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Bellido-Quispe DK, Arcce IML, Pinzón-Osorio CA, Campos VF, Remião MH. Chemical activation of mammalian oocytes and its application in camelid reproductive biotechnologies: A review. Anim Reprod Sci 2024; 266:107499. [PMID: 38805838 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2024.107499] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Mammalian oocyte activation is a critical process occurring post-gamete fusion, marked by a sequence of cellular events initiated by an upsurge in intracellular Ca2+. This surge in calcium orchestrates the activation/deactivation of specific kinases, leading to the subsequent inactivation of MPF and MAPK activities, alongside PKC activation. Despite various attempts to induce artificial activation using distinct chemical compounds as Ca2+ inducers and/or Ca2+-independent agents, the outcomes have proven suboptimal. Notably, incomplete suppression of MPF and MAPK activities persists, necessitating a combination of different agents for enhanced efficiency. Moreover, the inherent specificity of activation methods for each species precludes straightforward extrapolation between them. Consequently, optimization of protocols for each species and for each technique, such as PA, ICSI, and SCNT, is required. Despite recent strides in camelid biotechnologies, the field has seen little advancement in chemical activation methods. Only a limited number of chemical agents have been explored, and the effects of many remain unknown. In ICSI, despite obtaining blastocysts with different chemical compounds that induce Ca2+ and calcium-independent increases, viable offspring have not been obtained. However, SCNT has exhibited varying outcomes, successfully yielding viable offspring with a reduced number of chemical activators. This article comprehensively reviews the current understanding of the physiological activation of oocytes and the molecular mechanisms underlying chemical activation in mammals. The aim is to transfer and apply this knowledge to camelid reproductive biotechnologies, with emphasis on chemical activation in PA, ICSI, and SCNT.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - César Augusto Pinzón-Osorio
- Laboratório de Fisiopatologia e Biotécnicas da Reprodução Animal (FiBRA), Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel), Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Vinicius Farias Campos
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel), Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Mariana Härter Remião
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPel), Pelotas, RS, Brazil
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2
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Villalba A. Queering the genome: ethical challenges of epigenome editing in same-sex reproduction. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2024:jme-2023-109609. [PMID: 38408852 DOI: 10.1136/jme-2023-109609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
In this article, I explore the ethical dimensions of same-sex reproduction achieved through epigenome editing-an innovative and transformative technique. For the first time, I analyse the potential normativity of this disruptive approach for reproductive purposes, focusing on its implications for lesbian couples seeking genetically related offspring. Epigenome editing offers a compelling solution to the complex ethical challenges posed by traditional gene editing, as it sidesteps genome modifications and potential long-term genetic consequences. The focus of this article is to systematically analyse the bioethical issues related to the use of epigenome editing for same-sex reproduction. I critically assess the ethical acceptability of epigenome editing with reproductive purposes from multiple angles, considering harm perspectives, the comparison of ethical issues related to gene and epigenome editing, and feminist theories. This analysis reveals that epigenome editing emerges as an ethically acceptable means for lesbian couples to have genetically related children. Moreover, the experiments of a reproductive use of epigenome editing discussed in this article transcend bioethics, shedding light on the broader societal implications of same-sex reproduction. It challenges established notions of biological reproduction and prompts a reevaluation of how we define the human embryo, while poses some issues in the context of gender self-identification and family structures. In a world that increasingly values inclusivity and diversity, this article aims to reveal a progressive pathway for reproductive medicine and bioethics, as well as underscores the need for further philosophical research in this emerging and fertile domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Villalba
- Department of Philosophy I, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
- Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, Paris, France
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3
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Lu X, Mao J, Qian C, Lei H, Mu F, Sun H, Yan S, Fang Z, Lu J, Xu Q, Dong J, Su D, Wang J, Jin N, Chen S, Wang X. High estrogen during ovarian stimulation induced loss of maternal imprinted methylation that is essential for placental development via overexpression of TET2 in mouse oocytes. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:135. [PMID: 38374066 PMCID: PMC10875811 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01516-x] [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: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ovarian stimulation (OS) during assisted reproductive technology (ART) appears to be an independent factor influencing the risk of low birth weight (LBW). Previous studies identified the association between LBW and placenta deterioration, potentially resulting from disturbed genomic DNA methylation in oocytes caused by OS. However, the mechanisms by which OS leads to aberrant DNA methylation patterns in oocytes remains unclear. METHODS Mouse oocytes and mouse parthenogenetic embryonic stem cells (pESCs) were used to investigate the roles of OS in oocyte DNA methylation. Global 5-methylcytosine (5mC) and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) levels were evaluated using immunofluorescence or colorimetry. Genome-wide DNA methylation was quantified using an Agilent SureSelectXT mouse Methyl-Seq. The DNA methylation status of mesoderm-specific transcript homologue (Mest) promoter region was analyzed using bisulfite sequencing polymerase chain reaction (BSP). The regulatory network between estrogen receptor alpha (ERα, ESR1) and DNA methylation status of Mest promoter region was further detected following the knockdown of ERα or ten-eleven translocation 2 (Tet2). RESULTS OS resulted in a significant decrease in global 5mC levels and an increase in global 5hmC levels in oocytes. Further investigation revealed that supraphysiological β-estradiol (E2) during OS induced a notable decrease in DNA 5mC and an increase in 5hmC in both oocytes and pESCs of mice, whereas inhibition of estrogen signaling abolished such induction. Moreover, Tet2 may be a direct transcriptional target gene of ERα, and through the ERα-TET2 axis, supraphysiological E2 resulted in the reduced global levels of DNA 5mC. Furthermore, we identified that MEST, a maternal imprinted gene essential for placental development, lost its imprinted methylation in parthenogenetic placentas originating from OS, and ERα and TET2 combined together to form a protein complex that may promote Mest demethylation. CONCLUSIONS In this study, a possible mechanism of loss of DNA methylation in oocyte caused by OS was revealed, which may help increase safety and reduce epigenetic abnormalities in ART procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueyan Lu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No.1, Xinsi Road, Baqiao District, Xi'an, 710000, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jiaqin Mao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No.1, Xinsi Road, Baqiao District, Xi'an, 710000, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Chenxi Qian
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No.1, Xinsi Road, Baqiao District, Xi'an, 710000, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Hui Lei
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No.1, Xinsi Road, Baqiao District, Xi'an, 710000, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Fei Mu
- Department of Pharmacy, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Huijun Sun
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No.1, Xinsi Road, Baqiao District, Xi'an, 710000, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Song Yan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No.1, Xinsi Road, Baqiao District, Xi'an, 710000, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Zheng Fang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No.1, Xinsi Road, Baqiao District, Xi'an, 710000, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jie Lu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No.1, Xinsi Road, Baqiao District, Xi'an, 710000, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Qian Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No.1, Xinsi Road, Baqiao District, Xi'an, 710000, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jie Dong
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No.1, Xinsi Road, Baqiao District, Xi'an, 710000, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Danjie Su
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No.1, Xinsi Road, Baqiao District, Xi'an, 710000, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jingjing Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No.1, Xinsi Road, Baqiao District, Xi'an, 710000, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Ni Jin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No.1, Xinsi Road, Baqiao District, Xi'an, 710000, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Shuqiang Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No.1, Xinsi Road, Baqiao District, Xi'an, 710000, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | - Xiaohong Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, No.1, Xinsi Road, Baqiao District, Xi'an, 710000, Shaanxi Province, China.
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Cowl VB, Comizzoli P, Appeltant R, Bolton RL, Browne RK, Holt WV, Penfold LM, Swegen A, Walker SL, Williams SA. Cloning for the Twenty-First Century and Its Place in Endangered Species Conservation. Annu Rev Anim Biosci 2024; 12:91-112. [PMID: 37988633 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-animal-071423-093523] [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] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Cloning as it relates to the animal kingdom generally refers to the production of genetically identical individuals. Because cloning is increasingly the subject of renewed attention as a tool for rescuing endangered or extinct species, it seems timely to dissect the role of the numerous reproductive techniques encompassed by this term in animal species conservation. Although cloning is typically associated with somatic cell nuclear transfer, the recent advent of additional techniques that allow genome replication without genetic recombination demands that the use of induced pluripotent stem cells to generate gametes or embryos, as well as older methods such as embryo splitting, all be included in this discussion. Additionally, the phenomenon of natural cloning (e.g., a subset of fish, birds, invertebrates, and reptilian species that reproduce via parthenogenesis) must also be pointed out. Beyond the biology of these techniques are practical considerations and the ethics of using cloning and associated procedures in endangered or extinct species. All of these must be examined in concert to determine whether cloning has a place in species conservation. Therefore, we synthesize progress in cloning and associated techniques and dissect the practical and ethical aspects of these methods as they pertain to endangered species conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica B Cowl
- North of England Zoological Society (Chester Zoo), Chester, United Kingdom;
- European Association of Zoos and Aquaria, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC, USA;
| | - Ruth Appeltant
- Gamete Research Centre, Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium;
| | | | - Robert K Browne
- Sustainability America, Sarteneja, Corozal District, Belize;
| | - William V Holt
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom;
| | - Linda M Penfold
- South East Zoo Alliance for Reproduction & Conservation, Yulee, Florida, USA;
| | - Aleona Swegen
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia;
| | - Susan L Walker
- North of England Zoological Society (Chester Zoo), Chester, United Kingdom;
- Nature's SAFE, Whitchurch, Shropshire, United Kingdom;
| | - Suzannah A Williams
- Nature's SAFE, Whitchurch, Shropshire, United Kingdom;
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom;
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Ramakrishnan M, Zhou M, Ceasar SA, Ali DJ, Maharajan T, Vinod KK, Sharma A, Ahmad Z, Wei Q. Epigenetic modifications and miRNAs determine the transition of somatic cells into somatic embryos. PLANT CELL REPORTS 2023; 42:1845-1873. [PMID: 37792027 DOI: 10.1007/s00299-023-03071-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
KEY MESSAGE This review discusses the epigenetic changes during somatic embryo (SE) development, highlights the genes and miRNAs involved in the transition of somatic cells into SEs as a result of epigenetic changes, and draws insights on biotechnological opportunities to study SE development. Somatic embryogenesis from somatic cells occurs in a series of steps. The transition of somatic cells into somatic embryos (SEs) is the most critical step under genetic and epigenetic regulations. Major regulatory genes such as SERK, WUS, BBM, FUS3/FUSA3, AGL15, and PKL, control SE steps and development by turning on and off other regulatory genes. Gene transcription profiles of somatic cells during SE development is the result of epigenetic changes, such as DNA and histone protein modifications, that control and decide the fate of SE formation. Depending on the type of somatic cells and the treatment with plant growth regulators, epigenetic changes take place dynamically. Either hypermethylation or hypomethylation of SE-related genes promotes the transition of somatic cells. For example, the reduced levels of DNA methylation of SERK and WUS promotes SE initiation. Histone modifications also promote SE induction by regulating SE-related genes in somatic cells. In addition, miRNAs contribute to the various stages of SE by regulating the expression of auxin signaling pathway genes (TIR1, AFB2, ARF6, and ARF8), transcription factors (CUC1 and CUC2), and growth-regulating factors (GRFs) involved in SE formation. These epigenetic and miRNA functions are unique and have the potential to regenerate bipolar structures from somatic cells when a pluripotent state is induced. However, an integrated overview of the key regulators involved in SE development and downstream processes is lacking. Therefore, this review discusses epigenetic modifications involved in SE development, SE-related genes and miRNAs associated with epigenetics, and common cis-regulatory elements in the promoters of SE-related genes. Finally, we highlight future biotechnological opportunities to alter epigenetic pathways using the genome editing tool and to study the transition mechanism of somatic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muthusamy Ramakrishnan
- State Key Laboratory of Tree Genetics and Breeding, Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Bamboo Research Institute, Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration On Subtropical Forest Biodiversity Conservation, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mingbing Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, Bamboo Industry Institute, Zhejiang A&F University, Lin'an, Hangzhou, 311300, Zhejiang, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center for Bamboo Resources and High-Efficiency Utilization, Zhejiang A&F University, Lin'an, Hangzhou, 311300, Zhejiang, China
| | - Stanislaus Antony Ceasar
- Department of Biosciences, Rajagiri College of Social Sciences (Autonomous), Kalamassery, Kochi, 683104, Kerala, India
| | - Doulathunnisa Jaffar Ali
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, Jiangsu, China
| | - Theivanayagam Maharajan
- Department of Biosciences, Rajagiri College of Social Sciences (Autonomous), Kalamassery, Kochi, 683104, Kerala, India
| | | | - Anket Sharma
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, Bamboo Industry Institute, Zhejiang A&F University, Lin'an, Hangzhou, 311300, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zishan Ahmad
- State Key Laboratory of Tree Genetics and Breeding, Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Bamboo Research Institute, Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration On Subtropical Forest Biodiversity Conservation, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qiang Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Tree Genetics and Breeding, Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Bamboo Research Institute, Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration On Subtropical Forest Biodiversity Conservation, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037, Jiangsu, China.
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6
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Zhang YR, Yin TL, Zhou LQ. CRISPR/Cas9 technology: applications in oocytes and early embryos. J Transl Med 2023; 21:746. [PMID: 37875936 PMCID: PMC10594749 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04610-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas9, a highly versatile genome-editing tool, has garnered significant attention in recent years. Despite the unique characteristics of oocytes and early embryos compared to other cell types, this technology has been increasing used in mammalian reproduction. In this comprehensive review, we elucidate the fundamental principles of CRISPR/Cas9-related methodologies and explore their wide-ranging applications in deciphering molecular intricacies during oocyte and early embryo development as well as in addressing associated diseases. However, it is imperative to acknowledge the limitations inherent to these technologies, including the potential for off-target effects, as well as the ethical concerns surrounding the manipulation of human embryos. Thus, a judicious and thoughtful approach is warranted. Regardless of these challenges, CRISPR/Cas9 technology undeniably represents a formidable tool for genome and epigenome manipulation within oocytes and early embryos. Continuous refinements in this field are poised to fortify its future prospects and applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ran Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Tai-Lang Yin
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University & Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, China.
| | - Li-Quan Zhou
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
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7
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Sperling AL, Fabian DK, Garrison E, Glover DM. A genetic basis for facultative parthenogenesis in Drosophila. Curr Biol 2023; 33:3545-3560.e13. [PMID: 37516115 PMCID: PMC11044649 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
Facultative parthenogenesis enables sexually reproducing organisms to switch between sexual and asexual parthenogenetic reproduction. To gain insights into this phenomenon, we sequenced the genomes of sexually reproducing and parthenogenetic strains of Drosophila mercatorum and identified differences in the gene expression in their eggs. We then tested whether manipulating the expression of candidate gene homologs identified in Drosophila mercatorum could lead to facultative parthenogenesis in the non-parthenogenetic species Drosophila melanogaster. This identified a polygenic system whereby increased expression of the mitotic protein kinase polo and decreased expression of a desaturase, Desat2, caused facultative parthenogenesis in the non-parthenogenetic species that was enhanced by increased expression of Myc. The genetically induced parthenogenetic Drosophila melanogaster eggs exhibit de novo centrosome formation, fusion of the meiotic products, and the onset of development to generate predominantly triploid offspring. Thus, we demonstrate a genetic basis for sporadic facultative parthenogenesis in an animal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis L Sperling
- University of Cambridge, Department of Genetics, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EH, UK.
| | - Daniel K Fabian
- University of Cambridge, Department of Genetics, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EH, UK
| | - Erik Garrison
- University of Tennessee Health Science Center, S Manassas Street, Memphis, TN 38103, USA
| | - David M Glover
- University of Cambridge, Department of Genetics, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EH, UK; Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, East California Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA.
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8
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Thomalla JM, Wolfner MF. Reproductive biology: A genetic recipe for parthenogenesis. Curr Biol 2023; 33:R904-R906. [PMID: 37699347 PMCID: PMC10753294 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.07.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
New work reveals differences in oogenic gene expression between parthenogenetic and sexually reproducing Drosophila mercatorum strains. Recapitulating those changes in D. melanogaster oocytes induced parthenogenesis in this normally sexually reproducing species, providing molecular insight into how these reproductive modes arise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathon M Thomalla
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Mariana F Wolfner
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA.
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9
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Stricker SH. Folding makes an imprint. Genes Dev 2023; 37:779-780. [PMID: 37821108 PMCID: PMC10620038 DOI: 10.1101/gad.351216.123] [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] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Imprinted gene clusters are confined genomic regions containing genes with parent-of-origin-dependent transcriptional activity. In this issue of Genes & Development, Loftus and colleagues (pp. 829-843) made use of an insightful combination of descriptive approaches, genetic manipulations, and epigenome-editing approaches to show that differences in nuclear topology precede the onset of imprinted expression at the Peg13-Kcnk9 locus. Furthermore, the investigators provide data in line with a model suggesting that parent-of-origin-specific topological differences could be responsible for parent-of-origin-specific enhancer activity and thus imprinted expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan H Stricker
- Reprogramming and Regeneration, Biomedical Center (BMC), Physiological Genomics, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU) Munich, Planegg-Martinsried 82152, Germany; Epigenetic Epigenetic Engineering, Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Planegg-Martinsried 82152, Germany
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10
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Oza A. 'Virgin birth' genetically engineered into female animals for the first time. Nature 2023:10.1038/d41586-023-02404-z. [PMID: 37507507 DOI: 10.1038/d41586-023-02404-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
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11
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Asami M, Lam BYH, Hoffmann M, Suzuki T, Lu X, Yoshida N, Ma MK, Rainbow K, Gužvić M, VerMilyea MD, Yeo GSH, Klein CA, Perry ACF. A program of successive gene expression in mouse one-cell embryos. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112023. [PMID: 36729835 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
At the moment of union in fertilization, sperm and oocyte are transcriptionally silent. The ensuing onset of embryonic transcription (embryonic genome activation [EGA]) is critical for development, yet its timing and profile remain elusive in any vertebrate species. We here dissect transcription during EGA by high-resolution single-cell RNA sequencing of precisely synchronized mouse one-cell embryos. This reveals a program of embryonic gene expression (immediate EGA [iEGA]) initiating within 4 h of fertilization. Expression during iEGA produces canonically spliced transcripts, occurs substantially from the maternal genome, and is mostly downregulated at the two-cell stage. Transcribed genes predict regulation by transcription factors (TFs) associated with cancer, including c-Myc. Blocking c-Myc or other predicted regulatory TF activities disrupts iEGA and induces acute developmental arrest. These findings illuminate intracellular mechanisms that regulate the onset of mammalian development and hold promise for the study of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maki Asami
- Laboratory of Mammalian Molecular Embryology, Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Brian Y H Lam
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Metabolic Diseases Unit, Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science-Metabolic Research Laboratories, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Martin Hoffmann
- Project Group Personalized Tumor Therapy, Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine (ITEM), Regensburg, Germany
| | - Toru Suzuki
- Laboratory of Mammalian Molecular Embryology, Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Xin Lu
- Experimental Medicine and Therapy Research, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Naoko Yoshida
- Department of Pathology, Kansai Medical University, Osaka 573-1010, Japan
| | - Marcella K Ma
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Metabolic Diseases Unit, Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science-Metabolic Research Laboratories, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Kara Rainbow
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Metabolic Diseases Unit, Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science-Metabolic Research Laboratories, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Miodrag Gužvić
- Experimental Medicine and Therapy Research, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Matthew D VerMilyea
- Embryology and Andrology Laboratories, Ovation Fertility Austin, Austin, TX 78731, USA
| | - Giles S H Yeo
- Medical Research Council (MRC) Metabolic Diseases Unit, Wellcome-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science-Metabolic Research Laboratories, Addenbrooke's Hospital, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK.
| | - Christoph A Klein
- Project Group Personalized Tumor Therapy, Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine (ITEM), Regensburg, Germany; Experimental Medicine and Therapy Research, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Anthony C F Perry
- Laboratory of Mammalian Molecular Embryology, Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK.
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12
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Kues WA, Kumar D. Cocktails of defined chemical compounds: sufficient to induce totipotency in embryonic stem cells. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:330. [PMID: 36123330 PMCID: PMC9485150 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01184-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Wilfried A. Kues
- grid.417834.dFriedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Biotechnology, Stem Cell Physiology, 31535 Neustadt, Germany
| | - Dharmendra Kumar
- grid.417834.dFriedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Biotechnology, Stem Cell Physiology, 31535 Neustadt, Germany ,grid.464759.d0000 0000 9501 3648Animal Physiology and Reproduction Division, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes, Hisar, Haryana, 125001 India
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Chen F, Ma B, Lin Y, Luo X, Xu T, Zhang Y, Chen F, Li Y, Zhang Y, Luo B, Zhang Q, Xie X. Comparative maternal protein profiling of mouse biparental and uniparental embryos. Gigascience 2022; 11:6691138. [PMID: 36056732 PMCID: PMC9440387 DOI: 10.1093/gigascience/giac084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Maternal proteins have important roles during early embryonic development. However, our understanding of maternal proteins is still very limited. The integrated analysis of mouse uniparental (parthenogenetic) and biparental (fertilized) embryos at the protein level creates a protein expression landscape that can be used to explore preimplantation mouse development. Results Using label-free quantitative mass spectrometry (MS) analysis, we report on the maternal proteome of mouse parthenogenetic embryos at pronucleus, 2-cell, 4-cell, 8-cell, morula, and blastocyst stages and highlight dynamic changes in protein expression. In addition, comparison of proteomic profiles of parthenogenotes and fertilized embryos highlights the different fates of maternal proteins. Enrichment analysis uncovered a set of maternal proteins that are strongly correlated with the subcortical maternal complex, and we report that in parthenogenotes, some of these maternal proteins escape the fate of protein degradation. Moreover, we identified a new maternal factor-Fbxw24, and highlight its importance in early embryonic development. We report that Fbxw24 interacts with Ddb1-Cul4b and may regulate maternal protein degradation in mouse. Conclusions Our study provides an invaluable resource for mechanistic analysis of maternal proteins and highlights the role of the novel maternal factor Fbw24 in regulating maternal protein degradation during preimplantation embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumei Chen
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P. R. China
| | - Buguo Ma
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P. R. China.,Central Laboratory, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P. R. China
| | - Yongda Lin
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P. R. China.,Central Laboratory, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P. R. China
| | - Xin Luo
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P. R. China
| | - Tao Xu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P. R. China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P. R. China
| | - Fang Chen
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P. R. China.,Central Laboratory, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P. R. China
| | - Yanfei Li
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P. R. China.,Central Laboratory, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P. R. China
| | - Yaoyao Zhang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P. R. China.,Central Laboratory, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P. R. China
| | - Bin Luo
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P. R. China.,Central Laboratory, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P. R. China
| | - Qingmei Zhang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P. R. China.,Central Laboratory, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoxun Xie
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P. R. China.,Central Laboratory, School of Pre-Clinical Medicine, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi 530021, P. R. China
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Li J, Yu D, Wang J, Li C, Wang Q, Wang J, Du W, Zhao S, Pang Y, Hao H, Zhao X, Zhu H, Li S, Zou H. Identification of the porcine IG-DMR and abnormal imprinting of DLK1-DIO3 in cloned pigs. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:964045. [PMID: 36036009 PMCID: PMC9400927 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.964045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Correct reprogramming of the DLK1-DIO3 imprinted region is critical for the development of cloned animals. However, in pigs, the imprinting and regulation of the DLK1-DIO3 region has not been systematically analyzed. The objective of this study was to investigate the imprinting status and methylation regulation of the DLK1-DIO3 region in wild-type and cloned neonatal pigs. We mapped the imprinting control region, IG-DMR, by homologous alignment and validated it in sperm, oocytes, fibroblasts, and parthenogenetic embryos. Subsequently, single nucleotide polymorphism-based sequencing and bisulfite sequencing polymerase chain reaction were conducted to analyze imprinting and methylation in different types of fibroblasts, as well as wild-type and cloned neonatal pigs. The results showed that Somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) resulted in hypermethylation of the IG-DMR and aberrant gene expression in the DLK1-DIO3 region. Similar to wild-type pigs, imprinted expression and methylation were observed in the surviving cloned pigs, whereas in dead cloned pigs, the IG-DMR was hypermethylated and the expression of GTL2 was nearly undetectable. Our study reveals that abnormal imprinting of the DLK1-DIO3 region occurs in cloned pigs, which provides a theoretical basis for improving the cloning efficiency by gene editing to correct abnormal imprinting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junliang Li
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei, China
| | - Dawei Yu
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Germplasm Center of Domestic Animal Resources, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Dawei Yu, ; Huabin Zhu, ; Shijie Li, ; Huiying Zou,
| | - Jing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chongyang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qingwei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Human Genetics David Geffen School of Medicine University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Weihua Du
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shanjiang Zhao
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yunwei Pang
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Haisheng Hao
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xueming Zhao
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Huabin Zhu
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Dawei Yu, ; Huabin Zhu, ; Shijie Li, ; Huiying Zou,
| | - Shijie Li
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei, China
- *Correspondence: Dawei Yu, ; Huabin Zhu, ; Shijie Li, ; Huiying Zou,
| | - Huiying Zou
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Dawei Yu, ; Huabin Zhu, ; Shijie Li, ; Huiying Zou,
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15
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Efficient method for generating homozygous embryonic stem cells in mice. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL REPRODUCTION AND BIOTECHNOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.12750/jarb.37.1.48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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