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Hood RB, Everson TM, Ford JB, Hauser R, Knight A, Smith AK, Gaskins AJ. Epigenetic age acceleration in follicular fluid and markers of ovarian response among women undergoing IVF. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:2003-2009. [PMID: 38890131 PMCID: PMC11373381 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae136] [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: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are markers of epigenetic age acceleration in follicular fluid associated with outcomes of ovarian stimulation? SUMMARY ANSWER Increased epigenetic age acceleration of follicular fluid using the Horvath clock, but not other epigenetic clocks (GrimAge and Granulosa Cell), was associated with lower peak estradiol levels and decreased number of total and mature oocytes. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In granulosa cells, there are inconsistent findings between epigenetic age acceleration and ovarian response outcomes. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Our study included 61 women undergoing IVF at an academic fertility clinic in the New England area who were part of the Environment and Reproductive Health Study (2006-2016). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Participants provided a follicular fluid sample during oocyte retrieval. DNA methylation of follicular fluid was assessed using a genome-wide methylation screening tool. Three established epigenetic clocks (Horvath, GrimAge, and Granulosa Cell) were used to predict DNA-methylation-based epigenetic age. To calculate the age acceleration, we regressed epigenetic age on chronological age and extracted the residuals. The association between epigenetic age acceleration and ovarian response outcomes (peak estradiol levels, follicle stimulation hormone, number of total, and mature oocytes) was assessed using linear and Poisson regression adjusted for chronological age, three surrogate variables (to account for cellular heterogeneity), race, smoking status, initial infertility diagnosis, and stimulation protocol. MAIN RESULTS AND ROLE OF CHANCE Compared to the median chronological age of our participants (34 years), the Horvath clock predicted, on an average, a younger epigenetic age (median: 24.2 years) while the GrimAge (median: 38.6 years) and Granulosa Cell (median: 39.0 years) clocks predicted, on an average, an older epigenetic age. Age acceleration based on the Horvath clock was associated with lower peak estradiol levels (-819.4 unit decrease in peak estradiol levels per standard deviation increase; 95% CI: -1265.7, -373.1) and fewer total (% change in total oocytes retrieved per standard deviation increase: -21.8%; 95% CI: -37.1%, -2.8%) and mature oocytes retrieved (% change in mature oocytes retrieved per standard deviation increase: -23.8%; 95% CI: -39.9%, -3.4%). The age acceleration based on the two other epigenetic clocks was not associated with markers of ovarian response. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Our sample size was small and we did not specifically isolate granulosa cells from follicular fluid samples so our samples could have included mixed cell types. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our results highlight that certain epigenetic clocks may be predictive of ovarian stimulation outcomes when applied to follicular fluid; however, the inconsistent findings for specific clocks across studies indicate a need for further research to better understand the clinical utility of epigenetic clocks to improve IVF treatment. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study was supported by grants ES009718, ES022955, ES000002, and ES026648 from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) and a pilot grant from the NIEHS-funded HERCULES Center at Emory University (P30 ES019776). RBH was supported by the Emory University NIH Training Grant (T32-ES012870). TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert B Hood
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Todd M Everson
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jennifer B Ford
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Russ Hauser
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anna Knight
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Alicia K Smith
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Audrey J Gaskins
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Giacomini E, Pagliardini L, Minetto S, Pinna M, Kleeman F, Bonesi F, Makieva S, Pavone V, Reschini M, Papaleo E, Candiani M, Somigliana E, Viganò P. The relationship between CYP19A1 gene expression in luteinized granulosa cells and follicular estradiol output in women with endometriosis. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2024; 237:106439. [PMID: 38048918 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2023.106439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis was claimed to negatively affect the intrafollicular environment, hindering oocyte competence. Previous studies evaluated expression levels of cytochrome P450 aromatase (CYP19A) in granulosa and cumulus oophorus cells collected from endometriosis women, but results are controversial. To further investigate the intrafollicular environment whose alteration may potentially disturb ovarian steroidogenesis in endometriosis, gene expression of CYP19A and of its upstream enzymes, StAR and 3βHSD was assessed in luteinized granulosa cells isolated from follicular fluids (FF) collected during Assisted Reproduction Technology (ART) procedures in women with stage III-IV disease and from subjects without the condition. In a subgroup of patients, cumulus oophorus cells (COCs) were also assessed for CYP19A, StAR and 3βHSD gene expression. No difference in mRNA expression of CYP19A1, StAR and 3βHSD in both granulosa cells and COCs was observed between the two groups of patients. No significant difference was also found between estradiol FF levels detected in endometriosis patients (median=873, IQR=522-1221 ng/ml)) and control patients (median=878, IQR=609-1137 ng/ml). To gain more insight into the intrafollicular regulation of CYP19A in patients with endometriosis, associations between expression of the analyzed genes, systemic and follicular 17β-estradiol levels and ART outcomes were assessed. While in the control group, levels of CYP19A1, StAR and 3βHSD transcripts significantly correlated with follicular estradiol levels (adjusted R² of 0.60), no significant association was detected in affected women (adjusted R² of 0.23). After stratification of the populations based on the presence of the disease, CYP19A1 expression was shown to correlate with the number of oocytes retrieved [β:- 1.214;95%CI: - 2.085 - (-0.343); p = 0.007] in the control group while this association was not present in patients with endometriosis [β:- 0.003; 95%CI:- 0.468-0.461; p = 0.988)]. These results do not support data from the literature indicating a reduced aromatase expression in granulosa cells of affected women, but they highlight a potential subtle mechanism affecting the ovulation process in these women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Giacomini
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Pagliardini
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
| | - Sabrina Minetto
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Monica Pinna
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Fabiola Kleeman
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Bonesi
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Sofia Makieva
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Pavone
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Reschini
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Enrico Papaleo
- Centro Scienze della Natalità, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Candiani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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Raad G, Tanios J, Serdarogullari M, Bazzi M, Mourad Y, Azoury J, Yarkiner Z, Liperis G, Fakih F, Fakih C. Mature oocyte dysmorphisms may be associated with progesterone levels, mitochondrial DNA content, and vitality in luteal granulosa cells. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:795-813. [PMID: 38363455 PMCID: PMC10957819 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03053-5] [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: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify whether follicular environment parameters are associated with mature oocyte quality, embryological and clinical outcomes. METHODS This retrospective study examined 303 mature oocytes from 51 infertile women undergoing ICSI cycles between May 2018 and June 2021. Exclusion criteria consisted of advanced maternal age (> 36 years old), premature ovarian failure, obesity in women, or use of frozen gametes. Luteal granulosa cells (LGCs) were analyzed for mitochondrial DNA/genomic (g) DNA ratio and vitality. The relationships between hormone levels in the follicular fluid and oocyte features were assessed. Quantitative morphometric measurements of mature oocytes were assessed, and the association of LGC parameters and oocyte features on live birth rate after single embryo transfer was examined. RESULTS Results indicated an inverse correlation between the mtDNA/gDNA ratio of LGCs and the size of polar body I (PBI). A 4.0% decrease in PBI size was observed with each one-unit increase in the ratio (p = 0.04). Furthermore, a 1% increase in LGC vitality was linked to a 1.3% decrease in fragmented PBI (p = 0.03), and a 1 ng/mL increase in progesterone levels was associated with a 0.1% rise in oocytes with small inclusions (p = 0.015). Associations were drawn among LGC characteristics, perivitelline space (PVS) debris, cytoplasmic inclusions, PBI integrity, and progesterone levels. Certain dysmorphisms in mature oocytes were associated with embryo morphokinetics; however, live birth rates were not associated with follicular parameters and oocyte quality characteristics. CONCLUSION Follicular markers may be associated with mature oocyte quality features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georges Raad
- Al Hadi Laboratory and Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
- Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK), Jounieh, Lebanon
| | | | - Munevver Serdarogullari
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Cyprus International University, Northern Cyprus Via Mersin 10, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Marwa Bazzi
- Al Hadi Laboratory and Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Youmna Mourad
- Al Hadi Laboratory and Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Joseph Azoury
- Azoury IVF Clinic, ObGyn and Infertility, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Zalihe Yarkiner
- Faculty of Arts and Sciences-Department of Basic Sciences and Humanities, Cyprus International University, Northern Cyprus Via Mersin 10, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Georgios Liperis
- Westmead Fertility Centre, Institute of Reproductive Medicine, University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia.
| | - Fadi Fakih
- Al Hadi Laboratory and Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Chadi Fakih
- Al Hadi Laboratory and Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
- Faculty of Medicine, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
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Höfner M, Eubler K, Herrmann C, Berg U, Berg D, Welter H, Imhof A, Forné I, Mayerhofer A. Reduced oxygen concentrations regulate the phenotype and function of human granulosa cells in vitro and cause a diminished steroidogenic but increased inflammatory cellular reaction. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 30:gaad049. [PMID: 38128016 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad049] [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: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxygen (O2) concentrations have recently been discussed as important regulators of ovarian cells. Human IVF-derived granulosa cells (human GCs) can be maintained in vitro and are a widely used cellular model for the human ovary. Typically, GCs are cultured at atmospheric O2 levels (approximately around 20%), yet the O2 conditions in vivo, especially in the preovulatory follicle, are estimated to be much lower. Therefore, we comprehensively evaluated the consequences of atmospheric versus hypoxic (1% O2) conditions for 4 days on human GCs. We found lower cellular RNA and protein levels but unchanged cell numbers at 1% O2, indicating reduced transcriptional and/or translational activity. A proteomic analysis showed that 391 proteins were indeed decreased, yet 133 proteins were increased under hypoxic conditions. According to gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis, pathways associated with metabolic processes, for example amino acid-catabolic-processes, mitochondrial protein biosynthesis, and steroid biosynthesis, were downregulated. Pathways associated with glycolysis, chemical homeostasis, cellular response to hypoxia, and actin filament bundle assembly were upregulated. In accordance with lower CYP11A1 (a cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme) levels, progesterone release was decreased. A proteome profiler, as well as IL-6 and IL-8 ELISA assays, revealed that hypoxia led to increased secretion of pro-inflammatory and angiogenic factors. Immunofluorescence studies showed nuclear localization of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF1α) in human GCs upon acute (2 h) exposure to 1% O2 but not in cells exposed to 1% O2 for 4 days. Hence, the role of HIF1α may be restricted to initiation of the hypoxic response in human GCs. The results provide a detailed picture of hypoxia-induced phenotypic changes in human GCs and reveal that chronically low O2 conditions inhibit the steroidogenic but promote the inflammatory phenotype of these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Höfner
- Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU), Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Katja Eubler
- Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU), Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Carola Herrmann
- Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU), Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Ulrike Berg
- Fertility Centre A.R.T., Bogenhausen, Munich, Germany
| | - Dieter Berg
- Fertility Centre A.R.T., Bogenhausen, Munich, Germany
| | - Harald Welter
- Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU), Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Axel Imhof
- Protein Analysis Unit, BMC, Faculty of Medicine, LMU, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Ignasi Forné
- Protein Analysis Unit, BMC, Faculty of Medicine, LMU, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Artur Mayerhofer
- Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU), Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
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Krysta-Matter AE, Riepsamen AH, Lien S, Wong WYT, Richani D, Kilani S, Harrison CA, Mallitt KA, Ledger WL, Robertson DM, Gilchrist RB. Application of specific ELISAs for BMP15 and GDF9 to cumulus cell extracts from infertile women. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2023; 578:112049. [PMID: 37666445 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.112049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) and growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) are oocyte-specific paracrine factors which regulate ovarian cumulus cell (CC) functions. This study aimed to investigate if BMP15 and GDF9 bound to CCs can be characterized, quantified, and show an association with IVF outcomes in infertile women. BMP15 and GDF9 ELISAs were validated and applied to discarded CC extracts. Pooled CCs from individual patients were collected from 120 (cohort 1; BMP15 only) and 81 infertility patients (cohort 2; BMP15 and GDF9) undergoing superovulation. BMP15 and GDF9 levels expressed per CC DNA were correlated with maternal age, clinical and embryology data. Total BMP15 and GDF9 were highly correlated with each other (r = 0.9, p < 0.001). The GDF9:BMP15 ratio was unrelated to oocyte number or age. BMP15/CC DNA and GDF9/CC DNA were unaffected by the type of superovulation and were not related to oocyte/embryo outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- A E Krysta-Matter
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia; IVF Australia, Virtus Health, Alexandria, New South Wales, 2035, Australia
| | - A H Riepsamen
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - S Lien
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - W Y T Wong
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - D Richani
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - S Kilani
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia; IVF Australia, Virtus Health, Alexandria, New South Wales, 2035, Australia
| | - C A Harrison
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Victoria, 3800, Australia
| | - K A Mallitt
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia; Centre for Big Data Research in Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - W L Ledger
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia; IVF Australia, Virtus Health, Alexandria, New South Wales, 2035, Australia
| | - D M Robertson
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - R B Gilchrist
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia.
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Tabandeh MR, Jozaie S, Ghotbedin Z, Gorani S. Dimethyl itaconic acid improves viability and steroidogenesis and suppresses cytokine production in LPS-treated bovine ovarian granulosa cells by regulating TLR4/nfkβ, NLRP3, JNK signaling pathways. Res Vet Sci 2022; 152:89-98. [PMID: 35933803 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2022.07.024] [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: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The stimulation of pro-inflammatory pathways by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) endotoxins is a key player in the pathological mechanisms involved in the development of ovarian dysfunctions in dairy cows. Dimethyl itaconate acid (DMIA) is a novel immunometabolite that has recently emerged as a regulator of inflammatory responses in mammals. The present study was undertaken to determine the anti-inflammatory effects of DMIA on bovine granulosa cells (GCs) and to explore its possible molecular mechanisms. The ovarian GCs were obtained from small follicles of dairy cows. The GCs were stimulated with 1 μg/mL LPS for 4 h and then treated with 250 μM DMIA for 12 h. The viability, production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, activation of inflammatory signaling pathways and synthesis of steroid hormones were evaluated in treated GCs. Our results showed that DMIA reduced the inflammatory responses in LPS stimulated GCs by down-regulating the expression of nod-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 inflammasome, and toll-like receptor 4 and by suppressing the phosphorylation of nuclear factor kappa B and c-Jun N-terminal kinase proteins. DMIA also attenuated the increased production of pro inflammatory cytokines (interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin 1 beta (p < 0.01) in LPS stimulated GCs. Exposure of LPS stimulated GCs to DMIA improved the impaired steroidogenesis by up-regulation of steroid synthesis genes including 3-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, follicle stimulating hormone receptor and cytochrome P450 aromatase. The results of the present study highlight the potential role of itaconic acid for the improvement of GCs inflammation in dairy cows with ovarian dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Reza Tabandeh
- Department of Basic Sciences, Division of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran.
| | - Sadegh Jozaie
- Department of Basic Sciences, Division of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Zohre Ghotbedin
- Department of Basic Sciences, Division of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Saad Gorani
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
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Yang X, Wang Q, Wang Y, Song T, Zheng Y, Wang W, Shi Y. LRH-1 high expression in the ovarian granulosa cells of PCOS patients. Endocrine 2021; 74:413-420. [PMID: 34129175 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-021-02774-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is considered one of the most common endocrine disorders with heterogeneity. There are also reports that liver receptor homolog 1 [LRH-1 or nuclear receptor subfamily 5 group A member 2] plays an important role in the reproductive system. But up to now, there are no reports related to the link with PCOS and LRH-1. In this study, we aimed to detect the LRH-1 expression in the ovarian granulosa cell (GC) of PCOS patients and explore the potential relationship between LRH-1 and PCOS. METHODS In all, 146 follicular fluid samples were collected in this study, including 72 from PCOS patients and 74 from control patients who underwent intracytoplasmic sperm injection or in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer. The ovarian GCs were extracted from the patient's follicular fluid by magnetic-activated cell sorting method, and real-time quantitative PCR was used to measure the expression of LRH-1 in ovarian GCs. Then we analyzed the correlation between the expression level of LRH-1 and the clinical characteristics of the patient by using Pearson Correlation analysis. RESULTS The expression of LRH-1 was significantly higher in PCOS patients ovarian GCs than that in the control patients [(1.38 ± 0.47) vs (1.03 ± 0.32), t = 5.327, p < 0.0001], and it was positively correlated with antral follicles counting (r = 0.3607, p < 0.0001) and the serum anti-Mullerian hormone (r = 0.2662, p = 0.0012), luteotropic hormone (r = 0.2518, p = 0.0022), testosterone (r = 0.2794, p = 0.0006) in all patients. No statistical significance between LRH-1 and body mass index, follicle-stimulating hormone, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, progesterone. CONCLUSIONS Compared with the control group, we found that LRH-1 was highly expressed in the ovarian GCs of PCOS patients. Our study has revealed the relationship between the LRH-1 expression and PCOS, which suggested that LRH-1 may play an important role in ovulation disorders. While this finding provided new ideas for the study of pathogenesis, it also provided a theoretical basis for the clinical diagnosis and treatment for PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Qiumin Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Tian Song
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Yanjun Zheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Wenqi Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Yuhua Shi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China.
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La T, Chen S, Guo T, Zhao XH, Teng L, Li D, Carnell M, Zhang YY, Feng YC, Cole N, Brown AC, Zhang D, Dong Q, Wang JY, Cao H, Liu T, Thorne RF, Shao FM, Zhang XD, Jin L. Visualization of endogenous p27 and Ki67 reveals the importance of a c-Myc-driven metabolic switch in promoting survival of quiescent cancer cells. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:9605-9622. [PMID: 34646389 PMCID: PMC8490506 DOI: 10.7150/thno.63763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Recurrent and metastatic cancers often undergo a period of dormancy, which is closely associated with cellular quiescence, a state whereby cells exit the cell cycle and are reversibly arrested in G0 phase. Curative cancer treatment thus requires therapies that either sustain the dormant state of quiescent cancer cells, or preferentially, eliminate them. However, the mechanisms responsible for the survival of quiescent cancer cells remain obscure. Methods: Dual genome-editing was carried out using a CRISPR/Cas9-based system to label endogenous p27 and Ki67 with the green and red fluorescent proteins EGFP and mCherry, respectively, in melanoma cells. Analysis of transcriptomes of isolated EGFP-p27highmCherry-Ki67low quiescent cells was conducted at bulk and single cell levels using RNA-sequencing. The extracellular acidification rate and oxygen consumption rate were measured to define metabolic phenotypes. SiRNA and inducible shRNA knockdown, chromatin immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assays were employed to elucidate mechanisms of the metabolic switch in quiescent cells. Results: Dual labelling of endogenous p27 and Ki67 with differentiable fluorescent probes allowed for visualization, isolation, and analysis of viable p27highKi67low quiescent cells. Paradoxically, the proto-oncoprotein c-Myc, which commonly drives malignant cell cycle progression, was expressed at relatively high levels in p27highKi67low quiescent cells and supported their survival through promoting mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). In this context, c-Myc selectively transactivated genes encoding OXPHOS enzymes, including subunits of isocitric dehydrogenase 3 (IDH3), whereas its binding to cell cycle progression gene promoters was decreased in quiescent cells. Silencing of c-Myc or the catalytic subunit of IDH3, IDH3α, preferentially killed quiescent cells, recapitulating the effect of treatment with OXPHOS inhibitors. Conclusion: These results establish a rigorous experimental system for investigating cellular quiescence, uncover the high selectivity of c-Myc in activating OXPHOS genes in quiescent cells, and propose OXPHOS targeting as a potential therapeutic avenue to counter cancer cells in quiescence.
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Cecchino GN, García-Velasco JA, Rial E. Reproductive senescence impairs the energy metabolism of human luteinized granulosa cells. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 43:779-787. [PMID: 34600856 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.08.006] [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: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Female age is the single greatest factor influencing reproductive performance and granulosa cells are considered as potential biomarkers of oocyte quality. Is there an age effect on the energy metabolism of human mural granulosa cells? DESIGN Observational prospective cohort and experimental study including 127 women who had undergone IVF cycles. Women were allocated to two groups: a group of infertile patients aged over 38 years and a control group comprising oocyte donors aged less than 35 years. Individuals with pathologies that could impair fertility were excluded from both groups. Following oocyte retrieval, cumulus and granulosa cells were isolated and their bioenergetic properties (oxidative phosphorylation parameters, rate of aerobic glycolysis and adenine nucleotide concentrations) were analysed and compared. RESULTS Human mural luteinized granulosa and cumulus cells present high rates of aerobic glycolysis that cannot be increased further when mitochondrial ATP synthesis is inhibited. Addition of follicular fluid to the experimental media is necessary to reach the full respiratory capacity of the cells. Granulosa cells from aged women present lower mitochondrial respiration (12.8 ± 1.6 versus 11.2 ± 1.6 pmol O2/min/mg; P = 0.046), although mitochondrial mass is not decreased, and lower aerobic glycolysis, than those from young donors (12.9 ± 1.3 versus 10.9 ± 0.5 mpH/min/mg; P = 0.009). The concurrent decrease in the two energy supply pathways leads to a decrease in the cellular energy charge (0.87 ± 0.01 versus 0.83 ± 0.02; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Human mural luteinized granulosa cells exhibit a reduction in their energy metabolism as women age that is likely to influence female reproductive potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo Nardini Cecchino
- Department of Gynecology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Rey Juan Carlos University, Alcorcón Madrid, Spain; IVI-Madrid, Aravaca Madrid 28023, Spain
| | - Juan Antonio García-Velasco
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Rey Juan Carlos University, Alcorcón Madrid, Spain; IVI-Madrid, Aravaca Madrid 28023, Spain
| | - Eduardo Rial
- Department of Structural and Chemical Biology, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas, CSIC, Madrid, Spain.
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10
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The Differential Metabolomes in Cumulus and Mural Granulosa Cells from Human Preovulatory Follicles. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:1343-1356. [PMID: 34374964 PMCID: PMC8907092 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00691-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated the differences in metabolites between cumulus cells (CCs) and mural granulosa cells (MGCs) from human preovulatory follicles to understand the mechanism of oocyte maturation involving CCs and MGCs. CCs and MGCs were collected from women who were undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment. The differences in morphology were determined by immunofluorescence. The metabolomics of CCs and MGCs was measured by liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) followed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and western blot analysis to further confirm the genes and proteins involved in oocyte maturation. CCs and MGCs were cultured for 48 h in vitro, and the medium was collected for detection of hormone levels. There were minor morphological differences between CCs and MGCs. LC-MS/MS analysis showed that there were differences in 101 metabolites between CCs and MGCs: 7 metabolites were upregulated in CCs, and 94 metabolites were upregulated in MGCs. The metabolites related to cholesterol transport and estradiol production were enriched in CCs, while metabolites related to antiapoptosis were enriched in MGCs. The expression of genes and proteins involved in cholesterol transport (ABCA1, LDLR, and SCARB1) and estradiol production (SULT2B1 and CYP19A1) was significantly higher in CCs, and the expression of genes and proteins involved in antiapoptosis (CRLS1, LPCAT3, and PLA2G4A) was significantly higher in MGCs. The level of estrogen in CCs was significantly higher than that in MGCs, while the progesterone level showed no significant differences. There are differences between the metabolomes of CCs and MGCs. These differences may be involved in the regulation of oocyte maturation.
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Szymanska M, Shrestha K, Girsh E, Harlev A, Eisenberg I, Imbar T, Meidan R. Reduced Endothelin-2 and Hypoxic Signaling Pathways in Granulosa-Lutein Cells of PCOS Women. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22158216. [PMID: 34360981 PMCID: PMC8347025 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22158216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Granulosa-lutein cells (GLCs) from PCOS women display reduced HIF-1α and EDN2 levels, suggesting their role in PCOS etiology. Here, we investigated the mechanisms involved in aberrant EDN2 expression in PCOS, and its association with HIF-1α. Various HIF-1α-dependent factors were studied in GLCs from PCOS and compared to normally ovulating women. MicroRNA-210 (miR-210), its target genes (SDHD and GPD1L), and HIF-1α-responsive genes (EDN2 and VEGFA) differed in GLCs from PCOS, compared with those of healthy women. Levels of miR-210—designated hypoxiamiR—and EDN2 were reduced in the PCOS GLCs; concomitantly, GPD1L and SDHD levels were elevated. Cultured GLCs retained low EDN2 expression and had low HIF-1α levels, providing evidence for a disrupted hypoxic response in the PCOS GLCs. However, VEGFA expression was elevated in these cells. Next, miR-210 levels were manipulated. miR-210-mimic stimulated EDN2 twice as much as the miR-NC-transfected cells, whereas miR-210-inhibitor diminished EDN2, emphasizing the importance of hypoxiamiR for EDN2 induction. Intriguingly, VEGFA transcripts were reduced by both miR-210-mimic and -inhibitor, demonstrating that EDN2 and VEGFA are distinctly regulated. Disrupted hypoxic response in the GLCs of periovulatory follicles in PCOS women may play a role in ovulation failure, and in the reduced fertility prevalent in this syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Szymanska
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (M.S.); (K.S.)
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Ketan Shrestha
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (M.S.); (K.S.)
- UK Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA
| | - Eliezer Girsh
- Fertility and IVF Unit, Barzilai University Medical Center, Ashkelon 7830604, Israel; (E.G.); (A.H.)
| | - Avi Harlev
- Fertility and IVF Unit, Barzilai University Medical Center, Ashkelon 7830604, Israel; (E.G.); (A.H.)
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Iris Eisenberg
- The Magda and Richard Hoffman Center for Human Placenta Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem 91240, Israel;
| | - Tal Imbar
- The Magda and Richard Hoffman Center for Human Placenta Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem 91240, Israel;
- Hadassah Ein Kerem Medical Center, Fertility Preservation Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112102, Israel
- Correspondence: (T.I.); (R.M.)
| | - Rina Meidan
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 7610001, Israel; (M.S.); (K.S.)
- Correspondence: (T.I.); (R.M.)
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12
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Han Y, Gao G, Li S, Xiao N, Zhang Y, Luo H. Development of an optimal protocol for isolation and purification of human granulosa cells in patients with different ovarian reserves. Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:938. [PMID: 34335887 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the current study was to develop an accurate and reproducible method for isolation of granulosa cells (GCs) in patients with different ovarian reserves. The cells of healthy individuals and patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) were isolated using a modified two-step Percoll density gradient centrifugation. The cells of patients with poor ovarian response (POR) were isolated using a one-step method suitable for samples containing few cells. Cells extracted using these purification techniques were compared regarding cell yield, viability and purity using immunocytochemistry, flow cytometry, Cell Counting Kit-8, western blotting and RNA integrity analysis. The purity and activity of the cells in the POR group were comparable with those in the healthy and PCOS groups and no statistically significant differences were identified. Furthermore, isolated cells analyzed for RNA integrity indicated good quality RNA and presented an RNA integrity number of 8-10, demonstrating that the technique enabled the isolation of GCs from different types of patients. Thus, a reliable and reproducible technique for the isolation of pure GCs with high yield is described in the present study. This protocol provides an efficient method targeted to patients with different ovarian reserve functions that enables the preparation of GCs for evaluating their molecular functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Han
- Department of Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin 300100, P.R. China
| | - Ge Gao
- Department of Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin 300100, P.R. China
| | - Shuang Li
- Department of Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin 300100, P.R. China
| | - Nan Xiao
- Department of Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin 300100, P.R. China
| | - Yinfeng Zhang
- Department of Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin 300100, P.R. China
| | - Haining Luo
- Department of Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tianjin Central Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tianjin 300100, P.R. China
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Cecchino GN, Pacheco A, García-Velasco JA. Reproductive senescence and energetic metabolism of human luteinized granulosa cells: is it all about ATP? A prospective cohort and critical view. Gynecol Endocrinol 2021; 37:523-527. [PMID: 32820962 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2020.1810656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are known to play a key role in the regulation of reproductive capacity. Senescence is known to impair mitochondrial function and, ultimately, cellular energetic metabolism. Therefore, as women age, a deficient energy supply is likely to affect oocyte quality. The analysis of granulosa cells is considered a valuable noninvasive strategy to assess factors implicated in oocyte competence. Thus, we conducted an observational prospective cohort to evaluate the impact of aging on energy production by luteinized granulosa cells (LGCs). The control group comprised 13 young oocyte donors, whereas the comparison group included 13 infertile women over 38 years of age undergoing in vitro fertilization. Women with diseases that could potentially impact mitochondrial function were excluded. No differences were detected in the ATP levels in LGCs from young donors and infertile patients of advanced reproductive age (1.9 ± 0.99 picomoles in the control group vs. 2.1 ± 0.59 picomoles; p-value = .139). Likewise, the ATP levels in our series did not correlate with either oocyte number or maturity. Despite the similar ATP levels in LGCs, an age effect on the bioenergetic status cannot be excluded. Energy metabolism is very complex, and ATP does not seem to be the most important and reliable parameter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo N Cecchino
- Department of Gynecology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, IVIRMA Global Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alberto Pacheco
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, IVIRMA Global Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan A García-Velasco
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, IVIRMA Global Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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14
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Makieva S, Reschini M, Ferrari S, Bonesi F, Polledri E, Fustinoni S, Restelli L, Sarais V, Somigliana E, Viganò P. Oral Vitamin D supplementation impacts gene expression in granulosa cells in women undergoing IVF. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:130-144. [PMID: 33305818 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does oral Vitamin D supplementation alter the hormonal milieu of follicular fluid (FF) and the transcriptomic profile of luteinised granulosa cells (GCs) in women with Vitamin D deficiency undergoing IVF? SUMMARY ANSWER A transcriptomic signature relevant to oral Vitamin D supplementation in luteinised GCs was demonstrated, although Vitamin D supplementation did not alter hormone levels in FF. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Vitamin D deficiency is linked to lower live birth rates among women undergoing IVF. It is unclear whether Vitamin D elicits a targeted action in reproductive physiology or is a surrogate marker of overall well-being. Several in-vitro studies, but none in vivo, have examined the impact of Vitamin D on the periovulatory follicle, focusing on GCs as a proxy marker of oocyte competence. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We present a report of secondary outcomes from the SUNDRO clinical trial, which was launched in 2016 to determine whether Vitamin D supplementation can improve the IVF outcomes of women who are deficient in Vitamin D (<30 ng/ml). FF samples of 145 women who were randomised to receive Vitamin D or placebo from March 2017 to January 2019 were collected. All follicles that were aspirated in our study measured ≥11 mm on the day of hCG trigger. The first cohort of samples was collected from the dominant follicle of each participant and utilised for hormone profiling (n = 50 Vitamin D, n = 45 Placebo). For the second cohort, the follicle aspirates of each participant were pooled to create a single FF sample, which was used for the isolation of GCs for gene expression studies (n = 20 Vitamin D, n = 30 placebo). Six of the samples from the second cohort were used for RNA-sequencing analysis (n = 3 Vitamin D, n = 3 placebo). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Two academic infertility units were involved in the recruitment of the participants, who received a single dose of oral 25-hydroxyvitamin D (600 000 IU) or placebo, 2-12 weeks before oocyte retrieval. Women in both groups were deficient in Vitamin D, aged 18-39 years with a normal BMI (18-25 kg/m2) and <3 previous IVF cycles. The FF was aspirated at the time of oocyte retrieval and stored. Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry was used to measure FF abundance of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, aldosterone, androstenedione, cortisol, cortisone, corticosterone, 11-deoxycorticosterone, 11-deoxycortisol, 21-deoxycortisol, dehydroepiandrosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, dihydrotestosterone, oestradiol (E2), 17-OH-hydroxyprogesterone, progesterone (P4) and testosterone. GCs were isolated from pooled FFs and the transcriptome was evaluated by RNA-sequencing and RT-PCR. Ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) was used to assess the top canonical pathways and upstream regulators mediating the action of Vitamin D. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE At oocyte retrieval, FF concentration of 25-hydroxyvitamin D was 2.8-fold higher (P < 0.001) in the Vitamin D group (39.5 ng/ml; n = 50) compared to placebo (13.8 ng/ml; n = 45) but no other hormonal differences were detected. In the placebo group, but not the Vitamin D group, weak correlations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration with P4 (r = 0.31, P = 0.03) and E2 (r = 0.45, P = 0.002) were observed. RNA-sequencing identified 44 differentially expressed genes in the GCs of patients who received Vitamin D (n = 3) compared to placebo (n = 3). RT-PCR demonstrated upregulation of VDR (vitamin D receptor), GSTA3 (glutathione S-transferase A3) and IL21R (interleukin 21 receptor), and downregulation of P T GS2 (prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2), KLF4 (kruppel-like factor 4), T RP C4 (transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily C member 4), VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), RXRB (retinoid X receptor beta) and AGER (advanced glycosylation end-product specific receptor) genes in the Vitamin D (n = 17) versus placebo (n = 27) group. IPA suggested roles of Vitamin D in antioxidant defence. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Interpretation of the data is influenced by our intervention strategy (2-12 weeks prior to retrieval). As folliculogenesis may last 5-6 months, our protocol can only examine with confidence the impact of Vitamin D on the final stages of follicular growth. Furthermore, we examined the hormonal profile of the dominant follicle only, while the GC data reflect the transcriptome of all (pooled) follicles large enough to be used for IVF. Luteinised GCs from controlled ovarian stimulation were used in this study, which may be functionally distinct from the GCs of developing follicles. Moreover, the sample size for RNA-sequencing analysis was low (n = 3 per group), regardless of validation by RT-PCR that was performed on a larger cohort, introducing complexity to the IPA analysis, which required an input of data with P-adjusted <0.08 instead of <0.05 to be informative. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This is the first in-vivo study to show that Vitamin D supplementation alters gene expression in luteinised GCs. In contrast to some in-vitro evidence, no effect of the intervention on expression of genes encoding steroidogenic enzymes was observed. Unlike other studies, our results suggest that supplementation with Vitamin D is unlikely to directly influence hormone availability in FF. Our findings instead reinforce the hypothesis that Vitamin D could be considered one of the gatekeepers in protecting against an exaggerated response to ovarian stimulation. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study has been funded by the Italian Ministry of Health (RF-2013-02358757) following peer review in the competitive 'Bando di Ricerca Finalizzata e Giovani Ricercatori 2013' for the clinical trial SUNDRO (EudraCT registration number 2015-004233-27). There are no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER EudraCT registration number 2015-004233-27.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Makieva
- Reproductive Science Laboratory, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Marco Reschini
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Stefania Ferrari
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Francesca Bonesi
- Reproductive Science Laboratory, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Elisa Polledri
- Department of Clinical Sciences & Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Silvia Fustinoni
- Department of Clinical Sciences & Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan 20122, Italy.,Environmental and Industrial Toxicology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Liliana Restelli
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Veronica Sarais
- Centro Scienze Natalità, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan 20132, Italy
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Infertility Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan 20122, Italy.,Department of Clinical Sciences & Community Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- Reproductive Science Laboratory, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan 20132, Italy
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Does gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist cause luteolysis by inducing apoptosis of the human granulosa-luteal cells? J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:2301-2305. [PMID: 34031766 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02226-w] [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: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluates the effect of different modes of final follicular maturation triggering on the degree of apoptosis of granulosa cells (GCs) and the potential effect on progesterone secretion. METHODS Thirty patients undergoing controlled ovarian hyperstimulation for IVF who received hCG, GnRH agonist, or dual trigger for final follicular maturation were included in the study. Granulosa cells were obtained at the time of oocyte retrieval. The proportion of apoptotic cells was evaluated via TUNEL and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS The proportion of apoptotic cells was significantly higher in the GnRH agonist-alone group compared to hCG-alone and the dual trigger groups (13.5 ± 1.5% vs. 7.8% ± 1.8 vs. 10.1% ± 2, respectively, P < 0.01). Moreover, the expression of active-caspase-3 was also significantly increased in the GnRH agonist-alone group compared with the hCG-alone and the dual trigger groups (15.5% ± 2.9 vs. 8.4% ± 1.6 vs. 12.7% ± 2.6, respectively, P < 0.01). The progesterone levels measured in the granulosa-luteal cell culture medium after 24 h of incubation were similar between the three groups. CONCLUSIONS The levels of apoptosis are increased after GnRH agonist/dual trigger. The increased apoptosis might be one of the culprit of the subsequent premature demise of the corpus luteum post GnRH agonist trigger.
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Antioxidant activities and lipid peroxidation status in human follicular fluid: age-dependent change. ZYGOTE 2021; 29:490-494. [PMID: 33910658 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199421000241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Maternal age is a significant factor influencing in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes. Oxidative stress (OS) is one of the major causes of age-related cellular and molecular damage. The purpose of this work was to investigate the correlation between maternal age with intrafollicular antioxidants and OS markers in follicular fluid (FF), and also to determine the OS status in patients of advanced age. This study was a prospective study including 201 women undergoing IVF whose age was between 24 and 45 years old. FF samples were obtained from mature follicles at the time of oocyte retrieval. After treatment of FF, lipid peroxidation levels (MDA) and enzyme activities such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione (GSH) level were evaluated using spectrophotometry. The results indicated that the age cutoff point for increasing the MDA level was fixed at 37 years, allowing the study to be differentiated into two age groups. Group I included patients whose age was less than 37 years, and group II included patients whose age was greater than or equal 37 years. Statistical analysis revealed that MDA and GSH levels and GR activity were significantly higher in group II compared with group I. The SOD and CAT activities were significantly less in group II compared with group I. We concluded that from 37 years old a reproductive ageing was accompanied by a change in the antioxidant pattern in FF that impaired reactive oxygen species scavenging efficiency.
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Wei Y, Wang Z, Wei L, Li S, Qiu X, Liu C. MicroRNA-874-3p promotes testosterone-induced granulosa cell apoptosis by suppressing HDAC1-mediated p53 deacetylation. Exp Ther Med 2021; 21:359. [PMID: 33732332 PMCID: PMC7903439 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.9790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNA (miR)-874-3p is a newly identified miRNA that is involved in several pathological processes, including cancer, myocardial infarction, bone formation and erectile dysfunction. However, the role of miR-874-3p in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and granulosa cell (GC) apoptosis is not completely understood. The present study investigated the expression profile of miR-874-3p in PCOS by reverse transcription- quantitative PCR and the GC apoptosis by flow cytometry analysis. miR-874-3p expression was significantly upregulated in GCs isolated from patients with PCOS compared with patients without PCOS. In addition, miR-874-3p expression was positively correlated with GC apoptosis and testosterone levels in both patients with PCOS and patients without PCOS. Therefore, the present study also aimed to investigate the effects of miR-874-3p on testosterone-induced GC apoptosis. Compared with vehicle-treated GCs, miR-874-3p expression levels were significantly increased in testosterone-treated GCs, which was inhibited by the androgen receptor antagonist flutamide. GCs were transfected with either the miR-874-3p mimic or a miR-874-3p inhibitor. Compared with the control group, miR-874-3p mimic significantly enhanced GC apoptosis, whereas miR-874-3p inhibitor significantly decreased GC apoptosis. Moreover, histone deacetylase (HDAC) activity and HDAC1 expression levels were decreased in testosterone-treated GCs compared with vehicle-treated GCs. HDAC1 overexpression significantly attenuated the proapoptotic effects of testosterone. Additionally, miR-874-3p mimic and inhibitor significantly decreased and increased HDAC1 expression levels, respectively, compared with the control group. miR-874-3p inhibitor failed to attenuate HDAC1 overexpression-induced GC apoptosis. Furthermore, compared with the control group, testosterone treatment notably increased p53 expression and acetylation. Compared with the control group, western blotting analysis showed that miR-874-3p mimic notably increased p53 expression and acetylation, whereas miR-874-3p inhibitor markedly decreased p53 expression and acetylation. However, miR-874-3p inhibitor did not further decrease p53 acetylation and expression in cell overexpressing HDAC1. Collectively, the results of the present study indicated that miR-874-3p was upregulated in PCOS and promoted testosterone-induced GC apoptosis by suppressing HDAC1-mediated p53 deacetylation. Therefore, the present study improved the current understanding of the pathogenesis of PCOS and GC apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youhua Wei
- Department of Medical Heredity and Prenatal Screening, Zaozhuang Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Zaozhuang, Shandong 277100, P.R. China
| | - Zhijun Wang
- Department of Medical Heredity and Prenatal Screening, Zaozhuang Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Zaozhuang, Shandong 277100, P.R. China
| | - Li Wei
- Department of Medical Heredity and Prenatal Screening, Zaozhuang Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Zaozhuang, Shandong 277100, P.R. China
| | - Shen Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zaozhuang Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Zaozhuang, Shandong 277100, P.R. China
| | - Xuemei Qiu
- Department of Reproductive Center, Zaozhuang Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Zaozhuang, Shandong 277100, P.R. China
| | - Chengwen Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zaozhuang Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Zaozhuang, Shandong 277100, P.R. China
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18
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Characterization of stem cells from human ovarian follicular fluid; a potential source of autologous stem cell for cell-based therapy. Hum Cell 2021; 34:300-309. [PMID: 33543452 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-020-00439-2] [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: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Human ovarian follicular fluid (HOFF) contains proteins, extracellular matrixes necessary for growth and maturation of oocytes as well as granulosa cells. Epithelial cells and stem cells can be isolated from HOFF. However, information regarding stem cells derived from HOFF is still lacking. The objectives of the present study were to isolate, characterize, and differentiate cells derived from HOFF. HOFF was collected during the routine aspiration of oocytes in an assisted fertilization program and subjected to cell isolation, characterization, and in vitro culture. After 24 h of culture, different cell morphologies including epithelial-like-, neural-like- and fibroblast-like cells were observed. Immunocytochemistry reveals the expression of pluripotent stem cell markers (OCT4, NANOG, SSEA4), epithelial marker (CK18), FSH- and LH-receptor. For in vitro culture, the isolated cells were continuously cultured in a growth medium; alpha MEM containing 10% FBS and epidermal growth factor (EGF). After 2 weeks of in vitro culture, cells with fibroblast-like morphology dominantly grow in the culture vessels and resemble mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). HOFF-derived cells exhibited MSC expression of CD44, CD73, CD90, CD105, CD146, and STRO-1, and were capable of differentiation into osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and adipocytes. After induction of neural differentiation, HOFF-derived cells formed spheroidal structures and expressed neural stem cell markers including Nestin, β-tubulin III, and O4. Besides, the oocyte-like structure was observed after prolonged culture of HOFF. In conclusion, cells derived from follicular fluid exhibited stem cell characteristics, which could be useful for regenerative medicine applications and cell-based therapies.
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19
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Al-Kawlani B, Murrieta-Coxca JM, Chaiwangyen W, Fröhlich K, Fritzsche A, Winkler S, Markert UR, Morales-Prieto DM. Doxorubicin induces cytotoxicity and miR-132 expression in granulosa cells. Reprod Toxicol 2020; 96:95-101. [PMID: 32505695 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2020.06.001] [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: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Doxorubicin (DOX) is one of the most commonly used drugs for the treatment of childhood cancers, including leukemia and lymphomas. Despite the high survival rate, female leukemia survivors are at higher risk of ovarian failure and infertility later in life. Treatment with chemotherapeutic drugs like DOX is associated with damage in ovarian follicles, but the affectation grade of granulosa cells remains unclear. To assess and avoid the possible side-effects of DOX, early biomarkers of ovarian injury and chemotherapy-induced ovarian toxicity should be identified. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged in recent years as a promising new class of biomarkers for drug-induced tissue toxicity. In this study, the effects of DOX on cell viability, steroidogenesis, and miRNA expression were studied in primary granulosa cells (GCs) and in two cellular models (COV434 and KGN cells). We report that compared to other chemotherapeutic drugs, DOX treatment is more detrimental to granulosa cells as observed by decrease of cell viability. Treatment with DOX changes the expression of the aromatase gene (CYP19A1) and the secretion of 17β-estradiol (E2) in a cell-specific manner. miR-132-3p is dose-dependently increased by DOX in all cellular models. In absence of DOX, miR-132-3p overexpression in COV434 cells has no effect on E2 secretion or CYP19A1 expression. Altogether, these findings contribute to understanding the hormonal disbalance caused by DOX in human ovarian cells and suggest miR-132 as a putative sensor to predict DOX-induced ovarian toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boodor Al-Kawlani
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | | | - Wittaya Chaiwangyen
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany; Department of Biochemistry, School of Medical Sciences, University of Phayao, Phayao, Thailand
| | - Karolin Fröhlich
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | | | | | - Udo R Markert
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.
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20
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Single-Cell Transcriptomic Atlas of Primate Ovarian Aging. Cell 2020; 180:585-600.e19. [PMID: 32004457 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2020.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 289] [Impact Index Per Article: 72.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Molecular mechanisms of ovarian aging and female age-related fertility decline remain unclear. We surveyed the single-cell transcriptomic landscape of ovaries from young and aged non-human primates (NHPs) and identified seven ovarian cell types with distinct gene-expression signatures, including oocyte and six types of ovarian somatic cells. In-depth dissection of gene-expression dynamics of oocytes revealed four subtypes at sequential and stepwise developmental stages. Further analysis of cell-type-specific aging-associated transcriptional changes uncovered the disturbance of antioxidant signaling specific to early-stage oocytes and granulosa cells, indicative of oxidative damage as a crucial factor in ovarian functional decline with age. Additionally, inactivated antioxidative pathways, increased reactive oxygen species, and apoptosis were observed in granulosa cells from aged women. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the cell-type-specific mechanisms underlying primate ovarian aging at single-cell resolution, revealing new diagnostic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for age-related human ovarian disorders.
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21
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Raad G, Bazzi M, Tanios J, Mourad Y, Azouri J, Azouri J, Fakih C. Optimization of The Cell Aggregates Method for Isolation and Purification of Human Granulosa Cells from Follicular Fluid. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2020; 13:339-345. [PMID: 31710196 PMCID: PMC6875859 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2020.5790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aspirated ovarian follicular fluids (FF) contain luteal granulosa cells (LGCs) and other contaminating cell types. Several strategies, such as the antibody binding methods, the flask method, the cell strainer and positive selection of granulosa aggregates after density gradient (DG) centrifugation, were tested as LGC purification methods. Each of these strategies has its own advantages and disadvantages. Positive selection of granulosa aggregates after DG centrifugation is simple, rapid and efficient in terms of LGC recovery. However, it results in a low purity. Here, we aimed to test whether modifying the traditional protocol by collecting the aggregates from the FF, before the DG centrifugation could decrease the percentage of contaminating cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS In the present prospective study, 32 FF, from 32 women,were randomly assigned into one of the two purification techniques: positive selection of granulosa aggregates from the FF, after DG centrifugation (DG/ Agg, n=16) or positive selection of granulosa aggregates from the FF, before DG centrifugation (Agg/DG, n=16). At the end of each procedure cell count, vitality, morphology and purity of the cell suspension were evaluated. RESULTS No significant difference was detected in the total number of GCs between DG/Agg and Agg/DG (P>0.05). However, higher percentage of GCs with normal morphology was detected in Agg/DG compared to DG/Agg (P<0.001). Moreover, lower percentages of white blood cells (P<0.01), red blood cells (P<0.001) and epithelial cells (P<0.01) were identified in Agg/DG compared to DG/Agg. CONCLUSION Here we showed that positive selection of granulosa aggregates from the FF prior to DG technique had a higher purity compared to the traditional protocol. Thus, it could be a method of choice to prepare GCs for research purposes in clinical in vitro fertilization settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georges Raad
- Azoury IVF Clinic, Mount Lebanon Hospital, Camille Chamoun Bvd, Beirut, Lebanon. Electronic Address:
| | - Marwa Bazzi
- Al-Hadi Laboratory and Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Judy Tanios
- Lebanese University, Faculty of Sciences, Section II, Fanar, Lebanon and Azoury IVF Clinic, Mount Lebanon Hospital, Camille Chamoun Bvd, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Youmna Mourad
- Al-Hadi Laboratory and Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Joan Azouri
- OB-GYN Department, Inova Fairfax Hospital, Falls Church, Virginia
| | - Joseph Azouri
- Azoury IVF Clinic, Mount Lebanon Hospital, Camille Chamoun Bvd, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Chadi Fakih
- Al-Hadi Laboratory and Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
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22
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Paffoni A, Somigliana E, Sarais V, Ferrari S, Reschini M, Makieva S, Papaleo E, Viganò P. Effect of vitamin D supplementation on assisted reproduction technology (ART) outcomes and underlying biological mechanisms: protocol of a randomized clinical controlled trial. The "supplementation of vitamin D and reproductive outcome" (SUNDRO) study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2019; 19:395. [PMID: 31675919 PMCID: PMC6823943 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-019-2538-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Vitamin D plays an important role in human physiology and pathology. The receptor for vitamin D regulates 0.5–5% of the human genome. Accordingly, vitamin D insufficiency has been shown to increase the risk of several diseases. In recent years, based on growing evidence, on a role of vitamin D has been also postulated in reproductive health both in animals and humans, especially in female fertility female fertility. In vitro fertilization success was shown to be higher in women with appropriate reserves of vitamin D. However a causal relation has not been demonstrated and randomized controlled trials testing the effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation in IVF are warranted. Methods This is a multicenter randomized double blinded placebo controlled study aimed at determining the benefits of vitamin D [25(OH)D] supplementation in improving clinical pregnancy rate in women undergoing IVF. Eligible women with a serum level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] < 30 ng/ml will be randomized. Recruited women will be given the drug (either 600,000 IU of 25(OH) D or placebo in a single oral administration) at the time of randomization. Two centres will participate and the sample size (700 women) is foreseen to be equally distributed between the two. Patients will be treated according to standard IVF protocols. Discussion The primary aim of the study is the cumulative clinical pregnancy rate per oocyte retrieval. Clinical pregnancy is defined as the presence of at least one intrauterine gestational sac with viable foetus at first ultrasound assessment (3 weeks after a positive human chorionic gonadotropin [hCG] assessment). Secondary outcomes include: 1) clinical and embryological variables; 2) oocyte and endometrium quality at a molecular level. To investigate this latter aspect, samples of cumulus cells, follicular and endometrial fluids will be obtained from a subgroup of 50 age-matched good-prognosis cases and controls. Trial registration The protocol was included in EudraCT on 22nd September 2015 with the registration number assigned ‘2015-004233-27’; it was submitted through the database of the Italian “Osservatorio Nazionale della Sperimentazione Clinica (OsSC)” - (National Monitoring Centre of Clinical Trials) to the National Competent Authority on 8th March 2016 and approved on 23rd June 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Paffoni
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, via M. Fanti 6, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, via M. Fanti 6, 20122, Milan, Italy. .,Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche e di Comunità, University of Milan, via Fanti 6, 20122, Milan, Italy.
| | - Veronica Sarais
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefania Ferrari
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, via M. Fanti 6, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Reschini
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, via M. Fanti 6, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Sofia Makieva
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico Papaleo
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- Division of Genetics and Cell Biology, Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, via Olgettina 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
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23
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Quercetin protects human granulosa cells against oxidative stress via thioredoxin system. Reprod Biol 2019; 19:245-254. [PMID: 31383475 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2019.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Granulosa Cells (GCs) are sensitive to excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Quercetin (QUR) is a free radical scavenger which can alleviate oxidative stress through nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2)/antioxidant response element (ARE) pathway and thioredoxin (Trx) system. We aimed to explore the probable protective role of QUR on cultured human GCs treated with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as an inducer of oxidative stress. MTT assay was applied for evaluating the cell cytotoxicity of QUR and H2O2. The rate of apoptotic cells and intracellular ROS generation were determined by Annexin V-FITC/PI staining and 2'-7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate fluorescent probes (DCFH-DA), respectively. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis and western blot analysis were used to evaluate the gene and protein expression of Nrf2 and kelch-like ech-associated protein 1 (Keap1)1. The Nrf2 and Trx activities were measured by Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). The results indicated that QUR pretreatment can decrease ROS production and apoptosis induced by H2O2. In addition, QUR increased Nrf2 gene and protein expression, as well as its nuclear translocation. Moreover, in QUR-treated group, a lower level of Keap1 protein was observed, which was not reported as significant. The results also indicated a significant correlation between the expression of Nrf2 and Keap1 in QUR-treated group. Further, QUR protected GCs from oxidative stress by increasing Trx gene expression and activity. This study suggests that QUR as a supplementary factor may protect GCs from oxidative stress in diseases related to this condition.
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24
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Ai A, Tang Z, Liu Y, Yu S, Li B, Huang H, Wang X, Cao Y, Zhang W. Characterization and identification of human immortalized granulosa cells derived from ovarian follicular fluid. Exp Ther Med 2019; 18:2167-2177. [PMID: 31452708 PMCID: PMC6704934 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2019.7802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicular fluid serves a crucial role in follicular development and oocyte maturation. Increasing evidence indicates that follicular fluid is rich in proteins and functional cells. In addition to oocyte cells, follicular fluid contains granulosa, thecal and ovarian surface epithelial cells. Granulosa cells (GCs) represent the predominant somatic cell type of the ovarian follicle and are involved in steroidogenesis and folliculogenesis. However, the long-term culture of GCs in vitro remains challenging. The present study aimed to extend the culture of GCs in vitro. Human GCs were collected from the follicular fluid of patients included in an in vitro fertilization program and cultured in the presence of conditioned medium obtained from mouse embryonic fibroblasts. GCs were cultured for over a year and 130 passages, and the population doubling time was ~22 h. Cells presented epithelial-like morphology and a cobblestone-like appearance when they reached confluence. Flow cytometric analysis demonstrated that cells expressed CD29, CD166 and CD49f but not CD31, CD34, CD45, CD90, CD105 or CD13. Immunofluorescence staining revealed that cells expressed follicle stimulating hormone receptor, luteinizing hormone receptor and cytochrome P450 aromatase, which was confirmed by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. In the presence of androstenedione, cells secreted estradiol. In addition, estradiol level was further stimulated by dibutyryl cAMP treatment. In addition, intracellular cAMP and progesterone expression levels were upregulated by follicle stimulating hormone and/or human chorionic gonadotropin. Furthermore, cells survived in severe combined immunodeficiency mice following intra-ovarian injection. Histological analysis revealed that certain cells formed follicle-like structures. The results from the present study suggested that immortalized GCs may be a useful tool for further research on GC and improve the clinical application of drugs such as follicle-stimulating hormone or human chorionic gonadotropin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ai Ai
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China.,Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Zhengya Tang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Yali Liu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Sha Yu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - He Huang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Xiangsheng Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Yilin Cao
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
| | - Wenjie Zhang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shanghai 200011, P.R. China
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25
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Casalechi M, Dias JA, Pinto LV, Lobach VN, Pereira MT, Cavallo IK, Reis AM, Dela Cruz C, Reis FM. C-type natriuretic peptide signaling in human follicular environment and its relation with oocyte maturation. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 492:110444. [PMID: 31075302 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Studies in mice have shown that C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) is produced by granulosa cells and contributes to ovarian follicle growth and oocyte meiotic arrest until the preovulatory LH surge. In humans, the relationship between intraovarian CNP levels and oocyte meiotic resumption is unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate whether CNP and its receptor NPR2 are expressed in human ovarian follicles and if their levels change according to the meiotic phase of oocytes. We collected follicular fluid (FF) and luteinized granulosa cells (LGC) from follicle pools (n = 47), and FF, LGC and cumulus cells (CC) from individual follicles (n = 96) during oocyte pickup for in vitro fertilization. There was a positive linear correlation between CNP levels in FF pools and basal antral follicle counting (rs = 0.458; p = 0.002), number of preovulatory follicles >16 mm (rs = 0.361; p = 0.016) and number of oocytes retrieved (rs = 0,378; p = 0.011) and a negative correlation between CNP levels in FF pools and the percentage of mature (MII) oocytes retrieved (rs = -0.39; p = 0.033). FF CNP levels in follicles containing MII oocytes were significantly lower than in follicles containing immature (MI) oocytes (median = 0.44 vs. 0.57 ng/mL, p < 0.05). Accordingly, the CNP precursor gene NPPC was 50% less expressed in LGC from follicles containing MII oocytes than in follicles containing MI oocytes (p < 0.01). In addition, NPR2 mRNA was down-regulated in CC surrounding MII oocytes (60% reduction, p < 0.01). CNP signaling is downregulated in human ovarian follicles containing mature oocytes. Further studies should clarify whether CNP signaling is essential to keep oocyte meiotic arrest in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maíra Casalechi
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Júlia A Dias
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Lorena V Pinto
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Verônica N Lobach
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Maria T Pereira
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ines K Cavallo
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Adelina M Reis
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Cynthia Dela Cruz
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Fernando M Reis
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
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26
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Virant-Klun I, Omejec S, Stimpfel M, Skerl P, Novakovic S, Jancar N, Vrtacnik-Bokal E. Female Age Affects the Mesenchymal Stem Cell Characteristics of Aspirated Follicular Cells in the In Vitro Fertilization Programme. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2019; 15:543-557. [PMID: 31055736 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-019-09889-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Aspirated follicular cells (AFCs) from the in vitro fertilization program can express various stem cell markers and are even able to differentiate into different types of cells in vitro. The female reproductive potential decreases with increasing age due to lowered ovarian reserve and oocyte quality, but data on the effect of female age on stem cell characteristics of AFCs are scarce. Therefore, the aim of this study was to elucidate whether female age affects the mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) characteristics of AFCs. Follicular aspirates were collected from 12 patients included in the in vitro fertilization programme with a normal ovarian reserve. Patients were divided into four age groups: Group A ≤ 30 years, Group B 31-35 years, Group C 36-39 years and Group D ≥ 40 years. After removal of the oocytes, AFCs were collected from follicular aspirates using hypo-osmotic technique and cultured in vitro, and their stemness was compared according to female age. The cultured AFCs were analysed for gene expression using the Human Mesenchymal Stem Cell RT2 Profiler™ PCR Array, for their potential for differentiation into adipogenic and osteogenic lineage, and for their expression of MSC-related markers using immunocytochemistry. We found that female age can significantly influence their stemness: expression of pluripotency and MSC-related genes, and their differentiation potential. Despite the relatively high expression of MSC-related genes, the AFCs of the oldest patients had the lowest potential to differentiate into osteogenic and adipogenic lineages in vitro, which may be related to their age and the changed ovarian function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irma Virant-Klun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Zaloska cesta 2, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - S Omejec
- Blood Transfusion Centre of Slovenia, Slajmerjeva 6, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - M Stimpfel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Zaloska cesta 2, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - P Skerl
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloska 2, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - S Novakovic
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloska 2, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - N Jancar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Zaloska cesta 2, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - E Vrtacnik-Bokal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Zaloska cesta 2, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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27
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Notarstefano V, Gioacchini G, Byrne HJ, Zacà C, Sereni E, Vaccari L, Borini A, Carnevali O, Giorgini E. Vibrational characterization of granulosa cells from patients affected by unilateral ovarian endometriosis: New insights from infrared and Raman microspectroscopy. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2019; 212:206-214. [PMID: 30639914 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2018.12.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/31/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic gynaecological disease characterised by the presence of endometrial cells in extra-uterine regions. One of the main factors impacting on the fertility of women affected by endometriosis is the poor oocyte quality. Granulosa Cells (GCs) regulate oocyte development and maintain the appropriate microenvironment for the acquisition of its competence; hence, the dysregulation of these functions in GCs can lead to severe cellular damages also in oocytes. In this study, luteinized GCs samples were separately collected from both ovaries of women affected by Unilateral Ovarian Endometriosis and analysed by infrared and Raman microspectroscopy. The spectral data were compared with those of GCs from women with diagnosis of tubal, idiopathic or male infertility (taken as control group). The coupling of these two spectroscopic techniques sheds new light on the alteration induced by this pathology on GCs metabolism and biochemical composition. In fact, the study revealed similar biochemical modifications in GCs from both ovaries of women affected by unilateral ovarian endometriosis, such as the alteration of the protein pattern, the induction of oxidative stress mechanisms, and the deregulation of lipid and carbohydrate metabolisms. These evidences suggest that unilateral endometriosis impairs the overall ovarian functions, causing alterations not only in the ovary with endometriotic lesions but also in the contralateral "healthy" one.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Notarstefano
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Giorgia Gioacchini
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Hugh J Byrne
- FOCAS Research Institute, Dublin Institute of Technology, Kevin Street, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Carlotta Zacà
- 9.Baby Center for Reproductive Health, via Dante 15, 40125 Bologna, Italy
| | - Elena Sereni
- 9.Baby Center for Reproductive Health, via Dante 15, 40125 Bologna, Italy
| | - Lisa Vaccari
- SISSI Beamline, Elettra-Sincrotrone Trieste, S.C.p.A., S.S. 14 - Km 163.5, 34149 Basovizza, Trieste, Italy
| | - Andrea Borini
- 9.Baby Center for Reproductive Health, via Dante 15, 40125 Bologna, Italy
| | - Oliana Carnevali
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Giorgini
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy.
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Richani D, Constance K, Lien S, Agapiou D, Stocker WA, Hedger MP, Ledger WL, Thompson JG, Robertson DM, Mottershead DG, Walton KL, Harrison CA, Gilchrist RB. Cumulin and FSH Cooperate to Regulate Inhibin B and Activin B Production by Human Granulosa-Lutein Cells In Vitro. Endocrinology 2019; 160:853-862. [PMID: 30753406 DOI: 10.1210/en.2018-01026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The oocyte-secreted factors bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) and growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) interact functionally, and it is hypothesized that this interaction may be mediated by formation of a GDF9:BMP15 heterodimer termed cumulin. GDF9 and BMP15 regulate folliculogenesis and ovulation rate and have been shown to regulate inhibin and activin, local regulators of folliculogenesis. The objective of this study was to determine whether cumulin regulates granulosa cell inhibin and activin production and whether this requires cooperation with FSH. Human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells collected from patients undergoing in vitro fertilization were cultured with or without FSH with various forms of recombinant cumulin (native and cysteine mutants, with or without the prodomains), and cysteine mutant GDF9 or BMP15. Messenger RNA expression of the subunits of inhibins/activins (INHA, INHBA, INHBB) and secretion of inhibin A, inhibin B, and activin B were measured. Mature forms and proforms of cumulin stimulated comparable INHBB mRNA expression and secretion of inhibin B and activin B, whereas GDF9 or BMP15 exhibited no effect. Cumulin, but not GDF9 or BMP15, interacted synergistically with FSH to increase INHBB mRNA and inhibin B expression. FSH markedly stimulated INHA, which encodes the α subunit of inhibin A/B, and suppressed activin B. Cumulin with or without FSH did not significantly alter inhibin A. Together these data demonstrate that cumulin, but not GDF9 or BMP15, exerts paracrine control of FSH-induced regulation of inhibin B and activin B. The prodomains of cumulin may have a minimal role in its actions on granulosa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dulama Richani
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Katherine Constance
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Shelly Lien
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David Agapiou
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - William A Stocker
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - William L Ledger
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jeremy G Thompson
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - David M Robertson
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David G Mottershead
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Institute for Science and Technology in Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Keele University, Newcastle-under-Lyme, United Kingdom
| | - Kelly L Walton
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Craig A Harrison
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robert B Gilchrist
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
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29
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Buck T, Hack CT, Berg D, Berg U, Kunz L, Mayerhofer A. The NADPH oxidase 4 is a major source of hydrogen peroxide in human granulosa-lutein and granulosa tumor cells. Sci Rep 2019; 9:3585. [PMID: 30837663 PMCID: PMC6400953 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-40329-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
H2O2 is a reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can diffuse away from its site of generation and may act as a cell-to-cell signaling factor. The mechanisms responsible for the generation of H2O2 in human ovarian follicles and possible signaling role(s) of H2O2 are not well known. We identified a source of H2O2, the enzyme NADPH oxidase (NOX) 4, in isolated differentiated, in-vitro fertilisation-derived human granulosa-lutein cells (GCs), in proliferating human granulosa tumour cells (KGN), as well as in situ in cells of growing ovarian follicles. H2O2 was readily detected in the supernatant of cultured GCs and KGN cells. H2O2 levels were significantly lowered by the NOX4 blocker GKT137831, indicating a pronounced contribution of NOX4 to overall H2O2 generation by these cells. We provide evidence that extracellular H2O2 is taken up by GCs, which is facilitated by aquaporins (peroxiporins). We thus conclude that GC-derived H2O2 might act as autocrine/paracrine factor. Addition of H2O2 increased MAPK-phosphorylation in GCs. Moreover, reducing H2O2 production with GKT137831 slowed proliferation of KGN cells. Our results pinpoint NOX4 and H2O2 as physiological players in the regulation of GC functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Buck
- Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 82152, Planegg, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Carsten Theo Hack
- Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 82152, Planegg, Martinsried, Germany
| | | | | | - Lars Kunz
- Division of Neurobiology, Department Biology II, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 82152, Planegg, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Artur Mayerhofer
- Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, 82152, Planegg, Martinsried, Germany.
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30
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Ophir L, Yung Y, Yerushalmi GM, Baum M, Machtinger R, Maman E, Hourvitz A. An optimized model for hCG stimulation of human mural granulosa cell culture. Reprod Biol 2019; 19:67-74. [PMID: 30661769 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2019.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Revised: 01/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian follicular development and ovulation in mammals is a highly-regulated process. Most of the current knowledge of ovarian processes was obtained from the studies of non-human models. Molecular studies on human ovarian processes suffer from lack of material and appropriate research tools. Mural granulosa cells (MGCs) culture is a major tool for studying the effect of different substances but a major problem for using these primary MGCs is their unresponsiveness to hCG stimulation at the time of oocyte retrieval. It is acceptable that MGCs regain responsiveness during days in culture but when the best time is and how to accelerate the regenerative process are unknown. The aim of the current study was to establish an optimized protocol which will provide a practical and efficient tool to examine the effect of LH/hCG on different downstream targets in luteinized MGCs. hCG effects were examined according to days in culture and hCG stimulation time. As read-out, we analyzed the gene expression of known hCG targets, protein production, and progesterone secretion. Our results show that with a daily medium exchange, the strongest effect was achieved already 4 days after seeding. On day 4, hCG stimulation triggers two major patterns of gene expression. Early induced genes were highly expressed 6-8 h after hCG, while 24 h of hCG stimulation was needed for late induced genes. Based on our results, we suggest daily medium exchange for 4 days before adding hCG and examine its effect 6 and 24 h later.
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Affiliation(s)
- Libby Ophir
- IVF Unit and Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yuval Yung
- IVF Unit and Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Gil Mordechai Yerushalmi
- IVF Unit and Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Micha Baum
- IVF Unit and Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ronit Machtinger
- IVF Unit and Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ettie Maman
- IVF Unit and Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ariel Hourvitz
- IVF Unit and Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, affiliated with the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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31
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Bagnjuk K, Mayerhofer A. Human Luteinized Granulosa Cells-A Cellular Model for the Human Corpus Luteum. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:452. [PMID: 31338068 PMCID: PMC6629826 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In the ovary, the corpus luteum (CL) forms a temporal structure. Luteinized mural granulosa cells (GCs), which stem from the ruptured follicle, are the main cells of the CL. They can be isolated from follicular fluid of woman undergoing in vitro fertilization. In culture, human GCs are viable for several days and produce progesterone, yet eventually steroid production stops and GCs with increasing time in culture undergo changes reminiscent of the ones observed during the demise of the CL in vivo. This short review summarizes the general use of human GCs as a model for the primate CL and some of the data from our lab, which indicate that viability, functionality, survival and death of GCs can be regulated by local signal molecules (e.g., oxytocin and PEDF) and the extracellular matrix (e.g., via the proteoglycan decorin). We further summarize studies, which identified autophagocytotic events in human GCs linked to the activation of an ion channel. More recent studies identified a form of regulated cell death, namely necroptosis. This form of cell death may, in addition to apoptosis, contribute to the demise of the human CL. We believe that human GCs are a unique window into the human CL. Studies employing these cells may lead to the identification of molecular events and novel targets, which may allow to interfere with CL functions.
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32
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Hu KL, Zhao H, Min Z, He Y, Li T, Zhen X, Ren Y, Chang HM, Yu Y, Li R. Increased Expression of KISS1 and KISS1 Receptor in Human Granulosa Lutein Cells-Potential Pathogenesis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Reprod Sci 2018; 26:1429-1438. [PMID: 30595091 DOI: 10.1177/1933719118818899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Kisspeptins are a family of neuropeptides that are essential for fertility. Recent experimental data suggest a putative role of kisspeptin signaling in the direct control of ovarian function. To explore the expression of KISS1 and KISS1 receptor (KISS1R) in human granulosa lutein cells and the potential role of KISS1/KISS1R system in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), we measured the concentration of KISS1 in follicular fluid, the expression of KISS1 and KISS1R in granulosa lutein cells, and the circulating hormones. The expression levels of KISS1 and KISS1R were significantly upregulated in human granulosa lutein cells obtained from women with PCOS. The expression levels of KISS1 in human granulosa lutein cells highly correlated with those of KISS1R in non-PCOS patients, but not in patients with PCOS, most likely due to the divergent expression patterns in women with PCOS. Additionally, the expression levels of KISS1 highly correlated with the serum levels of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH). The expression levels of KISS1 and KISS1R, as well as the follicular fluid levels of KISS1, were not significantly different between the pregnant and nonpregnant patients in both PCOS and non-PCOS groups. In conclusion, the increased expression of KISS1 and KISS1R in human granulosa lutein cells may contribute to the pathogenesis of PCOS. The expression levels of KISS1 highly correlated with the serum levels of AMH. The KISS1 and KISS1R system in the ovary may not have a remarkable role in predicting the in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Lun Hu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hongcui Zhao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zheying Min
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yilei He
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tianjie Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiumei Zhen
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Ren
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia and British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Yang Yu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Rong Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology and Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,National Clinical Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
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33
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Follicular fluid and supernatant from cultured cumulus-granulosa cells improve in vitro maturation in patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Fertil Steril 2018; 110:710-719. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.04.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2017] [Revised: 04/24/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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34
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Almeida CP, Ferreira MC, Silveira CO, Campos JR, Borges IT, Baeta PG, Silva FH, Reis FM, Del Puerto HL. Clinical correlation of apoptosis in human granulosa cells-A review. Cell Biol Int 2018; 42:1276-1281. [DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Camila P. Almeida
- Department of General Pathology; Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte; Minas Gerais Brazil
| | - Márcia C.F. Ferreira
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte; Minas Gerais Brazil
| | - Camila O. Silveira
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte; Minas Gerais Brazil
| | - Jacira R. Campos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto; São Paulo Brazil
| | - Isabella T. Borges
- Department of General Pathology; Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte; Minas Gerais Brazil
| | - Pedro G. Baeta
- Department of General Pathology; Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte; Minas Gerais Brazil
| | - Felipe H.S. Silva
- Department of General Pathology; Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte; Minas Gerais Brazil
| | - Fernando M. Reis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte; Minas Gerais Brazil
| | - Helen L. Del Puerto
- Department of General Pathology; Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte; Minas Gerais Brazil
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35
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Nekoonam S, Naji M, Mortezaee K, Amidi F. Roles of methyltrienolone (R1881) in AKTs and AR expression patterns of cultured granulosa‐lutein cells. J Cell Biochem 2018; 119:7204-7211. [DOI: 10.1002/jcb.26861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2017] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Saeid Nekoonam
- Department of Anatomy, School of MedicineTehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Mohammad Naji
- Department of Anatomy, School of MedicineTehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Keywan Mortezaee
- Department of Anatomy, School of MedicineKurdistan University of Medical SciencesSanandajIran
| | - Fardin Amidi
- Department of Anatomy, School of MedicineTehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
- Department of Infertility, Shariati HospitalTehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
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36
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Will EA, Liu X, Peluso JJ. AG 205, a progesterone receptor membrane component 1 antagonist, ablates progesterone's ability to block oxidative stress-induced apoptosis of human granulosa/luteal cells†. Biol Reprod 2018; 96:843-854. [PMID: 28371915 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The present studies were designed to determine whether progesterone (P4)-progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1) signaling is able to attenuate the apoptotic effects of oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). To achieve this goal, freshly isolated human granulosa/luteal cells were maintained in culture. After several passages, the cells were treated with H2O2, which induced apoptosis within 2.5 h, while simultaneous treatment with P4 attenuated the apoptotic action of H2O2. AG 205, a PGRMC1 antagonist, eliminated P4's ability to prevent H2O2-induced apoptosis. AG 205 neither affected PGRMC1's cytoplasmic localization nor its interaction with PGRMC2, but appeared to reduce its presence within the nucleus. AG 205 also (1) increased the monomeric and decreased the higher molecular weight forms of PGRMC1 (i.e., dimers/oligomers) and (2) altered the expression of several genes involved in apoptosis. The most dramatic change was an approximate 8-fold increase in Harakiri (Hrk) mRNA. However, AG 205 did not induce apoptosis in the absence of H2O2. Taken together, these observations suggest that the higher molecular weight forms of PGRMC1 likely account in part for PGRMC1's ability to suppress the expression of Hrk. Harakiri is a BH-3 only member of the B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) family that promotes apoptosis by binding to and antagonizing the antiapoptotic action of BCL2- and BCL2-like proteins. It is likely then that PGRMC1's ability to suppress Hrk is part of the mechanism through which P4-PGRMC1 signaling preserves the viability of human granulosa/luteal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Anspach Will
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA.,The Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, Farmington Connecticut, USA
| | - Xiufang Liu
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - John J Peluso
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
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37
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Cavallo IK, Dela Cruz C, Oliveira ML, Del Puerto HL, Dias JA, Lobach VN, Casalechi M, Camargos MG, Reis AM, Santos RA, Reis FM. Angiotensin-(1-7) in human follicular fluid correlates with oocyte maturation. Hum Reprod 2018; 32:1318-1324. [PMID: 28402544 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do angiotensin (Ang)-(1-7) levels in human ovarian follicular fluid (FF) correlate with the number and proportion of mature oocytes obtained for IVF? SUMMARY ANSWER The present study shows for the first time that Ang-(1-7) levels in human FF correlate with the proportion of mature oocytes collected upon ovarian stimulation for IVF. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Ang-(1-7) is an active peptide of the renin-angiotensin system that stimulates oocyte maturation in isolated rabbit and rat ovaries. However, its role in human ovulation remains unexplored. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was a prospective cohort study including 64 participants from a single IVF center. Sample size was calculated to achieve a statistical power of 80% in detecting 20% differences in the proportion of mature oocytes between groups. The participants were enrolled in the study during six consecutive months. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Plasma samples were obtained from all subjects at Day 21 of the last menstrual cycle before starting pituitary blockade and controlled ovarian stimulation (COS). Plasma and FF samples were quickly mixed with a protease inhibitor cocktail and stored at -80°C. Ang-(1-7) was quantified in plasma and FF samples by a highly sensitive and specific radioimmunoassay, which was preceded by solid phase extraction, speed vacuum concentration and sample reconstitution in assay buffer. FF Ang-(1-7) levels were stratified into tertiles and the patients of each tertile were compared for COS/IVF outcomes using Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA. Multiple regression analysis was used to adjust correlations for potential confounders. The mRNA encoding for Mas, a receptor for Ang-(1-7), was investigated by real-time PCR in luteinized granulosa cells purified from the FF. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE There was a four-fold increase in plasma Ang-(1-7) after ovulation induction (median 160.9 vs 41.4 pg/ml, P < 0.0001). FF Ang-(1-7) levels were similar to (169.9 pg/ml) but did not correlate with plasma Ang-(1-7) levels (r = -0.05, P = 0.665). Patients at the highest FF Ang-(1-7) tertile had a higher proportion of mature oocytes compared to patients at the lower FF Ang-(1-7) tertile (median 100% vs 70%, P < 0.01). There was a linear correlation between FF Ang-(1-7) and the proportion of mature oocytes (r = 0.380, P < 0.01), which remained significant after adjustment for age and duration of infertility (r = 0.447, P < 0.001). The luteinized granulosa cells expressed Mas receptor mRNA, which was positively correlated to the number of mature oocytes in women with more than three mature oocytes retrieved (r = 0.42, P < 0.01). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This is an observational study, therefore, no causal relationship can be established between Ang-(1-7) and human oocyte maturation. Mas protein expression was not quantified due to limited availability of granulosa cells. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Since this peptide promotes oocyte maturation in other species, it deserves further investigation as a potential maturation factor to human oocytes. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTEREST(S) Research supported by Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) and Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de Minas Gerais (FAPEMIG). The authors have nothing to disclose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines K Cavallo
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Alfredo Balena 110-9o andar, Belo Horizonte, MG 30130-100, Brazil
| | - Cynthia Dela Cruz
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Alfredo Balena 110-9o andar, Belo Horizonte, MG 30130-100, Brazil
| | - Marilene L Oliveira
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos 6627, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Helen L Del Puerto
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Alfredo Balena 110-9o andar, Belo Horizonte, MG 30130-100, Brazil
| | - Júlia A Dias
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Alfredo Balena 110-9o andar, Belo Horizonte, MG 30130-100, Brazil
| | - Veronica N Lobach
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Alfredo Balena 110-9o andar, Belo Horizonte, MG 30130-100, Brazil
| | - Maíra Casalechi
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Alfredo Balena 110-9o andar, Belo Horizonte, MG 30130-100, Brazil
| | - Maria G Camargos
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Alfredo Balena 110-9o andar, Belo Horizonte, MG 30130-100, Brazil
| | - Adelina M Reis
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos 6627, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Robson A Santos
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos 6627, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Fernando M Reis
- Division of Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Alfredo Balena 110-9o andar, Belo Horizonte, MG 30130-100, Brazil
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Ferrero H, Díaz-Gimeno P, Sebastián-León P, Faus A, Gómez R, Pellicer A. Dysregulated genes and their functional pathways in luteinized granulosa cells from PCOS patients after cabergoline treatment. Reproduction 2018; 155:373-381. [PMID: 29439093 DOI: 10.1530/rep-18-0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common reproductive disorder frequently associated with a substantial risk factor for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Dopamine receptor 2 (D2) agonists, like cabergoline (Cb2), have been used to reduce the OHSS risk. However, lutein granulosa cells (LGCs) from PCOS patients treated with Cb2 still show a deregulated dopaminergic tone (decreased D2 expression and low dopamine production) and increased vascularization compared to non-PCOS LGCs. Therefore, to understand the PCOS ovarian physiology, it is important to explore the mechanisms that underlie syndrome based on the therapeutic effects of Cb2. Here, LGCs from non-PCOS and PCOS patients were cultured with hCG in the absence/presence of Cb2 (n = 12). Subsequently, a transcriptomic-paired design that compared untreated vs treated LGCs within each patient was performed. After transcriptomic analysis, functions and genes were prioritized by systems biology approaches and validated by RT-qPCR. We identified that similar functions were altered in both PCOS and non-PCOS LGCs treated with Cb2; however, PCOS-treated LGCs exhibited more significant changes than non-PCOS. Among the prioritized functions, dopaminergic synapse, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling, apoptosis and ovarian steroidogenesis were highlighted. Finally, network modeling showed CASP9, VEGFA, AKT1, CREB, AIF, MAOA, MAPK14 and BMAL1 as key genes implicated in these pathways in Cb2 response, which might be potential biomarkers for further studies in PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Ferrero
- Fundación IVIInstituto Universitario IVI, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria INCLIVAValencia, Spain
| | - P Díaz-Gimeno
- Fundación IVIInstituto Universitario IVI, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria INCLIVAValencia, Spain
| | - P Sebastián-León
- Fundación IVIInstituto Universitario IVI, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria INCLIVAValencia, Spain
| | - A Faus
- Fundación IVIInstituto Universitario IVI, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - R Gómez
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria INCLIVAValencia, Spain
| | - A Pellicer
- Fundación IVIInstituto Universitario IVI, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La FeValencia, Spain
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Naji M, Nekoonam S, Aleyasin A, Arefian E, Mahdian R, Azizi E, Shabani Nashtaei M, Amidi F. Expression of miR-15a, miR-145, and miR-182 in granulosa-lutein cells, follicular fluid, and serum of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Arch Gynecol Obstet 2017; 297:221-231. [PMID: 29071578 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-017-4570-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrinopathies that affects women in reproductive age. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play crucial roles in normal function of female reproductive system and folliculogenesis. Deregulated expression of miRNAs in PCOS condition may be significantly implicated in the pathogenesis of PCOS. We determined relative expression of miR-15a, miR-145, and miR-182 in granulosa-lutein cells (GLCs), follicular fluid (FF), and serum of PCOS patients. METHODS Human subjects were divided into PCOS (n = 20) and control (n = 21) groups. GLCs, FF, and serum were isolated and stored. RNA isolation was performed and cDNA was reversely transcribed using specific stem-loop RT primers. Relative expression of miRNAs was calculated after normalization against U6 expression. Correlation of miRNAs' expression level with basic clinical features and predictive value of miRNAs in FF and serum were appraised. RESULTS Relative expression of miR-145 and miR-182 in GLCs was significantly decreased in PCOS, but miR-182 in FF of PCOS patients revealed up-regulated levels. Significant correlations between level of miRNAs in FF and serum and hormonal profile of subjects were observed. MiR-182 in FF showed a significant predictive value with AUC of 0.73, 76.4% sensitivity, and 70.5% specificity which was improved after combination of miR-182 and miR-145. CONCLUSIONS A significant dysregulation of miR-145 and miR-182 in GLCs of PCOS may indicate their involvement in pathogenesis of PCOS. Differential up-regulation of miR-182 in FF of PCOS patients with its promising predictive values for discrimination of PCOS reinforced the importance of studying miRNAs' profile in FF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Naji
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeid Nekoonam
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ashraf Aleyasin
- Department of Infertility, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Arefian
- Molecular Virology Lab, Department of Microbiology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Mahdian
- Molecular Medicine Department, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elham Azizi
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Shabani Nashtaei
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fardin Amidi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Cheng J, Huang J, Yuan S, Zhou S, Yan W, Shen W, Chen Y, Xia X, Luo A, Zhu D, Wang S. Circular RNA expression profiling of human granulosa cells during maternal aging reveals novel transcripts associated with assisted reproductive technology outcomes. PLoS One 2017. [PMID: 28644873 PMCID: PMC5482436 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0177888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a unique class of endogenous RNAs which could be used as potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers of many diseases. Our study aimed to investigate circRNA profiles in human granulosa cells (GCs) during maternal aging and to uncover age-related circRNA variations that potentially reflect decreased oocyte competence. CircRNAs in GCs from in vitro fertilization (IVF) patients with young age (YA, ≤ 30 years) and advanced age (AA, ≥ 38 years) were profiled by microarray, and validated in 20 paired samples. The correlation between circRNAs expression and clinical characteristics was analyzed in additional 80 samples. Chip-based analysis revealed 46 up-regulated and 11 down-regulated circRNAs in AA samples (fold change > 2.0). Specifically, circRNA_103829, circRNA_103827 and circRNA_104816 were validated to be up-regulated, while circRNA_101889 was down-regulated in AA samples. After adjustment for gonadotropin treatment, only circRNA_103827 and circRNA_104816 levels were positively associated with maternal age (partial r = 0.332, P = 0.045; partial r = 0.473, P = 0.003; respectively). Moreover, circRNA_103827 and circRNA_104816 expressions in GCs were negatively correlated with the number of top quality embryos (r = -0.235, P = 0.036; r = -0.221, P = 0.049; respectively). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis indicated that the performance of circRNA_103827 for live birth prediction reached 0.698 [0.570–0.825], with 77.2% sensitivity and 60.9% specificity (P = 0.006), and that of circRNA_104816 was 0.645 [0.507–0.783] (P = 0.043). Bioinformatics analysis revealed that both circRNAs were potentially involved in glucose metabolism, mitotic cell cycle, and ovarian steroidogenesis. Therefore, age-related up-regulation of circRNA_103827 and circRNA_104816 might be potential indicators of compromised follicular micro-environment which could be used to predict IVF prognosis, and improve female infertility management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R.China
| | - Jia Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R.China
| | - Suzhen Yuan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R.China
| | - Su Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R.China
| | - Wei Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R.China
| | - Wei Shen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R.China
| | - Yun Chen
- Ultrasonic Department, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, P.R.China
| | - Xi Xia
- Reproductive Center, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, P.R.China
| | - Aiyue Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R.China
| | - Da Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R.China
| | - Shixuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, P.R.China
- * E-mail:
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The elusive MAESTRO gene: Its human reproductive tissue-specific expression pattern. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0174873. [PMID: 28406912 PMCID: PMC5391009 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0174873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2016] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The encoded transcript of the Maestro—Male-specific Transcription in the developing Reproductive Organs (MRO) gene exhibits sexual dimorphic expression during murine gonadal development. The gene has no homology to any known gene and its expression pattern, protein function or structure are still unknown. Previously, studying gene expression in human ovarian cumulus cells, we found increased expression of MRO in lean-type Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) subjects, as compared to controls. In this study, we examined the MRO splice variants and protein expression pattern in various human tissues and cells. We found a differential expression pattern of the MRO 5’-UTR region in luteinized granulosa-cumulus cells and in testicular tissues as compared to non-gonadal tissues. Our study also shows a punctate nuclear expression pattern and disperse cytoplasmic expression pattern of the MRO protein in human granulosa-cumulus cells and in testicular germ cells, which was later validated by western blotting. The tentative and unique features of the protein hampered our efforts to gain more insight about this elusive protein. A better understanding of the tissue-specific MRO isoforms expression patterns and the unique structure of the protein may provide important insights into the function of this gene and possibly to the pathophysiology of PCOS.
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Dibutyl phthalate impairs steroidogenesis and a subset of LH-dependent genes in cultured human mural granulosa cell in vitro. Reprod Toxicol 2017; 69:13-18. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2016.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Revised: 11/29/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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Nekoonam S, Naji M, Nashtaei MS, Mortezaee K, Koruji M, Safdarian L, Amidi F. Expression of AKT1 along with AKT2 in granulosa-lutein cells of hyperandrogenic PCOS patients. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2017; 295:1041-1050. [PMID: 28271235 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-017-4317-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE AKTs have a pivotal role in the granulosa-lutein cell (GC) proliferation and folliculogenesis, and there is a reciprocal feedback between AKT with androgen. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the role of AKTs in GCs of hyperandrogenic (+HA) PCOS cases. METHOD There were three groups: control, +HA PCOS and -HA (non-hyperandrogenic) PCOS. All groups were subjected to GnRH antagonist protocol for stimulation of ovulation. Follicular fluid was aspirated from large follicles, and GCs were isolated using cell strainer method. AKT1, AKT2, AKT3, and androgen receptor (AR) mRNA expressions were analyzed with quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), and total-AKT and p-AKT (Ser473 & Thr308) were investigated using western blotting. RESULTS There were high levels of AKT1, AKT2, and AR mRNA expressions and high levels of p-AKT protein expression in the +HA PCOS group (p ≤ 0.05). There was a direct positive correlation between free testosterone (FT) and total testosterone (TT) with the levels of AKT1, AKT2, and p-AKT (Ser473), and also between FT with the levels of AR. CONCLUSION High expressions of AKT1 and AKT2 through possible relation with androgen may cause GCs dysfunction in the +HA PCOS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeid Nekoonam
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Pour Sina St, Tehran, Postal code 1417613151, Iran
| | - Mohammad Naji
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Pour Sina St, Tehran, Postal code 1417613151, Iran
| | - Maryam Shabani Nashtaei
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Pour Sina St, Tehran, Postal code 1417613151, Iran
| | - Keywan Mortezaee
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Morteza Koruji
- Department of Anatomy, School of medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leili Safdarian
- Department of Infertility, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fardin Amidi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Pour Sina St, Tehran, Postal code 1417613151, Iran. .,Department of Infertility, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Mansur A, Israel A, Combelles CMH, Adir M, Racowsky C, Hauser R, Baccarelli AA, Machtinger R. Bisphenol-A exposure and gene expression in human luteinized membrana granulosa cells in vitro. Hum Reprod 2016; 32:409-417. [PMID: 27979917 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Revised: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 11/12/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does bisphenol-A (BPA) affect gene expression in human membrana granulosa cells (MGC)? SUMMARY ANSWER In vitro, short exposure to supra-physiological concentrations of BPA alters human MGC gene expression. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Exposure to BPA may interfere with reproductive endocrine signaling. In vitro studies, mostly in animal models, have shown an inverse correlation between exposure to BPA and follicular growth, meiosis, and steroid hormone production in granulosa cells. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Primary cultures of MGC obtained from 24 patients undergoing IVF (for PGD, male factor infertility or unexplained infertility) were exposed to various concentrations of BPA (0, 0.02, 0.2, 2 or 20 µg/ml) for 48 h. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The study was conducted in a university-affiliated hospital. Microarray analysis was used to identify genes exhibiting expression changes following BPA exposure. Genes significantly altered were identified based on changes greater than 2-fold relative to the control group (not treated by BPA) and a Student's t-test P-value <0.05. Statistical significance was adjusted for multiple comparisons using the Benjamini-Hochberg method. Alterations in the expression of genes that are involved in the enriched functional annotations altered by BPA at the concentration of 20 µg/ml were confirmed by real-time PCR. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A distinct pattern of gene expression was observed in primary cultures of MGC exposed to the highest BPA concentration compared with untreated cells. We identified 652 genes that exhibited at least 2-fold differences in expression after BPA exposure (all P < 0.05 versus untreated). These genes were significantly enriched for annotations related to cell cycle progression, segregation of chromosomes, steroid metabolism, apoptosis, lipid synthesis, oocyte maturation and chromosomal alignment. No significant changes in gene expression were found at the lower doses of BPA most relevant to human exposure. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Human exposure to BPA in vivo occurs over long periods of time. In this in vitro model, cells were exposed to the chemical for 48 h only. Thus, the effects of BPA on the human follicle might be underestimated. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS As BPA exposure is ubiquitous, understanding the effects of the chemical on the ovary, specifically in women of reproductive age, has public health significance. The clinical evidence to date points to an association between BPA exposure and impaired IVF outcome, although not all studies have shown negative effects. Our study adds valuable mechanistic information showing that exposure to BPA alters granulosa cell gene expression at high and supra-physiological doses. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This study was supported by grant number 1936/12 from the ISF. The authors have nothing to disclose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdallah Mansur
- Infertility and IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center and Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Hashomer 52561, Israel
| | - Ariel Israel
- Infertility and IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center and Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Hashomer 52561, Israel.,Department of Family Medicine, Clalit Health Services, Jerusalem, Israel
| | | | - Michal Adir
- Infertility and IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center and Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Hashomer 52561, Israel
| | - Catherine Racowsky
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Brigham & Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Russ Hauser
- Departments of Environmental Health and Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andrea A Baccarelli
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ronit Machtinger
- Infertility and IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center and Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Hashomer 52561, Israel
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Blohberger J, Buck T, Berg D, Berg U, Kunz L, Mayerhofer A. L-DOPA in the hu man ovarian follicular fluid acts as an antioxidant factor on granulosa cells. J Ovarian Res 2016; 9:62. [PMID: 27686972 PMCID: PMC5043631 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-016-0269-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Accepted: 09/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A previous study showed that dopamine (DA), which is contained in follicular fluid (FF) from IVF patients, strongly increased the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by cultured human granulosa cells (GCs). ROS, including H2O2, are assumed to play roles in ovarian physiology and pathology. Ovarian DA could be derived from the circulation, ovarian innervation and/or unknown ovarian sources. L-DOPA is the direct precursor of DA in its synthetic pathway. It was not yet described in FF. We examined L-DOPA levels in FF from IVF patients. As it may exert anti-oxidative and ROS-scavenging functions, we studied whether it exerts such actions in human GCs and whether DOPA-decarboxylase (DDC), the enzyme converting L-DOPA to DA, is expressed in the human ovary. RESULTS ELISA measurements revealed that human IVF-derived FF contains L-DOPA. In cultured human GCs automated confluence analyses showed that L-DOPA enhanced their survival. This is in contrast to the actions of DA, which reduced cell survival. A dose-dependent mode of action of L-DOPA was identified using a fluorescent ROS indicator. The results showed that it antagonized intracellular ROS accumulation induced by exogenous H2O2. DDC was absent in follicular GCs, but immunohistochemistry identified it in theca cells (TCs) of large follicles in the human ovary. Laser micro-dissection followed by RT-PCR corroborated the expression. DDC was also identified in the steroidogenic cells of the corpus luteum. CONCLUSIONS L-DOPA in FF is an antioxidant factor and exerts positive influences on GCs. Ovarian DA is derived from L-DOPA and has opposite actions. Exogenous L-DOPA is a standard therapy for Parkinson's disease, and the results raise the possibility that it may be able to exert positive actions as an antioxidant in ovarian conditions, as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Blohberger
- Biomedical Center (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU), Grosshaderner Strasse 9, D-82152, Planegg, Germany
| | - T Buck
- Biomedical Center (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU), Grosshaderner Strasse 9, D-82152, Planegg, Germany
| | - D Berg
- A.R.T. Bogenhausen, D-81675, Munich, Germany
| | - U Berg
- A.R.T. Bogenhausen, D-81675, Munich, Germany
| | - L Kunz
- Division of Neurobiology, Department of Biology II, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU), D-82152, Planegg, Germany
| | - A Mayerhofer
- Biomedical Center (BMC), Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Ludwig-Maximilian-University (LMU), Grosshaderner Strasse 9, D-82152, Planegg, Germany.
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Standard human chorionic gonadotropin versus double trigger for final oocyte maturation results in different granulosa cells gene expressions: a pilot study. Fertil Steril 2016; 106:653-659.e1. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Revised: 06/01/2016] [Accepted: 06/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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47
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Adams J, Liu Z, Ren YA, Wun WS, Zhou W, Kenigsberg S, Librach C, Valdes C, Gibbons W, Richards J. Enhanced Inflammatory Transcriptome in the Granulosa Cells of Women With Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2016; 101:3459-68. [PMID: 27228368 PMCID: PMC5010574 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2015-4275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), the most common endocrine disorder of reproductive-aged women, is associated with systemic low-grade inflammation. OBJECTIVE We propose that increased or altered intrafollicular inflammatory reactions also occur in periovulatory follicles of PCOS patients. DESIGN Gene profiling and quantitative PCR (qPCR) analyses in granulosa-lutein cells (GCs) collected from PCOS and non-PCOS women undergoing in vitro fertilization were compared with serum and follicular fluid (FF) levels of cytokines and chemokines. SETTING This was a university-based study. PATIENTS Twenty-one PCOS and 45 control patients were recruited: demographic, hormone, body mass index, and pregnancy outcomes were abstracted from patient data files. INTERVENTIONS GC cytokine/chemokine mRNAs were identified and analyzed by gene-chip microarrays/qPCR before and after culture with human chorionic gonadotropin, DHT, IL-6, or IL-8; serum/FF cytokine levels were also analyzed. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Relative serum/FF cytokine levels and GC cytokine expression before and after culture were compared and related to body mass index. RESULTS The following results were found: 1) PCOS GCs express elevated transcripts encoding cytokines, chemokines, and immune cell markers, 2) based on gene profiling and qPCR analyses, obese PCOS patients define a distinct PCOS disease subtype with the most dramatic increases in proinflammatory and immune-related factors, and 3) human chorionic gonadotropin and DHT increased cytokine production in cultured GCs, whereas cytokines augmented cytokine and vascular genes, indicating that hyperandrogenism/elevated LH and obesity in PCOS women augment intrafollicular cytokine production. CONCLUSIONS Intrafollicular androgens and cytokines likely comprise a local regulatory loop that impacts GC expression of cytokines and chemokines and the presence of immune cells; this loop is further enhanced in the obese PCOS subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaye Adams
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (J.A., Z.L., Y.A.R., J.R.) and Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (J.A., C.V., W.G.), Baylor College of Medicine, and M. D. Anderson Cancer Center (W.Z.), Houston, Texas 77030; Fertility Specialists of Houston (Z.L., W.-S.W.), Houston, Texas; 77030 and CReATe Fertility Center (S.K., C.L.), Toronto, Canada M5G 1N8
| | - Zhilin Liu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (J.A., Z.L., Y.A.R., J.R.) and Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (J.A., C.V., W.G.), Baylor College of Medicine, and M. D. Anderson Cancer Center (W.Z.), Houston, Texas 77030; Fertility Specialists of Houston (Z.L., W.-S.W.), Houston, Texas; 77030 and CReATe Fertility Center (S.K., C.L.), Toronto, Canada M5G 1N8
| | - Yi Athena Ren
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (J.A., Z.L., Y.A.R., J.R.) and Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (J.A., C.V., W.G.), Baylor College of Medicine, and M. D. Anderson Cancer Center (W.Z.), Houston, Texas 77030; Fertility Specialists of Houston (Z.L., W.-S.W.), Houston, Texas; 77030 and CReATe Fertility Center (S.K., C.L.), Toronto, Canada M5G 1N8
| | - Wan-Song Wun
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (J.A., Z.L., Y.A.R., J.R.) and Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (J.A., C.V., W.G.), Baylor College of Medicine, and M. D. Anderson Cancer Center (W.Z.), Houston, Texas 77030; Fertility Specialists of Houston (Z.L., W.-S.W.), Houston, Texas; 77030 and CReATe Fertility Center (S.K., C.L.), Toronto, Canada M5G 1N8
| | - Wei Zhou
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (J.A., Z.L., Y.A.R., J.R.) and Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (J.A., C.V., W.G.), Baylor College of Medicine, and M. D. Anderson Cancer Center (W.Z.), Houston, Texas 77030; Fertility Specialists of Houston (Z.L., W.-S.W.), Houston, Texas; 77030 and CReATe Fertility Center (S.K., C.L.), Toronto, Canada M5G 1N8
| | - Shlomit Kenigsberg
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (J.A., Z.L., Y.A.R., J.R.) and Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (J.A., C.V., W.G.), Baylor College of Medicine, and M. D. Anderson Cancer Center (W.Z.), Houston, Texas 77030; Fertility Specialists of Houston (Z.L., W.-S.W.), Houston, Texas; 77030 and CReATe Fertility Center (S.K., C.L.), Toronto, Canada M5G 1N8
| | - Clifford Librach
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (J.A., Z.L., Y.A.R., J.R.) and Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (J.A., C.V., W.G.), Baylor College of Medicine, and M. D. Anderson Cancer Center (W.Z.), Houston, Texas 77030; Fertility Specialists of Houston (Z.L., W.-S.W.), Houston, Texas; 77030 and CReATe Fertility Center (S.K., C.L.), Toronto, Canada M5G 1N8
| | - Cecilia Valdes
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (J.A., Z.L., Y.A.R., J.R.) and Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (J.A., C.V., W.G.), Baylor College of Medicine, and M. D. Anderson Cancer Center (W.Z.), Houston, Texas 77030; Fertility Specialists of Houston (Z.L., W.-S.W.), Houston, Texas; 77030 and CReATe Fertility Center (S.K., C.L.), Toronto, Canada M5G 1N8
| | - William Gibbons
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (J.A., Z.L., Y.A.R., J.R.) and Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (J.A., C.V., W.G.), Baylor College of Medicine, and M. D. Anderson Cancer Center (W.Z.), Houston, Texas 77030; Fertility Specialists of Houston (Z.L., W.-S.W.), Houston, Texas; 77030 and CReATe Fertility Center (S.K., C.L.), Toronto, Canada M5G 1N8
| | - JoAnne Richards
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology (J.A., Z.L., Y.A.R., J.R.) and Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (J.A., C.V., W.G.), Baylor College of Medicine, and M. D. Anderson Cancer Center (W.Z.), Houston, Texas 77030; Fertility Specialists of Houston (Z.L., W.-S.W.), Houston, Texas; 77030 and CReATe Fertility Center (S.K., C.L.), Toronto, Canada M5G 1N8
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Altered FoxO3 expression and apoptosis in granulosa cells of women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2016; 294:185-92. [PMID: 26993517 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-016-4068-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2015] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the level of apoptosis, and alteration of FoxO3 (forkhead box O3 transcription factor) expression and phosphorylation in human granulosa cells amongst polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients and control group. METHODS We recruited infertile women with PCOS (n = 14) and compared them with infertile women due to tubal blockage or male factor infertility (n = 14, controls). GnRH agonist and gonadotropins were used for ovarian stimulation. Follicular fluids from large follicles (>16 mm) were pooled and granulosa cells (GCs) were isolated using cell strainer methodology. Apoptosis of purified GCs was measured by flow cytometry using Annexin V and propidium iodide. Quantitative real-time PCR and western blotting were performed to assess alteration of FoxO3 expression and phosphorylation in GCs. RESULTS There were higher percentages of early and late apoptosis in GCs of PCOS patients than in the control group. FoxO3 mRNA level and total FoxO3 protein were significantly higher in PCOS group than in the control group. The ratio of p-FoxO3/total FoxO3 decreased significantly in PCOS than in the control group. It was inferred that unphosphorylated (active form) FoxO3 was higher in GCs of PCOS patients. Apoptosis was significantly and positively correlated with the total FoxO3 and negatively correlated with the p-FoxO3 protein levels in PCOS patients. CONCLUSIONS Activation and overexpression of FoxO3 in granulosa cells of PCOS women correlated with higher apoptosis levels in these cells suggesting that FoxO3 may be a candidate for the higher apoptosis in granulosa cells from women with PCOS.
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Artimani T, Saidijam M, Aflatoonian R, Ashrafi M, Amiri I, Yavangi M, SoleimaniAsl S, Shabab N, Karimi J, Mehdizadeh M. Downregulation of adiponectin system in granulosa cells and low levels of HMW adiponectin in PCOS. J Assist Reprod Genet 2015; 33:101-10. [PMID: 26631404 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-015-0620-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2015] [Accepted: 11/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of the study was to investigate changes in adiponectin system expression in granulosa cells (GCs) and high molecular weight adiponectin levels in serum and follicular fluid (FF) of 40 women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) compared to those in 40 women with normal ovary function. METHODS Adiponectin (Adipo), adiponectin receptor 1 (AdipoR1), and adiponectin receptor 2 (AdipoR2) messenger RNA (mRNA) expression levels were measured using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). High molecular weight (HMW) adiponectin protein concentration was evaluated by ELISA method. Data were analyzed using Student's t test and one-way ANOVA in SPSS 21 software. At oocyte retrieval, FF was aspirated and GCs were obtained from a pooled collection of FF per each patient. RESULTS PCR results showed expression of adiponectin, AdipoR1, AdipoR2, follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR), and luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR) in GCs. After controlling body mass index (BMI) values, qRT-PCR demonstrated a decreased expression of adiponectin system in GCs of PCOS patients compared to those in controls (p = 0.001). There was a strong positive correlation among AdipoR1 and AdipoR2 expression and also among FSH and LH receptor expression. (Both r = 0.8, p = 0.001). There were low levels of high molecular weight adiponectin in the serum of PCOS patients with controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (30.19 ± 4.3 ng/ml) compared to the controls (48.47 ± 5.9 ng/ml) and in the FF of PCOS patients with controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (7.86 ± 1.44 ng/ml) compared to the controls (14.22 ± 2.01 ng/ml; p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS Lower expression of adiponectin and its receptors in GCs might be an important manifestation in gonadotropin-stimulated PCOS patients which could influence the physiologic adiponectin roles such as interaction with insulin and LH in induction of GC gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tayebe Artimani
- Anatomy Department, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Endometrium and Endometriosis Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Massoud Saidijam
- Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Reza Aflatoonian
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahnaz Ashrafi
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Iraj Amiri
- Endometrium and Endometriosis Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Mahnaz Yavangi
- Endometrium and Endometriosis Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Sara SoleimaniAsl
- Endometrium and Endometriosis Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Nooshin Shabab
- Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Jamshid Karimi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mehdizadeh
- Anatomy Department, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Advanced Technology in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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50
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Aghadavod E, Zarghami N, Farzadi L, Zare M, Barzegari A, Movassaghpour AA, Nouri M. Isolation of granulosa cells from follicular fluid; applications in biomedical and molecular biology experiments. Adv Biomed Res 2015; 4:250. [PMID: 26918232 PMCID: PMC4746942 DOI: 10.4103/2277-9175.170675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2013] [Accepted: 05/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recently, a lot of research has been conducted to investigate the molecular mechanisms of the low quality of oocytes with granulosa cells (GCs). GCs are one of the major cell types found in follicular fluid and purification of these cells from the follicular fluid is very important for further studies. Although, there are different techniques of purification, a method for separation of highly-pure and minimally-damaged cells is necessary. In this paper, we presented a novel method for high purification of GCs with a large quantity and high purity. MATERIALS AND METHODS Follicular fluid was collected from patients who referred for in vitro fertilization and GCs in follicular fluid were extracted by Ficoll, Percoll and Red blood cell lysing buffer (RLB) methods. Then purity of extracted GCs was assessed by flow cytometry and morphological properties of GCs were observed by differential interference contrast microscopy. The purity of deoxyribonucleic acid and ribonucleic acid extracts was examined by NanoDrop 1000, pre-restriction fragment length polymorphism and electrophoresis techniques. Quality and quantity of extracting GCs were affected during the cell separation procedures. RESULTS Our results showed that each of purification method can affect quality and quantity of extracted cells. CONCLUSION RLB method for extraction of GCs was shown to be a convenient procedure in comparison with Ficoll and Percoll methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esmat Aghadavod
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nosratollah Zarghami
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Laya Farzadi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mina Zare
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Barzegari
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Akbar Movassaghpour
- Hemathology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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