NAD+ deficiency and mitochondrial dysfunction in granulosa cells of women with polycystic ovary syndrome‡

Nampt/SIRT2/LDHA pathway-mediated lactate production regulates follicular dysplasia in polycystic ovary syndrome

Decreased nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) content has been shown to contribute to metabolic dysfunction during aging, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, the effect of NAD+ on ovulatory dysfunction in PCOS by regulating glycolysis has not been reported. Based on the observations of granulosa cells (GCs) transcriptome data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, the signal pathways including glycolysis and nicotinate-nicotinamide metabolism were significantly enriched, and most genes of the above pathway like LDHA and SIRT2 were down-regulated in PCOS patients. Therefore, the PCOS rat model was established by combining letrozole with a high-fat diet (HFD), we demonstrate that in vivo supplementation of nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) significantly improves the ovulatory dysfunction by facilitating the follicular development, promoting luteal formation, as well the fertility in PCOS rats. Furthermore, target energy metabolomics and transcriptome results showed that NMN supplementation ameliorates the lactate production by activating glycolytic process in the ovary. In vitro, when NAD+ synthesis and SIRT2 expression were inhibited, lactate content in KGN cells was decreased and LDHA expression was significantly inhibited. We confirmed that FK866 can enhance the acetylation of LDHA on 293T cells by Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP) assay. We also observed that inhibition of NAD+ synthesis can reduce the activity and increase the apoptosis of KGN cells. Overall, these benefits of NMN were elucidated and the Nampt/SIRT2/LDHA pathway mediated lactate production in granulosa cells played an important role in the improvement of follicular development disorders in PCOS. This study will provide experimental evidence for the clinical application of NMN in the treatment of PCOS in the future.

In pre-clinical study fetal hypoxia caused autophagy and mitochondrial impairment in ovary granulosa cells mitigated by melatonin supplement

INTRODUCTION

Fetal hypoxia has long-term effects on postnatal reproductive functions and the mitochondrial impairments of ovarian granulosa cells may be one of the causes. Melatonin applied to mitigate mitochondrial dysfunction and autophagy in mammalian cells has been reported. However, the potential mechanisms by which fetal hypoxia damages reproductive function in neonatal female mice and the melatonin effects on this problem remain unclear.

OBJECTIVES

This research aimed to explore the mechanism that fetal hypoxia damages reproductive function in neonatal female mice and attempt to improve the reproductive function by treating with melatonin in vivo and in vitro.

METHODS

We established a fetal hypoxia model and confirmed that fetal hypoxia affects ovarian function by inducing GC excessive autophagy. Transcriptomic analysis, gene interference, cell immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry and western blot were conducted to explore and verify the underlying mechanisms in mice GCs and KGN cells. Finally, melatonin treatment was executed on hypoxia-treated mice GCs and KGN cells and melatonin injection to fetal-hypoxia-treated mice to determine its effect.

RESULTS

The results of in vitro experiments found that fetal hypoxia led to mitochondrial dysfunction in ovarian GCs causing autophagic cell death. And the PI3K/Akt/FoxO pathway mediated the occurrence of this process by transcriptome analysis of ovarian GCs from normal and fetal hypoxia mice, which was further verified in mice GCs and KGN cells. Additionally, melatonin administration prevented autophagic injuries and mitochondrial impairments in hypoxia-treated mice GCs and KGN cells. Meanwhile, in vivo experiments by melatonin injection ameliorated oxidative stress of ovary in fetal-hypoxia-treated mice and improved their low fertility.

CONCLUSION

Our data found that fetal hypoxia causes ovarian GCs excessive autophagy leading to low fertility in neonatal female mice and mitigated by melatonin. These results provide a potential therapy for hypoxic stress-related reproductive disorders.

YTHDF2 regulates MSS51 expression contributing to mitochondria dysfunction of granulosa cells in polycystic ovarian syndrome patients

RESEARCH QUESTION

Granulosa cells (GCs) dysfunction plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It is reported that YTH domain-containing family protein 2 (YTHDF2) is upregulated in mural GCs of PCOS patients. What effect does the differential expression of YTHDF2 have in PCOS patients?

DESIGN

Mural GCs and cumulus GCs from 15 patients with PCOS and 15 ovulatory controls and 4 cases of pathological sections in each group were collected. Real-time PCR, Western Blot, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence experiments were conducted to detect gene and protein expression. RNA immunoprecipitation assay was performed to evaluate the binding relationship between YTHDF2 and MSS51. Mitochondrial morphology, cellular ATP and ROS levels and glycolysis-related gene expression were detected after YTHDF2 overexpression or MSS51 inhibition.

RESULTS

In the present study, we found that YTHDF2 was upregulated in GCs of PCOS patients while MSS51 was downregulated. YTHDF2 protein can bind to MSS51 mRNA and affect MSS51 expression. The reduction of MSS51 expression or the increase in YTHDF2 expression can lead to mitochondrial damage, reduced ATP levels, increased ROS levels and reduced expression of LDHA, PFKP and PKM.

CONCLUSIONS

YTHDF2 may regulate the expression of MSS51, affecting the structure and function of mitochondria in GCs and interfering with cellular glycolysis, which may disturb the normal biological processes of GCs and follicle development in PCOS patients.

Metabolomic Analysis of Follicular Fluid in Normal-Weight Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to examine the differential variations in the metabolic composition of follicular fluid (FF) among normal-weight patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and controls and to identify potential biomarkers that may offer insights into the early identification and management of these patients.

METHODS

We collected FF samples from 45 normal-weight women with PCOS and 36 normal-weight controls without PCOS who were undergoing in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer. An untargeted metabolomic study of collected FF from infertile women was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem spectrometry (LC-MS). The tendency of the two groups to separate was demonstrated through multivariate analysis. Univariate analysis and variable importance in projection were used to screen out differential metabolites. Metabolic pathway analysis was conducted using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and a diagnostic model was established using the random forest algorithm.

RESULTS

The metabolomics analysis revealed an increase in the expression of 23 metabolites and a decrease in that of 10 metabolites in the FF of normal-weight women with PCOS. According to the KEGG pathway analysis, these differential metabolites primarily participated in the metabolism of glycerophospholipids and the biosynthesis of steroid hormones. Based on the biomarker combination of the top 10 metabolites, the area under the curve value was 0.805. The concentrations of prostaglandin E2 in the FF of individuals with PCOS exhibited an inverse association with the proportion of high-quality embryos (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our research identified a distinct metabolic profile of the FF from normal-weight women with PCOS. The results offer a broader comprehension of the pathogenesis and advancement of PCOS, and the detected differential metabolites could be potential biomarkers and targets for the treatment of PCOS.

Exploring nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide precursors across biosynthesis pathways: Unraveling their role in the ovary

Natural Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) precursors have attracted much attention due to their positive effects in promoting ovarian health. However, their target tissue, synthesis efficiency, advantages, and disadvantages are still unclear. This review summarizes the distribution of NAD+ at the tissue, cellular and subcellular levels, discusses its biosynthetic pathways and the latest findings in ovary, include: (1) NAD+ plays distinct roles both intracellularly and extracellularly, adapting its distribution in response to requirements. (2) Different precursors differs in target tissues, synthetic efficiency, biological utilization, and adverse effects. Importantly: tryptophan is primarily utilized in the liver and kidneys, posing metabolic risks in excess; nicotinamide (NAM) is indispensable for maintaining NAD+ levels; nicotinic acid (NA) constructs a crucial bridge between intestinal microbiota and the host with diverse functions; nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) increase NAD+ systemically and can be influenced by delivery route, tissue specificity, and transport efficiency. (3) The biosynthetic pathways of NAD+ are intricately intertwined. They provide multiple sources and techniques for NAD+ synthesis, thereby reducing the dependence on a single molecule to maintain cellular NAD+ levels. However, an excess of a specific precursor potentially influencing other pathways. In addition, Protein expression analysis suggest that ovarian tissues may preferentially utilize NAM and NMN. These findings summarize the specific roles and potential of NAD+ precursors in enhancing ovarian health. Future research should delve into the molecular mechanisms and intervention strategies of different precursors, aiming to achieve personalized prevention or treatment of ovarian diseases, and reveal their clinical application value.

Investigating the Role of Inflammatory Response in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Using Integrated RNA-Seq Analysis

Background

An important factor in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is chronic low-grade inflammation. However, the exact pathophysiology of PCOS is currently unknown, which makes clinical diagnosis and the development of effective treatments more difficult. We aimed to investigate the role of the inflammatory response in initiating and progressing PCOS.

Methods

13 control granulosa cell samples and 15 granulosa cell samples from patients with PCOS were obtained from the GSE102293, GSE34526, and GSE5850 datasets. The gene set variation analysis (GSVA) method was used to calculate the inflammatory response score. Subsequently, the genes associated with inflammation in the hub were identified using differential expression analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). The findings were confirmed by analysis of independent datasets and examination of clinical samples by qRT-PCR analysis. A consensus cluster analysis was conducted to categorize the PCOS samples into subtypes related to inflammation. Functional enrichment and analysis of immune cell infiltration were conducted to explore the potential mechanisms involved. Additionally, the CMap database was utilized to predict potential drugs, and the results were confirmed through molecular docking.

Results

During the training cohort analysis, we identified five distinct genes (TGFBR2, ICAM3, WIPF1, SLC11A1, and NCF2) that could serve as potential diagnostic markers for PCOS. The expression levels of these genes were confirmed through validation in both the test set and clinical samples. In training cohort, two distinct inflammatory patterns (C1 and C2) were identified, and the C2 subtype exhibited activated immune- and inflammation-related pathways. Esmolol was shown to have potential as a drug to treat PCOS and it showed good results for molecular binding at TGFBR2, ICAM3, WIPF1, SLC11A1, and NCF2 proteins.

Conclusion

Five diagnostic biomarkers and two inflammation-related molecular types associated with PCOS were identified, and esmolol was a potential drug for PCOS treatment. Our findings provided new diagnostic markers and potential small-molecule drugs for PCOS diagnosis and prevention.

Supplementation with NAD+ and its precursors: A rescue of female reproductive diseases

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is an essential coenzyme involved in many pathophysiological processes. Supplementation with NAD+ and its precursors has been demonstrated as an emerging therapeutic strategy for the diseases. NAD+ also plays an important role in the reproductive system. Here, we summarize the function of NAD+ in various reproductive diseases and review the application of NAD+ and its precursors in the preservation of reproductive capacity and the prevention of embryonic malformations. It is shown that NAD+ shows good promise as a therapeutic approach for saving reproductive capacity.

Mitophagy in mammalian follicle development and health

Mitophagy, the cellular process that removes damaged mitochondria, plays a crucial role in maintaining normal cell functions. It is deeply involved in the entire process of follicle development and is associated with various ovarian diseases. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of mitophagy regulation, emphasizing its role at different stages of follicular development. Additionally, the study illuminates the relationship between mitophagy and ovarian diseases, including ovary aging (OA), primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). A detailed understanding of mitophagy could reveal valuable insights and novel strategies for managing female ovarian reproductive health.

The Nrf2/ARE pathway as a potential target to ameliorate atrazine-induced endocrine disruption in granulosa cells

Atrazine (ATR) is widely used worldwide as a commercial herbicide, Diaminochlorotriazine (DACT) is the main metabolite of ATR in the organism. Both of them disrupt the production of steroids and induce abnormal reproductive development. The granulosa cells (GCs) are important for growth and reproduction of animals. However, the toxicity of ATR on the GCs of birds is not well clarified. To evaluate the effect of the environmental pollutant ATR on bird GCs. The quail GCs were allotted into 7 groups, C (The medium of M199), A20 (20 µM ATR), A100 (100 µM ATR), A250 (250 µM ATR), D20 (20 µM DACT), D100 (100 µM DACT) and D200 (200 µM DACT). The results demonstrated that ATR reduced the viability of GCs, disrupted mitochondrial structure (including mitochondrial cristae fragmentation and the mitochondrial morphology disappearance) and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential. Meanwhile, ATR interfered with the expression of key factors in the steroid synthesis pathway, inducing the secretion of the sex hormones E2 and P in GCs. which in turn induced apoptosis. Furthermore, the Nrf2/ARE pathway as a potential target to ameliorate ATR-induced endocrine disruption in GCs for proper reproductive functions. Our research provides a new perspective for understanding the effects of ATR on reproductive functions in birds.

Role of the mitophagy-apoptosis axis in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovarian syndrome

AIM

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder characterized by menstrual irregularities, androgen excess, and polycystic ovarian morphology, but its pathogenesis remains largely unknown. This review focuses on how androgen excess influences the molecular basis of energy metabolism, mitochondrial function, and mitophagy in granulosa cells and oocytes, summarizes our current understanding of the pathogenesis of PCOS, and discuss perspectives on future research directions.

METHODS

A search of PubMed and Google Scholar databases were used to identify relevant studies for this narrative literature review.

RESULTS

Female offspring born of pregnant animals exposed to androgens recapitulates the PCOS phenotype. Abnormal mitochondrial morphology, altered expression of genes related to glycolysis, mitochondrial biogenesis, fission/fusion dynamics, and mitophagy have been identified in PCOS patients and androgenic animal models. Androgen excess causes uncoupling of the electron transport chain and depletion of the cellular adenosine 5'-triphosphate pool, indicating further impairment of mitochondrial function. A shift toward mitochondrial fission restores mitochondrial quality control mechanisms. However, prolonged mitochondrial fission disrupts autophagy/mitophagy induction due to loss of compensatory reserve for mitochondrial biogenesis. Disruption of compensatory mechanisms that mediate the quality control switch from mitophagy to apoptosis may cause a disease phenotype. Furthermore, genetic predisposition, altered expression of genes related to glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, or a combination of these factors may also contribute to the development of PCOS.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, fetuses exposed to a hyperandrogenemic intrauterine environment may cause the PCOS phenotype possibly through disruption of the compensatory regulation of the mitophagy-apoptosis axis.

The association between triglyceride glucose-body Mass Index and in vitro fertilization outcomes in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a cohort study

BACKGROUND

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common reproductive disorder that frequently affects fertility. The TyG-BMI (Triglyceride glucose-body mass) index is a newly explored parameter that may be linked to reproductive results in individuals with PCOS. Nevertheless, its connection with outcomes in In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) procedures remains uncertain.

METHODS

This study included a total of 966 females who underwent IVF treatments for PCOS. At the baseline, the participants were categorized into four groups according to the quartiles of TyG-BMI measured prior to oocyte retrieval. Subsequently, the study compared the differences in clinical and laboratory outcomes among these four groups.

RESULTS

Patients in higher TyG-BMI quartiles exhibited a decreased number of retrieved oocytes, 2PN embryos, and available/high-quality embryos (P < 0.05 for Q1-Q4). Additionally, the multivariable regression analysis revealed that individuals in the top quartile of TyG-BMI had a lower count of accessible embryos (β = -0.224, P = 0.257) and a decreased number of high-quality embryos (β = -0.352, P = 0.028) in comparison to those in the lowest quartile. Nevertheless, there were no notable variances detected in the rates of pregnancy or live births among these quartiles. Furthermore, a linear correlation was noted between the TyG-BMI index and the quantity of accessible embryos (P-non-linear = 0.6, P-overall < 0.001), along with high-quality embryos (P-nonlinear = 0.026, P-overall = 0.006). In contrast, there was no notable linear correlation found between the TyG-BMI index and the available embryo rate (P-nonlinear = 0.60, P-overall = 0.8).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this research emphasize the notable correlation between TyG-BMI and IVF results in females diagnosed with PCOS. The interplay of insulin resistance and disorders of lipid metabolism may indeed play a pivotal role in influencing the assisted reproductive outcomes of patients with PCOS. Considering these findings, TyG-BMI proves to be a valuable indicator for exploring this potential association.

A Molecular Perspective and Role of NAD+ in Ovarian Aging

The decline in female fecundity is linked to advancing chronological age. The ovarian reserve diminishes in quantity and quality as women age, impacting reproductive efficiency and the aging process in the rest of the body. NAD+ is an essential coenzyme in cellular energy production, metabolism, cell signaling, and survival. It is involved in aging and is linked to various age-related conditions. Hallmarks associated with aging, diseases, and metabolic dysfunctions can significantly affect fertility by disturbing the delicate relationship between energy metabolism and female reproduction. Enzymes such as sirtuins, PARPs, and CD38 play essential roles in NAD+ biology, which actively consume NAD+ in their enzymatic activities. In recent years, NAD+ has gained much attention for its role in aging and age-related diseases like cancer, Alzheimer's, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders, highlighting its involvement in various pathophysiological processes. However, its impact on female reproduction is not well understood. This review aims to bridge this knowledge gap by comprehensively exploring the complex interplay between NAD+ biology and female reproductive aging and providing valuable information that could help develop plans to improve women's reproductive health and prevent fertility issues.

Acetate ameliorates ovarian mitochondrial dysfunction in letrozole-induced polycystic ovarian syndrome rat model by improving mitofusin-2

Androgen excess and metabolic abnormality largely contribute to the pathogenesis of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), which primarily precipitates ovarian dysfunction and infertility in reproductive-age women. Impaired mitochondrial function and epigenetic alteration have been linked to the development of PCOS. However, it is unknown whether acetate would exert a therapeutic effect on ovarian mitochondrial dysfunction in PCOS. Herein, the study hypothesized that acetate reverses ovarian mitochondrial dysfunction in experimental PCOS rat model, possibly through modulation of mitofusin-2 (MFn2). Eight-week-old female Wistar rats were randomized into four groups (n = 5). Induction of PCOS was performed by 1 mg/kg letrozole (p.o.), administered for 21 days. Thereafter, the rats were treated with acetate (200 mg/kg; p.o.) for 6 weeks. The PCOS rats demonstrated androgen excess, multiple ovarian cysts, elevated anti-mullerian hormone and leptin and decreased SHBG, adiponectin and 17-β estradiol with corresponding increase in ovarian transforming growth factor-β1. Additionally, inflammation (tumor growth factor and nuclear factor-kB), elevated caspase-6, decreased hypoxia-inducible factor-1α and elevated histone deacetylase-2 (HDAC2) were observed in the ovaries of PCOS rats, while mitochondrial abnormality with evidence of decreased adenosine triphosphate synthase and MFn2 was observed in rats with PCOS. Treatment with acetate reversed the alterations. The present results collectively suggest that acetate ameliorates ovarian mitochondrial abnormality, a beneficial effect that is accompanied by MFn2 with consequent normalization of reproductive-endocrine profile and ovarian function. Perhaps, the present data provide hope for PCOS individuals that suffer infertility.

The Role Played by Mitochondria in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) refers to an endocrine disorder syndrome that are correlated with multiple organs and systems. PCOS has an effect on women at all stages of their lives, and it has an incidence nearly ranging from 6% to 20% worldwide. Mitochondrial dysfunctions (e.g., oxidative stress, dynamic imbalance, and abnormal quality control system) have been identified in patients and animal models of PCOS, and the above processes may play a certain role in the development of PCOS and its associated complications. However, their specific pathogenic roles should be investigated in depth. In this review, recent studies on the mechanisms of action of mitochondrial dysfunction in PCOS and its associated clinical manifestations are summarized from the perspective of tissues and organs, and some studies on the treatment of the disease by improving mitochondrial function are reviewed to highlight key role of mitochondrial dysfunction in this syndrome.

Mechanisms of probiotic modulation of ovarian sex hormone production and metabolism: a review

Sex hormones play a pivotal role in the growth and development of the skeletal, neurological, and reproductive systems. In women, the dysregulation of sex hormones can result in various health complications such as acne, hirsutism, and irregular menstruation. One of the most prevalent diseases associated with excess androgens is polycystic ovary syndrome with a hyperandrogenic phenotype. Probiotics have shown the potential to enhance the secretion of ovarian sex hormones. However, the underlying mechanism of action remains unclear. Furthermore, comprehensive reviews detailing how probiotics modulate ovarian sex hormones are scarce. This review seeks to shed light on the potential mechanisms through which probiotics influence the production of ovarian sex hormones. The role of probiotics across various biological axes, including the gut-ovarian, gut-brain-ovarian, gut-liver-ovarian, gut-pancreas-ovarian, and gut-fat-ovarian axes, with a focus on the direct impact of probiotics on the ovaries via the gut and their effects on brain gonadotropins is discussed. It is also proposed herein that probiotics can significantly influence the onset, progression, and complications of ovarian sex hormone abnormalities. In addition, this review provides a theoretical basis for the therapeutic application of probiotics in managing sex hormone-related health conditions.

Trehalosemodulates OVRAS to improve oxidative stress and apoptosis in KGN cells and ovaries of PCOS mice

The etiology of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is complex and variable, and there is no exact cause or good treatment method. Most of the methods of hormones are used to temporarily meet the needs of patients. Experimental evidence has shown that trehalose has, anti-apoptotic, anti-oxidative, glucose-lowering, and insulin resistance effects. However, whether trehalose has a therapeutic effect on PCOS is unknown. It has been reported that the ovarian renin-angiotensin system (OVRAS) is involved in the development of PCOS, but it has not been fully elucidated. This study aims to explore the effect of trehalose on PCOS and elucidate the related OVRAS mechanism. We first observed that body weight, estrous cycle, ovarian follicles at all levels, glucose tolerance, serum hormones, and insulin resistance were improved by trehalose treatment in the PCOS mouse model. Moreover, trehalose treatment also ameliorated ovarian oxidative stress and apoptosis in PCOS mice, as determined by TUNNEL apoptosis staining, total SOD in ovarian homogenate, and WB assay. OVRAS mainly involves two classic pathways, namely the ACE/AngII/AT1R/AT2R, and ACE2 / Ang1-7/ MASR, Which play different functions. In PCOS mouse ovaries, we found that ACE/AngII/AT1R was up-regulated and ACE2/Ang1-7/MASR and AT2R were down-regulated by PCR and WB experiments, However, trehalose treatment changed its direction. In addition, we also found that trehalose ameliorated DHEA-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in KGN by PCR and WB experiments, mainly by down-regulating ACE/AngII/AT1R. Our study shows that trehalose improves symptoms of PCOS mainly by down-regulating ACE/AngII/AT1R, revealing a potential therapeutic target for PCOS.

The association between systemic immune-inflammation index and in vitro fertilization outcomes in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a cohort study

BACKGROUND

As a novel prognostic and inflammatory marker, the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) has come to the foreground in recent years. SII may be used as an indicator reflecting the progressive inflammatory process in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between SII and assisted reproductive outcomes in PCOS patients.

RESULTS

A total of 966 women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedure with PCOS were included in the study. The SII was calculated as platelet count (/L) × neutrophil count (/L)/lymphocyte count (/L). Participants were divided into four groups according to SII quartiles calculated at baseline, and the differences of clinical and laboratory outcomes between these four groups were compared. Moreover, a univariate linear regression model was used to evaluate the associations between SII and the outcomes. Patients in the highest SII quartile (Q4) had lower antral follicle count (AFC), estradiol (E2), and progesterone (P) levels on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) start compared with the lower three SII quartiles (Q1-Q3). Moreover, our analysis demonstrated that women in the lower SII quartiles had a higher rate of available embryos and blastocyst formation compared with those in the highest SII quartile. Logarithm of SII correlated negatively with available embryo rate, but not with number of available embryos. Additionally, the results of our multivariate logistic regression analyses indicated that the highest SII quartile was negatively associated with biochemical pregnancy rate (BPR), clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), live birth rate (LBR), and implantation rate (IR). A non-linear relationship between the SII and number of available embryos, with a negative relationship seen to the right of the inflection point was also found.

CONCLUSIONS

The interplay among thrombocytosis, inflammation, and immunity could influence assisted reproductive outcomes in PCOS patients. In this regard, SII may serve as a valuable marker for exploring potential correlations.

Interleukin-22 promotes proliferation and reverses LPS-induced apoptosis and steroidogenesis attenuation in human ovarian granulosa cells: implications for polycystic ovary syndrome pathogenesis

OBJECTIVE

Interleukin 22 (IL-22) plays a role in inflammatory diseases. However, whether IL-22 affects the function of ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) and its relationship with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)remains unclear.

METHODS

We investigated the level of IL-22 in human follicular fluid using ELISA. The expression and localization of the IL-22 receptor 1 (IL-22R1) in GCs were investigated by RT-PCR and immunofluorescence staining, respectively. The proliferation of KGN cells (human GCs line) was assessed by CCK-8 assay and EdU assay after treatment with recombinant human IL-22 (rhIL-22) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Apoptosis was assessed using flow cytometry. Apoptotic proteins and steroidogenic genes were detected by western blotting.

RESULTS

ELISA's results showed that compared with the control group, PCOS patients showed lower expression of IL-22 in follicular fluid. Immunofluorescence showed that IL-22R1 is expressed and localized in human granulosa cell membranes. IL-22 promoted cell proliferation and reversed LPS-induced inhibition of cell proliferation. IL-22 alone did not affect apoptotic or steroidogenic protein expression, however, it reversed LPS-induced apoptosis via downregulation of Bcl-2, upregulation of Bax and cleaved caspase-3, and restoration of LPS-downregulated StAR, CYP11A1, and CYP19A1 expression. Western blotting confirmed that IL-22 activated the JAK2/STAT3 signaling.

CONCLUSION

IL-22 promotes cell proliferation, inhibits apoptosis, and regulates KGN cell steroidogenesis confronted with LPS, and decreased IL-22 may be involved in the development of PCOS.

CD38 regulates ovarian function and fecundity via NAD+ metabolism

Mammalian female reproductive lifespan is typically significantly shorter than life expectancy and is associated with a decrease in ovarian NAD+ levels. However, the mechanisms underlying this loss of ovarian NAD+ are unclear. Here, we show that CD38, an NAD+ consuming enzyme, is expressed in the ovarian extrafollicular space, primarily in immune cells, and its levels increase with reproductive age. Reproductively young mice lacking CD38 exhibit larger primordial follicle pools, elevated ovarian NAD+ levels, and increased fecundity relative to wild type controls. This larger ovarian reserve results from a prolonged window of follicle formation during early development. However, the beneficial effect of CD38 loss on reproductive function is not maintained at advanced age. Our results demonstrate a novel role of CD38 in regulating ovarian NAD+ metabolism and establishing the ovarian reserve, a critical process that dictates a female's reproductive lifespan.

Signaling pathways and targeted therapeutic strategies for polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age. Although promising strides have been made in the field of PCOS over the past decades, the distinct etiologies of this syndrome are not fully elucidated. Prenatal factors, genetic variation, epigenetic mechanisms, unhealthy lifestyles, and environmental toxins all contribute to the development of this intricate and highly heterogeneous metabolic, endocrine, reproductive, and psychological disorder. Moreover, interactions between androgen excess, insulin resistance, disruption to the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovary (HPO) axis, and obesity only make for a more complex picture. In this review, we investigate and summarize the related molecular mechanisms underlying PCOS pathogenesis from the perspective of the level of signaling pathways, including PI3K/Akt, TGF-β/Smads, Wnt/β-catenin, and Hippo/YAP. Additionally, this review provides an overview of prospective therapies, such as exosome therapy, gene therapy, and drugs based on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and natural compounds. By targeting these aberrant pathways, these interventions primarily alleviate inflammation, insulin resistance, androgen excess, and ovarian fibrosis, which are typical symptoms of PCOS. Overall, we hope that this paper will pave the way for better understanding and management of PCOS in the future.

Investigating the role of mitochondrial DNA D-loop variants, haplotypes, and copy number in polycystic ovary syndrome: implications for clinical phenotypes in the Chinese population

Background

The presence of genetic variations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) has been associated with a diverse array of diseases. The objective of this study was to examine the correlations between mtDNA D-loop, its haplotypes, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in the Chinese population, and the associations between mtDNA D-loop and symptoms of PCOS. The study also sought to determine whether the mtDNA copy number in Chinese patients with PCOS differed from that of individuals in the control group.

Methods

Infertile individuals who only had tubal or male factor treatment were the focus of research by The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). mtDNA haplotypes were categorized using polymorphic D-loop sites. mtDNA D-loop, PCOS features, and mtDNA haplotypes were analyzed using R software to determine the strength of the association between the three. There are certain DNA haplotypes linked to PCOS. Microdroplet digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to determine the mtDNA copy number in a convenience sample of 168 PCOS patients and 83 controls.

Results

Among the research group, the majority of D-loop mutations were infrequent (frequency< 1%), with only 45 variants displaying a minimum allele frequency (MAF) of 5% or higher. No association was found between polymorphism loci in PCOS patients and body mass index (BMI). Noteworthy, C194T, 1A200G, 523delAC, and C16234T showed positive correlations with elevated LH/FSH levels. Additionally, specific polymorphic loci G207A, 16036GGins, and 16049Gins within the D-loop region of mtDNA potentially exerted a protective role in PCOS development. Conversely, no statistical significance was observed in the expression levels of C16291T and T489C. Chinese women with mtDNA haplotype A15 exhibited a decreased risk of developing PCOS. Moreover, a significant difference in mtDNA copy number was detected, with controls averaging 25.87 (21.84, 34.81), while PCOS patients had a mean of 129.91 (99.38, 168.63).

Conclusion

Certain mtDNA D-loop mutations and haplotypes appear to confer protection against PCOS in Chinese women. In addition, elevated mtDNA copy number may serve as an indicator during early stages of PCOS.

Deletion of enzymes for de novo NAD+ biosynthesis accelerated ovarian aging

Recent advances highlight the pivotal role of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+ ) in ovarian aging. However, the roles of de novo NAD+ biosynthesis on ovarian aging are still unknown. Here, we found that genetic ablation of Ido1 (indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase 1) or Qprt (Quinolinate phosphoribosyl transferase), two critical genes in de novo NAD+ biosynthesis, resulted in decreased ovarian NAD+ levels in middle-aged mice, leading to subfertility, irregular estrous cycles, reduced ovarian reserve, and accelerated aging. Moreover, we observed impaired oocyte quality, characterized by increased reactive oxygen species and spindle anomalies, which ultimately led to reduced fertilization ability and impaired early embryonic development. A transcriptomic analysis of ovaries in both mutant and wild-type mice revealed alterations in gene expression related to mitochondrial metabolism. Our findings were further supported by the observation of impaired mitochondrial distribution and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential in the oocytes of knockout mice. Supplementation with nicotinamide riboside (NR), an NAD+ booster, in mutant mice increased ovarian reserve and improved oocyte quality. Our study highlights the importance of the NAD+ de novo pathway in middle-aged female fertility.

Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction of granulosa cells in polycystic ovarian syndrome

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the leading causes of anovulatory infertility in women, affecting 5%-15% of women of reproductive age worldwide. The clinical manifestations of patients include ovulation disorders, amenorrhea, hirsutism, and obesity. Life-threatening diseases, such as endometrial cancer, type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidaemia, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease, can be distant complications of PCOS. PCOS has diverse etiologies and oxidative stress (OS) plays an important role. Mitochondria, as the core organelles of energy production, are the main source of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The process of follicular growth and development is extremely complex, and the granulosa cells (GCs) are inextricably linked to follicular development. The abnormal function of GCs may directly affect follicular development and alter many symptoms of PCOS. Significantly higher levels of OS markers and abnormal mitochondrial function in GCs have been found in patients with PCOS compared to healthy subjects, suggesting that increased OS is associated with PCOS progression. Therefore, the aim of this review was to summarize and discuss the findings suggesting that OS and mitochondrial dysfunction in GCs impair ovarian function and induce PCOS.

miR-484 mediates oxidative stress-induced ovarian dysfunction and promotes granulosa cell apoptosis via SESN2 downregulation

Ovarian dysfunction is a common cause of female infertility, which is associated with genetic, autoimmune and environmental factors. Granulosa cells (GCs) constitute the largest cell population of ovarian follicles. Changes in GCs, including oxidative stress (OS) and excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS), are involved in regulating ovary function. miR-484 is highly expressed in 3-NP-induced oxidative stress models of ovaries and GCs. miR-484 overexpression aggravated GCs dysfunction and thereby intensified ovarian oxidative stress injury in mice. Moreover, bioinformatic analyses, luciferase assays and pull-down assays indicated that LINC00958 acted as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) for miR-484 and formed a signaling axis with Sestrin2(SESN2) under oxidative stress conditions, which in turn regulated mitochondrial functions and mitochondrial-related apoptosis in GCs. Additionally, the inhibition of miR-484 alleviated GCs dysfunction under ovarian oxidative stress condition. Our present study revealed the role of miR-484 in oxidative stress of ovaries and GCs and the function of LINC00958/miR-484/SESN2 axis in mitochondrial function and mitochondria-related apoptosis.

Mitocytosis Is Critical for Phthalate-Induced Injury to the Ovarian Granulosa Cell Layer in Quail (Coturnix japonica)

Phthalates are widely used synthetic chemicals that determine endocrine disruption effects on female reproductivity and oviposition. Our study demonstrated that the mitochondrial quality in ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) is associated with a poor prognosis in female reproduction. However, the molecular mechanism of di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) exposure on the quail ovarian GC layer is still unknown. To validate the effects of DEHP on the GC layer, 8 days' old 150 female Japanese quail were treated orally with DEHP (250, 500, and 750 mg/kg BW/day) for 45 days to explore the toxic effects of DEHP on the ovarian GC layer. Histopathological assessment and ultrastructure observation found that DEHP decreased the thickness of the GC layer, resulted in mitochondrial damage, and activated mitocytosis. Additionally, the results further suggested that DEHP impacted the secretion of steroid hormones (reduced FSH, E2, and T levels and boosted Prog, PRL, and LH levels) by triggering mitocytosis (enhanced transcription of MYO19 and protein of KIF5B levels), mitochondrial dynamics (increasing mRNA and protein levels of OPA1, DRP1, MFN1, and MFN2), mitophagy (increasing mRNA and protein levels of Parkin, LC3B, and P62), and inducing GC function disorder. In conclusion, our research provided a new idea to explain the mechanism of DEHP toxicity of the ovarian GC layer in quail and presented insights into the role of mitocytosis in DEHP-induced ovarian GC layer injury.

Protective effects of electroacupuncture on polycystic ovary syndrome in rats: Down-regulating Alas2 to inhibit apoptosis, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction in ovarian granulosa cells

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous endocrine disorder affecting women at reproductive age. The therapeutic effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on PCOS has been revealed, while the anti-PCOS mechanisms of EA have not been fully explored. In this study, PCOS were induced in rats by daily injection with dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) for 20 days and EA treatment was performed for 5 weeks. The mRNA expression profiles in ovarian tissues from control, PCOS, and EA-treated rats were examined by high-throughput mRNA sequencing. 5'-aminolevulinate synthase 2 (Alas2), a vital rate-limiting enzyme of the heme synthesis pathway, was selected to be further studied. PCOS led to the upregulation of Alas2 mRNA, whereas EA treatment restored this change. In vitro, primary ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) were challenged with H₂O₂ to mimic the oxidative stress (OS) state in PCOS. H₂O₂ induced apoptosis, OS, mitochondrial dysfunction, as well as Alas2 overexpression in GCs, while lentivirus-mediated Alas2 knockdown evidently restrained the above impairments. In summary, this study highlights the crucial role of Alas2 in cell apoptosis, OS, and mitochondrial dysfunction of PCOS GCs and provides potential therapeutic candidates for further investigation on PCOS treatment.

Erxian decoction alleviates cisplatin-induced premature ovarian failure in rats by reducing oxidation levels in ovarian granulosa cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANT

Erxian Decoction (EXD) has been used empirically for more than 70 years to treat premature ovarian failure (POF), but more research is needed to understand how it works.

AIM OF THE RESEARCH

The study aims to ascertain both in vivo and in vitro rewards of EXD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

EXD is composed of Curculiginis Rhizoma, Epimedii Folium, Morindae Officinalis, Angelicae Sinensis, Anemarrhenae Rhizoma, and Phellodendri Chinensis Cortex. UPLC/MS analysis was used to investigate the components of EXD. Using a POF model created by administering cisplatin to rats intraperitoneally, the pharmacodynamic effects of EXD were investigated. Three dose groups of EXD were garaged into rats: high (15.6 g/kg), medium (7.8 g/kg), and low (3.9 g/kg). By using a vaginal smear, the impact of EXD on the rat estrous cycle was evaluated. An ELISA test was used to measure the anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), estradiol (E2), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels in the serum of rats. By using HE stains, pathological alterations in the ovaries may be seen. MDA and SOD levels in ovarian samples were used to measure the degree of ovarian oxidation. TUNEL labeling of ovarian sections was used to find apoptosis levels. By using ATP, energy production was evaluated. The relative expression of proteins connected to aging and the RAGE pathway was assessed using Western blot. Then, using H₂O₂, a model of senescent human ovarian granulosa cells (KGN) was created in vitro. The impact of EXD and H₂O₂ on cellular senescence was discovered using-galactosidase staining. Cell apoptosis levels were found using PI/Hoechest33342. By using DCFH-DA, intracellular ROS was examined. MDA and SOD concentrations were used to measure the degree of cellular oxidation. RAGE-related mRNA and protein expression were evaluated using RT-qPCR and western blotting.

RESULTS

Using UPLC/MS analysis, 39 chemicals in EXD were found. Rats' estrous cycles were enhanced by EXD, which increased ovarian index and follicle count and reduced the proportion of atretic follicles in the rats. EXD reduced LH and FSH output while restoring AMH and E2 secretion. In ovarian tissues, EXD reduced the amount of apoptosis and MDA while raising SOD activity and ATP levels. The protein levels of p16, p21, p53, and Lamin A/C were among the senescence-related proteins that EXD lowered, along with the levels of RAGE, PI3K, BAX, and CASPASE 3. Anti-apoptotic protein BCL-2 was also raised in the RAGE pathway. Senescence, apoptosis, ROS, and MDA levels in the KGN cells were lowered in vitro by EXD. Additionally, EXD increased the anti-apoptotic potential by changing the expression of CAT, SOD2, and SIRT1. RAGE, BAX, BCL-2, CASPASE 3, and p38 expression levels were altered by EXD, enhancing its anti-apoptotic capability.

CONCLUSION

EXD boosted the ovary's antioxidant and anti-apoptotic capabilities while enhancing the estrous cycle and hormone output. These findings strongly suggested that EXD may contribute to the alleviation of POF and ovarian granulosa cells senescence.

Double-edged sword: effects of human sperm reactive oxygen species on embryo development in IVF cycles

BACKGROUND

The exact role of sperm reactive oxygen species (ROS) in early embryo development has yet to be fully identified, and most of existing research did not differentiate female infertility factors, ignoring the importance of oocyte quality in embryo development and the large differences in oocyte quality in women with infertility of different etiologies. And there has been no relevant report on whether different types of sperm ROS have distinct effects on embryo development. This study aimed to study the impact of selected sperm ROS, namely, sperm mitochondrial ROS (mROS) and hydrogen peroxide, on human embryo development after conventional in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles in patients with normo-ovulatory infertility vs. anovulatory infertility.

METHODS

This was a prospective investigation including 393 couples underwent IVF cycles, among whom 90 patients had anovulatory infertility and 303 patients had normo-ovulatory infertility in a public university-affiliated in vitro fertilization center. Sperm mROS and hydrogen peroxide testing were performed by flow cytometry and analyzed for their relationship with embryo development indices on days 1-6 after IVF. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to control for female potential confounders. The nonlinear effects of sperm ROS on embryo development were analyzed by the Restricted cubic spline (RCS) method.

RESULTS

1. Multivariate linear logistic regression analysis showed that high proportion of mROS positive sperm improved the 2PN rate (OR = 1.325, 95% CI: 1.103-1.595), day 3 embryo utilization rate (OR = 1.362, 95% CI: 1.151-1.614) and good-quality day 3 embryo rate (OR = 1.391, 95% CI: 1.089-1.783) in patients with anovulatory infertility. High percentage of sperm mROS and hydrogen peroxide had adverse effects on cleavage-stage embryo and blastocyst development in patients with normo-ovulatory infertility. 2. For patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) anovulatory infertility, there were significant distinct effects on embryo development indices between sperm mROS and hydrogen peroxide, and the increased rate of sperm mROS improved the good-quality day 3 embryo rate (OR = 1.435, 95% CI: 1.045-1.981); however, high percentage of sperm hydrogen peroxide reduced the blastocyst utilization rate (OR = 0.555, 95% CI: 0.353-0.864) and the good-quality blastocyst rate (OR = 0.461, 95% CI: 0.292-0.718). 3. Multivariate RCS analysis revealed that sperm ROS had a nonlinear (such as a parabolic curve) effect on embryo development in patients with anovulatory infertility (P < 0.05), and either greatly increased or greatly decreased affected cleavage-stage embryo and blastocyst development. The effects of sperm ROS in patients with normo-ovulatory infertility were both linear and nonlinear.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings indicate that contrary effects of sperm mROS on embryo development depending on whether patients treated with IVF cycles had normal ovulation. Regardless of whether the patients ovulated normally, increased sperm hydrogen peroxide rate damaged blastocyst development. It is necessary to evaluate male sperm ROS levels and the female ovulatory state to determine an individualized intervention plan before starting cycles, as this may be beneficial for infertile couples.

Gut microbiome in PCOS associates to serum metabolomics: a cross-sectional study

The association between gut microbiome and chronic metabolic disease including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), is well documented, however, the relationship between the gut microbiota and serum metabolites remains unknown. In this study, untargeted metabolomics together with a 16S rRNA gene sequencing tool was used to detect small molecule serum metabolites and the gut microbiome. We identified 15 differential metabolites between PCOS patients and the healthy control. Lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) (18:2, 20:3, 18:1, P-16:0, 17:0, 15:0, 18:3, 20:4), phosphatidylcholine(PC), ganglioside GA2 (d18:1/16:0) and 1-linoleoylglycerophosphocholine were increased in the PCOS group, and the concentrations of phosphoniodidous acid, bilirubin, nicotinate beta-D-ribonucleotide and citric acid were decreased in the PCOS group, suggesting a lipid metabolism and energy metabolism disorder in the PCOS patients. The diversity of gut microbiota in PCOS group was lower than that in healthy controls. Escherichia/Shigella, Alistipes and an unnamed strain 0319_6G20 belonging to Proteobacteria were important distinguishing genera (LDA > 3.5) in PCOS. Prevotella_9 was positively correlated with phosphoniodidous acid, nicotinate beta-D-ribonucleotide and citric acid concentrations, and negatively correlated with the concentration of LPC (20:3) and 1-linoleoylglycerophosphocholine; Roseburia was negatively correlated with LPC concentration (20:4), while the characteristic genus 0319_6G20 of PCOS was positively correlated with LPC concentration (20:3) (COR > 0.45). SF-36 in the PCOS group was significantly lower than that in the healthy control (HC) group, which was associated with the presence of Escherichia-Shigella and Alistipes. Our finding demonstrated the correlation between the gut microbiota and serum metabolites in PCOS, and therefore characteristic gut microbiota and metabolites may play an important role in the insulin resistance and the mood changes of PCOS patients.

Declining muscle NAD+ in a hyperandrogenism PCOS mouse model: Possible role in metabolic dysregulation

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder, defined by reproductive and endocrine abnormalities, with metabolic dysregulation including obesity, insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis. Recently, it was found that skeletal muscle insulin sensitivity could be improved in obese, post-menopausal, pre-diabetic women through treatment with nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), a precursor to the prominent redox cofactor nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). Given that PCOS patients have a similar endocrine profile to these patients, we hypothesised that declining NAD levels in muscle might play a role in the pathogenesis of the metabolic syndrome associated with PCOS, and that this could be normalized through NMN treatment. Here, we tested the impact of NMN treatment on the metabolic syndrome of the dihydrotestosterone (DHT) induced mouse model of PCOS. We observed lower NAD levels in the muscle of PCOS mice, which was normalized by NMN treatment. PCOS mice were hyperinsulinaemic, resulting in increased adiposity and hepatic lipid deposition. Strikingly, NMN treatment completely normalized these aspects of metabolic dysfunction. We propose that addressing the decline in skeletal muscle NAD levels associated with PCOS can normalize insulin sensitivity, preventing compensatory hyperinsulinaemia, which drives obesity and hepatic lipid deposition, though we cannot discount an impact of NMN on other tissues to mediate these effects. These findings support further investigation into NMN treatment as a new therapy for normalizing the aberrant metabolic features of PCOS.

Yangjing Zhongyu decoction facilitates mitochondrial activity, estrogenesis, and energy metabolism in H2O2-induced human granulosa cell line KGN

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANT

Yangjing Zhongyu decoction (YJZYD) is a recipe from a Chinese classic medical work and has been empirically used in female infertility for hundreds of years, but the mechanisms of YJZYD on facilitating ovarian granulosa cells remain unfold.

AIM OF THE RESEARCH

The purpose of the study is to determine the rewarding effects of YJZYD on H₂O₂-induced KGN cells, involving mitochondrial activity, estradiol biosynthesis, and energy metabolism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The ingredients of YJZYD were investigated by UPLC-ESI-MS/MS analysis. The effects of YJZYD and H₂O₂ on cell viability were determined by CCK-8. Intracellular ROS were assessed by DCFH-DA. Intracellular Ca²⁺ was detected using Fura-4 AM. Mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) was measured by JC-1. The production of energy was assessed by ATP. Apoptosis rate was analyzed by Annexin V-FITC/PI. Western blotting was used to evaluate the expression of proteins related to energy metabolism, apoptosis, mitochondrial mitophagy, and estrogen biosynthesis. E₂ levels were measured by ELISA.

RESULTS

121 compounds were identified in YJZYD by UPLC-ESI-MS/MS analysis. YJZYD could enhance mitochondrial activity by suppressing intracellular ROS and Ca²⁺, and increasing MMP and ATP content. YJZYD stimulated the expression of anti-apoptosis protein Bcl-2 and lowered the early apoptosis rate and the expression of Bax. Besides, YJZYD rescued E₂ secretion and improved the expression of FSHR, CYP19A1, and the ratio of p-CREB/CREB. In addition, YJZYD weakened H₂O₂-induced mitophagy by compromising the expression of PINK1, Parkin, Beclin1 and P62. Moreover, YJZYD strengthened energy metabolism by increasing ATP generation and the expression of SIRT1, PGC1α, NRF1, and COX IV. The combination of YJZYD and autophagy inhibitor had a stronger protective effect on energy metabolism.

CONCLUSION

This study evaluated the protective effects of YJZYD on H₂O₂-induced KGN cells. YJZYD could enhance mitochondrial activity, E₂ biosynthesis, and energy metabolism. These results strongly indicated that YJZYD might play a role in preserving ovarian granulosa cells and female fecundity.

Roles of HIF-1α/BNIP3 mediated mitophagy in mitochondrial dysfunction of letrozole-induced PCOS rats

Mitochondrial dysfunction plays a crucial role in the pathological physiology of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Mitochondrial quality control system is vital to maintaining mitochondrial function, includes mitochondrial biosynthesis, dynamics and mitophagy. While mitophagy as a specific autophagy, plays an important role in the mitochondrial quality control system and is mediated by some signaling pathways to eliminate the excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α/B-cell lymphoma-2 adenovirus E1B 19 kDa interacting protein 3 (BNIP3). Our previous studies have found that excessive production of ROS and the decreased expression of HIF-1α in the ovaries of PCOS rats. Thus, we hypothesized that excessive ROS leads to mitochondrial dysfunction, attenuates HIF-1α/BNIP3-mediated mitophagy in the ovaries of PCOS rats, and further reduces the mitophagic defense. Firstly, the oxidative stress status was detected and found excessive ROS damages ovarian tissue in PCOS rats. Secondly, the marker proteins of mitochondrial biosynthesis/dynamics and amount were examined and found that their expression levels were abnormal, which showed that the abnormal mitochondrial quality control system leads to accumulate the excess or damaged mitochondria in PCOS ovaries. Finally, we detected the HIF-1α/BNIP3 pathway and found HIF-1α-mediated mitophagy is impaired in the ovaries of PCOS rats. Together, these results clearly demonstrated excessive ROS causes mitochondrial dysfunction via the abnormal mitochondrial quality control system, and attenuates HIF-1α/BNIP3-mediated mitophagic defense in the granulosa cells of PCOS rats, which will provide a new direction for further understanding the role of HIF-1α in the molecular mechanism of mitochondrial dysfunction in PCOS ovaries.

Improvement in Mung Bean Peptide on High-Fat Diet-Induced Insulin Resistance Mice Using Untargeted Serum Metabolomics

This study aimed to elucidate the potential regulatory mechanism of mung bean peptides (MBPs) on glucolipid metabolism in insulin-resistant mice induced by high-fat diet (HFD) using untargeted serum metabolomics, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), intraperitoneal injection glucose tolerance test (IPGTT), insulin tolerance test (IPITT), and hematoxylin-eosin staining (H&amp;E). The regulatory effect of MBPs for alleviating insulin resistance was studied by measuring body weight, fasting blood glucose (FBG) and serum insulin levels, C-Peptide levels, inflammatory and antioxidant factors, and histopathological observation of C57BL/6 mice. The experimental results showed that dietary intervention with MBPs (245 mg/kg/d) for 5 weeks significantly relieved insulin resistance in HFD mice. The body weight, insulin resistance index, and the levels of FBG, C-Peptide, IL-6, TNF-α, and MDA in the serum of HFD mice significantly decreased (P &lt; 0.05). Conversely, SOD content and pancreatic β cell function index significantly increased (P &lt; 0.05), and the damaged pancreatic tissue was repaired. One biomarker associated with insulin resistance was glycine. In addition, there were four important differential metabolites: pyroglutamate, D-glutamine, aminoadipic acid, and nicotinamide, involved in 12 metabolic pathway changes. It was found that MBPs may regulate amino acid, glycerol phospholipid, fatty acid, alkaloid, and nicotinamide metabolism to regulate the metabolic profile of HFD mice in a beneficial direction.