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Nguyen TMD, Nguyen TT, Combarnous Y. Single-chain human follicle-stimulating hormone with a di-N-glycosylated linker. Theriogenology 2024; 224:50-57. [PMID: 38733814 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
The classic way to produce single-chain (sc) glycoprotein hormones is to fuse their two subunits through the carboxy-terminal peptide (CTP) from human Choriogonadotropin (hCG). The CTP confers a longer half-life to single-chain hormones thanks to its four O-glycosyl side chains. However, unlike syncytiotrophoblastic cells, most cells used for recombinant protein production do not transfer O-glycosyl chains efficiently. We thus choose to fuse the hFSH subunits with a linker comprising two N-glycosyl side chains (sc-hFSH LNN) or none (sc-hFSH L0N), that were generated using two expression systems, HEK293 and CHO K1 cells. Their production levels and biological activities were tested and compared. Both expression systems successfully produced biologically active sc-hFSH, but, in our hands, CHO K1 cells yielded about 30-fold higher amounts of recombinant protein than HEK293 cells. Moreover, sc-hFSH L0N was considerably less expressed than sc-hFSH LNN in both cell types. Our data show that sc-hFSH L0N and sc-hFSH LNN produced from both cell lines stimulate cAMP and progesterone production in mLTC cells expressing hFSH receptors and exhibit similar B/I (in vitro Bioactivity/Immuno activity) ratios. Finally, the ratio of in vivo/in vitro bioactivities for sc-hFSH LNN relative to natural pituitary heterodimeric hFSH increased 8-fold, most likely because of a longer half-life in the blood.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thi Tho Nguyen
- Quy Nhon University, Binh Dinh Province, Viet Nam; Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Viet Nam
| | - Yves Combarnous
- Joint INRAE, CNRS, Tours University Unit, Physiologie de La Reproduction & des Comportements (PRC), 37380, Nouzilly, France
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Abreu C, Grunberg K, Bonilla M, Crispo M, Pantano S, Jaeschke J, Comini MA, Bollati‐Fogolín M. Expression and functional characterization of chimeric recombinant bovine follicle-stimulating hormone produced in Leishmania tarentolae. Microb Biotechnol 2024; 17:e14444. [PMID: 38564168 PMCID: PMC10986757 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.14444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproductive techniques are routinely used in livestock species to increase and enhance productivity. Ovarian hyperstimulation is a process that currently relies on administering pituitary-derived follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) or equine chorionic gonadotropin in combination with other hormones to promote the maturation of multiple follicles and thereby achieve superovulation. The use of partially purified preparations of FSH extracted from natural sources is associated with suboptimal and variable results. Recombinant FSH (rFSH) has been produced in a variety of heterologous organisms. However, attaining a bioactive rFSH of high quality and at low cost for use in livestock remains challenging. Here we report the production and characterization of a single chain bovine rFSH consisting of the β- and α-subunit fused by a polypeptide linker (scbFSH) using Leishmania tarentolae as heterologous expression system. This unicellular eukaryote is non-pathogenic to mammals, can be grown in bioreactors using simple and inexpensive semisynthetic media at 26°C and does not require CO2 or bovine serum supplementation. Stable cell lines expressing scbFSH in an inducible fashion were generated and characterized for their productivity. Different culture conditions and purification procedures were evaluated, and the recombinant product was biochemically and biologically characterized, including bioassays in an animal model. The results demonstrate that L. tarentolae is a suitable host for producing a homogeneous, glycosylated and biologically active form of scbFSH with a reasonable yield.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Abreu
- Molecular, Cellular and Animal Technology ProgramInstitut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
| | - Karin Grunberg
- Molecular, Cellular and Animal Technology ProgramInstitut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
| | - Mariana Bonilla
- Laboratory Redox Biology of TrypanosomesInstitut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
| | - Martina Crispo
- Molecular, Cellular and Animal Technology ProgramInstitut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
- Laboratory Animal Biotechnology UnitInstitut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
| | - Sergio Pantano
- Molecular, Cellular and Animal Technology ProgramInstitut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
- Biomolecular Simulations GroupInstitut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
| | | | - Marcelo A. Comini
- Molecular, Cellular and Animal Technology ProgramInstitut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
- Laboratory Redox Biology of TrypanosomesInstitut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
| | - Mariela Bollati‐Fogolín
- Molecular, Cellular and Animal Technology ProgramInstitut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
- Cell Biology Unit, Institut Pasteur de MontevideoMontevideoUruguay
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Kim D, Lee S, Cho YH, Kang MJ, Ku CR, Chi H, Ahn J, Lee K, Han J, Chi S, Song MY, Cha SH, Lee EJ. Long-acting recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone (SAFA-FSH) enhances spermatogenesis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1132172. [PMID: 36909328 PMCID: PMC9996080 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1132172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Administration of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) has been recommended to stimulate spermatogenesis in infertile men with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, whose sperm counts do not respond to human chorionic gonadotropin alone. However, FSH has a short serum half-life requiring frequent administration to maintain its therapeutic efficacy. To improve its pharmacokinetic properties, we developed a unique albumin-binder technology, termed "anti-serum albumin Fab-associated" (SAFA) technology. We tested the feasibility of applying SAFA technology to create long-acting FSH as a therapeutic candidate for patients with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. METHODS SAFA-FSH was produced using a Chinese hamster ovary expression system. To confirm the biological function, the production of cyclic AMP and phosphorylation of ERK and CREB were measured in TM4-FSHR cells. The effect of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists on spermatogenesis in a hypogonadal rat model was investigated. RESULTS In in vitro experiments, SAFA-FSH treatment increased the production of cyclic AMP and increased the phosphorylation of ERK and CREB in a dose-dependent manner. In animal experiments, sperm production was not restored by human chorionic gonadotropin treatment alone, but was restored after additional recombinant FSH treatment thrice per week or once every 5 days. Sperm production was restored even after additional SAFA-FSH treatment at intervals of once every 5 or 10 days. DISCUSSION Long-acting FSH with bioactivity was successfully created using SAFA technology. These data support further development of SAFA-FSH in a clinical setting, potentially representing an important advancement in the treatment of patients with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daham Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Endocrine Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soohyun Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Endocrine Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon Hee Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Endocrine Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Jeong Kang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Endocrine Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Cheol Ryong Ku
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Endocrine Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunjin Chi
- AprilBio Co., Ltd., Rm 602, Biomedical Science Building, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jungsuk Ahn
- AprilBio Co., Ltd., Rm 602, Biomedical Science Building, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyungsun Lee
- AprilBio Co., Ltd., Rm 602, Biomedical Science Building, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaekyu Han
- AprilBio Co., Ltd., Rm 602, Biomedical Science Building, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Susan Chi
- AprilBio Co., Ltd., Rm 602, Biomedical Science Building, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Moo Young Song
- AprilBio Co., Ltd., Rm 602, Biomedical Science Building, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Hoon Cha
- AprilBio Co., Ltd., Rm 602, Biomedical Science Building, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Jig Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Institute of Endocrine Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- *Correspondence: Eun Jig Lee,
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Wang JM, Li ZF, Yang WX, Tan FQ. Follicle-stimulating hormone signaling in Sertoli cells: a licence to the early stages of spermatogenesis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:97. [PMID: 35780146 PMCID: PMC9250200 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00971-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone signaling is essential for the initiation and early stages of spermatogenesis. Follicle-stimulating hormone receptor is exclusively expressed in Sertoli cells. As the only type of somatic cell in the seminiferous tubule, Sertoli cells regulate spermatogenesis not only by controlling their own number and function but also through paracrine actions to nourish germ cells surrounded by Sertoli cells. After follicle-stimulating hormone binds to its receptor and activates the follicle-stimulating hormone signaling pathway, follicle-stimulating hormone signaling will establish a normal Sertoli cell number and promote their differentiation. Spermatogonia pool maintenance, spermatogonia differentiation and their entry into meiosis are also positively regulated by follicle-stimulating hormone signaling. In addition, follicle-stimulating hormone signaling regulates germ cell survival and limits their apoptosis. Our review summarizes the aforementioned functions of follicle-stimulating hormone signaling in Sertoli cells. We also describe the clinical potential of follicle-stimulating hormone treatment in male patients with infertility. Furthermore, our review may be helpful for developing better therapies for treating patients with dysfunctional follicle-stimulating hormone signaling in Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Ming Wang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Zhen-Fang Li
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Wan-Xi Yang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
| | - Fu-Qing Tan
- The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China.
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Hua R, Liu J, Li Y, Fan Y, Zeng B, Geng G, Li Q. Novel Functional Recombinant Human Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Acquired from Goat Milk. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2021; 69:2793-2804. [PMID: 33645971 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.0c07208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
An animal mammary bioreactor is regarded as an excellent biological system which is applied to produce large-scale recombinant proteins in milk. However, there are no effective methods to produce a large amount of some pharmaceutical proteins, such as human follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), by large animal mammary gland bioreactors due to the fact that accumulation of excessive bioactive FSH might cause serious diseases in animals. Here, we report a novel strategy of preparing recombinant human FSH (rhFSH) from goat mammary glands, which could avoid the accumulation of bioactive FSH in goats. First, the single inactive FSHα and FSHβ subunits expressed in goat mammary epithelial cells and goat mammary glands were performed to reassemble in vitro and were found to self-assemble into a complete heterodimer rhFSH at 4 °C and pH 7.4. Further, a cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) induction assay showed that the cAMP levels in cell lysate of HEK 293/FSHR cells were increased by about 8-fold in reassembled rhFSH groups than that in the control group (P < 0.01). Pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that the reassembled rhFSH from goat mammary glands was comparable to that of the commercially available Gonal-F (P > 0.05). In addition, the increasing dose of reassembled rhFSH significantly promoted ovulation of mouse and ovary weight gain of Sprague Dawley rat compared with the control groups and maximum values were up to 3-fold (P < 0.01) and 2.8-fold (P < 0.01), respectively. The reassembled rhFSH showed a similar effect to Gonal-F in inducing expression of FSH target genes in vivo and activating the PI3K pathway in granulosa cells. Our study developed a novel method to produce rhFSH and provided the basis for preparing FSH by the goat mammary gland bioreactor with less health problems on the producing animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongmao Hua
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, P. R. China
| | - Jianxi Liu
- Institute of Special Environmental Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, P. R. China
| | - Yuan Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, P. R. China
| | - Yan Fan
- College of Life Science, Jiangxi Science & Technology Normal University, Nanchang 330013, P. R. China
| | - Bin Zeng
- College of Life Science, Jiangxi Science & Technology Normal University, Nanchang 330013, P. R. China
| | - Guoxia Geng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling 712100, P. R. China
| | - Qingwang Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, P. R. China
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Follicle-stimulating Hormone (FSH) Action on Spermatogenesis: A Focus on Physiological and Therapeutic Roles. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9041014. [PMID: 32260182 PMCID: PMC7230878 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9041014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human reproduction is regulated by the combined action of the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and the luteinizing hormone (LH) on the gonads. Although FSH is largely used in female reproduction, in particular in women attending assisted reproductive techniques to stimulate multi-follicular growth, its efficacy in men with idiopathic infertility is not clearly demonstrated. Indeed, whether FSH administration improves fertility in patients with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, the therapeutic benefit in men presenting alterations in sperm production despite normal FSH serum levels is still unclear. In the present review, we evaluate the potential pharmacological benefits of FSH administration in clinical practice. METHODS This is a narrative review, describing the FSH physiological role in spermatogenesis and its potential therapeutic action in men. RESULTS The FSH role on male fertility is reviewed starting from the physiological control of spermatogenesis, throughout its mechanism of action in Sertoli cells, the genetic regulation of its action on spermatogenesis, until the therapeutic options available to improve sperm production. CONCLUSION FSH administration in infertile men has potential benefits, although its action should be considered by evaluating its synergic action with testosterone, and well-controlled, powerful trials are required. Prospective studies and new compounds could be developed in the near future.
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Casarini L, Crépieux P, Reiter E, Lazzaretti C, Paradiso E, Rochira V, Brigante G, Santi D, Simoni M. FSH for the Treatment of Male Infertility. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21072270. [PMID: 32218314 PMCID: PMC7177393 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21072270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) supports spermatogenesis acting via its receptor (FSHR), which activates trophic effects in gonadal Sertoli cells. These pathways are targeted by hormonal drugs used for clinical treatment of infertile men, mainly belonging to sub-groups defined as hypogonadotropic hypogonadism or idiopathic infertility. While, in the first case, fertility may be efficiently restored by specific treatments, such as pulsatile gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) or choriogonadotropin (hCG) alone or in combination with FSH, less is known about the efficacy of FSH in supporting the treatment of male idiopathic infertility. This review focuses on the role of FSH in the clinical approach to male reproduction, addressing the state-of-the-art from the little data available and discussing the pharmacological evidence. New compounds, such as allosteric ligands, dually active, chimeric gonadotropins and immunoglobulins, may represent interesting avenues for future personalized, pharmacological approaches to male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livio Casarini
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (E.P.); (V.R.); (G.B.); (D.S.); (M.S.)
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0593961705; Fax: +39-0593962018
| | - Pascale Crépieux
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC), Institut National de Recherche pour l’Agriculture, l’Alimentation et l’Environnement (INRAE), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut Français du Cheval et de l’Equitation (IFCE), Université de Tours, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (P.C.); (E.R.)
| | - Eric Reiter
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC), Institut National de Recherche pour l’Agriculture, l’Alimentation et l’Environnement (INRAE), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut Français du Cheval et de l’Equitation (IFCE), Université de Tours, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (P.C.); (E.R.)
| | - Clara Lazzaretti
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (E.P.); (V.R.); (G.B.); (D.S.); (M.S.)
- International PhD School in Clinical and Experimental Medicine (CEM), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Elia Paradiso
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (E.P.); (V.R.); (G.B.); (D.S.); (M.S.)
- International PhD School in Clinical and Experimental Medicine (CEM), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Rochira
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (E.P.); (V.R.); (G.B.); (D.S.); (M.S.)
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Brigante
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (E.P.); (V.R.); (G.B.); (D.S.); (M.S.)
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Daniele Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (E.P.); (V.R.); (G.B.); (D.S.); (M.S.)
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy; (C.L.); (E.P.); (V.R.); (G.B.); (D.S.); (M.S.)
- Center for Genomic Research, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 287, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements (PRC), Institut National de Recherche pour l’Agriculture, l’Alimentation et l’Environnement (INRAE), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut Français du Cheval et de l’Equitation (IFCE), Université de Tours, 37380 Nouzilly, France; (P.C.); (E.R.)
- Unit of Endocrinology, Department of Medical Specialties, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Via P. Giardini 1355, 41126 Modena, Italy
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Development of reporter gene assays to determine the bioactivity of biopharmaceuticals. Biotechnol Adv 2020; 39:107466. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2019.107466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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9
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Simoni M, Santi D. FSH treatment of male idiopathic infertility: Time for a paradigm change. Andrology 2020; 8:535-544. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Simoni
- Unit of Endocrinology Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences University of Modena and Reggio Emilia Modena Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology Department of Medical Specialties Azienda Ospedaliero‐Universitaria of Modena Modena Italy
- BIOS INRA CNRS IFCE Université de Tours Nouzilly France
| | - Daniele Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences University of Modena and Reggio Emilia Modena Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology Department of Medical Specialties Azienda Ospedaliero‐Universitaria of Modena Modena Italy
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Lunenfeld B, Bilger W, Longobardi S, Alam V, D'Hooghe T, Sunkara SK. The Development of Gonadotropins for Clinical Use in the Treatment of Infertility. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:429. [PMID: 31333582 PMCID: PMC6616070 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The first commercially available gonadotropin product was a human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) extract, followed by animal pituitary gonadotropin extracts. These extracts were effective, leading to the introduction of the two-step protocol, which involved ovarian stimulation using animal gonadotropins followed by ovulation triggering using hCG. However, ovarian response to animal gonadotropins was maintained for only a short period of time due to immune recognition. This prompted the development of human pituitary gonadotropins; however, supply problems, the risk for Creutzfeld-Jakob disease, and the advent of recombinant technology eventually led to the withdrawal of human pituitary gonadotropin from the market. Urinary human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) preparations were also produced, with subsequent improvements in purification techniques enabling development of products with standardized proportions of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) activity. In 1962 the first reported pregnancy following ovulation stimulation with hMG and ovulation induction with hCG was described, and this product was later established as part of the standard protocol for ART. Improvements in immunopurification techniques enabled the removal of LH from hMG preparations; however, unidentified urinary protein contaminants remained a problem. Subsequently, monoclonal FSH antibodies were used to produce a highly purified FSH preparation containing <0.1 IU of LH activity and <5% unidentified urinary proteins, enabling the formulation of smaller injection volumes that could be administered subcutaneously rather than intramuscularly. Ongoing issues with gonadotropins derived from urine donations, including batch-to-batch variability and a finite donor supply, were overcome by the development of recombinant gonadotropin products. The first recombinant human FSH molecules received marketing approvals in 1995 (follitropin alfa) and 1996 (follitropin beta). These had superior purity and a more homogenous glycosylation pattern compared with urinary or pituitary FSH. Subsequently recombinant versions of LH and hCG have been developed, and biosimilar versions of follitropin alfa have received marketing authorization. More recent developments include a recombinant FSH produced using a human cell line, and a long-acting FSH preparation. These state of the art products are administered subcutaneously via pen injection devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Lunenfeld
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Wilma Bilger
- Medical Affairs Fertility, Endocrinology and General Medicine, Merck Serono GmbH, Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | - Veronica Alam
- Global Clinical Development, EMD Serono, Rockland, MA, United States
- A Business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Thomas D'Hooghe
- Global Medical Affairs Fertility, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
- Organ Systems, Group Biomedical Sciences, Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven (University of Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Sesh K. Sunkara
- Assisted Conception Unit, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
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11
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Guo C, Liu G, Zhao D, Mi Y, Zhang C, Li J. Interaction of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone and Stem Cell Factor to Promote Primordial Follicle Assembly in the Chicken. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:91. [PMID: 30837955 PMCID: PMC6389603 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00091] [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: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and KIT signaling are required for ovarian development. In this study the interactive effect of FSH and stem cell factor (SCF) on folliculogenesis was investigated in the chicken. Correlated changes between the FSH receptor and the expression of KIT signaling genes were seen to be involved in the formation of the chicken primordial follicles. Follicle-stimulating hormone and SCF displayed a reciprocal stimulating effect in the promotion of folliculogenesis involving elevated phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) and protein kinase B (AKT) proteins. Knockdown of c-KIT or SCF reduced the stimulatory effect of FSH on KIT signaling as well as upon MAPK and AKT phosphorylation. Treatment of FSH and SCF in combination enhanced ovarian cell proliferation and N-cadherin expression, but inhibited cell apoptosis and E-cadherin expression. Overall, the reciprocal stimulating effect of FSH and SCF in promoting chicken follicle assembly involving accelerated ovarian cell proliferation, N-cadherin expression, inhibited cell apoptosis, and E-cadherin expression is demonstrated.
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Jia X, Liu Z, Lu X, Tang J, Wu Y, Du Q, He J, Zhang X, Jiang J, Liu W, Zheng Y, Ding Y, Zhu W, Zhang H. Effects of MCLR exposure on sex hormone synthesis and reproduction-related genes expression of testis in male Rana nigromaculata. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2018; 236:12-20. [PMID: 29414332 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.01.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Revised: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Microcystin-leucine-arginine (MCLR) is the most popular and toxic variant among microcystins, which can cause severe reproductive toxicity to animals. However, the mechanisms of reproductive toxicity induced by MCLR in amphibians are still not entirely clear. In the current study, toxicity mechanisms of MCLR on the reproductive system of male Rana nigromaculata followed by low concentration (0, 0.1, 1, and 10 μg/L) and short-term (0, 7, and 14 days) MCLR exposure were shown. It was observed that MCLR could be bioaccumulated in the testes of male frogs, and the theoretical bioaccumulation factor values were 0.24 and 0.19 exposed to 1 μg/L and 10 μg/L MCLR for 14 days, respectively. MCLR exposure significantly decreased testosterone (T) concentrations and increased estradiol (E2) concentrations exposed to 1 and 10 μg/L MCLR for 14 days. The mRNA levels of HSD17B3 were downregulated, and HSD17B1 and CYP19A1 mRNA expression levels were upregulated, respectively. Only 10 μg/L MCLR group showed significant induction of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) content. Moreover, AR and ESR1 mRNA expression levels were significantly upregulated exposed to 1 and 10 μg/L MCLR for 14 days, respectively. Our results suggested that low-concentration MCLR induced transcription changes of CYP19A1, HSD17B3, and HSD17B1 led to endocrine disorders, and caused interference of spermatogenesis by the decrease of T and abnormal gene expressions of AR and ESR1 in the testes of R. nigromaculata.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuying Jia
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Zhengquan Liu
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Xiangjun Lu
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Juan Tang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Yingzhu Wu
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Qiongxia Du
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Jianbo He
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Xinyun Zhang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Jinxiao Jiang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Wenli Liu
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Yuqing Zheng
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China
| | - Ying Ding
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China; Key Laboratory of Hangzhou City for Ecosystem Protection and Restoration, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 310036, China
| | - Weiqin Zhu
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China; Key Laboratory of Hangzhou City for Ecosystem Protection and Restoration, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 310036, China
| | - Hangjun Zhang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Xuelin Road 16#, Xiasha Gaojiao Dongqu, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310036, China; Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposure and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Key Laboratory of Hangzhou City for Ecosystem Protection and Restoration, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 310036, China.
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Ben-Menahem D. Preparation, characterization and application of long-acting FSH analogs for assisted reproduction. Theriogenology 2018; 112:11-17. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Revised: 08/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Xu YW, Cao LR, Wang M, Xu Y, Wu X, Liu J, Tong C, Fan HY. Maternal DCAF2 is crucial for maintenance of genome stability during the first cell cycle in mice. J Cell Sci 2017; 130:3297-3307. [DOI: 10.1242/jcs.206664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 08/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Precise regulation of DNA replication and genome integrity is crucial for gametogenesis and early embryogenesis. Cullin ring-finger ubiquitin ligase 4 (CRL4) has multiple functions in the maintenance of germ cell survival, oocyte meiotic maturation, and maternal-zygotic transition in mammals. DDB1-cullin 4-associated factor-2 (DCAF2, also known as DTL or CDT2) is an evolutionarily conserved substrate receptor of CRL4. To determine whether DCAF2 is a key CRL4 substrate adaptor in mammalian oocytes, we generated a novel mouse strain that carries a Dcaf2 allele flanked by LoxP sequences, and specifically deleted Dcaf2 in oocytes. Dcaf2 knockout in mouse oocytes leads to female infertility. Although Dcaf2 null oocytes were able to develop and mature normally, the embryos derived from them were arrested at 1- to 2-cell stages owing to prolonged DNA replication and accumulation of massive DNA damage. These results indicate that DCAF2 is a previously unrecognized maternal factor that safeguards zygotic genome stability. Maternal DCAF2 protein is crucial for prevention of DNA rereplication in the first and unique mitotic cell cycle of the zygote.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Wen Xu
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 301158, China
| | - Lan-Rui Cao
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 301158, China
| | - Min Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ying Xu
- Cambridge-Suda Genomic Resource, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Xin Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Junping Liu
- Institute of Aging Research, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Chao Tong
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 301158, China
| | - Heng-Yu Fan
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 301158, China
- Institute of Aging Research, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China
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