1
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Zhu Z, Xu W, Liu L. Ovarian aging: mechanisms and intervention strategies. MEDICAL REVIEW (BERLIN, GERMANY) 2022; 2:590-610. [PMID: 37724254 PMCID: PMC10471094 DOI: 10.1515/mr-2022-0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian reserve is essential for fertility and influences healthy aging in women. Advanced maternal age correlates with the progressive loss of both the quantity and quality of oocytes. The molecular mechanisms and various contributing factors underlying ovarian aging have been uncovered. In this review, we highlight some of critical factors that impact oocyte quantity and quality during aging. Germ cell and follicle reserve at birth determines reproductive lifespan and timing the menopause in female mammals. Accelerated diminishing ovarian reserve leads to premature ovarian aging or insufficiency. Poor oocyte quality with increasing age could result from chromosomal cohesion deterioration and misaligned chromosomes, telomere shortening, DNA damage and associated genetic mutations, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and epigenetic alteration. We also discuss the intervention strategies to delay ovarian aging. Both the efficacy of senotherapies by antioxidants against reproductive aging and mitochondrial therapy are discussed. Functional oocytes and ovarioids could be rejuvenated from pluripotent stem cells or somatic cells. We propose directions for future interventions. As couples increasingly begin delaying parenthood in life worldwide, understanding the molecular mechanisms during female reproductive aging and potential intervention strategies could benefit women in making earlier choices about their reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengmao Zhu
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Wanxue Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, College of Life Science, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Union Medical Center, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
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2
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Heng D, Sheng X, Tian C, Li J, Liu L, Gou M, Liu L. Mtor inhibition by INK128 extends functions of the ovary reconstituted from germline stem cells in aging and premature aging mice. Aging Cell 2021; 20:e13304. [PMID: 33448083 PMCID: PMC7884035 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell transplantation has been generally considered as promising therapeutics in preserving or recovering functions of lost, damaged, or aging tissues. Transplantation of primordial germ cells (PGCs) or oogonia stem cells (OSCs) can reconstitute ovarian functions that yet sustain for only short period of time, limiting potential application of stem cells in preservation of fertility and endocrine function. Here, we show that mTOR inhibition by INK128 extends the follicular and endocrine functions of the reconstituted ovaries in aging and premature aging mice following transplantation of PGCs/OSCs. Follicular development and endocrine functions of the reconstituted ovaries by transplanting PGCs into kidney capsule of the recipient mice were maintained by INK128 treatment for more than 12 weeks, in contrast to the controls for only about 4 weeks without receiving the mTOR inhibitors. Comparatively, rapamycin also can prolong the ovarian functions but for limited time. Furthermore, our data reveal that INK128 promotes mitochondrial function in addition to its known function in suppression of immune response and inflammation. Taken together, germline stem cell transplantation in combination with mTOR inhibition by INK128 improves and extends the reconstituted ovarian and endocrine functions in reproductive aging and premature aging mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dai Heng
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Department of Cell Biology and GeneticsCollege of Life SciencesNankai UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Xiaoyan Sheng
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Department of Cell Biology and GeneticsCollege of Life SciencesNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Animal Resources CenterNankai UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Chenglei Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Department of Cell Biology and GeneticsCollege of Life SciencesNankai UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Jie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Department of Cell Biology and GeneticsCollege of Life SciencesNankai UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Linlin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Department of Cell Biology and GeneticsCollege of Life SciencesNankai UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Mo Gou
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Department of Cell Biology and GeneticsCollege of Life SciencesNankai UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Lin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical BiologyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Department of Cell Biology and GeneticsCollege of Life SciencesNankai UniversityTianjinChina
- Animal Resources CenterNankai UniversityTianjinChina
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3
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In vitro differentiation of human embryonic stem cells into ovarian follicle-like cells. Nat Commun 2017; 8:15680. [PMID: 28604658 PMCID: PMC5472783 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms15680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 04/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the unique mechanisms of human oogenesis necessitates the development of an in vitro system of stem cell differentiation into oocytes. Specialized cell types and organoids have been derived from human pluripotent stem cells in vitro, but generating a human ovarian follicle remains a challenge. Here we report that human embryonic stem cells can be induced to differentiate into ovarian follicle-like cells (FLCs) in vitro. First, we find that two RNA-binding proteins specifically expressed in germ cells, DAZL and BOULE, regulate the exit from pluripotency and entry into meiosis. By expressing DAZL and BOULE with recombinant human GDF9 and BMP15, these meiotic germ cells are further induced to form ovarian FLCs, including oocytes and granulosa cells. This robust in vitro differentiation system will allow the study of the unique molecular mechanisms underlying human pluripotent stem cell differentiation into late primordial germ cells, meiotic germ cells and ovarian follicles.
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4
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Liu KH, Sun XF, Feng YZ, Cheng SF, Li B, Li YP, Shen W, Li L. The impact of Zearalenone on the meiotic progression and primordial follicle assembly during early oogenesis. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2017; 329:9-17. [PMID: 28552778 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2017.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2016] [Revised: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Zearalenone (ZEA) is a mycotoxin produced by fusarium graminearum. It can cause abnormal reproductive function by acting as an environmental estrogen. Research has traditionally focused on acute and chronic injury on mammalian reproductive capacity after ZEA treatment. Little research has been done studying the effects of ZEA exposure on early oogenesis. In this study, we investigate the effects of ZEA exposure on meiotic entry, DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), and primordial follicle assembly during murine early oogenesis. The results show that ZEA exposure significantly decreased the percentage of diplotene stage germ cells, and made more germ cells remain at zygotene or pachytene stages. Moreover, the mRNA expression level of meiosis-related genes was significantly reduced after ZEA treatment. ZEA exposure significantly increased DNA-DSBs at the diplotene stage. Meanwhile, DNA damage repair genes such as RAD51 and BRCA1 were activated. Furthermore, maternal exposure to ZEA significantly decreased the number of primordial follicles in newborn mouse ovaries. In conclusion, ZEA exposure impairs mouse female germ cell meiotic progression, DNA-DSBs, and primordial follicle assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Han Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Sun
- College of Life Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Yan-Zhong Feng
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Heilongjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Shun-Feng Cheng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Bo Li
- Chengguo Station of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Laizhou 261437, China
| | - Ya-Peng Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Wei Shen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Lan Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China.
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5
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Zeng M, Sheng X, Keefe DL, Liu L. Reconstitution of ovarian function following transplantation of primordial germ cells. Sci Rep 2017; 7:1427. [PMID: 28469243 PMCID: PMC5431110 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-01648-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2017] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian aging occurs earlier than somatic aging. We tested the hypothesis that ovarian functions could be artificially reconstructed by transplantation of primordial germ cells (PGCs). We compared various methods for transplantation of PGCs aggregated with gonadal somatic cells and showed that reconstituted ovaries exhibited folliculogenesis after transplantation of PGCs-aggregates into either kidney capsule or ovarian bursa. Neo-oogenesis occurred early after transplantation, as evidenced by the presence of prophase I meiocytes displaying homologous pairing. Moreover, endocrine function was recovered in ovariectomized recipients, including elevated levels of AMH and estradiol. Interestingly, folliculogenesis in the reconstituted ovaries failed to sustain past four weeks. Regardless of transplantation method, follicles diminished after 45 days, accompanied by increased apoptosis, and were undetectable after two months. Meanwhile, no replicative PGCs or prophase I meiocytes could be found. Together, transplantation of PGCs can effectively reconstitute ovarian functions but for limited time. These data suggest that PGCs do not undergo self-renewal but rapidly enter meiosis following transplantation. Global activation of primordial follicles in artificial ovaries can result in further rapid loss of germ cells. Methods for maintaining self-renewal and expansion in vivo of PGCs and controlling follicle activation will be essential for continuing maintenance of the functional reconstructed ovaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Xiaoyan Sheng
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - David L Keefe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Lin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
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6
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Wang LQ, Liu JC, Chen CL, Cheng SF, Sun XF, Zhao Y, Yin S, Hou ZM, Pan B, Ding C, Shen W, Zhang XF. Regulation of primordial follicle recruitment by cross-talk between the Notch and phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN)/AKT pathways. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 28:700-12. [PMID: 25344626 DOI: 10.1071/rd14212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2014] [Accepted: 09/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The growth of oocytes and the development of follicles require certain pathways involved in cell proliferation and survival, such as the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway and the Notch signalling pathway. The aim of the present study was to investigate the interaction between Notch and the PI3K/AKT signalling pathways and their effects on primordial follicle recruitment. When the Notch pathway was inhibited by L-685,458 or N-[N-(3,5-difluorophenacetyl)-l-alanyl]-S-phenylglycinet-butyl ester (DAPT) in vitro, the expression of genes in the pathway and the percentage of oocytes in growing follicles decreased significantly in mouse ovaries. By 2 days postpartum, ovaries exposed to DAPT, short interference (si) RNA against Notch1 or siRNA against Hairy and enhancer of split-1 (Hes1) had significantly decreased expression of HES1, the target protein of the Notch signalling pathway. In contrast, expression of phosphatase and tensin homologue (Pten), a negative regulator of the AKT signalling pathway, was increased significantly. Co immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) revealed an interaction between HES1 and PTEN. In addition, inhibition of the Notch signalling pathway suppressed AKT phosphorylation and the proliferation of granulosa cells. In conclusion, the recruitment of primordial follicles was affected by the proliferation of granulosa cells and regulation of the interaction between the Notch and PI3K/AKT signalling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin-Qing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Jing-Cai Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Chun-Lei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Shun-Feng Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Sun
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Yong Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Shen Yin
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Zhu-Mei Hou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Bo Pan
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Cheng Ding
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Wei Shen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Xi-Feng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, Qingdao 266109, China
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7
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Zhang GL, Sun XF, Feng YZ, Li B, Li YP, Yang F, Nyachoti CM, Shen W, Sun SD, Li L. Zearalenone exposure impairs ovarian primordial follicle formation via down-regulation of Lhx8 expression in vitro. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2017; 317:33-40. [PMID: 28089945 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2017.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Revised: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Zearalenone (ZEA) is an estrogenic mycotoxin mainly produced as a secondary metabolite by numerous species of Fusarium. Previous work showed that ZEA had a negative impact on domestic animals with regard to reproduction. The adverse effects and the mechanisms of ZEA on mammalian ovarian folliculogenesis remain largely unknown, particularly its effect on primordial follicle formation. Thus, we investigated the biological effects of ZEA exposure on murine ovarian germ cell cyst breakdown and primordial follicle assembly. Our results demonstrated that newborn mouse ovaries exposed to 10 or 30μM ZEA in vitro had significantly less germ cell numbers compared to the control group. Moreover, the presence of ZEA in vitro increased the numbers of TUNEL and γH2AX positive cells within mouse ovaries and the ratio of mRNA levels of the apoptotic genes Bax/Bcl-2. Furthermore, ZEA exposure reduced the mRNA of oocyte specific genes such as LIM homeobox 8 (Lhx8), newborn ovary homeobox (Nobox), spermatogenesis and oogenesis helix-loop-helix (Sohlh2), and factor in the germline alpha (Figlα) in a dose dependent manner. Exposure to ZEA led to remarkable changes in the Lhx8 3'-UTR DNA methylation dynamics in oocytes and severely impaired folliculogenesis in ovaries after transplantation under the kidney capsules of immunodeficient mice. In conclusion, ZEA exposure impairs mouse primordial follicle formation in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Liang Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Sun
- Institute of Reproductive Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong 266109, China
| | - Yan-Zhong Feng
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Heilongjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150086, China
| | - Bo Li
- Chengguo Station of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Laizhou 261437, China
| | - Ya-Peng Li
- Institute of Reproductive Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong 266109, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Institute of Reproductive Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong 266109, China
| | | | - Wei Shen
- Institute of Reproductive Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong 266109, China
| | - Shi-Duo Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China.
| | - Lan Li
- Institute of Reproductive Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, Shandong 266109, China.
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8
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Ge W, Cheng SF, Dyce PW, De Felici M, Shen W. Skin-derived stem cells as a source of primordial germ cell- and oocyte-like cells. Cell Death Dis 2016; 7:e2471. [PMID: 27831564 PMCID: PMC5260893 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2016.366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2016] [Revised: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 09/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The skin is a unique organ that contains a variety of stem cells for the maintenance of skin homeostasis and the repair of skin tissues following injury and disease. Skin-derived stem cells (SDSCs) constitute a heterogeneous population of stem cells generated in vitro from dermis, which can be cultured as spherical aggregates of cells in suspension culture. Under certain in vitro or in vivo conditions, SDSCs show multipotency and can generate a variety of neural, mesodermal, and endodermal cell types such as neurons, glia, fibroblasts, adipocytes, muscle cells, chondroblasts, osteoblats, and islet β-cell-like cells. SDSCs are likely derived from multipotent stem cells located in the hair follicles that are, in turn, derived from embryonic migratory neural crest or mesoderm cells. During the past decade, a wave of reports have shown that germ cells can be generated from various types of stem cells. It has been shown that SDSCs are able to produce primordial germ cell-like cells in vitro, and even oocyte-like cells (OLCs). Whether these germ cell-like cells (GCLCs) can give rise to viable progeny remains, however, unknown. In this review, we will discuss the origin and characteristics of SDSCs from which the GCLC are derived, the possible mechanisms of this differentiation process, and finally the prospective biomedical applications of the SDSC-derived GCLCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Ge
- Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Shun-Feng Cheng
- Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Paul W Dyce
- Department of Animal Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Massimo De Felici
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome 00133, Italy
| | - Wei Shen
- Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
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9
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Retinoic acid promotes the proliferation of primordial germ cell–like cells differentiated from mouse skin-derived stem cells in vitro. Theriogenology 2016; 85:408-18. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Revised: 08/17/2015] [Accepted: 09/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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10
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Ge W, Chen C, De Felici M, Shen W. In vitro differentiation of germ cells from stem cells: a comparison between primordial germ cells and in vitro derived primordial germ cell-like cells. Cell Death Dis 2015; 6:e1906. [PMID: 26469955 PMCID: PMC4632295 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2015.265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2015] [Revised: 08/01/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Stem cells are unique cell types capable to proliferate, some of them indefinitely, while maintaining the ability to differentiate into a few or any cell lineages. In 2003, a group headed by Hans R. Schöler reported that oocyte-like cells could be produced from mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells in vitro. After more than 10 years, where have these researches reached? Which are the major successes achieved and the problems still remaining to be solved? Although during the last years, many reviews have been published about these topics, in the present work, we will focus on an aspect that has been little considered so far, namely a strict comparison between the in vitro and in vivo developmental capabilities of the primordial germ cells (PGCs) isolated from the embryo and the PGC-like cells (PGC-LCs) produced in vitro from different types of stem cells in the mouse, the species in which most investigation has been carried out. Actually, the formation and differentiation of PGCs are crucial for both male and female gametogenesis, and the faithful production of PGCs in vitro represents the basis for obtaining functional germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Ge
- Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - C Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - M De Felici
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome ‘Tor Vergata', Rome 00133, Italy
| | - W Shen
- Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
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11
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Liang GJ, Zhang XF, Wang JJ, Sun YC, Sun XF, Cheng SF, Li L, De Felici M, Shen W. Activin A accelerates the progression of fetal oocytes throughout meiosis and early oogenesis in the mouse. Stem Cells Dev 2015; 24:2455-65. [PMID: 26083127 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2015.0068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Activins can exert several roles in ovary development. However, little is known about their involvement in early mammalian oogenesis. In this study, we reported that activin receptors (including ActRIA, ActRIB, ActRIIA, and ActRIIB) are expressed throughout the development of the mouse ovaries from 12.5 days postcoitum (dpc) to 21 days postparturition (dpp). Moreover, we found that in vitro, the addition of activin A (ActA) to the culture medium of 12.5 dpc ovarian tissues accelerated the progression of oocytes throughout meiotic prophase I stages. This result was reproduced in vivo following administration of ActA to pregnant mice. The in vitro effect of ActA was associated with increased expression of premeiotic and meiotic genes (including Dazl, Spo11, Stra8, Scp3, and Rec8) in the ovarian tissues. Mechanistically, ActA-dependent SMAD3 signaling modulated the expression of members of the retinoic acid (RA) system, including the RA degradation CYP26B1 enzyme and the RA receptors. Finally, ActA promoted the survival and growth of fetal and early postnatal oocytes and primordial follicle assembly both in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, the present study identifies new roles of ActA in early oogenesis and suggested that ActA and RA might cooperate in promoting meiosis in female germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gui-Jin Liang
- 1 Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University , Qingdao, China .,2 Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University , Qingdao, China
| | - Xi-Feng Zhang
- 1 Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University , Qingdao, China .,2 Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University , Qingdao, China
| | - Jun-Jie Wang
- 1 Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University , Qingdao, China .,2 Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University , Qingdao, China
| | - Yuan-Chao Sun
- 1 Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University , Qingdao, China .,2 Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University , Qingdao, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Sun
- 1 Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University , Qingdao, China .,3 College of Life Science, Qingdao Agricultural University , Qingdao, China
| | - Shun-Feng Cheng
- 1 Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University , Qingdao, China .,2 Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University , Qingdao, China
| | - Lan Li
- 1 Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University , Qingdao, China .,2 Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University , Qingdao, China
| | - Massimo De Felici
- 4 Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata , Rome, Italy
| | - Wei Shen
- 1 Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University , Qingdao, China .,2 Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University , Qingdao, China
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12
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Hayama T, Yamaguchi T, Kato-Itoh M, Hamanaka S, Kawarai M, Sanbo M, Tamura C, Lee YS, Yanagida A, Murayama H, Mizuno N, Umino A, Sato H, Yamazaki S, Masaki H, Kobayashi T, Hirabayashi M, Nakauchi H. Generation of mouse functional oocytes in rat by xeno-ectopic transplantation of primordial germ cells. Biol Reprod 2014; 91:89. [PMID: 25165118 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.121640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are germ cell progenitors in the fetal genital ridge; female PGCs give rise to definitive oocytes that contribute to the next generation. Artificial PGCs have been induced in vitro from pluripotent stem cells and gonad-like tissue has been induced in vivo by cotransplantation of PGCs with PGC-free gonadal cells. To apply these technologies to human infertility treatment or conservation of rare species, PGC transplantation must be established in xenogenic animals. Here, we established a xenogeneic transplantation model by inducing ovary-like tissue from PGCs in xenogenic animals. We transplanted enzymatically dispersed PGCs with PGC-free gonadal cells under the kidney capsule of xenogenic immunodeficient animals. The transplanted cells formed ovary-like tissues under the kidney capsule. These tissues were histologically similar to the normal gonad and expressed the oocyte markers Vasa and Stella. In addition, mouse germinal vesicle-stage oocyte-like cells collected from ovary-like tissue in rats matured to metaphase II via in vitro maturation and gave rise to offspring by intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Our studies show that rat/mouse female PGCs and PGC-free gonadal cells can develop and reconstruct ovary-like tissue containing functional oocytes in an ectopic xenogenic microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomonari Hayama
- Division of Stem Cell Therapy, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Yamaguchi
- Division of Stem Cell Therapy, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Megumi Kato-Itoh
- Division of Stem Cell Therapy, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Sanae Hamanaka
- Division of Stem Cell Therapy, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mami Kawarai
- Division of Stem Cell Therapy, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Makoto Sanbo
- Center for Genetic Analysis of Behavior, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi, Japan
| | - Chihiro Tamura
- Center for Genetic Analysis of Behavior, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi, Japan
| | - Youn-Su Lee
- Division of Stem Cell Therapy, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayaka Yanagida
- Division of Stem Cell Therapy, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Murayama
- Division of Stem Cell Therapy, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naoaki Mizuno
- Division of Stem Cell Therapy, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayumi Umino
- Division of Stem Cell Therapy, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Sato
- Division of Stem Cell Therapy, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Yamazaki
- Division of Stem Cell Therapy, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideki Masaki
- Division of Stem Cell Therapy, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Kobayashi
- Division of Stem Cell Therapy, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masumi Hirabayashi
- Center for Genetic Analysis of Behavior, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi, Japan
| | - Hiromitsu Nakauchi
- Division of Stem Cell Therapy, Center for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
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13
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Feng XL, Sun YC, Zhang M, Cheng SF, Feng YN, Liu JC, Wang HH, Li L, Qin GQ, Shen W. Insulin regulates primordial-follicle assembly in vitro by affecting germ-cell apoptosis and elevating oestrogen. Reprod Fertil Dev 2014; 27:1197-204. [PMID: 24931389 DOI: 10.1071/rd14096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2014] [Accepted: 04/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Insulin is a protein secreted by pancreatic β-cells, which plays an important role in the regulation of ovarian function. However, the specific molecular mechanism of its function remains largely unknown. This study aimed to assess the effect of insulin on mouse folliculogenesis using an in vitro ovary-culture model. The results demonstrated that insulin promoted the proliferation of ovarian granulosa cells in vitro, and thereby accelerated the progress of folliculogenesis (the percentage of oocytes in cysts declined from 42.6% to 29.3%); however, the percentage of apoptotic oocytes increased after insulin treatment. Further investigation indicated that apoptosis occurred mainly in germ-cell cysts. After 3 days of insulin treatment, oestrogen in the culture medium of mouse ovaries significantly increased (P<0.01), while the lower dose of oestrogen promoted primordial-follicle assembly in vitro. In conclusion, insulin promoted folliculogenesis by facilitating germ-cell apoptosis within the cysts and upregulating oestrogen levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Lei Feng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Yuan-Chao Sun
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Shun-Feng Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Yan-Ni Feng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Jing-Cai Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Hong-Hui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Lan Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
| | - Guo-Qing Qin
- EMF Nutrition, 715 Marion Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R2J 0K6, Canada
| | - Wei Shen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China
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14
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Zhang T, Li L, Qin XS, Zhou Y, Zhang XF, Wang LQ, De Felici M, Chen H, Qin GQ, Shen W. Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate and bisphenol A exposure impairs mouse primordial follicle assembly in vitro. ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2014; 55:343-353. [PMID: 24458533 DOI: 10.1002/em.21847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2013] [Revised: 11/27/2013] [Accepted: 11/27/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol-A (BPA) and diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) are estrogenic compounds widely used in commercial plastic products. Previous studies have shown that exposure to such compounds have adverse effects on various aspects of mammalian reproduction including folliculogenesis. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of BPA and DEHP exposure on primordial follicle formation. We found that germ cell nest breakdown and primordial follicle assembly were significantly reduced when newborn mouse ovaries were exposed to 10 or 100 μM BPA and DEHP in vitro. Moreover, BPA and DEHP exposure increased the number of TUNEL positive oocytes and the mRNA level of the pro-apoptotic gene Bax in oocytes. These effects were associated with decreased expression of oocyte specific genes such as LIM homeobox 8 (Lhx8), factor in the germline alpha (Figla), spermatogenesis and oogenesis helix-loop-helix (Sohlh2), and newborn ovary homeobox (Nobox). Interestingly, BPA and DEHP exposure also prevented DNA demethylation of CpG sites of the Lhx8 gene in oocytes, a process normally associated with folliculogenesis. Finally, folliculogenesis was severely impaired in BPA and DEHP exposed ovaries after transplantation into the kidney capsules of immunodeficient mice. In conclusion, BPA and DEHP exposures impair mouse primordial follicle assembly in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teng Zhang
- Laboratory of Germ Cell Biology, Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong, College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
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15
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Primordial follicle assembly was regulated by notch signaling pathway in the mice. Mol Biol Rep 2014; 41:1891-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s11033-014-3038-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2013] [Accepted: 01/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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16
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Feng YM, Liang GJ, Pan B, Qin XS, Zhang XF, Chen CL, Li L, Cheng SF, De Felici M, Shen W. Notch pathway regulates female germ cell meiosis progression and early oogenesis events in fetal mouse. Cell Cycle 2014; 13:782-91. [PMID: 24398584 DOI: 10.4161/cc.27708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
A critical process of early oogenesis is the entry of mitotic oogonia into meiosis, a cell cycle switch regulated by a complex gene regulatory network. Although Notch pathway is involved in numerous important aspects of oogenesis in invertebrate species, whether it plays roles in early oogenesis events in mammals is unknown. Therefore, the rationale of the present study was to investigate the roles of Notch signaling in crucial processes of early oogenesis, such as meiosis entry and early oocyte growth. Notch receptors and ligands were localized in mouse embryonic female gonads and 2 Notch inhibitors, namely DAPT and L-685,458, were used to attenuate its signaling in an in vitro culture system of ovarian tissues from 12.5 days post coitum (dpc) fetus. The results demonstrated that the expression of Stra8, a master gene for germ cell meiosis, and its stimulation by retinoic acid (RA) were reduced after suppression of Notch signaling, and the other meiotic genes, Dazl, Dmc1, and Rec8, were abolished or markedly decreased. Furthermore, RNAi of Notch1 also markedly inhibited the expression of Stra8 and SCP3 in cultured female germ cells. The increased methylation status of CpG islands within the Stra8 promoter of the oocytes was observed in the presence of DAPT, indicating that Notch signaling is probably necessary for maintaining the epigenetic state of this gene in a way suitable for RA stimulation. Furthermore, in the presence of Notch inhibitors, progression of oocytes through meiosis I was markedly delayed. At later culture periods, the rate of oocyte growth was decreased, which impaired subsequent primordial follicle assembly in cultured ovarian tissues. Taken together, these results suggested new roles of the Notch signaling pathway in female germ cell meiosis progression and early oogenesis events in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Min Feng
- Laboratory of Germ Cell Biology; Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong; College of Animal Science and Technology; Qingdao Agricultural University; Qingdao, China
| | - Gui-Jin Liang
- Laboratory of Germ Cell Biology; Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong; College of Animal Science and Technology; Qingdao Agricultural University; Qingdao, China
| | - Bo Pan
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science; University of Guelph; Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Xun-Si Qin
- Laboratory of Germ Cell Biology; Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong; College of Animal Science and Technology; Qingdao Agricultural University; Qingdao, China
| | - Xi-Feng Zhang
- College of Biological and Pharmaceutical Engineering; Wuhan Polytechnic University; Wuhan, China
| | - Chun-Lei Chen
- Laboratory of Germ Cell Biology; Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong; College of Animal Science and Technology; Qingdao Agricultural University; Qingdao, China
| | - Lan Li
- Laboratory of Germ Cell Biology; Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong; College of Animal Science and Technology; Qingdao Agricultural University; Qingdao, China
| | - Shun-Feng Cheng
- Laboratory of Germ Cell Biology; Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong; College of Animal Science and Technology; Qingdao Agricultural University; Qingdao, China
| | - Massimo De Felici
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention; University of Rome "Tor Vergata"; Rome, Italy
| | - Wei Shen
- Laboratory of Germ Cell Biology; Key Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Germplasm Enhancement in Universities of Shandong; College of Animal Science and Technology; Qingdao Agricultural University; Qingdao, China
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