1
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Liu P, Shao Y, Liu C, Lv X, Afedo SY, Bao W. Special Staining and Protein Expression of VEGF/EGFR and P53/NF-κB in Cryptorchid Tissue of Erhualian Pigs. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:100. [PMID: 38255715 PMCID: PMC10817362 DOI: 10.3390/life14010100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Erhualian pigs exhibit one of the highest reproductive rates globally, and cryptorchidism is a crucial factor affecting reproductive abilities of boars. This investigation focused on cryptorchid tissues from Erhualian pigs, where the histological structure of cryptorchidism was observed using specialized staining. In addition, protein expression of P53/NF-κB in cryptorchid tissues was assessed using Western blot and immunohistochemistry. In comparison to normal Erhualian testes, Masson's trichrome staining indicated a reduction in collagen fibers in the connective tissue and around the basal membrane of the seminiferous tubules in cryptorchid testes. Moreover, collagen fiber distribution was observed to be disordered. Verhoeff Van Gieson (EVG) and argyrophilic staining demonstrated brownish-black granular nucleoli organized regions in mesenchymal cells and germ cells. When compared to normal testicles, the convoluted seminiferous tubules of cryptorchids exhibited a significantly reduced number and diameter (p < 0.01). Notably, VEGF/EGFR and P53/NF-κB expression in cryptorchidism significantly differed from that in normal testes. In particular, the expression of VEGF and P53 in cryptorchid tissues was significantly higher than that in normal testes tissues, whereas the expression of EGFR in cryptorchid tissues was significantly lower than that in normal testes tissues (all p < 0.01). NF-κB expressed no difference in both conditions. The expressions of VEGF and NF-κB were observed in the cytoplasm of testicular Leydig cells and spermatogenic cells, but they were weak in the nucleus. EGFR and P53 were more positively expressed in the cytoplasm of these cells, with no positive expression in the nucleus. Conclusion: There were changes in the tissue morphology and structure of the cryptorchid testis, coupled with abnormally high expression of VEGF and P53 proteins in Erhualian pigs. We speculate that this may be an important limiting factor to fecundity during cryptorchidism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Penggang Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory in Universities of Jiangsu Province of China for Domestic Animal Germplasm Resources and Genetic Improvement, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Yiming Shao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Caihong Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Xiaoyang Lv
- International Joint Research Laboratory in Universities of Jiangsu Province of China for Domestic Animal Germplasm Resources and Genetic Improvement, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Seth Yaw Afedo
- Department of Animal Science, School of Agriculture, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast P.O. Box 5007, Ghana
| | - Wenbin Bao
- Key Laboratory for Animal Genetics, Breeding, Reproduction and Molecular Design of Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
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2
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Lesage M, Thomas M, Pécot T, Ly TK, Hinfray N, Beaudouin R, Neumann M, Lovell-Badge R, Bugeon J, Thermes V. An end-to-end pipeline based on open source deep learning tools for reliable analysis of complex 3D images of ovaries. Development 2023; 150:dev201185. [PMID: 36971372 DOI: 10.1242/dev.201185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Computational analysis of bio-images by deep learning (DL) algorithms has made exceptional progress in recent years and has become much more accessible to non-specialists with the development of ready-to-use tools. The study of oogenesis mechanisms and female reproductive success has also recently benefited from the development of efficient protocols for three-dimensional (3D) imaging of ovaries. Such datasets have a great potential for generating new quantitative data but are, however, complex to analyze due to the lack of efficient workflows for 3D image analysis. Here, we have integrated two existing open-source DL tools, Noise2Void and Cellpose, into an analysis pipeline dedicated to 3D follicular content analysis, which is available on Fiji. Our pipeline was developed on larvae and adult medaka ovaries but was also successfully applied to different types of ovaries (trout, zebrafish and mouse). Image enhancement, Cellpose segmentation and post-processing of labels enabled automatic and accurate quantification of these 3D images, which exhibited irregular fluorescent staining, low autofluorescence signal or heterogeneous follicles sizes. In the future, this pipeline will be useful for extensive cellular phenotyping in fish or mammals for developmental or toxicology studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manon Lesage
- INRAE, Fish Physiology and Genomics Institute, 16 Allee Henri Fabre, Rennes 35000, France
| | - Manon Thomas
- INRAE, Fish Physiology and Genomics Institute, 16 Allee Henri Fabre, Rennes 35000, France
| | - Thierry Pécot
- BIOSIT, UAR 3480 US 018, Université de Rennes, 2 rue Prof. Leon Bernard, Rennes 35042, France
| | - Tu-Ky Ly
- INERIS, UMR-I 02 SEBIO, Verneuil en Halatte 65550, France
| | | | - Remy Beaudouin
- INERIS, UMR-I 02 SEBIO, Verneuil en Halatte 65550, France
| | | | | | - Jérôme Bugeon
- INRAE, Fish Physiology and Genomics Institute, 16 Allee Henri Fabre, Rennes 35000, France
| | - Violette Thermes
- INRAE, Fish Physiology and Genomics Institute, 16 Allee Henri Fabre, Rennes 35000, France
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3
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Warille AA, Kocaman A, Elamin AA, Mohamed H, Elhaj AE, Altunkaynak BZ. Applications of various stereological tools for estimation of biological tissues. Anat Histol Embryol 2023; 52:127-134. [PMID: 36562319 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
To provide concise and brief important stereological application methods and techniques for estimating biological tissues. Stereology studies the quantity of biological tissue using little practice and the low price of counting and preparing tissue slices to obtain direct and accurate results. Since their establishment, the stereological techniques underwent much improvement, thus allowing more precise analysis of target structures using various approaches. Using stereological tools, advances in stereological techniques made the target tissues or organs represented by 2D instead of 3D dimensions. Process tools estimate volume, area and length. According to the exciting tissue and aims, the stereological tools perform differently. This review summarizes various stereological tools and techniques, providing brief information about the orientation method, slicer probe method, Delesse's principle, Cavalieri principle, disector, fractionator, nucleator, virtual cycloids and saucer, which are described in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aymen A Warille
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Adem Kocaman
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Abdalla A Elamin
- Department of Anatomy, RAK College of Medical Sciences, RAK Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hamza Mohamed
- Anatomy Department, College of Medicine, University of Ha'il, Hail, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abubaker El Elhaj
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
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4
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Luderer U, Lim J, Ortiz L, Nguyen JD, Shin JH, Allen BD, Liao LS, Malott K, Perraud V, Wingen LM, Arechavala RJ, Bliss B, Herman DA, Kleinman MT. Exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations of ambient fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) depletes the ovarian follicle reserve and causes sex-dependent cardiovascular changes in apolipoprotein E null mice. Part Fibre Toxicol 2022; 19:5. [PMID: 34996492 PMCID: PMC8740366 DOI: 10.1186/s12989-021-00445-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure accelerates atherosclerosis and contains known ovotoxic chemicals. However, effects of exposure to PM2.5 on the finite ovarian follicle pool have hardly been investigated, nor have interactions between ovarian and cardiovascular effects. We hypothesized that subchronic inhalation exposure to human-relevant concentrations of PM2.5 results in destruction of ovarian follicles via apoptosis induction, as well as accelerated recruitment of primordial follicles into the growing pool. Further, we hypothesized that destruction of ovarian follicles enhances the adverse cardiovascular effects of PM2.5 in females. RESULTS Hyperlipidemic apolipoprotein E (Apoe) null ovary-intact or ovariectomized female mice and testis-intact male mice were exposed to concentrated ambient PM2.5 or filtered air for 12 weeks, 5 days/week for 4 h/day using a versatile aerosol concentration enrichment system. Primordial, primary, and secondary ovarian follicle numbers were decreased by 45%, 40%, and 17%, respectively, in PM2.5-exposed ovary-intact mice compared to controls (P < 0.05). The percentage of primary follicles with granulosa cells positive for the mitosis marker Ki67 was increased in the ovaries from PM2.5-exposed females versus controls (P < 0.05), consistent with increased recruitment of primordial follicles into the growing pool. Exposure to PM2.5 increased the percentages of primary and secondary follicles with DNA damage, assessed by γH2AX immunostaining (P < 0.05). Exposure to PM2.5 increased the percentages of apoptotic antral follicles, determined by TUNEL and activated caspase 3 immunostaining (P < 0.05). Removal of the ovaries and PM2.5-exposure exacerbated the atherosclerotic effects of hyperlipidemia in females (P < 0.05). While there were statistically significant changes in blood pressure and heart rate variability in PM2.5-compared to Air-exposed gonad-intact males and females and ovariectomized females, the changes were not consistent between exposure years and assessment methods. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that subchronic PM2.5 exposure depletes the ovarian reserve by increasing recruitment of primordial follicles into the growing pool and increasing apoptosis of growing follicles. Further, PM2.5 exposure and removal of the ovaries each increase atherosclerosis progression in Apoe-/- females. Premature loss of ovarian function is associated with increased risk of osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's disease in women. Our results thus support possible links between PM2.5 exposure and other adverse health outcomes in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Luderer
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, 100 Theory Drive, Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92617 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, University of California Irvine, 100 Theory Drive, Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92617 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Jinhwan Lim
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, 100 Theory Drive, Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Laura Ortiz
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Johnny D. Nguyen
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Joyce H. Shin
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, 100 Theory Drive, Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92617 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Barrett D. Allen
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, 100 Theory Drive, Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Lisa S. Liao
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Kelli Malott
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, 100 Theory Drive, Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92617 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Veronique Perraud
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Lisa M. Wingen
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Rebecca J. Arechavala
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, 100 Theory Drive, Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92617 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Bishop Bliss
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, 100 Theory Drive, Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92617 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - David A. Herman
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
| | - Michael T. Kleinman
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, 100 Theory Drive, Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92617 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Center for Occupational and Environmental Health, University of California Irvine, 100 Theory Drive, Suite 100, Irvine, CA 92617 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617 USA
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5
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Razafintsalama-Bourdet M, Bah M, Amand G, Vienet-Lègue L, Pietin-Vialle C, Bry-Gauillard H, Pinto M, Pasquier M, Vernet T, Jung C, Levaillant JM, Massin N. Random antral follicle count performed on any day of the menstrual cycle has the same predictive value as AMH for good ovarian response in IVF cycles. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2021; 51:102233. [PMID: 34571198 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2021.102233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether the predictive value of AFC for ovarian response to stimulation for IVF depends on the day of the menstrual cycle when ultrasound is performed. METHODS 410 women undergoing their first IVF cycle were included. All the women had AFC performed twice. The first measurement, random AFC (r-AFC), was performed during the fertility workup whatever the day of their menstrual cycle. Three groups were constituted according to the period of ultrasound performance: at early follicular phase i.e., day 1 to day 6 (eFP-AFC); at mid follicular phase i.e., day 7 to 12 (mFP-AFC) and at luteal phase i.e., day 13 or after (LP-AFC). A second AFC measurement was performed before the start of the ovarian stimulation (SD1-AFC). AMH dosing was done in the early follicular phase. RESULTS Random AFC (r-AFC) was correlated to AMH (r = 0.69; p<0.001), SD1-AFC (r = 0.75; p<0.001) and number of oocytes retrieved (r = 0.49; p<0.001). When regarding AFC depending on the cycle day group, the correlation with AMH was 0.65, 0.66 and 0.85 for the eFP-AFC, the mFP-AFC and the LP-AFC respectively (all p were <0.001). The ROC analysis showed the same predictive value for good ovarian response (more than 6 oocytes retrieved) for the eFP-AFC, mFP-AFC and LP-AFC (AUC 0.73, 0.75 and 0.84 respectively; p = 0.28). The AUC of r-AFC (0.76) were similar to those of AMH (0.74) and SD1-AFC (0.74) (p = 0.21 and 0.92 respectively). CONCLUSION AFC is strongly correlated with AMH and highly predictive of good ovarian response during the whole menstrual cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Razafintsalama-Bourdet
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, Intercommunal Hospital- University Paris XII, Creteil, France
| | - M Bah
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, Intercommunal Hospital- University Paris XII, Creteil, France
| | - G Amand
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, Intercommunal Hospital- University Paris XII, Creteil, France
| | - L Vienet-Lègue
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, Intercommunal Hospital- University Paris XII, Creteil, France
| | - C Pietin-Vialle
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, Intercommunal Hospital- University Paris XII, Creteil, France
| | - H Bry-Gauillard
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, Intercommunal Hospital- University Paris XII, Creteil, France
| | - M Pinto
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, Intercommunal Hospital- University Paris XII, Creteil, France
| | - M Pasquier
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, Intercommunal Hospital- University Paris XII, Creteil, France
| | - T Vernet
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, Intercommunal Hospital- University Paris XII, Creteil, France
| | - C Jung
- Clinical Research Center, Intercommunal Hospital- University Paris XII, Creteil, France
| | - J M Levaillant
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, Intercommunal Hospital- University Paris XII, Creteil, France; Hopital privé Armand Brillard, Nogent sur Marne, France
| | - N Massin
- Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, Intercommunal Hospital- University Paris XII, Creteil, France.
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6
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Lim J, Ali S, Liao LS, Nguyen ES, Ortiz L, Reshel S, Luderer U. Antioxidant supplementation partially rescues accelerated ovarian follicle loss, but not oocyte quality, of glutathione-deficient mice†. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:1065-1079. [PMID: 31950131 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The tripeptide thiol antioxidant glutathione (GSH) has multiple physiological functions. Female mice lacking the modifier subunit of glutamate cysteine ligase (GCLM), the rate-limiting enzyme in GSH synthesis, have decreased GSH concentrations, ovarian oxidative stress, preimplantation embryonic mortality, and accelerated age-related decline in ovarian follicles. We hypothesized that supplementation with thiol antioxidants, N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), or α-lipoic acid (ALA) will rescue this phenotype. Gclm-/- and Gclm+/+ females received 0 or 80 mM NAC in drinking water from postnatal day (PND) 21-30; follicle growth was induced with equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) on PND 27, followed by an ovulatory dose of human CG and mating with a wild type male on PND 29 and zygote harvest 20 h after hCG. N-acetyl cysteine supplementation failed to rescue the low rate of second pronucleus formation in zygotes from Gclm-/- versus Gclm+/+ females. In the second study, Gclm-/- and Gclm+/+ females received diet containing 0, 150, or 600 mg/kg ALA beginning at weaning and were mated with wild type males from 8 to 20 weeks of age. α-Lipoic acid failed to rescue the decreased offspring production of Gclm-/- females. However, 150 mg/kg diet ALA partially rescued the accelerated decline in primordial follicles, as well as the increased recruitment of follicles into the growing pool and the increased percentages of follicles with γH2AX positive oocytes or granulosa cells of Gclm-/- females. We conclude that ovarian oxidative stress is the cause of accelerated primordial follicle decline, while GSH deficiency per se may be responsible for preimplantation embryonic mortality in Gclm-/- females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhwan Lim
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Samiha Ali
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Lisa S Liao
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Emily S Nguyen
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Laura Ortiz
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Samantha Reshel
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Ulrike Luderer
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, California, USA.,Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, California, USA.,Program in Public Health, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
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7
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Cornet-Bartolomé D, Barragán M, Zambelli F, Ferrer-Vaquer A, Tiscornia G, Balcells S, Rodriguez A, Grinberg D, Vassena R. Human oocyte meiotic maturation is associated with a specific profile of alternatively spliced transcript isoforms. Mol Reprod Dev 2021; 88:605-617. [PMID: 34374462 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The transition from a transcriptionally active state (GV) to a transcriptionally inactive state (mature MII oocytes) is required for the acquisition of oocyte developmental competence. We hypothesize that the expression of specific genes at the in vivo matured (MII) stage could be modulated by posttranscriptional mechanisms, particularly regulation of alternative splicing (AS). In this study, we examined the transcriptional activity of GV oocytes after ovarian stimulation followed by oocyte pick-up and the landscape of alternatively spliced isoforms in human MII oocytes. Individual oocytes were processed and analyzed for transcriptional activity (GV), gene expression (GV and MII), and AS signatures (GV and MII) on HTA 2.0 microarrays. Samples were grouped according to maturation stage, and then subgrouped according to women's age and antral follicular count (AFC); array results were validated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Differentially expressed genes between GV and MII oocytes clustered mainly in biological processes related to mitochondrial metabolism. Interestingly, 16 genes that were related to the regulation of transcription and mitochondrial translation showed differences in alternatively spliced isoform profiles despite not being differentially expressed between groups. Altogether, our results contribute to our understanding of the role of AS in oocyte developmental competence acquisition.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Cornet-Bartolomé
- EUGIN, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Genetics, Microbiology and Statistic, Universitat de Barcelona. CIBERER, IBUB, IRSJD, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Gustavo Tiscornia
- EUGIN, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro Ciencias del Mar, University of Algarve, Portugal
| | - Susanna Balcells
- Department of Genetics, Microbiology and Statistic, Universitat de Barcelona. CIBERER, IBUB, IRSJD, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Daniel Grinberg
- Department of Genetics, Microbiology and Statistic, Universitat de Barcelona. CIBERER, IBUB, IRSJD, Barcelona, Spain
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8
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Soygur B, Laird DJ. Ovary Development: Insights From a Three-Dimensional Imaging Revolution. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:698315. [PMID: 34381780 PMCID: PMC8351467 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.698315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The ovary is an indispensable unit of female reproduction and health. However, the study of ovarian function in mammals is hindered by unique challenges, which include the desynchronized development of oocytes, irregular distribution and vast size discrepancy of follicles, and dynamic tissue remodeling during each hormonal cycle. Overcoming the limitations of traditional histology, recent advances in optical tissue clearing and three-dimensional (3D) visualization offer an advanced platform to explore the architecture of intact organs at a single cell level and reveal new relationships and levels of organization. Here we summarize the development and function of ovarian compartments that have been delineated by conventional two-dimensional (2D) methods and the limits of what can be learned by these approaches. We compare types of optical tissue clearing, 3D analysis technologies, and their application to the mammalian ovary. We discuss how 3D modeling of the ovary has extended our knowledge and propose future directions to unravel ovarian structure toward therapeutic applications for ovarian disease and extending female reproductive lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Diana J. Laird
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Sciences, Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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9
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Luna SL, Brown DI, Kohama SG, Urbanski HF. Lack of effect of short-term DHEA supplementation on the perimenopausal ovary†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:1209-1216. [PMID: 32901819 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) hormonal supplementation can improve oocyte quality in women with diminished ovarian function. However, it is unclear whether DHEA supplementation can also enhance ovarian function during the perimenopause (i.e., when the number of follicles in the ovary has undergone a marked reduction). To address this question, we examined the impact of 2.5-months of daily 5-mg oral DHEA supplementation on the number of ovarian follicles and the concentration of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in perimenopausal rhesus macaques. Like women, these long-lived nonhuman primates have ~ 28-day menstrual cycles and eventually undergo menopause. They also show similar age-related neuroendocrine changes, including a marked decrease in circulating concentrations of DHEA and DHEA sulfate (DHEAS). Our experimental design involved the following three groups of animals (N = 6 per group): Young adult (mean age = 11.6 years), Old control (mean age = 23.1 years), and Old DHEA-treated (mean age = 23.5 years). Histological examination of the ovaries revealed a significant age-related decrease in the mean number of primordial follicles despite DHEA supplementation. Moreover, AMH concentrations within the ovaries and circulation, assessed by Western analysis and ELISA, respectively, showed significant age-related decreases that were not attenuated by DHEA supplementation. Taken together, these results fail to show a clear effect of short-term physiological DHEA supplementation on the perimenopausal ovary. However, they do not exclude the possibility that alternative DHEA supplementation paradigms (e.g., involving an earlier start date, longer duration and using pharmacological doses) may extend reproductive potential during aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selva L Luna
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, Oregon 97006, USA.,Escuela de Química y Farmacia, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Donald I Brown
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, Oregon 97006, USA.,Instituto de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Steven G Kohama
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, Oregon 97006, USA
| | - Henryk F Urbanski
- Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, Oregon 97006, USA.,Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239, USA
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10
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Bahmanpour S, Moradiyan E, Dehghani F, Zarei-Fard N. Chemoprotective effects of plasma derived from mice of different ages and genders on ovarian failure after cyclophosphamide treatment. J Ovarian Res 2020; 13:138. [PMID: 33239062 PMCID: PMC7690033 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-020-00735-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Premature ovarian failure is one of the major side effects of chemotherapy drugs. Blood plasma contains several factors that might lead to the repair of different tissues. Objective The chemoprotective effects of plasma derived from mice with different ages and genders were assessed on ovarian tissue in cyclophosphamide-treated mice. Methods Forty-two adult female mice were divided into six groups as follows: (A) control; (B) 0.9% sodium chloride as vehicle; (C) cyclophosphamide; (D) cyclophosphamide + young male blood plasma; (E) cyclophosphamide + old male blood plasma; (F) cyclophosphamide + young female blood plasma. Ovarian failure was induced by injecting cyclophosphamide. On the 1st day, three groups received simultaneous injections of 150 μL intraperitoneal and 70 μL intravenous plasma derived from mice of different ages and genders. Each plasma type (150 μL) was then injected intraperitoneally every other 3 days for 19 days. On day 21, the dissected ovaries were stained for stereological analysis. Also, estrogen and progesterone levels were measured. Results Cyclophosphamide had damaging effects on ovarian parameters and led to reduced hormone levels in comparison with the control group. However, treating with young female and, old male blood plasma, to a lesser degree, showed beneficial effects on the number of primordial follicles, pre-antral follicles, and granulosa cells. Also, these two treatments had protective effects on the volume of ovarian parameters as well as estrogen and progesterone levels in comparison with the cyclophosphamide group (P < 0.05). Conclusion Plasma derived from mice of different ages and genders can ameliorate premature ovarian failure against the adverse effects of cyclophosphamide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soghra Bahmanpour
- Anatomy Department, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Zand St., Shiraz, 7134845794, Iran
| | - Eisa Moradiyan
- Anatomy Department, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Zand St., Shiraz, 7134845794, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Dehghani
- Anatomy Department, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Zand St., Shiraz, 7134845794, Iran.,Histomorphometry and Stereology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Nehleh Zarei-Fard
- Anatomy Department, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Zand St., Shiraz, 7134845794, Iran.
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11
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Spatial and temporal changes in follicle distribution in the human ovarian cortex. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 42:375-383. [PMID: 33309389 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION How does follicle distribution evolve in the human ovarian cortex between the ages of 20 and 35 years? DESIGN Fragments of ovarian cortex from women undergoing unilateral oophorectomy for fertility preservation were obtained for quantitative histological assessment, including recording the two-dimensional coordinates of the follicles. Data were analysed using spatial statistical methods. RESULTS A total of 53 ovarian cortex tissue samples, containing 1-803 follicles each, were obtained from 14 women aged 20-35 years. Primordial and transitory follicles lay in a clustered manner in the human ovarian cortex, with an average cluster radius of around 270 µm (95% confidence interval 154-377 µm; n = 49). Follicle density declined with age (P = 0.006, n = 13), and the distance from the nearest neighbouring follicle increased (P = 0.004, n = 13). Cluster radius decreased with age (P = 0.02, n = 13), but the degree of clustering tended to increase (P = 0.11, n = 13). In the majority of the samples, follicles at different stages lay in different clusters (P < 0.05, n = 13). CONCLUSIONS This study shows that primordial and transitory follicles lie in different clusters in the human ovarian cortex. Spatio-temporal computer simulation suggests that interfollicular signals may hinder follicle loss and may therefore drive clustered follicle distribution. In clinical practice, the woman's age should be taken into account when assessing follicle density, as follicle distribution is increasingly clustered with advancing age.
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12
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Sarma UC, Winship AL, Hutt KJ. Comparison of methods for quantifying primordial follicles in the mouse ovary. J Ovarian Res 2020; 13:121. [PMID: 33054849 PMCID: PMC7560236 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-020-00724-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Accurate evaluation of primordial follicle numbers in mouse ovaries is an essential endpoint for studies investigating how endogenous and exogenous insults, such as maternal aging and chemotherapy, impact the ovarian reserve. In this study, we compared and contrasted two methods for counting healthy primordial follicles following exposure to cyclophosphamide (75 mg/kg), a well-established model of follicle depletion. The first was the fractionator/optical dissector technique, an unbiased, assumption-free stereological approach for quantification of primordial follicle numbers. While accurate, highly reproducible and sensitive, this method relies on specialist microscopy equipment and software, requires specific fixation, embedding and sectioning parameters to be followed, and is largely a manual process that is tedious and time-consuming. The second method was the more widely used serial section and direct count approach, which is relatively quick and easy. We also compared the impacts of different fixatives, embedding material and section thickness on the overall results for each method. Results Direct counts resulted in primordial follicle numbers that were significantly lower than those obtained by stereology, irrespective of fixation and embedding material. When applied to formalin fixed tissue, the direct count method did not detect differences in follicle numbers between saline and cyclophosphamide treated groups to the same degree of sensitivity as the gold standard stereology method (referred to as the Reference standard). However, when Bouin’s fixative was used, direct counts and stereology were comparable in their ability to detect follicle depletion caused by cyclophosphamide. Conclusions This work indicates that the direct count method can produce similar results to stereology when Bouin’s fixative is used instead of formalin. The findings presented here will assist others to select the most appropriate experimental approach for accurate follicle enumeration, depending on whether the primary objective of the study is to determine absolute primordial follicle numbers or relative differences between groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urooza C Sarma
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Level 3, Building 76, 19 Innovation walk, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.,Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Level 3, Building 76, 19 Innovation walk, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Amy L Winship
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Level 3, Building 76, 19 Innovation walk, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.,Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Level 3, Building 76, 19 Innovation walk, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Karla J Hutt
- Development and Stem Cells Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Level 3, Building 76, 19 Innovation walk, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia. .,Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Level 3, Building 76, 19 Innovation walk, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.
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13
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Abrahami N, Izhaki I, Younis JS. Is there a difference in ovarian reserve biomarkers and ovarian response between the right and left ovaries? Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 41:416-424. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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14
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İnik Ö, Ceyhan A, Balcıoğlu E, Ülker E. A new method for automatic counting of ovarian follicles on whole slide histological images based on convolutional neural network. Comput Biol Med 2019; 112:103350. [PMID: 31330319 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2019.103350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Revised: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The ovary is a complex endocrine organ that shows significant structural and functional changes in the female reproductive system over recurrent cycles. There are different types of follicles in the ovarian tissue. The reproductive potential of each individual depends on the numbers of these follicles. However, genetic mutations, toxins, and some specific drugs have an effect on follicles. To determine these effects, it is of great importance to count the follicles. The number of follicles in the ovary is usually counted manually by experts, which is a tedious, time-consuming and intense process. In some cases, the experts count the follicles in a subjective way due to their knowledge. In this study, for the first time, a method has been proposed for automatically counting the follicles of ovarian tissue. Our method primarily involves filter-based segmentation applied to whole slide histological images, based on a convolutional neural network (CNN). A new method is also proposed to eliminate the noise that occurs after the segmentation process and to determine the boundaries of the follicles. Finally, the follicles whose boundaries are determined are classified. To evaluate its performance, the results of the proposed method were compared with those obtained by two different experts and the results of the Faster R-CNN model. The number of follicles obtained by the proposed method was very close to the number of follicles counted by the experts. It was also found that the proposed method was much more successful than the Faster R-CNN model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Özkan İnik
- Department of Computer Engineering, Gaziosmanpaşa University, Tokat, Turkey.
| | - Ayşe Ceyhan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Esra Balcıoğlu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Erkan Ülker
- Department of Computer Engineering, Konya Technical University, Konya, Turkey
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15
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High-throughput ovarian follicle counting by an innovative deep learning approach. Sci Rep 2018; 8:13499. [PMID: 30202115 PMCID: PMC6131397 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-31883-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The evaluation of the number of mouse ovarian primordial follicles (PMF) can provide important information about ovarian function, regulation of folliculogenesis or the impact of chemotherapy on fertility. This counting, usually performed by specialized operators, is a tedious, time-consuming but indispensable procedure.The development and increasing use of deep machine learning algorithms promise to speed up and improve this process. Here, we present a new methodology of automatically detecting and counting PMF, using convolutional neural networks driven by labelled datasets and a sliding window algorithm to select test data. Trained from a database of 9 millions of images extracted from mouse ovaries, and tested over two ovaries (3 millions of images to classify and 2 000 follicles to detect), the algorithm processes the digitized histological slides of a completed ovary in less than one minute, dividing the usual processing time by a factor of about 30. It also outperforms the measurements made by a pathologist through optical detection. Its ability to correct label errors enables conducting an active learning process with the operator, improving the overall counting iteratively. These results could be suitable to adapt the methodology to the human ovarian follicles by transfer learning.
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16
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Thitaram C, Matchimakul P, Pongkan W, Tangphokhanon W, Maktrirat R, Khonmee J, Sathanawongs A, Kongtueng P, Nganvongpanit K. Histology of 24 organs from Asian elephant calves ( Elephas maximus). PeerJ 2018; 6:e4947. [PMID: 29915694 PMCID: PMC6004303 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.4947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Elephants are the largest and heaviest living terrestrial animals, but information on their histology is still lacking. This study provides a unique insight into the elephant's organs and also provides a comparison between juvenile Asian elephants and adult Asian elephants or other species. Here we report on the histological structure of 24 organs, including the skin, brain (cerebrum, cerebellar hemisphere, vermis, thalamus, midbrain), spinal cord, sciatic nerve, striated skeletal muscle, cardiac muscle, bone (flat bone and long bone), cartilage (hyaline cartilage and fibrocartilage), heart (right atrium, right ventricle), blood vessels (aorta, pulmonary artery and caudal vena cava), trunk, trachea, lung, tongue, esophagus, stomach, small intestine (duodenum, jejunum, ileum), large intestine (cecum, colon, rectum), liver and pancreas, kidney, ovary, uterus (body and horn) and spleen of two juvenile Asian elephants. Methods Tissue sections were stained with Harris's hematoxylin and eosin Y. Results While almost all structures were similar to those of other species or adult elephants, some structures were different from other mammalian species, such as: plexiform bone was found in flat bone only; a thin trachealismuscle was observed in the trachea; and no serous or mucinous glands were found in the submucosa of the trachea. Discussion Histological information from various organs can serve as an important foundation of basal data for future microanatomical studies, and help in the diagnosis and pathogenesis in sick elephants or those with an unknown cause of death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chatchote Thitaram
- Center of Excellence in Elephant and Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Pitchaya Matchimakul
- Center of Excellence in Veterinary Biosciences, Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Wanpitak Pongkan
- Center of Excellence in Veterinary Biosciences, Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Wasan Tangphokhanon
- Center of Excellence in Veterinary Biosciences, Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Raktham Maktrirat
- Center of Excellence in Veterinary Biosciences, Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Jaruwan Khonmee
- Center of Excellence in Veterinary Biosciences, Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Anucha Sathanawongs
- Center of Excellence in Veterinary Biosciences, Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Piyamat Kongtueng
- Central Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Korakot Nganvongpanit
- Center of Excellence in Veterinary Biosciences, Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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17
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Coelho Neto MA, Ludwin A, Borrell A, Benacerraf B, Dewailly D, da Silva Costa F, Condous G, Alcazar JL, Jokubkiene L, Guerriero S, Van den Bosch T, Martins WP. Counting ovarian antral follicles by ultrasound: a practical guide. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2018; 51:10-20. [PMID: 29080259 DOI: 10.1002/uog.18945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Revised: 09/23/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
This Consensus Opinion summarizes the main aspects of several techniques for performing ovarian antral follicle count (AFC), proposes a standardized report and provides recommendations for future research. AFC should be performed using a transvaginal ultrasound (US) probe with frequency ≥ 7 MHz. For training, we suggest a minimum of 20-40 supervised examinations. The operator should be able to adjust the machine settings in order to achieve the best contrast between follicular fluid and ovarian stroma. AFC may be evaluated using real-time two-dimensional (2D) US, stored 2D-US cine-loops and stored three-dimensional (3D) US datasets. Real-time 2D-US has the advantage of permitting additional maneuvers to determine whether an anechoic structure is a follicle, but may require a longer scanning time, particularly when there is a large number of follicles, resulting in more discomfort to the patient. 2D-US cine-loops have the advantages of reduced scanning time and the possibility for other observers to perform the count. The 3D-US technique requires US machines with 3D capability and the operators to receive additional training for acquisition/analysis, but has the same advantages as cine-loop and also allows application of different imaging techniques, such as volume contrast imaging, inversion mode and semi-automated techniques such as sonography-based automated volume calculation. In this Consensus Opinion, we make certain recommendations based on the available evidence. However, there is no strong evidence that any one method is better than another; the operator should choose the best method for counting ovarian follicles based on availability of resources and on their own preference and skill. More studies evaluating how to improve the reliability of AFC should be encouraged. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Coelho Neto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - A Ludwin
- Department of Gynecology and Oncology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - A Borrell
- BCNatal, Hospital Clinic Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - B Benacerraf
- Department of Radiology and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - D Dewailly
- CHU Lille, Department of Endocrine Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Hospital Jeanne de Flandre, Lille, France
| | - F da Silva Costa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University and Monash Ultrasound for Women, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - G Condous
- Acute Gynaecology, Early Pregnancy and Advanced Endosurgery Unit, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney; and Nepean Hospital, Penrith, Australia
| | - J L Alcazar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinica Universidad de Navarra, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - L Jokubkiene
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmo, Sweden
| | - S Guerriero
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - T Van den Bosch
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University Hospitals KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - W P Martins
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- SEMEAR Fertilidade, Reproductive Medicine, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
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18
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Gonzalez SM, da Silva CB, Lindquist AG, Bufalo I, Morotti F, Lisboa LA, Seneda M. Regional distribution and integrity of equine ovarian pre-antral follicles. Reprod Domest Anim 2017; 52:836-841. [PMID: 28580754 DOI: 10.1111/rda.12986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2016] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The goal of this study was to determine the distribution of pre-antral follicles in the ovarian parenchyma of mares. For Experiment 1, each ovary was cut longitudinally at the greater curvature, performing two hemiovaries. After that, six fragments from each hemiovary were obtained, resulting in 12 fragments, which were divided into the innermost region of the parenchyma, the middle region and the outermost region. All the three obtained sections were cut transversally to obtain two fragments from each one. For Experiment 2, each ovary also submitted to a longitudinal cut on the greater curvature, forming two hemiovaries. Each hemiovary was sectioned into four symmetrical fragments, resulting in eight fragments per ovary. The fragments were related as being near to or far from the ovulatory fossa. The fragments of both experiments were immediately fixed in Carnoy for 12 hr and kept in 70% ethanol for 24 hr. Follicles were classified according to the stages of development and for morphological integrity according to oocyte morphology and granulosa cells. After the histological assessment, a total of 1,130 follicles were visualized from Experiment 1, being 1,054 (93.3%) primordial follicles and 76 (4.7%) follicles in development. The innermost region had the highest percentage of pre-antral follicles compared to the other regions (p < .05). The middle and outermost regions showed higher percentages of intact primordial and developing follicles than the innermost region (p < .05). Considering Experiment 2, 938 follicles were found, being 894 (95.3%) primordial and 44 (4.7%) follicles in development. The region near the ovulatory fossa presented higher (58.7%; 551 of 938) follicular concentration compared to the region far from the ovulatory fossa (41.3%; 387 of 938; p < .05). As a conclusion, distribution of pre-antral follicles in the equine ovary has a specific pattern through the parenchyma. Also, the follicular integrity differed in the studied ovarian areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Gonzalez
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, University of Londrina, Parana, Brazil
| | - C B da Silva
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, University of Londrina, Parana, Brazil
| | - A G Lindquist
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, University of Londrina, Parana, Brazil
| | - I Bufalo
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, University of Londrina, Parana, Brazil
| | - F Morotti
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, University of Londrina, Parana, Brazil
| | - L A Lisboa
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, University of Londrina, Parana, Brazil
| | - M Seneda
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, University of Londrina, Parana, Brazil
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Altered state of primordial follicles in neonatal and early infantile rats due to maternal hypothyroidism: Light and electron microscopy approach. Micron 2016; 90:33-42. [PMID: 27569271 DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2016.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2016] [Revised: 08/19/2016] [Accepted: 08/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Thyroid hormones (TH) are one of the key factors for normal prenatal development in mammals. Previously, we showed that subclinical maternal hypothyroidism leads to premature atresia of ovarian follicles in female rat offspring in the pre-pubertal and pubertal periods. The influence of decreased concentration of TH on primordial follicles pool formation during neonatal and early infantile period of rat pups was not investigated previously. Maternal hypothyroidism during pregnancy has irreversible negative influence on primordial follicles pool formation and population of resting oocytes in female rat offspring. The study was done on neonatal and early infantile control (n-10) and hypothyroid (n-10) female rat pups derived from control (n-6) and propylthiouracil (PTU) treated pregnant dams (n-6), respectively. Ovaries of all pups were removed and processed for light and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Number of nests, oogonia and oocytes per nest, primordial, primary, secondary and preantral follicles were determined. Screening for overall calcium presence in ovarian tissue was done using Alizarin red staining. Morphology and volume density of nucleus, mitochondria and smooth endoplasmic reticulum (sER) in the oocytes in primordial follicles was also assessed. Caspase-3 and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL), both markers for apoptosis, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) for proliferation were determined in oocytes and granulosa cells in different type of follicles. In neonatal period, ovaries of hypothyroid pups had a decreased number of oogonia, oocytes and nests, an increased number of primordial follicles and a decreased number of primary and secondary follicles, while in early infantile period, increased number of primary, secondary and preantral follicles were found. Alizarin red staining was intense in hypothyroid neonatal rats that also had the highest content of dilated sER. Number of mitochondria with altered morphology in both groups of hypothyroid pups was increased. Apoptosis markers have not shown significant difference between groups but PCNA had an increased expression in the oocytes and granulosa cells in primordial follicles of hypothyroid rats. Light and electron microscopy analysis indicate that previously detected premature ovarian follicular atresia in pre-pubertal and pubertal hypothyroid rats is preceded with premature formation of primordial follicles followed by slight changes on sER and mitochondria in examined oocytes, and increased expression of PCNA.
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20
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Gharwan H, Lai C, Grant C, Dunleavy K, Steinberg SM, Shovlin M, Fojo T, Wilson WH. Female fertility following dose-adjusted EPOCH-R chemotherapy in primary mediastinal B-cell lymphomas. Leuk Lymphoma 2016; 57:1616-24. [PMID: 27183887 DOI: 10.3109/10428194.2015.1118476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
We assessed fertility/gonadal function in premenopausal women treated with dose-adjusted EPOCH-Rituximab for untreated primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma (PMBL). Eligible patents were ≤ 50 years and premenopausal. Serial reproductive histories were obtained and hormonal assays were performed on serum samples before, at the end of treatment and 4-18 months later. Twenty-eight eligible women had a median age (range) of 31 (21-50) years and were followed a median of 7.3 years. Of 23 patients who completed a questionnaire, 19 (83%) were and four were not menstruating prior to chemotherapy. Amenorrhea developed in 12 patients during chemotherapy. At > 1-year follow-up, 14/19 (74%) patients were menstruating, all < 35 years old, and six (43%) of these patients delivered healthy children. Hormonal assays showed ovarian dysfunction during chemotherapy in all patients with varying recovery at 4-18 months after treatment. Fertility was preserved in most women with ovarian failure confined to patients > 40 years old.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Gharwan
- a Lymphoid Malignancy Branch, Center for Cancer Research , National Cancer Institute , Bethesda , MD , USA
| | - Catherine Lai
- a Lymphoid Malignancy Branch, Center for Cancer Research , National Cancer Institute , Bethesda , MD , USA
| | - Cliona Grant
- a Lymphoid Malignancy Branch, Center for Cancer Research , National Cancer Institute , Bethesda , MD , USA
| | - Kieron Dunleavy
- a Lymphoid Malignancy Branch, Center for Cancer Research , National Cancer Institute , Bethesda , MD , USA
| | - Seth M Steinberg
- b Biostatistics and Data Management Section Center for Cancer Research , National Cancer Institute , Bethesda , MD , USA
| | - Margaret Shovlin
- a Lymphoid Malignancy Branch, Center for Cancer Research , National Cancer Institute , Bethesda , MD , USA
| | - Tito Fojo
- c Medical Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research , National Cancer Institute , Bethesda , MD , USA
| | - Wyndham H Wilson
- a Lymphoid Malignancy Branch, Center for Cancer Research , National Cancer Institute , Bethesda , MD , USA
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Ristić N, Severs W, Nestorović N, Jarić I, Manojlović-Stojanoski M, Trifunović S, Pendovski L, Milosević V. Effects of Prenatal Dexamethasone on the Rat Pituitary Gland and Gonadotropic Cells in Female Offspring. Cells Tissues Organs 2016; 201:148-58. [DOI: 10.1159/000443987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoids have a strong influence on growth and maturation of fetal organ systems, but overexposure to exogenous glucocorticoids may retard fetal growth and alter developmental processes in sensitive tissues. The aim of this study was to specifically determine whether prenatal exposure to dexamethasone (Dx) altered normal development and function of pituitary gonadotropic cells in neonatal, infant and peripubertal female offspring. On day 16 of pregnancy, rat dams received 1.0 mg Dx/kg body weight (BW) s.c., followed by 0.5 mg Dx/kg BW on days 17 and 18 of gestation. Control gravid females received the same volume of saline. Female offspring were sacrificed on days 5, 16 and 38 after delivery. The volume of the pituitary gland estimated using Cavalieri's principle was significantly reduced (p < 0.05). Using a fractionator-physical disector method, we found reduced total numbers of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) cells (p < 0.05), accompanied by a decrease (p < 0.05) in serum concentrations of FSH and LH, while the relative intensity of FSH and LH immunofluorescence remained unchanged in neonatal, infant and peripubertal female offspring prenatally exposed to Dx. The data document that overexposure to Dx during fetal development evokes developmental programming of the female reproductive system at the pituitary cellular level, which may be associated with impaired reproductive function.
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Gaytan F, Morales C, Leon S, Garcia-Galiano D, Roa J, Tena-Sempere M. Crowding and Follicular Fate: Spatial Determinants of Follicular Reserve and Activation of Follicular Growth in the Mammalian Ovary. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0144099. [PMID: 26642206 PMCID: PMC4671646 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0144099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2015] [Accepted: 11/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Initiation of growth of resting ovarian follicles is a key phenomenon for providing an adequate number of mature oocytes in each ovulation, while preventing premature exhaustion of primordial follicle reserve during the reproductive lifespan. Resting follicle dynamics strongly suggest that primordial follicles are under constant inhibitory influences, by mechanisms and factors whose nature remains ill defined. In this work, we aimed to assess the influence of spatial determinants, with special attention to clustering patterns and crowding, on the fate of early follicles in the adult mouse and human ovary. To this end, detailed histological and morphometric analyses, targeting resting and early growing follicles, were conducted in ovaries from mice, either wild type (WT) or genetically modified to lack kisspeptin receptor expression (Kiss1r KO), and healthy adult women. Kiss1r KO mice were studied as model of persistent hypogonadotropism and anovulation. Different qualitative and quantitative indices of the patterns of spatial distribution of resting and early growing follicles in the mouse and human ovary, including the Morisita’s index of clustering, were obtained. Our results show that resting primordial follicles display a clear-cut clustered pattern of spatial distribution in adult mouse and human ovaries, and that resting follicle aggrupation is inversely correlated with the proportion of follicles initiating growth and entering into the growing pool. As a whole, our data suggest that resting follicle crowding, defined by changes in density and clustered pattern of distribution, is a major determinant of follicular activation and the fate of ovarian reserve. Uneven follicle crowding would constitute the structural counterpart of the major humoral regulators of early follicular growth, with potential implications in ovarian ageing and pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Gaytan
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica (IMIBIC)/Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
- * E-mail: (FG); (MT-S)
| | | | - Silvia Leon
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica (IMIBIC)/Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - David Garcia-Galiano
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Juan Roa
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica (IMIBIC)/Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Manuel Tena-Sempere
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, University of Córdoba, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica (IMIBIC)/Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, 14004, Córdoba, Spain
- FiDiPro Program, Department of Physiology, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, FIN-20520, Turku, Finland
- * E-mail: (FG); (MT-S)
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Peck JD, Quaas AM, Craig LB, Soules MR, Klein NA, Hansen KR. Lifestyle factors associated with histologically derived human ovarian non-growing follicle count in reproductive age women. Hum Reprod 2015; 31:150-7. [PMID: 26497957 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2015] [Accepted: 10/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are lifestyle factors (smoking, BMI, alcohol use and oral contraceptive pill use) associated with the human ovarian reserve as determined by the total ovarian non-growing follicle number? SUMMARY ANSWER Light to moderate alcohol use was significantly associated with greater ovarian non-growing follicle (NGF) count, whereas other lifestyle factors were not significantly related. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY A single previous investigation has suggested that smoking and alcohol use are associated with lower ovarian follicle density. However, this investigation utilized follicle density as the outcome of interest rather than the estimated total ovarian NGF count. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This cross-sectional investigation included a convenience sample of premenopausal women from two different academic sites, the University of Washington (n = 37, from 1999-2004) and the University of Oklahoma (n = 73, from 2004-2013), undergoing incidental oophorectomy at the time of hysterectomy (total n = 110, age range 21-52 years). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Prior to undergoing oophorectomy, participants completed detailed questionnaires regarding lifestyle exposures. Following surgery, total ovarian NGF counts were determined with systematic random sampling rules and a validated fractionator/optical dissector technique. Associations between lifestyle factors and log-transformed ovarian follicle counts were determined using multivariable linear regression. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE After controlling for age, BMI, oral contraceptive pill (OCP) use, tobacco use and site of collection, cumulative alcohol use (measured in alcoholic drinks per day multiplied by years of drinking) was associated with ovarian NGF count. Women reporting light (>0 to <1 drink-years) and moderate (1-3 drink-years) alcohol use had greater NGF counts (β = 0.75, P = 0.04, and β = 1.00, P = 0.03; light and moderate use, respectively) as compared with non-users. Neither heavier alcohol use (>3 drink-years), BMI, OCP use, nor tobacco use were significantly associated with the ovarian NGF count. Similar patterns of association with moderate cumulative alcohol use were observed when evaluating associations with pre-antral follicles and total follicle counts. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION All participants in this convenience sample had a benign indication for hysterectomy, and therefore may not be broadly representative of the population without such an indication. Additionally, lifestyle factors were self-reported, and the sample size of the present investigation limits our ability to detect associations of smaller magnitude. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS While our findings are in disagreement with a single investigation that utilized human follicle density as the outcome of interest, they are consistent with many studies investigating the relationship between lifestyle factors and the age of spontaneous menopause. Furthermore, they suggest a mechanism that does not involve accelerated follicular atresia to explain the association between smoking and an earlier age of menopause. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This investigation was funded by NIA R29-HD37360-04 (N.A.K.) and OCAST HR04-115 (K.R.H.) and by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, Grant 1 U54GM104938 (J.D.P.). There is no conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer D Peck
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Alexander M Quaas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Section of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - LaTasha B Craig
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Section of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | | | | | - Karl R Hansen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Section of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
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Computer-generated ovaries to assist follicle counting experiments. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0120242. [PMID: 25812007 PMCID: PMC4374836 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0120242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2014] [Accepted: 01/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Precise estimation of the number of follicles in ovaries is of key importance in the field of reproductive biology, both from a developmental point of view, where follicle numbers are determined at specific time points, as well as from a therapeutic perspective, determining the adverse effects of environmental toxins and cancer chemotherapeutics on the reproductive system. The two main factors affecting follicle number estimates are the sampling method and the variation in follicle numbers within animals of the same strain, due to biological variability. This study aims at assessing the effect of these two factors, when estimating ovarian follicle numbers of neonatal mice. We developed computer algorithms, which generate models of neonatal mouse ovaries (simulated ovaries), with characteristics derived from experimental measurements already available in the published literature. The simulated ovaries are used to reproduce in-silico counting experiments based on unbiased stereological techniques; the proposed approach provides the necessary number of ovaries and sampling frequency to be used in the experiments given a specific biological variability and a desirable degree of accuracy. The simulated ovary is a novel, versatile tool which can be used in the planning phase of experiments to estimate the expected number of animals and workload, ensuring appropriate statistical power of the resulting measurements. Moreover, the idea of the simulated ovary can be applied to other organs made up of large numbers of individual functional units.
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25
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Iliodromiti S, Anderson RA, Nelson SM. Technical and performance characteristics of anti-Müllerian hormone and antral follicle count as biomarkers of ovarian response. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 21:698-710. [PMID: 25489055 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmu062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2014] [Accepted: 11/07/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stratified (individualized) medicine has been recognized as a key priority for policy makers and healthcare providers. The main principle of individualized care depends on utilizing patients' characteristics and biomarkers to predict prognosis, tailor intended treatment and predict treatment outcomes. In reproductive medicine a wide variety of biomarkers have been proposed as predictors of ovarian response; of these, anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and antral follicle count (AFC) are purported as exhibiting the most favourable analytical and performance characteristics. Previously AFC and AMH have been considered essentially interchangeable; however, recent trial data have questioned this postulation. The aim of this review is to present an analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of these biomarkers as predictors of ovarian response, using both physiological and technical perspectives. METHODS We have conducted a systematic search of the most recent (to May 2014) relevant literature and summarized the existing evidence. Articles written in a language other than English without an available English translation were excluded. RESULTS Both AMH values and AFC can be influenced by comparable technical, physiological and exogenous factors. AMH displays some variation within and between cycles, consistent with its physiological role in follicle development, and there are growing data on the impact of pharmacological treatments and pathological conditions but cycle-independent measurement is appropriate for clinical purposes. A range of issues with manual AMH assays may be resolving with the development of fully automated assays. Despite described standardization of its measurement technique, AFC is subject to marked inter- and intra-operator variability and the effects of external influences are likely to be comparable. Outwith some highly specialist centres, the intracyclic variation in AFC requires its measurement between Day 2 and 4 of the cycle. Observational studies suggest comparable performance characteristics for AMH and AFC in predicting poor and high ovarian response, but recent RCTs suggest markedly better performance for AMH. CONCLUSIONS The performance characteristics of both AMH and AFC for the prediction of ovarian response to exogenous gonadotrophins have been inflated by single site observational cohorts, resulting in the viewpoint that AMH and AFC exhibit equivalent performance characteristics. Large scale multicentre RCTs, with centralized assay performance, have demonstrated that AMH is substantially the more accurate and robust biomarker, probably reflecting difficulties with standardization of AFC determination. While AFC retains some advantages, particularly immediacy and accessibility, international standardization of AMH combined with a stable automated assay is likely to enhance its performance as the biomarker of choice in predicting the ovarian response in assisted conception.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Scott M Nelson
- School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G31 2ER, UK
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26
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Increases in interleukin-6 and interferon-gamma levels is progressive in immature rats with varicocele. Ir J Med Sci 2014; 184:531-7. [DOI: 10.1007/s11845-014-1167-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2013] [Accepted: 06/29/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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27
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Peigné M, Decanter C. Serum AMH level as a marker of acute and long-term effects of chemotherapy on the ovarian follicular content: a systematic review. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2014; 12:26. [PMID: 24666685 PMCID: PMC3987687 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-12-26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2013] [Accepted: 03/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a very sensitive indicator of the ovarian follicular content. Chemotherapeutic agents are notoriously ovariotoxic in that they damage follicles. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the interest of serum AMH variations in determining the acute and long-term effects of chemotherapy on the ovarian reserve. According to the PRISMA guidelines, searches were conducted on PubMed for all English language articles until December 2013. Fifteen articles that focused on dynamic variations of AMH levels before and after chemotherapy were selected. Cancer patients have significantly lower AMH after chemotherapy than age-matched controls. Longitudinal studies of AMH variations before, during and after chemotherapy provide information about the degree of follicle loss for each patient according to different chemotherapy regimens. Different patterns of AMH levels during the ovarian recovery phase make it possible to discriminate between high and low gonadotoxic chemotherapy protocols. In addition, pretreatment AMH levels are shown to predict the long-term ovarian function after the end of treatment. These results may help to better understand the ovarian toxicity mechanisms of chemotherapy and to predict the degree of the ovarian follicle loss. Therefore, it can be useful for fertility preservation strategies, fertility counseling and future family planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maëliss Peigné
- Department of Endocrine Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, CHRU, Lille 59037, France
| | - Christine Decanter
- Department of Endocrine Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine, Hôpital Jeanne de Flandre, CHRU, Lille 59037, France
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28
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Knowlton NS, Craig LB, Zavy MT, Hansen KR. Validation of the power model of ovarian nongrowing follicle depletion associated with aging in women. Fertil Steril 2014; 101:851-6. [PMID: 24424370 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2013] [Revised: 11/30/2013] [Accepted: 12/04/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To validate recently proposed models of ovarian nongrowing follicle (NGF) decay associated with aging within the context of an independent data set. DESIGN Prospective investigation. SETTING Academic medical center. PATIENT(S) Normal appearing ovaries collected from 52 women (age 28-51 years) undergoing oophorectomy for benign gynecologic indications. INTERVENTION(S) Determining ovarian NGF counts with systematic random sampling rules and a validated fractionator/optical disector technique. The goodness-of-fit of predicted NGF counts based on the power and double Gaussian models and those observed in the validation set was assessed with the calculation of the Akaike information criterion and R(2) values. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The goodness-of-fit between observed and expected ovarian NGF counts. RESULT(S) The power model was an excellent fit to the observed data. The average difference between the observed and expected NGF count was 0.161 (95% CI, -0.058, 0.327). In the present study population, the power model was a superior fit to the observed data compared with the double Gaussian model. CONCLUSION(S) This prospective investigation with an independent set of ovarian NGF counts validates the power model as an excellent characterization of the ovarian NGF decline associated with aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas S Knowlton
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - LaTasha B Craig
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Michael T Zavy
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Karl R Hansen
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
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29
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La Marca A, Grisendi V, Spada E, Argento C, Milani S, Plebani M, Seracchioli R, Volpe A. Reference values in ovarian response to controlled ovarian stimulation throughout the reproductive period. Gynecol Endocrinol 2014; 30:66-9. [PMID: 24303886 DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2013.854768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract The age-related decline in ovarian response to gonadotropins has been well known since the beginning of ovarian stimulation in IVF cycles and has been considered secondary to the age-related decline in ovarian reserve. The objective of this study was to establish reference values and to construct nomograms of ovarian response for any specific age to gonadotropins in IVF/ICSI cycles. We analyzed our database containing information on IVF cycles. According to inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 703 patients were selected. Among inclusion criteria, there were regular menstrual cycle, treatment with a long GnRH agonist protocol and starting follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) dose of at least 200 IU per day. To estimate the reference values of ovarian response, the CG-LMS method was used. A linear decline in the parameters of ovarian response with age was observed: the median number of oocytes decreases approximately by one every three years, and the median number of follicles >16 mm by one every eight years. The number of oocytes and growing follicles corresponding to the 5th, 25th, 50th, 75th and 95th centiles has been calculated. This study confirmed the well known negative relationship between ovarian response to FSH and female ageing and permitted the construction of nomograms of ovarian response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio La Marca
- Mother-Infant Department, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia , Modena , Italy
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30
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Noorafshan A, Ahmadi M, Mesbah SF, Karbalay-Doust S. Stereological study of the effects of letrozole and estradiol valerate treatment on the ovary of rats. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2013; 40:115-21. [PMID: 24179868 PMCID: PMC3811724 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2013.40.3.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2013] [Revised: 06/25/2013] [Accepted: 07/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Letrozole and estradiol valerate are used to treat some hormonally-responsive symptoms and also in modeling of the polycystic ovary syndrome. However, the stereological analysis of the ovary has received less attention. Estimation of the whole ovary volume using the Cavalieri method can be applied in any orientation desired, but estimation of the mean volume of the oocytes requires isotropic uniform random sectioning. Here, a combined method was developed for estimating the parameters. To our knowledge, no comparison has been made of the effects of letrozole and estradiol on the ovary. Methods Sixty rats were divided into 4 groups receiving estradiol (4 mg/kg), olive oil, letrozole (1 mg/kg), or normal saline. After 21 days, their ovaries were studied. Results Relative to the control group, the total volume of the ovary and the cortex increased in the letrozole-treated and estradiol-treated rats. In addition, the number of the preantral, antral, and granulosa cells decreased by 43% to 56% in the letrozole- and estradiol-treated rats. On average, a 19% increase was observed in the atretic oocytes of the letrozole-treated and estradiol-treated rats, but the mean oocyte volume decreased by 29% to 44% in letrozole- and estradiol-treated rats. Furthermore, the letrozole-treated rats showed a 5-fold and 7-fold increase in the volume of the cysts and corpus luteum, respectively. A 3-fold increase was found in the volume of both the cysts and corpus luteum in the estradiol group. Conclusion The structural changes of the ovary were most pronounced in the letrozole-treated animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Noorafshan
- Histomorphometry and Stereology Research Centre, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran. ; Anatomy Department, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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31
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Polymorphisms in gonadotropin and gonadotropin receptor genes as markers of ovarian reserve and response in in vitro fertilization. Fertil Steril 2013; 99:970-8.e1. [PMID: 23380184 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.01.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2012] [Revised: 01/04/2013] [Accepted: 01/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Since gonadotropins are the fundamental hormones that control ovarian activity, genetic polymorphisms may alter gonadal responsiveness to glycoproteins; hence they are important regulators of hormone activity at the target level. The establishment of the pool of primordial follicles takes place during fetal life and is mainly under genetic control. Consequently, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in gonadotropins and their receptors do not seem to be associated with any significant modification in the endowment of nongrowing follicles in the ovary. Indeed, the age at menopause, a biological characteristic strongly related to ovarian reserve, as well as markers of functional ovarian reserve such as anti-Müllerian hormone and antral follicle count, are not different in women with different genetic variants. Conversely, some polymorphisms in FSH receptor (FSHR) seem to be associated with modifications in ovarian activity. In particular, studies suggest that the Ser680 genotype for FSHR is a factor of relative resistance to FSH stimulation resulting in slightly higher FSH serum levels, thus leading to a prolonged duration of the menstrual cycle. Moreover, some FSHR gene polymorphisms show a positive association with ovarian response to exogenous gonadotropin administration, hence exhibiting some potential for a pharmacogenetic estimation of the FSH dosage in controlled ovarian stimulation. The study of SNPs of the FSHR gene is an interesting field of research that could provide us with new information about the way each woman responds to exogenous gonadotropin administration during ovulation induction.
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Ovarian primordial and nongrowing follicle counts according to the Stages of Reproductive Aging Workshop (STRAW) staging system. Menopause 2012; 19:164-71. [PMID: 22189385 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0b013e31823b0b2e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to characterize the ovarian primordial and nongrowing follicle number according to the Stages of Reproductive Aging Workshop (STRAW) staging system as defined by menstrual cycle characteristics. METHODS Normal ovaries were collected from 63 women (age 26-52 y) undergoing oophorectomy for benign indications. Before surgical operation, each participant completed a detailed questionnaire collecting information regarding menstrual cycle characteristics and was classified by bleeding patterns into STRAW stages -4, -3, -2, and -1. A single ovary was selected for the determination of ovarian primordial and total nongrowing follicle number using a validated fractionator/optical disector method. A subset of the participants (n = 43) underwent transvaginal ultrasound examination for the determination of the ovarian antral follicle count and serum measurements of follicle-stimulating hormone, estradiol, antimüllerian hormone, and inhibin B. All measurements were obtained within 2 weeks of surgical operation, irrespective of cycle day. RESULTS Significant differences were identified in ovarian primordial (P < 0.0001) and nongrowing follicle (P < 0.0001) counts across the STRAW stages. In post hoc testing, the differences in primordial follicle counts were significant between each of the STRAW stages. Significant differences were also identified in serum levels of antimüllerian hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and ovarian antral follicle count across the STRAW stages. CONCLUSIONS Progression through the STRAW stages as defined by menstrual cycle characteristics is associated with progressive and significant decreases in the ovarian primordial follicle number.
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Kerr JB, Brogan L, Myers M, Hutt KJ, Mladenovska T, Ricardo S, Hamza K, Scott CL, Strasser A, Findlay JK. The primordial follicle reserve is not renewed after chemical or γ-irradiation mediated depletion. Reproduction 2012; 143:469-76. [PMID: 22301887 DOI: 10.1530/rep-11-0430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Reports indicate that germ-line stem cells present in adult mice can rapidly generate new oocytes and contribute to the primordial follicle reserve following conditions of ovotoxic stress. We further investigated the hypothesis that adult mice have the capacity to generate new oocytes by monitoring primordial follicle numbers throughout postnatal life and following depletion of the primordial follicle reserve by exposure to doxorubicin (DXR), trichostatin A (TSA), or whole-body γ-irradiation. We show that primordial follicle number remains stable in adult C57BL/6 mice between the ages of 25 and 100 days. However, within 2 days of treatment with DXR or TSA, primordial follicle numbers had declined to 65 and 51% respectively (P<0.05-0.01 when compared to untreated controls), with no restoration of follicle numbers evident after 7 days for either treatment. Furthermore, ovaries from mice subjected to sterilizing doses of γ-irradiation (0.45 or 4.5 Gy) revealed complete ablation of all primordial follicles 5 days after treatment, with no indication of follicular renewal. We conclude that neo-folliculogenesis does not occur following chemical or γ-irradiation mediated depletion of the primordial follicle reserve.
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Affiliation(s)
- J B Kerr
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
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34
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Béranger R, Hoffmann P, Christin-Maitre S, Bonneterre V. Occupational exposures to chemicals as a possible etiology in premature ovarian failure: a critical analysis of the literature. Reprod Toxicol 2012; 33:269-79. [PMID: 22281303 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2012.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2011] [Revised: 12/15/2011] [Accepted: 01/10/2012] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Premature ovarian failure (POF) is a cause of infertility that affects about 1% of women under 40, and is considered as idiopathic in 75% of cases. An occupational chemical origin has been identified at least once with 2-bromopropane, but human studies are rare and experimental data are sparse. This review aims to carry out a critical synthesis of knowledge of the chemical agents likely to affect follicular stock in humans and/or animals, by direct toxicity to follicles, or by increasing their recruitments. Of 140 chemical agents (or groups) studied, 20 have been identified as potentially damaging to the ovarian reserve. For the majority of toxic agents, only experimental data are currently available. At least four of these agents are likely to lead to POF in descendents (ethylene glycol methyl ether; 2,2-bis(bromomethyl)-1,3-propanediol; benzo[a]pyrene; dimethylbenzantracene). We propose a strategy aiming to encourage progress in identifying occupational factors responsible for POF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rémi Béranger
- UJF-Grenoble 1/CNRS/TIMC-IMAG UMR 5525 (EPSP Team: Environnement et Prédiction de la Santé des Populations), Grenoble F-38041, France.
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35
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Stansfield FJ, Nöthling J, Ansari T. The distribution of small preantral follicles within the ovaries of prepubertal African elephants (Loxodonta africana). Anim Reprod Sci 2011; 129:96-103. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2011.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2011] [Revised: 10/10/2011] [Accepted: 10/15/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Zelinski MB, Murphy MK, Lawson MS, Jurisicova A, Pau KYF, Toscano NP, Jacob DS, Fanton JK, Casper RF, Dertinger SD, Tilly JL. In vivo delivery of FTY720 prevents radiation-induced ovarian failure and infertility in adult female nonhuman primates. Fertil Steril 2011; 95:1440-5.e1-7. [PMID: 21316047 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2010] [Revised: 01/03/2011] [Accepted: 01/04/2011] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), or the S1P mimetic FTY720 shields ovaries of adult female rhesus monkeys from damage caused by 15 Gy of targeted radiotherapy, allowing for the retention of long-term fertility, and to evaluate whether S1P protects human ovarian tissue (xenografted into mice) from radiation-induced damage. DESIGN Research animal study. SETTING Research laboratory and teaching hospital. PATIENT(S) Adult female rhesus macaques (8-14 years of age; n = 21) and two women (24 and 27 years of age) undergoing gynecologic surgery for benign reasons, after informed consent and approval. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Ovarian histologic analysis, ovarian reserve measurements, and fertility in mating trials. RESULT(S) Rapid ovarian failure was induced in female macaques by ovarian application of 15 Gy of radiation. Females given S1P or FTY720 by direct intraovarian cannulation for 1 week before ovarian irradiation rapidly resumed menstrual cycles because of maintenance of follicles, with greater beneficial effects achieved using FTY720. Monkeys given the S1P mimetic before ovarian irradiation also became pregnant in mating trials. Offspring conceived and delivered by radioprotected females developed normally and showed no evidence of genomic instability, as measured by micronucleus frequency in reticulocytes. Adult human ovarian cortical tissue xenografted into mice also exhibited a reduction in radiation-induced primordial oocyte depletion when preexposed to S1P. CONCLUSION(S) S1P and its analogs hold clinical promise as therapeutic agents to preserve ovarian function and fertility in female cancer patients exposed to cytotoxic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary B Zelinski
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Beaverton, Oregon
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Ochalski ME, Shuttleworth JJ, Chu T, Orwig KE. RETRACTED: Thalidomide treatment attenuates chemotherapy-induced gonadal toxicity. Fertil Steril 2011; 95:819-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2010.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2010] [Revised: 09/03/2010] [Accepted: 09/15/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Stansfield FJ, Picton HM, Nöthling J. Early primary-rather than primordial follicles constitute the main follicular reserve in the African elephant (Loxodonta africana). Anim Reprod Sci 2011; 123:112-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2010.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2010] [Revised: 10/19/2010] [Accepted: 11/02/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Hansen KR, Hodnett GM, Knowlton N, Craig LB. Correlation of ovarian reserve tests with histologically determined primordial follicle number. Fertil Steril 2010; 95:170-5. [PMID: 20522327 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2010.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 365] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2010] [Revised: 04/01/2010] [Accepted: 04/05/2010] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the relationship between clinical markers of ovarian reserve and the true ovarian reserve as determined by the ovarian primordial follicle number. DESIGN Prospective investigation. SETTING Academic medical center. PATIENT(S) Forty-two healthy women (aged 26-52 years) undergoing oophorectomy for benign gynecologic indications. INTERVENTION(S) Transvaginal ultrasound examination for the determination of the ovarian antral follicle count (AFC) and serum measurements of clinical markers of ovarian reserve. All measurements were obtained within 2 weeks of surgery, irrespective of cycle day. Ovarian primordial follicle count was then determined using a validated fractionator/optical disector method. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Univariate and partial correlations between ovarian reserve markers and ovarian primordial follicle count. RESULT(S) There were significant correlations between the ovarian primordial follicle count and AFC (r=0.78), anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH; r=0.72), FSH (r=-0.32), inhibin B (r=0.40), and chronological age (r=-0.80). After adjusting for age, significant correlations were identified between the ovarian primordial follicle count and AFC (r=0.53) and AMH (r=0.48). CONCLUSION(S) The ovarian AFC and serum levels of AMH correlate with the ovarian primordial follicle number even after adjustment for chronological age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl R Hansen
- Section of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73190, USA.
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Ruoss C, Tadros A, O'Shea T, McFarlane J, Almahbobi G. Ovarian follicle development in Booroola sheep exhibiting impaired bone morphogenetic protein signalling pathway. Reproduction 2009; 138:689-96. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-09-0190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The role of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) in the regulation of ovarian function has been extensively investigated but the mechanism of regulation is not well understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of mutation in the BMP receptor in Booroola sheep on the number of primordial follicles and rate of follicle recruitment in comparison with that in normal merino sheep in vivo. Whole sheep ovaries at the time of birth, 1.5 and 5 years old were collected and processed for the follicle quantification, using computerised stereological methods and statistical analyses. At birth, the total number of primordial follicles in Booroola sheep was significantly lower than in merino sheep. At 1.5 and 5 years, a reversed pattern in favour of Booroola ewes was seen with significantly more primordial follicles than merino. In parallel, the rate of primordial follicle recruitment to developing cohort was substantially lower in Booroola ewes with only 51 and 66% of primordial follicle consumption at 1.5 and 5 years respectively compared to 92 and 97% in merino ewes. On other hand, the mean numbers of developing primary follicles were smaller in Booroola sheep at the time of birth, yet, Booroola ewes possess more primary follicles than merino at 1.5 years. These findings suggest that attenuation of the intraovarian signalling pathway of BMPs may in fact be a successful means of rationalising follicle consumption, preventing unnecessary loss of follicles from the initial primordial follicle pool, hence increasing reproductive longevity and fertility.
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Broekmans FJM, de Ziegler D, Howles CM, Gougeon A, Trew G, Olivennes F. The antral follicle count: practical recommendations for better standardization. Fertil Steril 2009; 94:1044-51. [PMID: 19589513 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.04.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 222] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2008] [Revised: 04/22/2009] [Accepted: 04/22/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide recommendations for the standardized use of the Antral follicle count (AFC) which is used to predict ovarian response to gonadotrophin stimulation during assisted reproductive technology treatment. However, the nature of the follicles that are visualized by ultrasound and the competence of the oocytes held within are largely unknown. In addition, there is considerable variability in the clinical definitions and technical methods used to count and measure antral follicles in both published studies and clinical practice. DESIGN AND SETTING In December 2007, specialist reproductive medicine clinicians and scientists attended a workshop in an effort to address these issues. Literature concerning the physiology and measurement of ovarian antral follicles was reviewed, clinical and technical considerations regarding antral follicle measurement were discussed, and an operational definition of AFC was developed. PATIENT(S) None. INTERVENTION(S) None. OUTCOME MEASURES Simple recommendations were established for the standardization of AFC assessment in routine clinical practice. The basic clinical and technical requirements required for AFC evaluation were agreed upon, and a systematic method of measuring and counting antral follicles in routine practice was proposed. CONCLUSION(S) The use of a standardized approach according to the practical recommendations for antral follicle counting as presented is encouraged in future clinical trials and routine practice. The authors also advocate a systematic evaluation of these recommendations as standardized study data become available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank J M Broekmans
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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RISTIĆ N, NESTOROVIĆ N, MANOJLOVIĆ-STOJANOSKI M, FILIPOVIĆ B, ŠOŠIĆ-JURJEVIĆ B, MILOŠEVIĆ V, SEKULIĆ M. Maternal dexamethasone treatment reduces ovarian follicle number in neonatal rat offspring. J Microsc 2008; 232:549-57. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2818.2008.02117.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Selesniemi K, Lee HJ, Tilly JL. Moderate caloric restriction initiated in rodents during adulthood sustains function of the female reproductive axis into advanced chronological age. Aging Cell 2008; 7:622-9. [PMID: 18549458 PMCID: PMC2990913 DOI: 10.1111/j.1474-9726.2008.00409.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related ovarian failure in women heralds the transition into postmenopausal life, which is characterized by a loss of fertility and increased risk for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and cognitive dysfunction. Unfortunately, there are no options available for delaying loss of ovarian function with age in humans. Rodent studies have shown that caloric restriction (CR) can extend female fertile lifespan; however, much of this work initiated CR at weaning, which causes stunted adolescent growth and a delayed onset of sexual maturation. Herein we tested in mice if CR initiated in adulthood could delay reproductive aging. After 4 months of CR, the ovarian follicle reserve was doubled compared to ad libitum (AL)-fed age-matched controls, which in mating trials exhibited a loss of fertility by 15.5 months of age. In CR females returned to AL feeding at 15.5 months of age, approximately one-half remained fertile for 6 additional months and one-third continued to deliver offspring through 23 months of age. Notably, fecundity of CR-then-AL-fed females and postnatal offspring survival rates were dramatically improved compared with aging AL-fed controls. For example, between 10 and 23 months of age, only 22% of the 54 offspring delivered by AL-fed females survived. In contrast, over 73% of the 94 pups delivered by 15.5- to 23-month-old CR-then-AL-fed mice survived without any overt complications. These data indicate that in mice adult-onset CR maintains function of the female reproductive axis into advanced age and dramatically improves postnatal survival of offspring delivered by aged females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaisa Selesniemi
- Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Vincent OB/GYN Service, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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Forabosco A, Sforza C. Reply: Counting ovarian follicles is not without its challenges. Fertil Steril 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.02.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Hansen KR, Soules MR. Counting ovarian follicles is not without its challenges. Fertil Steril 2008; 89:1028-9; author reply 1029. [PMID: 18325502 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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