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Fang J, Sun H, Chen L, Wang J, Lin F, Xu Z, Zhu L, Wang S. Embryological characteristics and clinical outcomes of oocytes with different degrees of abnormal zona pellucida during assisted reproductive treatment. ZYGOTE 2024; 32:7-13. [PMID: 38018399 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199423000515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
Abnormalities in the zona pellucida (ZP) adversely affect oocyte maturation, embryo development and pregnancy outcomes. However, the assessment of severity is challenging. To evaluate the effects of different degrees of ZP abnormalities on embryo development and clinical outcomes, in total, 590 retrieval cycles were scored and divided into four categories (control, mild, moderate and severe) based on three parameters: perivitelline space, percentage of immature oocytes and percentage of oocytes with abnormal morphology. As the severity of abnormal ZP increased, both the number of retrieved oocytes and mature oocytes decreased. The fertilization rate did not differ significantly among groups. The rates of embryo cleavage and day-3 high-quality embryos in the mild group and the moderate group did not vary significantly between the two groups but were significantly higher than those in the severe group. The blastulation rates of the abnormal ZP groups were similar; however, they were lower than those of the control group. Moreover, the cycle cancellation rate of the severe abnormal ZP group was as high as 66.20%, which was significantly higher than that of the other three groups. Although the rates of cumulative clinical pregnancy and live births were lower than those in the control group, they were comparable among the abnormal ZP groups. There were no differences in the neonatal outcomes of the different groups. Together, ZP abnormalities show various degrees of severity, and in all patients regardless of the degree of ZP abnormalities who achieve available embryos, there will be an opportunity to eventually give birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junshun Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
| | - Hua Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
| | - Linjun Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
| | - Fei Lin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
| | - Zhipeng Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
| | - Lihua Zhu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
| | - Shanshan Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
- Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing210008, China
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Ma M, Zhang L, Liu Z, Teng Y, Li M, Peng X, An L. Effect of blastocyst development on hatching and embryo implantation. Theriogenology 2024; 214:66-72. [PMID: 37857152 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
The mammalian zygote, formed after a sperm fertilizes an egg, undergoes several rounds of mitosis and morphogenesis to form the blastocyst. During the peri-implantation period, the blastocyst hatches out of the zona pellucida (ZP) and invades the receptive uterine endometrium. This process promotes maternal-fetal dialogue at the physiological and molecular level, thereby initiating the implantation process. Blastocyst hatching is a consequence of elevated osmotic pressure due to active Na+/K+ ion transporter in the blastocyst cavity, as well as proteases produced by trophectoderm (TE) that hydrolyze the ZP. This review summarizes the process underpinning blastocyst hatching, such as the hatching schedule, the location of TEs during initial hatching out of the ZP, the molecules involved in blastocyst hatching, and how these processes affect implantation events. Additionally, we focus on identifying crucial molecules that may influence the quality of implantation and predict the outcome of embryo implantation. Further understanding the mechanism of these molecules may help us to improve the efficiency of Assisted reproductive technology (ART) in livestock breeding. This review provides insight into embryonic development, specifically during the short-term process of blastocyst hatching and its effects on the following implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meixiang Ma
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, 830046, China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, 830046, China
| | - Zihan Liu
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, 830046, China
| | - Yadi Teng
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, 830046, China
| | - Miaolong Li
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, 830046, China
| | - Xinrong Peng
- Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Xinjiang Academy of Animal Science, Urumqi, 830011, China.
| | - Liyou An
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, 830046, China.
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Liu SL, Zuo HY, Zhao BW, Guo JN, Liu WB, Lei WL, Li YY, Ouyang YC, Hou Y, Han ZM, Wang WZ, Sun QY, Wang ZB. A heterozygous ZP2 mutation causes zona pellucida defects and female infertility in mouse and human. iScience 2023; 26:107828. [PMID: 37736051 PMCID: PMC10509300 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The zona pellucida (ZP) is an extracellular glycoprotein matrix surrounding mammalian oocytes. Recently, numerous mutations in genes encoding ZP proteins have been shown to be possibly related to oocyte abnormality and female infertility; few reports have confirmed the functions of these mutations in living animal models. Here, we identified a novel heterozygous missense mutation (NM_001376231.1:c.1616C>T, p.Thr539Met) in ZP2 from a primary infertile female. We showed that the mutation reduced ZP2 expression and impeded ZP2 secretion in cell lines. Furthermore, we constructed the mouse model with the mutation (Zp2T541M) using CRISPR-Cas9. Zp2WT/T541M female mice had normal fertility though generated oocytes with the thin ZP, whereas Zp2T541M female mice were completely infertile due to degeneration of oocytes without ZP. Additionally, ZP deletion impaired folliculogenesis and caused female infertility in Zp2T541M mice. Our study not only expands the spectrum of ZP2 mutation sites but also, more importantly, increases the understanding of pathogenic mechanisms of ZP2 mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai-Li Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 101408, China
| | - Hai-Yang Zuo
- The Six Medical Center of Chinese People’s Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Bing-Wang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 101408, China
| | - Jia-Ni Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 101408, China
| | - Wen-Bo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Wen-Long Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Ying-Chun Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yi Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Zhi-Ming Han
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 101408, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Wei-Zhou Wang
- The Six Medical Center of Chinese People’s Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Qing-Yuan Sun
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases and Reproductive Health, Guangdong-Hong Kong Metabolism & Reproduction Joint Laboratory, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, China
| | - Zhen-Bo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 101408, China
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Beijing 100101, China
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Tong'ao Y, Ruonan G, Yuanyuan W, Hongli L, Haihua Z, Yahan Y. Comparative studies on ovary and serum hormone levels in silver and blue foxes and their hybrids. Anim Reprod Sci 2023; 256:107316. [PMID: 37542843 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2023.107316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
The silver and blue fox appear closely related despite their belonging to different genera, and the male and female fox hybrids are completely sterile in mating inter se or back to either of the parental groups. In the present study, we compared ovarian morphology and serum hormone concentrations among silver foxes, blue foxes, HSBs (silver fox male × blue fox female hybrids) and HBSs (blue fox male × silver fox female hybrids) during the pre-breeding and the breeding period. We found that either the fertile blue and silver foxes or the infertile hybrid foxes showed typical characteristics of ovary, with primordial, primary, secondary, antral and Graafian follicles. The diameters and quantities of different follicle classes in fertile foxes were greater than that in hybrids during the two period, while the thickness of zona pellucida (ZP) represented an opposite trend (P < 0.05). The relative weight of bilateral ovaries in fertile foxes was greater than that in hybrids during the pre-breeding period, while mean serum FSH represented an opposite trend during the breeding period (P < 0.05). The mean serum estradiol in fertile foxes was greater than that in HBS foxes during the pre-breeding period, and greater than hybrids during the breeding period (P < 0.05). These findings indicated that in the infertile hybrid foxes, lower estradiol levels produced by lesser and smaller antral follicles, thicker ZP during the two period, higher FSH levels during the breeding period, could be the basis of interpretations in cases of female fox hybrid infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Tong'ao
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Specialty Animal Germplasm Resources Exploration and Innovation, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, PR China
| | - Guo Ruonan
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Specialty Animal Germplasm Resources Exploration and Innovation, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, PR China
| | - Wang Yuanyuan
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Specialty Animal Germplasm Resources Exploration and Innovation, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, PR China
| | - Liu Hongli
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Specialty Animal Germplasm Resources Exploration and Innovation, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, PR China
| | - Zhang Haihua
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Specialty Animal Germplasm Resources Exploration and Innovation, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, PR China.
| | - Yang Yahan
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Specialty Animal Germplasm Resources Exploration and Innovation, College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, PR China.
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Margiana R, Lestari SW, Narulita P, Jusuf AA, Ima K. Dietary Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) Improved the ZP2 Expression in Female Swiss Mice. JBRA Assist Reprod 2023; 27:147-155. [PMID: 35916458 PMCID: PMC10279445 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20220020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine the effects of soybean (Glycine max) administration on ZP2 expression in female mice. METHODS This research used Mus musculus, six-week-old female SWISS strain mice divided into three groups (group without soybean administration and groups with mixed feed with soybeans and pelleted 50:50 and 25:75). Soybean feed for mice was 360 grams per kilogram of mouse body weight for 2 weeks. The percentage of follicles was measured and analyzed using Hematoxylin-Eosin staining, and the expression of ZP2 was analyzed using immunohistochemistry. We assessed the data using one-way ANOVA and paired t-test using the SPSS 17. RESULTS Some of the follicles in the ovaries do not develop until their final stage of follicle maturation. The administration of soybean before and after treatment in all groups was not significantly different, but the numbers of atretic follicles in groups 1 and 2 were significantly different. Soybean administration at a ratio of 50:50 has the effect of increasing the percentage of the ZP2 expression in tertiary follicles (p=0.001), whereas soybean administration at a ratio of 25:75 was not able to maintain or increase the formation of ZP2 in tertiary follicles (p=0.77). CONCLUSION Soybean administration with a ratio of 50:50 significantly increased the percentage of the ZP2 expression in tertiary follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ria Margiana
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas
Indonesia, Indonesia
- Master’s Programme in Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine,
Universitas Indonesia, Indonesia
- Research Biobank, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia,
Indonesia
- Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas
Indonesia, Indonesia
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas
Indonesia, Indonesia
- Departement of Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas
Indonesia
| | - Silvia Werdhy Lestari
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas
Indonesia, Indonesia
| | - Pety Narulita
- Andrology Program, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga,
Surabaya, Indonesia
- Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Ahmad Aulia Jusuf
- Departement of Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas
Indonesia
| | - Khoirul Ima
- Master’s Programme in Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine,
Universitas Indonesia, Indonesia
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Zeng J, Sun Y, Zhang J, Wu X, Wang Y, Quan R, Song W, Guo D, Wang S, Chen J, Xiao H, Huang HL. Identification of zona pellucida defects revealed a novel loss-of-function mutation in ZP2 in humans and rats. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1169378. [PMID: 37293489 PMCID: PMC10244809 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1169378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Human zona pellucida (ZP) plays an important role in reproductive process. Several rare mutations in the encoding genes (ZP1, ZP2, and ZP3) have been demonstrated to cause women infertility. Mutations in ZP2 have been reported to cause ZP defects or empty follicle syndrome. We aimed to identify pathogenic variants in an infertile woman with a thin zona pellucida (ZP) phenotype and investigated the effect of ZP defects on oocyte gene transcription. Methods We performed whole-exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing of genes were performed for infertilite patients characterized by fertilization failure in routine in vitro fertilization (IVF). Immunofluorescence (IF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) were used in the mutant oocytes. Single-cell RNA sequencing was used to investigate transcriptomes of the gene-edited (Zp2mut/mut) rat model. Biological function enrichment analysis, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), and IF were performed. Results We identified a novel homozygous nonsense mutation of ZP2 (c.1924C > T, p.Arg642X) in a patient with non-consanguineous married parents. All oocytes showed a thin or no ZP under a light microscope and were fertilized after ICSI. The patient successfully conceived by receiving the only two embryos that developed to the blastocyst stage. The immunofluorescence staining showed an apparently abnormal form of the stopped oocytes. We further demonstrated a total of 374 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the transcriptome profiles of Zp2mut/mut rats oocytes and highlighted the signal communication between oocytes and granulosa cells. The pathway enrichment results of DEGs showed that they were enriched in multiple signaling pathways, especially the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathway in oocyte development. qRT-PCR, IF, and phosphorylation analysis showed significantly downregulated expressions of Acvr2b, Smad2, p38MAPK, and Bcl2 and increased cleaved-caspase 3 protein expression. Discussion Our findings expanded the known mutational spectrum of ZP2 associated with thin ZP and natural fertilization failure. Disruption of the integrity of the ZP impaired the TGF-β signaling pathway between oocytes and surrounding granulosa cells, leading to increased apoptosis and decreased developmental potential of oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zeng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ying Sun
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaozhu Wu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ruping Quan
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Wanjuan Song
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Dan Guo
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Shengran Wang
- Center of Reproductive Health, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jianlin Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hongmei Xiao
- Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Center of Reproductive Health, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hua-Lin Huang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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Philibert P, Déjardin S, Girard M, Durix Q, Gonzalez AA, Mialhe X, Tardat M, Poulat F, Boizet-Bonhoure B. Cocktails of NSAIDs and 17α Ethinylestradiol at Environmentally Relevant Doses in Drinking Water Alter Puberty Onset in Mice Intergenerationally. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065890. [PMID: 36982971 PMCID: PMC10099742 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and 17α-ethinyl-estradiol (EE2) are among the most relevant endocrine-disrupting pharmaceuticals found in the environment, particularly in surface and drinking water due to their incomplete removal via wastewater treatment plants. Exposure of pregnant mice to NSAID therapeutic doses during the sex determination period has a negative impact on gonadal development and fertility in adults; however, the effects of their chronic exposure at lower doses are unknown. In this study, we investigated the impact of chronic exposure to a mixture containing ibuprofen, 2hydroxy-ibuprofen, diclofenac, and EE2 at two environmentally relevant doses (added to the drinking water from fetal life until puberty) on the reproductive tract in F1 exposed mice and their F2 offspring. In F1 animals, exposure delayed male puberty and accelerated female puberty. In post-pubertal F1 testes and ovaries, differentiation/maturation of the different gonad cell types was altered, and some of these modifications were observed also in the non-exposed F2 generation. Transcriptomic analysis of post-pubertal testes and ovaries of F1 (exposed) and F2 animals revealed significant changes in gene expression profiles and enriched pathways, particularly the inflammasome, metabolism and extracellular matrix pathways, compared with controls (non-exposed). This suggested that exposure to these drug cocktails has an intergenerational impact. The identified Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) networks for NSAIDs and EE2, at doses that are relevant to everyday human exposure, will improve the AOP network of the human reproductive system development concerning endocrine disruptor chemicals. It may serve to identify other putative endocrine disruptors for mammalian species based on the expression of biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Philibert
- Développement et Pathologie de la Gonade, Institut de Génétique Humaine, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Université de Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France
- Laboratoire de Biochimie et Biologie Moléculaire, Hôpital Carèmeau, CHU de Nîmes, 30900 Nîmes, France
| | - Stéphanie Déjardin
- Développement et Pathologie de la Gonade, Institut de Génétique Humaine, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Université de Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Mélissa Girard
- Développement et Pathologie de la Gonade, Institut de Génétique Humaine, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Université de Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Quentin Durix
- IExplore-RAM, Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Montpellier and Institut National de la Santé Et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Anne-Alicia Gonzalez
- MGX-Montpellier GenomiX, UMS Biocampus, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Xavier Mialhe
- MGX-Montpellier GenomiX, UMS Biocampus, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Mathieu Tardat
- Biologie des Séquences Répétées, Institut de Génétique Humaine, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Francis Poulat
- Développement et Pathologie de la Gonade, Institut de Génétique Humaine, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Université de Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Brigitte Boizet-Bonhoure
- Développement et Pathologie de la Gonade, Institut de Génétique Humaine, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Université de Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France
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Xie J, Xu X, Liu S. Intercellular communication in the cumulus-oocyte complex during folliculogenesis: A review. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1087612. [PMID: 36743407 PMCID: PMC9893509 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1087612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
During folliculogenesis, the oocyte and surrounding cumulus cells form an ensemble called the cumulus-oocyte complex (COC). Due to their interdependence, research on the COC has been a hot issue in the past few decades. A growing body of literature has revealed that intercellular communication is critical in determining oocyte quality and ovulation. This review provides an update on the current knowledge of COC intercellular communication, morphology, and functions. Transzonal projections (TZPs) and gap junctions are the most described structures of the COC. They provide basic metabolic and nutrient support, and abundant molecules for signaling pathways and regulations. Oocyte-secreted factors (OSFs) such as growth differentiation factor 9 and bone morphogenetic protein 15 have been linked with follicular homeostasis, suggesting that the communications are bidirectional. Using advanced techniques, new evidence has highlighted the existence of other structures that participate in intercellular communication. Extracellular vesicles can carry transcripts and signaling molecules. Microvilli on the oocyte can induce the formation of TZPs and secrete OSFs. Cell membrane fusion between the oocyte and cumulus cells can lead to sharing of cytoplasm, in a way making the COC a true whole. These findings give us new insights into related reproductive diseases like polycystic ovary syndrome and primary ovarian insufficiency and how to improve the outcomes of assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Xie
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Suying Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Suying Liu,
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Zhou J, Wang M, Yang Q, Li D, Li Z, Hu J, Jin L, Zhu L. Can successful pregnancy be achieved and predicted from patients with identified ZP mutations? A literature review. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:166. [PMID: 36476320 PMCID: PMC9730648 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-01046-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In mammals, normal fertilization depends on the structural and functional integrity of the zona pellucida (ZP), which is an extracellular matrix surrounding oocytes. Mutations in ZP may affect oogenesis, fertilization and early embryonic development, which may cause female infertility. METHODS A PubMed literature search using the keywords 'zona pellucida', 'mutation' and 'variant' limited to humans was performed, with the last research on June 30, 2022. The mutation types, clinical phenotypes and pregnancy outcomes were summarized and analyzed. The naive Bayes classifier was used to predict clinical pregnancy outcomes for patients with ZP mutations. RESULTS A total of 29 publications were included in the final analysis. Sixty-nine mutations of the ZP genes were reported in 87 patients with different clinical phenotypes, including empty follicle syndrome (EFS), ZP-free oocytes (ZFO), ZP-thin oocytes (ZTO), degenerated and immature oocytes. The phenotypes of patients were influenced by the types and location of the mutations. The most common effects of ZP mutations are protein truncation and dysfunction. Three patients with ZP1 mutations, two with ZP2 mutations, and three with ZP4 mutations had successful pregnancies through Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) from ZFO or ZTO. A prediction model of pregnancy outcome in patients with ZP mutation was constructed to assess the chance of pregnancy with the area under the curve (AUC) of 0.898. The normalized confusion matrix showed the true positive rate was 1.00 and the true negative rate was 0.38. CONCLUSION Phenotypes in patients with ZP mutations might be associated with mutation sites or the degree of protein dysfunction. Successful pregnancy outcomes could be achieved in some patients with identified ZP mutations. Clinical pregnancy prediction model based on ZP mutations and clinical characteristics will be helpful to precisely evaluate pregnancy chance and provide references and guidance for the clinical treatment of relevant patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juepu Zhou
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Meng Wang
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Qiyu Yang
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Dan Li
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Zhou Li
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Juan Hu
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Lei Jin
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Lixia Zhu
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No.1095, Jiefang Road, Wuhan, 430030 China
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Lv C, Huang HL, Yi DJ, Peng TL, Tan HJ, Quan RP, Deng HW, Xiao HM. Mutant Zp1 impedes incorporation of ZP3 and ZP4 in the zona pellucida, resulting in zona absence and female infertility in rats†. Biol Reprod 2021; 104:1262-1270. [PMID: 33624742 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The zona pellucida (ZP) plays vital roles in reproductive processes including oogenesis, fertilization, and preimplantation development. Both human and rat ZP consist of four glycoproteins, called ZP1, ZP2, ZP3, and ZP4. Our previous research reported a novel Zp1 mutation in cases of human infertility, associated with an abnormal phenotype involving the absence of the ZP. Here, we developed a homologous rat strain to investigate the pathogenic effect. The ovaries of homozygous (Zp1MT/MT) females possessed both growing and fully grown oocytes; the oocytes completely lacked a ZP, but ZP1 was detectable inside the cytoplasm. Only 1-2 eggs were recovered from oviducts of superovulated Zp1MT/MT females, while an average of 21 eggs were recovered from superovulated Zp1WT/WT per female. The eggs of Zp1MT/MT females were not surrounded by a ZP and lost their fertilization capacity in vitro. Zp1MT/MT females mated with wild-type males failed to become pregnant. Studies in 293T cells showed that mutant Zp1 resulted in a truncated ZP1 protein, which might be intracellularly sequestered and interacted with wild-type ZP3 or ZP4. Our results suggest that the Zp1 point mutation led to infertility and loss of the ZP in oocytes in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Lv
- School of Basic Medical Science, Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, China.,School of Basic Medical Science, Center of Reproductive Health, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Changsha Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Hua-Lin Huang
- School of Basic Medical Science, Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, China.,School of Basic Medical Science, Center of Reproductive Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Da-Jing Yi
- School of Basic Medical Science, Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, China.,School of Basic Medical Science, Center of Reproductive Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Tian-Liu Peng
- School of Basic Medical Science, Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, China.,School of Basic Medical Science, Center of Reproductive Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hang-Jing Tan
- School of Basic Medical Science, Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, China.,School of Basic Medical Science, Center of Reproductive Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ru-Ping Quan
- School of Basic Medical Science, Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, China.,School of Basic Medical Science, Center of Reproductive Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hong-Wen Deng
- Department of Global Biostatistics and Data Science, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Center for Bioinformatics and Genomics, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA.,School of Basic Medical Science, Center of System Biology and Data Information, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hong-Mei Xiao
- School of Basic Medical Science, Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, China.,School of Basic Medical Science, Center of Reproductive Health, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Yang P, Chen T, Liu Y, Hou Z, Wu K, Cao Y, Zhang J, Wang Z, Zhao H. The critical role of ZP genes in female infertility characterized by empty follicle syndrome and oocyte degeneration. Fertil Steril 2020; 115:1259-1269. [PMID: 33272616 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify the major causative gene(s) of genuine empty follicle syndrome (GEFS) characterized by oocyte degeneration. DESIGN Genetic and functional studies. SETTING University-based reproductive medicine center. PATIENT(S) Thirty-five unrelated women with GEFS and oocyte degeneration. INTERVENTION(S) Whole-exome sequencing (WES) and targeted Sanger sequencing. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Variants predicted by software and the functional effects of variants assessed via Western blot and immunofluorescence in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. RESULT(S) We identified zona pellucida (ZP) gene variants in 18 individuals, which included 20 variants in the ZP1 gene, two variants in the ZP2 gene, and one previously reported recurrent variant in the ZP3 gene. The women carrying ZP variants constituted 51.43% of the GEFS cohort. The ZP1 variants were inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern; the ZP2 and ZP3 variants were inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. All variants were predicted to be deleterious. Studies in CHO cells suggested that most ZP1 variants led to increased intracytoplasmic protein and some variants influenced the intracellular transportation of other ZP proteins. Variant p.R642Q of ZP2 caused the secretion of ZP2 protein with an increased molecular weight, suggesting altered protein modification. Variant p.I619N of ZP2 resulted in increased ZP2 protein in cell lysate and decreased ZP2 protein in culture medium. These results showed that ZP variants might block the intracellular transportation and secretion of ZP proteins and disrupt the zona pellucida. CONCLUSION(S) We identified novel variants of ZP genes in more than half the cohort with GEFS and oocyte degeneration. Variants of ZP genes caused protein intracellular sequestration and failure to assemble the ZP filaments, resulting in EFS and female infertility. Our findings not only reveal the critical roles of ZP genes but also pave the way for the efficient genetic diagnosis of females with GEFS and oocyte degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Tailai Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuqing Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenzhen Hou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Keliang Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongzhi Cao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiangtao Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhao Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, People's Republic of China.
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12
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Andrade GM, del Collado M, Meirelles FV, da Silveira JC, Perecin F. Intrafollicular barriers and cellular interactions during ovarian follicle development. Anim Reprod 2019; 16:485-496. [PMID: 32435292 PMCID: PMC7234062 DOI: 10.21451/1984-3143-ar2019-0051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicles are composed of different interdependent cell types including oocytes, cumulus, granulosa, and theca cells. Follicular cells and oocytes exchange signaling molecules from the beginning of the development of the primordial follicles until the moment of ovulation. The follicular structure transforms during folliculogenesis; barriers form between the germ and the somatic follicular cells, and between the somatic follicular cells. As such, communication systems need to adapt to maintain the exchange of signaling molecules. Two critical barriers are established at different stages of development: the zona pellucida, separating the oocyte and the cumulus cells limiting the communication through specific connections, and the antrum, separating subpopulations of follicular cells. In both situations, communication is maintained either by the development of specialized connections as transzonal projections or by paracrine signaling and trafficking of extracellular vesicles through the follicular fluid. The bidirectional communication between the oocytes and the follicle cells is vital for driving folliculogenesis and oogenesis. These communication systems are associated with essential functions related to follicular development, oocyte competence, and embryonic quality. Here, we discuss the formation of the zona pellucida and antrum during folliculogenesis, and their importance in follicle and oocyte development. Moreover, this review discusses the current knowledge on the cellular mechanisms such as the movement of molecules via transzonal projections, and the exchange of extracellular vesicles by follicular cells to overcome these barriers to support female gamete development. Finally, we highlight the undiscovered aspects related to intrafollicular communication among the germ and somatic cells, and between the somatic follicular cells and give our perspective on manipulating the above-mentioned cellular communication to improve reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Mamede Andrade
- Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Maite del Collado
- Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Flávio Vieira Meirelles
- Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Juliano Coelho da Silveira
- Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Felipe Perecin
- Faculty of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil.
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