1
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Hamdi M, Sánchez JM, Fernandez-Fuertes B, Câmara DR, Bollwein H, Rizos D, Bauersachs S, Almiñana C. Oviductal extracellular vesicles miRNA cargo varies in response to embryos and their quality. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:520. [PMID: 38802796 PMCID: PMC11129498 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10429-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing evidence points to an active role of oviductal extracellular vesicles (oEVs) in the early embryo-maternal dialogue. However, it remains unclear whether oEVs contribute to the recognition of the presence of embryos and their quality in the oviduct. Hence, we examined whether the molecular cargo of oEVs secreted by bovine oviduct epithelial cells (BOEC) differs depending on the presence of good (≥ 8 cells, G) or poor (< 8 cells, P) quality embryos. In addition, differences in RNA profiles between G and P embryos were analyzed in attempt to distinguish oEVs and embryonic EVs cargos. METHODS For this purpose, primary BOEC were co-cultured with in vitro produced embryos (IVP) 53 h post fertilization as follows: BOEC with G embryos (BGE); BOEC with P embryos (BPE); G embryos alone (GE); P embryos alone (PE); BOEC alone (B) and medium control (M). After 24 h of co-culture, conditioned media were collected from all groups and EVs were isolated and characterized. MicroRNA profiling of EVs and embryos was performed by small RNA-sequencing. RESULTS In EVs, 84 miRNAs were identified, with 8 differentially abundant (DA) miRNAs for BGE vs. B and 4 for BPE vs. B (P-value < 0.01). In embryos, 187 miRNAs were identified, with 12 DA miRNAs for BGE vs. BPE, 3 for G vs. P, 8 for BGE vs. GE, and 11 for BPE vs. PE (P-value < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS These results indicated that oEVs are involved in the oviductal-embryo recognition and pointed to specific miRNAs with signaling and supporting roles during early embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meriem Hamdi
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty Zurich, University of Zurich, Lindau, ZH, 8315, Switzerland
| | - José María Sánchez
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Fernandez-Fuertes
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Diogo Ribeiro Câmara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Alagoas, Viçosa, AL, Brazil
| | - Heinrich Bollwein
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Lindau, ZH, 8315, Switzerland
| | - Dimitrios Rizos
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Stefan Bauersachs
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty Zurich, University of Zurich, Lindau, ZH, 8315, Switzerland
| | - Carmen Almiñana
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Vetsuisse Faculty Zurich, University of Zurich, Lindau, ZH, 8315, Switzerland.
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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2
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Zelinger E, Brumfeld V, Rechav K, Waiger D, Kossovsky T, Heifetz Y. Three-dimensional correlative microscopy of the Drosophila female reproductive tract reveals modes of communication in seminal receptacle sperm storage. Commun Biol 2024; 7:155. [PMID: 38321098 PMCID: PMC10847118 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-05829-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
In many taxa, females store sperm in specialized storage organs. Most insect sperm storage organs have a tubular structure, typically consisting of a central lumen surrounded by epithelial cells. These specialized tubules perform the essential tasks of transporting sperm through the female reproductive tract and supporting long-term sperm survival and function. Little is known about the way in which female sperm storage organs provide an environment conducive to sperm survival. We address this using a combined light microscopy, micro computed tomography (microCT), and Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscopy (FIB-SEM) approach for high-resolution correlative three-dimensional imaging to advance our understanding of sperm-female interactions in Drosophila melanogaster. Using this multimodal approach, we were able to scan the lower female reproductive tract and distal portion of the seminal receptacle at low magnification, and to subsequently zoom in for further analysis on an ultrastructural level. Our findings highlight aspects of the way in which the seminal receptacle keeps sperm viable in the lumen, and set the stage for further studies. The methods developed are suitable not only for Drosophila but also for other organisms with soft, delicate tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Einat Zelinger
- Department of Entomology, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
- Center for Scientific Imaging, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Vlad Brumfeld
- Chemical Research Support Department, Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Katya Rechav
- Chemical Research Support Department, Weizmann Institute, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Daniel Waiger
- Center for Scientific Imaging, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Tally Kossovsky
- Center for Scientific Imaging, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Yael Heifetz
- Department of Entomology, The Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel.
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3
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Izadpanah M, Yalameha B, Sani MZ, Cheragh PK, Mahdipour M, Rezabakhsh A, Rahbarghazi R. Exosomes as Theranostic Agents in Reproduction System. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2024; 8:e2300258. [PMID: 37955866 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202300258] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Exosomes (Exos), belonging to extracellular vesicles, are cell-derived nano-sized vesicles with the potential to carry different kinds of biological molecules. Many studies have proved the impacts of exosomal cargo on several biological processes in female and male reproductive systems. It is also hypothesized that changes in exosomal cargo are integral to the promotion of certain pathological conditions, thus Exos can be used as valid biomarkers for the diagnosis of infertility and other abnormal conditions. Here, efforts are made to collect some recent data related to the physiological significance of Exos in the reproductive system, and their potential therapeutic effects. It is anticipated that the current review article will lay the groundwork for elucidating the source and mechanisms by which Exos control the reproductive system additionally supplying fresh methods and concepts for the detection and treatment of disorders associated with fertility for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melika Izadpanah
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Banafsheh Yalameha
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Maryam Zamani Sani
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Mahdi Mahdipour
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Aysa Rezabakhsh
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Rahbarghazi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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4
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Godakumara K, Heath PR, Fazeli A. Rhythm of the First Language: Dynamics of Extracellular Vesicle-Based Embryo-Maternal Communication in the Pre-Implantation Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076811. [PMID: 37047784 PMCID: PMC10095160 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the most critical steps in mammalian reproduction is implantation. Embryos with an impaired capacity for embryo-maternal crosstalk are thought to have a reduced potential for implantation. One agent of embryo-maternal communication is extracellular vesicles (EV). EVs are lipid bilayer-bound biological nanoparticles implicated in intercellular communication between many of the known cell types. In the current study, we isolated EVs from trophoblast analogue JAr spheroids and supplemented the EVs with receptive endometrium analogue RL95-2 cells to simulate pre-implantation embryo-maternal dialogue. The transcriptome of the endometrial cells was examined at 30 min, 4 h and 48 h intervals using Oxford Nanopore® technology. At the time points, 30 min, 4 h and 48 h, the endometrial cells showed a significantly altered transcriptome. It seems trophoblast EVs induce a swift and drastic effect on the endometrial transcriptome. The effect peaks at around 4 h of EV supplementation, indicating a generalized effect on cell physiology. Alterations are especially apparent in biological pathways critical to embryonic implantation, such as extracellular matrix-receptor interactions and cytokine-receptor interactions. These observations can be helpful in elucidating the dynamics of embryo-maternal communication in the pre-implantation period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasun Godakumara
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Paul R Heath
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITRAN), University of Sheffield, 385a Glossop Rd., Broomhall, Sheffield S10 2HQ, UK
| | - Alireza Fazeli
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, 14B Ravila, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK
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5
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Mahé C, Lavigne R, Com E, Pineau C, Zlotkowska AM, Tsikis G, Mermillod P, Schoen J, Saint-Dizier M. The sperm-interacting proteome in the bovine isthmus and ampulla during the periovulatory period. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2023; 14:30. [PMID: 36797800 PMCID: PMC9936689 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-022-00811-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatozoa interact with oviduct secretions before fertilization in vivo but the molecular players of this dialog and underlying dynamics remain largely unknown. Our objectives were to identify an exhaustive list of sperm-interacting proteins (SIPs) in the bovine oviduct fluid and to evaluate the impact of the oviduct anatomical region (isthmus vs. ampulla) and time relative to ovulation (pre-ovulatory vs. post-ovulatory) on SIPs number and abundance. METHODS Pools of oviduct fluid (OF) from the pre-ovulatory ampulla, pre-ovulatory isthmus, post-ovulatory ampulla, and post-ovulatory isthmus in the side of ovulation were collected from the slaughterhouse. Frozen-thawed bull sperm were incubated with OF or phosphate-buffered saline (control) for 60 min at 38.5 °C. After protein extraction and digestion, sperm and OF samples were analyzed by nanoLC-MS/MS and label-free protein quantification. RESULTS A quantitative comparison between proteins identified in sperm and OF samples (2333 and 2471 proteins, respectively) allowed for the identification of 245 SIPs. The highest number (187) were found in the pre-ovulatory isthmus, i.e., time and place of the sperm reservoir. In total, 41 SIPs (17%) were differentially abundant between stages in a given region or between regions at a given stage and 76 SIPs (31%) were identified in only one region × stage condition. Functional analysis of SIPs predicted roles in cell response to stress, regulation of cell motility, fertilization, and early embryo development. CONCLUSION This study provides a comprehensive list of SIPs in the bovine oviduct and evidences dynamic spatio-temporal changes in sperm-oviduct interactions around ovulation time. Moreover, these data provide protein candidates to improve sperm conservation and in vitro fertilization media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coline Mahé
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380, Nouzilly, France.
| | - Régis Lavigne
- grid.410368.80000 0001 2191 9284Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement Et Travail) - UMR-S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France ,grid.410368.80000 0001 2191 9284Univ Rennes, CNRS, Inserm, Biosit UAR 3480 US_S 018, Protim Core Facility, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Emmanuelle Com
- grid.410368.80000 0001 2191 9284Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement Et Travail) - UMR-S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France ,grid.410368.80000 0001 2191 9284Univ Rennes, CNRS, Inserm, Biosit UAR 3480 US_S 018, Protim Core Facility, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Charles Pineau
- grid.410368.80000 0001 2191 9284Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement Et Travail) - UMR-S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France ,grid.410368.80000 0001 2191 9284Univ Rennes, CNRS, Inserm, Biosit UAR 3480 US_S 018, Protim Core Facility, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Aleksandra Maria Zlotkowska
- grid.418188.c0000 0000 9049 5051Institute of Reproductive Biology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology, FBN, Dummerstorf, Germany ,grid.418779.40000 0001 0708 0355Present Address: Department of Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), Berlin, Germany
| | - Guillaume Tsikis
- grid.464126.30000 0004 0385 4036CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Pascal Mermillod
- grid.464126.30000 0004 0385 4036CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Jennifer Schoen
- grid.418188.c0000 0000 9049 5051Institute of Reproductive Biology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology, FBN, Dummerstorf, Germany ,grid.418779.40000 0001 0708 0355Present Address: Department of Reproduction Biology, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), Berlin, Germany
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- grid.464126.30000 0004 0385 4036CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France
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6
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Gonzalez Fernandez J, Moncayo Arlandi J, Ochando A, Simon C, Vilella F. The role of extracellular vesicles in intercellular communication in human reproduction. Clin Sci (Lond) 2023; 137:281-301. [PMID: 36762584 DOI: 10.1042/cs20220793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Embryo-maternal cross-talk has emerged as a vitally important process for embryo development and implantation, which is driven by secreted factors and extracellular vesicles (EVs). The EV cargo of bioactive molecules significantly influences target cells and primes them for critical stages of reproductive biology, including embryo development, adhesion, and implantation. Recent research has suggested that EVs and their cargo represent a powerful non-invasive tool that can be leveraged to assess embryo and maternal tissue quality during assisted reproduction treatments. Here, we review the current scientific literature regarding the intercellular cross-talk between embryos and maternal tissues from fertilization to implantation, focusing on human biology and signaling mechanisms identified in animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Gonzalez Fernandez
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, C/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012, Valencia, Spain
| | - Javier Moncayo Arlandi
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, C/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ana Ochando
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, C/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012, Valencia, Spain
| | - Carlos Simon
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, C/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012, Valencia, Spain
| | - Felipe Vilella
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, C/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012, Valencia, Spain
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7
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Fan W, Qi Y, Wang Y, Yan H, Li X, Zhang Y. Messenger roles of extracellular vesicles during fertilization of gametes, development and implantation: Recent advances. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 10:1079387. [PMID: 36684431 PMCID: PMC9849778 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1079387] [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: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have become a research hotspot in recent years because they act as messengers between cells in the physiological and pathological processes of the human body. It can be produced by the follicle, prostate, embryo, uterus, and oviduct in the reproductive field and exists in the extracellular environment as follicular fluid, semen, uterine cavity fluid, and oviduct fluid. Because extracellular vesicles are more stable at transmitting information, it allows all cells involved in the physiological processes of embryo formation, development, and implantation to communicate with one another. Extracellular vesicles carried miRNAs and proteins as mail, and when the messenger delivers the mail to the recipient cell, the recipient cell undergoes a series of changes. Current research begins with intercepting and decoding the information carried by extracellular vesicles. This information may help us gain a better understanding of the secrets of reproduction, as well as assist reproductive technology as an emerging marker and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weisen Fan
- The First Clinical Medical College of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yinghua Qi
- Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yaqian Wang
- The First Clinical Medical College of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Huiting Yan
- The First Clinical Medical College of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xuan Li
- The First Clinical Medical College of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yingjie Zhang
- The First Clinical Medical College of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China,*Correspondence: Yingjie Zhang,
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8
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Jangid P, Rai U, Bakshi A, Singh R. Significance of Complement Regulatory Protein Tetraspanins in the Male Reproductive System and Fertilization. Curr Protein Pept Sci 2023; 24:240-246. [PMID: 36718968 DOI: 10.2174/1389203724666230131110203] [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: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Fertilization is a very sophisticated and unique process involving several key steps resulting in a zygote's formation. Recent research has indicated that some immune system-related cell surface molecules (CD molecules from the tetraspanin superfamily) may have a role in fertilization. Extracellular vesicles are undeniably involved in a variety of cellular functions, including reproduction. Tetraspanin proteins identified in extracellular vesicles are now used mostly as markers; mounting evidence indicates that they also participate in cell targeting, cargo selection, and extracellular vesicle formation. Their significance and potential in mammalian reproduction are currently being studied extensively. Despite the fact that the current data did not establish any theory, the crucial function of tetraspanins in the fertilization process was not ruled out, and the specific role of tetraspanins is still unknown. In this review, we bring insight into the existing knowledge regarding the expression of tetraspanins in spermatozoa and seminal fluid and their role in gamete binding and fusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Jangid
- Department of Environmental Studies, Satyawati College, University of Delhi, New Delhi 110052, India
| | - Umesh Rai
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, New Delhi 110007, India
| | - Amrita Bakshi
- Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, New Delhi 110007, India
| | - Rajeev Singh
- Department of Environmental Studies, Satyawati College, University of Delhi, New Delhi 110052, India
- Department of Environmental Science, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi 110025, India
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9
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Roca J, Rodriguez-Martinez H, Padilla L, Lucas X, Barranco I. Extracellular vesicles in seminal fluid and effects on male reproduction. An overview in farm animals and pets. Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 246:106853. [PMID: 34556398 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2021.106853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are lipid bilayer nanovesicles released by most functional cells to body fluids, containing bioactive molecules, mainly proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids having actions at target cells. The EVs have essential functions in cell-to-cell communication by regulating different biological processes in target cells. Fluids from the male reproductive tract, including seminal plasma, contain many extracellular vesicles (sEVs), which have been evaluated to a lesser extent than those of other body fluids, particularly in farm animals and pets. Results from the few studies that have been conducted indicated epithelial cells of the testis, epididymis, ampulla of ductus deferens and many accessory sex glands release sEVs mainly via apocrine mechanisms. The sEVs are morphologically heterogeneous and bind to functional cells of the male reproductive tract, spermatozoa, and cells of the functional tissues of the female reproductive tract after mating or insemination. The sEVs encapsulate proteins and miRNAs that modulate sperm functions and male fertility. The sEVs, therefore, could be important as reproductive biomarkers in breeding sires. Many of the current findings regarding sEV functions, however, need experimental confirmation. Further studies are particularly needed to characterize both membranes and contents of sEVs, as well as the interaction between sEVs and target cells (spermatozoa and functional cells of the internal female reproductive tract). A priority for conducting these studies is development of methods that can be standardized and that are scalable, cost-effective and time-saving for isolation of different subtypes of EVs present in the entire population of sEVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain.
| | - Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Lorena Padilla
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Xiomara Lucas
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Isabel Barranco
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, IT-40064 Bologna, Italy
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10
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Godakumara K, Dissanayake K, Hasan MM, Kodithuwakku SP, Fazeli A. Role of extracellular vesicles in intercellular communication during reproduction. Reprod Domest Anim 2022; 57 Suppl 5:14-21. [PMID: 35837748 PMCID: PMC9796405 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The mammalian reproduction is a process of controlled cellular growth and development regulated by constant communication between the gametes, the subsequent embryo and the maternal system. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are involved in these communications to a significant degree from the gamete production and maturation to fertilization, embryo development and implantation. They regulate the cellular physiology and the immune reaction to bring about a favourable environment for a successful pregnancy. Deciphering the mechanisms employed in EV-mediated embryo maternal communication could improve our knowledge in mammalian reproduction and increase the efficiency of animal breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasun Godakumara
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational MedicineFaculty of Medicine, Tartu UniversityTartuEstonia,Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal SciencesEstonian University of Life SciencesTartuEstonia
| | - Keerthie Dissanayake
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational MedicineFaculty of Medicine, Tartu UniversityTartuEstonia,Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal SciencesEstonian University of Life SciencesTartuEstonia,Department of Anatomy, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of PeradeniyaPeradeniyaSri Lanka
| | - Mohammad Mehedi Hasan
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational MedicineFaculty of Medicine, Tartu UniversityTartuEstonia,Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal SciencesEstonian University of Life SciencesTartuEstonia,Maternal and Fetal Medicine Department, Institute of Women's HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Suranga. P. Kodithuwakku
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal SciencesEstonian University of Life SciencesTartuEstonia,Department of Animal Science, Faculty of AgricultureUniversity of PeradeniyaPeradeniyaSri Lanka
| | - Alireza Fazeli
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational MedicineFaculty of Medicine, Tartu UniversityTartuEstonia,Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal SciencesEstonian University of Life SciencesTartuEstonia,Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental MedicineThe University of SheffieldSheffieldUK
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11
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Sanchez-Lopez JA, Twena S, Apel I, Kornhaeuser SC, Chasnitsky M, Miklosi AG, Vega-Dominguez PJ, Shephard A, Hefetz A, Heifetz Y. Male-female communication enhances release of extracellular vesicles leading to high fertility in Drosophila. Commun Biol 2022; 5:815. [PMID: 35963938 PMCID: PMC9376107 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03770-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The female reproductive tract (female-RT) must decipher the repertoire of molecular cues received from the male during copulation in order to activate and coordinate tract functionality necessary for high fertility. In Drosophila, this modulation is partially driven by spermathecal secretory cells (SSC). The SSC are a layer of cuboidal secretory glandular cells surrounding the spermatheca capsule where sperm is stored. It is unclear, however, how the SSC regulate the system’s activity. Here we show that mating activates the secretory machinery of the SSC. The SSC release a heterogeneous population of extracellular vesicles (EVs) which is involved in initiating and managing the increase in egg-laying, and possibly sperm storage. Moreover, sperm and male accessory gland proteins are essential for such mating-mediated SSC activity. Thus, mating regulates secretory/endocytic pathways required for trafficking of vesicles to SSC-female-RT target sites, which modulate and coordinate reproductive tract activity to achieve high fertility. Visualisation of spermathecal secretory cell (SSC) secretion in Drosophila reveals that the SSC produces extracellular vesicles to modulate and coordinate reproductive tract activity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shai Twena
- Department of Entomology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, 76100, Israel
| | - Ido Apel
- Department of Entomology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, 76100, Israel
| | | | - Michael Chasnitsky
- Institute of Biochemistry, Food Science and Nutrition, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, 76100, Israel
| | - Andras G Miklosi
- ONI (Oxford Nanoimaging), Jordan Hill, Banbury Road, Oxford, OX2 8TA, UK
| | | | - Alex Shephard
- NanoView Biosciences, Malvern Hills Science Park, Geraldine Road, Malvern, WR14 3SZ, UK
| | | | - Yael Heifetz
- Department of Entomology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, 76100, Israel.
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12
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Vernaz ZJ, Lottero-Leconte RM, Alonso CAI, Rio S, Morales MF, Arroyo-Salvo C, Valiente CC, Lovaglio Diez M, Bogetti ME, Arenas G, Rey-Valzacchi G, Perez-Martinez S. Evaluation of sperm integrin α5β1 as a potential marker of fertility in humans. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0271729. [PMID: 35917320 PMCID: PMC9345343 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0271729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm selection for assisted reproduction techniques is generally based on basic parameters, while key aspects of sperm competence and its journey from the deposition site to the fertilization site are overlooked. Consequently, identifying molecular markers in spermatozoa that can efficiently predict the fertility of a semen sample could be of great interest, particularly in cases of idiopathic male infertility. When spermatozoa reach the female reproductive tract, it provides to them the cellular and molecular microenvironment needed to acquire fertilizing ability. In this sense, considering the role that integrin α5β1 of spermatozoa plays in reproduction-related events, we investigated the correlation between the subcellular localization of sperm integrin α5β1 and early embryo development outcome after in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures in human. Twenty-four semen samples from normozoospermic men and metaphase II (MII) oocytes from healthy women aged under 38 years, from couples who underwent IVF cycles, were used in this work. Sperm α5β1 localization was evaluated by immunofluorescence assay using an antibody against integrin α5 subunit. Integrin α5β1 was mainly localized in the sperm acrosomal region (45.33±7.89%) or the equatorial segment (30.12±7.43%). The early embryo development rate (data obtained from the Fertility Center) correlated positively with the localization of α5β1 in the acrosomal region (number of usable embryos / inseminated oocytes: ρ = 0.75; p<0.01 and number of usable embryos/total number of two pronuclear zygotes: ρ = 0.80; p<0.01). However, this correlation was not significant when the equatorial segment mark was evaluated. In addition, human sperm released from co-culture with bovine oviductal epithelial cells (BOEC) showed a significant enrichment in the acrosomal localization pattern of α5β1 compared to those sperm that were not co-cultured with BOEC (85.20±5.35% vs 35.00±17.09%, respectively, p<0.05). In conclusion, the evaluation of sperm integrin α5β1 immunolocalization could be a useful tool to select sperm with fertilizing ability from human semen samples before IVF procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoilo José Vernaz
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción en Mamíferos, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Universidad de Buenos Aires/CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Raquel María Lottero-Leconte
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción en Mamíferos, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Universidad de Buenos Aires/CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carlos Agustín Isidro Alonso
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción en Mamíferos, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Universidad de Buenos Aires/CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Sofía Rio
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción en Mamíferos, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Universidad de Buenos Aires/CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Camila Arroyo-Salvo
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción en Mamíferos, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Universidad de Buenos Aires/CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carla C. Valiente
- PROCREARTE- Red de Medicina Reproductiva y Molecular, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Lovaglio Diez
- PROCREARTE- Red de Medicina Reproductiva y Molecular, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Eugenia Bogetti
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción en Mamíferos, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Universidad de Buenos Aires/CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gabriela Arenas
- PROCREARTE- Red de Medicina Reproductiva y Molecular, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Silvina Perez-Martinez
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción en Mamíferos, Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Universidad de Buenos Aires/CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- * E-mail:
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13
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Gurunathan S, Kang MH, Song H, Kim NH, Kim JH. The role of extracellular vesicles in animal reproduction and diseases. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2022; 13:62. [PMID: 35681164 PMCID: PMC9185900 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-022-00715-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanosized membrane-enclosed compartments that serve as messengers in cell-to-cell communication, both in normal physiology and in pathological conditions. EVs can transfer functional proteins and genetic information to alter the phenotype and function of recipient cells, which undergo different changes that positively affect their structural and functional integrity. Biological fluids are enriched with several subpopulations of EVs, including exosomes, microvesicles (MVs), and apoptotic bodies carrying several cargoes, such as lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. EVs associated with the reproductive system are actively involved in the regulation of different physiological events, including gamete maturation, fertilization, and embryo and fetal development. EVs can influence follicle development, oocyte maturation, embryo production, and endometrial-conceptus communication. EVs loaded with cargoes are used to diagnose various diseases, including pregnancy disorders; however, these are dependent on the type of cell of origin and pathological characteristics. EV-derived microRNAs (miRNAs) and proteins in the placenta regulate inflammatory responses and trophoblast invasion through intercellular delivery in the placental microenvironment. This review presents evidence regarding the types of extracellular vesicles, and general aspects of isolation, purification, and characterization of EVs, particularly from various types of embryos. Further, we discuss EVs as mediators and messengers in reproductive biology, the effects of EVs on placentation and pregnancy disorders, the role of EVs in animal reproduction, in the male reproductive system, and mother and embryo cross-communication. In addition, we emphasize the role of microRNAs in embryo implantation and the role of EVs in reproductive and therapeutic medicine. Finally, we discuss the future perspectives of EVs in reproductive biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangiliyandi Gurunathan
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Min-Hee Kang
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Hyuk Song
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea
| | - Nam Hyung Kim
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Large Animal models for Biomedicine, Wuyi University, Jiangmen, 529020, China
| | - Jin-Hoi Kim
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biotechnology, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, Korea.
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14
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Extracellular vesicles in mammalian reproduction: a review. ZYGOTE 2022; 30:440-463. [PMID: 35652626 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199422000090] [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: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Over the last decades, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been found to be implicated in a complex universal mechanism of communication between different cell types. EVs are nanostructures of lipid nature that have an exosomal or ectosomal biogenesis, responsible for the intercellular transport of proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, nucleic acids, ions, among other molecules. The content of EVs can vary due to various factors such as hormonal stimuli, non-physiological conditions, metabolic state, etc. Once EVs reach their target cell, they can modulate processes such as gene expression, metabolism, response to external factors, and can even be associated with the delivery of molecules involved in epigenetic inheritance processes in germ cells. In mammalian reproduction, EVs have been shown to play an important role, either in vivo or in vitro, modulating a variety of processes in sperm, oocytes and embryos, and in their respective environments. Moreover, EVs represent a biodegradable, harmless and specific vehicle, which makes them attractive allies to consider when improving assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). Therefore, the present review aims to describe the content of the main EVs involved in mammalian reproduction and how they can vary due to different factors, as well as to detail how EVs modulate, directly or indirectly, different molecular processes in gametes and embryos. In addition, we will highlight the mechanisms that remain to be elucidated. We will also propose new perspectives according to the characteristics of each particular EV to improve the different ARTs.
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15
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Fu TY, Wang SH, Lin TY, Shen PC, Chang SC, Lin YH, Chou CJ, Yu YH, Yang KT, Huang CW, Shaw SW, Peng SY. The Exploration of miRNAs From Porcine Fallopian Tube Stem Cells on Porcine Oocytes. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:869217. [PMID: 35615247 PMCID: PMC9125035 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.869217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Fallopian tube is essential to fertilization and embryonic development. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) from Fallopian tube containing biological regulatory factors, such as lipids, proteins and microRNAs (miRNAs) serve as the key role. At present, studies on oocytes from porcine oviduct and components from EVs remain limited. We aim to explore the effect of EVs secreted by porcine fallopian tube stem cells (PFTSCs) on oocyte. When the fifth-generation PFTSCs reached 80–90% of confluency, the pig in vitro maturation medium was utilized, and the conditioned medium collected for oocyte incubations. To realize the functions of EVs, several proteins were used to determine whether extracted EVs were cell-free. Field emission scanning electron microscope and nanoparticle tracking analyzer were used to observe the morphology. By next generation sequencing, 267 miRNAs were identified, and those with higher expression were selected to analyze the Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment maps. The selected miR-152-3p, miR-148a-3p, miR-320a-3p, let-7f-5p, and miR-22-3p, were predicted to target Cepb1 gene affecting MAPK pathway. Of the five miRNAs, miR-320a-3p showed significant difference in maturation rate in vitro maturation. The blastocyst rate of pig embryos was also significantly enhanced by adding 50 nM miR-320a-3p. In vitro culture with miR-320a-3p, the blastocyst rate was significantly higher, but the cleavage rate and cell numbers were not. The CM of PFTSCs effectively improves porcine oocyte development. The miRNAs in EVs are sequenced and identified. miR-320a-3p not only helps the maturation, but also increases the blastocyst rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzu-Yen Fu
- Department of Animal Science, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Hsuan Wang
- Department of Animal Science, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Yi Lin
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Perng-Chih Shen
- Department of Animal Science, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan
| | - Shen-Chang Chang
- Kaohsiung Animal Propagation Station, Livestock Research Institute, Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, Pingtung, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Han Lin
- Department of Animal Science, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Jen Chou
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hsiang Yu
- Department of Biotechnology and Animal Science, National Ilan University, Yilan, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Tai Yang
- Department of Animal Science, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Wei Huang
- Department of Tropical Agriculture and International Cooperation, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan
| | - Steven W. Shaw
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Prenatal Cell and Gene Therapy Group, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Steven W. Shaw
| | - Shao-Yu Peng
- Department of Animal Science, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan
- Shao-Yu Peng
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16
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Yanagimachi R. Mysteries and unsolved problems of mammalian fertilization and related topics. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:644-675. [PMID: 35292804 PMCID: PMC9040664 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian fertilization is a fascinating process that leads to the formation of a new individual. Eggs and sperm are complex cells that must meet at the appropriate time and position within the female reproductive tract for successful fertilization. I have been studying various aspects of mammalian fertilization over 60 years. In this review, I discuss many different aspects of mammalian fertilization, some of my laboratory's contribution to the field, and discuss enigmas and mysteries that remain to be solved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryuzo Yanagimachi
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Hawaii Medical School, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
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17
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Antalíková J, Sečová P, Michalková K, Horovská Ľ, Páleníková V, Jankovičová J. Expression of αV integrin and its potential partners in bull reproductive tissues, germ cells and spermatozoa. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 209:542-551. [PMID: 35413326 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Integrins are transmembrane receptors expressed in all nucleated mammalian cells, critically involved in cell-matrix adhesion and cell-cell interactions that modulate many signalling cascades. It is assumed that integrins also provide essential functions of the reproductive system. In this study, we describe the detailed localization and distribution of αV integrin in the plasma membrane of bull sperm head and tail. Integrin αV was observed in the area of forming acrosome in developing sperm since the stage of round spermatids and persists in the acrosome during epididymal maturation and ejaculation till the acrosomal exocytosis. We detected CD9 and CD81 tetraspanins as the potential partners of αV integrin. Their similar staining pattern in testicular tissue suggested the involvement of these molecules in the tetraspanin web of "testisomes". Moreover, the complex of αV with β1 and β3 integrin subunits cannot be excluded at least in sperm. The presented findings contribute to understanding the mutual action of integrins and tetraspanins during sperm development and maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Antalíková
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Institute of Animal Biochemistry and Genetics, Centre of Biosciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, v.v.i., Dúbravská cesta 9, 840 05 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Petra Sečová
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Institute of Animal Biochemistry and Genetics, Centre of Biosciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, v.v.i., Dúbravská cesta 9, 840 05 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Katarína Michalková
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Institute of Animal Biochemistry and Genetics, Centre of Biosciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, v.v.i., Dúbravská cesta 9, 840 05 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Ľubica Horovská
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Institute of Animal Biochemistry and Genetics, Centre of Biosciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, v.v.i., Dúbravská cesta 9, 840 05 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Veronika Páleníková
- Group of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology, Czech Academy of Sciences, v.v.i., BIOCEV, Průmyslová 595, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Hlavova 8, 128 40 Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Jankovičová
- Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology, Institute of Animal Biochemistry and Genetics, Centre of Biosciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, v.v.i., Dúbravská cesta 9, 840 05 Bratislava, Slovak Republic.
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18
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Can nanomaterials support the diagnosis and treatment of human infertility? A preliminary review. Life Sci 2022; 299:120539. [PMID: 35390438 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Human infertilities are disorders that afflict many people all over the world. Both male and female reproductive systems must work together in a precise and coordinated manner and infertility has a wide range of problems for this system. Recent advances in nanomedicine immensely helped design the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to alleviate human infertility in both sexes. Nanoscience has recently been used by researchers to increase the detection limit of infertility-related biomarkers via fabricating sensitive nanobiosensors for detecting follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), anti-müllerian hormone (AMH), pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A), progesterone, and testosterone. At the same time, a variety of nanostructures, including magnetic nanoparticles (i.e., zinc nanoparticles, cerium nanoparticles, gold nanoparticles, silver nanoparticles), nano-vitamins, extracellular vesicles, and spermbots, have shown promising outcomes in the treatment of human infertilities. Despite recent advancements, some nanostructures might have toxic effects on cells, especially germ cells, and must be optimized with the right ingredients, such as antioxidants, nutrients, and vitamins, to obtain the right strategy to treat and detect human infertilities. This review presents recent developments in nanotechnology regarding impairments still faced by human infertility. New perspectives for further use of nanotechnology in reproductive medicine studies are also discussed. In conclusion, nanotechnology, as a tool for reproductive medicine, has been considered to help overcome current impairments.
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19
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Cavarocchi E, Whitfield M, Saez F, Touré A. Sperm Ion Transporters and Channels in Human Asthenozoospermia: Genetic Etiology, Lessons from Animal Models, and Clinical Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073926. [PMID: 35409285 PMCID: PMC8999829 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, sperm fertilization potential relies on efficient progression within the female genital tract to reach and fertilize the oocyte. This fundamental property is supported by the flagellum, an evolutionarily conserved organelle that provides the mechanical force for sperm propulsion and motility. Importantly several functional maturation events that occur during the journey of the sperm cells through the genital tracts are necessary for the activation of flagellar beating and the acquisition of fertilization potential. Ion transporters and channels located at the surface of the sperm cells have been demonstrated to be involved in these processes, in particular, through the activation of downstream signaling pathways and the promotion of novel biochemical and electrophysiological properties in the sperm cells. We performed a systematic literature review to describe the currently known genetic alterations in humans that affect sperm ion transporters and channels and result in asthenozoospermia, a pathophysiological condition defined by reduced or absent sperm motility and observed in nearly 80% of infertile men. We also present the physiological relevance and functional mechanisms of additional ion channels identified in the mouse. Finally, considering the state-of-the art, we discuss future perspectives in terms of therapeutics of asthenozoospermia and male contraception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Cavarocchi
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France; (E.C.); (M.W.)
| | - Marjorie Whitfield
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France; (E.C.); (M.W.)
| | - Fabrice Saez
- UMR GReD Institute (Génétique Reproduction & Développement) CNRS 6293, INSERM U1103, Team «Mécanismes de L’Infertilité Mâle Post-Testiculaire», Université Clermont Auvergne, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Correspondence: (F.S.); (A.T.)
| | - Aminata Touré
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, 38000 Grenoble, France; (E.C.); (M.W.)
- Correspondence: (F.S.); (A.T.)
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20
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The life history of
Drosophila
sperm involves molecular continuity between male and female reproductive tracts. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2119899119. [PMID: 35254899 PMCID: PMC8931355 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2119899119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In species with internal fertilization, sperm spend an important part of their lives within the female. To examine the life history of the sperm during this time, we used semiquantitative proteomics and sex-specific isotopic labeling in fruit flies to determine the extent of molecular continuity between male and female reproductive tracts and provide a global catalog of sperm-associated proteins. Multiple seminal fluid proteins and female proteins associate with sperm immediately after mating. Few seminal fluid proteins remain after long-term sperm storage, whereas female-derived proteins constitute one-fifth of the postmating sperm proteome by then. Our data reveal a molecular “hand-off” from males to females, which we postulate to be an important component of sperm–female interactions. Interactions between sperm and the female reproductive tract (FRT) are critical to reproductive success and yet are poorly understood. Because sperm complete their functional maturation within the FRT, the life history of sperm is likely to include a molecular “hand-off” from males to females. Although such intersexual molecular continuity is likely to be widespread among all internally fertilizing species, the identity and extent of female contributions are largely unknown. We combined semiquantitative proteomics with sex-specific isotopic labeling to catalog the posttesticular life history of the sperm proteome and determine the extent of molecular continuity between male and FRTs. We show that the Drosophila melanogaster sperm proteome undergoes substantial compositional changes after being transferred to the FRT. Multiple seminal fluid proteins initially associate with sperm, but most become undetectable after sperm are stored. Female-derived proteins also begin to associate with sperm immediately after mating, and they comprise nearly 20% of the postmating sperm proteome following 4 d of storage in the FRT. Female-derived proteins that associate with sperm are enriched for processes associated with energy metabolism, suggesting that female contributions support sperm viability during the prolonged period between copulation and fertilization. Our research provides a comprehensive characterization of sperm proteome dynamics and expands our understanding of the critical process of sperm–FRT interactions.
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21
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van der Koog L, Gandek TB, Nagelkerke A. Liposomes and Extracellular Vesicles as Drug Delivery Systems: A Comparison of Composition, Pharmacokinetics, and Functionalization. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 11:e2100639. [PMID: 34165909 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202100639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 66.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Over the past decades, lipid-based nanoparticle drug delivery systems (DDS) have caught the attention of researchers worldwide, encouraging the field to rapidly develop improved ways for effective drug delivery. One of the most prominent examples is liposomes, which are spherical shaped artificial vesicles composed of lipid bilayers and able to encapsulate both hydrophilic and hydrophobic materials. At the same time, biological nanoparticles naturally secreted by cells, called extracellular vesicles (EVs), have emerged as promising more complex biocompatible DDS. In this review paper, the differences and similarities in the composition of both vesicles are evaluated, and critical mediators that affect their pharmacokinetics are elucidate. Different strategies that have been assessed to tweak the pharmacokinetics of both liposomes and EVs are explored, detailing the effects on circulation time, targeting capacity, and cytoplasmic delivery of therapeutic cargo. Finally, whether a hybrid system, consisting of a combination of only the critical constituents of both vesicles, could offer the best of both worlds is discussed. Through these topics, novel leads for further research are provided and, more importantly, gain insight in what the liposome field and the EV field can learn from each other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke van der Koog
- Molecular Pharmacology Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy GRIAC Research Institute, University Medical Center Groningen University of Groningen P.O. Box 196, XB10 Groningen 9700 AD The Netherlands
| | - Timea B. Gandek
- Pharmaceutical Analysis Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy University of Groningen P.O. Box 196, XB20 Groningen 9700 AD The Netherlands
| | - Anika Nagelkerke
- Pharmaceutical Analysis Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy University of Groningen P.O. Box 196, XB20 Groningen 9700 AD The Netherlands
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22
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Sysoeva AP, Makarova NP, Silachev DN, Lobanova NN, Shevtsova YA, Bragina EE, Kalinina EA, Sukhikh GT. Influence of Extracellular Vesicles of the Follicular Fluid on Morphofunctional Characteristics of Human Sperm. Bull Exp Biol Med 2021; 172:254-262. [PMID: 34855079 DOI: 10.1007/s10517-021-05372-4] [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: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
We studied the effect of extracellular vesicles of the follicular fluid on morphofunctional characteristics of human spermatozoa using CASA (computer-assisted sperm analysis) analytical system. The vesicles were obtained by sequential centrifugation at different rotational speeds and frozen at -80°C in the Sydney IVF Gamete Buffer medium. The sperm fraction was isolated from the seminal fluid of 21 patients aged 27-36 years by differential centrifugation in a density gradient. The precipitate was suspended in Sydney IVF Gamete Buffer to a concentration of 106/ml and incubated with vesicles (1:2) at 37°C in a CO2 incubator for 30 min and 1 h. Sperm fraction incubated without vesicles served as the control. After incubation, some sperm samples were centrifuged at 700g for 5 min and fixed in 2.5% glutaraldehyde in 0.1 M buffer for transmission electron microscopy. After 30-min and 1-h incubation, the progressive and total sperm motility improved, the curvilinear and linear velocity of spermatozoa did not change significantly. Incubation with vesicles significantly changed the trajectory of sperm movement, which can attest to an increase in their hyperactivation and, probably, fertilizing capacity. Analysis of the effect of extracellular vesicles of follicular fluid on sperm motility will help to improve the effectiveness of assisted reproductive technology programs with male infertility factor by improving sperm characteristics in patients with asthenozoospermia and increasing the fertilizing ability of the sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- A P Sysoeva
- V. I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia.
| | - N P Makarova
- V. I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - D N Silachev
- V. I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia.,A. N. Belozersky Research Institute of Physical and Chemical Biology, M. V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - N N Lobanova
- V. I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - Yu A Shevtsova
- V. I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - E E Bragina
- A. N. Belozersky Research Institute of Physical and Chemical Biology, M. V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - E A Kalinina
- V. I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - G T Sukhikh
- V. I. Kulakov National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
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Merc V, Frolikova M, Komrskova K. Role of Integrins in Sperm Activation and Fertilization. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11809. [PMID: 34769240 PMCID: PMC8584121 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, integrins are heterodimeric transmembrane glycoproteins that represent a large group of cell adhesion receptors involved in cell-cell, cell-extracellular matrix, and cell-pathogen interactions. Integrin receptors are an important part of signalization pathways and have an ability to transmit signals into and out of cells and participate in cell activation. In addition to somatic cells, integrins have also been detected on germ cells and are known to play a crucial role in complex gamete-specific physiological events, resulting in sperm-oocyte fusion. The main aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge on integrins in reproduction and deliver novel perspectives and graphical interpretations presenting integrin subunits localization and their dynamic relocation during sperm maturation in comparison to the oocyte. A significant part of this review is devoted to discussing the existing view of the role of integrins during sperm migration through the female reproductive tract; oviductal reservoir formation; sperm maturation processes ensuing capacitation and the acrosome reaction, and their direct and indirect involvement in gamete membrane adhesion and fusion leading to fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Merc
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, BIOCEV, Prumyslova 595, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic; (V.M.); (M.F.)
| | - Michaela Frolikova
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, BIOCEV, Prumyslova 595, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic; (V.M.); (M.F.)
| | - Katerina Komrskova
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, BIOCEV, Prumyslova 595, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic; (V.M.); (M.F.)
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Vinicna 7, 128 44 Prague, Czech Republic
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Palenikova V, Frolikova M, Valaskova E, Postlerova P, Komrskova K. αV Integrin Expression and Localization in Male Germ Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22179525. [PMID: 34502434 PMCID: PMC8431249 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Integrins are transmembrane receptors that facilitate cell adhesion and cell–extracellular matrix communication. They are involved in the sperm maturation including capacitation and gamete interaction, resulting in successful fertilization. αV integrin belongs to the integrin glycoprotein superfamily, and it is indispensable for physiological spermiogenesis and testosterone production. We targeted the gene and protein expression of the αV integrin subunit and described its membrane localization in sperm. Firstly, in mouse, we traced αV integrin gene expression during spermatogenesis in testicular fraction separated by elutriation, and we detected gene activity in spermatogonia, spermatocytes, and round spermatids. Secondly, we specified αV integrin membrane localization in acrosome-intact and acrosome-reacted sperm and compared its pattern between mouse, pig, and human. Using immunodetection and structured illumination microscopy (SIM), the αV integrin localization was confined to the plasma membrane covering the acrosomal cap area and also to the inner acrosomal membrane of acrosome-intact sperm of all selected species. During the acrosome reaction, which was induced on capacitated sperm, the αV integrin relocated and was detected over the whole sperm head. Knowledge of the integrin pattern in mature sperm prepares the ground for further investigation into the pathologies and related fertility issues in human medicine and veterinary science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Palenikova
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, BIOCEV, Prumyslova 595, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic; (V.P.); (M.F.); (E.V.); (P.P.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Hlavova 8, 128 40 Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Michaela Frolikova
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, BIOCEV, Prumyslova 595, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic; (V.P.); (M.F.); (E.V.); (P.P.)
| | - Eliska Valaskova
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, BIOCEV, Prumyslova 595, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic; (V.P.); (M.F.); (E.V.); (P.P.)
| | - Pavla Postlerova
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, BIOCEV, Prumyslova 595, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic; (V.P.); (M.F.); (E.V.); (P.P.)
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamycka 129, 165 00 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Katerina Komrskova
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, BIOCEV, Prumyslova 595, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic; (V.P.); (M.F.); (E.V.); (P.P.)
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, Vinicna 7, 128 44 Prague 2, Czech Republic
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +420-325-873-799
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25
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Godakumara K, Ord J, Lättekivi F, Dissanayake K, Viil J, Boggavarapu NR, Faridani OR, Jääger K, Velthut-Meikas A, Jaakma Ü, Salumets A, Fazeli A. Trophoblast derived extracellular vesicles specifically alter the transcriptome of endometrial cells and may constitute a critical component of embryo-maternal communication. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2021; 19:115. [PMID: 34289864 PMCID: PMC8293585 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00801-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The period of time when the embryo and the endometrium undergo significant morphological alterations to facilitate a successful implantation-known as "window of implantation"-is a critical moment in human reproduction. Embryo and the endometrium communicate extensively during this period, and lipid bilayer bound nanoscale extracellular vesicles (EVs) are purported to be integral to this communication. METHODS To investigate the nature of the EV-mediated embryo-maternal communication, we have supplemented trophoblast analogue spheroid (JAr) derived EVs to an endometrial analogue (RL 95-2) cell layer and characterized the transcriptomic alterations using RNA sequencing. EVs derived from non-trophoblast cells (HEK293) were used as a negative control. The cargo of the EVs were also investigated through mRNA and miRNA sequencing. RESULTS Trophoblast spheroid derived EVs induced drastic transcriptomic alterations in the endometrial cells while the non-trophoblast cell derived EVs failed to induce such changes demonstrating functional specificity in terms of EV origin. Through gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), we found that the response in endometrial cells was focused on extracellular matrix remodelling and G protein-coupled receptors' signalling, both of which are of known functional relevance to endometrial receptivity. Approximately 9% of genes downregulated in endometrial cells were high-confidence predicted targets of miRNAs detected exclusively in trophoblast analogue-derived EVs, suggesting that only a small proportion of reduced expression in endometrial cells can be attributed directly to gene silencing by miRNAs carried as cargo in the EVs. CONCLUSION Our study reveals that trophoblast derived EVs have the ability to modify the endometrial gene expression, potentially with functional importance for embryo-maternal communication during implantation, although the exact underlying signalling mechanisms remain to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasun Godakumara
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tartu University, Tartu, Estonia
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - James Ord
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tartu University, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Freddy Lättekivi
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tartu University, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Keerthie Dissanayake
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tartu University, Tartu, Estonia
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Janeli Viil
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tartu University, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Nageswara Rao Boggavarapu
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, S-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Omid R Faridani
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
- Lowy Cancer Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kersti Jääger
- Competence Centre On Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Agne Velthut-Meikas
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, School of Science, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Ülle Jaakma
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Andres Salumets
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
- Competence Centre On Health Technologies, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
- Institute of Genomics, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Alireza Fazeli
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tartu University, Tartu, Estonia
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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Al-Dossary AA, Tawfik EA, Isichei AC, Sun X, Li J, Alshehri AA, Alomari M, Almughem FA, Aldossary AM, Sabit H, Almalik AM. Engineered EV-Mimetic Nanoparticles as Therapeutic Delivery Vehicles for High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13123075. [PMID: 34203051 PMCID: PMC8234974 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13123075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In this review, we begin with the role of natural extracellular vesicles (EVs) in high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC). Then, we narrow our focus on the advantages of using EV-mimetic nanoparticles as a delivery vehicle for RNAi therapy and other chemotherapeutics. Furthermore, we discuss the challenges of the clinical translation of engineering EV mimetic drug delivery systems and the promising directions of further development. Abstract High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) is the most lethal gynecological malignancy among women. Several obstacles impede the early diagnosis and effective treatment options for ovarian cancer (OC) patients, which most importantly include the development of platinum-drug-resistant strains. Currently, extensive efforts are being put into the development of strategies capable of effectively circumventing the physical and biological barriers present in the peritoneal cavity of metastatic OC patients, representing a late stage of gastrointestinal and gynecological cancer with an extremely poor prognosis. Naturally occurring extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been shown to play a pivotal role in progression of OC and are now being harnessed as a delivery vehicle for cancer chemotherapeutics. However, there are limitations to their clinical application due to current challenges in their preparation techniques. Intriguingly, there is a recent drive towards the use of engineered synthetic EVs for the delivery of chemotherapeutics and RNA interference therapy (RNAi), as they show the promise of overcoming the obstacles in the treatment of OC patients. This review discusses the therapeutic application of EVs in OC and elucidates the potential use of engineered EV-mimetic nanoparticles as a delivery vehicle for RNAi therapy and other chemotherapeutics, which would potentially improve clinical outcomes of OC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amal A. Al-Dossary
- Department of Basic Sciences, Deanship of Preparatory Year and Supporting Studies, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 1982, Dammam 34212, Saudi Arabia;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +966-1-333-31137
| | - Essam A. Tawfik
- National Center for Pharmaceutical Technology, Life Science and Environment Research Institute, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), P.O. Box 6086, Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia; (E.A.T.); (A.A.A.); (F.A.A.); (A.M.A.)
| | - Adaugo C. Isichei
- Department of Basic Sciences, Deanship of Preparatory Year and Supporting Studies, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 1982, Dammam 34212, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Xin Sun
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (X.S.); (J.L.)
| | - Jiahe Li
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (X.S.); (J.L.)
| | - Abdullah A. Alshehri
- National Center for Pharmaceutical Technology, Life Science and Environment Research Institute, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), P.O. Box 6086, Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia; (E.A.T.); (A.A.A.); (F.A.A.); (A.M.A.)
| | - Munther Alomari
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 1982, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Fahad A. Almughem
- National Center for Pharmaceutical Technology, Life Science and Environment Research Institute, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), P.O. Box 6086, Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia; (E.A.T.); (A.A.A.); (F.A.A.); (A.M.A.)
| | - Ahmad M. Aldossary
- National Center of Biotechnology, Life Science and Environment Research Institute, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), P.O. Box 6086, Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Hussein Sabit
- Department of Genetics Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 1982, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Abdulaziz M. Almalik
- National Center for Pharmaceutical Technology, Life Science and Environment Research Institute, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), P.O. Box 6086, Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia; (E.A.T.); (A.A.A.); (F.A.A.); (A.M.A.)
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27
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Exploring interactions between extracellular vesicles and cells for innovative drug delivery system design. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 173:252-278. [PMID: 33798644 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are submicron cell-secreted structures containing proteins, nucleic acids and lipids. EVs can functionally transfer these cargoes from one cell to another to modulate physiological and pathological processes. Due to their presumed biocompatibility and capacity to circumvent canonical delivery barriers encountered by synthetic drug delivery systems, EVs have attracted considerable interest as drug delivery vehicles. However, it is unclear which mechanisms and molecules orchestrate EV-mediated cargo delivery to recipient cells. Here, we review how EV properties have been exploited to improve the efficacy of small molecule drugs. Furthermore, we explore which EV surface molecules could be directly or indirectly involved in EV-mediated cargo transfer to recipient cells and discuss the cellular reporter systems with which such transfer can be studied. Finally, we elaborate on currently identified cellular processes involved in EV cargo delivery. Through these topics, we provide insights in critical effectors in the EV-cell interface which may be exploited in nature-inspired drug delivery strategies.
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28
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Trigg NA, Stanger SJ, Zhou W, Skerrett-Byrne DA, Sipilä P, Dun MD, Eamens AL, De Iuliis GN, Bromfield EG, Roman SD, Nixon B. A novel role for milk fat globule-EGF factor 8 protein (MFGE8) in the mediation of mouse sperm-extracellular vesicle interactions. Proteomics 2021; 21:e2000079. [PMID: 33792189 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.202000079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Spermatozoa transition to functional maturity as they are conveyed through the epididymis, a highly specialized region of the male excurrent duct system. Owing to their transcriptionally and translationally inert state, this transformation into fertilization competent cells is driven by complex mechanisms of intercellular communication with the secretory epithelium that delineates the epididymal tubule. Chief among these mechanisms are the release of extracellular vesicles (EV), which have been implicated in the exchange of varied macromolecular cargo with spermatozoa. Here, we describe the optimization of a tractable cell culture model to study the mechanistic basis of sperm-extracellular vesicle interactions. In tandem with receptor inhibition strategies, our data demonstrate the importance of milk fat globule-EGF factor 8 (MFGE8) protein in mediating the efficient exchange of macromolecular EV cargo with mouse spermatozoa; with the MFGE8 integrin-binding Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) tripeptide motif identified as being of particular importance. Specifically, complementary strategies involving MFGE8 RGD domain ablation, competitive RGD-peptide inhibition and antibody-masking of alpha V integrin receptors, all significantly inhibited the uptake and redistribution of EV-delivered proteins into immature mouse spermatozoa. These collective data implicate the MFGE8 ligand and its cognate integrin receptor in the mediation of the EV interactions that underpin sperm maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie A Trigg
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Simone J Stanger
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Wei Zhou
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Gynaecology Research Centre, The Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - David A Skerrett-Byrne
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Petra Sipilä
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, and Turku Center for Disease Modeling, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Matthew D Dun
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Cancer Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Andrew L Eamens
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Geoffry N De Iuliis
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Elizabeth G Bromfield
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Shaun D Roman
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Drug Development, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
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29
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Lee SH, Lira-Albarrán S, Saadeldin IM. Comprehensive Proteomics Analysis of In Vitro Canine Oviductal Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11020573. [PMID: 33672125 PMCID: PMC7926305 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020573] [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: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary As the dog shows unique and peculiar reproductive characteristics, assisted reproductive techniques such as in vitro maturation and in vitro fertilization have not been well-established compared with those of other mammals. Our recent work demonstrated the interplay between in vitro oviductal cell-derived extracellular vesicles (OC-EVs) and cumulus-oocyte complexes in dogs. Here, we provided for the first time a comprehensive proteomic analysis of OC-EVs. A total of 398 proteins were identified in all OC-EVs samples. A functional enrichment analysis indicated that these core proteins were involved in the key cellular metabolic process related to oocyte maturation and embryonic development. The current comprehensive description of the canine OC-EVs proteome would provide a fundamental resource for further understanding canine reproductive physiology, the interaction of sperms with female counterparts during fertilization, early pregnancy, and establishing an efficient system of in vitro embryo production. Abstract Dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) have unique and peculiar reproductive characteristics. While the interplay between in vitro oviductal cell-derived extracellular vesicles (OC-EVs) and cumulus-oocyte complexes in dogs has begun to be elucidated, no study has yet provided extensive information on the biological content and physiological function of OC-EVs and their role in canine oocyte development. Here, we aimed to provide the first comprehensive proteomic analysis of OC-EVs. We identified 398 proteins as present in all OC-EVs samples. The functional enrichment analysis using Gene Ontology terms and an Ingenuity Pathway Analysis revealed that the identified proteins were involved in several cellular metabolic processes, including translation, synthesis, expression, and protein metabolism. Notably, the proteins were also involved in critical canonical pathways with essential functions in oocyte and embryo development, such as ERK/MAPK, EIF2, PI3K/AKT, and mTOR signaling. These data would be an important resource for studying canine reproductive physiology and establishing a successful in vitro embryo production system in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seok Hee Lee
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA;
- Correspondence: (S.H.L.); (I.M.S.); Tel.: +1-4154760932 (S.H.L.); +966-530910740 (I.M.S.)
| | - Saúl Lira-Albarrán
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA;
| | - Islam M Saadeldin
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
- King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Department of Comparative Medicine, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: (S.H.L.); (I.M.S.); Tel.: +1-4154760932 (S.H.L.); +966-530910740 (I.M.S.)
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30
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Abstract
Within the reproductive tract, distinct cell types must have precisely controlled communication for complex processes such as gamete production, fertilisation and implantation. Intercellular communication in many physiological processes involves extracellular vesicles (EVs). In reproductive systems, EVs have been implicated in many aspects, from gamete maturation to embryo development. Sperm develop within the testis and then exit into the epididymis in an immature form, lacking motility and fertilising capabilities. Due to their small size, compact nature of the nucleus and the lack of specific organelles, sperm are unable to perform de novo protein synthesis, and thus rely on extrinsic signals delivered from the external milieu to gain full function. Mounting evidence points to EVs as being a major provider of these signals, not just within the male reproductive tract but also within the female as the sperm make their way through a seemingly hostile environment to the oocyte. In this chapter, we review the current knowledge on EVs as mediators of sperm maturation and function and highlight their potential roles in male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie J Foot
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
| | - Sharad Kumar
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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31
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Extracellular Vesicles, the Road toward the Improvement of ART Outcomes. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10112171. [PMID: 33233342 PMCID: PMC7700519 DOI: 10.3390/ani10112171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, farm animal industries use assisted reproductive technologies (ART) as a tool to manage herds' reproductive outcomes, for a fast dissemination of genetic improvement as well as to bypass subfertility issues. ART comprise at least one of the following procedures: collection and handling of oocytes, sperm, and embryos in in vitro conditions. Therefore, in these conditions, the interaction with the oviductal environment of gametes and early embryos during fertilization and the first stages of embryo development is lost. As a result, embryos obtained in in vitro fertilization (IVF) have less quality in comparison with those obtained in vivo, and have lower chances to implant and develop into viable offspring. In addition, media currently used for IVF are very similar to those empirically developed more than five decades ago. Recently, the importance of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the fertility process has flourished. EVs are recognized as effective intercellular vehicles for communication as they deliver their cargo of proteins, lipids, and genetic material. Thus, during their transit through the female reproductive tract both gametes, oocyte and spermatozoa (that previously encountered EVs produced by male reproductive tract) interact with EVs produced by the female reproductive tract, passing them important information that contributes to a successful fertilization and embryo development. This fact highlights that the reproductive tract EVs cargo has an important role in reproductive events, which is missing in current ART media. This review aims to recapitulate recent advances in EVs functions on the fertilization process, highlighting the latest proposals with an applied approach to enhance ART outcome through EV utilization as an additive to the media of current ART procedures.
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32
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Harris EA, Stephens KK, Winuthayanon W. Extracellular Vesicles and the Oviduct Function. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218280. [PMID: 33167378 PMCID: PMC7663821 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, the oviduct (or the Fallopian tube in humans) can be divided into the infundibulum (responsible for oocyte pick-up), ampulla (site of fertilization), isthmus (where preimplantation embryos develop), and uterotubal junction (where embryos transit to the uterus). The oviductal fluid, as well as extracellular vesicles produced from the oviduct epithelial cells, referred to as oEVs, have been shown to improve the fertilization process, prevent polyspermy, and aid in embryo development. oEVs contain molecular cargos (such as miRNAs, mRNAs, proteins, and lipids) that can be delivered and fuse to recipient cells. oEVs produced from the ampulla appear to be functionally distinct from those produced from the isthmus. In multiple species including mice, cats, dogs, pigs, and cows, oEVs can be incorporated into the oocytes, sperm, and embryos. In this review, we show the positive impact of oEVs on gamete function as well as blastocyst development and how they may improve embryo quality in in vitro conditions in an assisted reproductive technology setting for rodents, domestic animals, farm animals, and humans.
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33
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Qamar AY, Mahiddine FY, Bang S, Fang X, Shin ST, Kim MJ, Cho J. Extracellular Vesicle Mediated Crosstalk Between the Gametes, Conceptus, and Female Reproductive Tract. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:589117. [PMID: 33195625 PMCID: PMC7661581 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.589117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) mediated intracellular communication plays an imperative role in the proper completion of different physiological events. Most of the bio-fluids are enriched with several subpopulations of EVs including exosomes and microvesicles (MVs), with the capacity of transferring different functional molecules (lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids) to target cells. Recipient cells upon receiving the signal molecules undergo different changes that positively affect the structural and functional integrity of the cells. This article was aimed to highlight the role of EVs secreted by gametes, the female reproductive tract, and the growing conceptus in the successful completion of different reproductive events related to gestation. EVs associated with the reproductive system are actively involved in the regulation of different physiological events including gamete maturation, fertilization, and embryo and fetal development. In the reproductive system, EVs mediated intracellular communication is not unidirectional but is rather regulated through crosstalk between the reproductive tract and the growing conceptus. These vesicles are secreted from the ovary, oviductal epithelium, endometrium, developing embryo, and the placenta. The cargo inside these vesicles exerts pleiotropic effects on both maternal and embryonic environments. A better understanding of the EVs-mediated crosstalk will be helpful in the development of useful tools serving both the diagnostic as well as therapeutic needs related to female fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Yar Qamar
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Jhang, Sub-Campus University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Feriel Yasmine Mahiddine
- Department of Theriogenology and Biotechnology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seonggyu Bang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Xun Fang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Sang Tae Shin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Min Jung Kim
- Department of Theriogenology and Biotechnology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jongki Cho
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
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Tetraspanins, More than Markers of Extracellular Vesicles in Reproduction. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21207568. [PMID: 33066349 PMCID: PMC7589920 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21207568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The participation of extracellular vesicles in many cellular processes, including reproduction, is unquestionable. Although currently, the tetraspanin proteins found in extracellular vesicles are mostly applied as markers, increasing evidence points to their role in extracellular vesicle biogenesis, cargo selection, cell targeting, and cell uptake under both physiological and pathological conditions. In this review, we bring other insight into the involvement of tetraspanin proteins in extracellular vesicle physiology in mammalian reproduction. We provide knowledge regarding the involvement of extracellular vesicle tetraspanins in these processes in somatic cells. Furthermore, we discuss the future direction towards an understanding of their functions in the tissues and fluids of the mammalian reproductive system in gamete maturation, fertilization, and embryo development; their involvement in mutual cell contact and communication in their complexity.
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Saint-Dizier M, Mahé C, Reynaud K, Tsikis G, Mermillod P, Druart X. Sperm interactions with the female reproductive tract: A key for successful fertilization in mammals. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 516:110956. [PMID: 32712384 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Sperm migration through the female genital tract is not a quiet journey. Uterine contractions quickly operate a drastic selection, leading to a very restrictive number of sperm reaching the top of uterine horns and finally, provided the presence of key molecules on sperm, the oviduct, where fertilization takes place. During hours and sometimes days before fertilization, subpopulations of spermatozoa interact with dynamic and region-specific maternal components, including soluble proteins, extracellular vesicles and epithelial cells lining the lumen of the female tract. Interactions with uterine and oviductal cells play important roles for sperm survival as they modulate the maternal immune response and allow a transient storage before ovulation. The body of work reported here highlights the importance of sperm interactions with proteins originated from both the uterine and oviductal fluids, as well as hormonal signals around the time of ovulation for sperm acquisition of fertilizing competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Saint-Dizier
- INRAE, UMR PRC, 37380, Nouzilly, France; University of Tours, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, 37000, Tours, France.
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Banliat C, Le Bourhis D, Bernardi O, Tomas D, Labas V, Salvetti P, Guyonnet B, Mermillod P, Saint-Dizier M. Oviduct Fluid Extracellular Vesicles Change the Phospholipid Composition of Bovine Embryos Developed In Vitro. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21155326. [PMID: 32727074 PMCID: PMC7432015 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21155326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Oviduct fluid extracellular vesicles (oEVs) have been proposed as bringing key molecules to the early developing embryo. In order to evaluate the changes induced by oEVs on embryo phospholipids, fresh bovine blastocysts developed in vitro in the presence or absence of oEVs were analyzed by intact cell MALDI-TOF (Matrix assisted laser desorption ionization—Time of flight) mass spectrometry (ICM-MS). The development rates, cryotolerance, and total cell number of blastocysts were also evaluated. The exposure to oEVs did not affect blastocyst yield or cryotolerance but modified the phospholipid content of blastocysts with specific changes before and after blastocoel expansion. The annotation of differential peaks due to oEV exposure evidenced a shift of embryo phospholipids toward more abundant phosphatidylcholines (PC), phosphatidylethanolamines (PE), and sphingomyelins (SM) with long-chain fatty acids. The lipidomic profiling of oEVs showed that 100% and 33% of the overabundant masses in blastocysts and expanded blastocysts, respectively, were also present in oEVs. In conclusion, this study provides the first analysis of the embryo lipidome regulated by oEVs. Exposure to oEVs induced significant changes in the phospholipid composition of resulting embryos, probably mediated by the incorporation of oEV-phospholipids into embryo membranes and by the modulation of the embryonic lipid metabolism by oEV molecular cargos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Banliat
- INRAE, CNRS, University of Tours, IFCE, UMR 85 PRC, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (O.B.); (D.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
- Union Evolution, F-35530 Noyal-Sur-Vilaine, France;
| | | | - Ophélie Bernardi
- INRAE, CNRS, University of Tours, IFCE, UMR 85 PRC, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (O.B.); (D.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
| | - Daniel Tomas
- INRAE, CNRS, University of Tours, IFCE, UMR 85 PRC, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (O.B.); (D.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
- INRAE, Université de Tours, CHU de Tours, Plate-forme CIRE, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Valérie Labas
- INRAE, CNRS, University of Tours, IFCE, UMR 85 PRC, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (O.B.); (D.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
- INRAE, Université de Tours, CHU de Tours, Plate-forme CIRE, F-37380 Nouzilly, France
| | | | | | - Pascal Mermillod
- INRAE, CNRS, University of Tours, IFCE, UMR 85 PRC, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (O.B.); (D.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
| | - Marie Saint-Dizier
- INRAE, CNRS, University of Tours, IFCE, UMR 85 PRC, F-37380 Nouzilly, France; (C.B.); (O.B.); (D.T.); (V.L.); (P.M.)
- Department Agrosciences, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, University of Tours, F-37200 Tours, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-2-47-42-75-08
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Almiñana C, Bauersachs S. Extracellular vesicles: Multi-signal messengers in the gametes/embryo-oviduct cross-talk. Theriogenology 2020; 150:59-69. [PMID: 32088033 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.01.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as novel cell-to-cell communication mediators in physiological and pathological scenarios. Their ability to transfer their molecular cargo (RNAs, proteins and lipids) from one cell to another, in the vicinity or far from the cell of origin, together with their capacity of exerting a functional impact on the target cell make them valuable diagnostic tools as well as therapeutic vectors in a variety of diseases. In the reproductive field, there is a growing interest in the role of EVs in gamete/embryo-maternal communication and their potential implications in the reproductive success. In this review, we provide current knowledge of EVs secreted by the oviduct (oEVs) and embryos (eEVs), since both have been proposed as key players in the crucial two-way dialogue between the oviduct (lining epithelium and secretions) and the embryo that ensures successful pregnancy. Both oEVs and eEVs molecular cargos and their potential role as multi-signal messengers in the gametes/embryo-oviduct cross-talk and in the embryo-to-embryo communication in different species are also addressed. Eventually, a comparative analysis between oEVs and eEVs has been performed to shed some light on common and specific cargos responsible for their functions supporting the early reproductive events and as prime candidate molecules for improving fertility and assisted reproductive technologies outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Almiñana
- University of Zurich, Genetics and Functional Genomics Group, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, VetSuisse Faculty, Zurich, Switzerland; UMR85 PRC, INRA, CNRS 7247, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France.
| | - Stefan Bauersachs
- University of Zurich, Genetics and Functional Genomics Group, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, VetSuisse Faculty, Zurich, Switzerland.
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de Almeida Monteiro Melo Ferraz M, Nagashima JB, Noonan MJ, Crosier AE, Songsasen N. Oviductal Extracellular Vesicles Improve Post-Thaw Sperm Function in Red Wolves and Cheetahs. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E3733. [PMID: 32466321 PMCID: PMC7279450 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Artificial insemination (AI) is a valuable tool for ex situ wildlife conservation, allowing the re-infusion and dissemination of genetic material, even after death of the donor. However, the application of AI to species conservation is still limited, due mainly to the poor survival of cryopreserved sperm. Recent work demonstrated that oviductal extracellular vesicles (oEVs) improved cat sperm motility and reduced premature acrosomal exocytosis. Here, we build on these findings by describing the protein content of dog and cat oEVs and investigating whether the incubation of cryopreserved red wolf and cheetah sperm with oEVs during thawing improves sperm function. Both red wolf and cheetah sperm thawed with dog and cat oEVs, respectively, had more intact acrosomes than the non-EV controls. Moreover, red wolf sperm thawed in the presence of dog oEVs better maintained sperm motility over time (>15%) though such an improvement was not observed in cheetah sperm. Our work demonstrates that dog and cat oEVs carry proteins important for sperm function and improve post-thaw motility and/or acrosome integrity of red wolf and cheetah sperm in vitro. The findings show how oEVs can be a valuable tool for improving the success of AI with cryopreserved sperm in threatened species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennifer Beth Nagashima
- Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA; (J.B.N.); (M.J.N.); (A.E.C.); (N.S.)
| | - Michael James Noonan
- Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA; (J.B.N.); (M.J.N.); (A.E.C.); (N.S.)
- The Irving K. Barber School of Arts and Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, 1177 Research Road, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Adrienne E. Crosier
- Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA; (J.B.N.); (M.J.N.); (A.E.C.); (N.S.)
| | - Nucharin Songsasen
- Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA; (J.B.N.); (M.J.N.); (A.E.C.); (N.S.)
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39
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Kadam K, Khole VV, Ghosalkar K, Jagtap D, Yarramala DS, Ramachandran B. Thiol based mechanism internalises interacting partners to outer dense fibers in sperm. Free Radic Biol Med 2020; 148:170-181. [PMID: 31923584 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2019.12.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The sperm tail outer dense fibres (ODFs) contribute passive structural role in sperm motility. The level of disulphide cross-linking of ODFs and their structural thickness determines flagellar bending curvature and motility. During epididymal maturation, proteins are internalized to modify ODF disulphide cross-linking and enable motility. Sperm thiol status is further altered during capacitation in female tract. This suggests that components in female reproductive tract acting on thiol/disulphides could be capable of modulating the tail stiffness to facilitate modulation of the sperm tail rigidity and waveform en route to fertilization. Understanding the biochemical properties and client proteins of ODFs in reproductive tract fluids will help bridge this gap. Using recombinant ODF2 (aka Testis Specific Antigen of 70 kDa) as bait, we identified client proteins in male and female reproductive fluids. A thiol-based interaction and internalization indicates sperm can harness reproductive tract fluids for proteins that interact with ODFs and likely modulate the tail stiffness en route to fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaushiki Kadam
- Department of Gamete Immunobiology, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, J.M Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India.
| | - Vrinda V Khole
- Department of Gamete Immunobiology, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, J.M Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India
| | - Kanaka Ghosalkar
- Department of Gamete Immunobiology, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, J.M Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India
| | - Dhanashree Jagtap
- Structural Biology Department, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, J.M Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India
| | - Deepthi S Yarramala
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai, 400 076, India
| | - Bini Ramachandran
- Thermo Fisher Scientific India Pvt. Ltd, 403-404, Delphi 'B' Wing, Hiranandani Business Park, Powai, Mumbai, 400076, India
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40
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Franchi A, Moreno-Irusta A, Domínguez EM, Adre AJ, Giojalas LC. Extracellular vesicles from oviductal isthmus and ampulla stimulate the induced acrosome reaction and signaling events associated with capacitation in bovine spermatozoa. J Cell Biochem 2019; 121:2877-2888. [PMID: 31692037 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.29522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cells can communicate with other neighboring or distant cells through the secretion of extracellular vesicles (EV), composed of a lipid bilayer and bearing surface molecules that allow them to recognize target cells. In this way, EV induce signaling via different mechanisms, modulating the physiological state of the recipient cell. EV have been identified in both male and female reproductive fluids, however, the possible role of EV isolated from female reproductive fluids has become an emerging field only recently. It is known that ejaculated mammalian spermatozoa need to undergo physiological preparation in the female reproductive tract to fertilize the egg. EV secreted by different regions of the female tract constitute signals that may have a key role in regulating sperm functions. The aims of the present study were isolating EV from different regions of the bovine oviduct and analyzing their interaction and physiological effects on spermatozoa. Here, we report the characterization of bovine oviductal fluid EV from the isthmus and ampulla region and their effect on the induced acrosome reaction and signaling events associated with sperm capacitation. EV induced an increase in sperm protein tyrosine phosphorylation, while cell survival of cryopreserved bovine spermatozoa was maintained. We also show that EV uptake regulates the sperm calcium levels by inducing an immediate increase in the intracellular calcium concentration and sperm priming, after a pre-incubation period, of the progesterone-induced intracellular calcium rise. Our data contribute to understand the role of EV in the communication between the female reproductive tract and the sperm physiology, information that may be used to improve the efficiency of reproductive assisted technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Franchi
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular (FCEFyN - UNC) and Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET-UNC), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - A Moreno-Irusta
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular (FCEFyN - UNC) and Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET-UNC), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - E M Domínguez
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular (FCEFyN - UNC) and Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET-UNC), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - A J Adre
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular (FCEFyN - UNC) and Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET-UNC), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - L C Giojalas
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular (FCEFyN - UNC) and Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET-UNC), Córdoba, Argentina
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41
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Zhang Y, Shi J, Rassoulzadegan M, Tuorto F, Chen Q. Sperm RNA code programmes the metabolic health of offspring. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2019; 15:489-498. [PMID: 31235802 PMCID: PMC6626572 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-019-0226-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian sperm RNA is increasingly recognized as an additional source of paternal hereditary information beyond DNA. Environmental inputs, including an unhealthy diet, mental stresses and toxin exposure, can reshape the sperm RNA signature and induce offspring phenotypes that relate to paternal environmental stressors. Our understanding of the categories of sperm RNAs (such as tRNA-derived small RNAs, microRNAs, ribosomal RNA-derived small RNAs and long non-coding RNAs) and associated RNA modifications is expanding and has begun to reveal the functional diversity and information capacity of these molecules. However, the coding mechanism endowed by sperm RNA structures and by RNA interactions with DNA and other epigenetic factors remains unknown. How sperm RNA-encoded information is decoded in early embryos to control offspring phenotypes also remains unclear. Complete deciphering of the 'sperm RNA code' with regard to metabolic control could move the field towards translational applications and precision medicine, and this may lead to prevention of intergenerational transmission of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunfang Zhang
- Medical Center of Hematology, The Xinqiao Hospital of Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Junchao Shi
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, USA
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
| | | | - Francesca Tuorto
- Division of Epigenetics, DKFZ-ZMBH Alliance, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, USA.
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA.
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Ferraz MDAMM, Carothers A, Dahal R, Noonan MJ, Songsasen N. Oviductal extracellular vesicles interact with the spermatozoon's head and mid-piece and improves its motility and fertilizing ability in the domestic cat. Sci Rep 2019; 9:9484. [PMID: 31263184 PMCID: PMC6603010 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-45857-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Fertilization and early embryo development are regulated by a unique maternal-gamete/embryo cross-talk within the oviduct. Recent studies have shown that extracellular vesicles (EVs) within the oviduct play important roles in mediating this developmental process. Here, we examined the influence of oviductal EVs on sperm function in the domestic cat. We demonstrated that (1) EVs are enriched in proteins related to energy metabolism, membrane modification, and reproductive function; (2) EVs bound and fused with the membranes of the acrosome and mid piece; and (3) incubating sperm with EVs improved motility, fertilizing capacity of cat spermatozoa and prevented acrosomal exocytosis in vitro. These findings indicated that oviductal EVs mediate sperm function and fertilization in the cat and provides new insights to improve sperm cryopreservation and in vitro fertilization in the domestic and wild felids and human.
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Affiliation(s)
- M de A M M Ferraz
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, Virginia, 22630, USA.
| | - A Carothers
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, Virginia, 22630, USA
| | - R Dahal
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, Virginia, 22630, USA
| | - M J Noonan
- Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, Virginia, 22630, USA
- Department of Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, 20742, USA
| | - N Songsasen
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, Virginia, 22630, USA
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43
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Efficient isolation, biophysical characterisation and molecular composition of extracellular vesicles secreted by primary and immortalised cells of reproductive origin. Theriogenology 2019; 135:121-137. [PMID: 31207473 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Revised: 05/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Effective communication between the maternal reproductive tract, gametes and the pre-implantation embryo is essential for the successful establishment of pregnancy. Recent studies have recognised extracellular vesicles (EVs) as potent vehicles for intercellular communication, potentially via their transport of microRNAs (miRNAs). The aim of the current investigation was to determine the size, concentration and electrical surface properties (zeta potential) of EVs secreted by; (1) primary cultures of porcine oviductal epithelial cells (POECs) from the isthmus and ampullary regions of the female reproductive tract; (2) Ishikawa and RL95-2 human endometrial epithelial cell line cultures; and (3) the non-reproductive epithelial cell line HEK293T. In addition, this study investigated whether EVs secreted by POECs contained miRNAs. All cell types were cultured in EV-depleted medium for 24 or 48 h. EVs were successfully isolated from conditioned culture media using size exclusion chromatography. Nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) was performed to evaluate EV size, concentration and zeta potential. QRT-PCR was performed to quantify the expression of candidate miRNAs (miR-103, let-7a, miR-19a, miR-203, miR-126, miR-19b, RNU44, miR-92, miR-196a, miR-326 and miR-23a). NTA confirmed the presence of EVs with diameters of 50-150 nm in all cell types. EV size distribution was significantly different between cell types after 24 and 48 h of cell culture and the concentration of EVs secreted by POECs and Ishikawa cells was also time dependent. The distribution of EVs with specific electrokinetic potential measurements varied between cell types, indicating that EVs of differing cellular origin have varied membrane components. In addition, EVs secreted by POECs exhibited significantly different time dependant changes in zeta potential. QRT-PCR confirmed the presence of miR-103, let-7a, miR-19a, miR-203, miR-126, and miR-19b in EVs secreted by POECs (CT ≥ 29). Bioinformatics analysis suggests that these miRNAs are involved in cell proliferation, innate immune responses, apoptosis and cellular migration. In conclusion, reproductive epithelial cells secrete distinct populations of EVs containing miRNAs, which potentially act in intercellular communication in order to modulate the periconception events leading to successful establishment of pregnancy.
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44
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Trigg NA, Eamens AL, Nixon B. The contribution of epididymosomes to the sperm small RNA profile. Reproduction 2019; 157:R209-R223. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-18-0480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
It is now well established that mature spermatozoa harbour a rich and diverse profile of small non-protein-coding regulatory RNAs (sRNAs). There is also growing appreciation that this sRNA profile displays considerable plasticity, being altered in response to paternal exposure to a variety of environmental stressors. Coupled with evidence that upon delivery to the oocyte at the moment of fertilisation, sperm-borne sRNAs are able to influence both early embryonic development and the subsequent health of the offspring, there is now interest in both the timing and degree of change in the composition of the sRNA cargo of sperm. Models in which such epigenetic changes are linked to the spermatogenic cycle are seemingly incompatible with the lack of overt phenotypic changes in the spermatozoa of affected males. Rather, there is mounting consensus that such changes are imposed on sperm during their transit and storage within the epididymis, a protracted developmental window that takes place over several weeks. Notably, since spermatozoa are rendered transcriptionally and translationally silent during their development in the testes, it is most likely that the epididymis-documented alterations to the sperm sRNA profile are driven extrinsically, with a leading candidate being epididymosomes: small membrane enclosed extracellular vesicles that encapsulate a complex macromolecular cargo of proteins and RNAs, including the sRNAs. Here, we review the role of epididymosome–sperm communication in contributing to the establishment of the sperm sRNA profile during their epididymal transit.
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45
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Almiñana C, Bauersachs S. Extracellular Vesicles in the Oviduct: Progress, Challenges and Implications for the Reproductive Success. Bioengineering (Basel) 2019; 6:bioengineering6020032. [PMID: 31013857 PMCID: PMC6632016 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering6020032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The oviduct is the anatomical part of the female reproductive tract where the early reproductive events take place, from gamete transport, fertilization and early embryo development to the delivery of a competent embryo to the uterus, which can implant and develop to term. The success of all these events rely upon a two-way dialogue between the oviduct (lining epithelium and secretions) and the gametes/embryo(s). Recently, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been identified as major components of oviductal secretions and pointed to as mediators of the gamete/embryo-maternal interactions. EVs, comprising exosomes and microvesicles, have emerged as important agents of cell-to-cell communication by the transfer of biomolecules (i.e., mRNAs, miRNAs, proteins) that can modulate the activities of recipient cells. Here, we provide the current knowledge of EVs in the oviductal environment, from isolation to characterization, and a description of the EVs molecular content and associated functional aspects in different species. The potential role of oviductal EVs (oEVs) as modulators of gamete/embryo-oviduct interactions and their implications in the success of early reproductive events is addressed. Lastly, we discuss current challenges and future directions towards the potential application of oEVs as therapeutic vectors to improve pregnancy disorders, infertility problems and increase the success of assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Almiñana
- Genetics and Functional Genomics Group, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
- UMR85 PRC, INRA, CNRS 7247, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380 Nouzilly, France.
| | - Stefan Bauersachs
- Genetics and Functional Genomics Group, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
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Nixon B, De Iuliis GN, Hart HM, Zhou W, Mathe A, Bernstein IR, Anderson AL, Stanger SJ, Skerrett-Byrne DA, Jamaluddin MFB, Almazi JG, Bromfield EG, Larsen MR, Dun MD. Proteomic Profiling of Mouse Epididymosomes Reveals their Contributions to Post-testicular Sperm Maturation. Mol Cell Proteomics 2019; 18:S91-S108. [PMID: 30213844 PMCID: PMC6427233 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.ra118.000946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The functional maturation of spermatozoa that is necessary to achieve fertilization occurs as these cells transit through the epididymis, a highly specialized region of the male reproductive tract. A defining feature of this maturation process is that it occurs in the complete absence of nuclear gene transcription or de novo, protein translation in the spermatozoa. Rather, it is driven by sequential interactions between spermatozoa and the complex external milieu in which they are bathed within lumen of the epididymal tubule. A feature of this dynamic microenvironment are epididymosomes, small membrane encapsulated vesicles that are secreted from the epididymal soma. Herein, we report comparative proteomic profiling of epididymosomes isolated from different segments of the mouse epididymis using multiplexed tandem mass tag (TMT) based quantification coupled with high resolution LC-MS/MS. A total of 1640 epididymosome proteins were identified and quantified via this proteomic method. Notably, this analysis revealed pronounced segment-to-segment variation in the encapsulated epididymosome proteome. Thus, 146 proteins were identified as being differentially accumulated between caput and corpus epididymosomes, and a further 344 were differentially accumulated between corpus and cauda epididymosomes (i.e., fold change of ≤ -1.5 or ≥ 1.5; p, < 0.05). Application of gene ontology annotation revealed a substantial portion of the epididymosome proteins mapped to the cellular component of extracellular exosome and to the biological processes of transport, oxidation-reduction, and metabolism. Additional annotation of the subset of epididymosome proteins that have not previously been identified in exosomes revealed enrichment of categories associated with the acquisition of sperm function (e.g., fertilization and binding to the zona pellucida). In tandem with our demonstration that epididymosomes are able to convey protein cargo to the head of maturing spermatozoa, these data emphasize the fundamental importance of epididymosomes as key elements of the epididymal microenvironment responsible for coordinating post-testicular sperm maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett Nixon
- From the ‡Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Geoffry N De Iuliis
- From the ‡Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Hanah M Hart
- From the ‡Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Wei Zhou
- From the ‡Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Andrea Mathe
- From the ‡Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia;; School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Ilana R Bernstein
- From the ‡Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Amanda L Anderson
- From the ‡Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Simone J Stanger
- From the ‡Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - David A Skerrett-Byrne
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - M Fairuz B Jamaluddin
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia;; Hunter Medical Research Institute, Cancer Research Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Juhura G Almazi
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia;; Hunter Medical Research Institute, Cancer Research Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Elizabeth G Bromfield
- From the ‡Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Martin R Larsen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, DK-5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Matthew D Dun
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia;; Hunter Medical Research Institute, Cancer Research Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia.
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Bathala P, Fereshteh Z, Li K, Al-Dossary AA, Galileo DS, Martin-DeLeon PA. Oviductal extracellular vesicles (oviductosomes, OVS) are conserved in humans: murine OVS play a pivotal role in sperm capacitation and fertility. Mol Hum Reprod 2019; 24:143-157. [PMID: 29370405 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gay003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 01/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTIONS Are extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the murine oviduct (oviductosomes, OVS) conserved in humans and do they play a role in the fertility of Pmca4-/- females? SUMMARY ANSWER OVS and their fertility-modulating proteins are conserved in humans, arise via the apocrine pathway, and mediate a compensatory upregulation of PMCA1 (plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase 1) in Pmca4-/- female mice during proestrus/estrus, to account for their fertility. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Recently murine OVS were identified and shown during proestrus/estrus to express elevated levels of PMCA4 which they can deliver to sperm. PMCA4 is the major Ca2+ efflux pump in murine sperm and Pmca4 deletion leads to loss of sperm motility and male infertility as there is no compensatory upregulation of the remaining Ca2+ pump, PMCA1. Of the four family members of PMCAs (PMCA1-4), PMCA1 and PMCA4 are ubiquitous, and to date there have been no reports of one isoform being upregulated to compensate for another in any organ/tissue. Since Pmca4-/- females are fertile, despite the abundant expression of PMCA4 in wild-type (WT) OVS, we propose that OVS serve a role of packaging and delivering to sperm elevated levels of PMCA1 in Pmca4-/- during proestrus/estrus to compensate for PMCA4's absence. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Fallopian tubes from pre-menopausal women undergoing hysterectomy were used to study EVs in the luminal fluid. Oviducts from sexually mature WT mice were sectioned after perfusion fixation to detect EVs in situ. Oviducts were recovered from WT and Pmca4-/- after hormonally induced estrus and sectioned for PMCA1 immunofluorescence (IF) (detected with confocal microscopy) and hematoxylin and eosin staining. Reproductive tissues, luminal fluids and EVs were recovered after induced estrus and after natural cycling for western blot analysis of PMCA1 and qRT-PCR of Pmca1 to compare expression levels in WT and Pmca4-/-. OVS, uterosomes, and epididymal luminal fluid were included in the comparisons. WT and Pmca4-/- OVS were analyzed for the presence of known PMCA4 partners in sperm and their ability to interact with PMCA1, via co-immunoprecipitation. In vitro uptake of PMCA1 from OVS was analyzed in capacitated and uncapacitated sperm via quantitative western blot analysis, IF localization and flow cytometry. Caudal sperm were also assayed for uptake of tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins which were shown to be present in OVS. Finally, PMCA1 and PMCA4 in OVS and that delivered to sperm were assayed for enzymatic activity. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Human fallopian tubes were flushed to recover luminal fluid which was processed for OVS via ultracentrifugation. Human OVS were negatively stained for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and subjected to immunogold labeling, to detect PMCA4. Western analysis was used to detect HSC70 (an EV biomarker), PMCA1 and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) which is a fertility-modulating protein delivered to human sperm by prostasomes. Oviducts of sexually mature female mice were sectioned after perfusion fixation for TEM tomography to obtain 3D information and to distinguish cross-sections of EVs from those of microvilli and cilia. Murine tissues, luminal fluids and EVs were assayed for PMCA1 (IF and western blot) or qRT-PCR. PMCA1 levels from western blots were quantified, using band densities and compared in WT and Pmca4-/- after induced estrus and in proestrus/estrus and metestrus/diestrus in cycling females. In vitro uptake of PMCA1 and tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins was quantified with flow cytometry and/or quantitative western blot. Ca2+-ATPase activity in OVS and sperm before and after PMCA1 and PMCA4 uptake was assayed, via the enzymatic hydrolysis rate of ATP. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE TEM revealed that human oviducts contain EVs (exosomal and microvesicular). These EVs contain PMCA4 (immunolabeling), eNOS and PMCA1 (western blot) in their cargo. TEM tomography showed the murine oviduct with EV-containing blebs which typify the apocrine pathway for EV biogenesis. Western blots revealed that during proestrus/estrus PMCA1 was significantly elevated in the oviductal luminal fluid (OLF) (P = 0.02) and in OVS (P = 0.03) of Pmca4-/-, compared to WT. Further, while PMCA1 levels did not fluctuate in OLF during the cycle in WT, they were significantly (P = 0.02) higher in proestrus/estrus than at metestrus/diestrus in Pmca4-/-. The elevated levels of PMCA1 in proestrus/estrus, which mimics PMCA4 in WT, is OLF/OVS-specific, and is not seen in oviductal tissues, uterosomes or epididymal luminal fluid of Pmca4-/-. However, qRT-PCR revealed significantly elevated levels of Pmca1 transcript in Pmca4-/- oviductal tissues, compared to WT. PMCA1 could be transferred from OVS to sperm and the levels were significantly higher for capacitated vs uncapacitated sperm, as assessed by flow cytometry (P = 0.001) after 3 h co-incubation, quantitative western blot (P < 0.05) and the frequency of immuno-labeled sperm (P < 0.001) after 30 min co-incubation. Tyrosine phosphorylated proteins were discovered in murine OVS and could be delivered to sperm after their co-incubation with OVS, as detected by western, immunofluorescence localization, and flow cytometry. PMCA1 and PMCA4 in OVS were shown to be enzymatically active and this activity increased in sperm after OVS interaction. LARGE SCALE DATA None. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION Although oviductal tissues of WT and Pmca4-/- showed no significant difference in PMCA1 levels, Pmca4-/- levels of OVS/OLF during proestrus/estrus were significantly higher than in WT. We have attributed this enrichment or upregulation of PMCA1 in Pmca4-/- partly to selective packaging in OVS to compensate for the lack of PMCA4. However, in the absence of a difference between WT and Pmca4-/- in the PMCA1 levels in oviductal tissues as a whole, we cannot rule out significantly higher PMCA1 expression in the oviductal epithelium that gives rise to the OVS as significantly higher Pmca1 transcripts were detected in Pmca4-/-. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Since OVS and fertility-modulating cargo components are conserved in humans, it suggests that murine OVS role in regulating the expression of proteins required for capacitation and fertility is also conserved. Secondly, OVS may explain some of the differences in in vivo and in vitro fertilization for mouse mutants, as seen in mice lacking the gene for FER which is the enzyme required for sperm protein tyrosine phosphorylation. Our observation that murine OVS carry and can modulate sperm protein tyrosine phosphorylation by delivering them to sperm provides an explanation for the in vivo fertility of Fer mutants, not seen in vitro. Finally, our findings have implications for infertility treatment and exosome therapeutics. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTEREST(S) The work was supported by National Institute of Health (RO3HD073523 and 5P20RR015588) grants to P.A.M.-D. There are no conflicts of interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradeepthi Bathala
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Zeinab Fereshteh
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Kun Li
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA.,Department of Reproductive Physiology, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Room 205 B, Building 3, 182 Tian Mu Shan Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China
| | - Amal A Al-Dossary
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA.,Department of Biology, College of Medicine, University of Dammam (UOD), PO Box 2435, Dammam 31451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Deni S Galileo
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716, USA
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Abstract
SummarySpermatogenesis is a dynamic process that culminates in the production of mature spermatozoa in the seminiferous tubules of sexually mature animals. Although sperm leaving the testis are fully differentiated, they must further undergo two additional maturation steps before acquiring the capability to fertilize the egg. Such processes take place during the epididymal residency and transport in the seminal fluid during ejaculation and, after delivery into the female reproductive tract, during the journey aiming the encountering the egg in the oviduct. Throughout this trip, spermatozoa are exposed to different reproductive fluids whose molecular compositions regulate the progress towards obtaining a fertilized competent cell. This review summarizes the evidence obtained so far supporting the participation of male and female reproductive tract-derived proteins in the modulation of sperm fertilizing ability and discusses the mechanisms by which such regulation may be accomplished.
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49
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Gionfra F, De Vito P, Pallottini V, Lin HY, Davis PJ, Pedersen JZ, Incerpi S. The Role of Thyroid Hormones in Hepatocyte Proliferation and Liver Cancer. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:532. [PMID: 31543862 PMCID: PMC6730500 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid hormones T3 and T4 (thyroxine) control a wide variety of effects related to development, differentiation, growth and metabolism, through their interaction with nuclear receptors. But thyroid hormones also produce non-genomic effects that typically start at the plasma membrane and are mediated mainly by integrin αvβ3, although other receptors such as TRα and TRβ are also able to elicit non-genomic responses. In the liver, the effects of thyroid hormones appear to be particularly important. The liver is able to regenerate, but it is subject to pathologies that may lead to cancer, such as fibrosis, cirrhosis, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. In addition, cancer cells undergo a reprogramming of their metabolism, resulting in drastic changes such as aerobic glycolysis instead of oxidative phosphorylation. As a consequence, the pyruvate kinase isoform M2, the rate-limiting enzyme of glycolysis, is dysregulated, and this is considered an important factor in tumorigenesis. Redox equilibrium is also important, in fact cancer cells give rise to the production of more reactive oxygen species (ROS) than normal cells. This increase may favor the survival and propagation of cancer cells. We evaluate the possible mechanisms involving the plasma membrane receptor integrin αvβ3 that may lead to cancer progression. Studying diseases that affect the liver and their experimental models may help to unravel the cellular pathways mediated by integrin αvβ3 that can lead to liver cancer. Inhibitors of integrin αvβ3 might represent a future therapeutic tool against liver cancer. We also include information on the possible role of exosomes in liver cancer, as well as on recent strategies such as organoids and spheroids, which may provide a new tool for research, drug discovery, and personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Gionfra
- Department of Sciences, University Roma Tre, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo De Vito
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Hung-Yun Lin
- Ph.D. Program for Cancer Molecular Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Taipei Cancer Center, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Rensselaer, NY, United States
- Traditional Herbal Medicine Research Center of Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Medicine, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, United States
| | - Paul J. Davis
- Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Rensselaer, NY, United States
- Department of Medicine, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, United States
| | - Jens Z. Pedersen
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Sandra Incerpi
- Department of Sciences, University Roma Tre, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Sandra Incerpi
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50
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Fereshteh Z, Bathala P, Galileo DS, Martin-DeLeon PA. Detection of extracellular vesicles in the mouse vaginal fluid: Their delivery of sperm proteins that stimulate capacitation and modulate fertility. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:12745-12756. [PMID: 30536802 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) were isolated by ultracentrifugation of vaginal luminal fluid (VLF) from superovulated mice and identified for the first time using transmission electron microscopy. Characterized by size and biochemical markers (CD9 and HSC70), EVs were shown to be both microvesicular and exosomal and were dubbed as "Vaginosomes" (VGS). Vaginal cross-sections were analyzed to visualize EVs in situ: EVs were present in the lumen and also embedded between squamous epithelial and keratinized cells, consistent with their endogenous origin. Western blots detected Plasma membrane Ca2+ -ATPase 1 (PMCA1) and tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins in the VGS cargo and also in uterosomes. Flow cytometry revealed that following coincubation of caudal sperm and VLF for 30 min, the frequencies of cells with the highest Sperm adhesion molecule 1 (SPAM1), PMCA1/4, and PMCA1 levels increased 16.4-, 8.2-, and 27-fold, respectively; compared with control coincubated in phosphate buffered saline (PBS). Under identical conditions, sperm tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins were elevated ~3.3-fold, after VLF coincubation. Progesterone-induced acrosome reaction (AR) rates were significantly (p < 0.001) elevated in sperm coincubated with VGS for 10-30 min, compared with PBS. Sperm artificially deposited in the vaginas of superovulated females for these periods also showed significant (p < 0.01) increases in AR rates, compared with PBS. Thus in vitro and in vivo, sperm acquire from the vaginal environment factors that induce capacitation, explaining recent findings for their acrosomal status in the isthmus. Overall, VGS appear to deliver higher levels of proteins involved in preventing premature capacitation and AR than those promoting them. Our findings which have implications for humans open the possibility of new approaches to infertility treatment with exosome therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Fereshteh
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware
| | - Pradeepthi Bathala
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware
| | - Deni S Galileo
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware
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