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Zhang KH, Jiao L, Wang Y, Sun SC. Arf6 GTPase deficiency leads to porcine oocyte quality decline during aging. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23739. [PMID: 38884157 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202400893r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Arf6 is a member of ADP-ribosylation factor (Arf) family, which is widely implicated in the regulation of multiple physiological processes including endocytic recycling, cytoskeletal organization, and membrane trafficking during mitosis. In this study, we investigated the potential relationship between Arf6 and aging-related oocyte quality, and its roles on organelle rearrangement and cytoskeleton dynamics in porcine oocytes. Arf6 expressed in porcine oocytes throughout meiotic maturation, and it decreased in aged oocytes. Disruption of Arf6 led to the failure of cumulus expansion and polar body extrusion. Further analysis indicated that Arf6 modulated ac-tubulin for meiotic spindle organization and microtubule stability. Besides, Arf6 regulated cofilin phosphorylation and fascin for actin assembly, which further affected spindle migration, indicating the roles of Arf6 on cytoskeleton dynamics. Moreover, the lack of Arf6 activity caused the dysfunction of Golgi and ER for protein synthesis and signal transduction. Mitochondrial dysfunction was also observed in Arf6-deficient porcine oocytes, which was supported by the increased ROS level and abnormal membrane potential. In conclusion, our results reported that insufficient Arf6 was related to aging-induced oocyte quality decline through spindle organization, actin assembly, and organelle rearrangement in porcine oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun-Huan Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Le Jiao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yue Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shao-Chen Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
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2
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Pargoo SS, Baniasadi F, Jasemi VSK, Hajiaghalou S, Gharanfoli M, Fathi R. Effect of Moderate Static Magnetic Fields on Mice Oocyte Vitrification: Calcium-Related Genes Expression. Biopreserv Biobank 2024. [PMID: 38527284 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2022.0200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The ability to cryopreserve oocytes without ultrastructural injury has been a concern in the development and use of methods to preserve female reproduction. The stability of the cell membrane must be preserved to reduce the damage caused by ice crystals during vitrification. One approach that has been explored is the use of static magnetic fields (SMFs), which are believed to influence cell membrane stability. In this study, the in vitro effects of SMF that range between 20-80 mT on the vitrification of mice germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes were studied. The viability and mitochondrial (Mt) membrane potential of both vitrified and nonvitrified oocytes were assessed using Trypan blue and JC1 staining. The high in vitro maturation (IVM) rate and high Mt membrane potential in metaphase II (MII) oocytes were taken into account to determine the optimal magnetic field intensity, that is, 20 mT. None of the SMF conditions resulted in intact spindles in MII oocytes. The study also explored the expression of store-operated calcium entry (Stim1, Orai1, and Ip3r) and meiosis resumption (Ccnb, Cdk) genes in GV and MII oocytes of both vitrified and control groups. The results show that the expressions of Orai1 and Ccnb genes in Vit-MII-SMF oocytes were considerably increased. However, no significant difference in Stim1 expression was observed between the groups. The Vit-MII-SMF group exhibited a significantly higher Ccnb expression compared to other groups. In vitro fertilization (IVF) was performed to evaluate the 2 pronuclear (2PN) rates. The findings demonstrated that using 20 mT SMF improved 2PN rates compared to the nonvitrified groups. This study provides a deeper understanding of the effects of moderate SMF and vitrification on the expression of calcium channel genes in GV and MII oocytes. The results suggest that applying a 20 mT SMF can help prevent cryoinjury and enhance the characteristics of vitrified-warmed oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Soleimani Pargoo
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences and Advanced Technologies in Biology, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Baniasadi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vida Sadat Kazemein Jasemi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Samira Hajiaghalou
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Gharanfoli
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences and Advanced Technologies in Biology, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rouhollah Fathi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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3
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Shafqat A, Kashir J, Alsalameh S, Alkattan K, Yaqinuddin A. Fertilization, Oocyte Activation, Calcium Release and Epigenetic Remodelling: Lessons From Cancer Models. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:781953. [PMID: 35309905 PMCID: PMC8931327 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.781953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte activation deficiency (OAD) is the basis of Total Fertilisation Failure (TFF) and is attributed to mutations in the PLCζ gene—termed male factor infertility. This derives abnormal Ca2+ oscillations and could be the main cause of primary disruptions in the gene expression of Ca2+-related proteins. Epigenetic mechanisms are universally accepted as key regulators of gene expression. However, epigenetic dysregulations have not been considered as potential mechanisms of oocyte-borne OAD. Herein, we discuss changes in the DNA methylome during oogenesis and embryogenesis. We further highlight key pathways comprising the oocyte Ca2+ toolkit, which could be targets of epigenetic alterations, especially aberrations in DNA methylation. Considering that the vast majority of epigenetic modifications examined during fertilization revolve around alterations in DNA methylation, we aim in this article to associate Ca2+-specific mechanisms with these alterations. To strengthen this perspective, we bring evidence from cancer research on the intricate link between DNA methylation and Ca2+ signaling as cancer research has examined such questions in a lot more detail. From a therapeutic standpoint, if our hypothesis is proven to be correct, this will explain the cause of TFF in idiopathic cases and will open doors for novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areez Shafqat
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Junaid Kashir
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Khaled Alkattan
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Yaqinuddin
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- *Correspondence: Ahmed Yaqinuddin,
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4
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Yu F, Machaca K. The STIM1 Phosphorylation Saga. Cell Calcium 2022; 103:102551. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2022.102551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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5
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Zhang LY, Lin M, Qingrui Z, Zichuan W, Junjin L, Kexiong L, Xiangwei F, Yunpeng H. Mitochondrial Calcium uniporters are essential for meiotic progression in mouse oocytes by controlling Ca 2+ entry. Cell Prolif 2021; 54:e13127. [PMID: 34546582 PMCID: PMC8560604 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives The alteration of bioenergetics by oocytes in response to the demands of various biological processes plays a critical role in maintaining normal cellular physiology. However, little is known about the association between energy sensing and energy production with energy‐dependent cellular processes like meiosis. Materials and methods We demonstrated that cell cycle‐dependent mitochondrial Ca2+ connects energy sensing to mitochondrial activity in meiosis progression within mouse oocytes. Further, we established a model in mouse oocytes using siRNA knockdowns that target mitochondrial calcium uniporters (MCUs) in order to inhibit mitochondrial Ca2+ concentrations. Results Decreased numbers of oocytes successfully progressed to the germinal vesicle stage and extruded the first polar body during in vitro culture after inhibition, while spindle checkpoint‐dependent meiosis was also delayed. Mitochondrial Ca2+ levels changed, and this was followed by altered mitochondrial masses and ATP levels within oocytes during the entirety of meiosis progression. Abnormal mitochondrial Ca2+ concentrations in oocytes then hindered meiotic progress and activated AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) signalling that is associated with gene expression. Conclusions These data provide new insight into the protective role that MCU‐dependent mitochondrial Ca2+ signalling plays in meiotic progress, in addition to demonstrating a new mechanism of mitochondrial energy regulation by AMPK signalling that influences meiotic maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Yao Zhang
- State Key Laboratories of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Meng Lin
- State Key Laboratories of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhuan Qingrui
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Wang Zichuan
- State Key Laboratories of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Li Junjin
- State Key Laboratories of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Liu Kexiong
- State Key Laboratories of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Fu Xiangwei
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Breeding, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, China
| | - Hou Yunpeng
- State Key Laboratories of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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6
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Wang F, Fan LH, Li A, Dong F, Hou Y, Schatten H, Sun QY, Ou XH. Effects of various calcium transporters on mitochondrial Ca 2+ changes and oocyte maturation. J Cell Physiol 2021; 236:6548-6558. [PMID: 33704771 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Ca2+ participates in many important cellular processes, but the underlying mechanisms are still poorly understood, especially during oocyte maturation. First, we confirmed that calcium in the culture medium was essential for oocyte maturation. Next, various inhibitors of Ca2+ channels were applied to investigate their roles in mitochondrial Ca2+ changes and oocyte maturation. Our results showed that Trmp7, Orai, T-type Ca2+ channels and Na+ /Ca2+ exchanger complex (NCLX) were important for oocyte maturation. Trmp7 inhibition delayed germinal vesicle breakdown. Orai and NCLX inhibition significantly weakened the distribution of mitochondrial Ca2+ around the nucleus compared to the Ctrl group. Interestingly, even T-type Ca2+ channels-specific inhibitor Mibefradil blocked germinal vesicle breakdown; mitochondrial Ca2+ surrounding the nucleus still was maintained at a high level without spindle formation. Two calcium transporter inhibitors, Thapsigargin and Ruthenium Red, which have been confirmed to inhibit oocyte activation, did not significantly affect oocyte maturation. Increasing the knowledge of calcium transport may provide a basis to build on for improving oocyte in vitro maturation in human assisted reproduction clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Wang
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou, China
| | - Li-Hua Fan
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Feng Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Heide Schatten
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Qing-Yuan Sun
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiang-Hong Ou
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
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7
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Daei-Farshbaf N, Aflatoonian R, Amjadi FS, Nikniyaz H, Taleahmad S, Bakhtiyari M. Identification of calcineurin as a predictor of oocyte quality and fertilization competence based on microarray data. Comput Biol Chem 2021; 94:107561. [PMID: 34461466 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiolchem.2021.107561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of our study was to detect a biomarker for selection of competent oocytes with acceptable fertilization potential. Calcium ion fluctuation play the most critical role of modulating intercellular signaling pathways in oocyte maturation, egg activation and the egg-to-embryo transition. Since, the stimulatory action of calcium ion is mediated by binding to certain proteins, the calcium/calmodulin-binding genes (CBGs), as the main calcium binding group, was analyzed in detail. METHODS In this work, bioinformatics analysis was conducted on the CBGs of human cumulus cells (CCs) to elucidate a reliable biomarker for fertile oocyte selection. Calcineurin (CaN) or protein phosphatase 3 (PPP3) was selected which consists of a catalytic subunit A with PPP3CA (Aα), PPP3CB (Aβ), and PPP3CC (Aγ) isoforms and a regulatory subunit B. Whereas CaN A regulates calcium ion function, our study gives insights to probable role of related isoforms within human oogenesis process. The presence of CaN A in CCs surrounding growing and mature oocytes was confirmed by western blotting and the expression patterns of related isoforms were examined by reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). RESULTS Our results indicated the increased expression of the catalytic subunit of CaN protein in the CCs of metaphase (M) II oocytes. The expression level of PPP3CB was significantly elevated in CCs of fertile MII compared with those in the germinal vesicle (GV), MI and unfertilized MII oocytes (P ≤ 0.05). CONCLUSION Elevated level of PPP3CB isoform in the CCs of fertile MII oocyte could be a reliable indication of oocyte fertilization potential. However, further researches are required to introduce CaN Aβ as an appropriate biomarker for oocyte selection in assisted reproduction technique (ART) programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Daei-Farshbaf
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 14155-5983, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Aflatoonian
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research, P.O. Box: 16635-148, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh-Sadat Amjadi
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 14155-5983, Tehran, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box:14155-5983, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Nikniyaz
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 14155-5983, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Taleahmad
- Department of Molecular Systems Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology (RI-SCBT), Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research, P.O. Box: 16635-148, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Bakhtiyari
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 14155-5983, Tehran, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box:14155-5983, Tehran, Iran.
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8
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Egbert JR, Fahey PG, Reimer J, Owen CM, Evsikov AV, Nikolaev VO, Griesbeck O, Ray RS, Tolias AS, Jaffe LA. Follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone increase Ca2+ in the granulosa cells of mouse ovarian follicles†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:433-444. [PMID: 31087036 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Revised: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammalian ovarian follicles, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) signal primarily through the G-protein Gs to elevate cAMP, but both of these hormones can also elevate Ca2+ under some conditions. Here, we investigate FSH- and LH-induced Ca2+ signaling in intact follicles of mice expressing genetically encoded Ca2+ sensors, Twitch-2B and GCaMP6s. At a physiological concentration (1 nM), FSH elevates Ca2+ within the granulosa cells of preantral and antral follicles. The Ca2+ rise begins several minutes after FSH application, peaks at ∼10 min, remains above baseline for another ∼10 min, and depends on extracellular Ca2+. However, suppression of the FSH-induced Ca2+ increase by reducing extracellular Ca2+ does not inhibit FSH-induced phosphorylation of MAP kinase, estradiol production, or the acquisition of LH responsiveness. Like FSH, LH also increases Ca2+, when applied to preovulatory follicles. At a physiological concentration (10 nM), LH elicits Ca2+ oscillations in a subset of cells in the outer mural granulosa layer. These oscillations continue for at least 6 h and depend on the activity of Gq family G-proteins. Suppression of the oscillations by Gq inhibition does not inhibit meiotic resumption, but does delay the time to 50% ovulation by about 3 h. In summary, both FSH and LH increase Ca2+ in the granulosa cells of intact follicles, but the functions of these Ca2+ rises are only starting to be identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy R Egbert
- Department of Cell Biology, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Paul G Fahey
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jacob Reimer
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Corie M Owen
- Department of Cell Biology, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Alexei V Evsikov
- Department of Research and Development, Bay Pines Veteran Administration Healthcare System, Bay Pines, FL, USA
| | - Viacheslav O Nikolaev
- Institute of Experimental Cardiovascular Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Russell S Ray
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Andreas S Tolias
- Institute of Experimental Cardiovascular Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Center for Neuroscience and Artificial Intelligence, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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9
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Stein P, Savy V, Williams AM, Williams CJ. Modulators of calcium signalling at fertilization. Open Biol 2020; 10:200118. [PMID: 32673518 PMCID: PMC7574550 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.200118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcium (Ca2+) signals initiate egg activation across the animal kingdom and in at least some plants. These signals are crucial for the success of development and, in the case of mammals, health of the offspring. The mechanisms associated with fertilization that trigger these signals and the molecules that regulate their characteristic patterns vary widely. With few exceptions, a major contributor to fertilization-induced elevation in cytoplasmic Ca2+ is release from endoplasmic reticulum stores through the IP3 receptor. In some cases, Ca2+ influx from the extracellular space and/or release from alternative intracellular stores contribute to the rise in cytoplasmic Ca2+. Following the Ca2+ rise, the reuptake of Ca2+ into intracellular stores or efflux of Ca2+ out of the egg drive the return of cytoplasmic Ca2+ back to baseline levels. The molecular mediators of these Ca2+ fluxes in different organisms include Ca2+ release channels, uptake channels, exchangers and pumps. The functions of these mediators are regulated by their particular activating mechanisms but also by alterations in their expression and spatial organization. We discuss here the molecular basis for modulation of Ca2+ signalling at fertilization, highlighting differences across several animal phyla, and we mention key areas where questions remain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Stein
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Virginia Savy
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Audrey M. Williams
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Carmen J. Williams
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
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10
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Dietary calcium deficiency suppresses follicle selection in laying ducks through mechanism involving cyclic adenosine monophosphate-mediated signaling pathway. Animal 2020; 14:2100-2108. [PMID: 32367795 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731120000907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian follicle selection is a natural biological process in the pre-ovulatory hierarchy in birds that drives growing follicles to be selected within the ovulatory cycle. Follicle selection in birds is strictly regulated, involving signaling pathways mediated by dietary nutrients, gonadotrophic hormones and paracrine factors. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that dietary Ca may participate in regulating follicle selection in laying ducks through activating the signaling pathway of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)/protein kinase A (PKA)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), possibly mediated by gonadotrophic hormones. Female ducks at 22 weeks of age were initially fed one of two Ca-deficient diets (containing 1.8% or 0.38% Ca) or a Ca-adequate control diet (containing 3.6% Ca) for 67 days (depletion period), then all birds were fed the Ca-adequate diet for an additional 67 days (repletion period). Compared with the Ca-adequate control, ducks fed 0.38% Ca during the depletion period had significantly decreased (P < 0.05) numbers of hierarchical follicles and total ovarian weight, which were accompanied by reduced egg production. Plasma concentration of FSH was decreased by the diet containing 1.8% Ca but not by that containing 0.38%. The ovarian content of cAMP was increased with the two Ca-deficient diets, and phosphorylation of PKA and ERK1/2 was increased with 0.38% dietary Ca. Transcripts of ovarian estradiol receptor 2 and luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR) were reduced in the ducks fed the two Ca-deficient diets (P < 0.05), while those of the ovarian follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) were decreased in the ducks fed 0.38% Ca. The transcript abundance of ovary gap junction proteins, A1 and A4, was reduced with the Ca-deficient diets (P < 0.05). The down-regulation of gene expression of gap junction proteins and hormone receptors, the increased cAMP content and the suppressed hierarchical follicle numbers were reversed by repletion of dietary Ca. These results indicate that dietary Ca deficiency negatively affects follicle selection of laying ducks, independent of FSH, but probably by activating cAMP/PKA/ERK1/2 signaling pathway.
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11
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Ardestani G, Mehregan A, Fleig A, Horgen FD, Carvacho I, Fissore RA. Divalent cation influx and calcium homeostasis in germinal vesicle mouse oocytes. Cell Calcium 2020; 87:102181. [PMID: 32097818 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2020.102181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Prior to maturation, mouse oocytes are arrested at the germinal vesicle (GV) stage during which they experience constitutive calcium (Ca2+) influx and spontaneous Ca2+ oscillations. The oscillations cease during maturation but Ca2+ influx continues, as the oocytes' internal stores attain maximal content at the culmination of maturation, the metaphase II stage. The identity of the channel(s) that underlie this Ca2+ influx has not been completely determined. GV and matured oocytes are known to express three Ca2+ channels, CaV3.2, TRPV3 and TRPM7, but females null for each of these channels are fertile and their oocytes display minor modifications in Ca2+ homeostasis, suggesting a complex regulation of Ca2+ influx. To define the contribution of these channels at the GV stage, we used different divalent cations, pharmacological inhibitors and genetic models. We found that the three channels are active at this stage. CaV3.2 and TRPM7 channels contributed the majority of Ca2+ influx, as inhibitors and oocytes from homologous knockout (KO) lines showed severely reduced Ca2+ entry. Sr2+ influx was promoted by CaV3.2 channels, as Sr2+ oscillations were negligible in CaV3.2-KO oocytes but robust in control and Trpv3-KO GV oocytes. Mn2+ entry relied on expression of CaV3.2 and TRPM7 channels, but Ni2+ entry depended on the latter. CaV3.2 and TRPV3 channels combined to fill the Ca2+ stores, although CaV3.2 was the most impactful. Studies with pharmacological inhibitors effectively blocked the influx of divalent cations, but displayed off-target effects, and occasionally agonist-like properties. In conclusion, GV oocytes express channels mediating Ca2+ and other divalent cation influx that are pivotal for fertilization and early development. These channels may serve as targets for intervention to improve the success of assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goli Ardestani
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 661 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA
| | - Aujan Mehregan
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 661 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA
| | - Andrea Fleig
- Center for Biomedical Research at The Queen's Medical Center and University of Hawaii Cancer Center and John A. Burns School of Medicine at the University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, 96813, USA
| | - F David Horgen
- Department of Natural Sciences, Hawaii Pacific University, Kaneohe, HI, 96744, USA
| | - Ingrid Carvacho
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Universidad Católica del Maule, 3480112, Talca, Chile
| | - Rafael A Fissore
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 661 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA.
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12
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McDonough CE, Bernhardt ML, Williams CJ. Mouse strain-dependent egg factors regulate calcium signals at fertilization. Mol Reprod Dev 2020; 87:284-292. [PMID: 31944466 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Calcium (Ca2+ ) signals triggered at fertilization initiate resumption of the cell cycle and initial steps of embryonic development. In mammals, the sperm factor phospholipase Cζ triggers the release of Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), initiating an oscillatory pattern of Ca2+ transients that is modulated by egg factors including Ca2+ influx channels, Ca2+ transporters, and phosphoinositide-regulating enzymes. Here we compared characteristics of Ca2+ oscillations following in vitro fertilization (IVF) and ER Ca2+ stores among nine common laboratory mouse strains: CF1, C57BL6, SJL, CD1, DBA, FVB, 129X1, BALBc, 129S1, and the F1 hybrid B6129SF1. Sperm from B6SJLF1/J males was used for all IVF experiments. There were significant differences among the strains with respect to duration and maximum amplitude of the first Ca2+ transient, frequency of oscillations, and ER Ca2+ stores. With male strain held constant, the differences in Ca2+ oscillation patterns observed result from variation in egg factors across different mouse strains. Our results support the importance of egg-intrinsic properties in determining Ca2+ oscillation patterns and have important implications for the interpretation and comparison of studies on Ca2+ dynamics at fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin E McDonough
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Miranda L Bernhardt
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Carmen J Williams
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
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13
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Wakai T, Mehregan A, Fissore RA. Ca 2+ Signaling and Homeostasis in Mammalian Oocytes and Eggs. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2019; 11:cshperspect.a035162. [PMID: 31427376 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a035162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Changes in the intracellular concentration of calcium ([Ca2+]i) represent a vital signaling mechanism enabling communication between and among cells as well as with the environment. Cells have developed a sophisticated set of molecules, "the Ca2+ toolkit," to adapt [Ca2+]i changes to specific cellular functions. Mammalian oocytes and eggs, the subject of this review, are not an exception, and in fact the initiation of embryo devolvement in all species is entirely dependent on distinct [Ca2+]i responses. Here, we review the components of the Ca2+ toolkit present in mammalian oocytes and eggs, the regulatory mechanisms that allow these cells to accumulate Ca2+ in the endoplasmic reticulum, release it, and maintain basal and stable cytoplasmic concentrations. We also discuss electrophysiological and genetic studies that have uncovered Ca2+ influx channels in oocytes and eggs, and we analyze evidence supporting the role of a sperm-specific phospholipase C isoform as the trigger of Ca2+ oscillations during mammalian fertilization including its implication in fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuya Wakai
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003
| | - Aujan Mehregan
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003
| | - Rafael A Fissore
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003
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14
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Remodeling of ER-plasma membrane contact sites but not STIM1 phosphorylation inhibits Ca 2+ influx in mitosis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:10392-10401. [PMID: 31064875 PMCID: PMC6535005 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1821399116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms blocking Ca2+ influx in mitosis are complex and involve a decrease in stable endoplasmic reticulum (ER)–plasma membrane (PM) contact sites and degradation of the ER Ca2+ sensor stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1) but not its phosphorylation. This challenges the current view that STIM1 phosphorylation is essential for mitotic store-operated Ca2+ entry inhibition and sheds light on the dynamics of ER–PM contact sites and of Ca2+ influx in mitosis. Store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE), mediated by the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+ sensor stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1) and the plasma membrane (PM) channel Orai1, is inhibited during mitosis. STIM1 phosphorylation has been suggested to mediate this inhibition, but it is unclear whether additional pathways are involved. Here, we demonstrate using various approaches, including a nonphosphorylatable STIM1 knock-in mouse, that STIM1 phosphorylation is not required for SOCE inhibition in mitosis. Rather, multiple pathways converge to inhibit Ca2+ influx in mitosis. STIM1 interacts with the cochaperone BAG3 and localizes to autophagosomes in mitosis, and STIM1 protein levels are reduced. The density of ER–PM contact sites (CSs) is also dramatically reduced in mitosis, thus physically preventing STIM1 and Orai1 from interacting to activate SOCE. Our findings provide insights into ER–PM CS remodeling during mitosis and a mechanistic explanation of the inhibition of Ca2+ influx that is required for cell cycle progression.
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15
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Wakai T, Fissore RA. Constitutive IP 3R1-mediated Ca 2+ release reduces Ca 2+ store content and stimulates mitochondrial metabolism in mouse GV oocytes. J Cell Sci 2019; 132:jcs.225441. [PMID: 30659110 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.225441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, fertilization initiates Ca2+ oscillations in metaphase II oocytes, which are required for the activation of embryo development. Germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes also display Ca2+ oscillations, although these unfold spontaneously in the absence of any known agonist(s) and their function remains unclear. We found that the main intracellular store of Ca2+ in GV oocytes, the endoplasmic reticulum ([Ca2+]ER), constitutively 'leaks' Ca2+ through the type 1 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor. The [Ca2+]ER leak ceases around the resumption of meiosis, the GV breakdown (GVBD) stage, which coincides with the first noticeable accumulation of Ca2+ in the stores. It also concurs with downregulation of the Ca2+ influx and termination of the oscillations, which seemed underpinned by the inactivation of the putative plasma membrane Ca2+ channels. Lastly, we demonstrate that mitochondria take up Ca2+ during the Ca2+ oscillations, mounting their own oscillations that stimulate the mitochondrial redox state and increase the ATP levels of GV oocytes. These distinct features of Ca2+ homeostasis in GV oocytes are likely to underpin the acquisition of both maturation and developmental competence, as well as fulfill stage-specific cellular functions during oocyte maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuya Wakai
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 661 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Rafael A Fissore
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 661 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
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16
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TRPM7 and Ca V3.2 channels mediate Ca 2+ influx required for egg activation at fertilization. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2018; 115:E10370-E10378. [PMID: 30322909 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1810422115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The success of mammalian development following fertilization depends on a series of transient increases in egg cytoplasmic Ca2+, referred to as Ca2+ oscillations. Maintenance of these oscillations requires Ca2+ influx across the plasma membrane, which is mediated in part by T-type, CaV3.2 channels. Here we show using genetic mouse models that TRPM7 channels are required to support this Ca2+ influx. Eggs lacking both TRPM7 and CaV3.2 stop oscillating prematurely, indicating that together they are responsible for the majority of Ca2+ influx immediately following fertilization. Fertilized eggs lacking both channels also frequently display delayed resumption of Ca2+ oscillations, which appears to require sperm-egg fusion. TRPM7 and CaV3.2 channels almost completely account for Ca2+ influx observed following store depletion, a process previously attributed to canonical store-operated Ca2+ entry mediated by STIM/ORAI interactions. TRPM7 serves as a membrane sensor of extracellular Mg2+ and Ca2+ concentrations and mediates the effects of these ions on Ca2+ oscillation frequency. When bred to wild-type males, female mice carrying eggs lacking TRPM7 and CaV3.2 are subfertile, and their offspring have increased variance in postnatal weight. These in vivo findings confirm previous observations linking in vitro experimental alterations in Ca2+ oscillatory patterns with developmental potential and offspring growth. The identification of TRPM7 and CaV3.2 as key mediators of Ca2+ influx following fertilization provides a mechanistic basis for the rational design of culture media that optimize developmental potential in research animals, domestic animals, and humans.
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17
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Carvacho I, Piesche M, Maier TJ, Machaca K. Ion Channel Function During Oocyte Maturation and Fertilization. Front Cell Dev Biol 2018; 6:63. [PMID: 29998105 PMCID: PMC6028574 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2018.00063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The proper maturation of both male and female gametes is essential for supporting fertilization and the early embryonic divisions. In the ovary, immature fully-grown oocytes that are arrested in prophase I of meiosis I are not able to support fertilization. Acquiring fertilization competence requires resumption of meiosis which encompasses the remodeling of multiple signaling pathways and the reorganization of cellular organelles. Collectively, this differentiation endows the egg with the ability to activate at fertilization and to promote the egg-to-embryo transition. Oocyte maturation is associated with changes in the electrical properties of the plasma membrane and alterations in the function and distribution of ion channels. Therefore, variations on the pattern of expression, distribution, and function of ion channels and transporters during oocyte maturation are fundamental to reproductive success. Ion channels and transporters are important in regulating membrane potential, but also in the case of calcium (Ca2+), they play a critical role in modulating intracellular signaling pathways. In the context of fertilization, Ca2+ has been shown to be the universal activator of development at fertilization, playing a central role in early events associated with egg activation and the egg-to-embryo transition. These early events include the block of polyspermy, the completion of meiosis and the transition to the embryonic mitotic divisions. In this review, we discuss the role of ion channels during oocyte maturation, fertilization and early embryonic development. We will describe how ion channel studies in Xenopus oocytes, an extensively studied model of oocyte maturation, translate into a greater understanding of the role of ion channels in mammalian oocyte physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Carvacho
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile
| | - Matthias Piesche
- Biomedical Research Laboratories, Medicine Faculty, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile
| | - Thorsten J. Maier
- Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Care Medicine and Pain Therapy, Goethe-University Hospital, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Khaled Machaca
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell-Medicine-Qatar, Education City, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
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18
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Águila L, Felmer R, Arias ME, Navarrete F, Martin-Hidalgo D, Lee HC, Visconti P, Fissore R. Defective sperm head decondensation undermines the success of ICSI in the bovine. Reproduction 2018; 154:307-318. [PMID: 28751536 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Revised: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The efficiency of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in the bovine is low compared to other species. It is unknown whether defective oocyte activation and/or sperm head decondensation limit the success of this technique in this species. To elucidate where the main obstacle lies, we used homologous and heterologous ICSI and parthenogenetic activation procedures. We also evaluated whether in vitro maturation negatively impacted the early stages of activation after ICSI. Here we showed that injected bovine sperm are resistant to nuclear decondensation by bovine oocytes and this is only partly overcome by exogenous activation. Remarkably, when we used heterologous ICSI, in vivo-matured mouse eggs were capable of mounting calcium oscillations and displaying normal PN formation following injection of bovine sperm, although in vitro-matured mouse oocytes were unable to do so. Together, our data demonstrate that bovine sperm are especially resistant to nuclear decondensation by in vitro-matured oocytes and this deficiency cannot be simply overcome by exogenous activation protocols, even by inducing physiological calcium oscillations. Therefore, the inability of a suboptimal ooplasmic environment to induce sperm head decondensation limits the success of ICSI in the bovine. Studies aimed to improve the cytoplasmic milieu of in vitro-matured oocytes and to replicate the molecular changes associated with in vivo capacitation and acrosome reaction will deepen our understanding of the mechanism of fertilization and improve the success of ICSI in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Águila
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile.,Department of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile.,School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad Mayor Sede Temuco, Temuco, Chile
| | - Ricardo Felmer
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile.,Department of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - María Elena Arias
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile.,Department of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Felipe Navarrete
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, Integrated Sciences Building, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
| | - David Martin-Hidalgo
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction, Research Institute INBIO G+C, University of Extremadura, Caceres, Spain.,Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, Integrated Sciences Building, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Hoi Chang Lee
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, Integrated Sciences Building, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Pablo Visconti
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, Integrated Sciences Building, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rafael Fissore
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, Integrated Sciences Building, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
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19
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Zhang L, Chao CH, Jaeger LA, Papp AB, Machaty Z. Calcium oscillations in fertilized pig oocytes are associated with repetitive interactions between STIM1 and ORAI1. Biol Reprod 2018; 98:510-519. [PMID: 29365044 PMCID: PMC5905661 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 09/25/2017] [Revised: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The Ca2+ entry mechanism that sustains the Ca2+ oscillations in fertilized pig oocytes was investigated. Stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1) and ORAI1 proteins tagged with various fluorophores were expressed in the oocytes. In some cells, the Ca2+ stores were depleted using cyclopiazonic acid (CPA); others were inseminated. Changes in the oocytes' cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration were monitored, while interaction between the expressed fusion proteins was investigated using fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET). Store depletion led to an increase of the FRET signal in oocytes co-expressing mVenus-STIM1 and mTurquoise2-ORAI1, indicating that Ca2+ release was followed by an interaction between these proteins. A similar FRET increase in response to CPA was also detected in oocytes co-expressing mVenus-STIM1 and mTurquoise2-STIM1, which is consistent with STIM1 forming punctae after store depletion. ML-9, an inhibitor that can interfere with STIM1 puncta formation, blocked store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) induced by Ca2+ add-back after a CPA treatment; it also disrupted the Ca2+ oscillations in fertilized oocytes. In addition, oocytes overexpressing mVenus-STIM1 showed high-frequency Ca2+ oscillations when fertilized, arguing for an active role of the protein. High-frequency Ca2+ oscillations were also detected in fertilized oocytes co-expressing mVenus-STIM1 and mTurquoise2-ORAI1, and both of these high-frequency Ca2+ oscillations could be stopped by inhibitors of SOCE. Importantly, in oocytes co-expressing mVenus-STIM1 and mTurquoise2-ORAI1, we were also able to detect cyclic increases of the FRET signal indicating repetitive interactions between STIM1 and ORAI1. The results confirm the notion that in pig oocytes, SOCE is involved in the maintenance of the repetitive Ca2+ transients at fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Zhang
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | | | - Laurie A Jaeger
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | - Agnes Bali Papp
- Department of Animal Sciences, Széchenyi István University, Győr, Hungary
| | - Zoltan Machaty
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
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20
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Ferrer-Buitrago M, Bonte D, De Sutter P, Leybaert L, Heindryckx B. Single Ca 2+ transients vs oscillatory Ca 2+ signaling for assisted oocyte activation: limitations and benefits. Reproduction 2017; 155:R105-R119. [PMID: 29122969 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Revised: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Oocyte activation is a calcium (Ca2+)-dependent process that has been investigated in depth, in particular, regarding its impact on assisted reproduction technology (ART). Following a standard model of signal transduction, Ca2+ drives the meiotic progression upon fertilization in all species studied to date. However, Ca2+ changes during oocyte activation are species specific, and they can be classified in two modalities based on the pattern defined by the Ca2+ signature: a single Ca2+ transient (e.g. amphibians) or repetitive Ca2+ transients called Ca2+ oscillations (e.g. mammals). Interestingly, assisted oocyte activation (AOA) methods have highlighted the ability of mammalian oocytes to respond to single Ca2+ transients with normal embryonic development. In this regard, there is evidence supporting that cellular events during the process of oocyte activation are initiated by different number of Ca2+ oscillations. Moreover, it was proposed that oocyte activation and subsequent embryonic development are dependent on the total summation of the Ca2+ peaks, rather than to a specific frequency pattern of Ca2+ oscillations. The present review aims to demonstrate the complexity of mammalian oocyte activation by describing the series of Ca2+-linked physiological events involved in mediating the egg-to-embryo transition. Furthermore, mechanisms of AOA and the limitations and benefits associated with the application of different activation agents are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minerva Ferrer-Buitrago
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST)Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Davina Bonte
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST)Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Petra De Sutter
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST)Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Physiology GroupDepartment of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Björn Heindryckx
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST)Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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21
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Xu YR, Yang WX. Calcium influx and sperm-evoked calcium responses during oocyte maturation and egg activation. Oncotarget 2017; 8:89375-89390. [PMID: 29179526 PMCID: PMC5687696 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.19679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Under the guidance and regulation of hormone signaling, large majority of mammalian oocytes go through twice cell cycle arrest-resumption prior to the fertilized egg splits: oocyte maturation and egg activation. Cytosolic free calcium elevations and endoplasmic reticulum calcium store alternations are actively involved in triggering the complex machineries and events during oogenesis. Among these, calcium influx had been implicated in the replenishment of endoplasmic reticulum store during oocyte maturation and calcium oscillation during egg activation. This process also drove successful fertilization and early embryo development. Store-operated Ca2+ entry, acts as the principal force of calcium influx, is composed of STIM1 and Orai1 on the plasma membrane. Besides, transient receptor potential channels also participate in the process of calcium inwards. In this review, we summarize the recent researches on the spatial-temporal distribution of store-operated calcium entry components and transient receptor potential channels. Questions about how these channels play function for calcium influx and what impacts these channels have on oocytes are discussed. At the time of sperm-egg fusion, sperm-specific factor(s) diffuse and enable eggs to mount intracellular calcium oscillations. In this review, we also focus on the basic knowledge and the modes of action of the potential sperm factor phospholipase C zeta, as well as the downstream receptor, type 1 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor. From the achievement in the previous several decades, it is easy to find that there are too many doubtful points in the field that need researchers take into consideration and take action in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Ru Xu
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wan-Xi Yang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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22
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Cui J, Xie X. Non-coding RNAs: emerging regulatory factors in the derivation and differentiation of mammalian parthenogenetic embryonic stem cells. Cell Biol Int 2017; 41:476-483. [PMID: 28220611 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.10751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Parthenogenetic embryonic stem cells (PESCs) are ESCs derived from early parthenogenetic embryos. Haploid PESCs, containing haploid DNA, originate from a single sperm or occyte, while, diploid PESCs originate from two fused occytes. Most PESC lines used so far are diploid. PESCs exhibit representative pluripotent stem cell features, such as the capacity for self-renewal and the pariticular molecular signatures. Whereas, PESCs display distinctive properties, such as differential regulation of X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) and divergent monitor of genes involved in multiple biological processes. PESCs are considered promising in the regeneration medicine and developmental biology. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), especially miRNAs and lncRNAs, have garnered increasing attention over the past 2 decades. They are now known to be involved in almost all cellular processes due to their full-range regulation of gene expression. Numerous studies have indicated that embryonic stem cells (ESCs) displayed distinct signatures of ncRNA genes, which play key roles in the pluripotency and self renewal of ESCs. However, the expression pattern of ncRNAs in PESCs and their roles in the derivation and differentiation of PESCs were rarely reported. In this paper, we reviewed recent research on the derivation and differentiation of PESCs and describe the emerging role of ncRNAs in these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihong Cui
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China (Northwest University), Ministry of Education, Xi'an, 710069, China.,College of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China
| | - Xin Xie
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China (Northwest University), Ministry of Education, Xi'an, 710069, China.,College of Life Science, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710069, China.,Institute for Integrated Medical Information (IIMI), Xi'an, 710018, China
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23
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Bernhardt ML, Padilla-Banks E, Stein P, Zhang Y, Williams CJ. Store-operated Ca 2+ entry is not required for fertilization-induced Ca 2+ signaling in mouse eggs. Cell Calcium 2017; 65:63-72. [PMID: 28222911 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2017.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Revised: 02/07/2017] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Repetitive oscillations in cytoplasmic Ca2+ due to periodic Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) drive mammalian embryo development following fertilization. Influx of extracellular Ca2+ to support the refilling of ER stores is required for sustained Ca2+ oscillations, but the mechanisms underlying this Ca2+ influx are controversial. Although store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) is an appealing candidate mechanism, several groups have arrived at contradictory conclusions regarding the importance of SOCE in oocytes and eggs. To definitively address this question, Ca2+ influx was assessed in oocytes and eggs lacking the major components of SOCE, the ER Ca2+ sensor STIM proteins, and the plasma membrane Ca2+ channel ORAI1. We generated oocyte-specific conditional knockout (cKO) mice for Stim1 and Stim2, and also generated Stim1/2 double cKO mice. Females lacking one or both STIM proteins were fertile and their ovulated eggs displayed normal patterns of Ca2+ oscillations following fertilization. In addition, no impairment was observed in ER Ca2+ stores or Ca2+ influx following store depletion. Similar studies were performed on eggs from mice globally lacking ORAI1; no abnormalities were observed. Furthermore, spontaneous Ca2+ influx was normal in oocytes from Stim1/2 cKO and ORAI1-null mice. Finally, we tested if TRPM7-like channels could support spontaneous Ca2+ influx, and found that it was largely prevented by NS8593, a TRPM7-specific inhibitor. Fertilization-induced Ca2+ oscillations were also impaired by NS8593. Combined, these data robustly show that SOCE is not required to support appropriate Ca2+ signaling in mouse oocytes and eggs, and that TRPM7-like channels may contribute to Ca2+ influx that was previously attributed to SOCE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miranda L Bernhardt
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Elizabeth Padilla-Banks
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Paula Stein
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Yingpei Zhang
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Carmen J Williams
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
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24
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Yeste M, Jones C, Amdani SN, Coward K. Oocyte Activation and Fertilisation: Crucial Contributors from the Sperm and Oocyte. Results Probl Cell Differ 2017; 59:213-239. [PMID: 28247051 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-44820-6_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
This chapter intends to summarise the importance of sperm- and oocyte-derived factors in the processes of sperm-oocyte binding and oocyte activation. First, we describe the initial interaction between sperm and the zona pellucida, with particular regard to acrosome exocytosis. We then describe how sperm and oocyte membranes fuse, with special reference to the discovery of the sperm protein IZUMO1 and its interaction with the oocyte membrane receptor JUNO. We then focus specifically upon oocyte activation, the fundamental process by which the oocyte is alleviated from metaphase II arrest by a sperm-soluble factor. The identity of this sperm factor has been the source of much debate recently, although mounting evidence, from several different laboratories, provides strong support for phospholipase C ζ (PLCζ), a sperm-specific phospholipase. Herein, we discuss the evidence in support of PLCζ and evaluate the potential role of other candidate proteins, such as post-acrosomal WW-binding domain protein (PAWP/WBP2NL). Since the cascade of downstream events triggered by the sperm-borne oocyte activation factor heavily relies upon specialised cellular machinery within the oocyte, we also discuss the critical role of oocyte-borne factors, such as the inositol trisphosphate receptor (IP3R), protein kinase C (PKC), store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) and calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), during the process of oocyte activation. In order to place the implications of these various factors and processes into a clinical context, we proceed to describe their potential association with oocyte activation failure and discuss how clinical techniques such as the in vitro maturation of oocytes may affect oocyte activation ability. Finally, we contemplate the role of artificial oocyte activating agents in the clinical rescue of oocyte activation deficiency and discuss options for more endogenous alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Yeste
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, C/ Maria Aurèlia Campany, 69, Campus Montilivi, E-17071, Girona, Spain. .,Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, UK.
| | - Celine Jones
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, UK
| | - Siti Nornadhirah Amdani
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, UK
| | - Kevin Coward
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, UK
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25
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Carvacho I, Ardestani G, Lee HC, McGarvey K, Fissore RA, Lykke-Hartmann K. TRPM7-like channels are functionally expressed in oocytes and modulate post-fertilization embryo development in mouse. Sci Rep 2016; 6:34236. [PMID: 27681336 PMCID: PMC5041074 DOI: 10.1038/srep34236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) channels are a family of cationic ion channels widely distributed in mammalian tissues. In general, the global genetic disruption of individual TRP channels result in phenotypes associated with impairment of a particular tissue and/or organ function. An exception is the genetic ablation of the TRP channel TRPM7, which results in early embryonic lethality. Nevertheless, the function of TRPM7 in oocytes, eggs and pre-implantation embryos remains unknown. Here, we described an outward rectifying non-selective current mediated by a TRP ion channel in immature oocytes (germinal vesicle stage), matured oocytes (metaphase II eggs) and 2-cell stage embryos. The current is activated by specific agonists and inhibited by distinct blockers consistent with the functional expression of TRPM7 channels. We demonstrated that the TRPM7-like channels are homo-tetramers and their activation mediates calcium influx in oocytes and eggs, which is fundamental to support fertilization and egg activation. Lastly, we showed that pharmacological inhibition of the channel function delays pre-implantation embryo development and reduces progression to the blastocyst stage. Our data demonstrate functional expression of TRPM7-like channels in mouse oocytes, eggs and embryos that may play an essential role in the initiation of embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Carvacho
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.,Centre for Membrane Pumps in Cells and Disease-PUMPKIN, Danish National Research Foundation, Aarhus University, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.,Department of Biology and Chemistry, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Universidad Católica del Maule, 3480112 Talca, Chile
| | - Goli Ardestani
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Hoi Chang Lee
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Kaitlyn McGarvey
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Rafael A Fissore
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Karin Lykke-Hartmann
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.,Centre for Membrane Pumps in Cells and Disease-PUMPKIN, Danish National Research Foundation, Aarhus University, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.,Aarhus Institute of Advanced Studies (AIAS), Aarhus University, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
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26
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Abstract
Ca
2+ oscillations, a widespread mode of cell signaling, were reported in non-excitable cells for the first time more than 25 years ago. Their fundamental mechanism, based on the periodic Ca
2+ exchange between the endoplasmic reticulum and the cytoplasm, has been well characterized. However, how the kinetics of cytosolic Ca
2+ changes are related to the extent of a physiological response remains poorly understood. Here, we review data suggesting that the downstream targets of Ca
2+ are controlled not only by the frequency of Ca
2+ oscillations but also by the detailed characteristics of the oscillations, such as their duration, shape, or baseline level. Involvement of non-endoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+ stores, mainly mitochondria and the extracellular medium, participates in this fine tuning of Ca
2+ oscillations. The main characteristics of the Ca
2+ exchange fluxes with these compartments are also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geneviève Dupont
- Unité de Chronobiologie Théorique, Faculté des Sciences, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Laurent Combettes
- Interactions Cellulaires et Physiopathologie Hépatique, UMR-S 1174, Université Paris Sud, Orsay, France
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27
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Haverfield J, Nakagawa S, Love D, Tsichlaki E, Nomikos M, Lai FA, Swann K, FitzHarris G. Ca(2+) dynamics in oocytes from naturally-aged mice. Sci Rep 2016; 6:19357. [PMID: 26785810 PMCID: PMC4726220 DOI: 10.1038/srep19357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 12/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability of human metaphase-II arrested eggs to activate following fertilisation declines with advancing maternal age. Egg activation is triggered by repetitive increases in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in the ooplasm as a result of sperm-egg fusion. We therefore hypothesised that eggs from older females feature a reduced ability to mount appropriate Ca2+ responses at fertilisation. To test this hypothesis we performed the first examination of Ca2+ dynamics in eggs from young and naturally-aged mice. Strikingly, we find that Ca2+ stores and resting [Ca2+]i are unchanged with age. Although eggs from aged mice feature a reduced ability to replenish intracellular Ca2+ stores following depletion, this difference had no effect on the duration, number, or amplitude of Ca2+ oscillations following intracytoplasmic sperm injection or expression of phospholipase C zeta. In contrast, we describe a substantial reduction in the frequency and duration of oscillations in aged eggs upon parthenogenetic activation with SrCl2. We conclude that the ability to mount and respond to an appropriate Ca2+ signal at fertilisation is largely unchanged by advancing maternal age, but subtle changes in Ca2+ handling occur that may have more substantial impacts upon commonly used means of parthenogenetic activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna Haverfield
- Centre Recherche Centre Hospitalier Université de Montréal, Montreal, Québec, Canada, H2X 0A9.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada, H3T 1J4
| | - Shoma Nakagawa
- Centre Recherche Centre Hospitalier Université de Montréal, Montreal, Québec, Canada, H2X 0A9
| | - Daniel Love
- Institute of Molecular and Experimental Medicine, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, UK, CF14 4XN
| | - Elina Tsichlaki
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, UK, WC1E 6BT
| | - Michail Nomikos
- Institute of Molecular and Experimental Medicine, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, UK, CF14 4XN
| | - F Anthony Lai
- Institute of Molecular and Experimental Medicine, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, UK, CF14 4XN
| | - Karl Swann
- Institute of Molecular and Experimental Medicine, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Heath Park, UK, CF14 4XN
| | - Greg FitzHarris
- Centre Recherche Centre Hospitalier Université de Montréal, Montreal, Québec, Canada, H2X 0A9.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada, H3T 1J4.,Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, UK, WC1E 6BT
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28
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Lee HC, Yoon SY, Lykke-Hartmann K, Fissore RA, Carvacho I. TRPV3 channels mediate Ca2+ influx induced by 2-APB in mouse eggs. Cell Calcium 2016; 59:21-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2015.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2015] [Revised: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 12/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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29
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Liu C, Wu GQ, Fu XW, Mo XH, Zhao LH, Hu HM, Zhu SE, Hou YP. The Extracellular Calcium-Sensing Receptor (CASR) Regulates Gonadotropins-Induced Meiotic Maturation of Porcine Oocytes. Biol Reprod 2015; 93:131. [PMID: 26490840 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.128579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2015] [Accepted: 10/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropins and epidermal growth factor (EGF) play crucial roles in promoting oocyte maturation. The regulatory network downstream of these key factors is not well understood. The present study was designed to investigate the role of the calcium-sensing receptor (CASR) in porcine oocyte in vitro maturation. CASR expression was up-regulated in oocytes matured in gonadotropin-containing medium. Cortical distribution of CASR was enhanced with gonadotropins but not EGF. Supplementation of a CASR agonist (NPS R-568) in the gonadotropin (FSH and/or LH)-containing maturation medium significantly enhanced oocyte nuclear maturation. Addition of NPS2390, a CASR antagonist, compromised oocyte nuclear maturation. Furthermore, increased cortical distribution and decreased expression of CASR was observed after the NPS R-568 treatment. Oocytes treated with NPS R-568 had higher concentration of CYCLIN B1, decreased reactive oxygen species, and increased glutathione levels, indicative of advanced cytoplasmic maturation. In contrast, NPS2390 treatment compromised oocyte cytoplasmic maturation. A higher blastocyst formation rate after parthenogenetic activation was observed when oocytes were matured in the presence of the CASR agonist, NPS R-568. MAPK3/1 phosphorylation was increased during in vitro maturation and after NPS R-568 treatment, and decreased following CASR antagonist supplementation. Taken together, our data showed that the CASR is a gonadotropin-regulated factor that promotes porcine oocyte maturation in a MAPK-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Guo-Quan Wu
- Yunnan Animal Science and Veterinary Institute, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Xiang-Wei Fu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Xian-Hong Mo
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Li-Hong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Hong-Mei Hu
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Shi-En Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yun-Peng Hou
- State Key Laboratory for Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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30
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Bernhardt ML, Zhang Y, Erxleben CF, Padilla-Banks E, McDonough CE, Miao YL, Armstrong DL, Williams CJ. CaV3.2 T-type channels mediate Ca²⁺ entry during oocyte maturation and following fertilization. J Cell Sci 2015; 128:4442-52. [PMID: 26483387 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.180026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 10/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Initiation of mouse embryonic development depends upon a series of fertilization-induced rises in intracellular Ca(2+). Complete egg activation requires influx of extracellular Ca(2+); however, the channels that mediate this influx remain unknown. Here, we tested whether the α1 subunit of the T-type channel CaV3.2, encoded by Cacna1h, mediates Ca(2+) entry into oocytes. We show that mouse eggs express a robust voltage-activated Ca(2+) current that is completely absent in Cacna1h(-/-) eggs. Cacna1h(-/-) females have reduced litter sizes, and careful analysis of Ca(2+) oscillation patterns in Cacna1h(-/-) eggs following in vitro fertilization (IVF) revealed reductions in first transient length and oscillation persistence. Total and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca(2+) stores were also reduced in Cacna1h(-/-) eggs. Pharmacological inhibition of CaV3.2 in wild-type CF-1 strain eggs using mibefradil or pimozide reduced Ca(2+) store accumulation during oocyte maturation and reduced Ca(2+) oscillation persistence, frequency and number following IVF. Overall, these data show that CaV3.2 T-type channels have prev8iously unrecognized roles in supporting the meiotic-maturation-associated increase in ER Ca(2+) stores and mediating Ca(2+) influx required for the activation of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miranda L Bernhardt
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Yingpei Zhang
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Christian F Erxleben
- Neurobiology Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Elizabeth Padilla-Banks
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Caitlin E McDonough
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Yi-Liang Miao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China
| | - David L Armstrong
- Neurobiology Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Carmen J Williams
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
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31
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Yeste M, Jones C, Amdani SN, Patel S, Coward K. Oocyte activation deficiency: a role for an oocyte contribution? Hum Reprod Update 2015; 22:23-47. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmv040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Accepted: 08/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
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32
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Santella L, Limatola N, Chun JT. Calcium and actin in the saga of awakening oocytes. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2015; 460:104-13. [PMID: 25998739 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2015.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Accepted: 03/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The interaction of the spermatozoon with the egg at fertilization remains one of the most fascinating mysteries of life. Much of our scientific knowledge on fertilization comes from studies on sea urchin and starfish, which provide plenty of gametes. Large and transparent, these eggs have served as excellent model systems for studying egg activation and embryo development in seawater, a plain natural medium. Starfish oocytes allow the study of the cortical, cytoplasmic and nuclear changes during the meiotic maturation process, which can also be triggered in vitro by hormonal stimulation. These morphological and biochemical changes ensure successful fertilization of the eggs at the first metaphase. On the other hand, sea urchin eggs are fertilized after the completion of meiosis, and are particularly suitable for the study of sperm-egg interaction, early events of egg activation, and embryonic development, as a large number of mature eggs can be fertilized synchronously. Starfish and sea urchin eggs undergo abrupt changes in the cytoskeleton and ion fluxes in response to the fertilizing spermatozoon. The plasma membrane and cortex of an egg thus represent "excitable media" that quickly respond to the stimulus with the Ca(2+) swings and structural changes. In this article, we review some of the key findings on the rapid dynamic rearrangements of the actin cytoskeleton in the oocyte/egg cortex upon hormonal or sperm stimulation and their roles in the modulation of the Ca(2+) signals and in the control of monospermic fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigia Santella
- Biology and Evolution of Marine Organisms, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale 1, Napoli, I-80121, Italy.
| | - Nunzia Limatola
- Biology and Evolution of Marine Organisms, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale 1, Napoli, I-80121, Italy
| | - Jong T Chun
- Biology and Evolution of Marine Organisms, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale 1, Napoli, I-80121, Italy
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33
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Wang C, Zhang L, Jaeger LA, Machaty Z. Store-Operated Ca2+ Entry Sustains the Fertilization Ca2+ Signal in Pig Eggs. Biol Reprod 2015; 93:25. [PMID: 26063872 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.126151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Accepted: 06/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of store-operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE) in the maintenance of sperm-induced Ca(2+) oscillations was investigated in porcine eggs. We found that 10 μM gadolinium (Gd(3+)), which is known to inhibit SOCE, blocked Ca(2+) entry that was triggered by thapsigargin-induced store depletion and also caused an abrupt cessation of the fertilization Ca(2+) signal. In a similar manner 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)pyrazole 2 (20 μM), and tetrapandin-2 (10 μM), potent SOCE inhibitors, also blocked thapsigargin-stimulated Ca(2+) entry and disrupted the Ca(2+) oscillations after sperm-egg fusion. The downregulation of Stim1 or Orai1 in the eggs did not alter the Ca(2+) content of the intracellular stores, whereas co-overexpression of these proteins led to the generation of irregular Ca(2+) transients after fertilization that stopped prematurely. We also found that thapsigargin completely emptied the endoplasmic reticulum, and that the series of Ca(2+) transients stopped abruptly after the addition of thapsigargin to the fertilized eggs, indicating that the proper reloading of the intracellular stores is a prerequisite for the maintenance of the Ca(2+) oscillations. These data strengthen our previous findings that in porcine eggs SOCE is a major signaling cascade that is responsible for sustaining the repetitive Ca(2+) signal at fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunmin Wang
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
| | - Laurie A Jaeger
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
| | - Zoltan Machaty
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
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34
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Serrano-Flores B, Garay E, Vázquez-Cuevas FG, Arellano RO. Differential role of STIM1 and STIM2 during transient inward (T in) current generation and the maturation process in the Xenopus oocyte. BMC PHYSIOLOGY 2014; 14:9. [PMID: 25399338 PMCID: PMC4236480 DOI: 10.1186/s12899-014-0009-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2014] [Accepted: 10/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Xenopus oocyte is a useful cell model to study Ca2+ homeostasis and cell cycle regulation, two highly interrelated processes. Here, we used antisense oligonucleotides to investigate the role in the oocyte of stromal interaction molecule (STIM) proteins that are fundamental elements of the store-operated calcium-entry (SOCE) phenomenon, as they are both sensors for Ca2+ concentration in the intracellular reservoirs as well as activators of the membrane channels that allow Ca2+ influx. RESULTS Endogenous STIM1 and STIM2 expression was demonstrated, and their synthesis was knocked down 48-72 h after injecting oocytes with specific antisense sequences. Selective elimination of their mRNA and protein expression was confirmed by PCR and Western blot analysis, and we then evaluated the effect of their absence on two endogenous responses: the opening of SOC channels elicited by G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR)-activated Ca2+ release, and the process of maturation stimulated by progesterone. Activation of SOC channels was monitored electrically by measuring the T in response, a Ca2+-influx-dependent Cl- current, while maturation was assessed by germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) scoring and electrophysiology. CONCLUSIONS It was found that STIM2, but not STIM1, was essential in both responses, and T in currents and GVBD were strongly reduced or eliminated in cells devoid of STIM2; STIM1 knockdown had no effect on the maturation process, but it reduced the T in response by 15 to 70%. Thus, the endogenous SOCE response in Xenopus oocytes depended mainly on STIM2, and its expression was necessary for entry into meiosis induced by progesterone.
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35
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Carvacho I, Lee HC, Fissore RA, Clapham DE. TRPV3 channels mediate strontium-induced mouse-egg activation. Cell Rep 2013; 5:1375-86. [PMID: 24316078 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2013.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2013] [Revised: 10/02/2013] [Accepted: 11/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, calcium influx is required for oocyte maturation and egg activation. The molecular identities of the calcium-permeant channels that underlie the initiation of embryonic development are not established. Here, we describe a transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channel current activated by TRP agonists that is absent in TrpV3(-/-) eggs. TRPV3 current is differentially expressed during oocyte maturation, reaching a peak of maximum density and activity at metaphase of meiosis II (MII), the stage of fertilization. Selective activation of TRPV3 channels provokes egg activation by mediating massive calcium entry. Widely used to activate eggs, strontium application is known to yield normal offspring in combination with somatic cell nuclear transfer. We show that TRPV3 is required for strontium influx, because TrpV3(-/-) eggs failed to conduct Sr(2+) or undergo strontium-induced activation. We propose that TRPV3 is a major mediator of calcium influx in mouse eggs and is a putative target for artificial egg activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Carvacho
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Cardiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Hoi Chang Lee
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Rafael A Fissore
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - David E Clapham
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Department of Cardiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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36
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Wakai T, Zhang N, Vangheluwe P, Fissore RA. Regulation of endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) oscillations in mammalian eggs. J Cell Sci 2013; 126:5714-24. [PMID: 24101727 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.136549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Changes in the intracellular concentration of free calcium ([Ca(2+)]i) regulate diverse cellular processes including fertilization. In mammalian eggs, the [Ca(2+)]i changes induced by the sperm unfold in a pattern of periodical rises, also known as [Ca(2+)]i oscillations. The source of Ca(2+) during oscillations is the endoplasmic reticulum ([Ca(2+)]ER), but it is presently unknown how [Ca(2+)]ER is regulated. Here, we show using mouse eggs that [Ca(2+)]i oscillations induced by a variety of agonists, including PLCζ, SrCl2 and thimerosal, provoke simultaneous but opposite changes in [Ca(2+)]ER and cause differential effects on the refilling and overall load of [Ca(2+)]ER. We also found that Ca(2+) influx is required to refill [Ca(2+)]ER, because the loss of [Ca(2+)]ER was accelerated in medium devoid of Ca(2+). Pharmacological inactivation of the function of the mitochondria and of the Ca(2+)-ATPase pumps PMCA and SERCA altered the pattern of oscillations and abruptly reduced [Ca(2+)]ER, especially after inactivation of mitochondria and SERCA functions. We also examined the expression of SERCA2b protein and found that it was expressed throughout oocyte maturation and attained a conspicuous cortical cluster organization in mature eggs. We show that its overexpression reduces the duration of inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate-induced [Ca(2+)]i rises, promotes initiation of oscillations and enhances refilling of [Ca(2+)]ER. Collectively, our results provide novel insights on the regulation of [Ca(2+)]ER oscillations, which underlie the unique Ca(2+)-signalling system that activates the developmental program in mammalian eggs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuya Wakai
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 661 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
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