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Tomsia M, Cieśla J, Śmieszek J, Florek S, Macionga A, Michalczyk K, Stygar D. Long-term space missions' effects on the human organism: what we do know and what requires further research. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1284644. [PMID: 38415007 PMCID: PMC10896920 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1284644] [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: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Space has always fascinated people. Many years have passed since the first spaceflight, and in addition to the enormous technological progress, the level of understanding of human physiology in space is also increasing. The presented paper aims to summarize the recent research findings on the influence of the space environment (microgravity, pressure differences, cosmic radiation, etc.) on the human body systems during short-term and long-term space missions. The review also presents the biggest challenges and problems that must be solved in order to extend safely the time of human stay in space. In the era of increasing engineering capabilities, plans to colonize other planets, and the growing interest in commercial space flights, the most topical issues of modern medicine seems to be understanding the effects of long-term stay in space, and finding solutions to minimize the harmful effects of the space environment on the human body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Tomsia
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Forensic Toxicology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Julia Cieśla
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Joanna Śmieszek
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Szymon Florek
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Agata Macionga
- School of Medicine in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Michalczyk
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Dominika Stygar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
- SLU University Animal Hospital, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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2
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Palazzese L, Turri F, Anzalone DA, Saragusty J, Bonnet J, Colotte M, Tuffet S, Pizzi F, Luciani A, Matsukawa K, Czernik M, Loi P. Reviving vacuum-dried encapsulated ram spermatozoa via ICSI after 2 years of storage. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1270266. [PMID: 38098985 PMCID: PMC10720722 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1270266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Freeze-drying techniques give alternative preservation mammalian spermatozoa without liquid nitrogen. However, most of the work has been conducted in the laboratory mouse, while little information has been gathered on large animals that could also benefit from this kind of storage. Methods This work adapted a technique known as vacuum-drying encapsulation (VDE), originally developed for nucleic acid conservation in anhydrous state, to ram spermatozoa, and compared it to canonical lyophilization (FD), testing long-term storage at room temperature (RT) and 4°C. Results and discussion The results demonstrated better structural stability, namely lipid composition and DNA integrity, in VDE spermatozoa than FD ones, with outcomes at RT storage comparable to 4°C. Likewise, in VDE the embryonic development was higher than in FD samples (12.8% vs. 8.7%, p < 0.001, respectively). Our findings indicated that in large mammals, it is important to consider dehydration-related changes in sperm polyunsaturated fatty acids coupled with DNA alterations, given their crucial role in embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Palazzese
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Federica Turri
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology (IBBA), National Research Council (CNR), Lodi, Italy
| | | | - Joseph Saragusty
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Jacques Bonnet
- Laboratoire de Recherche et Développement, Imagene Company, Pessac, France
- Institut Bergonié, INSERM, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Marthe Colotte
- Plateforme de Production, Imagene, Genopole, Evry, France
| | - Sophie Tuffet
- Plateforme de Production, Imagene, Genopole, Evry, France
| | - Flavia Pizzi
- Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology (IBBA), National Research Council (CNR), Lodi, Italy
| | - Alessia Luciani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Marta Czernik
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Pasqualino Loi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
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3
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Wakayama S, Kikuchi Y, Soejima M, Hayashi E, Ushigome N, Yamazaki C, Suzuki T, Shimazu T, Yamamori T, Osada I, Sano H, Umehara M, Hasegawa A, Mochida K, Yang LL, Emura R, Kazama K, Imase K, Kurokawa Y, Sato Y, Higashibata A, Matsunari H, Nagashima H, Ogura A, Kohda T, Wakayama T. Effect of microgravity on mammalian embryo development evaluated at the International Space Station. iScience 2023; 26:108177. [PMID: 38107876 PMCID: PMC10725056 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian embryos differentiate into the inner cell mass (ICM) and trophectoderm at the 8-16 cell stage. The ICM forms a single cluster that develops into a single fetus. However, the factors that determine differentiation and single cluster formation are unknown. Here we investigated whether embryos could develop normally without gravity. As the embryos cannot be handled by an untrained astronaut, a new device was developed for this purpose. Using this device, two-cell frozen mouse embryos launched to the International Space Station were thawed and cultured by the astronauts under microgravity for 4 days. The embryos cultured under microgravity conditions developed into blastocysts with normal cell numbers, ICM, trophectoderm, and gene expression profiles similar to those cultured under artificial-1 g control on the International Space Station and ground-1 g control, which clearly demonstrated that gravity had no significant effect on the blastocyst formation and initial differentiation of mammalian embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayaka Wakayama
- Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Kikuchi
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Mariko Soejima
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Erika Hayashi
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Natsuki Ushigome
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | | | - Tomomi Suzuki
- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, Tsukuba 305-8505, Japan
| | - Toru Shimazu
- Space Utilization Promotion Department, Japan Space Forum, Tokyo 101-0062, Japan
| | - Tohru Yamamori
- Space Utilization Promotion Department, Japan Space Forum, Tokyo 101-0062, Japan
| | - Ikuko Osada
- Japan Manned Space Systems Corporation, Tokyo 100-0004, Japan
| | - Hiromi Sano
- Japan Manned Space Systems Corporation, Tokyo 100-0004, Japan
| | - Masumi Umehara
- Advanced Engineering Services Co., Ltd, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0032, Japan
| | - Ayumi Hasegawa
- RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Keiji Mochida
- RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Li Ly Yang
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Rina Emura
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Kousuke Kazama
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Kenta Imase
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Yuna Kurokawa
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Yoshimasa Sato
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | | | - Hitomi Matsunari
- Laboratory of Developmental Engineering, Department of Life Sciences, School of Agriculture, Meiji University, Kawasaki, Japan
- Meiji University International Institute for Bio-Resource Research (MUIIBR), Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Nagashima
- Laboratory of Developmental Engineering, Department of Life Sciences, School of Agriculture, Meiji University, Kawasaki, Japan
- Meiji University International Institute for Bio-Resource Research (MUIIBR), Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Atsuo Ogura
- RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Takashi Kohda
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Teruhiko Wakayama
- Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
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4
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Yang LL, Ito D, Ushigome N, Wakayama S, Ooga M, Wakayama T. A novel, simplified method to prepare and preserve freeze-dried mouse sperm in plastic microtubes. J Reprod Dev 2023; 69:198-205. [PMID: 37357399 PMCID: PMC10435530 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2023-034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Although freeze-drying sperm can save space, reduce maintenance costs, and facilitate the transportation of genetic samples, the current method requires breakable, custom-made, and expensive glass ampoules. In the present study, we developed a simple and economical method for collecting freeze-dried (FD) sperm using commercially available plastic microtubes. Mouse epididymal sperm suspensions were placed in 1.5 ml polypropylene tubes, frozen in liquid nitrogen, and dried in an acrylic freeze-drying chamber, after which they were closed under a vacuum. The drying duration did not differ between the microtube and glass ampoule methods (control); however, the sperm recovery rate was higher using the microtube method, and the physical damage to the sperm after rehydration was also reduced. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) using FD sperm stored in microtubes at -30°C yielded healthy offspring without reducing the success rate, even after 9 months of storage. Air infiltration into all microtubes stored at room temperature (RT) within 2 weeks of storage caused a drastic decrease in the fertilization rate of FD sperm; underwater storage did not prevent air infiltration. RT storage of FD sperm in microtubes for 1 week resulted in healthy offspring after ICSI (5-18%), but the addition of silica gel or CaCl2 did not improve the success rate. Our novel microtube method is currently the simplest and most effective method for treating FD sperm, contributing to the development of alternative low-cost approaches for preserving and transporting genetic resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Ly Yang
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Daiyu Ito
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Natsuki Ushigome
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Sayaka Wakayama
- Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Ooga
- Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Azabu University, Kanagawa 252-5201, Japan
| | - Teruhiko Wakayama
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
- Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
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Jain V, Chuva de Sousa Lopes SM, Benotmane MA, Verratti V, Mitchell RT, Stukenborg JB. Human development and reproduction in space-a European perspective. NPJ Microgravity 2023; 9:24. [PMID: 36973260 PMCID: PMC10042989 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-023-00272-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This review summarises key aspects of the first reproductive and developmental systems Science Community White Paper, supported by the European Space Agency (ESA). Current knowledge regarding human development and reproduction in space is mapped to the roadmap. It acknowledges that sex and gender have implications on all physiological systems, however, gender identity falls outside the scope of the document included in the white paper collection supported by ESA. The ESA SciSpacE white papers on human developmental and reproductive functions in space aim to reflect on the implications of space travel on the male and female reproductive systems, including the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) reproductive hormone axis, and considerations for conception, gestation and birth. Finally, parallels are drawn as to how this may impact society as a whole on Earth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varsha Jain
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | | | - Vittore Verratti
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, "G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Rod T Mitchell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Royal Hospital for Children and Young People, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jan-Bernd Stukenborg
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, Solna, Sweden.
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6
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Theotokis P, Manthou ME, Deftereou TE, Miliaras D, Meditskou S. Addressing Spaceflight Biology through the Lens of a Histologist-Embryologist. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13020588. [PMID: 36836946 PMCID: PMC9965490 DOI: 10.3390/life13020588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Embryogenesis and fetal development are highly delicate and error-prone processes in their core physiology, let alone if stress-associated factors and conditions are involved. Space radiation and altered gravity are factors that could radically affect fertility and pregnancy and compromise a physiological organogenesis. Unfortunately, there is a dearth of information examining the effects of cosmic exposures on reproductive and proliferating outcomes with regard to mammalian embryonic development. However, explicit attention has been given to investigations exploring discrete structures and neural networks such as the vestibular system, an entity that is viewed as the sixth sense and organically controls gravity beginning with the prenatal period. The role of the gut microbiome, a newly acknowledged field of research in the space community, is also being challenged to be added in forthcoming experimental protocols. This review discusses the data that have surfaced from simulations or actual space expeditions and addresses developmental adaptations at the histological level induced by an extraterrestrial milieu.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paschalis Theotokis
- Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Maria Eleni Manthou
- Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Dimosthenis Miliaras
- Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Soultana Meditskou
- Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Correspondence:
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7
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Thiangthientham P, Kallayanathum W, Anakkul N, Suwimonteerabutr J, Santiviparat S, Techakumphu M, Loi P, Tharasanit T. Effects of freeze-drying on the quality and fertilising ability of goat sperm recovered from different parts of the epididymis. Theriogenology 2023; 195:31-39. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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8
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Palazzese L, Czernik M, Matsukawa K, Loi P. Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer Using Freeze-Dried Protaminized Donor Nuclei. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2647:211-224. [PMID: 37041337 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3064-8_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) is the only nuclear reprogramming method that allows rewinding an adult nucleus into a totipotent state. As such, it offers excellent opportunities for the multiplication of elite genotypes or endangered animals, whose number have shrunk to below the threshold of safe existence. Disappointingly, SCNT efficiency is still low. Hence, it would be wise to store somatic cells from threatened animals in biobanks. We were the first to show that freeze-dried cells allow generating blastocysts upon SCNT. Only a few papers have been published on the topic since then, and viable offspring have not been produced. On the other hand, lyophilization of mammalian spermatozoa has made considerable progress, partially due to the physical stability that protamines provide to the genome. In our previous work, we have demonstrated that a somatic cell could be made more amenable to the oocyte reprogramming by the exogenous expression of human Protamine 1. Given that the protamine also provides natural protection against dehydration stress, we have combined the cell protaminization and lyophilization protocols. This chapter comprehensively describes the protocol for somatic cell protaminization, lyophilization, and its application in SCNT. We are confident that our protocol will be relevant for establishing somatic cells stocks amenable to reprogramming at low cost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Palazzese
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Jastrzebiec, Poland
| | - Marta Czernik
- Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Jastrzebiec, Poland
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Pasqualino Loi
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy.
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9
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Comizzoli P, Amelkina O, Lee PC. Damages and stress responses in sperm cells and other germplasms during dehydration and storage at nonfreezing temperatures for fertility preservation. Mol Reprod Dev 2022; 89:565-578. [PMID: 36370428 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23651] [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: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Long-term preservation of sperm, oocytes, and gonadal tissues at ambient temperatures has the potential to lower the costs and simplify biobanking in human reproductive medicine, as well as for the management of animal populations. Over the past decades, different dehydration protocols and long-term storage solutions at nonfreezing temperatures have been explored, mainly for mammalian sperm cells. Oocytes and gonadal tissues are more challenging to dehydrate so little to no progress have been made. Currently, the detrimental effects of the drying process itself are better characterized than the impact of long-term storage at nonfreezing temperatures. While structural and functional properties of germ cells can be preserved after dehydration, a long list of damages and stresses in nuclei, organelles, and cytoplasmic membranes have been reported and sometimes mitigated. Characterizing those damages and better understanding the response of germ cells and tissues to the stress of dehydration is fundamental. It will contribute to the development of optimal protocols while proving the safety of alternative storage options for fertility preservation. The objective of this review is to (1) document the types of damages and stress responses, as well as their mitigation in cells dried with different techniques, and (2) propose new research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Veterinary Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Olga Amelkina
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Veterinary Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Pei-Chih Lee
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Veterinary Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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10
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Production of mouse offspring from zygotes fertilized with freeze-dried spermatids. Sci Rep 2022; 12:18430. [PMID: 36319672 PMCID: PMC9626645 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-22850-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Mouse cloning by nuclear transfer using freeze-drying (FD) somatic cells is now possible, but the success rate is significantly lower than that of FD spermatozoa. Because spermatozoa, unlike somatic cells, are haploid cells with hardened nuclei due to protamine, the factors responsible for their tolerance to FD treatment remain unclear. In this study, we attempt to produce offspring from FD spermatid, a haploid sperm progenitor cell whose nuclei, like somatic cells, have not yet been replaced by protamine. We developed a method for collecting FD spermatids from testicular suspension. Despite the significantly lower success rate than that of FD spermatozoa, healthy offspring were obtained when FD spermatids were injected into oocytes. Offspring were also obtained from FD spermatids derived from immature male mice that had not yet produced spermatozoa. These results suggest that nuclear protaminization, rather than haploid nuclei, is one of the key processes responsible for tolerance to FD treatment.
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11
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Briski O, Salamone DF. Past, present and future of ICSI in livestock species. Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 246:106925. [PMID: 35148927 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2022.106925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
During the past 2 decades, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) has become a routine technique for clinical applications in humans. The widespread use among domestic species, however, has been limited to horses. In horses, ICSI is used to reproduce elite individuals and, as well as in humans, to mitigate or even circumvent reproductive barriers. Failures in superovulation and conventional in vitro fertilization (IVF) have been the main reason for the use of this technology in horses. In pigs, ICSI has been successfully used to produce transgenic animals. A series of factors have resulted in implementation of ICSI in pigs: need to use zygotes for numerous technologies, complexity of collecting zygotes surgically, and problems of polyspermy when there is utilization of IVF procedures. Nevertheless, there have been very few additional reports confirming positive results with the use of ICSI in pigs. The ICSI procedure could be important for use in cattle of high genetic value by maximizing semen utilization, as well as for utilization of spermatozoa from prepubertal bulls, by providing the opportunity to shorten the generation interval. When attempting to utilize ICSI in ruminants, there are some biological limitations that need to be overcome if this procedure is going to be efficacious for making genetic improvements in livestock in the future. In this review article, there is an overview and projection of the methodologies and applications that are envisioned for ICSI utilization in these species in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Briski
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Agronomía, Departamento de Producción Animal, Buenos Aires, Laboratorio Biotecnología Animal (LabBA), Av. San Martin 4453, Ciudad Autónoma de, Buenos Aires 1417, Argentina; CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Animal (INPA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - D F Salamone
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Agronomía, Departamento de Producción Animal, Buenos Aires, Laboratorio Biotecnología Animal (LabBA), Av. San Martin 4453, Ciudad Autónoma de, Buenos Aires 1417, Argentina; CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Animal (INPA), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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12
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Ogneva IV. Single Cell in a Gravity Field. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:1601. [PMID: 36295035 PMCID: PMC9604728 DOI: 10.3390/life12101601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The exploration of deep space or other bodies of the solar system, associated with a long stay in microgravity or altered gravity, requires the development of fundamentally new methods of protecting the human body. Most of the negative changes in micro- or hypergravity occur at the cellular level; however, the mechanism of reception of the altered gravity and transduction of this signal, leading to the formation of an adaptive pattern of the cell, is still poorly understood. At the same time, most of the negative changes that occur in early embryos when the force of gravity changes almost disappear by the time the new organism is born. This review is devoted to the responses of early embryos and stem cells, as well as terminally differentiated germ cells, to changes in gravity. An attempt was made to generalize the data presented in the literature and propose a possible unified mechanism for the reception by a single cell of an increase and decrease in gravity based on various deformations of the cortical cytoskeleton.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina V Ogneva
- Cell Biophysics Laboratory, State Scientific Center of the Russian Federation Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 76a, Khoroshevskoyoe Shosse, 123007 Moscow, Russia
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13
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Wakayama S, Soejima M, Kikuchi Y, Hayashi E, Ushigome N, Hasegawa A, Mochida K, Suzuki T, Yamazaki C, Shimazu T, Sano H, Umehara M, Matsunari H, Ogura A, Nagashima H, Wakayama T. Development of a new device for manipulating frozen mouse 2-cell embryos on the International Space Station. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0270781. [PMID: 36206235 PMCID: PMC9543944 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Whether mammalian embryos develop normally under microgravity remains to be determined. However, embryos are too small to be handled by inexperienced astronauts who orbit Earth on the International Space Station (ISS). Here we describe the development of a new device that allows astronauts to thaw and culture frozen mouse 2-cell embryos on the ISS without directly contacting the embryos. First, we developed several new devices using a hollow fiber tube that allows thawing embryo without practice and observations of embryonic development. The recovery rate of embryos was over 90%, and its developmental rate to the blastocyst were over 80%. However, the general vitrification method requires liquid nitrogen, which is not available on the ISS. Therefore, we developed another new device, Embryo Thawing and Culturing unit (ETC) employing a high osmolarity vitrification method, which preserves frozen embryos at −80°C for several months. Embryos flushed out of the ETC during thawing and washing were protected using a mesh sheet. Although the recovery rate of embryos after thawing were not high (24%-78%) and embryonic development in ETC could not be observed, thawed embryos formed blastocysts after 4 days of culture (29%-100%) without direct contact. Thus, this ETC could be used for untrained astronauts to thaw and culture frozen embryos on the ISS. In addition, this ETC will be an important advance in fields such as clinical infertility and animal biotechnology when recovery rate of embryos were improved nearly 100%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayaka Wakayama
- Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
- * E-mail: (SW); (TW)
| | - Mariko Soejima
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Kikuchi
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Erika Hayashi
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Natsuki Ushigome
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Ayumi Hasegawa
- RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Keiji Mochida
- RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | | | | | - Toru Shimazu
- Space Utilization Promotion Department, Japan Space Forum, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiromi Sano
- Japan Manned Space Systems Corporation, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masumi Umehara
- Advanced Engineering Services Co., Ltd, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Hitomi Matsunari
- Laboratory of Developmental Engineering, Department of Life Sciences, School of Agriculture, Meiji University, Kawasaki, Japan
- Meiji University International Institute for Bio-Resource Research (MUIIBR), Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Atsuo Ogura
- RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Nagashima
- Laboratory of Developmental Engineering, Department of Life Sciences, School of Agriculture, Meiji University, Kawasaki, Japan
- Meiji University International Institute for Bio-Resource Research (MUIIBR), Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Teruhiko Wakayama
- Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, Japan
- * E-mail: (SW); (TW)
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14
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Ahrari K, Omolaoye TS, Goswami N, Alsuwaidi H, du Plessis SS. Effects of space flight on sperm function and integrity: A systematic review. Front Physiol 2022; 13:904375. [PMID: 36035496 PMCID: PMC9402907 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.904375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
With the advancement in space exploration and the intention to establish an inhabitable human settlement on Mars, it is important to investigate the effects of exposure to space/microgravity and the associated radiations on procreation. Sperm function and integrity are fundamental to male reproduction and can potentially be affected by the environmental changes experienced in space. Therefore, this study was conducted to systematically gather, filter, and collate all the relevant information on the effects of spaceflight on male reproductive parameters and functions. A search was performed utilizing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Data were extracted from the major electronic databases including PubMed, and other credible literature sources. MeSH search terms that were employed included “spermatozoa”, “microgravity”, and “ionizing radiation”. The literature search did not discriminate against papers published before a certain date due to the very limited number of articles available. However, there was a restriction on the male gender and language (English). The parameters included in this study are sperm motility, total sperm count, sperm DNA fragmentation hormonal levels and testicular histology. Following a comprehensive literature search, a total of 273 articles were retrieved and screened, 252 articles were excluded due to the irrelevance to the topic, duplication, and non-original articles. A total of 21 articles met the inclusion criteria and are included in the current study. Findings from these studies showed that sperm motility was decreased after exposure to microgravity and ionizing radiation. Total sperm count was also found to be reduced by microgravity only. Sperm DNA fragmentation was increased by both ionizing radiation and microgravity. Testosterone levels and testicular weight were also decreased by microgravity. Although there is a dearth in the literature regarding the effects of microgravity and ionizing radiation on male reproductive parameters, the available findings showed that exposure to microgravity poses a risk to male reproductive health. Therefore, it is essential to develop countermeasures to either manage, treat, or prevent these consequential adverse effects. Hence, this review also highlights some potential countermeasure approaches that may mitigate the harmful effects of microgravity and associated exposures on male reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khulood Ahrari
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Temidayo S. Omolaoye
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- *Correspondence: Temidayo S. Omolaoye,
| | - Nandu Goswami
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Gravitational Physiology and Medicine Research Unit, Division of Physiology, Otto Loewi Research Center of Vascular Biology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Hanan Alsuwaidi
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Stefan S. du Plessis
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
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15
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Wakayama S, Ito D, Hayashi E, Ishiuchi T, Wakayama T. Healthy cloned offspring derived from freeze-dried somatic cells. Nat Commun 2022; 13:3666. [PMID: 35790715 PMCID: PMC9256722 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-31216-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Maintaining biodiversity is an essential task, but storing germ cells as genetic resources using liquid nitrogen is difficult, expensive, and easily disrupted during disasters. Our aim is to generate cloned mice from freeze-dried somatic cell nuclei, preserved at -30 °C for up to 9 months after freeze drying treatment. All somatic cells died after freeze drying, and nucleic DNA damage significantly increased. However, after nuclear transfer, we produced cloned blastocysts from freeze-dried somatic cells, and established nuclear transfer embryonic stem cell lines. Using these cells as nuclear donors for re-cloning, we obtained healthy cloned female and male mice with a success rate of 0.2-5.4%. Here, we show that freeze-dried somatic cells can produce healthy, fertile clones, suggesting that this technique may be important for the establishment of alternative, cheaper, and safer liquid nitrogen-free bio-banking solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayaka Wakayama
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, 400-8510, Japan. .,Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, 400-8510, Japan.
| | - Daiyu Ito
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, 400-8510, Japan
| | - Erika Hayashi
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, 400-8510, Japan
| | - Takashi Ishiuchi
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, 400-8510, Japan
| | - Teruhiko Wakayama
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, 400-8510, Japan. .,Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, 400-8510, Japan.
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16
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Hayashi E, Wakayama S, Ito D, Hasegawa A, Mochida K, Ooga M, Ogura A, Wakayama T. Mouse in vivo-derived late 2-cell embryos have higher developmental competence after high osmolality vitrification and -80°C preservation than IVF or ICSI embryos. J Reprod Dev 2022; 68:118-124. [PMID: 34980785 PMCID: PMC8979799 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2021-115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian embryos are most commonly cryopreserved in liquid nitrogen; however, liquid nitrogen is not available in special environments, such as the International Space Station (ISS), and
vitrified embryos must be stored at −80°C. Recently, the high osmolarity vitrification (HOV) method was developed to cryopreserve mouse 2-cell stage embryos at −80°C; however, the
appropriate embryo is currently unknown. In this study, we compared the vitrification resistance of in vivo-derived, in vitro fertilization (IVF)-derived,
and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)-derived mouse 2-cell embryos against cryopreservation at −80°C. The ICSI embryos had lower survival rates after warming and significantly lower
developmental rates than the in vivo and IVF embryos. Further, IVF embryos had a lower survival rate after warming, but a similar rate to the in vivo
embryos to full-term development. This result was confirmed by simultaneous vitrification of in vivo and IVF embryos in the same cryotube using identifiable green
fluorescent protein-expressing embryos. We also evaluated the collection timing of the in vivo embryos from the oviduct and found that late 2-cell embryos had higher
survival and developmental rates to full-term than early 2-cell embryos. Some early 2-cell embryos remained in the S-phase, whereas most late 2-cell embryos were in the G2-phase, which may
have affected the tolerance to embryo vitrification. In conclusion, when embryos must be cryopreserved under restricted conditions, such as the ISS, in vivo fertilized
embryos collected at the late 2-cell stage without long culture should be employed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Hayashi
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Sayaka Wakayama
- Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Daiyu Ito
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Ayumi Hasegawa
- RIKEN BioResource Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0074, Japan
| | - Keiji Mochida
- RIKEN BioResource Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0074, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Ooga
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Atsuo Ogura
- RIKEN BioResource Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0074, Japan
| | - Teruhiko Wakayama
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan.,Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
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17
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USHIGOME N, WAKAYAMA S, YAMAJI K, ITO D, OOGA M, WAKAYAMA T. Production of offspring from vacuum-dried mouse spermatozoa and assessing the effect of drying conditions on sperm DNA and embryo development. J Reprod Dev 2022; 68:262-270. [PMID: 35676029 PMCID: PMC9334318 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2022-048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Freeze-dried sperm (FD sperm) are of great value because they can be stored at room temperature for long periods of time, However, the birth rate of offspring derived from FD sperm is low
and the step in the freeze-drying process particularly responsible for low offspring production remains unknown. In this study, we determined whether the drying process was responsible for
the low success rate of offspring by producing vacuum-dried sperm (VD sperm), using mouse spermatozoa dried in a vacuum without being frozen. Transfer of embryos fertilized with VD sperm to
recipients resulted in the production of several successful offspring. However, the success rate was slightly lower than that of FD sperm. The volume, temperature, and viscosity of the
medium were optimized to improve the birth rate. The results obtained from a comet assay indicated that decreasing the drying rate reduced the extent of DNA damage in VD sperm. Furthermore,
even though the rate of blastocyst formation increased upon fertilization with VD sperm, full-term development was not improved. Analysis of chromosomal damage at the two-cell stage through
an abnormal chromosome segregation (ACS) assay revealed that reduction in the drying rate failed to prevent chromosomal damage. These results indicate that the lower birth rate of offspring
from FD sperm may result from the drying process rather than the freezing process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natsuki USHIGOME
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu 400-8510, Japan
| | - Sayaka WAKAYAMA
- Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Kofu 400-8510, Japan
| | - Kango YAMAJI
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu 400-8510, Japan
| | - Daiyu ITO
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu 400-8510, Japan
| | - Masatoshi OOGA
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu 400-8510, Japan
| | - Teruhiko WAKAYAMA
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu 400-8510, Japan
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18
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Kikuchi Y, Wakayama S, Ito D, Ooga M, Wakayama T. Optimised CO2-containing medium for in vitro culture and transportation of mouse preimplantation embryos without CO2 incubator. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0260645. [PMID: 34941870 PMCID: PMC8699615 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Conventional in vitro culture and manipulation of mouse embryos require a CO2 incubator, which not only increases the cost of performing experiments but also hampers the transport of embryos to the other laboratories. In this study, we established and tested a new CO2 incubator-free embryo culture system and transported embryos using this system. Using an Anaero pouch, which is a CO2 gas-generating agent, to increase the CO2 partial pressure of CZB medium to 4%–5%, 2-cell embryos were cultured to the blastocyst stage in a sealed tube without a CO2 incubator at 37°C. Further, the developmental rate to blastocyst and full-term development after embryo transfer were comparable with those of usual culture method using a CO2 incubator (blastocyst rate: 97% versus 95%, respectively; offspring rate: 30% versus 35%, respectively). Furthermore, using a thermal bottle, embryos were reliably cultured using this system for up to 2 days at room temperature, and live offspring were obtained from embryos transported in this simple and very low-cost manner without reducing the offspring rate (thermal bottle: 26.2% versus CO2 incubator: 34.3%). This study demonstrates that CO2 incubators are not essential for embryo culture and transportation and that this system provides a useful, low-cost alternative for mouse embryo culture and manipulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuyuki Kikuchi
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, Japan
| | - Sayaka Wakayama
- Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, Japan
| | - Daiyu Ito
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Ooga
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, Japan
| | - Teruhiko Wakayama
- Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, Japan
- * E-mail:
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19
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Alekseev VR. Study of the Biological Dormancy of Aquatic Organisms in Open Space and Space Flight Conditions. BIOL BULL+ 2021. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062359021060030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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20
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A successful protocol for achieving anhydrobiosis of Gallus Gallus Domesticus spermatozoa while maintaining their fertility IN VIVO. Cryobiology 2021; 104:102-106. [PMID: 34780791 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2021.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Lyophilization of avian semen is a new method for gene pool preservation. The goal of this study was to develop a protocol for the lyophilization of rooster semen with preserved fertility. Red Rhode Island rooster ejaculates (n = 20) were assessed by volume, motility, and concentration of spermatozoa. They were pooled and diluted 1:1 with a medium LCM-T20 containing trehalose (9.5 mM), exposed at 5 °C for 40 min and centrifuged, and then the supernatant was removed. Media LCM-T with trehalose (1.75 M) was added and exposed for 10 min. The semen was frozen in a thin layer in glass vials. Samples were lyophilized for 2 h at -150 … -50 °C. The water content of the samples after lyophilization was 6.1 ± 0.5% (CV 20%). The sample was rehydrated with a medium LCM-GA5 containing hyaluronic acid (40mg/100 mL media). The total motility of the spermatozoa was 1.0 ± 0.3%. From artificial insemination of virgin hens (n = 12) with rehydrated semen, one fertilized egg was obtained from eight laid eggs. All samples of perivitelline membranes of the obtained eggs had points of interaction with the spermatozoa (7-37 pcs/cm2), which confirmed the presence of viable rehydrated spermatozoa in the genital tract of the hen. To create a dry biobank for poultry, the first protocol for lyophilization of rooster semen was developed to ensure sperm fertility in vivo.
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21
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Freeze Drying as a Method of Long-Term Conservation of Mammalian Semen – A Review. ANNALS OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.2478/aoas-2020-0122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
With the development of biotechnological methods that allow the manipulation and free exchange of genetic material, the methods for collecting and storing such material need to be improved. To date, freezing in liquid nitrogen has allowed the storage of cells and entire plant and animal tissues for practically unlimited times. However, alternatives are still being sought to eliminate the constant need to maintain samples at a low temperature. Lyophilization or freeze drying is an alternative to standard freezing procedures. The storage of samples (lyophilisates) does not require specialised equipment but only refines the preservation method itself. In the case of cells capable of movement e.g., sperm, they lose the ability to reach the oocyte in vivo and for in vitro fertilization (IVF) because of the lyophilization process. However, freeze-dried sperm may be used for in vitro fertilization by intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), based on the results obtained in cleavage, embryo development and the production of live born offspring after embryo transfer. Studies on the lyophilization of sperm have been performed on many animal species, both in the laboratory and in livestock. This conservation method is considered to create biobanks for genetically valuable and endangered species with the simultaneous application of ICSI. This review article aimed to present the issues of the freeze-drying process of mammalian semen and help find solutions that will improve this technique of the long-term preservation of biological material.
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22
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Ito D, Wakayama S, Emura R, Ooga M, Wakayama T. Mailing viable mouse freeze-dried spermatozoa on postcards. iScience 2021; 24:102815. [PMID: 34471856 PMCID: PMC8390851 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Freeze-drying techniques allow the preservation of mammalian spermatozoa without using liquid nitrogen. However, the current method requires the use of glass ampoules, which are breakable, expensive, and bulky to store or transport. In this study, we evaluated whether mouse freeze-dried (FD) spermatozoa can be preserved and transported on thin materials. In this study, we demonstrated that FD sperm can be preserved in thin plastic sheets. Its DNA integrity was comparable to that of glass ampoule spermatozoa, and healthy offspring were obtained after preservation at -30°C for more than 3 months. We attached preserved FD sperm to postcards, and transported these to other laboratory inexpensively at room temperatures without any protection. This method will facilitate the preservation of thousands of mouse strains in a single card holder, promote collaboration between laboratories, conservation of genetic resources, and assisted reproductive technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiyu Ito
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu 400-8510, Japan
| | - Sayaka Wakayama
- Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Kofu 400-8510, Japan
| | - Rina Emura
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu 400-8510, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Ooga
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu 400-8510, Japan
| | - Teruhiko Wakayama
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu 400-8510, Japan.,Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Kofu 400-8510, Japan
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23
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Bossi RDL, Cabral M, Oliveira M, Lopes S, Hurtado R, Sampaio M, Geber S. Ultrastructural analysis of Lyophilized Human Spermatozoa. JBRA Assist Reprod 2021; 25:473-479. [PMID: 34286941 PMCID: PMC8312306 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20210028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Lyophilization is potentially more practical and cost-effective alternative for sperm preservation. However, there are no studies that evaluate the ultrastructure of human spermatozoa after lyophilization. Therefore, the aim of our study was to evaluate the ultrasctructure of lyophilized spermatozoa using Transmission Electron Microscopy. Methods: From a total of 21 donated seminal samples, 30 aliquots were originated and divided into two aliquots so that one could have been submitted to cryopreservation/thaw and the other for lyophilization/rehydration. The liquefied aliquots were homogenized at room temperature. Samples assigned for cryopreservation were placed in straws and samples assigned for lyophilization were placed in the appropriate vials. Cryopreservation samples were placed at -30oC for 30 minutes subsequently for 30 minutes at vapour phase and then plunged into liquid nitrogen. Lately, were warmed in water bath at 37oC for 10 minutes followed by 10 minutes centrifugation. The pellet was resuspended and analysed in a Makler chamber. The semen vials assigned for lyophilization were loaded into a pre-fixed freeze-drying chamber. Following lyophilization, vials were removed from the freeze-drying chamber and kept at 4oC until rehydration. TEM was performed after rehydration and thawing. Sperm samples were fixed, rinsed in buffer, post fixed and dehydration was carried out in escalating concentrations of alcohol solution, acetone and then, embedding in Epon resin. Ultrathin sections were stained and examined in a Transmission Electron Microscope. Results: Analysis of sperm after freezing/thawing using Transmission Electron Microscopy showed lesions to the midpiece, with some mitochondria degeneration and random rupture of plasma membrane. In the head, we identified intact plasma membrane, nucleus and acrosome, as in the flagellum all main structures remained intact including the plasma membrane, the longitudinal columns of dense fibers and the semicircular fibers. Analysis by Transmission Electron Microscopy showed that spermatozoa heads had ruptured plasma membranes, absence of acrosomes, nuclei with heterogeneous and decompressed chromatin. Mitochondria were deteriorated in the midpiece. Longitudinal columns of dense fibers were absent in the flagellum. Axonemes, in cross-sections, were disrupted with disorganized structures. Conclusions: To our knowledge, our study demonstrated, for the first time, the structure of the human spermatozoa after lyophilization using Transmission Electron Microscopy. The use of a fixed lyophilization protocol with media containing cryoprotectants might explain the damage to the structures. More studies are necessary to improve the results of sperm lyophilization. In the future, the use of lyophilization of spermatozoa might reduce the costs of fertility preservation, since there will be no need for storage space and transportation is simpler.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata de Lima Bossi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the Medical School, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,ORIGEN, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Cabral
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the Medical School, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Monica Oliveira
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Sávia Lopes
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Hurtado
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the Medical School, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,ORIGEN, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Marcos Sampaio
- ORIGEN, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Selmo Geber
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the Medical School, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,ORIGEN, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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24
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Intergenerational effect of short-term spaceflight in mice. iScience 2021; 24:102773. [PMID: 34278272 PMCID: PMC8271179 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
As space travel becomes more accessible, it is important to understand the effects of spaceflight including microgravity, cosmic radiation, and psychological stress. However, the effect on offspring has not been well studied in mammals. Here we investigated the effect of 35 days spaceflight on male germ cells. Male mice that had experienced spaceflight exhibit alterations in binding of transcription factor ATF7, a regulator of heterochromatin formation, on promoter regions in testis, as well as altered small RNA expression in spermatozoa. Offspring of space-traveling males exhibit elevated hepatic expression of genes related to DNA replication. These results indicate that spaceflight has intergenerational effect.
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25
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Wakayama S, Ito D, Kamada Y, Shimazu T, Suzuki T, Nagamatsu A, Araki R, Ishikawa T, Kamimura S, Hirose N, Kazama K, Yang L, Inoue R, Kikuchi Y, Hayashi E, Emura R, Watanabe R, Nagatomo H, Suzuki H, Yamamori T, Tada MN, Osada I, Umehara M, Sano H, Kasahara H, Higashibata A, Yano S, Abe M, Kishigami S, Kohda T, Ooga M, Wakayama T. Evaluating the long-term effect of space radiation on the reproductive normality of mammalian sperm preserved on the International Space Station. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:7/24/eabg5554. [PMID: 34117068 PMCID: PMC8195474 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abg5554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Space radiation may cause DNA damage to cells and concern for the inheritance of mutations in offspring after deep space exploration. However, there is no way to study the long-term effects of space radiation using biological materials. Here, we developed a method to evaluate the biological effect of space radiation and examined the reproductive potential of mouse freeze-dried spermatozoa stored on the International Space Station (ISS) for the longest period in biological research. The space radiation did not affect sperm DNA or fertility after preservation on ISS, and many genetically normal offspring were obtained without reducing the success rate compared to the ground-preserved control. The results of ground x-ray experiments showed that sperm can be stored for more than 200 years in space. These results suggest that the effect of deep space radiation on mammalian reproduction can be evaluated using spermatozoa, even without being monitored by astronauts in Gateway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayaka Wakayama
- Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan.
| | - Daiyu Ito
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Yuko Kamada
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Toru Shimazu
- Space Utilization Promotion Department, Japan Space Forum, Tokyo 101-0062, Japan
| | - Tomomi Suzuki
- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, Tsukuba 305-8505, Japan
| | - Aiko Nagamatsu
- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, Tsukuba 305-8505, Japan
| | - Ryoko Araki
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences for Radiation Damages, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Takahiro Ishikawa
- Department of Accelerator and Medical Physics, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kamimura
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences for Radiation Damages, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Naoki Hirose
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Kousuke Kazama
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Li Yang
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Rei Inoue
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Kikuchi
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Erika Hayashi
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Rina Emura
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Ren Watanabe
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Nagatomo
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Hiromi Suzuki
- Space Utilization Promotion Department, Japan Space Forum, Tokyo 101-0062, Japan
| | - Tohru Yamamori
- Space Utilization Promotion Department, Japan Space Forum, Tokyo 101-0062, Japan
| | - Motoki N Tada
- Japan Manned Space Systems Corporation, Tokyo 100-0004, Japan
| | - Ikuko Osada
- Japan Manned Space Systems Corporation, Tokyo 100-0004, Japan
| | - Masumi Umehara
- Advanced Engineering Services Co. Ltd, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0032, Japan
| | - Hiromi Sano
- Japan Manned Space Systems Corporation, Tokyo 100-0004, Japan
| | - Haruo Kasahara
- Japan Manned Space Systems Corporation, Tokyo 100-0004, Japan
| | | | - Sachiko Yano
- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, Tsukuba 305-8505, Japan
| | - Masumi Abe
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences for Radiation Damages, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kishigami
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Takashi Kohda
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Ooga
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Teruhiko Wakayama
- Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan.
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
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Longenecker G, Cho K, Khillan J, Kulkarni AB. Cryopreservation Protocols for Genetically Engineered Mice. Curr Protoc 2021; 1:e138. [PMID: 34043268 PMCID: PMC8211118 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Protocols for cryopreservation of mouse embryos and sperm are important for preserving genetically engineered mice (GEMs) used in research to study human development and diseases. Embryo cryopreservation is mainly carried out using either of two protocols: controlled gradual cooling or vitrification. Sperm cryopreservation protocols include two methodologies that are commonly referred to as JAX and CARD. Quality-control measures are necessary to ensure that GEMs are properly cryopreserved so that they can be retrieved for future use. An archiving system is also important in keeping proper records of frozen sperm and embryos. Frozen embryos and sperm are now preferred over live mice for shipping to distant locations. This article describes detailed protocols used in cryopreservation of mouse embryos and sperm, as well as their retrieval to live mice. © 2021 U.S. Government. Sperm cryopreservation Basic Protocol 1: JAX protocol for sperm cryopreservation Support Protocol 1: JAX protocol for making sperm cryopreservation medium Basic Protocol 2: JAX protocol for IVF of mouse sperm Alternate Protocol 1: Modified CARD protocol for sperm cryopreservation Support Protocol 2: CARD protocol for making sperm cryopreservation medium Alternate Protocol 2: CARD protocol for IVF of mouse sperm Embryo cryopreservation Basic Protocol 3: Cryopreserving and thawing 2-cell embryos Alternate Protocol 3: Cryopreserving and thawing 8-cell to morula-stage embryos Surgical transfer of embryos Basic Protocol 4: Infundibulum transfer of 2-cell to morula-stage embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glenn Longenecker
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kyoungin Cho
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jaspal Khillan
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ashok B. Kulkarni
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Voggenreiter T, Laport E, Kahn-Schapowal B, Lang J, Schenkel J. Simulation of Air Travel-Related Irradiation Exposure of Cryopreserved Mouse Germplasm Samples. Biopreserv Biobank 2021; 19:280-286. [PMID: 33646019 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2020.0046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryopreservation of genetically modified mouse lines prevents the loss of specific mutants that are of enormous scientific value for both basic and applied research. Cryopreservation of spermatozoa or preimplantation embryos enables discontinuation of breeding as well as archiving of specific lines for future studies. Regarding active inter-laboratory exchange of mutants, cryopreserved material is more advantageous to transport than live animals. However, transportation stress should not be trivialized. Security scanning of transport boxes at airports and customs, in particular, as well as additional cosmic radiation, pose a threat to undefined dosages of irradiation exposure. To simulate this, cryopreserved samples of mouse spermatozoa and preimplantation embryos were exposed to an X-ray dosage of 1 mGy in an X-ray machine. For subsequent investigation of the cell integrity of irradiated spermatozoa and embryos, spermatozoa forward motility as well as embryo developmental capacity and apoptosis values were examined and compared with nonirradiated control samples. The percentage of forward-moving spermatozoa per sample appears to be significantly reduced after irradiation exposure. The in vitro developmental capacity of preimplantation embryos as well as their relative share of apoptotic cells do not seem to be influenced by irradiation exposure. This leads to the assumption that, at least in preimplantation embryos, X-ray dosages of 1 mGy do not induce sudden severe cellular harm. Nevertheless, stochastic effects of ionizing irradiation, such as mutations, do not have a dosage threshold and always represent the potential danger of alterations to cells and cellular components, especially the DNA. This could lead to undefined mutations inducing genetic drift, in the worst case to the loss of a mutant line. We therefore strongly recommend minimizing "transportation stress," in particular by irradiation exposure, to keep its potential consequences in mind, and to standardize shipping procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elke Laport
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Cryopreservation, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Barbara Kahn-Schapowal
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Radiation Protection and Dosimetry, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jens Lang
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Radiation Protection and Dosimetry, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Johannes Schenkel
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Cryopreservation, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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Proshchina A, Gulimova V, Kharlamova A, Krivova Y, Besova N, Berdiev R, Saveliev S. Reproduction and the Early Development of Vertebrates in Space: Problems, Results, Opportunities. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:109. [PMID: 33572526 PMCID: PMC7911118 DOI: 10.3390/life11020109] [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: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Humans and animals adapt to space flight conditions. However, the adaptive changes of fully formed organisms differ radically from the responses of vertebrate embryos, foetuses, and larvae to space flight. Development is associated with active cell proliferation and the formation of organs and systems. The instability of these processes is well known. Over 20 years has passed since the last systematic experiments on vertebrate reproduction and development in space flight. At the same time, programs are being prepared for the exploration of Mars and the Moon, which justifies further investigations into space flight's impact on vertebrate development. This review focuses on various aspects of reproduction and early development of vertebrates in space flights. The results of various experiments on fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals are described. The experiments in which our team took part and ontogeny of the vertebrate nervous and special sensory systems are considered in more detail. Possible causes of morphological changes are also discussed. Research on evolutionarily and taxonomically different models can advance the understanding of reproduction in microgravity. Reptiles, in particular, geckos, due to their special features, can be a promising object of space developmental biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Proshchina
- Research Institute of Human Morphology, Ministry of Science and Higher Education RF, Tsurupi Street, 3, 117418 Moscow, Russia; (V.G.); (A.K.); (Y.K.); (N.B.); (S.S.)
| | - Victoria Gulimova
- Research Institute of Human Morphology, Ministry of Science and Higher Education RF, Tsurupi Street, 3, 117418 Moscow, Russia; (V.G.); (A.K.); (Y.K.); (N.B.); (S.S.)
| | - Anastasia Kharlamova
- Research Institute of Human Morphology, Ministry of Science and Higher Education RF, Tsurupi Street, 3, 117418 Moscow, Russia; (V.G.); (A.K.); (Y.K.); (N.B.); (S.S.)
| | - Yuliya Krivova
- Research Institute of Human Morphology, Ministry of Science and Higher Education RF, Tsurupi Street, 3, 117418 Moscow, Russia; (V.G.); (A.K.); (Y.K.); (N.B.); (S.S.)
| | - Nadezhda Besova
- Research Institute of Human Morphology, Ministry of Science and Higher Education RF, Tsurupi Street, 3, 117418 Moscow, Russia; (V.G.); (A.K.); (Y.K.); (N.B.); (S.S.)
| | - Rustam Berdiev
- Research and Educational Center for Wild Animal Rehabilitation, Faculty of Biology, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory, 1/12, 119899 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Sergey Saveliev
- Research Institute of Human Morphology, Ministry of Science and Higher Education RF, Tsurupi Street, 3, 117418 Moscow, Russia; (V.G.); (A.K.); (Y.K.); (N.B.); (S.S.)
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Boada M, Perez-Poch A, Ballester M, García-Monclús S, González DV, García S, Barri PN, Veiga A. Microgravity effects on frozen human sperm samples. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:2249-2257. [PMID: 32683528 PMCID: PMC7492354 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01877-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Microgravity has severe effects on cellular and molecular structures as well as on metabolic interactions. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of microgravity (μg) exposure on human frozen sperm samples. METHODS Sibling samples from 15 normozoospermic healthy donors were frozen using glycerol as cryoprotectant and analyzed under microgravity and ground conditions. Microgravity was obtained by parabolic flights using a CAP10B plane. The plane executed 20 parabolic maneuvers with a mean of 8.5 s of microgravity for each parabola. RESULTS Frozen sperm samples preserved in cryostraws and stored in a secure and specific nitrogen vapor cryoshipper do not suffer significant alterations after μg exposure. Comparing the study group (μg) and the control group (1 g), similar results were obtained in the main parameters studied: sperm motility (M/ml) 13.72 ± 12.57 vs 13.03 ± 12.13 (- 0.69 95% CI [- 2.9; 1.52]), progressive a + b sperm motility (%) 21.83 ± 11.69 vs 22.54 ± 12.83 (0.03 95% CI [- 0.08; 0.15]), sperm vitality (%) 46.42 ± 10.81 vs 44.62 ± 9.34 (- 0.04 95% CI [- 0.13; 0.05]), morphologically normal spermatozoa (%) 7.03 ± 2.61 vs 8.09 ± 3.61 (0.12 95% CI [0.01; 0.24]), DNA sperm fragmentation by SCD (%) 13.33 ± 5.12 vs 13.88 ± 6.14 (0.03 95% CI [- 0.09; 0.16]), and apoptotic spermatozoa by MACS (%) 15.47 ± 15.04 vs 23.80 ± 23.63 (- 0.20 95% CI [- 0.66; 1.05]). CONCLUSION The lack of differences obtained between frozen samples exposed to μg and those maintained in ground conditions provides the possibility of considering the safe transport of human male gametes to space. Nevertheless, further research is needed to validate the results and to consider the possibility of creating a human sperm bank outside the Earth. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03760783.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Boada
- Women's Health Dexeus, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Avinguda Carles III 71-75, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - A Perez-Poch
- Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, UPC BarcelonaTech, EEBE Campus Diagonal-Besòs, C. E. Maristany 16, 08019, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Ballester
- Women's Health Dexeus, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Avinguda Carles III 71-75, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - S García-Monclús
- Women's Health Dexeus, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Avinguda Carles III 71-75, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - D V González
- Aeroclub Barcelona-Sabadell, Sabadell Airport, Carretera de Bellaterra s/n, 08205 Sabadell, Barcelona, Spain
| | - S García
- Women's Health Dexeus, Unit of Biostatistics, Avinguda Carles III 71-75, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - P N Barri
- Women's Health Dexeus, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Avinguda Carles III 71-75, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Veiga
- Women's Health Dexeus, Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Avinguda Carles III 71-75, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
- Barcelona Stem Cell Bank, Centre of Regenerative Medicine in Barcelona, Hospital Duran i Reynals, Gran Via de l'Hospitalet 199, 08908 Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
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Sperm Motility of Mice under Simulated Microgravity and Hypergravity. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21145054. [PMID: 32709012 PMCID: PMC7404272 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21145054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
For deep space exploration, reproductive health must be maintained to preserve the species. However, the mechanisms underlying the effect of changes in gravity on male germ cells remain poorly understood. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of simulated micro- and hypergravity on mouse sperm motility and the mechanisms of this change. For 1, 3 and 6 h, mouse sperm samples isolated from the caudal epididymis were subjected to simulated microgravity using a random position machine and 2g hypergravity using a centrifuge. The experimental samples were compared with static and dynamic controls. The sperm motility and the percentage of motile sperm were determined using microscopy and video analysis, cell respiration was determined by polarography, the protein content was assessed by Western blotting and the mRNA levels were determined using qRT-PCR. The results indicated that hypergravity conditions led to more significant changes than simulated microgravity conditions: after 1 h, the speed of sperm movement decreased, and after 3 h, the number of motile cells began to decrease. Under the microgravity model, the speed of movement did not change, but the motile spermatozoa decreased after 6 h of exposure. These changes are likely associated with a change in the structure of the microtubule cytoskeleton, and changes in the energy supply are an adaptive reaction to changes in sperm motility.
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Radiation Response of Murine Embryonic Stem Cells. Cells 2020; 9:cells9071650. [PMID: 32660081 PMCID: PMC7408589 DOI: 10.3390/cells9071650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
To understand the mechanisms of disturbed differentiation and development by radiation, murine CGR8 embryonic stem cells (mESCs) were exposed to ionizing radiation and differentiated by forming embryoid bodies (EBs). The colony forming ability test was applied for survival and the MTT test for viability determination after X-irradiation. Cell cycle progression was determined by flow cytometry of propidium iodide-stained cells, and DNA double strand break (DSB) induction and repair by γH2AX immunofluorescence. The radiosensitivity of mESCs was slightly higher compared to the murine osteoblast cell line OCT-1. The viability 72 h after X-irradiation decreased dose-dependently and was higher in the presence of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF). Cells exposed to 2 or 7 Gy underwent a transient G2 arrest. X-irradiation induced γH2AX foci and they disappeared within 72 h. After 72 h of X-ray exposure, RNA was isolated and analyzed using genome-wide microarrays. The gene expression analysis revealed amongst others a regulation of developmental genes (Ada, Baz1a, Calcoco2, Htra1, Nefh, S100a6 and Rassf6), downregulation of genes involved in glycolysis and pyruvate metabolism whereas upregulation of genes related to the p53 signaling pathway. X-irradiated mESCs formed EBs and differentiated toward cardiomyocytes but their beating frequencies were lower compared to EBs from unirradiated cells. These results suggest that X-irradiation of mESCs deregulate genes related to the developmental process. The most significant biological processes found to be altered by X-irradiation in mESCs were the development of cardiovascular, nervous, circulatory and renal system. These results may explain the X-irradiation induced-embryonic lethality and malformations observed in animal studies.
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32
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Silyukova YL, Stanishevskaya OI, Dementieva NV. The current state of the problem of in vitro gene pool preservation in poultry. Vavilovskii Zhurnal Genet Selektsii 2020; 24:176-184. [PMID: 33659797 PMCID: PMC7716548 DOI: 10.18699/vj20.611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
This review presents the current progress in and approaches to in vitro conservation of reproductive
cells of animals, including birds, such as cryopreservation and freeze-drying, as well as epigenetic conditions for
restoring
viable spermatozoa and female gametes after conservation. Cryopreservation is an effective way to preserve
reproductive cells of various species of animals and birds. In vitro gene pool conservation is aimed primarily
to the restoration of extinct breeds and populations and to the support of genetic diversity in populations prone
to genetic drift. It is the combination of ex situ in vivo and ex situ in vitro methods that can form the basic principles
of the strategy of animal genetic diversity preservation. Also, use of cryopreserved semen allows faster breeding
in industrial poultry farming. Despite numerous advances in semen cryobiology, new methods that can more efficiently
restore semen fertility after cryopreservation are being sought. The mechanisms underlying the effect of
cryopreservation on the semen parameters of cocks are insufficiently understood. The review reflects the results
of recent research in the field of cryopreservation of female and male germ cells, embryonic cells, the search for
new ways in the field of genetic diversity in vitro (the development of new cryoprotective media and new conservation
technologies: freeze-drying). Molecular aspects of cryopreservation and the mechanisms of cryopreservation
influence on the epigenetic state of cells are highlighted. Data on the results of studies in the field of male
reproductive cell lyophilization are presented. The freeze-drying of reproductive cells, as a technology for cheaper
access to the genetic material of wild and domestic animals, compared to cryopreservation, attracts the attention
of scientists in Japan, Israel, Egypt, Spain, and France. There is growing interest in the use of lyophilized semen
in genetic engineering technologies. Methods of freeze-drying are developed taking into account the species of
birds. Organizational and legal ways of solving the problems of in vitro conservation of genetic resources of farm
animals, including birds, are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y L Silyukova
- Russian Research Institute of Farm Animal Genetics and Breeding - Branch of the L.K. Ernst Federal Science Center for Animal Husbandry, Pushkin, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - O I Stanishevskaya
- Russian Research Institute of Farm Animal Genetics and Breeding - Branch of the L.K. Ernst Federal Science Center for Animal Husbandry, Pushkin, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - N V Dementieva
- Russian Research Institute of Farm Animal Genetics and Breeding - Branch of the L.K. Ernst Federal Science Center for Animal Husbandry, Pushkin, St. Petersburg, Russia
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Lei X, Cao Y, Ma B, Zhang Y, Ning L, Qian J, Zhang L, Qu Y, Zhang T, Li D, Chen Q, Shi J, Zhang X, Ma C, Zhang Y, Duan E. Development of mouse preimplantation embryos in space. Natl Sci Rev 2020; 7:1437-1446. [PMID: 34691539 PMCID: PMC8288510 DOI: 10.1093/nsr/nwaa062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 02/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of life beyond planet Earth is a long-standing quest of the human race, but whether normal mammalian embryonic development can occur in space is still unclear. Here, we show unequivocally that preimplantation mouse embryos can develop in space, but the rate of blastocyst formation and blastocyst quality are compromised. Additionally, the cells in the embryo contain severe DNA damage, while the genome of the blastocysts developed in space is globally hypomethylated with a unique set of differentially methylated regions. The developmental defects, DNA damage and epigenetic abnormalities can be largely mimicked by the treatment with ground-based low-dose radiation. However, the exposure to simulated microgravity alone does not cause major disruptions of embryonic development, indicating that radiation is the main cause for the developmental defects. This work advances the understanding of embryonic development in space and reveals long-term extreme low-dose radiation as a hazardous factor for mammalian reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohua Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yujing Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Baohua Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University/Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Yunfang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Lina Ning
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Jingjing Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Liwen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yongcun Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of Technical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 100049, China
| | - Dehong Li
- Division of Ionizing Radiation, National Institute of Metrology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Qi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Junchao Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Xudong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Chiyuan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Enkui Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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Furukawa S, Nagamatsu A, Nenoi M, Fujimori A, Kakinuma S, Katsube T, Wang B, Tsuruoka C, Shirai T, Nakamura AJ, Sakaue-Sawano A, Miyawaki A, Harada H, Kobayashi M, Kobayashi J, Kunieda T, Funayama T, Suzuki M, Miyamoto T, Hidema J, Yoshida Y, Takahashi A. Space Radiation Biology for "Living in Space". BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:4703286. [PMID: 32337251 PMCID: PMC7168699 DOI: 10.1155/2020/4703286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Space travel has advanced significantly over the last six decades with astronauts spending up to 6 months at the International Space Station. Nonetheless, the living environment while in outer space is extremely challenging to astronauts. In particular, exposure to space radiation represents a serious potential long-term threat to the health of astronauts because the amount of radiation exposure accumulates during their time in space. Therefore, health risks associated with exposure to space radiation are an important topic in space travel, and characterizing space radiation in detail is essential for improving the safety of space missions. In the first part of this review, we provide an overview of the space radiation environment and briefly present current and future endeavors that monitor different space radiation environments. We then present research evaluating adverse biological effects caused by exposure to various space radiation environments and how these can be reduced. We especially consider the deleterious effects on cellular DNA and how cells activate DNA repair mechanisms. The latest technologies being developed, e.g., a fluorescent ubiquitination-based cell cycle indicator, to measure real-time cell cycle progression and DNA damage caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation are presented. Progress in examining the combined effects of microgravity and radiation to animals and plants are summarized, and our current understanding of the relationship between psychological stress and radiation is presented. Finally, we provide details about protective agents and the study of organisms that are highly resistant to radiation and how their biological mechanisms may aid developing novel technologies that alleviate biological damage caused by radiation. Future research that furthers our understanding of the effects of space radiation on human health will facilitate risk-mitigating strategies to enable long-term space and planetary exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Furukawa
- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, 2-1-1 Sengen, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8505, Japan
| | - Aiko Nagamatsu
- Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, 2-1-1 Sengen, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8505, Japan
| | - Mitsuru Nenoi
- National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Akira Fujimori
- National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Shizuko Kakinuma
- National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Takanori Katsube
- National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Bing Wang
- National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Chizuru Tsuruoka
- National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Shirai
- National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Asako J. Nakamura
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Ibaraki University, 2-1-1, Bunkyo, Mito, Ibaraki 310-8512, Japan
| | - Asako Sakaue-Sawano
- Lab for Cell Function and Dynamics, CBS, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Atsushi Miyawaki
- Lab for Cell Function and Dynamics, CBS, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Harada
- Radiation Biology Center, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Yoshida Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Minoru Kobayashi
- Radiation Biology Center, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Yoshida Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Junya Kobayashi
- Radiation Biology Center, Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Yoshida Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Takekazu Kunieda
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Tomoo Funayama
- Takasaki Advanced Radiation Research Institute, QST, 1233 Watanuki-machi, Takasaki, Gunma 370-1292, Japan
| | - Michiyo Suzuki
- Takasaki Advanced Radiation Research Institute, QST, 1233 Watanuki-machi, Takasaki, Gunma 370-1292, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Miyamoto
- Research Institute for Radiation Biology and Medicine, Hiroshima University, Kasumi 1-2-3, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8553, Japan
| | - Jun Hidema
- Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, 2-1-1 Katahira, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8577, Japan
- Division for the Establishment of Frontier Sciences of the Organization for Advanced Studies, Tohoku University, 2-1-1 Katahira, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8577, Japan
| | - Yukari Yoshida
- Gunma University Heavy Ion Medical Center, 3-39-22 Showa-machi, Maebashi, Gunma 371-8511, Japan
| | - Akihisa Takahashi
- Gunma University Heavy Ion Medical Center, 3-39-22 Showa-machi, Maebashi, Gunma 371-8511, Japan
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Yamamoto Y, Hirose N, Kamimura S, Wakayama S, Ito J, Ooga M, Wakayama T. Production of mouse offspring from inactivated spermatozoa using horse PLCζ mRNA. J Reprod Dev 2019; 66:67-73. [PMID: 31852860 PMCID: PMC7040210 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2019-043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Improving artificial oocyte activation is essential for assisted reproduction or animal biotechnology that can obtain healthy offspring with a high success rate. Here, we examined whether
intracytoplasmic injection of equine sperm-specific phospholipase C zeta (ePLCζ) mRNA, the PLCζ with the strongest oocyte activation potential in mammals, could improve the mouse oocyte
activation rate and subsequent embryonic development using inactivated spermatozoa. mRNA of mouse PLCζ (mPLCζ) or ePLCζ were injected into mouse oocytes to determine the optimal mRNA
concentration to maximize the oocyte activation rate and developmental rate of parthenogenetic embryos in vitro. Full-term development was examined using NaOH-treated
inactive spermatozoa using the optimal activation method. We found that the most optimal ePLCζ mRNA concentration was 0.1 ng/µl for mouse oocyte activation, which was ten times stronger than
mPLCζ mRNA. The concentration did not affect parthenogenetic embryo development in vitro. Relatively normal blastocysts were obtained with the same developmental rate
(52–53% or 48–51%, respectively) when inactive spermatozoa were injected into activated oocytes using ePLCζ or mPLCζ mRNA injection. However, the birth rate after embryo transfer was
slightly but significantly decreased in oocytes activated by ePLCζ mRNA (24%) compared to mPLCζ mRNA (37%) or strontium treatment (40%) activation. These results suggest that the higher
activation rate does not always correlate the higher birth rate, and some mechanisms might exist in the oocyte activation process that could affect the later developmental stages like
full-term development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunosuke Yamamoto
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Naoki Hirose
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kamimura
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan.,Present: Department of Basic Medical Sciences for Radiation Damages, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Sayaka Wakayama
- Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Junya Ito
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Azabu University, Kanagawa 252-5201, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Ooga
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
| | - Teruhiko Wakayama
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan.,Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan
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Abstract
Extended travel in deep space poses potential hazards to the reproductive function of female and male astronauts, including exposure to cosmic radiation, microgravity, increased gravity (hypergravity), psychological stress, physical stress and circadian rhythm disruptions. This Review focuses on the effects of microgravity, hypergravity and cosmic radiation. Cosmic radiation contains protons, helium nuclei and high charge and energy (HZE) particles. Studies performed on Earth in which rodents were exposed to experimentally generated HZE particles have demonstrated a high sensitivity of ovarian follicles and spermatogenic cells to HZE particles. Exposure to microgravity during space flight and to simulated microgravity on Earth disrupts spermatogenesis and testicular testosterone synthesis in rodents, whereas the male reproductive system seems to adapt to exposure to moderate hypergravity. A few studies have investigated the effects of microgravity on female reproduction, with findings of disrupted oestrous cycling and in vitro follicle development being cause for concern. Many remaining data gaps need to be addressed, including the effects of microgravity, hypergravity and space radiation on the male and female reproductive tracts, hypothalamic-pituitary regulation of reproduction and prenatal development of the reproductive system as well as the combined effects of the multiple reproductive hazards encountered in space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birendra Mishra
- Department of Human Nutrition, Food and Animal Sciences, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Ulrike Luderer
- Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, Department of Medicine, Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, Program in Public Health, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA.
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Nusbaumer D, Marques da Cunha L, Wedekind C. Sperm cryopreservation reduces offspring growth. Proc Biol Sci 2019; 286:20191644. [PMID: 31551057 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2019.1644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm cryopreservation is routinely used in reproductive medicine, livestock production and wildlife management. Its effect on offspring performance is often assumed to be negligible, but this still remains to be confirmed in well-controlled within-subject experiments. We use a vertebrate model that allows us to experimentally separate parental and environmental effects to test whether sperm cryopreservation influences offspring phenotype under stress and non-stress conditions, and whether such effects are male-specific. Wild brown trout (Salmo trutta) were stripped for their gametes, and a portion of each male's milt was cryopreserved. Then, 960 eggs were simultaneously fertilized with either non-cryopreserved or frozen-thawed semen and raised singly in the presence or absence of a pathogen. We found no significant effects of cryopreservation on fertilization rates, and no effects on growth, survival nor pathogen resistance during the embryo stage. However, fertilization by cryopreserved sperm led to significantly reduced larval growth after hatching. Males varied in genetic quality as determined from offspring performance, but effects of cryopreservation on larval growth were not male-specific. We conclude that cryopreservation causes a reduction in offspring growth that is easily overlooked because it only manifests itself at later developmental stages, when many other factors affect growth and survival too.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Nusbaumer
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Claus Wedekind
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Matsumura T, Noda T, Muratani M, Okada R, Yamane M, Isotani A, Kudo T, Takahashi S, Ikawa M. Male mice, caged in the International Space Station for 35 days, sire healthy offspring. Sci Rep 2019; 9:13733. [PMID: 31551430 PMCID: PMC6760203 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-50128-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The effect on the reproductive system and fertility of living in a space environment remains unclear. Here, we caged 12 male mice under artificial gravity (≈1 gravity) (AG) or microgravity (MG) in the International Space Station (ISS) for 35 days, and characterized the male reproductive organs (testes, epididymides, and accessory glands) after their return to earth. Mice caged on earth during the 35 days served as a “ground” control (GC). Only a decrease in accessory gland weight was detected in AG and MG males; however, none of the reproductive organs showed any overt microscopic defects or changes in gene expression as determined by RNA-seq. The cauda epididymal spermatozoa from AG and MG mice could fertilize oocytes in vitro at comparable levels as GC males. When the fertilized eggs were transferred into pseudo-pregnant females, there was no significant difference in pups delivered (pups/transferred eggs) among GC, AG, and MG spermatozoa. In addition, the growth rates and fecundity of the obtained pups were comparable among all groups. We conclude that short-term stays in outer space do not cause overt defects in the physiological function of male reproductive organs, sperm function, and offspring viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takafumi Matsumura
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, 3-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.,Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 1-6 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.,Laboratory of Biopharmaceutical and Regenerative Sciences, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Life Science, Yokohama City University Association of Medical Science, 3-9 Fukuura, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 236-0004, Japan
| | - Taichi Noda
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, 3-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Masafumi Muratani
- Department of Genome Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan.,Mouse Epigenetics Project, ISS/Kibo experiment, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Risa Okada
- JEM Utilization Center, Human Spaceflight Technology Directorate, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Tsukuba Space Center, 2-1-1 Sengen, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8505, Japan
| | - Mutsumi Yamane
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, 3-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.,Center for Animal Research and Education, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8601, Japan
| | - Ayako Isotani
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, 3-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.,Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayama-cho, Ikoma, Nara, 630-0192, Japan
| | - Takashi Kudo
- Mouse Epigenetics Project, ISS/Kibo experiment, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.,Laboratory Animal Resource Center in Transborder Medical Research Center, and Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
| | - Satoru Takahashi
- Mouse Epigenetics Project, ISS/Kibo experiment, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.,Laboratory Animal Resource Center in Transborder Medical Research Center, and Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, 3-1 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan. .,Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, 1-6 Yamada-oka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan. .,Mouse Epigenetics Project, ISS/Kibo experiment, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan. .,Laboratory of Reproductive Systems Biology, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, 4-6-1 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 108-8639, Japan.
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Ito D, Wakayama S, Kamada Y, Shibasaki I, Kamimura S, Ooga M, Wakayama T. Effect of trehalose on the preservation of freeze-dried mice spermatozoa at room temperature. J Reprod Dev 2019; 65:353-359. [PMID: 31118350 PMCID: PMC6708850 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2019-058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Freeze-drying of spermatozoa is a convenient and safe method to preserve mammalian genetic material without the use of liquid nitrogen or a deep freezer. However, freeze-dried spermatozoa
(FD sperm) are not frequently used because of the low success rate of offspring after intracytoplasmic spermatozoa injection (ICSI). In this study, we determined the optimal concentration
and a point of action of trehalose as a protectant for the preservation of FD sperm from different mouse strains at room temperature (RT). Although trehalose demonstrated no potential to
protect the FD sperm of ICR mice against the freeze-drying procedure itself, the blastocyst rate was significantly improved when FD sperm was preserved for more than 1 month at RT (56–63%
vs. 29% without trehalose). The optimal concentration of trehalose was 0.5 M. Importantly, remarkable results were obtained when spermatozoa of inbred mouse strains
(C57BL/6N, C3H/He, and 129/Sv) were used, and many offspring were obtained when FD sperm that was preserved for 3 months at RT (26–28% vs. 6–11% of without trehalose) was
used. However, when DNA damage in FD sperm was examined by gamma-H2Ax assays, it was found that trehalose failed to protect the FD sperm from DNA damage. These results suggest that trehalose
has the potential to protect other sperm factors rather than sperm DNA during preservation at RT for longer periods and trehalose is more effective for inbred mouse strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiyu Ito
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu 400-8510, Japan
| | - Sayaka Wakayama
- Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Kofu 400-8510, Japan
| | - Yuko Kamada
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu 400-8510, Japan.,Present: Kameda Medical Center, Chiba 296-8602, Japan
| | - Ikue Shibasaki
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu 400-8510, Japan.,Present: RIKEN Center for Brain Science (CBS), Wako 351-0198, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kamimura
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu 400-8510, Japan.,Present: Department of Basic Medical Sciences for Radiation Damages, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Ooga
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu 400-8510, Japan
| | - Teruhiko Wakayama
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, University of Yamanashi, Kofu 400-8510, Japan.,Advanced Biotechnology Center, University of Yamanashi, Kofu 400-8510, Japan
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40
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Tolerance of the freeze-dried mouse sperm nucleus to temperatures ranging from -196 °C to 150 °C. Sci Rep 2019; 9:5719. [PMID: 30952922 PMCID: PMC6450870 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-42062-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
It has long been believed that tolerance against extreme environments is possible only for ‘lower’ groups, such as archaea, bacteria or tardigrades, and not for more ‘advanced’ species. Here, we demonstrated that the mammalian sperm nucleus also exhibited strong tolerance to cold and hot temperatures. When mouse spermatozoa were freeze-dried (FD), similar to the anhydrobiosis of Tardigrades, all spermatozoa were ostensibly dead after rehydration. However, offspring were obtained from recovered FD sperm nuclei, even after repeated treatment with conditions from liquid nitrogen to room temperature. Conversely, when FD spermatozoa were heated at 95 °C, although the birth rate was decreased with increasing duration of the treatment, offspring were obtained even for FD spermatozoa that had been heat-treated for 2 h. This period was improved up to 6 h when glucose was replaced with trehalose in the freeze-drying medium, and the resistance temperature was extended up to 150 °C for short periods of treatment. Randomly selected offspring grew into healthy adults. Our results suggest that, when considering the sperm nucleus/DNA as the material that is used as a blueprint of life, rather than cell viability, a significant tolerance to extreme temperatures is present even in ‘higher’ species, such as mammals.
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41
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Exploring dry storage as an alternative biobanking strategy inspired by Nature. Theriogenology 2019; 126:17-27. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.11.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Yoshimoto H, Takeo T, Nakagata N. Dimethyl sulfoxide and quercetin prolong the survival, motility, and fertility of cold-stored mouse sperm for 10 days. Biol Reprod 2019; 97:883-891. [PMID: 29126179 PMCID: PMC5803767 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox144] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Technology for preserving sperm is useful for disseminating valuable male genetic traits. Cold storage is suitable for easily transporting sperm as an alternative to the shipment of live animals. However, there is a technical limitation in that the fertility of cold-stored sperm declines within 3 days. To overcome this problem, we examined the protective effects of quercetin and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). DMSO and quercetin maintained the fertility and motility of cold-stored sperm for 10 days. In addition, quercetin attenuated the reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential of cold-stored sperm during sperm preincubation, allowing the induction of capacitation, and it localized to the midpiece of sperm. Furthermore, DMSO and quercetin enhanced the level of tyrosine phosphorylation of cold-stored sperm. DMSO and quercetin have life-prolonging effects on sperm during cold storage. Cold storage using DMSO and quercetin will provide a robust system for internationally transporting valuable sperm samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidetaka Yoshimoto
- Division of Reproductive Engineering, Center for Animal Resources and Development (CARD), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Toru Takeo
- Division of Reproductive Engineering, Center for Animal Resources and Development (CARD), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Naomi Nakagata
- Division of Reproductive Engineering, Center for Animal Resources and Development (CARD), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
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Oxidative Stress as Cause, Consequence, or Biomarker of Altered Female Reproduction and Development in the Space Environment. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19123729. [PMID: 30477143 PMCID: PMC6320872 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19123729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Revised: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress has been implicated in the pathophysiology of numerous terrestrial disease processes and associated with morbidity following spaceflight. Furthermore, oxidative stress has long been considered a causative agent in adverse reproductive outcomes. The purpose of this review is to summarize the pathogenesis of oxidative stress caused by cosmic radiation and microgravity, review the relationship between oxidative stress and reproductive outcomes in females, and explore what role spaceflight-induced oxidative damage may have on female reproductive and developmental outcomes.
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44
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Kamimura S, Wakayama S, Kuwayama H, Tanabe Y, Kishigami S, Wakayama T. Generation of two-cell cloned embryos from mouse faecal cell. Sci Rep 2018; 8:14922. [PMID: 30297864 PMCID: PMC6175847 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-33304-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cloning animals using nuclear transfer (NT) provides the opportunity to preserve endangered species. However, there are risks associated with the collection of donor cells from a body, which may cause accidental death of the animal. Here, we tried to collect faeces-derived cells and examined the usability of those nuclei as a donor for NT. A relatively large number of cells could be collected from GFP-Tg mouse faeces by this method. After NT, only 4.2% of the reconstructed oocytes formed pseudo-pronucleus. This rate increased up to 25% when GFP and Hoechst were used as a marker to select better cells. However, the reconstructed oocytes/embryos showed several abnormalities, such as shrunken nuclear membranes and abnormal distribution of tubulin, and none of them developed beyond one-cell stage embryos. These developmental failures were caused by not only toxic substances derived from faeces but also intrinsic DNA damage of donor cell nuclei. However, when the serial NT was performed, some of the cloned embryos could develop to the two-cell stage. This method may remove toxic substances and enhance DNA repair in the oocyte cytoplasm. Thus, these results indicate that faeces cells might be useful for the conservation of endangered species when technical improvements are achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Kamimura
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, 400-8510, Japan. .,Department of Basic Medical Sciences for Radiation Damages, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, Chiba, 263-8555, Japan.
| | - Sayaka Wakayama
- Advanced Biotechnology Centre, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, 400-8510, Japan
| | - Hiroki Kuwayama
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, 400-8510, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Tanabe
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, 400-8510, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kishigami
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, 400-8510, Japan.,Advanced Biotechnology Centre, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, 400-8510, Japan
| | - Teruhiko Wakayama
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, 400-8510, Japan. .,Advanced Biotechnology Centre, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, 400-8510, Japan.
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45
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Probiotics into outer space: feasibility assessments of encapsulated freeze-dried probiotics during 1 month's storage on the International Space Station. Sci Rep 2018; 8:10687. [PMID: 30013086 PMCID: PMC6048169 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-29094-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Suppression of immune function during long spaceflights is an issue that needs to be overcome. The well-established probiotic Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota (LcS) could be a promising countermeasure, and we have launched a project to investigate the efficacy of its use on the International Space Station (ISS). As a first step, we developed a specialist probiotic product for space experiments, containing freeze-dried LcS in capsule form (Probiotics Package), and tested its stability through 1 month of storage on the ISS. The temperature inside the ISS ranged from 20.0 to 24.5 °C. The absorbed dose rate of the flight sample was 0.26 mGy/day and the dose equivalent rate was 0.52 mSv/day. The number of live LcS was 1.05 × 1011 colony-forming units/g powder (49.5% of the initial value) 6 months after the start of the study; this value was comparable to those in the two ground controls. Profiles of randomly amplified polymorphic DNA, sequence variant frequency, carbohydrate fermentation, reactivity to LcS-specific antibody, and the cytokine-inducing ability of LcS in the flight sample did not differ from those of the ground controls. We can therefore maintain the viability and basic probiotic properties of LcS stored as a Probiotics Package on the ISS.
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46
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Kamada Y, Wakayama S, Shibasaki I, Ito D, Kamimura S, Ooga M, Wakayama T. Assessing the tolerance to room temperature and viability of freeze-dried mice spermatozoa over long-term storage at room temperature under vacuum. Sci Rep 2018; 8:10602. [PMID: 30006561 PMCID: PMC6045625 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-28896-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Freeze-drying has been frequently used to preserve food and microorganisms at room temperature (RT) for extended periods of time; however, its application to mammalian species is difficult. Here, we developed a method to prolong the stability of freeze-dried (FD) mice spermatozoa at RT for more than one year without using any cryoprotectant agents. Our data showed that maintaining a vacuum in ampoules is critical to ensuring the viability of FD spermatozoa, as the stability of spermatozoa DNA increased when imperfectly vacuumed ampoules were detected using a non-destructive test and eliminated. Finally a large number of healthy offspring were obtained from mice oocytes fertilized with FD spermatozoa stored at RT for more than one year. Although the birth rate from three-month stored spermatozoa was lower than that from one-day stored spermatozoa, no further reduction was observed even in one-year stored spermatozoa. Therefore, FD spermatozoa preserved in this study were highly tolerant to warm temperatures. This method of storage shows a great potential for the preservation of genetic resources of mammalian species, such as genetically-modified mouse strains, without the use of electric power.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Kamada
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, 400-8510, Japan
| | - Sayaka Wakayama
- Advanced Biotechnology Centre, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, 400-8510, Japan.
| | - Ikue Shibasaki
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, 400-8510, Japan
| | - Daiyu Ito
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, 400-8510, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kamimura
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, 400-8510, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Ooga
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, 400-8510, Japan
| | - Teruhiko Wakayama
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, 400-8510, Japan. .,Advanced Biotechnology Centre, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, 400-8510, Japan.
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Ruden DM, Bolnick A, Awonuga A, Abdulhasan M, Perez G, Puscheck EE, Rappolee DA. Effects of Gravity, Microgravity or Microgravity Simulation on Early Mammalian Development. Stem Cells Dev 2018; 27:1230-1236. [PMID: 29562866 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2018.0024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Plant and animal life forms evolved mechanisms for sensing and responding to gravity on Earth where homeostatic needs require responses. The lack of gravity, such as in the International Space Station (ISS), causes acute, intra-generational changes in the quality of life. These include maintaining calcium levels in bone, maintaining muscle tone, and disturbances in the vestibular apparatus in the ears. These problems decrease work efficiency and quality of life of humans not only during microgravity exposures but also after return to higher gravity on Earth or destinations such as Mars or the Moon. It has been hypothesized that lack of gravity during mammalian development may cause prenatal, postnatal and transgenerational effects that conflict with the environment, especially if the developing organism and its progeny are returned, or introduced de novo, into the varied gravity environments mentioned above. Although chicken and frog pregastrulation development, and plant root development, have profound effects due to orientation of cues by gravity-sensing mechanisms and responses, mammalian development is not typically characterized as gravity-sensing. Although no effects of microgravity simulation (MGS) on mouse fertilization were observed in two reports, negative effects of MGS on early mammalian development after fertilization and before gastrulation are presented in four reports that vary with the modality of MGS. This review will analyze the positive and negative mammalian early developmental outcomes, and enzymatic and epigenetic mechanisms known to mediate developmental responses to simulated microgravity on Earth and microgravity during spaceflight experiments. We will update experimental techniques that have already been developed or need to be developed for zero gravity molecular, cellular, and developmental biology experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas M Ruden
- 1 Department of Ob/Gyn, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, CS Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University School of Medicine , Detroit, Michigan.,2 Institutes for Environmental Health Science, Wayne State University School of Medicine , Detroit, Michigan
| | - Alan Bolnick
- 1 Department of Ob/Gyn, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, CS Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University School of Medicine , Detroit, Michigan
| | - Awoniyi Awonuga
- 1 Department of Ob/Gyn, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, CS Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University School of Medicine , Detroit, Michigan
| | - Mohammed Abdulhasan
- 1 Department of Ob/Gyn, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, CS Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University School of Medicine , Detroit, Michigan
| | - Gloria Perez
- 3 Reproductive Stress, Inc. , Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan
| | - Elizabeth E Puscheck
- 1 Department of Ob/Gyn, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, CS Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University School of Medicine , Detroit, Michigan.,3 Reproductive Stress, Inc. , Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan
| | - Daniel A Rappolee
- 1 Department of Ob/Gyn, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, CS Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University School of Medicine , Detroit, Michigan.,2 Institutes for Environmental Health Science, Wayne State University School of Medicine , Detroit, Michigan.,3 Reproductive Stress, Inc. , Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan.,4 Department of Physiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine , Detroit, Michigan.,5 Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine , Detroit, Michigan.,6 Institutes for Environmental Health Science, Wayne State University School of Medicine , Detroit, Michigan.,7 Department of Biology, University of Windsor , Windsor, Canada
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Cortese F, Klokov D, Osipov A, Stefaniak J, Moskalev A, Schastnaya J, Cantor C, Aliper A, Mamoshina P, Ushakov I, Sapetsky A, Vanhaelen Q, Alchinova I, Karganov M, Kovalchuk O, Wilkins R, Shtemberg A, Moreels M, Baatout S, Izumchenko E, de Magalhães JP, Artemov AV, Costes SV, Beheshti A, Mao XW, Pecaut MJ, Kaminskiy D, Ozerov IV, Scheibye-Knudsen M, Zhavoronkov A. Vive la radiorésistance!: converging research in radiobiology and biogerontology to enhance human radioresistance for deep space exploration and colonization. Oncotarget 2018; 9:14692-14722. [PMID: 29581875 PMCID: PMC5865701 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.24461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
While many efforts have been made to pave the way toward human space colonization, little consideration has been given to the methods of protecting spacefarers against harsh cosmic and local radioactive environments and the high costs associated with protection from the deleterious physiological effects of exposure to high-Linear energy transfer (high-LET) radiation. Herein, we lay the foundations of a roadmap toward enhancing human radioresistance for the purposes of deep space colonization and exploration. We outline future research directions toward the goal of enhancing human radioresistance, including upregulation of endogenous repair and radioprotective mechanisms, possible leeways into gene therapy in order to enhance radioresistance via the translation of exogenous and engineered DNA repair and radioprotective mechanisms, the substitution of organic molecules with fortified isoforms, and methods of slowing metabolic activity while preserving cognitive function. We conclude by presenting the known associations between radioresistance and longevity, and articulating the position that enhancing human radioresistance is likely to extend the healthspan of human spacefarers as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franco Cortese
- Biogerontology Research Foundation, London, UK
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University School of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dmitry Klokov
- Canadian Nuclear Laboratories, Chalk River, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andreyan Osipov
- Insilico Medicine, Inc., Emerging Technology Centers, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- State Research Center - Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Jakub Stefaniak
- Biogerontology Research Foundation, London, UK
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Target Discovery Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Alexey Moskalev
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Dolgoprudny, Russia
- Laboratory of Molecular Radiobiology and Gerontology, Institute of Biology of Komi Science Center of Ural Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Syktyvkar, Russia
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology of Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Jane Schastnaya
- Insilico Medicine, Inc., Emerging Technology Centers, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Charles Cantor
- Boston University, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alexander Aliper
- Insilico Medicine, Inc., Emerging Technology Centers, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics, D. Rogachev Federal Medical Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Polina Mamoshina
- Insilico Medicine, Inc., Emerging Technology Centers, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Computer Science Department, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Igor Ushakov
- State Research Center - Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alex Sapetsky
- State Research Center - Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
| | - Quentin Vanhaelen
- Insilico Medicine, Inc., Emerging Technology Centers, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Irina Alchinova
- Laboratory of Physicochemical and Ecological Pathophysiology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, Moscow, Russia
- Research Institute for Space Medicine, Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
| | - Mikhail Karganov
- Laboratory of Physicochemical and Ecological Pathophysiology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Olga Kovalchuk
- Canada Cancer and Aging Research Laboratories, Ltd., Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
- University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ruth Wilkins
- Environmental and Radiation and Health Sciences Directorate, Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrey Shtemberg
- Laboratory of Extreme Physiology, Institute of Medical and Biological Problems RAS, Moscow, Russia
| | - Marjan Moreels
- Radiobiology Unit, Interdisciplinary Biosciences, Institute for Environment, Health and Safety, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, (SCK·CEN), Mol, Belgium
| | - Sarah Baatout
- Radiobiology Unit, Interdisciplinary Biosciences, Institute for Environment, Health and Safety, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, (SCK·CEN), Mol, Belgium
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Evgeny Izumchenko
- Insilico Medicine, Inc., Emerging Technology Centers, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- The Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Cancer Research, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - João Pedro de Magalhães
- Biogerontology Research Foundation, London, UK
- Integrative Genomics of Ageing Group, Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Artem V. Artemov
- Insilico Medicine, Inc., Emerging Technology Centers, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Afshin Beheshti
- Wyle Laboratories, Space Biosciences Division, NASA Ames Research Center, Mountain View, CA, USA
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Molecular Oncology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Xiao Wen Mao
- Department of Basic Sciences, Division of Biomedical Engineering Sciences (BMES), Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Michael J. Pecaut
- Department of Basic Sciences, Division of Biomedical Engineering Sciences (BMES), Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Dmitry Kaminskiy
- Biogerontology Research Foundation, London, UK
- Deep Knowledge Life Sciences, London, UK
| | - Ivan V. Ozerov
- Insilico Medicine, Inc., Emerging Technology Centers, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- State Research Center - Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Alex Zhavoronkov
- Biogerontology Research Foundation, London, UK
- Insilico Medicine, Inc., Emerging Technology Centers, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Kusakabe H, Tateno H. Prevention of high-temperature-induced chromosome damage in mouse spermatozoa freeze-dried using Ca 2+ chelator-containing buffer alkalinized with NaOH or KOH. Cryobiology 2017; 79:71-77. [PMID: 28863951 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2017.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Revised: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In order to protect sperm chromosomes against degradation when they are being stored for relatively high temperatures, we investigated the optimal pH of the freeze-drying solution, EGTA/Tris-HCl buffered solution alkalinized by NaOH (Na-ETBS) or KOH (K-ETBS). Mouse spermatozoa suspended in Na-ETBS or K-ETBS were freeze-dried at pH 5.0-8.4 and stored at 4 °C or 50 °C for 3 days. Some freeze-dried samples were stored at 25 °C for 3 days or 1 month. After storage, samples injected into oocytes using intracytoplasmic sperm injection were assessed for chromosome damage in resulting zygotes. Irrespective of freeze-drying solutions and storage temperatures, almost all the zygotes (97-100%) produced using the spermatozoa freeze-dried at pH 5.0 had structural chromosome aberrations of sperm origin. When freeze-drying was conducted at pH 8.0-8.4 using Na-ETBS, the incidence of chromosome damage decreased to 14-17% in 4 °C storage and 24-26% in 50 °C storage. When freeze-dried in K-ETBS, the lowest level of chromosome damage occurred at pH levels of 7.7-8.4 at 4 °C storage (13-15%) and at pH 7.7-8.0 at 50 °C storage (16-23%). Spermatozoa freeze-dried in Na-ETBS at pH 8.2 and K-ETBS at pH 7.7 showed no significant increase in chromosome damage during 25 °C storage from 3 days to 1 month (11%-20% in Na-ETBS; 13%-18% in K-ETBS). Thus, use of the solutions optimized for short-term storage at high temperature (50 °C, 3 days) permits prolonged storage (1 month) of freeze-dried spermatozoa at room temperature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirokazu Kusakabe
- Department of Biological Sciences, Asahikawa Medical University, 2-1-1-1 Midorigaoka-higashi, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan.
| | - Hiroyuki Tateno
- Department of Biological Sciences, Asahikawa Medical University, 2-1-1-1 Midorigaoka-higashi, Asahikawa, 078-8510, Japan
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