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Silvestris E, D’Oronzo S, Petracca EA, D’Addario C, Cormio G, Loizzi V, Canosa S, Corrado G. Fertility Preservation in the Era of Immuno-Oncology: Lights and Shadows. J Pers Med 2024; 14:431. [PMID: 38673058 PMCID: PMC11050999 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14040431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, immuno-oncology has revolutionized the cancer treatment field by harnessing the immune system's power to counteract cancer cells. While this innovative approach holds great promise for improving cancer outcomes, it also raises important considerations related to fertility and reproductive toxicity. In fact, most young females receiving gonadotoxic anti-cancer treatments undergo iatrogenic ovarian exhaustion, resulting in a permanent illness that precludes the vocation of motherhood as a natural female sexual identity. Although commonly used, oocyte cryopreservation for future in vitro fertilization and even ovarian cortex transplantation are considered unsafe procedures in cancer patients due to their oncogenic risks; whereas, ovarian stem cells might support neo-oogenesis, providing a novel stemness model of regenerative medicine for future fertility preservation programs in oncology. Recent scientific evidence has postulated that immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) might in some way reduce fertility by inducing either primary or secondary hypogonadism, whose incidence and mechanisms are not yet known. Therefore, considering the lack of data, it is currently not possible to define the most suitable FP procedure for young patients who are candidates for ICIs. In this report, we will investigate the few available data concerning the molecular regulation of ICI therapy and their resulting gonadal toxicity, to hypothesize the most suitable fertility preservation strategy for patients receiving these drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Silvestris
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II” Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (E.A.P.); (G.C.); (V.L.)
| | - Stella D’Oronzo
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy;
- Division of Medical Oncology, A.O.U. Consorziale Policlinico di Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Easter Anna Petracca
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II” Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (E.A.P.); (G.C.); (V.L.)
| | - Claudia D’Addario
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy;
- Division of Medical Oncology, A.O.U. Consorziale Policlinico di Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Gennaro Cormio
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II” Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (E.A.P.); (G.C.); (V.L.)
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | - Vera Loizzi
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II” Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (E.A.P.); (G.C.); (V.L.)
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Stefano Canosa
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Giacomo Corrado
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, Department of Woman, Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00136 Roma, Italy;
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Śliwa A, Szczerba A, Pięta PP, Białas P, Lorek J, Nowak-Markwitz E, Jankowska A. A Recipe for Successful Metastasis: Transition and Migratory Modes of Ovarian Cancer Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:783. [PMID: 38398174 PMCID: PMC10886816 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16040783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
One of the characteristic features of ovarian cancer is its early dissemination. Metastasis and the invasiveness of ovarian cancer are strongly dependent on the phenotypical and molecular determinants of cancer cells. Invasive cancer cells, circulating tumor cells, and cancer stem cells, which are responsible for the metastatic process, may all undergo different modes of transition, giving rise to mesenchymal, amoeboid, and redifferentiated epithelial cells. Such variability is the result of the changing needs of cancer cells, which strive to survive and colonize new organs. This would not be possible if not for the variety of migration modes adopted by the transformed cells. The most common type of metastasis in ovarian cancer is dissemination through the transcoelomic route, but transitions in ovarian cancer cells contribute greatly to hematogenous and lymphatic dissemination. This review aims to outline the transition modes of ovarian cancer cells and discuss the migratory capabilities of those cells in light of the known ovarian cancer metastasis routes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Śliwa
- Chair and Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 5D, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
| | - Anna Szczerba
- Chair and Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 5D, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
| | - Paweł Piotr Pięta
- Chair and Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 5D, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
| | - Piotr Białas
- Chair and Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 5D, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
| | - Jakub Lorek
- Gynecologic Oncology Department, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 33 Polna Street, 60-101 Poznan, Poland
| | - Ewa Nowak-Markwitz
- Gynecologic Oncology Department, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 33 Polna Street, 60-101 Poznan, Poland
| | - Anna Jankowska
- Chair and Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 5D, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
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3
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Xu D, Song S, Wang F, Li Y, Li Z, Yao H, Zhao Y, Zhao Z. Single-cell transcriptomic atlas of goat ovarian aging. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2023; 14:151. [PMID: 38053167 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-023-00948-8] [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: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ovaries are one of the first organs that undergo degenerative changes earlier in the aging process, and ovarian aging is shown by a decrease in the number and quality of oocytes. However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms of female age-related fertility decline in different types of ovarian cells during aging, especially in goats. Therefore, the aim of this study was to reveal the mechanisms driving ovarian aging in goats at single-cell resolution. RESULTS For the first time, we surveyed the single-cell transcriptomic landscape of over 27,000 ovarian cells from newborn, young and aging goats, and identified nine ovarian cell types with distinct gene-expression signatures. Functional enrichment analysis showed that ovarian cell types were involved in their own unique biological processes, such as Wnt beta-catenin signalling was enriched in germ cells, whereas ovarian steroidogenesis was enriched in granulosa cells (GCs). Further analysis showed that ovarian aging was linked to GCs-specific changes in the antioxidant system, oxidative phosphorylation, and apoptosis. Subsequently, we identified a series of dynamic genes, such as AMH, CRABP2, THBS1 and TIMP1, which determined the fate of GCs. Additionally, FOXO1, SOX4, and HIF1A were identified as significant regulons that instructed the differentiation of GCs in a distinct manner during ovarian aging. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed a comprehensive aging-associated transcriptomic atlas characterizing the cell type-specific mechanisms during ovarian aging at the single-cell level and offers new diagnostic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for age-related goat ovarian diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dejun Xu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Shuaifei Song
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Fuguo Wang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Yawen Li
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Ziyuan Li
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Hui Yao
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Yongju Zhao
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Zhongquan Zhao
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science, College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
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Starzyński D, Rzeszotek S, Kolasa A, Grabowska M, Wiszniewska B, Kudrymska A, Karpińska K, Tołoczko-Grabarek A, Janiec A, Myszka A, Rynio P, Syrenicz A, Sowińska-Przepiera E. Pilot Study: FSHR Expression in Neuroendocrine Tumors of the Appendix. J Clin Med 2023; 12:5086. [PMID: 37568488 PMCID: PMC10419379 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12155086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Appendix neuroendocrine neoplasm (ANEN) treatment is based on tumor size and proliferation markers. Recently, the role of the follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) from the clinical perspective has also been increasingly discussed. The FSHR is expressed in the endothelial cells of both intratumoral and peritumoral blood vessels, where it contributes to neoangiogenesis and blood vessel remodeling. FSHR expression is associated with a range of tumor types, such as gastrointestinal tumors, and it is not detected in healthy tissues located more than 10 mm from the tumor site or in tumor lymphatics. In this study, we evaluated the expression of FSHR and CD31 in the blood vessels of ANENs in females and males with confirmed histopathology. We conducted a quantitative analysis of the immunohistochemical reactions and found a higher number of microvessels in the mucosa and submucosa of neuroendocrine tumors in the appendix. A higher level of FSHR expression was observed in women. Future research should consider whether an elevated number of blood vessels along with a strong pattern of FSHR expression may influence future treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dariusz Starzyński
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolic and Internal Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Unii Lubelskiej 1, 70-252 Szczecin, Poland; (D.S.); (A.J.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (E.S.-P.)
| | - Sylwia Rzeszotek
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (A.K.); (B.W.)
| | - Agnieszka Kolasa
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (A.K.); (B.W.)
| | - Marta Grabowska
- Department of Histology and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Pomeranian Medical University, Żołnierska 48, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Barbara Wiszniewska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (A.K.); (B.W.)
| | - Aleksandra Kudrymska
- Department of Pathomorphology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Unii Lubelskiej 1, 70-252 Szczecin, Poland; (A.K.); (K.K.)
| | - Katarzyna Karpińska
- Department of Pathomorphology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Unii Lubelskiej 1, 70-252 Szczecin, Poland; (A.K.); (K.K.)
| | - Aleksandra Tołoczko-Grabarek
- Department of Genetics and Pathomorphology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Agnieszka Janiec
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolic and Internal Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Unii Lubelskiej 1, 70-252 Szczecin, Poland; (D.S.); (A.J.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (E.S.-P.)
| | - Aleksandra Myszka
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolic and Internal Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Unii Lubelskiej 1, 70-252 Szczecin, Poland; (D.S.); (A.J.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (E.S.-P.)
| | - Paweł Rynio
- Department of Vascular Surgery, General Surgery and Angiology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Anhelli Syrenicz
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolic and Internal Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Unii Lubelskiej 1, 70-252 Szczecin, Poland; (D.S.); (A.J.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (E.S.-P.)
| | - Elżbieta Sowińska-Przepiera
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolic and Internal Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Unii Lubelskiej 1, 70-252 Szczecin, Poland; (D.S.); (A.J.); (A.M.); (A.S.); (E.S.-P.)
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Sills ES, Harrity C, Wood SH, Tan SL. mTOR Inhibition via Low-Dose, Pulsed Rapamycin with Intraovarian Condensed Platelet Cytokines: An Individualized Protocol to Recover Diminished Reserve? J Pers Med 2023; 13:1147. [PMID: 37511761 PMCID: PMC10381109 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13071147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
No major breakthroughs have entered mainstream clinical fertility practice since egg donation and intracytoplasmic sperm injection decades ago, and oocyte deficits secondary to advanced age continue as the main manifestation of diminished ovarian reserve. In the meantime, several unproven IVF 'accessories' have emerged including so-called ovarian rejuvenation which entails placing fresh autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) directly into ovarian tissue. Among cellular responses attributed to this intervention are reduced oxidative stress, slowed apoptosis and improved metabolism. Besides having an impact on the existing follicle pool, platelet growth factors might also facilitate de novo oocyte recruitment by specified gene upregulation targeting uncommitted ovarian stem cells. Given that disordered activity at the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) has been shown to exacerbate or accelerate ovarian aging, PRP-discharged plasma cytokines combined with mTOR suppression by pulsed/cyclic rapamycin represents a novel fusion technique to enhance ovarian function. While beneficial effects have already been observed experimentally in oocytes and embryos with mTOR inhibition alone, this proposal is the first to discuss intraovarian platelet cytokines followed by low-dose, phased rapamycin. For refractory cases, this investigational, tailored approach could amplify or sustain ovarian capacity sufficient to permit retrieval of competent oocytes via distinct but complementary pathways-thus reducing dependency on oocyte donation.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Scott Sills
- Plasma Research Section, Regenerative Biology Group/CAG, San Clemente, CA 92673, USA
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Palomar Medical Center, Escondido, CA 92029, USA
| | - Conor Harrity
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, D02 HC66 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Samuel H Wood
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Palomar Medical Center, Escondido, CA 92029, USA
- Gen 5 Fertility Center, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Seang Lin Tan
- OriginElle Fertility Clinic, Montreal, QC H4A 3J3, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
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A Simplified and Effective Approach for the Isolation of Small Pluripotent Stem Cells Derived from Human Peripheral Blood. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11030787. [PMID: 36979766 PMCID: PMC10045871 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11030787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cells are key players in regenerative medicine. Embryonic pluripotent stem cells, despite their significant advantages, are associated with limitations such as their inadequate availability and the ethical dilemmas in their isolation and clinical use. The discovery of very small embryonic-like (VSEL) stem cells addressed the aforementioned limitations, but their isolation technique remains a challenge due to their small cell size and their efficiency in isolation. Here, we report a simplified and effective approach for the isolation of small pluripotent stem cells derived from human peripheral blood. Our approach results in a high yield of small blood stem cell (SBSC) population, which expresses pluripotent embryonic markers (e.g., Nanog, SSEA-3) and the Yamanaka factors. Further, a fraction of SBSCs also co-express hematopoietic markers (e.g., CD45 and CD90) and/or mesenchymal markers (e.g., CD29, CD105 and PTH1R), suggesting a mixed stem cell population. Finally, quantitative proteomic profiling reveals that SBSCs contain various stem cell markers (CD9, ITGA6, MAPK1, MTHFD1, STAT3, HSPB1, HSPA4), and Transcription reg complex factors (e.g., STAT5B, PDLIM1, ANXA2, ATF6, CAMK1). In conclusion, we present a novel, simplified and effective isolating process that yields an abundant population of small-sized cells with characteristics of pluripotency from human peripheral blood.
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Wang X, Liu X, Qu M, Li H. Sertoli cell-only syndrome: advances, challenges, and perspectives in genetics and mechanisms. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:67. [PMID: 36814036 PMCID: PMC11072804 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04723-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Male infertility can be caused by quantitative and/or qualitative abnormalities in spermatogenesis, which affects men's physical and mental health. Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS) is the most severe histological phenotype of male infertility characterized by the depletion of germ cells with only Sertoli cells remaining in the seminiferous tubules. Most SCOS cases cannot be explained by the already known genetic causes including karyotype abnormalities and microdeletions of the Y chromosome. With the development of sequencing technology, studies on screening new genetic causes for SCOS are growing in recent years. Directly sequencing of target genes in sporadic cases and whole-exome sequencing applied in familial cases have identified several genes associated with SCOS. Analyses of the testicular transcriptome, proteome, and epigenetics in SCOS patients provide explanations regarding the molecular mechanisms of SCOS. In this review, we discuss the possible relationship between defective germline development and SCOS based on mouse models with SCO phenotype. We also summarize the advances and challenges in the exploration of genetic causes and mechanisms of SCOS. Knowing the genetic factors of SCOS offers a better understanding of SCO and human spermatogenesis, and it also has practical significance for improving diagnosis, making appropriate medical decisions, and genetic counseling. For therapeutic implications, SCOS research, along with the achievements in stem cell technologies and gene therapy, build the foundation to develop novel therapies for SCOS patients to produce functional spermatozoa, giving them hope to father children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotong Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430000, China
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Xinyu Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430000, China
| | - Mengyuan Qu
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430000, China
| | - Honggang Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430000, China.
- Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, 430000, China.
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8
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Varier L, Sundaram SM, Gamit N, Warrier S. An Overview of Ovarian Cancer: The Role of Cancer Stem Cells in Chemoresistance and a Precision Medicine Approach Targeting the Wnt Pathway with the Antagonist sFRP4. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15041275. [PMID: 36831617 PMCID: PMC9954718 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15041275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is one of the most prevalent gynecological cancers, having a relatively high fatality rate with a low five-year chance of survival when detected in late stages. The early detection, treatment and prevention of metastasis is pertinent and a pressing research priority as many patients are diagnosed only in stage three of ovarian cancer. Despite surgical interventions, targeted immunotherapy and adjuvant chemotherapy, relapses are significantly higher than other cancers, suggesting the dire need to identify the root cause of metastasis and relapse and present more precise therapeutic options. In this review, we first describe types of ovarian cancers, the existing markers and treatment modalities. As ovarian cancer is driven and sustained by an elusive and highly chemoresistant population of cancer stem cells (CSCs), their role and the associated signature markers are exhaustively discussed. Non-invasive diagnostic markers, which can be identified early in the disease using circulating tumor cells (CTCs), are also described. The mechanism of the self-renewal, chemoresistance and metastasis of ovarian CSCs is regulated by the Wnt signaling pathway. Thus, its role in ovarian cancer in promoting stemness and metastasis is delineated. Based on our findings, we propose a novel strategy of Wnt inhibition using a well-known Wnt antagonist, secreted frizzled related protein 4 (sFRP4), wherein short micropeptides derived from the whole protein can be used as powerful inhibitors. The latest approaches to early diagnosis and novel treatment strategies emphasized in this review will help design precision medicine approaches for an effective capture and destruction of highly aggressive ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lavanya Varier
- Cuor Stem Cellutions Pvt Ltd., Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore 560 065, India
| | - S. Mohana Sundaram
- Division of Cancer Stem Cells and Cardiovascular Regeneration, Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore 560 065, India
| | - Naisarg Gamit
- Division of Cancer Stem Cells and Cardiovascular Regeneration, Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore 560 065, India
| | - Sudha Warrier
- Cuor Stem Cellutions Pvt Ltd., Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore 560 065, India
- Division of Cancer Stem Cells and Cardiovascular Regeneration, Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore 560 065, India
- Correspondence:
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Autologous Human Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Based Therapy in Infertility: New Strategies and Future Perspectives. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12010108. [PMID: 36671799 PMCID: PMC9855776 DOI: 10.3390/biology12010108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Infertility could be associated with a few factors including problems with physical and mental health, hormonal imbalances, lifestyles, and genetic factors. Given that there is a concern about the rise of infertility globally, increased focus has been given to its treatment for the last several decades. Traditional assisted reproductive technology (ART) has been the prime option for many years in solving various cases of infertility; however, it contains significant risks and does not solve the fundamental problem of infertility such as genetic disorders. Attention toward the utilization of MSCs has been widely regarded as a promising option in the development of stem-cell-based infertility treatments. This narrative review briefly presents the challenges in the current ART treatment of infertility and the various potential applications of autologous MSCs in the treatment of these reproductive diseases.
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10
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Dadashzadeh A, Moghassemi S, Grubliauskaité M, Vlieghe H, Brusa D, Amorim CA. Medium supplementation can influence the human ovarian cells in vitro. J Ovarian Res 2022; 15:137. [PMID: 36572931 PMCID: PMC9791781 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-022-01081-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cells are an essential part of the triple principles of tissue engineering and a crucial component of the engineered ovary as they can induce angiogenesis, synthesize extracellular matrix and influence follicle development. Here, we hypothesize that by changing the medium supplementation, we can obtain different cell populations isolated from the human ovary to use in the engineered ovary. To this end, we have in vitro cultured cells isolated from the menopausal ovarian cortex using different additives: KnockOut serum replacement (KO), fetal bovine serum (FBS), human serum albumin (HSA), and platelet lysate (PL). RESULTS Our results showed that most cells soon after isolation (pre-culture, control) and cells in KO and FBS groups were CD31- CD34- (D0: vs. CD31-CD34+, CD31 + CD34+, and CD31 + CD34- p < 0.0001; KO: vs. CD31-CD34+, CD31 + CD34+, and CD31 + CD34- p < 0.0001; FBS: vs. CD31-CD34+ and CD31 + CD34+ p < 0.001, and vs. CD31 + CD34- p < 0.01). Moreover, a deeper analysis of the CD31-CD34- population demonstrated a significant augmentation (more than 86%) of the CD73+ and CD90+ cells (possibly fibroblasts, mesenchymal stem cells, or pericytes) in KO- and FBS-based media compared to the control (around 16%; p < 0.001). Still, in the CD31-CD34- population, we found a higher proportion (60%) of CD90+ and PDPN+ cells (fibroblast-like cells) compared to the control (around 7%; vs PL and KO p < 0.01 and vs FBS p < 0.001). Additionally, around 70% of cells in KO- and FBS-based media were positive for CD105 and CD146, which may indicate an increase in the number of pericytes in these media compared to a low percentage (4%) in the control group (vs KO and FBS p < 0.001). On the other hand, we remarked a significant decrease of CD31- CD34+ cells after in vitro culture using all different medium additives (HSA vs D0 p < 0.001, PL, KO, and FBS vs D0 P < 0.01). We also observed a significant increase in epithelial cells (CD326+) when the medium was supplemented with KO (vs D0 p < 0.05). Interestingly, HSA and PL showed more lymphatic endothelial cells compared to other groups (CD31 + CD34+: HSA and PL vs KO and FBS p < 0.05; CD31 + CD34 + CD90 + PDPN+: HSA and PL vs D0 p < 0.01). CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate that medium additives can influence the cell populations, which serve as building blocks for the engineered tissue. Therefore, according to the final application, different media can be used in vitro to favor different cell types, which will be incorporated into a functional matrix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arezoo Dadashzadeh
- grid.7942.80000 0001 2294 713XPôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 55, bte B1.55.03, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Saeid Moghassemi
- grid.7942.80000 0001 2294 713XPôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 55, bte B1.55.03, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Monika Grubliauskaité
- grid.459837.40000 0000 9826 8822Department of Biobank, National Cancer Institute, 08660 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Hanne Vlieghe
- grid.7942.80000 0001 2294 713XPôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 55, bte B1.55.03, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Davide Brusa
- grid.7942.80000 0001 2294 713XCytoFlux-Flow Cytometry and Cell Sorting Platform, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christiani A. Amorim
- grid.7942.80000 0001 2294 713XPôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 55, bte B1.55.03, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
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11
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Szczerba A, Śliwa A, Pieta PP, Jankowska A. The Role of Circulating Tumor Cells in Ovarian Cancer Dissemination. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14246030. [PMID: 36551515 PMCID: PMC9775737 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14246030] [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: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastatic ovarian cancer is the main reason for treatment failures and consequent deaths. Ovarian cancer is predisposed to intraperitoneal dissemination. In comparison to the transcoelomic route, distant metastasis via lymph vessels and blood is less common. The mechanisms related to these two modes of cancer spread are poorly understood. Nevertheless, the presence of tumor cells circulating in the blood of OC patients is a well-established phenomenon confirming the significant role of lymphatic and hematogenous metastasis. Thus, the detection of CTCs may provide a minimally invasive tool for the identification of ovarian cancer, monitoring disease progression, and treatment effectiveness. This review focuses on the biology of ovarian CTCs and the role they may play in cancer diagnosis and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Szczerba
- Chair and Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 5D, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Śliwa
- Chair and Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 5D, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
| | - Pawel P. Pieta
- Department of Bionic and Experimental Medical Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
| | - Anna Jankowska
- Chair and Department of Cell Biology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 5D, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-618-547-190
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12
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Isolation of Female Germline Stem Cells from Mouse and Human Ovaries by Differential Adhesion. Int J Cell Biol 2022; 2022:5224659. [PMID: 36120418 PMCID: PMC9473869 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5224659] [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: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) counterparts known as female germline stem cells (fGSCs) were found in the mammalian ovary in 2004. Although the existence of fGSCs in the mammalian postnatal ovary is still under controversy, fGSC discovery encourages investigators to better understand the various aspects of these cells. However, their existence is not accepted by all scientists in the field because isolation of fGSCs by fluorescent activated cell sorting (FACS) has not been reproducible. In this study, we used differential adhesion to isolate and enrich fGSCs from mouse and human ovaries and subsequently cultured them in vitro. fGSCs were able to proliferate in vitro and expressed germ cell-specific markers Vasa, Dazl, Blimp1, Fragilis, Stella, and Oct4, at the protein level. Moreover, mouse and human fGSCs were, respectively, cultured for more than four months and one month in culture. Both mouse and human fGSCs maintained the expression of germ cell-specific markers over these times. In vitro cultured fGSCs spontaneously produced oocyte-like cells (OLCs) which expressed oocyte-relevant markers. Our results demonstrated that differential adhesion allows reproducible isolation of fGSCs that are able to proliferate in vitro over time. This source of fGSCs can serve as a suitable material for studying mechanisms underlying female germ cell development and function.
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13
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Sharma D, Bhartiya D. Dysfunctional Ovarian Stem Cells Due to Neonatal Endocrine Disruption Result in PCOS and Ovarian Insufficiency in Adult Mice. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2022; 18:2912-2927. [PMID: 35834052 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-022-10414-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common global cause of anovulatory infertility but underlying etiology leading to PCOS still remains elusive. Fetal and perinatal endocrine disruption reportedly affects germ cell nests (GCN) breakdown, meiosis, and primordial follicle (PF) assembly with unassembled oocytes in neonatal ovaries. We recently reported that very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) and ovarian stem cells (OSCs) express ERα, ERβ and FSHR, undergo distinct cyclic changes and neo-oogenesis encompassing GCN formation, meiosis, and primordial follicle (PF) assembly on regular basis in adult mice ovaries and these GCN are arrested in pre-meiotic or early meiotic stage in aged ovaries. Present study was undertaken to evaluate whether neonatal exposure to endocrine disruption (estradiol E2 or diethylstilbestrol DES) affects ovarian stem cells and their differentiation (neo-oogenesis) and PF assembly in adult 100 days old ovaries. Neonatal exposure to E2 resulted in typical features of PCOS including hyperandrogenism, infertility, increased stromal compartment, absent corpus lutea, and cystic follicles whereas DES treated ovaries showed rapid recruitment of follicles in young ovaries and multi-ovular/cystic follicles. Ovary surface epithelial cells smears showed large numbers of growth-arrested GCN in zygotene/pachytene with increased expression of Mlh-1 and Scp-1 suggesting defects at synapsis and recombination stages during prophase-1 of meiosis. Being immortal and expression of ERα and ERβ makes VSELs directly vulnerable to carry developmental endocrine insults to adult life. Dysfunction of VSELs/OSCs possibly results in oocyte defects observed in our study in PCOS/POI besides the widely reported defects in granulosa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diksha Sharma
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR- National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, 400 012, Mumbai, India
| | - Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR- National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, 400 012, Mumbai, India.
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14
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Hong W, Wang B, Zhu Y, Wu J, Qiu L, Ling S, Zhou Z, Dai Y, Zhong Z, Zheng Y. Female germline stem cells: aging and anti-aging. J Ovarian Res 2022; 15:79. [PMID: 35787298 PMCID: PMC9251950 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-022-01011-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The delay of ovarian aging and the fertility preservation of cancer patients are the eternal themes in the field of reproductive medicine. Acting as the pacemaker of female physiological aging, ovary is also considered as the principle player of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, cerebrovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases and etc. However, its aging mechanism and preventive measures are still unclear. Some researchers attempt to activate endogenous ovarian female germline stem cells (FGSCs) to restore ovarian function, as the most promising approach. FGSCs are stem cells in the adult ovaries that can be infinitely self-renewing and have the potential of committed differention. This review aims to elucidate FGSCs aging mechanism from multiple perspectives such as niches, immune disorder, chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. Therefore, the rebuilding nichs of FGSCs, regulation of immune dysfunction, anti-inflammation and oxidative stress remission are expected to restore or replenish FGSCs, ultimately to delay ovarian aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenli Hong
- Reproductive Health Department, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, the Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China.,Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China
| | - Baofeng Wang
- ARTcenter, Shenzhen Hengsheng Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yasha Zhu
- Reproductive Health Department, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, the Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun'e Wu
- Reproductive Health Department, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, the Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Qiu
- Reproductive Health Department, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, the Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuyi Ling
- Reproductive Health Department, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, the Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziqiong Zhou
- Reproductive Health Department, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, the Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuqing Dai
- Reproductive Health Department, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, the Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhisheng Zhong
- Reproductive Health Department, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, the Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yuehui Zheng
- Reproductive Health Department, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, the Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518000, People's Republic of China.
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15
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Tocci A. Reply: In response to: why double ovarian stimulation in an in vitro fertilization cycle is potentially unsafe? Hum Reprod 2022; 37:1947-1949. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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16
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Oktem O. In response to: why double ovarian stimulation in an in vitro fertilization cycle is potentially unsafe? Hum Reprod 2022; 37:1945-1947. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ozgur Oktem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Assisted Reproduction Unit, Koç University School of Medicine , Istanbul, Turkey
- The Graduate School of Health Sciences, Koç University , Istanbul, Turkey
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koç University , Istanbul, Turkey
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17
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Silvestris E, Minoia C, Guarini A, Opinto G, Negri A, Dellino M, Tinelli R, Cormio G, Paradiso AV, De Palma G. Ovarian Stem Cells (OSCs) from the Cryopreserved Ovarian Cortex: A Potential for Neo-Oogenesis in Women with Cancer-Treatment Related Infertility: A Case Report and a Review of Literature. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2022; 44:2309-2320. [PMID: 35678686 PMCID: PMC9164018 DOI: 10.3390/cimb44050157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer treatment related infertility (CTRI) affects more than one third of young women undergoing anti-cancer protocols, inducing a premature exhaustion of the ovarian reserve. In addition to ovarian suppression by GnRHa, oocyte and cortex cryopreservation has gained interest in patients with estrogen-sensitive tumors for whom the hormonal burst to prompt the multiple follicular growth could provide a further pro-life tumor pulsing. On the other hand, cortex reimplantation implies a few drawbacks due to the unknown consistency of the follicles to be reimplanted or the risk of reintroducing malignant cells. The capability of ovarian stem cells (OCSs) from fresh ovarian cortex fragments to differentiate in vitro to mature oocytes provides a tool to overcome these drawbacks. In fact, since ovarian cortex sampling and cryopreservation is practicable before gonadotoxic treatments, the recruitment of OSCs from defrosted fragments could provide a novel opportunity to verify their suitability to be expanded in vitro as oocyte like cells (OLCs). Here, we describe in very preliminary experiments the consistency of an OSC population from a single cryopreserved ovarian cortex after thawing as well as both their viability and their suitability to be further explored in their property to differentiate in OLCs, thus reinforcing interest in stemness studies in the treatment of female CTRI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Silvestris
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Carla Minoia
- Haematology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (C.M.); (A.G.); (G.O.); (A.N.)
| | - Attilio Guarini
- Haematology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (C.M.); (A.G.); (G.O.); (A.N.)
| | - Giuseppina Opinto
- Haematology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (C.M.); (A.G.); (G.O.); (A.N.)
| | - Antonio Negri
- Haematology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (C.M.); (A.G.); (G.O.); (A.N.)
| | - Miriam Dellino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “San Paolo” Hospital, 70123 Bari, Italy;
| | - Raffaele Tinelli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Valle d’Itria” Hospital, 74015 Martina Franca, Italy;
| | - Gennaro Cormio
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy;
| | - Angelo Virgilio Paradiso
- Institutional BioBank, Experimental Oncology and Biobank Management Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.V.P.); (G.D.P.)
| | - Giuseppe De Palma
- Institutional BioBank, Experimental Oncology and Biobank Management Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (A.V.P.); (G.D.P.)
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18
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Eijkenboom L, Saedt E, Zietse C, Braat D, Beerendonk C, Peek R. Strategies to safely use cryopreserved ovarian tissue to restore fertility after cancer: A systematic review. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:763-778. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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19
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Tocci A. Reply to: Neither rationale nor scientific evidence exist to support that double stimulation is potentially unsafe. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:1951-1952. [PMID: 35394502 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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20
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Artificial Oocyte: Development and Potential Application. Cells 2022; 11:cells11071135. [PMID: 35406698 PMCID: PMC8998074 DOI: 10.3390/cells11071135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Millions of people around the world suffer from infertility, with the number of infertile couples and individuals increasing every year. Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) have been widely developed in recent years; however, some patients are unable to benefit from these technologies due to their lack of functional germ cells. Therefore, the development of alternative methods seems necessary. One of these methods is to create artificial oocytes. Oocytes can be generated in vitro from the ovary, fetal gonad, germline stem cells (GSCs), ovarian stem cells, or pluripotent stem cells (PSCs). This approach has raised new hopes in both basic research and medical applications. In this article, we looked at the principle of oocyte development, the landmark studies that enhanced our understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms that govern oogenesis in vivo, as well as the mechanisms underlying in vitro generation of functional oocytes from different sources of mouse and human stem cells. In addition, we introduced next-generation ART using somatic cells with artificial oocytes. Finally, we provided an overview of the reproductive application of in vitro oogenesis and its use in human fertility.
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21
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Singh P, Metkari S, Bhartiya D. Additional evidence to support OCT-4 positive VSELs and EnSCs as the elusive tissue-resident stem/progenitor cells in adult mice uterus. Stem Cell Res Ther 2022; 13:60. [PMID: 35123545 PMCID: PMC8818151 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-02703-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective True identity and specific set of markers to enrich endometrial stem cells still remains elusive. Present study was undertaken to further substantiate that very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) are the true and elusive stem cells in adult mice endometrium. Methods This was achieved by undertaking three sets of experiments. Firstly, SSEA-1+ and Oct-4 + positive VSELs, sorted from GFP mice, were transplanted into the uterine horns of wild-type Swiss mice and GFP uptake was studied within the same estrus cycle. Secondly, uterine lumen was scratched surgically and OCT-4 expressing stem/progenitor cells were studied at the site of injury after 24–72 h. Thirdly, OCT-4 expression was studied in the endometrium and myometrium of adult mice after neonatal exposure to estradiol (20 µg/pup/day on days 5–7 after birth). Results GFP + ve VSELs expressing SSEA-1 and Oct-4 engrafted and differentiated into the epithelial cells lining the lumen as well as the glands during the estrus stage when maximum remodeling occurs. Mechanical scratching activated tissue-resident, nuclear OCT-4 positive VSELs and slightly bigger ‘progenitors’ endometrial stem cells (EnSCs, cytoplasmic OCT-4) which underwent clonal expansion and further differentiated into luminal and glandular epithelial cells. Neonatal exposure to endocrine disruption resulted in increased numbers of OCT-4 positive VSELs/EnSCs in adult endometrium. Discussion Results support the presence of functionally active VSELs in adult endometrium. VSELs self-renew and give rise to EnSCs that further differentiate into epithelial cells under normal physiological conditions. Also, VSELs are vulnerable to endocrine insults. To conclude VSELs are true and elusive uterine stem cells that maintain life-long uterine homeostasis and their dysregulation may result in various pathologies. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-022-02703-8.
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22
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Dong MH, Kim YY, Ku SY. Identification of Stem Cell-Like Cells in the Ovary. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2022; 19:675-685. [PMID: 35119648 PMCID: PMC9294092 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-021-00424-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the function of stem cells and cellular microenvironments in in vitro oogenesis, including ovarian folliculogenesis, is crucial for reproductive biology. Because mammalian females cannot generate oocytes after birth, the number of oocyte decreases with the progression of reproductive age. Meanwhile, there is an emerging need for the neogenesis of female germ cells to treat the increasing infertility-related issues in cancer survivors. The concept of oocytes neogenesis came from the promising results of stem cells in reproductive medicine. The stem cells that generate oocytes are defined as stem cell-like cells in the ovary (OSCs). Several recent studies have focused on the origin, isolation, and characteristic of OSCs and the differentiation of OSCs into oocytes, ovarian follicles and granulosa cells. Hence, in this review, we focus on the experimental trends in OSC research and discuss the methods of OSC isolation. We further summarized the characteristics of OSCs and discuss the markers used to identify OSCs differentiated from various cell sources. We believe that this review will be beneficial for advancing the research and clinical applications of OSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myung Hoon Dong
- grid.31501.360000 0004 0470 5905Department of Premedicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 103 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080 Korea
| | - Yoon Young Kim
- grid.412484.f0000 0001 0302 820XDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Korea ,grid.31501.360000 0004 0470 5905Institute of Reproductive Medicine and Population, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University, 71 Ihwajang-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080 Korea
| | - Seung-Yup Ku
- grid.412484.f0000 0001 0302 820XDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Korea ,grid.31501.360000 0004 0470 5905Institute of Reproductive Medicine and Population, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University, 71 Ihwajang-gil, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080 Korea
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23
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Wu M, Lu Z, Zhu Q, Ma L, Xue L, Li Y, Zhou S, Yan W, Ye W, Zhang J, Luo A, Wang S. DDX4 + stem cells in the ovaries of postmenopausal women: existence and differentiation potential. Stem Cells 2022; 40:88-101. [PMID: 35511860 DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxab002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Ovarian aging is a pacemaker with multiple organ dysfunction. Recently, stem cells with the ability to generate new oocytes have been identified, which provides the possibility of stem cell therapy for ovarian aging. Several studies have revealed the existence of stem cells in human postmenopausal ovary. In this study, we describe a new method using magnetic activated cell sorting combined with differential adhesion to isolate DDX4 + stem cells from ovaries of postmenopausal women and show that the cells exhibit similar gene expression profiles and growth characteristics with primitive germ cells. Furthermore, the DDX4 + stem cells could enter meiosis stage and differentiation into oocytes. The RNA-seq data of the differentiated oocytes shows that mitochondrial metabolism may play an important role in the oogenesis process of the DDX4 + stem cells. Through using human ovarian cortical fragments transplantation model, we indicated that the GFP-DDX4 + stem cells differentiated into some GFP positive oocyte-like structure in vivo. Our study provided a new method for the isolation of DDX4 + stem cells from the ovaries of postmenopausal women and confirmed the ability of these stem cells to differentiate into oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhiyong Lu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, TaiHe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Qingqing Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Lingwei Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Liru Xue
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Su Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Wei Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Wenlei Ye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jinjin Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Aiyue Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shixuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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Haldar S, Agrawal H, Saha S, Straughn AR, Roy P, Kakar SS. Overview of follicle stimulating hormone and its receptors in reproduction and in stem cells and cancer stem cells. Int J Biol Sci 2022; 18:675-692. [PMID: 35002517 PMCID: PMC8741861 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.63721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and its receptor (FSHR) have been reported to be responsible for several physiological functions and cancers. The responsiveness of stem cells and cancer stem cells towards the FSH-FSHR system make the function of FSH and its receptors more interesting in the context of cancer biology. This review is comprised of comprehensive information on FSH-FSHR signaling in normal physiology, gonadal stem cells, cancer cells, and potential options of utilizing FSH-FSHR system as an anti-cancer therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Haldar
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Uttarakhand 247667, India.,Current address: Drug Discovery and Development Division, Patanjali Research Institute, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249405
| | - Himanshu Agrawal
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Uttarakhand 247667, India
| | - Sarama Saha
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences Rishikesh, Uttarakhand 249203, India
| | - Alex R Straughn
- Department of Physiology, James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Partha Roy
- Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Uttarakhand 247667, India
| | - Sham S Kakar
- Department of Physiology, James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
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Tanbakooei S, Haramshahi SMA, Vahabzadeh G, Barati M, Katebi M, Golab F, Shetabi Q, Niknam N, Roudbari L, Rajabi Fomeshi M, Amini Moghadam S. Ovarian Stem Cells Differentiation into Primary Oocytes Using Follicle Stimulating Hormone, Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor, and Neurotrophin 3. J Reprod Infertil 2022; 22:241-250. [PMID: 34987985 PMCID: PMC8669404 DOI: 10.18502/jri.v22i4.7649] [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: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In vitro obtaining oocytes can be an appropriate alternative for patients with gonadal insufficiency or cancer survivors. The purpose of the current research was isolating stem cells from ovarian cortical tissue as well as evaluating the effectiveness of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and neurotrophin 3 (NT3) in differentiating to oocyte-like cells. Methods: A human ovary was dissected and cortical tissue pieces were cultured for cell isolation. Isolated cells were divided into 8 groups (3 cases in each group) of control, FSH, NT3, bFGF, FSH+NT3, FSH+bFGF, NT3+bFGF, and FSH+NT3+ bFGF. Pluripotency specific gene (OCT4-A and Nanog), initial germ cells (c-KIT and VASA) and PF growth initiators (GDF-9 and Lhx-8) were evaluated by qRTPCR. Experiments were performed in triplicate and there were 3 samples in each group. The results were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Flow cytometry results showed that cells isolated from the ovarian cortex expressed markers of pluripotency. The results showed that the expression of Nanog, OCT4, GDF-9 and VASA was significantly increased in FSH+NT3 group, while treatment with bFGF caused significant expression of c-KIT and Lhx-8 (p<0.05). Also, according to the results, isolated cells treated with NT3 significantly increased c-KIT expression. Conclusion: According to our results, the ovarian cortex cells could be differentiated into primordial follicles if treated with the proper combination of FSH, bFGF, and NT3. These findings provided a new perspective for the future of in vitro gamete proudest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Tanbakooei
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Amin Haramshahi
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gelareh Vahabzadeh
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmood Barati
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Katebi
- Department of Anatomy, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Golab
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Qazal Shetabi
- Department of Biology, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Narges Niknam
- Department of Biology, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Roudbari
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Motahareh Rajabi Fomeshi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soheila Amini Moghadam
- Department of Gynecology, Firoozgar Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Yousefi S, Akbarzadeh M, Soleimanirad J, Hamdi K, Farzadi L, Ghasemzadeh A, Mahdipour M, Rahbarghazi R, Nouri M. Combination of Estradiol with Leukemia Inhibitory Factor Stimulates Granulosa Cells Differentiation into Oocyte-Like Cells. Adv Pharm Bull 2021; 11:712-718. [PMID: 34888218 PMCID: PMC8642804 DOI: 10.34172/apb.2021.080] [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: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Previous studies have documented that cumulus granulosa cells (GCs) can trans-differentiation into different non-ovarian cells, showing their multipotentiality to repopulate the injured cells in ovarian tissue. The current experiment is aimed to assess the differentiation capacity of human cumulus GCs toward the oocyte-like phenotype in vitro. Methods: GCs were isolated from healthy female volunteers subjected to in vitro fertilization or intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF-ICSI). The effect of different media supplemented with leukemia inhibitory factors (LIFs), 5 ng/mL estradiol, and 0.005 IU/mL follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) were investigated to the differentiation of GCs toward oocyte-like phenotype via monitoring the expression of Oct3/4 and GATA-4 using flow cytometry analysis. The expression of genes such as FIGLA, NOBOX, and SYCP3 was measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. We also assess morphological adaptation by using bright-field microscopic imaging. Results: Exposure of GCs to LIFs increased the number of cells expressing stemness factor Oct3/4 coincided with the suppression of GATA-4 after 7 days (P < 0.05). We found that the transcript level of all genes FIGLA, Nobox, and SYCP-3 decreased in cells after treatment with a FSH (P < 0.05). According to our data, the incubation of GCs with estradiol increased the expression of genes related to the oocyte-like phenotype. Conclusion: Our finding revealed that the combination of LIFs and estradiol could induce the GCs’ oogenesis capacity and thereby is possibly suggested as a therapeutic strategy during the occurrence of gynecological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soudabe Yousefi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Maryam Akbarzadeh
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jafar Soleimanirad
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Kobra Hamdi
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Laya Farzadi
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Aalie Ghasemzadeh
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahdi Mahdipour
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Rahbarghazi
- Stem Cell 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
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- Stem Cell 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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Bhartiya D, Patel H, Kaushik A, Singh P, Sharma D. Endogenous, tissue-resident stem/progenitor cells in gonads and bone marrow express FSHR and respond to FSH via FSHR-3. J Ovarian Res 2021; 14:145. [PMID: 34717703 PMCID: PMC8556987 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-021-00883-0] [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: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is secreted by the anterior pituitary and acts on the germ cells indirectly through Granulosa cells in ovaries and Sertoli cells in the testes. Extragonadal action of FSH has been reported but is still debated. Adult tissues harbor two populations of stem cells including a reserve population of primitive, small-sized, pluripotent very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) and slightly bigger, tissue-specific progenitors which include ovarian stem cells (OSCs) in ovaries, spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) in testes, endometrial stem cells (EnSCs) in uterus and hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) in the bone marrow. Data has accumulated in animal models showing FSHR expression on both VSELs and progenitors in ovaries, testes, uterus and bone marrow and eventually gets lost as the cells differentiate further. FSH exerts a direct action on the stem/progenitor cells via alternatively spliced FSHR-3 rather than the canonical FSHR-1. FSH stimulates VSELs to undergo asymmetrical cell divisions to self-renew and give rise to the progenitors that in turn undergo symmetrical cell divisions and clonal expansions followed by differentiation into specific cell types. Excessive self-renewal of VSELs results in cancer and this explains ubiquitous expression of embryonic markers including nuclear OCT-4 along with FSHR in cancerous tissues. Focus of this review is to compile published data to support this concept. FSHR expression in stem/progenitor cells was confirmed by immuno-fluorescence, Western blotting, in situ hybridization and by quantitative RT-PCR. Two different commercially available antibodies (Abcam, Santacruz) were used to confirm specificity of FSHR expression along with omission of primary antibody and pre-incubation of antibody with immunizing peptide as negative controls. Western blotting allowed detection of alternatively spliced FSHR isoforms. Oligoprobes and primers specific for Fshr-1 and Fshr-3 were used to study these alternately-sliced isoforms by in situ hybridization and their differential expression upon FSH treatment by qRT-PCR. To conclude, stem/progenitor cells in adult tissues express FSHR and directly respond to FSH via FSHR-3. These findings change the field of FSH-FSHR biology, call for paradigm shift, explain FSHR expression on cancer cells in multiple organs and provide straightforward explanations for various existing conundrums including extragonadal expression of FSHR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR- National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India.
| | - Hiren Patel
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR- National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India
- Present address: Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Ankita Kaushik
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR- National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India
| | - Pushpa Singh
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR- National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India
| | - Diksha Sharma
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR- National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India
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Ebrahim N, Al Saihati HA, Shaman A, Dessouky AA, Farid AS, Hussien NI, Mostafa O, Seleem Y, Sabry D, Saad AS, Emam HT, Hassouna A, Badr OAM, Saffaf BA, Forsyth NR, Salim RF. Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells combined with gonadotropin therapy restore postnatal oogenesis of chemo-ablated ovaries in rats via enhancing very small embryonic-like stem cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:517. [PMID: 34579781 PMCID: PMC8477571 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02415-5] [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: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) are a rare population within the ovarian epithelial surface. They contribute to postnatal oogenesis as they have the ability to generate immature oocytes and resist the chemotherapy. These cells express markers of pluripotent embryonic and primordial germ cells. OBJECTIVE We aimed to explore the capability of VSELs in restoring the postnatal oogenesis of chemo-ablated rat ovaries treated with bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) combined with pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG). METHODS Female albino rats were randomly assigned across five groups: I (control), II (chemo-ablation), III (chemo-ablation + PMSG), IV (chemo-ablation + MSCs), and V (chemo-ablation + PMSG + MSCs). Postnatal oogenesis was assessed through measurement of OCT4, OCT4A, Scp3, Mvh, Nobox, Dazl4, Nanog, Sca-1, FSHr, STRA8, Bax, miR143, and miR376a transcript levels using qRT-PCR. Expression of selected key proteins were established as further confirmation of transcript expression changes. Histopathological examination and ovarian hormonal assessment were determined. RESULTS Group V displayed significant upregulation of all measured genes when compared with group II, III or IV. Protein expression confirmed the changes in transcript levels as group V displayed the highest average density in all targeted proteins. These results were confirmed histologically by the presence of cuboidal germinal epithelium, numerous primordial, unilaminar, and mature Graafian follicles in group V. CONCLUSION VSELs can restore the postnatal oogenesis in chemo-ablated ovaries treated by BM-MSCs combined with PMSG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nesrine Ebrahim
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
- Stem Cell Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Hajir A Al Saihati
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Hafr Albatin, Al-Batin, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amani Shaman
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Medical College, Tabuk University, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arigue A Dessouky
- Department of Medical Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Ayman Samir Farid
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Noha I Hussien
- Department of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Ola Mostafa
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Yasmin Seleem
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Dina Sabry
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Badr University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed S Saad
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Hanan Tawfeek Emam
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Amira Hassouna
- School of Interprofessional Health Studies, Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, AUT University, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Omnia A M Badr
- Department of Genetics and Genetic Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Bayan A Saffaf
- Department of pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Future University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nicholas R Forsyth
- Guy Hilton Research Laboratories, School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Keele University, Keele, UK
| | - Rabab F Salim
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Qalyubia, 13512, Egypt.
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29
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Recchia K, Jorge AS, Pessôa LVDF, Botigelli RC, Zugaib VC, de Souza AF, Martins DDS, Ambrósio CE, Bressan FF, Pieri NCG. Actions and Roles of FSH in Germinative Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10110. [PMID: 34576272 PMCID: PMC8470522 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221810110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is produced by the pituitary gland in a coordinated hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis event, plays important roles in reproduction and germ cell development during different phases of reproductive development (fetal, neonatal, puberty, and adult life), and is consequently essential for fertility. FSH is a heterodimeric glycoprotein hormone of two dissociable subunits, α and β. The FSH β-subunit (FSHβ) function starts upon coupling to its specific receptor: follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR). FSHRs are localized mainly on the surface of target cells on the testis and ovary (granulosa and Sertoli cells) and have recently been found in testicular stem cells and extra-gonadal tissue. Several reproduction disorders are associated with absent or low FSH secretion, with mutation of the FSH β-subunit or the FSH receptor, and/or its signaling pathways. However, the influence of FSH on germ cells is still poorly understood; some studies have suggested that this hormone also plays a determinant role in the self-renewal of germinative cells and acts to increase undifferentiated spermatogonia proliferation. In addition, in vitro, together with other factors, it assists the process of differentiation of primordial germ cells (PGCLCs) into gametes (oocyte-like and SSCLCs). In this review, we describe relevant research on the influence of FSH on spermatogenesis and folliculogenesis, mainly in the germ cell of humans and other species. The possible roles of FSH in germ cell generation in vitro are also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiana Recchia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 01001-010, Brazil; (K.R.); (F.F.B.)
| | - Amanda Soares Jorge
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
| | - Laís Vicari de Figueiredo Pessôa
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
| | - Ramon Cesar Botigelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu 18618-970, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Cristiane Zugaib
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
| | - Aline Fernanda de Souza
- Department Biomedical Science, Ontary Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
| | - Daniele dos Santos Martins
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
| | - Carlos Eduardo Ambrósio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
| | - Fabiana Fernandes Bressan
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 01001-010, Brazil; (K.R.); (F.F.B.)
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
| | - Naira Caroline Godoy Pieri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga 13635-900, Brazil; (A.S.J.); (L.V.d.F.P.); (R.C.B.); (V.C.Z.); (D.d.S.M.); (C.E.A.)
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Tocci A. The safety of VASA pos presumptive adult ovarian stem cells. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 43:587-597. [PMID: 34474974 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Isolation and characterization of presumptive human adult ovarian stem cells (OSC) has broken the long standing dogma of the absence of postnatal neo-oogenesis. Human adult OSC have been immunosorted by antibodies reacting against the RNA helicase VASA and have been reported to engraft into appropriate stem cell niches to promote neo-oogenesis. Analysis of published research, however, questions some of the findings on isolation, characterization, in-vitro self-renewal and clinical safety of the presumptive human adult OSC. In the present study, human VASApos embryo-fetal primordial germ cells and presumptive adult OSC are shown to share several pluripotency and early germ cell markers not ascertained in the initial characterization of adult OSC. A new hypothesis is made that the restoration of fertility claimed to result from presumptive human adult OSC may be attributed instead to VASApos embryo-fetal primordial germ cell remnants in the adult ovary, or alternatively to earlier VASAneg germ cells generated by in-vitro de-differentiation of the presumptive OSC. The suggested hypotheses have extensive implications for the practice and safety of adult OSC in the development of new treatments aimed at rescuing the ovarian reserve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Tocci
- Gruppo Donnamed, Reproductive Medicine Unit Via Cassia 1110 00189, Rome, Italy.
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31
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Stem Cells in Adult Mice Ovaries Form Germ Cell Nests, Undergo Meiosis, Neo-oogenesis and Follicle Assembly on Regular Basis During Estrus Cycle. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2021; 17:1695-1711. [PMID: 34455541 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-021-10237-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Very small embryonic-like (VSELs) and ovarian (OSCs) stem cells are located in adult mammalian ovary surface epithelium (OSE). OSCs can expand long-term and differentiate into oocyte-like structures in vitro and have resulted in birth of fertile pups. Lineage tracing studies have provided evidence to suggest OSCs differentiation into oocytes in vivo. But how these stem cells function under normal physiological conditions has not yet been well worked out. Besides studying STRA-8 and SCP-3 expression in enzymatically isolated OSE cells smears, mice were injected BrdU to track mitosis, meiosis and follicle assembly. H&E stained OSE cells during late diestrus and proestrus showed VSELs undergoing asymmetrical cell divisions to give rise to slightly bigger OSCs which in turn underwent symmetrical cell divisions followed by clonal expansion (rapid expansion with incomplete cytokinesis) during early estrus to form germ cell nests (GCN). OCT-4, SSEA-1, MVH and DAZL positive cells in GCN expressed Erα, Erβ and FSHR, were interconnected by ring canals (TEX-14), showed mitochondrial aggregation (Cytochrome C) and Balbiani Body (TRAL). Apoptosis in 'nurse' cells was marked by PARP and putative oocytes were clearly visualized. BrdU was detected in cells undergoing mitosis/meiosis and also in an oocyte of secondary follicle. FACS sorted, green fluorescent protein (GFP) positive VSELs upon transplantation resulted in GFP positive GCN suggesting crucial role for VSELs in adult ovaries. Results suggest that various events described during oogenesis and follicle assembly in fetal ovaries are recapitulated on regular basis in adult ovary and result in the formation of follicles.
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32
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Kakar SS, Ratajczak MZ. Paper of October Issue of Stem Cell Reviews and Reports Presents a Novel View on Oogenesis in Adult Mammalian Ovaries. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2021; 17:1519-1520. [PMID: 34448117 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-021-10248-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sham S Kakar
- Department of Physiology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA
| | - Mariusz Z Ratajczak
- Department of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA.
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Bhartiya D, Singh P, Sharma D, Kaushik A. Very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) regenerate whereas mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) rejuvenate diseased reproductive tissues. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2021; 18:1718-1727. [PMID: 34410593 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-021-10243-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Compared to embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells, mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) have made their presence felt with good therapeutic promise and safety profile. Transplanting MSCs has successfully helped to reverse infertility and resulted in live births in animal models and also in humans. But the underlying mechanism for their therapeutic potential is not yet clear. MSCs are not pluripotent and hence lack plasticity to differentiate into multiple adult cell types. They rather act as 'paracrine providers' to the tissue-resident stem cells since similar beneficial effects are also observed when their secretome (microvesicles or exosomes) is transplanted. Cytokines, growth factors, signaling lipids, mRNAs, and miRNAs secreted by MSCs enables tissue-resident stem cells to undergo differentiation into specific cell types. Tissue-resident stem cells include pluripotent, very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) and progenitors [spermatogonial (SSCs), ovarian (OSCs) and endometrial (EnSCs) stem cells in testes, ovary and uterus respectively] which function in a subtle manner to maintain life-long tissue homeostasis and regenerate damaged (non-functional) reproductive tissues by differentiating into sperm, oocytes and endometrial epithelial cells respectively. Similar to restoring spermatogenesis, primordial follicles numbers are increased upon transplanting MSCs. Published literature suggests that MSCs do not differentiate into epithelial cells in the endometrium. Nuclear OCT-4 positive VSELs and cytoplasmic OCT-4, AXIN2 and KERATIN-19 positive epithelial progenitors have a greater role during endometrial regeneration. We propose, transplantation of MSCs simply provides growth factors/cytokines essential for the tissue-resident stem/progenitor cells to undergo differentiation into sperm, eggs and endometrial epithelial cells in the reproductive tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India.
| | - Pushpa Singh
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India
| | - Diksha Sharma
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India
| | - Ankita Kaushik
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India
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Lunenfeld E. Specialty Grand Challenge—Assisted Reproduction. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2021; 3:551499. [PMID: 36304062 PMCID: PMC9580703 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.551499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
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35
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Saha S, Roy P, Corbitt C, Kakar SS. Application of Stem Cell Therapy for Infertility. Cells 2021; 10:1613. [PMID: 34203240 PMCID: PMC8303590 DOI: 10.3390/cells10071613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Infertility creates an immense impact on the psychosocial wellbeing of affected couples, leading to poor quality of life. Infertility is now considered to be a global health issue affecting approximately 15% of couples worldwide. It may arise from factors related to the male (30%), including varicocele, undescended testes, testicular cancer, and azoospermia; the female (30%), including premature ovarian failure and uterine disorders; or both partners (30%). With the recent advancement in assisted reproduction technology (ART), many affected couples (80%) could find a solution. However, a substantial number of couples cannot conceive even after ART. Stem cells are now increasingly being investigated as promising alternative therapeutics in translational research of regenerative medicine. Tremendous headway has been made to understand the biology and function of stem cells. Considering the minimum ethical concern and easily available abundant resources, extensive research is being conducted on induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) for their potential application in reproductive medicine, especially in cases of infertility resulting from azoospermia and premature ovarian insufficiency. However, most of these investigations have been carried out in animal models. Evolutionary divergence observed in pluripotency among animals and humans requires caution when extrapolating the data obtained from murine models to safely apply them to clinical applications in humans. Hence, more clinical trials based on larger populations need to be carried out to investigate the relevance of stem cell therapy, including its safety and efficacy, in translational infertility medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarama Saha
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh 249203, India;
| | - Partha Roy
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee 247667, India;
| | - Cynthia Corbitt
- Department of Biology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40292, USA;
| | - Sham S. Kakar
- Department of Physiology and James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40292, USA
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Hainaut M, Clarke HJ. Germ cells of the mammalian female: A limited or renewable resource? Biol Reprod 2021; 105:774-788. [PMID: 34114006 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In many non-mammalian organisms, a population of germ-line stem cells supports continuing production of gametes during most or all the life of the individual, and germ-line stem cells are also present and functional in male mammals. Traditionally, however, they have been thought not to exist in female mammals, who instead generate all their germ cells during fetal life. Over the last several years, this dogma has been challenged by several reports, while supported by others. We describe and compare these conflicting studies with the aim of understanding how they came to opposing conclusions. We first consider studies that, by examining marker-gene expression, the fate of genetically marked cells, and consequences of depleting the oocyte population, addressed whether ovaries of post-natal females contain oogonial stem cells (OSC) that give rise to new oocytes. We next discuss whether ovaries contain cells that, even if inactive under physiological conditions, nonetheless possess OSC properties that can be revealed through cell-culture. We then examine studies of whether cells harvested after long-term culture of cells obtained from ovaries can, following transplantation into ovaries of recipient females, give rise to oocytes and offspring. Finally, we note studies where somatic cells have been re-programmed to acquire a female germ-cell fate. We conclude that the weight of evidence strongly supports the traditional interpretation that germ-line stem cells do not exist post-natally in female mammals. However, the ability to generate germ cells from somatic cells in vitro establishes a method to generate new gametes from cells of post-natal mammalian females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Hainaut
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal Canada
| | - Hugh J Clarke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal Canada
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Advances in Female Germ Cell Induction from Pluripotent Stem Cells. Stem Cells Int 2021; 2021:8849230. [PMID: 33510796 PMCID: PMC7822693 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8849230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Germ cells are capable of maintaining species continuity through passing genetic and epigenetic information across generations. Female germ cells mainly develop during the embryonic stage and pass through subsequent developmental stages including primordial germ cells, oogonia, and oocyte. However, due to the limitation of using early human embryos as in vivo research model, in vitro research models are needed to reveal the early developmental process and related mechanisms of female germ cells. After birth, the number of follicles gradually decreases with age. Various conditions which damage ovarian functions would cause premature ovarian failure. Alternative treatments to solve these problems need to be investigated. Germ cell differentiation from pluripotent stem cells in vitro can simulate early embryonic development of female germ cells and clarify unresolved issues during the development process. In addition, pluripotent stem cells could potentially provide promising applications for female fertility preservation after proper in vitro differentiation. Mouse female germ cells have been successfully reconstructed in vitro and delivered to live offspring. However, the derivation of functional human female germ cells has not been fully achieved due to technical limitations and ethical issues. To provide an updated and comprehensive information, this review centers on the major studies on the differentiation of mouse and human female germ cells from pluripotent stem cells and provides references to further studies of developmental mechanisms and potential therapeutic applications of female germ cells.
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Bhartiya D, Kaushik A. Testicular Stem Cell Dysfunction Due to Environmental Insults Could Be Responsible for Deteriorating Reproductive Health of Men. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:649-658. [PMID: 33409879 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00411-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Reproductive health of men has declined over time including reduced semen quality specifically sperm count, increased incidence of infertility, and testicular cancers. Our recent findings suggest that these disease states possibly arise as a result of disruption of testicular stem cells biology by perinatal insults including exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals. Testicular stem cells include relatively quiescent, very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs), and actively dividing spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Both VSELs and SSCs express estrogen receptors and are directly vulnerable to endocrine disruption. Exposing mice pups to estradiol (20 μg/pup/day on days 5-7) or diethylstilbestrol (2 μg/pup/day on days 1-5) affected spermatogenesis during adult life with reduced numbers of tubules in stage VIII, tetraploid cells and sperm. These mice were infertile and majority of diethylstilbestrol treated mice revealed testicular cancer-like changes. An increase in VSEL numbers, observed by both flow cytometry and qRT-PCR, was associated with marked reduction of c-KIT positive spermatogonial cells. VSELs undergo epigenetic changes due to endocrine disruption that results in blocked differentiation (impaired spermatogenesis) leading to reduced sperm count and infertility, and their excessive self-renewal initiates cancer-like changes in adult life. Thus, testicular dysgenesis syndrome (TDS) has a stem cell rather than a genetic basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India.
| | - Ankita Kaushik
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India
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Mehravar M, Ghaemimanesh F, Poursani EM. An Overview on the Complexity of OCT4: at the Level of DNA, RNA and Protein. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2021; 17:1121-1136. [PMID: 33389631 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-020-10098-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OCT4 plays critical roles in self-renewal and pluripotency maintenance of embryonic stem cells, and is considered as one of the main stemness markers. It also has pivotal roles in early stages of embryonic development. Most studies on OCT4 have focused on the expression and function of OCT4A, which is the biggest isoform of OCT4 known so far. Recently, many studies have shown that OCT4 has various transcript variants, protein isoforms, as well as pseudogenes. Distinguishing the expression and function of these variants and isoforms is a big challenge in expression profiling studies of OCT4. Understanding how OCT4 is functioning in different contexts, depends on knowing of where and when each of OCT4 transcripts, isoforms and pseudogenes are expressed. Here, we review OCT4 known transcripts, isoforms and pseudogenes, as well as its interactions with other proteins, and emphasize the importance of discriminating each of them in order to understand the exact function of OCT4 in stem cells, normal development and development of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid Mehravar
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Development and Stem Cells Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Fatemeh Ghaemimanesh
- Monoclonal Antibody Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ensieh M Poursani
- Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Zhang PY, Fan Y, Tan T, Yu Y. Generation of Artificial Gamete and Embryo From Stem Cells in Reproductive Medicine. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:781. [PMID: 32793569 PMCID: PMC7387433 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In addition to the great growing need for assisted reproduction technologies (ART), additional solutions for patients without functional gametes are strongly needed. Due to ethical restrictions, limited studies can be performed on human gametes and embryos; however, artificial gametes and embryos represent a new hope for clinical application and basic research in the field of reproductive medicine. Here, we provide a review of the research progress and possible application of artificial gametes and embryos from different species, including mice, monkeys and humans. Gametes specification from adult stem cells and embryonic stem cells (ESCs) as well as propagation of stem cells from the reproductive system and from organized embryos, which are similar to blastocysts, have been realized in some nonhuman mammals, but not all achievements can be replicated in humans. This area of research remains noteworthy and requires further study and effort to achieve the reconstitution of the entire cycle of gametogenesis and embryo development in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pu-Yao Zhang
- Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yong Fan
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tao Tan
- Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research, Institute of Primate Translational Medicine, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Yang Yu
- Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
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Dompe C, Kranc W, Jopek K, Kowalska K, Ciesiółka S, Chermuła B, Bryja A, Jankowski M, Perek J, Józkowiak M, Moncrieff L, Hutchings G, Janowicz K, Pawelczyk L, Bruska M, Petitte J, Mozdziak P, Kulus M, Piotrowska-Kempisty H, Spaczyński RZ, Nowicki M, Kempisty B. Muscle Cell Morphogenesis, Structure, Development and Differentiation Processes Are Significantly Regulated during Human Ovarian Granulosa Cells In Vitro Cultivation. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9062006. [PMID: 32604796 PMCID: PMC7355984 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9062006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Granulosa cells (GCs) have many functions and are fundamental for both folliculogenesis and oogenesis, releasing hormones and communicating directly with the oocyte. Long-term in vitro cultures of GCs show significant stem-like characteristics. In the current study, RNA of human ovarian granulosa cells was collected at 1, 7, 15 and 30 days of long-term in vitro culture. Understanding the process of differentiation of GCs towards different cell lineages, as well as the molecular pathways underlying these mechanisms, is fundamental to revealing other possible stemness markers of this type of cell. Identifying new markers of GC plasticity may help to understand the aetiology and recurrence of a wide variety of diseases and health conditions and reveal possible clinical applications of the ovarian tissue cells, affecting not only the reproductive ability but also sex hormone production. Granulosa cells were the subject of this study, as they are readily available as remnant material leftover after in vitro fertilisation procedures and exhibit significant stem-like characteristics in culture. The change in gene expression was investigated through a range of molecular and bioinformatic analyses. Expression microarrays were used, allowing the identification of groups of genes typical of specific cellular pathways. This candidate gene study focused on ontological groups associated with muscle cell morphogenesis, structure, development and differentiation, namely, “muscle cell development”, “muscle cell differentiation”, “muscle contraction”, “muscle organ development”, “muscle organ morphogenesis”, “muscle structure development”, “muscle system process” and “muscle tissue development”. The results showed that the 10 most upregulated genes were keratin 19, oxytocin receptor, connective tissue growth factor, nexilin, myosin light chain kinase, cysteine and glycine-rich protein 3, caveolin 1, actin, activating transcription factor 3 and tropomyosin, while the 10 most downregulated consisted of epiregulin, prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2, transforming growth factor, interleukin, collagen, 5-hydroxytryptmine, interleukin 4, phosphodiesterase, wingless-type MMTV integration site family and SRY-box 9. Moreover, ultrastructural observations showing heterogeneity of granulosa cell population are presented in the study. At least two morphologically different subpopulations were identified: large, light coloured and small, darker cells. The expression of genes belonging to the mentioned ontological groups suggest the potential ability of GCs to differentiate and proliferate toward muscle lineage, showing possible application in muscle regeneration and the treatment of different diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Dompe
- The School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK; (C.D.); (L.M.); (G.H.); (K.J.)
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 6 Święcickiego St., 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (K.J.); (K.K.); (S.C.); (M.N.)
| | - Wiesława Kranc
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 6 Święcickiego St., 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (W.K.); (A.B.); (M.J.); (J.P.); (M.B.)
| | - Karol Jopek
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 6 Święcickiego St., 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (K.J.); (K.K.); (S.C.); (M.N.)
| | - Katarzyna Kowalska
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 6 Święcickiego St., 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (K.J.); (K.K.); (S.C.); (M.N.)
| | - Sylwia Ciesiółka
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 6 Święcickiego St., 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (K.J.); (K.K.); (S.C.); (M.N.)
| | - Błażej Chermuła
- Division of Infertility and Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 33 Polna St., 60-535 Poznan, Poland; (B.C.); (L.P.); (R.Z.S.)
| | - Artur Bryja
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 6 Święcickiego St., 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (W.K.); (A.B.); (M.J.); (J.P.); (M.B.)
| | - Maurycy Jankowski
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 6 Święcickiego St., 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (W.K.); (A.B.); (M.J.); (J.P.); (M.B.)
| | - Joanna Perek
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 6 Święcickiego St., 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (W.K.); (A.B.); (M.J.); (J.P.); (M.B.)
| | - Małgorzata Józkowiak
- Department of Toxicology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 30 Dojazd St., 60-631 Poznan, Poland; (M.J.); (H.P.-K.)
| | - Lisa Moncrieff
- The School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK; (C.D.); (L.M.); (G.H.); (K.J.)
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 6 Święcickiego St., 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (K.J.); (K.K.); (S.C.); (M.N.)
| | - Greg Hutchings
- The School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK; (C.D.); (L.M.); (G.H.); (K.J.)
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 6 Święcickiego St., 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (W.K.); (A.B.); (M.J.); (J.P.); (M.B.)
| | - Krzysztof Janowicz
- The School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK; (C.D.); (L.M.); (G.H.); (K.J.)
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 6 Święcickiego St., 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (W.K.); (A.B.); (M.J.); (J.P.); (M.B.)
| | - Leszek Pawelczyk
- Division of Infertility and Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 33 Polna St., 60-535 Poznan, Poland; (B.C.); (L.P.); (R.Z.S.)
| | - Małgorzata Bruska
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 6 Święcickiego St., 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (W.K.); (A.B.); (M.J.); (J.P.); (M.B.)
| | - James Petitte
- Prestage Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA;
| | - Paul Mozdziak
- Physiology Graduate Program, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA;
| | - Magdalena Kulus
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 1 Lwowska St., 87-100 Toruń, Poland;
| | - Hanna Piotrowska-Kempisty
- Department of Toxicology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 30 Dojazd St., 60-631 Poznan, Poland; (M.J.); (H.P.-K.)
| | - Robert Z. Spaczyński
- Division of Infertility and Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecological Oncology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 33 Polna St., 60-535 Poznan, Poland; (B.C.); (L.P.); (R.Z.S.)
| | - Michał Nowicki
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 6 Święcickiego St., 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (K.J.); (K.K.); (S.C.); (M.N.)
| | - Bartosz Kempisty
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 6 Święcickiego St., 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (K.J.); (K.K.); (S.C.); (M.N.)
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 6 Święcickiego St., 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (W.K.); (A.B.); (M.J.); (J.P.); (M.B.)
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 1 Lwowska St., 87-100 Toruń, Poland;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital and Masaryk University, 20 Jihlavská St., 62500 Brno, Czech Republic
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-61-854-6567; Fax: +48-61-854-6568
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Zuber E, Schweitzer D, Allen D, Parte S, Kakar SS. Stem Cells in Ovarian Cancer and Potential Therapies. PROCEEDINGS OF STEM CELL RESEARCH AND ONCOGENESIS 2020; 8:e1001. [PMID: 32776013 PMCID: PMC7413600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Zuber
- Department of Physiology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY40202
| | - Diana Schweitzer
- Department of Physiology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY40202
| | - Dominick Allen
- Department of Physiology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY40202
| | - Seema Parte
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska, Omaha, NE-68198-5870
| | - Sham S. Kakar
- Department of Physiology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY40202
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202
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43
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Bhartiya D, Sharma D. Ovary does harbor stem cells - size of the cells matter! J Ovarian Res 2020; 13:39. [PMID: 32303227 PMCID: PMC7164193 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-020-00647-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A recent study published in the journal Nature Communications from Karolinska Institute, Sweden was unable to detect stem cells in adult human ovarian cortex by single-cell RNAseq and by studying cell surface antigen profiles by flow cytometry studies. Their findings are startling since stem cells have been well characterized in the adult mammalian ovary of several species including mouse, rabbit, monkey, sheep, pig and humans. Ovarian stem cells include pluripotent, very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) and slightly bigger ovarian stem cells (OSCs) which are easily visualized in smears obtained by gently scraping the ovary surface. The potential of ovarian stem cells to differentiate into oocyte-like structures in vitro and also resulting in the birth of mouse pups has been reported. A possible role of ovarian VSELs in initiation of ovarian cancers has also been delineated. The ovarian stem cells can also be collected by enzymatic digestion of ovarian tissue for various studies, taking care to always pellet the cells suspension at 1000 g since this high speed is required to collect the small-sized stem cell populations (VSELs & OSCs) with high nucleo-cytoplasmic ratio. These stem cells invariably get discarded when cells suspension is spun at lower speed. The cells were spun at 300 g for various experiments in the Karolinska study and this is the underlying reason for their negative results. Stem cells were inadvertently and unknowingly discarded and never got analyzed by single-cell RNAseq and flow cytometry experiments. To conclude, stem cells surely exist in adult mammalian ovary and their role during neo-oogenesis and primordial follicle assembly under physiological conditions is currently being investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India.
| | - Diksha Sharma
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India
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Zhang M, Liu L, Cao X, Liu Y, Di J, Huang X, Sun F, Huang W, Xu F. Efficiently accumulating germ-like stem cells from mouse postnatal ovary by in situ tissue culture. Dev Growth Differ 2020; 62:223-231. [PMID: 32189336 DOI: 10.1111/dgd.12656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Although recent studies have revealed that germline stem cells (GSCs) exist in the mouse postnatal ovary, how to efficiently obtain GSCs for regenerating neo-oogenesis is still a technical challenge. Here, we report that using in situ tissue culture we can efficiently accumulate large amounts of proliferating germ-like cells from mouse postnatal ovaries. Usually, more than 10,000 germ-like cells can be derived from one ovary by this method, and over 20% of these cells can grow into germ-like cells with self-renewal, which thus can serve as a good cell pool to isolate GSCs by other cell assorting methods such as FACS. This method is simple and time-saving, which should be useful for in future studies on mouse GSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meizi Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Li Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaomin Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Ye Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jianyong Di
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiuying Huang
- Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fangzhen Sun
- Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Weihong Huang
- Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fengqin Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tianjin First Central Hospital, Tianjin, China
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45
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Ovarian Cancer, Cancer Stem Cells and Current Treatment Strategies: A Potential Role of Magmas in the Current Treatment Methods. Cells 2020; 9:cells9030719. [PMID: 32183385 PMCID: PMC7140629 DOI: 10.3390/cells9030719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2019] [Revised: 03/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) constitutes 90% of ovarian cancers (OC) and is the eighth most common cause of cancer-related death in women. The cancer histologically and genetically is very complex having a high degree of tumour heterogeneity. The pathogenic variability in OC causes significant impediments in effectively treating patients, resulting in a dismal prognosis. Disease progression is predominantly influenced by the peritoneal tumour microenvironment rather than properties of the tumor and is the major contributor to prognosis. Standard treatment of OC patients consists of debulking surgery, followed by chemotherapy, which in most cases end in recurrent chemoresistant disease. This review discusses the different origins of high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC), the major sub-type of EOC. Tumour heterogeneity, genetic/epigenetic changes, and cancer stem cells (CSC) in facilitating HGSOC progression and their contribution in the circumvention of therapy treatments are included. Several new treatment strategies are discussed including our preliminary proof of concept study describing the role of mitochondria-associated granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor signaling protein (Magmas) in HGSOC and its unique potential role in chemotherapy-resistant disease.
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Wagner M, Yoshihara M, Douagi I, Damdimopoulos A, Panula S, Petropoulos S, Lu H, Pettersson K, Palm K, Katayama S, Hovatta O, Kere J, Lanner F, Damdimopoulou P. Single-cell analysis of human ovarian cortex identifies distinct cell populations but no oogonial stem cells. Nat Commun 2020; 11:1147. [PMID: 32123174 PMCID: PMC7052271 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-14936-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The human ovary orchestrates sex hormone production and undergoes monthly structural changes to release mature oocytes. The outer lining of the ovary (cortex) has a key role in defining fertility in women as it harbors the ovarian reserve. It has been postulated that putative oogonial stem cells exist in the ovarian cortex and that these can be captured by DDX4 antibody isolation. Here, we report single-cell transcriptomes and cell surface antigen profiles of over 24,000 cells from high quality ovarian cortex samples from 21 patients. Our data identify transcriptional profiles of six main cell types; oocytes, granulosa cells, immune cells, endothelial cells, perivascular cells, and stromal cells. Cells captured by DDX4 antibody are perivascular cells, not oogonial stem cells. Our data do not support the existence of germline stem cells in adult human ovaries, thereby reinforcing the dogma of a limited ovarian reserve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Wagner
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Masahito Yoshihara
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Iyadh Douagi
- Center of Hematology and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Flow Cytometry Section, Research Technologies Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | - Sarita Panula
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sophie Petropoulos
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Medicine, Centre de recherche du CHUM, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Haojiang Lu
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karin Pettersson
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kerstin Palm
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Visby hospital, Visby, Sweden
| | - Shintaro Katayama
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Outi Hovatta
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Juha Kere
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Folkhälsan Research Institute, Helsinki, and Stem Cells and Metabolism Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Fredrik Lanner
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. .,Ming Wai Lau Center for Reparative Medicine, Stockholm node, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Pauliina Damdimopoulou
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Parte S, Virant-Klun I, Patankar M, Batra SK, Straughn A, Kakar SS. PTTG1: a Unique Regulator of Stem/Cancer Stem Cells in the Ovary and Ovarian Cancer. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2019; 15:866-879. [PMID: 31482269 PMCID: PMC10723898 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-019-09911-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Origin of cancer stem cells (CSCs) and mechanisms by which oncogene PTTG1 contributes to tumor progression via CSCs is not known. Ovarian CSCs exhibit characteristics of self-renewal, tumor-initiation, growth, differentiation, drug resistance, and tumor relapse. A common location of putative origin, namely the ovarian surface epithelium, is shared between the normal stem and CSC compartments. Existence of ovarian stem cells and their co-expression with CSC signatures suggests a strong correlation between origin of epithelial cancer and CSCs. We hereby explored a putative oncogene PTTG1 (Securin), reported to be overexpressed in various tumors, including ovarian. We report a previously overlooked role of PTTG1 as a marker of CSCs thereby modulating CSC, germline, and stemness-related genes. We further characterized PTTG1's ability to regulate (cancer) stem cell-associated self-renewal and epithelial-mesenchymal transition pathways. Collectively, the data sheds light on a potential target expressed during ovarian tumorigenesis and metastatically disseminated ascites CSCs in the peritoneal cavity. Present study highlights this unconventional, under-explored role of PTTG1 in regulation of stem and CSC compartments in ovary, ovarian cancer and ascites and highlights it as a potential candidate for developing CSC specific targeted therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seema Parte
- Department of Physiology, University of Louisville, 505 South Hancock Street, Clinical and Translational Research Building, Room 322, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Irma Virant-Klun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Manish Patankar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Alex Straughn
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Sham S Kakar
- Department of Physiology, University of Louisville, 505 South Hancock Street, Clinical and Translational Research Building, Room 322, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA.
- James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA.
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48
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Hoang SN, Ho CNQ, Nguyen TTP, Doan CC, Tran DH, Le LT. Evaluation of stemness marker expression in bovine ovarian granulosa cells. Anim Reprod 2019; 16:277-281. [PMID: 33224287 PMCID: PMC7673596 DOI: 10.21451/1984-3143-ar2018-0083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to assess the stemness marker expressions (Oct4, Nanog, and Sox2) of granulosa cells (GCs) collected from bovine ovarian follicles and in vitro expansion. The single bovine ovarian follicles were isolated and categorized into 4 groups according to their diameter including group A (<2 mm), group B (2-3 mm), group C (3-4 mm), and group D (>4 mm). Quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and immunostaining were applied to evaluate the stemness marker expression of bovine GCs from ovarian follicles. We also estimated the stemness marker transcript expressions of GCs during in vitro expression by qRT-PCR. qRT-PCR analysis demonstrated that fresh GCs from bovine ovarian follicles expressed the stemness markers (Oct4, Nanog, Sox2). These markers were down-regulated during antral stage follicular development. We also estimated stemness marker transcript expressions of GCs which were isolated and in vitro expanded from ovarian follicles of group A. The qRT-PCR results showed that Oct4 and Sox2 transcript expressions were reduced during in vitro expansion while Nanog transcript was not expressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Son Nghia Hoang
- Animal Biotechnology Department, Institute of Tropical Biology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Chi Nguyen Quynh Ho
- Animal Biotechnology Department, Institute of Tropical Biology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Thao Thi Phuong Nguyen
- Animal Biotechnology Department, Institute of Tropical Biology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Chung Chinh Doan
- Animal Biotechnology Department, Institute of Tropical Biology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Diem Hong Tran
- Department of Internal Medicine - Cardiology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Long Thanh Le
- Animal Biotechnology Department, Institute of Tropical Biology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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49
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Kenda Suster N, Virant-Klun I. Presence and role of stem cells in ovarian cancer. World J Stem Cells 2019; 11:383-397. [PMID: 31396367 PMCID: PMC6682502 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v11.i7.383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Revised: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the deadliest gynecological malignancy. It is typically diagnosed at advanced stages of the disease, with metastatic sites disseminated widely within the abdominal cavity. Ovarian cancer treatment is challenging due to high disease recurrence and further complicated pursuant to acquired chemoresistance. Cancer stem cell (CSC) theory proposes that both tumor development and progression are driven by undifferentiated stem cells capable of self-renewal and tumor-initiation. The most recent evidence revealed that CSCs in terms of ovarian cancer are not only responsible for primary tumor growth, metastasis and relapse of disease, but also for the development of chemoresistance. As the elimination of this cell population is critical for increasing treatment success, a deeper understanding of ovarian CSCs pathobiology, including epithelial-mesenchymal transition, signaling pathways and tumor microenvironment, is needed. Finally, before introducing new therapeutic agents for ovarian cancer, targeting CSCs, accurate identification of different ovarian stem cell subpopulations, including the very small embryonic-like stem cells suggested as progenitors, is necessary. To these ends, reliable markers of ovarian CSCs should be identified. In this review, we present the current knowledge and a critical discussion concerning ovarian CSCs and their clinical role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasa Kenda Suster
- Department of Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana 1000, Slovenia
| | - Irma Virant-Klun
- Department of Human Reproduction, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana 1000, Slovenia
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Similar Population of CD133+ and DDX4+ VSEL-Like Stem Cells Sorted from Human Embryonic Stem Cell, Ovarian, and Ovarian Cancer Ascites Cell Cultures: The Real Embryonic Stem Cells? Cells 2019; 8:cells8070706. [PMID: 31336813 PMCID: PMC6678667 DOI: 10.3390/cells8070706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 07/07/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A population of small stem cells with diameters of up to 5 μm resembling very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) were sorted from human embryonic stem cell (hESC) cultures using magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) based on the expression of a stem-cell-related marker prominin-1 (CD133). These VSEL-like stem cells had nuclei that almost filled the whole cell volume and expressed stem-cell-related markers (CD133, SSEA-4) and markers of germinal lineage (DDX4/VASA, PRDM14). They were comparable to similar populations of small stem cells sorted from cell cultures of normal ovaries and were the predominant cells in ascites of recurrent ovarian cancer. The sorted populations of CD133+ VSEL-like stem cells were quiescent in vitro, except for ascites, and were highly activated after exposure to valproic acid and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), indicating a new tool to study these cells in vitro. These VSEL-like stem cells spontaneously formed clusters resembling tumour-like structures or grew into larger, oocyte-like cells and were differentiated in vitro into adipogenic, osteogenic and neural lineages after sorting. We propose the population of VSEL-like stem cells from hESC cultures as potential original embryonic stem cells, which are present in the human embryo, persist in adult human ovaries from the embryonic period of life and are involved in cancer manifestation.
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