in stromal ones. Thus, ME induced larger reductions than FE and controls (i.e., no embryos cultured) in hexose transporter solute carrier family 2 member 1 (SLC2A1) and member 5 (SLC2A5), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), artemin (ARTN), and interferon alpha and beta receptors subunit IFNAR1 and IFNAR2. FE reduced SLC2A1 and SLC2A5, and increased ARTN expression with respect to controls. ME tended to reduce total protein concentration (P < 0.082) in ECC-conditioned medium, while ARTN protein and gene expressions strongly correlated (R > 0.90; P < 0.05) in the group of ME or FE, but not in controls (without embryo). Isolated male and female embryos may differentially release signaling factors that induce sexually dimorphic responses in endometrial cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Gómez
- Genética y Reproducción Animal, Centro de Biotecnología Animal, SERIDA, Camino de Rioseco 1225, 33394 Gijón, Spain.
| | - M J Sánchez-Calabuig
- Departamento de Medicina y Cirugía Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense, Av. Puerta de Hierro, s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - D Martin
- Genética y Reproducción Animal, Centro de Biotecnología Animal, SERIDA, Camino de Rioseco 1225, 33394 Gijón, Spain
| | - S Carrocera
- Genética y Reproducción Animal, Centro de Biotecnología Animal, SERIDA, Camino de Rioseco 1225, 33394 Gijón, Spain
| | - A Murillo
- Genética y Reproducción Animal, Centro de Biotecnología Animal, SERIDA, Camino de Rioseco 1225, 33394 Gijón, Spain
| | - E Correia-Alvarez
- Genética y Reproducción Animal, Centro de Biotecnología Animal, SERIDA, Camino de Rioseco 1225, 33394 Gijón, Spain
| | - P Herrero
- Centre for OMIC Sciences, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Reus, Tarragona, Spain
| | - N Canela
- Centre for OMIC Sciences, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Reus, Tarragona, Spain
| | - A Gutiérrez-Adán
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, INIA, Avda. Puerta de Hierro, n°12, local 10, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - S Ulbrich
- ETH Zurich, Animal Physiology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Switzerland
| | - M Muñoz
- Genética y Reproducción Animal, Centro de Biotecnología Animal, SERIDA, Camino de Rioseco 1225, 33394 Gijón, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Almiñana C, Corbin E, Tsikis G, Alcântara-Neto AS, Labas V, Reynaud K, Galio L, Uzbekov R, Garanina AS, Druart X, Mermillod P. Oviduct extracellular vesicles protein content and their role during oviduct-embryo cross-talk. Reproduction 2017. [PMID: 28630101 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Successful pregnancy requires an appropriate communication between the mother and the embryo. Recently, exosomes and microvesicles, both membrane-bound extracellular vesicles (EVs) present in the oviduct fluid have been proposed as key modulators of this unique cross-talk. However, little is known about their content and their role during oviduct-embryo dialog. Given the known differences in secretions by in vivo and in vitro oviduct epithelial cells (OEC), we aimed at deciphering the oviduct EVs protein content from both sources. Moreover, we analyzed their functional effect on embryo development. Our study demonstrated for the first time the substantial differences between in vivo and in vitro oviduct EVs secretion/content. Mass spectrometry analysis identified 319 proteins in EVs, from which 186 were differentially expressed when in vivo and in vitro EVs were compared (P < 0.01). Interestingly, 97 were exclusively expressed in in vivo EVs, 47 were present only in in vitro and 175 were common. Functional analysis revealed key proteins involved in sperm-oocyte binding, fertilization and embryo development, some of them lacking in in vitro EVs. Moreover, we showed that in vitro-produced embryos were able to internalize in vivo EVs during culture with a functional effect in the embryo development. In vivo EVs increased blastocyst rate, extended embryo survival over time and improved embryo quality. Our study provides the first characterization of oviduct EVs, increasing our understanding of the role of oviduct EVs as modulators of gamete/embryo-oviduct interactions. Moreover, our results point them as promising tools to improve embryo development and survival under in vitro conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Almiñana
- UMR0085 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA)/CNRS/Univ. Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Emilie Corbin
- UMR0085 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA)/CNRS/Univ. Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Guillaume Tsikis
- UMR0085 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA)/CNRS/Univ. Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Agostinho S Alcântara-Neto
- UMR0085 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA)/CNRS/Univ. Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Valérie Labas
- UMR0085 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA)/CNRS/Univ. Tours, Nouzilly, France.,UFRCHU, Pôle d'Imagerie de la Plate-forme de Chirurgie et Imagerie pour la Recherche et l'Enseignement (CIRE), INRA Nouzilly, France
| | - Karine Reynaud
- UMR0085 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA)/CNRS/Univ. Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Laurent Galio
- UMR1198Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, INRA Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Rustem Uzbekov
- Laboratoire Biologie Cellulaire et Microscopie ElectroniqueFaculté de Médecine, Université François Rabelais, Tours, France.,Faculty of Bioengineering and BioinformaticsMoscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Anastasiia S Garanina
- Laboratoire Biologie Cellulaire et Microscopie ElectroniqueFaculté de Médecine, Université François Rabelais, Tours, France
| | - Xavier Druart
- UMR0085 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA)/CNRS/Univ. Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- UMR0085 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC)Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA)/CNRS/Univ. Tours, Nouzilly, France
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Malmsten A, Jansson G, Dalin AM. Post-mortem examination of the reproductive organs of female wild boars (Sus scrofa) in Sweden. Reprod Domest Anim 2017; 52:570-578. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Malmsten
- Division of Reproduction; Department of Clinical Sciences; Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences; Uppsala Sweden
| | - Gunnar Jansson
- Grimsö Wildlife Research Station; Department of Ecology; Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences; Riddarhyttan Sweden
| | - Anne-Marie Dalin
- Division of Reproduction; Department of Clinical Sciences; Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences; Uppsala Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Polejaeva IA, Rutigliano HM, Wells KD. Livestock in biomedical research: history, current status and future prospective. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 28:112-24. [PMID: 27062879 DOI: 10.1071/rd15343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Livestock models have contributed significantly to biomedical and surgical advances. Their contribution is particularly prominent in the areas of physiology and assisted reproductive technologies, including understanding developmental processes and disorders, from ancient to modern times. Over the past 25 years, biomedical research that traditionally embraced a diverse species approach shifted to a small number of model species (e.g. mice and rats). The initial reasons for focusing the main efforts on the mouse were the availability of murine embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and genome sequence data. This powerful combination allowed for precise manipulation of the mouse genome (knockouts, knockins, transcriptional switches etc.) leading to ground-breaking discoveries on gene functions and regulation, and their role in health and disease. Despite the enormous contribution to biomedical research, mouse models have some major limitations. Their substantial differences compared with humans in body and organ size, lifespan and inbreeding result in pronounced metabolic, physiological and behavioural differences. Comparative studies of strategically chosen domestic species can complement mouse research and yield more rigorous findings. Because genome sequence and gene manipulation tools are now available for farm animals (cattle, pigs, sheep and goats), a larger number of livestock genetically engineered (GE) models will be accessible for biomedical research. This paper discusses the use of cattle, goats, sheep and pigs in biomedical research, provides an overview of transgenic technology in farm animals and highlights some of the beneficial characteristics of large animal models of human disease compared with the mouse. In addition, status and origin of current regulation of GE biomedical models is also reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irina A Polejaeva
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA
| | - Heloisa M Rutigliano
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA
| | - Kevin D Wells
- Division of Animal Sciences, Animal Sciences Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
The developmental competence of oocytes parthenogenetically activated by an electric pulse and anisomycin treatment. Biotechnol Lett 2016; 39:189-196. [PMID: 27864653 DOI: 10.1007/s10529-016-2249-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 11/01/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the developmental competence of oocytes parthenogenetically activated by an electric pulse (EP) and treated with anisomycin and to determine whether this method is applicable to somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). RESULTS Embryos derived from porcine oocytes parthenogenetically activated by an EP and treatment with 0.01 µg/mL anisomycin had a significantly improved in vitro developmental capacity. Furthermore, 66.6% of blastocysts derived from these embryos had a diploid karyotype. The blastocyst formation rate of cloned embryos was similar between oocytes activated by an EP and treated with 2 mM 6-dimethylaminopurine for 4 h and those activated by an EP and treated with 0.01 µg/mL anisomycin for 4 h. The level of maturation-promoting factor was significantly decreased in oocytes activated by an EP and treated with anisomycin. Finally, the mRNA expression levels of apoptosis-related genes (Bax and Bcl-2) and pluripotency-related genes (Oct4, Nanog, and Sox2) were checked by RT-PCR. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate that porcine oocyte activation via an EP in combination with anisomycin treatment can lead to a high blastocyst formation rate in parthenogenetic activation and SCNT experiments.
Collapse
|
15
|
Ventura-Juncá P, Irarrázaval I, Rolle AJ, Gutiérrez JI, Moreno RD, Santos MJ. In vitro fertilization (IVF) in mammals: epigenetic and developmental alterations. Scientific and bioethical implications for IVF in humans. Biol Res 2015; 48:68. [PMID: 26683055 PMCID: PMC4684609 DOI: 10.1186/s40659-015-0059-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 11/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The advent of in vitro fertilization (IVF) in animals and humans implies an extraordinary change in the environment where the beginning of a new organism takes place. In mammals fertilization occurs in the maternal oviduct, where there are unique conditions for guaranteeing the encounter of the gametes and the first stages of development of the embryo and thus its future. During this period a major epigenetic reprogramming takes place that is crucial for the normal fate of the embryo. This epigenetic reprogramming is very vulnerable to changes in environmental conditions such as the ones implied in IVF, including in vitro culture, nutrition, light, temperature, oxygen tension, embryo-maternal signaling, and the general absence of protection against foreign elements that could affect the stability of this process. The objective of this review is to update the impact of the various conditions inherent in the use of IVF on the epigenetic profile and outcomes of mammalian embryos, including superovulation, IVF technique, embryo culture and manipulation and absence of embryo-maternal signaling. It also covers the possible transgenerational inheritance of the epigenetic alterations associated with assisted reproductive technologies (ART), including its phenotypic consequences as is in the case of the large offspring syndrome (LOS). Finally, the important scientific and bioethical implications of the results found in animals are discussed in terms of the ART in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patricio Ventura-Juncá
- Bioethical Center and Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile. .,Bioethics Center, Universidad Finis Terrae, Pedro de Valdivia 1509, Providencia, Región Metropolitana, 7501015, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Isabel Irarrázaval
- Bioethical Center and Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Augusto J Rolle
- Bioethical Center and Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Juan I Gutiérrez
- Bioethical Center and Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Ricardo D Moreno
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile. .,Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Manuel J Santos
- Bioethical Center and Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile. .,Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Shen J, Zhou C, Zhu S, Shi W, Hu M, Fu X, Wang C, Wang Y, Zhang Q, Yu Y. Comparative transcriptome analysis reveals early pregnancy-specific genes expressed in peripheral blood of pregnant sows. PLoS One 2014; 9:e114036. [PMID: 25479131 PMCID: PMC4257664 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0114036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2013] [Accepted: 11/03/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Early and accurate diagnosis of pregnancy is important for effective management of an economical pig farm. Besides the currently available methods used in early diagnosis of sows, circulating nucleic acids in peripheral blood may contain some early pregnancy-specific molecular markers. For the first time, microarray analysis of peripheral blood from pregnant sows versus non-pregnant sows identified 127 up-regulated and 56 down-regulated genes at day 14 post-insemination. Gene Ontology annotation grouped the total differently expressed genes into 3 significantly enriched terms, cell surface receptor linked signal transduction, G-protein coupled receptor protein signaling pathway and regulation of vesicle-mediated transport. Signaling pathway analysis revealed the only one significantly changed pathway was arachidonic acid metabolism. Of the differently expressed genes, nine (including LPAR3, RXFP4, GALP, CBR1, CBR2, GPX6, USP18, LHB and NR5A1) were found to exert function related to early pregnancy processes. This study provides a clue that differentially abundant RNAs in maternal peripheral blood can help to identify the molecular markers of early pregnancy in pigs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junye Shen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agricultural, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, P.R. China
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Chuanli Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agricultural, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, P.R. China
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Shien Zhu
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Wenqing Shi
- Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Station of Beijing, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Maishun Hu
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Xiangwei Fu
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Chuduan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agricultural, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, P.R. China
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Yachun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agricultural, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, P.R. China
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Qin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agricultural, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, P.R. China
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Ying Yu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agricultural, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, P.R. China
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, P.R. China
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Grazul-Bilska AT, Johnson ML, Borowicz PP, Bilski JJ, Cymbaluk T, Norberg S, Redmer DA, Reynolds LP. Placental development during early pregnancy in sheep: effects of embryo origin on vascularization. Reproduction 2014; 147:639-48. [PMID: 24472816 DOI: 10.1530/rep-13-0663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Utero-placental growth and vascular development are critical for pregnancy establishment that may be altered by various factors including assisted reproductive technologies (ART), nutrition, or others, leading to compromised pregnancy. We hypothesized that placental vascularization and expression of angiogenic factors are altered early in pregnancies after transfer of embryos created using selected ART methods. Pregnancies were achieved through natural mating (NAT), or transfer of embryos from NAT (NAT-ET), or IVF or in vitro activation (IVA). Placental tissues were collected on day 22 of pregnancy. In maternal caruncles (CAR), vascular cell proliferation was less (P<0.05) for IVA than other groups. Compared with NAT, density of blood vessels was less (P<0.05) for IVF and IVA in fetal membranes (FM) and for NAT-ET, IVF, and IVA in CAR. In FM, mRNA expression was decreased (P<0.01-0.08) in NAT-ET, IVF, and IVA compared with NAT for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptor FLT1, placental growth factor (PGF), neuropilin 1 (NP1) and NP2, angiopoietin 1 (ANGPT1) and ANGPT2, endothelial nitric oxide synthase 3 (NOS3), hypoxia-inducible factor 1A (HIF1A), fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2), and its receptor FGFR2. In CAR, mRNA expression was decreased (P<0.01-0.05) in NAT-ET, IVF, and IVA compared with NAT for VEGF, FLT1, PGF, ANGPT1, and TEK. Decreased mRNA expression for 12 of 14 angiogenic factors across FM and CAR in NAT-ET, IVF, and IVA pregnancies was associated with reduced placental vascular development, which would lead to poor placental function and compromised fetal and placental growth and development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna T Grazul-Bilska
- Department of Animal Sciences, Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota 58108, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Strazzullo M, Gasparrini B, Neglia G, Balestrieri ML, Francioso R, Rossetti C, Nassa G, De Filippo MR, Weisz A, Di Francesco S, Vecchio D, D'Esposito M, D'Occhio MJ, Zicarelli L, Campanile G. Global transcriptome profiles of Italian Mediterranean buffalo embryos with normal and retarded growth. PLoS One 2014; 9:e90027. [PMID: 24587197 PMCID: PMC3938533 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0090027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2013] [Accepted: 01/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The transcriptome profiles were compared for buffalo embryos with normal growth and embryos with retarded growth on Day 25 after mating. Embryos with retarded growth on Day 25 after mating have a reduced likelihood of undergoing attachment to the uterine endometrium and establishing a pregnancy. Italian Mediterranean buffaloes were mated by AI and on Day 25 underwent trans-rectal ultrasonography to ascertain embryo development. Embryos with an embryonic width (EW)>2.7 mm were classed as normal embryos and embryos with an EW<2.7 mm were classed as retarded embryos. Three buffaloes with embryos of the largest EW (3.7, 3.7 and 3.9 mm) and three buffaloes with embryos of the smallest EW (1.5, 1.6 and 1.9 mm) were slaughtered on Day 27 to recover embryos for transcriptome analysis using a bovine custom designed oligo array. A total of 1,047 transcripts were differentially expressed between embryos with normal growth and embryos with retarded growth. Retarded embryos showed 773/1,047 (74%) transcripts that were down-regulated and 274/1,047 (26%) transcripts that were up-regulated relative to normal embryos; in silico analyses focused on 680/1,047 (65%) of the differentially expressed transcripts. The most altered transcripts observed in retarded embryos were associated with membrane structure and function and with metabolic and homeostasis maintenance functions. Other notable functions altered in retarded embryos were developmental processes and in particular nervous system differentiation and function. Specific biochemical pathways such as the complement cascade and coagulation were also altered in retarded embryos. It was concluded from the findings that buffalo embryos with retarded growth on Day 25 after mating show altered gene expression compared with normal embryos, and some de-regulated functions are associated with attachment to the uterine endometrium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Strazzullo
- Institute for Animal Production System in Mediterranean Environment, National Research Council, Naples, Italy
| | - Bianca Gasparrini
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Gianluca Neglia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Maria Luisa Balestrieri
- Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and General Pathology, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Romina Francioso
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics ABT, National Research Council, Naples, Italy
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCSS) Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Cristina Rossetti
- Institute for Animal Production System in Mediterranean Environment, National Research Council, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Nassa
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Salerno, Baronissi (SA), Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Weisz
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Salerno, Baronissi (SA), Italy
| | - Serena Di Francesco
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Domenico Vecchio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Maurizio D'Esposito
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics ABT, National Research Council, Naples, Italy
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCSS) Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
| | - Michael John D'Occhio
- Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Sydney, Camden, NSW, Australia
| | - Luigi Zicarelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Campanile
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Valdez Magaña G, Rodríguez A, Zhang H, Webb R, Alberio R. Paracrine effects of embryo-derived FGF4 and BMP4 during pig trophoblast elongation. Dev Biol 2014; 387:15-27. [PMID: 24445281 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2014.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2013] [Revised: 01/10/2014] [Accepted: 01/11/2014] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The crosstalk between the epiblast and the trophoblast is critical in supporting the early stages of conceptus development. FGF4 and BMP4 are inductive signals that participate in the communication between the epiblast and the extraembryonic ectoderm (ExE) of the developing mouse embryo. Importantly, however, it is unknown whether a similar crosstalk operates in species that lack a discernible ExE and develop a mammotypical embryonic disc (ED). Here we investigated the crosstalk between the epiblast and the trophectoderm (TE) during pig embryo elongation. FGF4 ligand and FGFR2 were detected primarily on the plasma membrane of TE cells of peri-elongation embryos. The binding of this growth factor to its receptor triggered a signal transduction response evidenced by an increase in phosphorylated MAPK/ERK. Particular enrichment was detected in the periphery of the ED in early ovoid embryos, indicating that active FGF signalling was operating during this stage. Gene expression analysis shows that CDX2 and ELF5, two genes expressed in the mouse ExE, are only co-expressed in the Rauber's layer, but not in the pig mural TE. Interestingly, these genes were detected in the nascent mesoderm of early gastrulating embryos. Analysis of BMP4 expression by in situ hybridisation shows that this growth factor is produced by nascent mesoderm cells. A functional test in differentiating epiblast shows that CDX2 and ELF5 are activated in response to BMP4. Furthermore, the effects of BMP4 were also demonstrated in the neighbouring TE cells, as demonstrated by an increase in phosphorylated SMAD1/5/8. These results show that BMP4 produced in the extraembryonic mesoderm is directly influencing the SMAD response in the TE of elongating embryos. These results demonstrate that paracrine signals from the embryo, represented by FGF4 and BMP4, induce a response in the TE prior to the extensive elongation. The study also confirms that expression of CDX2 and ELF5 is not conserved in the mural TE, indicating that although the signals that coordinate conceptus growth are similar between rodents and pigs, the gene regulatory network of the trophoblast lineage is not conserved in these species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Griselda Valdez Magaña
- Division of Animal Sciences, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, College Rd, LE12 5RD, Loughborough, UK
| | - Aida Rodríguez
- Division of Animal Sciences, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, College Rd, LE12 5RD, Loughborough, UK
| | - Haixin Zhang
- Division of Animal Sciences, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, College Rd, LE12 5RD, Loughborough, UK
| | - Robert Webb
- Division of Animal Sciences, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, College Rd, LE12 5RD, Loughborough, UK
| | - Ramiro Alberio
- Division of Animal Sciences, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, College Rd, LE12 5RD, Loughborough, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas E. Spencer
- Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Pereira FTV, Oliveira LJ, Barreto RDSN, Mess A, Perecin F, Bressan FF, Mesquita LG, Miglino MA, Pimentel JR, Neto PF, Meirelles FV. Fetal-maternal interactions in the synepitheliochorial placenta using the eGFP cloned cattle model. PLoS One 2013; 8:e64399. [PMID: 23724045 PMCID: PMC3665810 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0064399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2012] [Accepted: 04/12/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background To investigate mechanisms of fetal-maternal cell interactions in the bovine placenta, we developed a model of transgenic enhanced Green Fluorescent Protein (t-eGFP) expressing bovine embryos produced by nuclear transfer (NT) to assess the distribution of fetal-derived products in the bovine placenta. In addition, we searched for male specific DNA in the blood of females carrying in vitro produced male embryos. Our hypothesis is that the bovine placenta is more permeable to fetal-derived products than described elsewhere. Methodology/Principal Findings Samples of placentomes, chorion, endometrium, maternal peripheral blood leukocytes and blood plasma were collected during early gestation and processed for nested-PCR for eGFP and testis-specific Y-encoded protein (TSPY), western blotting and immunohistochemistry for eGFP detection, as well as transmission electron microscopy to verify the level of interaction between maternal and fetal cells. TSPY and eGFP DNA were present in the blood of cows carrying male pregnancies at day 60 of pregnancy. Protein and mRNA of eGFP were observed in the trophoblast and uterine tissues. In the placentomes, the protein expression was weak in the syncytial regions, but intense in neighboring cells on both sides of the fetal-maternal interface. Ultrastructurally, our samples from t-eGFP expressing NT pregnancies showed to be normal, such as the presence of interdigitating structures between fetal and maternal cells. In addition, channels-like structures were present in the trophoblast cells. Conclusions/Significance Data suggested that there is a delivery of fetal contents to the maternal system on both systemic and local levels that involved nuclear acids and proteins. It not clear the mechanisms involved in the transfer of fetal-derived molecules to the maternal system. This delivery may occur through nonclassical protein secretion; throughout transtrophoblastic-like channels and/or by apoptotic processes previously described. In conclusion, the bovine synepitheliochorial placenta displays an intimate fetal-maternal interaction, similar to other placental types for instance human and mouse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lilian J. Oliveira
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
- * E-mail:
| | - Rodrigo da Silva Nunes Barreto
- Department of Surgery - Anatomy of Domestic and Wild Animals - College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences - University of São Paulo, Butantã, Brazil
| | - Andrea Mess
- Department of Surgery - Anatomy of Domestic and Wild Animals - College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences - University of São Paulo, Butantã, Brazil
| | - Felipe Perecin
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Fernandes Bressan
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Ligia Garcia Mesquita
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Production - College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences - University of São Paulo, Butantã, Brazil
| | - Maria Angelica Miglino
- Department of Surgery - Anatomy of Domestic and Wild Animals - College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences - University of São Paulo, Butantã, Brazil
| | - José RodrigoValim Pimentel
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Paulo Fantinato Neto
- Department of Surgery - Anatomy of Domestic and Wild Animals - College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences - University of São Paulo, Butantã, Brazil
| | - Flávio Vieira Meirelles
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
- Center for Cell-based Theraphy, College of Medicine of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Gómez E, Caamaño JN, Corrales FJ, Díez C, Correia-Álvarez E, Martín D, Trigal B, Carrocera S, Mora MI, Pello-Palma J, Moreno JF, Muñoz M. Embryonic sex induces differential expression of proteins in bovine uterine fluid. J Proteome Res 2013; 12:1199-210. [PMID: 23379789 DOI: 10.1021/pr300845e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The bovine endometrium recognizes early embryos and reacts differently depending on the developmental potential of the embryo. However, it is unknown whether the endometrium can distinguish embryonic sex. Our objective was to analyze sexual dimorphism in the uterus in response to male and female embryos. Differentially expressed (DE) proteins, different levels of hexoses, and other embryotrophic differences were analyzed in uterine fluid (UF). Proteomic analysis of day-8 UF recovered from heifers after the transfer of day-5 male or female embryos identified 23 DE proteins. Regulated proteasome/immunoproteasome protein subunits indicated differences in antigen processing between UF carrying male embryos (male-UF) or female embryos (female-UF). Several enzymes involved in glycolysis/gluconeogenesis and antioxidative/antistress responses were up-regulated in female-UF. Fructose concentration was increased in female-UF versus male-UF, while glucose levels were similar. In vitro cultures with molecules isolated from male-UF were found to improve male embryo development compared to female embryos cultured with molecules isolated from female-UF. We postulated that, in vivo, male embryos induce changes in the endometrium to help ensure their survival. In contrast, female embryos do not appear to induce these changes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Enrique Gómez
- Centro de Biotecnología Animal-SERIDA, Camino de Rioseco 1225, La Olla-Deva, 33394 Gijón, Asturias, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Abstract
Experimental animals in biomedical research provide insights into disease mechanisms and models for determining the efficacy and safety of new therapies and for discovery of corresponding biomarkers. Although mouse and rat models are most widely used, observations in these species cannot always be faithfully extrapolated to human patients. Thus, a number of domestic species are additionally used in specific disease areas. This review summarizes the most important applications of domestic animal models and emphasizes the new possibilities genetic tailoring of disease models, specifically in pigs, provides.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Bähr
- Chair for Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ulbrich SE, Wolf E, Bauersachs S. Hosting the preimplantation embryo: potentials and limitations of different approaches for analysing embryo - endometrium interactions in cattle. Reprod Fertil Dev 2013; 25:62-70. [DOI: 10.1071/rd12279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ongoing detailed investigations into embryo–maternal communication before implantation reveal that during early embryonic development a plethora of events are taking place. During the sexual cycle, remodelling and differentiation processes in the endometrium are controlled by ovarian hormones, mainly progesterone, to provide a suitable environment for establishment of pregnancy. In addition, embryonic signalling molecules initiate further sequences of events; of these molecules, prostaglandins are discussed herein as specifically important. Inadequate receptivity may impede preimplantation development and implantation, leading to embryonic losses. Because there are multiple factors affecting fertility, receptivity is difficult to comprehend. This review addresses different models and methods that are currently used and discusses their respective potentials and limitations in distinguishing key messages out of molecular twitter. Transcriptome, proteome and metabolome analyses generate comprehensive information and provide starting points for hypotheses, which need to be substantiated using further confirmatory methods. Appropriate in vivo and in vitro models are needed to disentangle the effects of participating factors in the embryo–maternal dialogue and to help distinguish associations from causalities. One interesting model is the study of somatic cell nuclear transfer embryos in normal recipient heifers. A multidisciplinary approach is needed to properly assess the importance of the uterine milieu for embryonic development and to use the large number of new findings to solve long-standing issues regarding fertility.
Collapse
|
25
|
Grazul-Bilska AT, Johnson ML, Borowicz PP, Baranko L, Redmer DA, Reynolds LP. Placental development during early pregnancy in sheep: effects of embryo origin on fetal and placental growth and global methylation. Theriogenology 2012; 79:94-102. [PMID: 23117132 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2012.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2012] [Revised: 09/24/2012] [Accepted: 09/24/2012] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The origin of embryos including those created through assisted reproductive technologies might have profound effects on placental and fetal development, possibly leading to compromised pregnancies associated with poor placental development. To determine the effects of embryo origin on fetal size, and maternal and fetal placental cellular proliferation and global methylation, pregnancies were achieved through natural mating (NAT), or transfer of embryos generated through in vivo (NAT-ET), IVF, or in vitro activation (IVA). On Day 22 of pregnancy, fetuses were measured and placental tissues were collected to immunologically detect Ki67 (a marker of proliferating cells) and 5-methyl cytosine followed by image analysis, and determine mRNA expression for three DNA methyltransferases. Fetal length and labeling index (proportion of proliferating cells) in maternal caruncles (maternal placenta) and fetal membranes (fetal placenta) were less (P < 0.001) in NAT-ET, IVF, and IVA than in NAT. In fetal membranes, expression of 5-methyl cytosine was greater (P < 0.02) in IVF and IVA than in NAT. In maternal caruncles, mRNA expression for DNMT1 was greater (P < 0.01) in IVA compared with the other groups, but DNMT3A expression was less (P < 0.04) in NAT-ET and IVA than in NAT. In fetal membranes, expression of mRNA for DNMT3A was greater (P < 0.01) in IVA compared with the other groups, and was similar in NAT, NAT-ET, and IVF groups. Thus, embryo origin might have specific effects on growth and function of ovine uteroplacental and fetal tissues through regulation of tissue growth, DNA methylation, and likely other mechanisms. These data provide a foundation for determining expression of specific factors regulating placental and fetal tissue growth and function in normal and compromised pregnancies, including those achieved with assisted reproductive technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna T Grazul-Bilska
- Department of Animal Sciences, Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Van Soom A, Wydooghe E, Heras S, Vandaele L. Alternative models for the study of embryo - maternal cross-talk and signaling molecules from fertilisation to implantation. Reprod Fertil Dev 2011; 23:iii-v. [DOI: 10.1071/rdv23n8_fo] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
|