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Guo Y, Xue L, Tang W, Xiong J, Chen D, Dai Y, Wu C, Wei S, Dai J, Wu M, Wang S. Ovarian microenvironment: challenges and opportunities in protecting against chemotherapy-associated ovarian damage. Hum Reprod Update 2024:dmae020. [PMID: 38942605 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmae020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chemotherapy-associated ovarian damage (CAOD) is one of the most feared short- and long-term side effects of anticancer treatment in premenopausal women. Accumulating detailed data show that different chemotherapy regimens can lead to disturbance of ovarian hormone levels, reduced or lost fertility, and an increased risk of early menopause. Previous studies have often focused on the direct effects of chemotherapeutic drugs on ovarian follicles, such as direct DNA damage-mediated apoptotic death and primordial follicle burnout. Emerging evidence has revealed an imbalance in the ovarian microenvironment during chemotherapy. The ovarian microenvironment provides nutritional support and transportation of signals that stimulate the growth and development of follicles, ovulation, and corpus luteum formation. The close interaction between the ovarian microenvironment and follicles can determine ovarian function. Therefore, designing novel and precise strategies to manipulate the ovarian microenvironment may be a new strategy to protect ovarian function during chemotherapy. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review details the changes that occur in the ovarian microenvironment during chemotherapy and emphasizes the importance of developing new therapeutics that protect ovarian function by targeting the ovarian microenvironment during chemotherapy. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive review of the literature was performed by searching PubMed up to April 2024. Search terms included 'ovarian microenvironment' (ovarian extracellular matrix, ovarian stromal cells, ovarian interstitial, ovarian blood vessels, ovarian lymphatic vessels, ovarian macrophages, ovarian lymphocytes, ovarian immune cytokines, ovarian oxidative stress, ovarian reactive oxygen species, ovarian senescence cells, ovarian senescence-associated secretory phenotypes, ovarian oogonial stem cells, ovarian stem cells), terms related to ovarian function (reproductive health, fertility, infertility, fecundity, ovarian reserve, ovarian function, menopause, decreased ovarian reserve, premature ovarian insufficiency/failure), and terms related to chemotherapy (cyclophosphamide, lfosfamide, chlormethine, chlorambucil, busulfan, melphalan, procarbazine, cisplatin, doxorubicin, carboplatin, taxane, paclitaxel, docetaxel, 5-fluorouraci, vincristine, methotrexate, dactinomycin, bleomycin, mercaptopurine). OUTCOMES The ovarian microenvironment shows great changes during chemotherapy, inducing extracellular matrix deposition and stromal fibrosis, angiogenesis disorders, immune microenvironment disturbance, oxidative stress imbalances, ovarian stem cell exhaustion, and cell senescence, thereby lowering the quantity and quality of ovarian follicles. Several methods targeting the ovarian microenvironment have been adopted to prevent and treat CAOD, such as stem cell therapy and the use of free radical scavengers, senolytherapies, immunomodulators, and proangiogenic factors. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Ovarian function is determined by its 'seeds' (follicles) and 'soil' (ovarian microenvironment). The ovarian microenvironment has been reported to play a vital role in CAOD and targeting the ovarian microenvironment may present potential therapeutic approaches for CAOD. However, the relation between the ovarian microenvironment, its regulatory networks, and CAOD needs to be further studied. A better understanding of these issues could be helpful in explaining the pathogenesis of CAOD and creating innovative strategies for counteracting the effects exerted on ovarian function. Our aim is that this narrative review of CAOD will stimulate more research in this important field. REGISTRATION NUMBER Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yican Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Liru Xue
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Weicheng Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jiaqiang Xiong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Dan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yun Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Chuqing Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Simin Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jun Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Meng Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shixuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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2
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Yan H, Miranda EAD, Jin S, Wilson F, An K, Godbee B, Zheng X, Brau-Rodríguez AR, Lei L. Primary oocytes with cellular senescence features are involved in ovarian aging in mice. Sci Rep 2024; 14:13606. [PMID: 38871781 PMCID: PMC11176158 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64441-6] [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: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
In mammalian females, quiescent primordial follicles serve as the ovarian reserve and sustain normal ovarian function and egg production via folliculogenesis. The loss of primordial follicles causes ovarian aging. Cellular senescence, characterized by cell cycle arrest and production of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), is associated with tissue aging. In the present study, we report that some quiescent primary oocytes in primordial follicles become senescent in adult mouse ovaries. The senescent primary oocytes share senescence markers characterized in senescent somatic cells. The senescent primary oocytes were observed in young adult mouse ovaries, remained at approximately 15% of the total primary oocytes during ovarian aging from 6 to 12 months, and accumulated in aged ovaries. Administration of a senolytic drug ABT263 to 3-month-old mice reduced the percentage of senescent primary oocytes and the transcription of the SASP factors in the ovary, in addition, led to increased numbers of primordial and total follicles and a higher rate of oocyte maturation. Our study provides experimental evidence that primary oocytes, a germline cell type that is arrested in meiosis, become senescent in adult mouse ovaries and that senescent cell clearance reduced primordial follicle loss and mitigated ovarian aging phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Yan
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, 94945, USA
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Edgar Andres Diaz Miranda
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Shiying Jin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Faith Wilson
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
- Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Kang An
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Brooke Godbee
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
- College of Health Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Xiaobin Zheng
- Department of Embryology, Carnegie Institution for Science, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Astrid Roshealy Brau-Rodríguez
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Lei Lei
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA.
- Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA.
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3
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Nagy N, Hádinger N, Tóth O, Rácz GA, Pintér T, Gál Z, Urbán M, Gócza E, Hiripi L, Acsády L, Vértessy BG. Characterization of dUTPase expression in mouse postnatal development and adult neurogenesis. Sci Rep 2024; 14:13139. [PMID: 38849394 PMCID: PMC11161619 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-63405-0] [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: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The enzyme dUTPase has an essential role in maintaining genomic integrity. In mouse, nuclear and mitochondrial isoforms of the enzyme have been described. Here we present the isoform-specific mRNA expression levels in different murine organs during development using RT-qPCR. In this study, we analyzed organs of 14.5-day embryos and of postnatal 2-, 4-, 10-week- and 13-month-old mice. We demonstrate organ-, sex- and developmental stage-specific differences in the mRNA expression levels of both isoforms. We found high mRNA expression level of the nuclear isoform in the embryo brain, and the expression level remained relatively high in the adult brain as well. This was surprising, since dUTPase is known to play an important role in proliferating cells, and mass production of neural cells is completed by adulthood. Thus, we investigated the pattern of the dUTPase protein expression specifically in the adult brain with immunostaining and found that dUTPase is present in the germinative zones, the subventricular and the subgranular zones, where neurogenesis occurs and in the rostral migratory stream where neuroblasts migrate to the olfactory bulb. These novel findings suggest that dUTPase may have a role in cell differentiation and indicate that accurate dTTP biosynthesis can be vital, especially in neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolett Nagy
- Doctoral School of Biology, Institute of Biology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Pázmány Péter sétány 1/C, 1117, Budapest, Hungary.
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, HUN-REN, Magyar tudósok körútja 2, 1117, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Nóra Hádinger
- Laboratory of Thalamus Research, Institute of Experimental Medicine, HUN-REN, Szigony utca 43, 1083, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Otília Tóth
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, HUN-REN, Magyar tudósok körútja 2, 1117, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Applied Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology, BME Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Műegyetem rkp. 3, 1111, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gergely Attila Rácz
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, HUN-REN, Magyar tudósok körútja 2, 1117, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Applied Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology, BME Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Műegyetem rkp. 3, 1111, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tímea Pintér
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Institute of Genetics and Biotechnology, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Szent-Györgyi Albert utca 4, 2100, Gödöllő, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Gál
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Institute of Genetics and Biotechnology, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Szent-Györgyi Albert utca 4, 2100, Gödöllő, Hungary
| | - Martin Urbán
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Institute of Genetics and Biotechnology, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Szent-Györgyi Albert utca 4, 2100, Gödöllő, Hungary
| | - Elen Gócza
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Institute of Genetics and Biotechnology, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Szent-Györgyi Albert utca 4, 2100, Gödöllő, Hungary
| | - László Hiripi
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Institute of Genetics and Biotechnology, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Szent-Györgyi Albert utca 4, 2100, Gödöllő, Hungary
- Laboratory Animal Science Coordination Center, Semmelweis University, Nagyvárad tér 4, 1089, Budapest, Hungary
| | - László Acsády
- Laboratory of Thalamus Research, Institute of Experimental Medicine, HUN-REN, Szigony utca 43, 1083, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Beáta G Vértessy
- Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, HUN-REN, Magyar tudósok körútja 2, 1117, Budapest, Hungary.
- Department of Applied Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology, BME Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Műegyetem rkp. 3, 1111, Budapest, Hungary.
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Rice RC, Gil DV, Baratta AM, Frawley RR, Hill SY, Farris SP, Homanics GE. Inter- and transgenerational heritability of preconception chronic stress or alcohol exposure: Translational outcomes in brain and behavior. Neurobiol Stress 2024; 29:100603. [PMID: 38234394 PMCID: PMC10792982 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2023.100603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic stress and alcohol (ethanol) use are highly interrelated and can change an individual's behavior through molecular adaptations that do not change the DNA sequence, but instead change gene expression. A recent wealth of research has found that these nongenomic changes can be transmitted across generations, which could partially account for the "missing heritability" observed in genome-wide association studies of alcohol use disorder and other stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders. In this review, we summarize the molecular and behavioral outcomes of nongenomic inheritance of chronic stress and ethanol exposure and the germline mechanisms that could give rise to this heritability. In doing so, we outline the need for further research to: (1) Investigate individual germline mechanisms of paternal, maternal, and biparental nongenomic chronic stress- and ethanol-related inheritance; (2) Synthesize and dissect cross-generational chronic stress and ethanol exposure; (3) Determine cross-generational molecular outcomes of preconception ethanol exposure that contribute to alcohol-related disease risk, using cancer as an example. A detailed understanding of the cross-generational nongenomic effects of stress and/or ethanol will yield novel insight into the impact of ancestral perturbations on disease risk across generations and uncover actionable targets to improve human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel C. Rice
- Center for Neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Daniela V. Gil
- Center for Neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Annalisa M. Baratta
- Center for Neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Remy R. Frawley
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Shirley Y. Hill
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sean P. Farris
- Center for Neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Gregg E. Homanics
- Center for Neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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5
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Yan H, Miranda EAD, Jin S, Wilson F, An K, Godbee B, Zheng X, Brau-Rodríguez AR, Lei L. Primary oocytes with cellular senescence features are involved in ovarian aging in mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.08.574768. [PMID: 38260383 PMCID: PMC10802418 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.08.574768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
In mammalian females, quiescent primordial follicles serve as the ovarian reserve and sustain normal ovarian function and egg production via folliculogenesis. The loss of primordial follicles causes ovarian aging. Cellular senescence, characterized by cell cycle arrest and production of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), is associated with tissue aging. In the present study, we report that some quiescent primary oocytes in primordial follicles become senescent in adult mouse ovaries. The senescent primary oocytes share senescence markers characterized in senescent somatic cells. The senescent primary oocytes were observed in young adult mouse ovaries, remained at approximately 15% of the total primary oocytes during ovarian aging from 6 months to 12 months, and accumulated in aged ovaries. Administration of a senolytic drug ABT263 to 3-month-old mice reduced the percentage of senescent primary oocytes and the transcription of the SASP cytokines in the ovary. In addition, led to increased numbers of primordial and total follicles and a higher rate of oocyte maturation and female fertility. Our study provides experimental evidence that primary oocytes, a germline cell type that is arrested in meiosis, become senescent in adult mouse ovaries and that senescent cell clearance reduced primordial follicle loss and mitigated ovarian aging phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Yan
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, California, 94945
- Carnegie Institution for Science, Department of Embryology, Baltimore, Maryland, 21218
| | - Edgar Andres Diaz Miranda
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
| | - Shiying Jin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
| | - Faith Wilson
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
- Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
| | - Kang An
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
| | - Brooke Godbee
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
- College of Health Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
| | - Xiaobin Zheng
- Carnegie Institution for Science, Department of Embryology, Baltimore, Maryland, 21218
| | - Astrid Roshealy Brau-Rodríguez
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
| | - Lei Lei
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
- Division of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, 65211
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Telfer EE, Grosbois J, Odey YL, Rosario R, Anderson RA. Making a good egg: human oocyte health, aging, and in vitro development. Physiol Rev 2023; 103:2623-2677. [PMID: 37171807 PMCID: PMC10625843 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00032.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian eggs (oocytes) are formed during fetal life and establish associations with somatic cells to form primordial follicles that create a store of germ cells (the primordial pool). The size of this pool is influenced by key events during the formation of germ cells and by factors that influence the subsequent activation of follicle growth. These regulatory pathways must ensure that the reserve of oocytes within primordial follicles in humans lasts for up to 50 years, yet only approximately 0.1% will ever be ovulated with the rest undergoing degeneration. This review outlines the mechanisms and regulatory pathways that govern the processes of oocyte and follicle formation and later growth, within the ovarian stroma, through to ovulation with particular reference to human oocytes/follicles. In addition, the effects of aging on female reproductive capacity through changes in oocyte number and quality are emphasized, with both the cellular mechanisms and clinical implications discussed. Finally, the details of current developments in culture systems that support all stages of follicle growth to generate mature oocytes in vitro and emerging prospects for making new oocytes from stem cells are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn E Telfer
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Johanne Grosbois
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Yvonne L Odey
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Roseanne Rosario
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Lim J, Lee HL, Nguyen J, Shin J, Getze S, Quach C, Squire E, Jung KM, Mahler SV, Mackie K, Piomelli D, Luderer U. Adolescent exposure to low-dose Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol depletes the ovarian reserve in female mice. Toxicol Sci 2023; 193:31-47. [PMID: 36912754 PMCID: PMC10176244 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfad027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis use by adolescents is widespread, but its effects on the ovaries remain largely unknown. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) exerts its pharmacological effects by activating, and in some conditions hijacking, cannabinoid receptors (CBRs). We hypothesized that adolescent exposure to THC affects ovarian function in adulthood. Peripubertal female C57BL/6N mice were given THC (5 mg/kg) or its vehicle, once daily by intraperitoneal injection. Some mice received THC from postnatal day (PND) 30-33 and their ovaries were harvested PND34; other mice received THC from PND30-43, and their ovaries were harvested PND70. Adolescent treatment with THC depleted ovarian primordial follicle numbers by 50% at PND70, 4 weeks after the last dose. The treatment produced primordial follicle activation, which persisted until PND70. THC administration also caused DNA damage in primary follicles and increased PUMA protein expression in oocytes of primordial and primary follicles. Both CB1R and CB2R were expressed in oocytes and theca cells of ovarian follicles. Enzymes involved in the formation (N-acylphosphatidylethanolamine phospholipase D) or deactivation (fatty acid amide hydrolase) of the endocannabinoid anandamide were expressed in granulosa cells of ovarian follicles and interstitial cells. Levels of mRNA for CBR1 were significantly increased in ovaries after adolescent THC exposure, and upregulation persisted for at least 4 weeks. Our results support that adolescent exposure to THC may cause aberrant activation of the ovarian endocannabinoid system in female mice, resulting in substantial loss of ovarian reserve in adulthood. Relevance of these findings to women who frequently used cannabis during adolescence warrants investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhwan Lim
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
- Dept. of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Hye-Lim Lee
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Julie Nguyen
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Joyce Shin
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Samantha Getze
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Caitlin Quach
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Erica Squire
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Kwang-Mook Jung
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Stephen V Mahler
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Ken Mackie
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana 47405, USA
| | - Daniele Piomelli
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
| | - Ulrike Luderer
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
- Dept. of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
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Hocaoglu H, Sieber M. Mitochondrial respiratory quiescence: A new model for examining the role of mitochondrial metabolism in development. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2023; 138:94-103. [PMID: 35450766 PMCID: PMC9576824 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2022.03.040] [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: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondria are vital organelles with a central role in all aspects of cellular metabolism. As a means to support the ever-changing demands of the cell, mitochondria produce energy, drive biosynthetic processes, maintain redox homeostasis, and function as a hub for cell signaling. While mitochondria have been widely studied for their role in disease and metabolic dysfunction, this organelle has a continually evolving role in the regulation of development, wound repair, and regeneration. Mitochondrial metabolism dynamically changes as tissues transition through distinct phases of development. These organelles support the energetic and biosynthetic demands of developing cells and function as key structures that coordinate the nutrient status of the organism with developmental progression. This review will examine the mechanisms that link mitochondria to developmental processes. We will also examine the process of mitochondrial respiratory quiescence (MRQ), a novel mechanism for regulating cellular metabolism through the biochemical and physiological remodeling of mitochondria. Lastly, we will examine MRQ as a system to discover the mechanisms that drive mitochondrial remodeling during development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helin Hocaoglu
- Department of Physiology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Matthew Sieber
- Department of Physiology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
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9
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Kumar TR. Rerouting of follicle-stimulating hormone secretion and gonadal function. Fertil Steril 2023; 119:180-183. [PMID: 36496082 PMCID: PMC10014147 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) are synthesized in the same pituitary cell, i.e., gonadotrope. They both consist of a common α-subunit that is noncovalently assembled with a hormone-specific β-subunit in gonadotropes. The heterodimers exit gonadotropes through distinct modes of trafficking and secretion. The FSH is constitutively secreted, whereas LH is secreted in pulses through the regulated pathway that involves dense core granules. Based on several in vitro mutagenesis studies, the carboxy terminus heptapeptide of human LH-β subunit is identified as a gonadotrope sorting determinant. When heptapeptide is genetically fused to human FSH-β subunit and the mutant transgene expressed on a Fshb null genetic background, the rerouted FSH mutant dimer enters the LH secretory pathway, stored in dense core granules, coreleased with LH on gonadotropin releasing hormone stimulation and rescues Fshb null mice as efficiently as the constitutively secreted wild-type FSH. The rerouted FSH markedly suppresses follicle atresia and significantly enhances ovulations per cycle and prolongs the female reproductive life span. Gonadotropin rerouting is emerging as a novel paradigm to treat ovarian dysfunction in women, and may explain the origins of ovarian cyclicity as well as provide clues to understand gene and protein networks that maintain optimal ovarian function throughout the female reproductive life span.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Rajendra Kumar
- Division of Reprodcutive Sciences, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado.
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10
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Charalambous C, Webster A, Schuh M. Aneuploidy in mammalian oocytes and the impact of maternal ageing. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2023; 24:27-44. [PMID: 36068367 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-022-00517-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
During fertilization, the egg and the sperm are supposed to contribute precisely one copy of each chromosome to the embryo. However, human eggs frequently contain an incorrect number of chromosomes - a condition termed aneuploidy, which is much more prevalent in eggs than in either sperm or in most somatic cells. In turn, aneuploidy in eggs is a leading cause of infertility, miscarriage and congenital syndromes. Aneuploidy arises as a consequence of aberrant meiosis during egg development from its progenitor cell, the oocyte. In human oocytes, chromosomes often segregate incorrectly. Chromosome segregation errors increase in women from their mid-thirties, leading to even higher levels of aneuploidy in eggs from women of advanced maternal age, ultimately causing age-related infertility. Here, we cover the two main areas that contribute to aneuploidy: (1) factors that influence the fidelity of chromosome segregation in eggs of women from all ages and (2) factors that change in response to reproductive ageing. Recent discoveries reveal new error-causing pathways and present a framework for therapeutic strategies to extend the span of female fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Charalambous
- Department of Meiosis, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Alexandre Webster
- Department of Meiosis, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Melina Schuh
- Department of Meiosis, Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany.
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11
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Meng L, Zhang Y, Hua Y, Ma Y, Wang H, Li X, Jiang Y, Zhu G. Identification of oogonial stem cells in chicken ovary. Cell Prolif 2022; 56:e13371. [PMID: 36526415 PMCID: PMC9977656 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Oogonial stem cells (OSCs) are germ cells that can sustain neo-oogenesis to replenish the pool of primary follicles in adult ovaries. In lower vertebrates, fresh oocytes are produced by numerous OSCs through mitosis and meiosis during each reproduction cycle, but the OSCs in adult mammals are rare. The birds have retained many conserved features and developed unique features of ovarian physiology during evolution, and the presence of OSCs within avian species remain unknown. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this study, we investigated the existence and function of OSCs in adult chickens. The chicken OSCs were isolated and expanded in culture. We then used cell transplantation system to evaluate their potential for migration and differentiation in vivo. RESULTS DDX4/SSEA1-positive OSCs were identified in both the cortex and medulla of the adult chicken ovary. These putative OSCs undergo meiosis in the reproductively active ovary. Furthermore, the isolated OSCs were expanded in vitro for months and found to express germline markers similar to those of primordial germ cells. When transplanted into the bloodstream of recipient embryos, these OSCs efficiently migrated into developing gonads, initiated meiosis, and then derived oocytes in postnatal ovaries. CONCLUSIONS This study has confirmed the presence of functional OSCs in birds for the first time. The identification of chicken OSCs has great potential for improving egg laying and preserving endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Meng
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary MedicineShandong Agricultural UniversityTaianChina,College of Animal Science and TechnologyHuazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Yun Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary MedicineShandong Agricultural UniversityTaianChina
| | - Yao Hua
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary MedicineShandong Agricultural UniversityTaianChina,College of Animal Science and TechnologyHuazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Yuxiao Ma
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary MedicineShandong Agricultural UniversityTaianChina
| | - Heng Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary MedicineShandong Agricultural UniversityTaianChina
| | - Xianyao Li
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary MedicineShandong Agricultural UniversityTaianChina
| | - Yunliang Jiang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary MedicineShandong Agricultural UniversityTaianChina
| | - Guiyu Zhu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Veterinary MedicineShandong Agricultural UniversityTaianChina,College of Animal Science and TechnologyHuazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhanChina
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12
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Zhu Z, Xu W, Liu L. Ovarian aging: mechanisms and intervention strategies. MEDICAL REVIEW (BERLIN, GERMANY) 2022; 2:590-610. [PMID: 37724254 PMCID: PMC10471094 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2022-0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian reserve is essential for fertility and influences healthy aging in women. Advanced maternal age correlates with the progressive loss of both the quantity and quality of oocytes. The molecular mechanisms and various contributing factors underlying ovarian aging have been uncovered. In this review, we highlight some of critical factors that impact oocyte quantity and quality during aging. Germ cell and follicle reserve at birth determines reproductive lifespan and timing the menopause in female mammals. Accelerated diminishing ovarian reserve leads to premature ovarian aging or insufficiency. Poor oocyte quality with increasing age could result from chromosomal cohesion deterioration and misaligned chromosomes, telomere shortening, DNA damage and associated genetic mutations, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and epigenetic alteration. We also discuss the intervention strategies to delay ovarian aging. Both the efficacy of senotherapies by antioxidants against reproductive aging and mitochondrial therapy are discussed. Functional oocytes and ovarioids could be rejuvenated from pluripotent stem cells or somatic cells. We propose directions for future interventions. As couples increasingly begin delaying parenthood in life worldwide, understanding the molecular mechanisms during female reproductive aging and potential intervention strategies could benefit women in making earlier choices about their reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengmao Zhu
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Wanxue Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Union Medical Center, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
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13
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Spradling AC, Niu W, Yin Q, Pathak M, Maurya B. Conservation of oocyte development in germline cysts from Drosophila to mouse. eLife 2022; 11:83230. [PMID: 36445738 PMCID: PMC9708067 DOI: 10.7554/elife.83230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies show that pre-follicular mouse oogenesis takes place in germline cysts, highly conserved groups of oogonial cells connected by intercellular bridges that develop as nurse cells as well as an oocyte. Long studied in Drosophila and insect gametogenesis, female germline cysts acquire cytoskeletal polarity and traffic centrosomes and organelles between nurse cells and the oocyte to form the Balbiani body, a conserved marker of polarity. Mouse oocyte development and nurse cell dumping are supported by dynamic, cell-specific programs of germline gene expression. High levels of perinatal germ cell death in this species primarily result from programmed nurse cell turnover after transfer rather than defective oocyte production. The striking evolutionary conservation of early oogenesis mechanisms between distant animal groups strongly suggests that gametogenesis and early embryonic development in vertebrates and invertebrates share even more in common than currently believed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan C Spradling
- Carnegie Institution for Science/Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Baltimore, United States
| | - Wanbao Niu
- Carnegie Institution for Science/Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Baltimore, United States
| | - Qi Yin
- Carnegie Institution for Science/Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Baltimore, United States
| | - Madhulika Pathak
- Carnegie Institution for Science/Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Baltimore, United States
| | - Bhawana Maurya
- Carnegie Institution for Science/Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Baltimore, United States
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14
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Silvestris E, Minoia C, Guarini A, Opinto G, Negri A, Dellino M, Tinelli R, Cormio G, Paradiso AV, De Palma G. Ovarian Stem Cells (OSCs) from the Cryopreserved Ovarian Cortex: A Potential for Neo-Oogenesis in Women with Cancer-Treatment Related Infertility: A Case Report and a Review of Literature. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2022; 44:2309-2320. [PMID: 35678686 PMCID: PMC9164018 DOI: 10.3390/cimb44050157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer treatment related infertility (CTRI) affects more than one third of young women undergoing anti-cancer protocols, inducing a premature exhaustion of the ovarian reserve. In addition to ovarian suppression by GnRHa, oocyte and cortex cryopreservation has gained interest in patients with estrogen-sensitive tumors for whom the hormonal burst to prompt the multiple follicular growth could provide a further pro-life tumor pulsing. On the other hand, cortex reimplantation implies a few drawbacks due to the unknown consistency of the follicles to be reimplanted or the risk of reintroducing malignant cells. The capability of ovarian stem cells (OCSs) from fresh ovarian cortex fragments to differentiate in vitro to mature oocytes provides a tool to overcome these drawbacks. In fact, since ovarian cortex sampling and cryopreservation is practicable before gonadotoxic treatments, the recruitment of OSCs from defrosted fragments could provide a novel opportunity to verify their suitability to be expanded in vitro as oocyte like cells (OLCs). Here, we describe in very preliminary experiments the consistency of an OSC population from a single cryopreserved ovarian cortex after thawing as well as both their viability and their suitability to be further explored in their property to differentiate in OLCs, thus reinforcing interest in stemness studies in the treatment of female CTRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Silvestris
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Carla Minoia
- Haematology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (C.M.); (A.G.); (G.O.); (A.N.)
| | - Attilio Guarini
- Haematology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (C.M.); (A.G.); (G.O.); (A.N.)
| | - Giuseppina Opinto
- Haematology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (C.M.); (A.G.); (G.O.); (A.N.)
| | - Antonio Negri
- Haematology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (C.M.); (A.G.); (G.O.); (A.N.)
| | - Miriam Dellino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “San Paolo” Hospital, 70123 Bari, Italy;
| | - Raffaele Tinelli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Valle d’Itria” Hospital, 74015 Martina Franca, Italy;
| | - Gennaro Cormio
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy;
| | - Angelo Virgilio Paradiso
- Institutional BioBank, Experimental Oncology and Biobank Management Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.V.P.); (G.D.P.)
| | - Giuseppe De Palma
- Institutional BioBank, Experimental Oncology and Biobank Management Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.V.P.); (G.D.P.)
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15
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Abstract
The proteostasis network (PN) regulates protein synthesis, folding, and degradation and is critical for the health and function of all cells. The PN has been extensively studied in the context of aging and age-related diseases, and loss of proteostasis is regarded as a major contributor to many age-associated disorders. In contrast to somatic tissues, an important feature of germ cells is their ability to maintain a healthy proteome across generations. Accumulating evidence has now revealed multiple layers of PN regulation that support germ cell function, determine reproductive capacity during aging, and prioritize reproduction at the expense of somatic health. Here, we review recent insights into these different modes of regulation and their implications for reproductive and somatic aging.
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16
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Haldar S, Agrawal H, Saha S, Straughn AR, Roy P, Kakar SS. Overview of follicle stimulating hormone and its receptors in reproduction and in stem cells and cancer stem cells. Int J Biol Sci 2022; 18:675-692. [PMID: 35002517 PMCID: PMC8741861 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.63721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and its receptor (FSHR) have been reported to be responsible for several physiological functions and cancers. The responsiveness of stem cells and cancer stem cells towards the FSH-FSHR system make the function of FSH and its receptors more interesting in the context of cancer biology. This review is comprised of comprehensive information on FSH-FSHR signaling in normal physiology, gonadal stem cells, cancer cells, and potential options of utilizing FSH-FSHR system as an anti-cancer therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Haldar
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Uttarakhand 247667, India.,Current address: Drug Discovery and Development Division, Patanjali Research Institute, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249405
| | - Himanshu Agrawal
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Uttarakhand 247667, India
| | - Sarama Saha
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249203, India
| | - Alex R Straughn
- Department of Physiology, James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Partha Roy
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Uttarakhand 247667, India
| | - Sham S Kakar
- Department of Physiology, James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
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17
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Luderer U, Lim J, Ortiz L, Nguyen JD, Shin JH, Allen BD, Liao LS, Malott K, Perraud V, Wingen LM, Arechavala RJ, Bliss B, Herman DA, Kleinman MT. Exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations of ambient fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) depletes the ovarian follicle reserve and causes sex-dependent cardiovascular changes in apolipoprotein E null mice. Part Fibre Toxicol 2022; 19:5. [PMID: 34996492 PMCID: PMC8740366 DOI: 10.1186/s12989-021-00445-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure accelerates atherosclerosis and contains known ovotoxic chemicals. However, effects of exposure to PM2.5 on the finite ovarian follicle pool have hardly been investigated, nor have interactions between ovarian and cardiovascular effects. We hypothesized that subchronic inhalation exposure to human-relevant concentrations of PM2.5 results in destruction of ovarian follicles via apoptosis induction, as well as accelerated recruitment of primordial follicles into the growing pool. Further, we hypothesized that destruction of ovarian follicles enhances the adverse cardiovascular effects of PM2.5 in females. RESULTS Hyperlipidemic apolipoprotein E (Apoe) null ovary-intact or ovariectomized female mice and testis-intact male mice were exposed to concentrated ambient PM2.5 or filtered air for 12 weeks, 5 days/week for 4 h/day using a versatile aerosol concentration enrichment system. Primordial, primary, and secondary ovarian follicle numbers were decreased by 45%, 40%, and 17%, respectively, in PM2.5-exposed ovary-intact mice compared to controls (P < 0.05). The percentage of primary follicles with granulosa cells positive for the mitosis marker Ki67 was increased in the ovaries from PM2.5-exposed females versus controls (P < 0.05), consistent with increased recruitment of primordial follicles into the growing pool. Exposure to PM2.5 increased the percentages of primary and secondary follicles with DNA damage, assessed by γH2AX immunostaining (P < 0.05). Exposure to PM2.5 increased the percentages of apoptotic antral follicles, determined by TUNEL and activated caspase 3 immunostaining (P < 0.05). Removal of the ovaries and PM2.5-exposure exacerbated the atherosclerotic effects of hyperlipidemia in females (P < 0.05). While there were statistically significant changes in blood pressure and heart rate variability in PM2.5-compared to Air-exposed gonad-intact males and females and ovariectomized females, the changes were not consistent between exposure years and assessment methods. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that subchronic PM2.5 exposure depletes the ovarian reserve by increasing recruitment of primordial follicles into the growing pool and increasing apoptosis of growing follicles. Further, PM2.5 exposure and removal of the ovaries each increase atherosclerosis progression in Apoe-/- females. Premature loss of ovarian function is associated with increased risk of osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's disease in women. Our results thus support possible links between PM2.5 exposure and other adverse health outcomes in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Luderer
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, 100 Theory Drive, Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92617 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, University of California Irvine, 100 Theory Drive, Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92617 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Jinhwan Lim
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, 100 Theory Drive, Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Laura Ortiz
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Johnny D. Nguyen
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Joyce H. Shin
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, 100 Theory Drive, Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92617 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Barrett D. Allen
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, 100 Theory Drive, Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Lisa S. Liao
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Kelli Malott
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, 100 Theory Drive, Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92617 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Veronique Perraud
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Lisa M. Wingen
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Rebecca J. Arechavala
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, 100 Theory Drive, Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92617 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Bishop Bliss
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, 100 Theory Drive, Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92617 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - David A. Herman
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Michael T. Kleinman
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, 100 Theory Drive, Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92617 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, University of California Irvine, 100 Theory Drive, Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92617 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
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18
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Stem Cells in Adult Mice Ovaries Form Germ Cell Nests, Undergo Meiosis, Neo-oogenesis and Follicle Assembly on Regular Basis During Estrus Cycle. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2021; 17:1695-1711. [PMID: 34455541 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-021-10237-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Very small embryonic-like (VSELs) and ovarian (OSCs) stem cells are located in adult mammalian ovary surface epithelium (OSE). OSCs can expand long-term and differentiate into oocyte-like structures in vitro and have resulted in birth of fertile pups. Lineage tracing studies have provided evidence to suggest OSCs differentiation into oocytes in vivo. But how these stem cells function under normal physiological conditions has not yet been well worked out. Besides studying STRA-8 and SCP-3 expression in enzymatically isolated OSE cells smears, mice were injected BrdU to track mitosis, meiosis and follicle assembly. H&E stained OSE cells during late diestrus and proestrus showed VSELs undergoing asymmetrical cell divisions to give rise to slightly bigger OSCs which in turn underwent symmetrical cell divisions followed by clonal expansion (rapid expansion with incomplete cytokinesis) during early estrus to form germ cell nests (GCN). OCT-4, SSEA-1, MVH and DAZL positive cells in GCN expressed Erα, Erβ and FSHR, were interconnected by ring canals (TEX-14), showed mitochondrial aggregation (Cytochrome C) and Balbiani Body (TRAL). Apoptosis in 'nurse' cells was marked by PARP and putative oocytes were clearly visualized. BrdU was detected in cells undergoing mitosis/meiosis and also in an oocyte of secondary follicle. FACS sorted, green fluorescent protein (GFP) positive VSELs upon transplantation resulted in GFP positive GCN suggesting crucial role for VSELs in adult ovaries. Results suggest that various events described during oogenesis and follicle assembly in fetal ovaries are recapitulated on regular basis in adult ovary and result in the formation of follicles.
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19
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Ikami K, Nuzhat N, Abbott H, Pandoy R, Haky L, Spradling AC, Tanner H, Lei L. Altered germline cyst formation and oogenesis in Tex14 mutant mice. Biol Open 2021; 10:269245. [PMID: 34156079 PMCID: PMC8249907 DOI: 10.1242/bio.058807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
During oocyte differentiation in mouse fetal ovaries, sister germ cells are connected by intercellular bridges, forming germline cysts. Within the cyst, primary oocytes form via gaining cytoplasm and organelles from sister germ cells through germ cell connectivity. To uncover the role of intercellular bridges in oocyte differentiation, we analyzed mutant female mice lacking testis-expressed 14 (TEX14), a protein involved in intercellular bridge formation and stabilization. In Tex14 homozygous mutant fetal ovaries, germ cells divide to form a reduced number of cysts in which germ cells remained connected via syncytia or fragmented cell membranes, rather than normal intercellular bridges. Compared with wild-type cysts, homozygous mutant cysts fragmented at a higher frequency and produced a greatly reduced number of primary oocytes with precocious cytoplasmic enrichment and enlarged volume. By contrast, Tex14 heterozygous mutant germline cysts were less fragmented and generate primary oocytes at a reduced size. Moreover, enlarged primary oocytes in homozygous mutants were used more efficiently to sustain folliculogenesis than undersized heterozygous mutant primary oocytes. Our observations directly link the nature of fetal germline cysts to oocyte differentiation and development. Summary: Altered germline cyst formation and fragmentation due to defective germ cell connectivity leads to changes in oocyte differentiation and development in Tex14 mutant mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanako Ikami
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, 94949, Novato, CA, USA
| | - Nafisa Nuzhat
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, 48109, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Haley Abbott
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, 48109, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Ronald Pandoy
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, 94949, Novato, CA, USA
| | - Lauren Haky
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, 94949, Novato, CA, USA
| | - Allan C Spradling
- Department of Embryology, Carnegie Institution for Science, 21218, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Heather Tanner
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, 94949, Novato, CA, USA
| | - Lei Lei
- Buck Institute for Research on Aging, 94949, Novato, CA, USA
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20
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Hainaut M, Clarke HJ. Germ cells of the mammalian female: A limited or renewable resource? Biol Reprod 2021; 105:774-788. [PMID: 34114006 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In many non-mammalian organisms, a population of germ-line stem cells supports continuing production of gametes during most or all the life of the individual, and germ-line stem cells are also present and functional in male mammals. Traditionally, however, they have been thought not to exist in female mammals, who instead generate all their germ cells during fetal life. Over the last several years, this dogma has been challenged by several reports, while supported by others. We describe and compare these conflicting studies with the aim of understanding how they came to opposing conclusions. We first consider studies that, by examining marker-gene expression, the fate of genetically marked cells, and consequences of depleting the oocyte population, addressed whether ovaries of post-natal females contain oogonial stem cells (OSC) that give rise to new oocytes. We next discuss whether ovaries contain cells that, even if inactive under physiological conditions, nonetheless possess OSC properties that can be revealed through cell-culture. We then examine studies of whether cells harvested after long-term culture of cells obtained from ovaries can, following transplantation into ovaries of recipient females, give rise to oocytes and offspring. Finally, we note studies where somatic cells have been re-programmed to acquire a female germ-cell fate. We conclude that the weight of evidence strongly supports the traditional interpretation that germ-line stem cells do not exist post-natally in female mammals. However, the ability to generate germ cells from somatic cells in vitro establishes a method to generate new gametes from cells of post-natal mammalian females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Hainaut
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal Canada
| | - Hugh J Clarke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal Canada
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21
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Habara O, Logan CY, Kanai-Azuma M, Nusse R, Takase HM. WNT signaling in pre-granulosa cells is required for ovarian folliculogenesis and female fertility. Development 2021; 148:261700. [PMID: 33914868 PMCID: PMC8126407 DOI: 10.1242/dev.198846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
In mammalian ovaries, immature oocytes are reserved in primordial follicles until their activation for potential ovulation. Precise control of primordial follicle activation (PFA) is essential for reproduction, but how this is achieved is unclear. Here, we show that canonical wingless-type MMTV integration site family (WNT) signaling is pivotal for pre-granulosa cell (pre-GC) activation during PFA. We identified several WNT ligands expressed in pre-GCs that act in an autocrine manner. Inhibition of WNT secretion from pre-GCs/GCs by conditional knockout (cKO) of the wntless (Wls) gene led to female infertility. In Wls cKO mice, GC layer thickness was greatly reduced in growing follicles, which resulted in impaired oocyte growth with both an abnormal, sustained nuclear localization of forkhead box O3 (FOXO3) and reduced phosphorylation of ribosomal protein S6 (RPS6). Constitutive stabilization of β-catenin (CTNNB1) in pre-GCs/GCs induced morphological changes of pre-GCs from a squamous into a cuboidal form, though it did not influence oocyte activation. Our results reveal that canonical WNT signaling plays a permissive role in the transition of pre-GCs to GCs, which is an essential step to support oocyte growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Okiko Habara
- Laboratory for Organismal Patterning, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Catriona Y Logan
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Developmental Biology and Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Masami Kanai-Azuma
- Department of Experimental Animal Model for Human Disease, Center for Experimental Animals, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| | - Roeland Nusse
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Developmental Biology and Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Hinako M Takase
- Laboratory for Organismal Patterning, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe 650-0047, Japan.,Department of Experimental Animal Model for Human Disease, Center for Experimental Animals, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
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22
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Frost ER, Taylor G, Baker MA, Lovell-Badge R, Sutherland JM. Establishing and maintaining fertility: the importance of cell cycle arrest. Genes Dev 2021; 35:619-634. [PMID: 33888561 PMCID: PMC8091977 DOI: 10.1101/gad.348151.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In this review, Frost et al. summarize the current knowledge on the Cip/Kip family of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors in mouse gonad development and highlight new roles for cell cycle inhibitors in controlling and maintaining female fertility. Development of the ovary or testis is required to establish reproductive competence. Gonad development relies on key cell fate decisions that occur early in embryonic development and are actively maintained. During gonad development, both germ cells and somatic cells proliferate extensively, a process facilitated by cell cycle regulation. This review focuses on the Cip/Kip family of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors (CKIs) in mouse gonad development. We particularly highlight recent single-cell RNA sequencing studies that show the heterogeneity of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors. This diversity highlights new roles for cell cycle inhibitors in controlling and maintaining female fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R Frost
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Biomedical Science and Pharmacy, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales 2305, Australia.,Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, United Kingdom
| | - Güneş Taylor
- Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, United Kingdom
| | - Mark A Baker
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Biomedical Science and Pharmacy, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales 2305, Australia
| | - Robin Lovell-Badge
- Stem Cell Biology and Developmental Genetics Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, United Kingdom
| | - Jessie M Sutherland
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Biomedical Science and Pharmacy, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales 2305, Australia
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23
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Regenerative Medicine Approaches in Bioengineering Female Reproductive Tissues. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:1573-1595. [PMID: 33877644 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00548-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Diseases, disorders, and dysfunctions of the female reproductive tract tissues can result in either infertility and/or hormonal imbalance. Current treatment options are limited and often do not result in tissue function restoration, requiring alternative therapeutic approaches. Regenerative medicine offers potential new therapies through the bioengineering of female reproductive tissues. This review focuses on some of the current technologies that could address the restoration of functional female reproductive tissues, including the use of stem cells, biomaterial scaffolds, bio-printing, and bio-fabrication of tissues or organoids. The use of these approaches could also be used to address issues in infertility. Strategies such as cell-based hormone replacement therapy could provide a more natural means of restoring normal ovarian physiology. Engineering of reproductive tissues and organs could serve as a powerful tool for correcting developmental anomalies. Organ-on-a-chip technologies could be used to perform drug screening for personalized medicine approaches and scientific investigations of the complex physiological interactions between the female reproductive tissues and other organ systems. While some of these technologies have already been developed, others have not been translated for clinical application. The continuous evolution of biomaterials and techniques, advances in bioprinting, along with emerging ideas for new approaches, shows a promising future for treating female reproductive tract-related disorders and dysfunctions.
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24
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Weaver LN, Drummond-Barbosa D. Hormone receptor 4 is required in muscles and distinct ovarian cell types to regulate specific steps of Drosophila oogenesis. Development 2021; 148:dev.198663. [PMID: 33547134 DOI: 10.1242/dev.198663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The conserved nuclear receptor superfamily has crucial roles in many processes, including reproduction. Nuclear receptors with known roles in oogenesis have been studied mostly in the context of their ovary-intrinsic requirement. Recent studies in Drosophila, however, have begun to reveal new roles of nuclear receptor signaling in peripheral tissues in controlling reproduction. Here, we identified Hormone receptor 4 (Hr4) as an oogenesis regulator required in the ovary and muscles. Global Hr4 knockdown leads to increased germline stem cell (GSC) loss, reduced GSC proliferation, early germline cyst death, slowed follicle growth and vitellogenic follicle degeneration. Tissue-specific knockdown experiments uncovered ovary-intrinsic and peripheral tissue requirements for Hr4 In the ovary, Hr4 is required in the niche for GSC proliferation and in the germline for GSC maintenance. Hr4 functions in muscles to promote GSC maintenance and follicle growth. The specific tissues that require Hr4 for survival of early germline cysts and vitellogenic follicles remain unidentified. These results add to the few examples of muscles controlling gametogenesis and expand our understanding of the complexity of nuclear receptor regulation of various aspects of oogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley N Weaver
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Daniela Drummond-Barbosa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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25
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Arias Padilla LF, Castañeda-Cortés DC, Rosa IF, Moreno Acosta OD, Hattori RS, Nóbrega RH, Fernandino JI. Cystic proliferation of germline stem cells is necessary to reproductive success and normal mating behavior in medaka. eLife 2021; 10:62757. [PMID: 33646121 PMCID: PMC7946426 DOI: 10.7554/elife.62757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The production of an adequate number of gametes is necessary for normal reproduction, for which the regulation of proliferation from early gonadal development to adulthood is key in both sexes. Cystic proliferation of germline stem cells is an especially important step prior to the beginning of meiosis; however, the molecular regulators of this proliferation remain elusive in vertebrates. Here, we report that ndrg1b is an important regulator of cystic proliferation in medaka. We generated mutants of ndrg1b that led to a disruption of cystic proliferation of germ cells. This loss of cystic proliferation was observed from embryogenic to adult stages, impacting the success of gamete production and reproductive parameters such as spawning and fertilization. Interestingly, the depletion of cystic proliferation also impacted male sexual behavior, with a decrease of mating vigor. These data illustrate why it is also necessary to consider gamete production capacity in order to analyze reproductive behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Diana C Castañeda-Cortés
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Ivana F Rosa
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Omar D Moreno Acosta
- Salmonid Experimental Station at Campos do Jordão, UPD-CJ, Sao Paulo Fisheries Institute (APTA/SAA), Campos do Jordao, Brazil
| | - Ricardo S Hattori
- Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Rafael H Nóbrega
- Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús, INTECH (CONICET-UNSAM), Chascomús, Argentina
| | - Juan I Fernandino
- Instituto Tecnológico de Chascomús, INTECH (CONICET-UNSAM), Chascomús, Argentina
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26
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Fiorentino G, Parrilli A, Garagna S, Zuccotti M. Three-dimensional imaging and reconstruction of the whole ovary and testis: a new frontier for the reproductive scientist. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:6129265. [PMID: 33544861 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaab007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The 3D functional reconstruction of a whole organ or organism down to the single cell level and to the subcellular components and molecules is a major future scientific challenge. The recent convergence of advanced imaging techniques with an impressively increased computing power allowed early attempts to translate and combine 2D images and functional data to obtain in-silico organ 3D models. This review first describes the experimental pipeline required for organ 3D reconstruction: from the collection of 2D serial images obtained with light, confocal, light-sheet microscopy or tomography, followed by their registration, segmentation and subsequent 3D rendering. Then, we summarise the results of investigations performed so far by applying these 3D image analyses to the study of the female and male mammalian gonads. These studies highlight the importance of working towards a 3D in-silico model of the ovary and testis as a tool to gain insights into their biology during the phases of differentiation or adulthood, in normal or pathological conditions. Furthermore, the use of 3D imaging approaches opens to key technical improvements, ranging from image acquisition to optimisation and development of new processing tools, and unfolds novel possibilities for multidisciplinary research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Fiorentino
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology 'Lazzaro Spallanzani', University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy.,Center for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, Pavia 27100, Italy
| | - Annapaola Parrilli
- Center for X-ray Analytics, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Silvia Garagna
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology 'Lazzaro Spallanzani', University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy.,Center for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, Pavia 27100, Italy
| | - Maurizio Zuccotti
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology and Biotechnology 'Lazzaro Spallanzani', University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy.,Center for Health Technologies, University of Pavia, Pavia 27100, Italy
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27
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Heng D, Sheng X, Tian C, Li J, Liu L, Gou M, Liu L. Mtor inhibition by INK128 extends functions of the ovary reconstituted from germline stem cells in aging and premature aging mice. Aging Cell 2021; 20:e13304. [PMID: 33448083 PMCID: PMC7884035 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell transplantation has been generally considered as promising therapeutics in preserving or recovering functions of lost, damaged, or aging tissues. Transplantation of primordial germ cells (PGCs) or oogonia stem cells (OSCs) can reconstitute ovarian functions that yet sustain for only short period of time, limiting potential application of stem cells in preservation of fertility and endocrine function. Here, we show that mTOR inhibition by INK128 extends the follicular and endocrine functions of the reconstituted ovaries in aging and premature aging mice following transplantation of PGCs/OSCs. Follicular development and endocrine functions of the reconstituted ovaries by transplanting PGCs into kidney capsule of the recipient mice were maintained by INK128 treatment for more than 12 weeks, in contrast to the controls for only about 4 weeks without receiving the mTOR inhibitors. Comparatively, rapamycin also can prolong the ovarian functions but for limited time. Furthermore, our data reveal that INK128 promotes mitochondrial function in addition to its known function in suppression of immune response and inflammation. Taken together, germline stem cell transplantation in combination with mTOR inhibition by INK128 improves and extends the reconstituted ovarian and endocrine functions in reproductive aging and premature aging mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dai Heng
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Department of Cell Biology and GeneticsCollege of Life SciencesNankai UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Xiaoyan Sheng
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Department of Cell Biology and GeneticsCollege of Life SciencesNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Animal Resources CenterNankai UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Chenglei Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Department of Cell Biology and GeneticsCollege of Life SciencesNankai UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Jie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Department of Cell Biology and GeneticsCollege of Life SciencesNankai UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Linlin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Department of Cell Biology and GeneticsCollege of Life SciencesNankai UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Mo Gou
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Department of Cell Biology and GeneticsCollege of Life SciencesNankai UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Lin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Department of Cell Biology and GeneticsCollege of Life SciencesNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Animal Resources CenterNankai UniversityTianjinChina
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28
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Kinnear HM, Tomaszewski CE, Chang FL, Moravek MB, Xu M, Padmanabhan V, Shikanov A. The ovarian stroma as a new frontier. Reproduction 2020; 160:R25-R39. [PMID: 32716007 PMCID: PMC7453977 DOI: 10.1530/rep-19-0501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Historically, research in ovarian biology has focused on folliculogenesis, but recently the ovarian stroma has become an exciting new frontier for research, holding critical keys to understanding complex ovarian dynamics. Ovarian follicles, which are the functional units of the ovary, comprise the ovarian parenchyma, while the ovarian stroma thus refers to the inverse or the components of the ovary that are not ovarian follicles. The ovarian stroma includes more general components such as immune cells, blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic vessels, as well as ovary-specific components including ovarian surface epithelium, tunica albuginea, intraovarian rete ovarii, hilar cells, stem cells, and a majority of incompletely characterized stromal cells including the fibroblast-like, spindle-shaped, and interstitial cells. The stroma also includes ovarian extracellular matrix components. This review combines foundational and emerging scholarship regarding the structures and roles of the different components of the ovarian stroma in normal physiology. This is followed by a discussion of key areas for further research regarding the ovarian stroma, including elucidating theca cell origins, understanding stromal cell hormone production and responsiveness, investigating pathological conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), developing artificial ovary technology, and using technological advances to further delineate the multiple stromal cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadrian M Kinnear
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Claire E Tomaszewski
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Faith L Chang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Molly B Moravek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Min Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Ariella Shikanov
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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29
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Grive KJ. Pathways coordinating oocyte attrition and abundance during mammalian ovarian reserve establishment. Mol Reprod Dev 2020; 87:843-856. [PMID: 32720428 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian ovarian reserve is comprised of a finite pool of primordial follicles, representing the lifetime reproductive capacity of females. In most mammals, the reserve is produced during embryonic and early postnatal development with oocyte numbers peaking during mid-to-late gestation, and then experiencing a dramatic decline continuing until shortly after birth. Oocytes remaining after the bulk of this attrition are subsequently surrounded by a layer of somatic pre-granulosa cells with these units then referred to as "primordial follicles." The complex and varied cell death mechanisms intrinsic to this process are not only characteristic of, but also essential for, the proper formation of this pool of follicles, and as a result must be immaculately balanced to ensure long-term fertility and reproductive health. Too few follicles can lead to Primary Ovarian Insufficiency, resulting in fertility loss and other features of aging, such as an overall shorter lifespan. On the other hand, whereas an excess of follicles might extend reproductive lifespan, this might also be the underlying etiology of other ovarian pathologies. The last decade, in particular, has vastly expanded our understanding of oocyte attrition and determinants of ovarian reserve abundance. By continuing to decipher the intricacies underlying the cell death processes and development of the initial primordial follicle pool, we may be in a much better position to understand idiopathic cases of premature follicle depletion and improve ovarian health in reproductive-age women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn J Grive
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Program in Women's Oncology, Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, Rhode Island.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
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30
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Wang Z, Liu CY, Zhao Y, Dean J. FIGLA, LHX8 and SOHLH1 transcription factor networks regulate mouse oocyte growth and differentiation. Nucleic Acids Res 2020; 48:3525-3541. [PMID: 32086523 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Germ-cell transcription factors control gene networks that regulate oocyte differentiation and primordial follicle formation during early, postnatal mouse oogenesis. Taking advantage of gene-edited mice lacking transcription factors expressed in female germ cells, we analyzed global gene expression profiles in perinatal ovaries from wildtype, FiglaNull, Lhx8Null and Sohlh1Null mice. Figla deficiency dysregulates expression of meiosis-related genes (e.g. Sycp3, Rad51, Ybx2) and a variety of genes (e.g. Nobox, Lhx8, Taf4b, Sohlh1, Sohlh2, Gdf9) associated with oocyte growth and differentiation. The absence of FIGLA significantly impedes meiotic progression, causes DNA damage and results in oocyte apoptosis. Moreover, we find that FIGLA and other transcriptional regulator proteins (e.g. NOBOX, LHX8, SOHLH1, SOHLH2) are co-expressed in the same subset of germ cells in perinatal ovaries and Figla ablation dramatically disrupts KIT, NOBOX, LHX8, SOHLH1 and SOHLH2 abundance. In addition, not only do FIGLA, LHX8 and SOHLH1 cross-regulate each other, they also cooperate by direct interaction with each during early oocyte development and share downstream gene targets. Thus, our findings substantiate a major role for FIGLA, LHX8 and SOHLH1 as multifunctional regulators of networks necessary for oocyte maintenance and differentiation during early folliculogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengpin Wang
- Laboratory of Cellular and Developmental Biology, NIDDK, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Chen-Yu Liu
- Laboratory of Cellular and Developmental Biology, NIDDK, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Yangu Zhao
- Laboratory of Cellular and Developmental Biology, NIDDK, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Jurrien Dean
- Laboratory of Cellular and Developmental Biology, NIDDK, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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31
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De Cian MC, Gregoire EP, Le Rolle M, Lachambre S, Mondin M, Bell S, Guigon CJ, Chassot AA, Chaboissier MC. R-spondin2 signaling is required for oocyte-driven intercellular communication and follicular growth. Cell Death Differ 2020; 27:2856-2871. [PMID: 32341451 PMCID: PMC7493947 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-020-0547-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
R-spondin2 (RSPO2) is a member of the R-spondin family, which are secreted activators of the WNT/β-catenin (CTNNB1) signaling pathway. In the mouse postnatal ovary, WNT/CTNNB1 signaling is active in the oocyte and in the neighboring supporting cells, the granulosa cells. Although the role of Rspo2 has been previously studied using in vitro experiments, the results are conflicting and the in vivo ovarian function of Rspo2 remains unclear. In the present study, we found that RSPO2/Rspo2 expression is restricted to the oocyte of developing follicles in both human and mouse ovaries from the beginning of the follicular growth. In mice, genetic deletion of Rspo2 does not impair oocyte growth, but instead prevents cell cycle progression of neighboring granulosa cells, thus resulting in an arrest of follicular growth. We further show this cell cycle arrest to be independent of growth promoting GDF9 signaling, but rather associated with a downregulation of WNT/CTNNB1 signaling in granulosa cells. To confirm the contribution of WNT/CTNNB1 signaling in granulosa cell proliferation, we induced cell type specific deletion of Ctnnb1 postnatally. Strikingly, follicles lacking Ctnnb1 failed to develop beyond the primary stage. These results show that RSPO2 acts in a paracrine manner to sustain granulosa cell proliferation in early developing follicles. Taken together, our data demonstrate that the activation of WNT/CTNNB1 signaling by RSPO2 is essential for oocyte-granulosa cell interactions that drive maturation of the ovarian follicles and eventually female fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Cécile De Cian
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Inserm, iBV, Nice, France.,Université de Corte, Corte, France
| | | | | | | | - Magali Mondin
- Université de Bordeaux, UMS 3420 CNRS-US4 Inserm, Pôle d'imagerie photonique, Bordeaux, France
| | - Sheila Bell
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Céline J Guigon
- Université de Paris, BFA, UMR 8251, CNRS, ERL U1133, Inserm, Paris, France
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32
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Satirapod C, Wang N, MacDonald JA, Sun M, Woods DC, Tilly JL. Estrogen regulation of germline stem cell differentiation as a mechanism contributing to female reproductive aging. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:7313-7333. [PMID: 32302290 PMCID: PMC7202493 DOI: 10.18632/aging.103080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Progressive loss of ovarian estrogen (E2) production is a hallmark feature of, if not a driving force behind, reproductive aging and the menopause. Recent genetic studies in mice have shown that female germline or oogonial stem cells (OSCs) contribute to maintenance of adult ovarian function and fertility under physiological conditions through support of de-novo oogenesis. Here we show that mouse OSCs express E2 receptor-α (ERα). In the presence of E2, ERα interacts with the stimulated by retinoic acid gene 8 (Stra8) promoter to drive Stra8 expression followed by oogenesis. Treatment of mice with E2 in vivo increases Stra8 expression and oogenesis, and these effects are nullified by ERα (Esr1), but not ERβ (Esr2), gene disruption. Although mice lacking ERα are born with a normal quota of oocytes, ERα-deficient females develop premature ovarian insufficiency in adulthood due to impaired oogenesis. Lastly, mice treated with reversible ER antagonists show a loss of Stra8 expression and oocyte numbers; however, both endpoints rebound to control levels after ceasing drug treatment. These findings establish a key physiological role for E2-ERα signaling in promoting OSC differentiation as a potential mechanism to maintain adequate numbers of ovarian follicles during reproductive life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chonthicha Satirapod
- Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ning Wang
- Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Current address: Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Julie A. MacDonald
- Department of Biology, Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Current address: Department of Medical Oncology Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Minghan Sun
- Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Dori C. Woods
- Department of Biology, Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jonathan L. Tilly
- Department of Biology, Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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Zhang M, Liu L, Cao X, Liu Y, Di J, Huang X, Sun F, Huang W, Xu F. Efficiently accumulating germ-like stem cells from mouse postnatal ovary by in situ tissue culture. Dev Growth Differ 2020; 62:223-231. [PMID: 32189336 DOI: 10.1111/dgd.12656] [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: 11/16/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Although recent studies have revealed that germline stem cells (GSCs) exist in the mouse postnatal ovary, how to efficiently obtain GSCs for regenerating neo-oogenesis is still a technical challenge. Here, we report that using in situ tissue culture we can efficiently accumulate large amounts of proliferating germ-like cells from mouse postnatal ovaries. Usually, more than 10,000 germ-like cells can be derived from one ovary by this method, and over 20% of these cells can grow into germ-like cells with self-renewal, which thus can serve as a good cell pool to isolate GSCs by other cell assorting methods such as FACS. This method is simple and time-saving, which should be useful for in future studies on mouse GSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meizi Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Li Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaomin Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Ye Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jianyong Di
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiuying Huang
- Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fangzhen Sun
- Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Weihong Huang
- Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fengqin Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China
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Tharp ME, Malki S, Bortvin A. Maximizing the ovarian reserve in mice by evading LINE-1 genotoxicity. Nat Commun 2020; 11:330. [PMID: 31949138 PMCID: PMC6965193 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-14055-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Female reproductive success critically depends on the size and quality of a finite ovarian reserve. Paradoxically, mammals eliminate up to 80% of the initial oocyte pool through the enigmatic process of fetal oocyte attrition (FOA). Here, we interrogate the striking correlation of FOA with retrotransposon LINE-1 (L1) expression in mice to understand how L1 activity influences FOA and its biological relevance. We report that L1 activity triggers FOA through DNA damage-driven apoptosis and the complement system of immunity. We demonstrate this by combined inhibition of L1 reverse transcriptase activity and the Chk2-dependent DNA damage checkpoint to prevent FOA. Remarkably, reverse transcriptase inhibitor AZT-treated Chk2 mutant oocytes that evade FOA initially accumulate, but subsequently resolve, L1-instigated genotoxic threats independent of piRNAs and differentiate, resulting in an increased functional ovarian reserve. We conclude that FOA serves as quality control for oocyte genome integrity, and is not obligatory for oogenesis nor fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marla E Tharp
- Department of Embryology, Carnegie Institution for Science, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Safia Malki
- Department of Embryology, Carnegie Institution for Science, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Alex Bortvin
- Department of Embryology, Carnegie Institution for Science, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA.
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35
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Rossi LF, Nottola S, Miglietta S, Macchiarelli G, Luaces JP, Merico V, Merani S, Garagna S, Zuccotti M. Germ cell cysts, a fetal feature in mammals, are constitutively present in the adult armadillo. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 87:91-101. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Luis Francisco Rossi
- Laboratorio de Biología Cromosómica, Facultad de MedicinaUniversidad de Buenos AiresBuenos Aires Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y TécnicasBuenos Aires Argentina
| | - Stefania Nottola
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and OrthopedicsUniversity of Rome La SapienzaRome Italy
| | - Selenia Miglietta
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and OrthopedicsUniversity of Rome La SapienzaRome Italy
| | - Guido Macchiarelli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental SciencesUniversity of L'aquilaL'aquila Italy
| | - Juan Pablo Luaces
- Laboratorio de Biología Cromosómica, Facultad de MedicinaUniversidad de Buenos AiresBuenos Aires Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y TécnicasBuenos Aires Argentina
| | - Valeria Merico
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Lazzaro Spallanzani,”University of PaviaPavia Italy
- Centre for Health TechnologyUniversity of PaviaPavia Italy
| | - Susana Merani
- Laboratorio de Biología Cromosómica, Facultad de MedicinaUniversidad de Buenos AiresBuenos Aires Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y TécnicasBuenos Aires Argentina
| | - Silvia Garagna
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Lazzaro Spallanzani,”University of PaviaPavia Italy
- Centre for Health TechnologyUniversity of PaviaPavia Italy
| | - Maurizio Zuccotti
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “Lazzaro Spallanzani,”University of PaviaPavia Italy
- Centre for Health TechnologyUniversity of PaviaPavia Italy
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36
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Mariniello K, Ruiz-Babot G, McGaugh EC, Nicholson JG, Gualtieri A, Gaston-Massuet C, Nostro MC, Guasti L. Stem Cells, Self-Renewal, and Lineage Commitment in the Endocrine System. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:772. [PMID: 31781041 PMCID: PMC6856655 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocrine system coordinates a wide array of body functions mainly through secretion of hormones and their actions on target tissues. Over the last decades, a collective effort between developmental biologists, geneticists, and stem cell biologists has generated a wealth of knowledge related to the contribution of stem/progenitor cells to both organogenesis and self-renewal of endocrine organs. This review provides an up-to-date and comprehensive overview of the role of tissue stem cells in the development and self-renewal of endocrine organs. Pathways governing crucial steps in both development and stemness maintenance, and that are known to be frequently altered in a wide array of endocrine disorders, including cancer, are also described. Crucially, this plethora of information is being channeled into the development of potential new cell-based treatment modalities for endocrine-related illnesses, some of which have made it through clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katia Mariniello
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gerard Ruiz-Babot
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Emily C. McGaugh
- McEwen Stem Cell Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - James G. Nicholson
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Angelica Gualtieri
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Carles Gaston-Massuet
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Cristina Nostro
- McEwen Stem Cell Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Leonardo Guasti
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Bart's and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Chromosome segregation errors in human oocytes lead to aneuploid embryos that cause infertility and birth defects. Here we provide an overview of the chromosome-segregation process in the mammalian oocyte, highlighting mechanistic differences between oocytes and somatic cells that render oocytes so prone to segregation error. These differences include the extremely large size of the oocyte cytoplasm, the unique geometry of meiosis-I chromosomes, idiosyncratic function of the spindle assembly checkpoint, and dramatically altered oocyte cell-cycle control and spindle assembly, as compared to typical somatic cells. We summarise recent work suggesting that aging leads to a further deterioration in fidelity of chromosome segregation by impacting multiple components of the chromosome-segregation machinery. In addition, we compare and contrast recent results from mouse and human oocytes, which exhibit overlapping defects to differing extents. We conclude that the striking propensity of the oocyte to mis-segregate chromosomes reflects the unique challenges faced by the spindle in a highly unusual cellular environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandar I Mihajlović
- Centre Recherche CHUM and Department OBGYN, Université de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Greg FitzHarris
- Centre Recherche CHUM and Department OBGYN, Université de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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38
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Vermeulen M, Giudice MG, Del Vento F, Wyns C. Role of stem cells in fertility preservation: current insights. STEM CELLS AND CLONING-ADVANCES AND APPLICATIONS 2019; 12:27-48. [PMID: 31496751 PMCID: PMC6689135 DOI: 10.2147/sccaa.s178490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
While improvements made in the field of cancer therapy allow high survival rates, gonadotoxicity of chemo- and radiotherapy can lead to infertility in male and female pre- and postpubertal patients. Clinical options to preserve fertility before starting gonadotoxic therapies by cryopreserving sperm or oocytes for future use with assisted reproductive technology (ART) are now applied worldwide. Cryopreservation of pre- and postpubertal ovarian tissue containing primordial follicles, though still considered experimental, has already led to the birth of healthy babies after autotransplantation and is performed in an increasing number of centers. For prepubertal boys who do not produce gametes ready for fertilization, cryopreservation of immature testicular tissue (ITT) containing spermatogonial stem cells may be proposed as an experimental strategy with the aim of restoring fertility. Based on achievements in nonhuman primates, autotransplantation of ITT or testicular cell suspensions appears promising to restore fertility of young cancer survivors. So far, whether in two- or three-dimensional culture systems, in vitro maturation of immature male and female gonadal cells or tissue has not demonstrated a capacity to produce safe gametes for ART. Recently, primordial germ cells have been generated from embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells, but further investigations regarding efficiency and safety are needed. Transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells to improve the vascularization of gonadal tissue grafts, increase the colonization of transplanted cells, and restore the damaged somatic compartment could overcome the current limitations encountered with transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Vermeulen
- Gynecology-Andrology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, 1200, Belgium
| | - Maria-Grazia Giudice
- Gynecology-Andrology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, 1200, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Federico Del Vento
- Gynecology-Andrology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, 1200, Belgium
| | - Christine Wyns
- Gynecology-Andrology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, 1200, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels 1200, Belgium
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39
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Sills ES, Wood SH. Autologous activated platelet-rich plasma injection into adult human ovary tissue: molecular mechanism, analysis, and discussion of reproductive response. Biosci Rep 2019; 39:BSR20190805. [PMID: 31092698 PMCID: PMC6549090 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20190805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
In clinical infertility practice, one intractable problem is low (or absent) ovarian reserve which in turn reflects the natural oocyte depletion associated with advancing maternal age. The number of available eggs has been generally thought to be finite and strictly limited, an entrenched and largely unchallenged tenet dating back more than 50 years. In the past decade, it has been suggested that renewable ovarian germline stem cells (GSCs) exist in adults, and that such cells may be utilized as an oocyte source for women seeking to extend fertility. Currently, the issue of whether mammalian females possess such a population of renewable GSCs remains unsettled. The topic is complex and even agreement on a definitive approach to verify the process of 'ovarian rescue' or 're-potentiation' has been elusive. Similarities have been noted between wound healing and ovarian tissue repair following capsule rupture at ovulation. In addition, molecular signaling events which might be necessary to reverse the effects of reproductive ageing seem congruent with changes occurring in tissue injury responses elsewhere. Recently, clinical experience with such a technique based on autologous activated platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment of the adult human ovary has been reported. This review summarizes the present state of understanding of the interaction of platelet-derived growth factors with adult ovarian tissue, and the outcome of human reproductive potential following PRP treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Scott Sills
- Gen 5 Fertility Center, Office for Reproductive Research, Center for Advanced Genetics; San Diego, CA, U.S.A.
- Applied Biotechnology Research Group, University of Westminster; London W1B 2HW, U.K
| | - Samuel H Wood
- Gen 5 Fertility Center, Office for Reproductive Research, Center for Advanced Genetics; San Diego, CA, U.S.A
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40
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Clarke H. Control of Mammalian Oocyte Development by Interactions with the Maternal Follicular Environment. Results Probl Cell Differ 2019; 63:17-41. [PMID: 28779312 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-60855-6_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Development of animal germ cells depends critically on continuous contact and communication with the somatic compartment of the gonad. In females, each oocyte is enclosed within a follicle, whose somatic cells supply nutrients that sustain basal metabolic activity of the oocyte and send signals that regulate its differentiation. This maternal microenvironment thus plays an indispensable role in ensuring the production of fully differentiated oocytes that can give rise to healthy embryos. The granulosa cells send signals, likely membrane-associated Kit ligand, which trigger oocytes within resting-stage primordial follicles to initiate growth. During growth, the granulosa cells feed amino acids, nucleotides, and glycolytic substrates to the oocyte. These factors are necessary for the oocyte to complete its growth and are delivered via gap junctions that couple the granulosa cells to the oocyte. In a complementary manner, growing oocytes also release growth factors, notably growth-differentiation factor 9 and bone morphogenetic protein 15, which are necessary for proper differentiation of the granulosa cells and for these cells to support oocyte growth. During the late stages of oocyte growth, cyclic GMP that is synthesized by the granulosa cells and diffuses into the oocyte is required to prevent its precocious entry into meiotic maturation. Finally, at the early stages of maturation, granulosa cell signals promote the synthesis of a subset of proteins within the oocyte that enhance their ability to develop as embryos. Thus, the maternal legacy of the follicular microenvironment is witnessed by the fertilization of the ovulated oocyte and subsequent birth of healthy offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugh Clarke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Room E.M0.2218, Glen Research Building, 100 Boul Decarie, Montreal, QC, Canada, H4A 3J1.
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41
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Clarkson YL, Weatherall E, Waterfall M, McLaughlin M, Lu H, Skehel PA, Anderson RA, Telfer EE. Extracellular Localisation of the C-Terminus of DDX4 Confirmed by Immunocytochemistry and Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting. Cells 2019; 8:cells8060578. [PMID: 31212843 PMCID: PMC6627596 DOI: 10.3390/cells8060578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Revised: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Putative oogonial stem cells (OSCs) have been isolated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) from adult human ovarian tissue using an antibody against DEAD-box helicase 4 (DDX4). DDX4 has been reported to be germ cell specific within the gonads and localised intracellularly. White et al. (2012) hypothesised that the C-terminus of DDX4 is localised on the surface of putative OSCs but is internalised during the process of oogenesis. This hypothesis is controversial since it is assumed that RNA helicases function intracellularly with no extracellular expression. To determine whether the C-terminus of DDX4 could be expressed on the cell surface, we generated a novel expression construct to express full-length DDX4 as a DsRed2 fusion protein with unique C- and N-terminal epitope tags. DDX4 and the C-terminal myc tag were detected at the cell surface by immunocytochemistry and FACS of non-permeabilised human embryonic kidney HEK 293T cells transfected with the DDX4 construct. DDX4 mRNA expression was detected in the DDX4-positive sorted cells by RT-PCR. This study clearly demonstrates that the C-terminus of DDX4 can be expressed on the cell surface despite its lack of a conventional membrane-targeting or secretory sequence. These results validate the use of antibody-based FACS to isolate DDX4-positive putative OSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne L Clarkson
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FF, UK.
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK.
- Ashworth Laboratories, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3JR, UK.
| | - Emma Weatherall
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FF, UK.
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK.
- Ashworth Laboratories, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3JR, UK.
| | - Martin Waterfall
- Ashworth Laboratories, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3JR, UK.
| | - Marie McLaughlin
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FF, UK.
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK.
- Ashworth Laboratories, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3JR, UK.
| | - Haojiang Lu
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FF, UK.
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK.
- Ashworth Laboratories, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3JR, UK.
| | - Paul A Skehel
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK.
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK.
| | - Evelyn E Telfer
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FF, UK.
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK.
- Ashworth Laboratories, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3JR, UK.
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Luderer U, Meier MJ, Lawson GW, Beal MA, Yauk CL, Marchetti F. In Utero Exposure to Benzo[a]pyrene Induces Ovarian Mutations at Doses That Deplete Ovarian Follicles in Mice. ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2019; 60:410-420. [PMID: 30353947 PMCID: PMC6615722 DOI: 10.1002/em.22261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Revised: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons like benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) are ubiquitous environmental contaminants formed during incomplete combustion of organic materials. Our prior work showed that transplacental exposure to BaP depletes ovarian follicles and increases prevalence of epithelial ovarian tumors later in life. We used the MutaMouse transgenic rodent model to address the hypothesis that ovarian mutations play a role in tumorigenesis caused by prenatal exposure to BaP. Pregnant MutaMouse females were treated with 0, 10, 20, or 40 mg/(kg day) BaP orally on gestational days 7-16, covering critical windows of ovarian development. Female offspring were euthanized at 10 weeks of age; some ovaries with oviducts were processed for follicle counting; other ovaries/oviducts and bone marrow were processed for determination of lacZ mutant frequency (MF). Mutant plaques were pooled within dose groups and sequenced to determine the mutation spectrum. BaP exposure caused highly significant dose-related decreases in ovarian follicles and increases in ovarian/oviductal and bone marrow mutant frequencies at all doses. Absence of follicles, cell packets, and epithelial tubular structures were observed with 20 and 40 mg/(kg day) BaP. Depletion of ovarian germ cells was inversely associated with ovarian MF. BaP induced primarily G > T and G > C transversions and deletions in ovaries/oviducts and bone marrow cells and produced a mutation signature highly consistent with that of tobacco smoking in human cancers. Overall, our results show that prenatal BaP exposure significantly depletes ovarian germ cells, causes histopathological abnormalities, and increases the burden of ovarian/oviductal mutations, which may be involved in pathogenesis of epithelial ovarian tumors. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 60:410-420, 2019. © 2018 Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Luderer
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, UC Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617
- Program in Public Health, UC Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617
| | - Matthew J. Meier
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada
- Present address: Ecotoxicology and Wildlife Health Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Gregory W. Lawson
- Office for Laboratory Animal Care, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720
| | - Marc A. Beal
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Carole L. Yauk
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada
| | - Francesco Marchetti
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0K9, Canada
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43
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Effects of VEGF
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Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Platelet-Rich Plasma on Inbred Rat Ovarian Functions in Cyclophosphamide-Induced Premature Ovarian Insufficiency Model. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2019; 15:558-573. [DOI: 10.1007/s12015-019-09892-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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44
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Bhartiya D. Stem cells survive oncotherapy & can regenerate non-functional gonads: A paradigm shift for oncofertility. Indian J Med Res 2019; 148:S38-S49. [PMID: 30964080 PMCID: PMC6469380 DOI: 10.4103/ijmr.ijmr_2065_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A large proportion of patients who survive cancer are rendered infertile as an unwanted side effect of oncotherapy. Currently accepted approaches for fertility preservation involve banking eggs/sperm/embryos or ovarian/testicular tissue before oncotherapy for future use. Such approaches are invasive, expensive, technically challenging and depend on assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Establishing a gonadal tissue bank (for cancer patients) is also fraught with ethical, legal and safety issues. Most importantly, patients who find it difficult to meet expenses towards cancer treatment will find it difficult to meet expenses towards gonadal tissue banking and ART to achieve parenthood later on. In this review an alternative strategy to regenerate non-functional gonads in cancer survivors by targeting endogenous stem cells that survive oncotherapy is discussed. A novel population of pluripotent stem cells termed very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs), developmentally equivalent to late migratory primordial germ cells, exists in adult gonads and survives oncotherapy due to their quiescent nature. However, the stem-cell niche gets compromised by oncotherapy. Transplanting niche cells (Sertoli or mesenchymal cells) can regenerate the non-functional gonads. This approach is safe, has resulted in the birth of fertile offspring in mice and could restore gonadal function early in life to support proper growth and later serve as a source of gametes. This newly emerging understanding on stem cells biology can obviate the need to bank gonadal tissue and fertility may also be restored in existing cancer survivors who were earlier deprived of gonadal tissue banking before oncotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, India
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[Neo-oogenesis in the adult ovary: What do we know?]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 47:478-483. [PMID: 30818039 DOI: 10.1016/j.gofs.2019.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
For more than a decade, the existence of ovarian stem cells that can contribute to neo-oogenesis in the adult ovary is reported by some teams, challenging the dogma according to which mammalian females are born with a fixed and non-renewed germinal cell pool. The presence of germinal stem cells with mitotic activity suggests the possibility of potential postnatal oogenesis. These cells have both germ-line and stem cell markers in culture. They have been isolated using different strategies and their ability to differentiate into oocytes has been demonstrated since after reintroduction in an ovarian somatic environment, these cells generate follicles capable of producing healthy offspring in rodents. However, many scientists remain skeptical and question the reliability of the methods used. Despite that there is no consensus on the origin of these ovarian stem cells, private companies are now proposing to use their stem cell potential to treat human infertility.
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Zhuo Y, Hua L, Feng B, Jiang X, Li J, Jiang D, Huang X, Zhu Y, Li Z, Yan L, Jin C, Che L, Fang Z, Lin Y, Xu S, Li J, Wu D. Fibroblast growth factor 21 coordinates adiponectin to mediate the beneficial effects of low-protein diet on primordial follicle reserve. EBioMedicine 2019; 41:623-635. [PMID: 30772303 PMCID: PMC6444179 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2019.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Global consumption of protein per capita is rising, while rates of infertility are increasing. However, a clear relationship between protein intake and reproductive health has not been demonstrated. The activation of the quiescent primordial follicles is the first step of folliculogenesis, and their activation must be tightly controlled to prevent premature exhaustion of the ovarian follicular reserve. Methods The primordial follicle reserve of wild-type or liver-specific ablation of fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) in mice, subjected to limited or excessive protein diets or oral gavage test, were detected in vivo. Mouse ovary organ cultures were used to examine the direct role of metabolites or metabolic hormones on primordial follicle activation. Findings Mouse primordial follicle activation, was reduced by restricted protein intake and was accelerated by excessive protein intake, in an ovarian mTORC1 signaling-dependent manner. Furthermore, restricted or excessive protein intake resulted in an augmentation or decline of oocyte number and fertility at older age, respectively. Liver-specific ablation of FGF21, which resulted in a reduction of 87% in circulating FGF21, abrogated the preserving effect of low-protein intake on primordial follicle pool. Interestingly, FGF21 had no direct effect on the activation of primordial follicles, but instead required an adipokine adiponectin. Moreover, AdipoRon, an oral adiponectin receptor agonist, prevented the over-activation effect of excessive protein intake on primordial follicle activation. Interpretation Dietary protein consumption controlled ovarian primordial follicle reserve and fertility, which required coordination between FGF21 and adiponectin. Fund Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant 31772616).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Zhuo
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory for Animal Disease-Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education of China, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Lun Hua
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory for Animal Disease-Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education of China, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Bin Feng
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory for Animal Disease-Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education of China, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Xuemei Jiang
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory for Animal Disease-Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education of China, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Jing Li
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory for Animal Disease-Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education of China, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Dandan Jiang
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory for Animal Disease-Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education of China, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Xiaohua Huang
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory for Animal Disease-Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education of China, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Yingguo Zhu
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory for Animal Disease-Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education of China, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Zhen Li
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory for Animal Disease-Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education of China, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Lijun Yan
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory for Animal Disease-Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education of China, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Chao Jin
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory for Animal Disease-Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education of China, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Lianqiang Che
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory for Animal Disease-Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education of China, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Zhengfeng Fang
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory for Animal Disease-Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education of China, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Yan Lin
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory for Animal Disease-Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education of China, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Shengyu Xu
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - Jian Li
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China
| | - De Wu
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China; Key Laboratory for Animal Disease-Resistant Nutrition of the Ministry of Education of China, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, PR China.
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Martin JJ, Woods DC, Tilly JL. Implications and Current Limitations of Oogenesis from Female Germline or Oogonial Stem Cells in Adult Mammalian Ovaries. Cells 2019; 8:E93. [PMID: 30696098 PMCID: PMC6407002 DOI: 10.3390/cells8020093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
A now large body of evidence supports the existence of mitotically active germ cells in postnatal ovaries of diverse mammalian species, including humans. This opens the possibility that adult stem cells naturally committed to a germline fate could be leveraged for the production of female gametes outside of the body. The functional properties of these cells, referred to as female germline or oogonial stem cells (OSCs), in ovaries of women have recently been tested in various ways, including a very recent investigation of the differentiation capacity of human OSCs at a single cell level. The exciting insights gained from these experiments, coupled with other data derived from intraovarian transplantation and genetic tracing analyses in animal models that have established the capacity of OSCs to generate healthy eggs, embryos and offspring, should drive constructive discussions in this relatively new field to further exploring the value of these cells to the study, and potential management, of human female fertility. Here, we provide a brief history of the discovery and characterization of OSCs in mammals, as well as of the in-vivo significance of postnatal oogenesis to adult ovarian function. We then highlight several key observations made recently on the biology of OSCs, and integrate this information into a broader discussion of the potential value and limitations of these adult stem cells to achieving a greater understanding of human female gametogenesis in vivo and in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica J Martin
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Dori C Woods
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Jonathan L Tilly
- Laboratory of Aging and Infertility Research, Department of Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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Abstract
It has long been accepted that the complement of follicles within the ovary is formed before birth in humans, or shortly after birth in rodents, and that no follicles are formed thereafter. This follows entry of all oogonia into meiosis in fetal life, with no remaining germ stem cells in the ovary, in contrast to the presence of spermatogonia in the testis. This has been brought back into debate in recent years, following the demonstration of isolation of cells expressing both germline and stem markers from the postnatal ovary in several species, including humans. We describe these cells as putative ovarian stem cells. Isolation of these cells is challenging, adding to the debate as to their existence, and the validity of DDX4 as the main marker used for their isolation has also to be questioned. While different groups have used varying techniques and indeed terminology to describe these cells, the body of evidence regarding their initial characterization after isolation is growing. There remain very limited data regarding their developmental potential, but the demonstration of the production of functional oocytes from induced pluripotent stem cells and the advances in ovarian follicle culture techniques provide a basis for such studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- E E Telfer
- a Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences , University of Edinburgh , Edinburgh , UK
| | - R A Anderson
- b MRC Centre for Reproductive Health , Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh , Edinburgh , UK
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Bhartiya D, Patel H, Sharma D. Heterogeneity of Stem Cells in the Ovary. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1169:213-223. [PMID: 31487026 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-24108-7_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Every organ in the body is thought to harbor two populations of stem cells, including the quiescent and the actively dividing, that leads to heterogeneity among them. It is generally believed that the ovary harbors a fixed number of follicles at birth that differentiate during fetal development from the primordial germ cells. The numbers of follicles decrease by age, leading to menopause. However, in 2004, it was suggested that ovary may harbor stem cells that are possibly involved in the formation of new follicles throughout reproductive life. Research over little more than a decade shows that ovarian stem cells include a quiescent population of very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) and slightly bigger, actively dividing ovarian stem cells (OSCs). This heterogeneity among ovarian stem cells is similar to the presence of VSELs along with spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) in the testis or hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) in the hematopoietic system. VSELs express embryonic markers, including nuclear OCT-4, and are lodged in the ovary surface epithelium (OSE). Ovarian VSELs undergo asymmetric cell division to self-renew and give rise to OSCs that in turn undergo symmetric cell divisions and clonal expansion (germ cell nest) followed by meiosis to form an oocyte that gets assembled as a primordial follicle. Both VSELs and OSCs also express receptors for follicle-stimulating hormone (FSHR) and are directly activated by FSH to undergo neo-oogenesis and primordial follicle assembly. Whether stimulation of ovaries by FSH in Infertility Clinics activates the stem cells leading to the formation of multiple follicles needs further investigation. Epithelial cells lining the surface of ovary provide a niche to the stem cells under normal circumstances and undergo epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) to form granulosa cells for primordial follicle assembly. Compromised function of the epithelial cells with age possibly leads to inability of stem cells to form follicles, leading to menopause. More than 90% of ovarian cancers arise in the OSE, possibly due to excessive self-renewal of VSELs. Altered biology of the OSE cells results in the formation of myofibroblasts by EMT and may provide a cancerous niche that supports excessive expansion of the stem cells lodged in the OSE, leading to ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer cells express markers like OCT-4 and FSHR, which are also expressed by the VSELs lodged in the OSE, whereas the epithelial cells are distinctly negative for the same. Lot more research is required in the field to gain further understanding of ovarian stem cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, India.
| | - Hiren Patel
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, India
| | - Diksha Sharma
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, India
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