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Han Y, Zhang J, Liang W, Lv Y, Luo X, Li C, Qu X, Zhang Y, Gu W, Chen X, Jin Y. Follicular fluid exosome-derived miR-339-5p enhances in vitro maturation of porcine oocytes via targeting SFPQ, a regulator of the ERK1/2 pathway. Theriogenology 2024; 225:107-118. [PMID: 38805993 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.04.022] [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: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
In this study, we aimed to investigate cytoplasmic maturation and miRNA expression of mature oocytes cultured in porcine follicular fluid exosomes. We also examined the effect of miR-339-5p on oocyte maturation. Twenty eight differentially expressed miRNAs were detected using miRNA-seq. We then transfected cumulus oocyte complexes with miR-339-5p mimics and inhibitor during culture. The results showed that exosomes increased endoplasmic reticulum levels and the amount of lipid droplets, and decreased ROS levels, lipid droplet size, and percentage of oocytes with abnormal cortical granule distribution. Overexpressing miR-339-5p significantly decreased cumulus expansion genes, oocyte maturation-related genes, target gene proline/glutamine-rich splicing factor (SFPQ), ERK1/2 phosphorylation levels, oocyte maturation rate, blastocyst rate, and lipid droplet number, but increased lipid droplet size and the ratio of oocytes with abnormal cortical granule distribution. Inhibiting miR-339-5p reversed the decrease observed during overexpression. Mitochondrial membrane potential and ROS levels did not differ significantly between groups. In summary, exosomes promote oocyte cytoplasmic maturation and miR-339-5p regulating ERK1/2 activity through SFPQ expression, thereby elevating oocyte maturation and blastocyst formation rate in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Han
- Yanbian University, Jilin, Yanji, 133000, China
| | | | | | - Yanqiu Lv
- Yanbian University, Jilin, Yanji, 133000, China
| | - Xiaotong Luo
- Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Jilin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jilin, Gongzhuling, 136100, China
| | - Chunyu Li
- Yanbian University, Jilin, Yanji, 133000, China
| | - Xinglin Qu
- Yanbian University, Jilin, Yanji, 133000, China
| | | | - Weiyu Gu
- Yanbian University, Jilin, Yanji, 133000, China
| | - Xuan Chen
- Yanbian University, Jilin, Yanji, 133000, China.
| | - Yi Jin
- Yanbian University, Jilin, Yanji, 133000, China.
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Fayezi S, Oehms S, Wolff von Gudenberg H, Ponnaiah M, Lhomme M, Strowitzki T, Germeyer A. De novo synthesis of monounsaturated fatty acids modulates exosome-mediated lipid export from human granulosa cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024:112317. [PMID: 38901632 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2024.112317] [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: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ovarian somatic cells support the maturation and fertility of oocytes. Metabolic desaturation of fatty acids in these cells has a positive paracrine impact on the maturation of oocytes. We hypothesized that the enzyme stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1) in granulosa cells regulates the lipid cargo of exosomes secreted from these cells by maintaining the balance between saturated and unsaturated lipids. We investigated the effect of SCD1 on exosome lipid content in a cumulus-granulosa cell model under physiologically relevant in vitro conditions. METHODS Non-luteinized human COV434 granulosa cells were subjected to treatment with an inhibitor of SCD1 (SCDinhib) alone, in combination with oleic acid, or under control conditions. Subsequently, the exosomes were isolated and characterized via nanoparticle tracking analysis, transmission electron microscopy, and Western blotting. We used liquid chromatography mass spectrometry to investigate the lipidomic profiles. We used quantitative PCR with TaqMan primers to assess the expression of genes involved in lipogenesis and control of cell cycle progression. RESULTS A trend toward exosome production was observed with a shift toward smaller exosome sizes in cells treated with SCD1inhib. This trend reached statistical significance when SCDinhib was combined with oleic acid supplementation. SCD1 inhibition led to the accumulation of saturated omega-6 lipids in exosomes. The latter effect was reversed by oleic acid supplementation, which also improved exosome production and suppressed the expression of fatty acid synthase and Cyclin D2. CONCLUSION These findings underscore the critical role of de novo fatty acid desaturation in the regulation of the export of specific lipids through exosomes, with potential implications for controlling intercellular communication within the ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shabnam Fayezi
- Department of Gynecologic Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Women's Hospital, Ruprecht-Karls University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120 Germany.
| | - Sophie Oehms
- Department of Gynecologic Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Women's Hospital, Ruprecht-Karls University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120 Germany.
| | - Helena Wolff von Gudenberg
- Department of Gynecologic Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Women's Hospital, Ruprecht-Karls University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120 Germany.
| | - Maharajah Ponnaiah
- Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (IHU ICAN), ICAN omics-lipidomics (ML), Paris, 75013 France.
| | - Marie Lhomme
- Cardiometabolism and Nutrition (IHU ICAN), ICAN omics-lipidomics (ML), Paris, 75013 France.
| | - Thomas Strowitzki
- Department of Gynecologic Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Women's Hospital, Ruprecht-Karls University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120 Germany.
| | - Ariane Germeyer
- Department of Gynecologic Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Women's Hospital, Ruprecht-Karls University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, 69120 Germany.
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Guo X, Fang Y, Liang R, Wang X, Zhang J, Dong C, Wang B, Liu Y, Chu M, Zhang X, Zhong R. Single-cell RNA-seq reveals the effects of the FecB mutation on the transcriptome profile in ovine cumulus cells. Sci Rep 2024; 14:13087. [PMID: 38849498 PMCID: PMC11161497 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64001-y] [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: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Genetic variations in the ovine ovulation rate, which are associated with the FecB mutation, provide useful models by which to explore the mechanisms regulating the development of mammalian antral follicles. In order to study the effects of the FecB mutation on cumulus cell differentiation, preovulatory follicles were aspirated and cumulus cells were isolated from three FecB genotypes (homozygous, heterozygous and wild type) of Small Tail Han (STH) sheep superstimulated with FSH. Transcriptome information from tens of thousands of cumulus cells was determined with the 10 × Genomics single-cell RNA-seq technology. Under the superovulation treatment, the observed number of preovulatory follicles in the ovaries of FecB carriers was still significantly higher than that in the wild-type (P < 0.05). The expression patterns of cumulus cells differed between FecB carriers and wild-type ewes. The screened cumulus cells could also be further divided into different cell clusters, and the differentiation states and fates of each group of cumulus cells also remained different, which supports the notion that heterogeneity in gene expression is prevalent in single cells. The oxidative phosphorylation pathway was significantly enriched in differentially expressed genes among the cell differentiation branch nodes of cumulus cells and among the differentially expressed genes of cumulus cells from the three genotypes. Combined with the important role of oxidative phosphorylation in the maturation of COCs, we suggest that the oxidative phosphorylation pathway of cumulus cells plays a crucial role in the differentiation process of cumulus cells and the mutation effect of the FecB gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofei Guo
- Jilin Province Feed Processing and Ruminant Precision Breeding Cross Regional Cooperation Technology Innovation Center, Jilin Provincial Laboratory of Grassland Farming, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130102, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Breeding and Biotechnology, Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Animal Healthy Farming, Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary, Tianjin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Tianjin, 300381, China
| | - Yi Fang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Production, Product Quality and Security, Ministry of Education, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, 130118, China
| | - Rong Liang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Production, Product Quality and Security, Ministry of Education, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, 130118, China
| | - Xiangyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jinlong Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Breeding and Biotechnology, Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Animal Healthy Farming, Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary, Tianjin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Tianjin, 300381, China
| | - Chunxiao Dong
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Breeding and Biotechnology, Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Animal Healthy Farming, Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary, Tianjin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Tianjin, 300381, China
| | - Biao Wang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Breeding and Biotechnology, Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Animal Healthy Farming, Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary, Tianjin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Tianjin, 300381, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Breeding and Biotechnology, Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Animal Healthy Farming, Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary, Tianjin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Tianjin, 300381, China
| | - Mingxing Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing, 100193, China.
| | - Xiaoshen Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Animal Molecular Breeding and Biotechnology, Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Animal Healthy Farming, Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary, Tianjin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Tianjin, 300381, China.
| | - Rongzhen Zhong
- Jilin Province Feed Processing and Ruminant Precision Breeding Cross Regional Cooperation Technology Innovation Center, Jilin Provincial Laboratory of Grassland Farming, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130102, China.
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Park JK, Jeon Y, Bang S, Kim JW, Kwak IP, Lee WS. Time-lapse imaging of morula compaction for selecting high-quality blastocysts: a retrospective cohort study. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2024; 309:2897-2906. [PMID: 38649499 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-024-07461-x] [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: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Before blastocyst development, embryos undergo morphological and metabolic changes crucial for their subsequent growth. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between morula compaction and blastocyst formation and the subsequent chromosomal status of the embryos. METHODS This retrospective cohort study evaluated embryo development (n = 371) using time-lapse imaging; 94 blastocysts underwent preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A). RESULTS The embryos were classified as fully (Group 1, n = 194) or partially (Group 2, n = 177) compacted. Group 1 had significantly higher proportions of good- and average-quality blastocysts than Group 2 (21.6% vs. 3.4%, p = 0.001; 47.9% vs. 26.6%, p = 0.001, respectively). The time from the morula stage to the beginning and completion of compaction and blastocyst formation was significantly shorter in Group 1 than in Group 2 (78.6 vs. 82.4 h, p = 0.001; 87.0 vs. 92.2 h, p = 0.001; 100.2 vs. 103.7 h, p = 0.017, respectively). Group 1 embryos had larger surface areas than Group 2 embryos at various time points following blastocyst formation. Group 1 blastocysts had significantly higher average expansion rates than Group 2 blastocysts (653.6 vs. 499.2 μm2/h, p = 0.001). PGT-A revealed a higher proportion of euploid embryos in Group 1 than in Group 2 (47.2% vs. 36.6%, p = 0.303). CONCLUSION Time-lapse microscopy uncovered a positive relationship between compaction and blastocyst quality and its association with embryo ploidy. Hence, compaction evaluation should be prioritized before blastocyst selection for transfer or cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Kyun Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, 566 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06135, Korea
| | - Yunmi Jeon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, 566 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06135, Korea
| | - Soyoung Bang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, 566 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06135, Korea
| | - Ji Won Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, 566 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06135, Korea.
| | - In Pyung Kwak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, 566 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06135, Korea
| | - Woo Sik Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fertility Center of CHA Gangnam Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, 566 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06135, Korea.
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Xu R, Wen D, Yin L, Tang Y, Lu S, Gao Y, Pan MH, Han B, Ma B. Estrogen influences the transzonal projection assembly of cumulus-oocyte complexes through G protein-coupled estrogen receptor during goat follicle development. Mol Reprod Dev 2024; 91:e23763. [PMID: 38895803 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23763] [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: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Estrogen is an important hormone that plays a role in regulating follicle development and oocyte maturation. Transzonal projections (TZPs) act as communication bridges between follicle somatic cells and oocytes, and their dynamic changes are critical for oocyte development and maturation. However, the roles and mechanisms of estrogen in regulating TZPs during follicular development are not yet understood. We found that the proportion of oocytes spontaneously resuming meiosis increases as the follicle grows, which is accompanied by rising estrogen levels in follicles and decreasing TZPs in cumulus-oocyte complex. To further explore the effect of elevated estrogen levels on TZP assembly, additional estrogen was added to the culture system. The increased estrogen level significantly decreased the mRNA and protein expression levels of TZP assembly-related genes. Subsequent research revealed that TZP regulation by estrogen was mediated by the membrane receptor GPER and downstream ERK1/2 signaling pathway. In summary, our study suggests that estrogen may regulate goat oocyte meiosis arrest by decreasing TZP numbers via estrogen-mediated GPER activation during follicle development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University/Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, China
| | - Dongxu Wen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University/Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, China
| | - Lu Yin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University/Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, China
| | - Yaju Tang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University/Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, China
| | - Sihai Lu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University/Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, China
| | - Yan Gao
- Yulin Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Service Center, Yulin, China
| | - Meng-Hao Pan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University/Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, China
| | - Bin Han
- Yulin Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Service Center, Yulin, China
| | - Baohua Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University/Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, China
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Ho VNA, Ho TM, Vuong LN, García-Velasco J. An update on the current indications for in vitro maturation. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2024; 36:173-180. [PMID: 38295060 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW In vitro maturation has become a significant component of modern assisted reproductive techniques. Published data have been supported for the safety and effectiveness of in vitro maturation treatment. In recent years, potential indications for in vitro maturation (IVM) have been a topic of interest and investigation. RECENT FINDINGS Significant improvements in technique enhancement and data publication for evaluating the efficacy of IVM have been achieved. Recent studies have shown that IVM could offer several advantages over in vitro fertilization. Currently, there are growing indications for IVM beyond the commonly mentioned indication of infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Additionally, some potential candidates might have significant advantages for IVM, such as women diagnosed with gonadotropin resistance ovary syndrome or those seeking fertility preservation. With a better understanding of IVM, from basic science to clinical practice, it can be applied safely, effectively, and affordably to a broader range of patients, making it a more accessible and patient-friendly option. SUMMARY Despite the possibly acknowledged limitations, the potential of in vitro maturation cannot be denied. As this technique becomes increasingly accessible to patients and more continuous efforts are dedicated to advancing this technique, the impact of in vitro maturation is expected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vu N-A Ho
- IVFMD and HOPE research center, My Duc Hospital
| | - Tuong M Ho
- IVFMD and HOPE research center, My Duc Hospital
| | - Lan N Vuong
- IVFMD and HOPE research center, My Duc Hospital
- Department of obstetrics and gynecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Juan García-Velasco
- IVIRMA Global and IVI Madrid, Madrid
- IVI Foundation, IIS La Fe, Valencia
- Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain
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Granados-Aparici S, Yang Q, Clarke HJ. SMAD4 promotes somatic-germline contact during murine oocyte growth. eLife 2024; 13:RP91798. [PMID: 38819913 PMCID: PMC11142639 DOI: 10.7554/elife.91798] [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] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Development of the mammalian oocyte requires physical contact with the surrounding granulosa cells of the follicle, which provide it with essential nutrients and regulatory signals. This contact is achieved through specialized filopodia, termed transzonal projections (TZPs), that extend from the granulosa cells to the oocyte surface. Transforming growth factor (TGFβ) family ligands produced by the oocyte increase the number of TZPs, but how they do so is unknown. Using an inducible Cre recombinase strategy together with expression of green fluorescent protein to verify Cre activity in individual cells, we examined the effect of depleting the canonical TGFβ mediator, SMAD4, in mouse granulosa cells. We observed a 20-50% decrease in the total number of TZPs in SMAD4-depleted granulosa cell-oocyte complexes, and a 50% decrease in the number of newly generated TZPs when the granulosa cells were reaggregated with wild-type oocytes. Three-dimensional image analysis revealed that TZPs of SMAD4-depleted cells were longer than controls and more frequently oriented towards the oocyte. Strikingly, the transmembrane proteins, N-cadherin and Notch2, were reduced by 50% in SMAD4-depleted cells. SMAD4 may thus modulate a network of cell adhesion proteins that stabilize the attachment of TZPs to the oocyte, thereby amplifying signalling between the two cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Granados-Aparici
- Research Institute, McGill University Health CentreMontrealCanada
- Present address: Cancer CIBER (CIBERONC)MadridSpain
- Present address: Pathology Department, Medical School, University of Valencia-INCLIVAValenciaSpain
| | - Qin Yang
- Research Institute, McGill University Health CentreMontrealCanada
| | - Hugh J Clarke
- Research Institute, McGill University Health CentreMontrealCanada
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Biology, Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill UniversityMontréalCanada
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Bao S, Yin T, Liu S. Ovarian aging: energy metabolism of oocytes. J Ovarian Res 2024; 17:118. [PMID: 38822408 PMCID: PMC11141068 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-024-01427-y] [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: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024] Open
Abstract
In women who are getting older, the quantity and quality of their follicles or oocytes and decline. This is characterized by decreased ovarian reserve function (DOR), fewer remaining oocytes, and lower quality oocytes. As more women choose to delay childbirth, the decline in fertility associated with age has become a significant concern for modern women. The decline in oocyte quality is a key indicator of ovarian aging. Many studies suggest that age-related changes in oocyte energy metabolism may impact oocyte quality. Changes in oocyte energy metabolism affect adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) production, but how related products and proteins influence oocyte quality remains largely unknown. This review focuses on oocyte metabolism in age-related ovarian aging and its potential impact on oocyte quality, as well as therapeutic strategies that may partially influence oocyte metabolism. This research aims to enhance our understanding of age-related changes in oocyte energy metabolism, and the identification of biomarkers and treatment methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenglan Bao
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Tailang Yin
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
| | - Su Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Reproductive Immunology for Peri-Implantation, , Shenzhen Zhongshan Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Shenzhen Zhongshan Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital (Formerly Shenzhen Zhongshan Urology Hospital), Shenzhen, China.
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Del Bianco D, Gentile R, Sallicandro L, Biagini A, Quellari PT, Gliozheni E, Sabbatini P, Ragonese F, Malvasi A, D’Amato A, Baldini GM, Trojano G, Tinelli A, Fioretti B. Electro-Metabolic Coupling of Cumulus-Oocyte Complex. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5349. [PMID: 38791387 PMCID: PMC11120766 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105349] [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: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Oocyte-cumulus cell interaction is essential for oocyte maturation and competence. The bidirectional crosstalk network mediated by gap junctions is fundamental for the metabolic cooperation between these cells. As cumulus cells exhibit a more glycolytic phenotype, they can provide metabolic substrates that the oocyte can use to produce ATP via oxidative phosphorylation. The impairment of mitochondrial activity plays a crucial role in ovarian aging and, thus, in fertility, determining the success or failure of assisted reproductive techniques. This review aims to deepen the knowledge about the electro-metabolic coupling of the cumulus-oocyte complex and to hypothesize a putative role of potassium channel modulators in order to improve fertility, promote intracellular Ca2+ influx, and increase the mitochondrial biogenesis and resulting ATP levels in cumulus cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diletta Del Bianco
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
| | - Rosaria Gentile
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Laboratorio Interdipartimentale di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Edificio C, Piano 3 P.zza Lucio Severi, 1, Sant’Andrea delle Fratte, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Luana Sallicandro
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia Medical School, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Andrea Biagini
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia Medical School, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Paola Tiziana Quellari
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia Medical School, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy
- ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, 20162 Milano, Italy
| | - Elko Gliozheni
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Perugia Medical School, University of Perugia, Piazza Lucio Severi 1, 06132 Perugia, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tirana, AL1005 Tirana, Albania
| | - Paola Sabbatini
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
| | - Francesco Ragonese
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Laboratorio Interdipartimentale di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Edificio C, Piano 3 P.zza Lucio Severi, 1, Sant’Andrea delle Fratte, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Antonio Malvasi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | - Antonio D’Amato
- 1st Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | | | - Giuseppe Trojano
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, “Madonna delle Grazie” Hospital ASM, 75100 Matera, Italy;
| | - Andrea Tinelli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and CERICSAL (CEntro di RIcerca Clinico SALentino), Veris delli Ponti Hospital, Via Giuseppina delli Ponti, 73020 Scorrano, Lecce, Italy
| | - Bernard Fioretti
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnologies, University of Perugia, Via dell’Elce di Sotto 8, 06132 Perugia, Italy; (D.D.B.); (R.G.); (L.S.); (A.B.); (P.T.Q.); (E.G.); (P.S.); (F.R.)
- Laboratorio Interdipartimentale di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Edificio C, Piano 3 P.zza Lucio Severi, 1, Sant’Andrea delle Fratte, 06132 Perugia, Italy
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Ma RJ, Zhang M, Wu JS, Wang ZP, Wang GL, He N, Luo MJ, Tan JH. Role of miRNAs in glucose metabolism of mouse cumulus cells†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:895-907. [PMID: 38267362 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae013] [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: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
It is known that the oocyte has a limited capacity to acquire and metabolize glucose, and it must rely on cumulus cells (CCs) to take up glucose and produce pyruvate for use to produce ATP through oxidative phosphorylation. We therefore propose that miRNAs might regulate glucose metabolism (GM) in CCs and might be used as markers for oocyte quality assessment. Here, mouse CC models with impaired glycolysis or pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) were established, and miRNAs targeting the key enzymes in glycolysis/PPP were predicted using the miRNA target prediction databases. Expression of the predicted miRNAs was compared between CCs with normal and impaired glycolysis/PPP to identify candidate miRNAs. Function of the candidate miRNAs was validated by transfecting CCs or cumulus-oocyte-complexes (COCs) with miRNA inhibitors and observing effects on glucose metabolites of CCs and on competence of oocytes. The results validated that miR-23b-3p, let-7b-5p, 34b-5p and 145a-5p inhibited glycolysis, and miR-24-3p, 3078-3p,183-5p and 7001-5p inhibited PPP of CCs. Our observation using a more physiologically relevant model (intact cultured COCs) further validated the four glycolysis-targeting miRNAs we identified. Furthermore, miR-let-7b-5p, 34b-5p and 145a-5p may also inhibit PPP, as they decreased the production of glucose-6-phosphate. In conclusion, miRNAs play critical roles in GM of CCs and may be used as markers for oocyte quality assessment. Summary sentence: We identified and validated eight new miRNAs that inhibit glycolysis and/or pentose phosphate pathways in cumulus cells (CCs) suggesting that miRNAs play critical roles in glucose metabolism of CCs and may be used for oocyte quality markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui-Jie Ma
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City 271018, P. R. China
| | - Min Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City 271018, P. R. China
| | - Jia-Shun Wu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City 271018, P. R. China
| | - Zhi-Peng Wang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City 271018, P. R. China
| | - Guo-Liang Wang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City 271018, P. R. China
| | - Nan He
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City 271018, P. R. China
| | - Ming-Jiu Luo
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City 271018, P. R. China
| | - Jing-He Tan
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an City 271018, P. R. China
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Jitngamsujarit S, Salang L, Saengboonmee C, Sorin S, Thithuan K, Pongsritasana T, Sukkasame S. Advancing Age May Decrease Mitochondrial Activity in Cumulus Cells. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2800. [PMID: 38792342 PMCID: PMC11122456 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13102800] [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: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: The goal of this study was to compare mitochondrial activity in cumulus cells (CCs) between young and advancing-aged women, the factors that affect mitochondrial activity, and their association with blastocyst quality. Materials and methods: This prospective study included 80 infertile women who underwent ICSI between May and October 2023. Participants were divided into two groups: older and younger than 38. The oocyte mitochondrial activity from CCs was evaluated using MitoTracker, and the mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) was also evaluated. Results: The univariate and multivariate analyses revealed a significant difference in the MFI between the woman ≥ 38 age group and the lower age group (162.68 ± 79.87 vs. 228.39 ± 121.38; p-value = 0.005; 95%CI 19.97, 111.45). The factors that affected the MFI were women ≥ 38 years of age (p-value = 0.005; 95%CI -111.45, -19.91), total gonadotropin dosages (p-value = 0.006; 95%CI -0.08, 0.01), and gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) triggering (p-value = 0.006; 95%CI 36.46, 210.06). However, only women aged ≥38 years remained statistically significant after a multivariable regression analysis (p-value = 0.014; 95%CI -121.00, -14.30). In addition, only male age (mean age ± SD = 38.26 ± 5.13) was associated with high blastocyst quality in univariate and mixed multivariate analyses (OR 0.91; 95%CI 0.56, 3.04). The chemical pregnancy rate was not significantly different between the two age groups (34.5% vs. 56.7%; p-value = 0.162; 95%CI 0.2, 1.30). Conclusion: Advancing age decreased mitochondrial activity in CCs but did not affect blastocyst quality. By contrast, male age may be a predictor of high-grade blastocyst quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suwichaya Jitngamsujarit
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (S.J.); (T.P.); (S.S.)
| | - Lingling Salang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (S.J.); (T.P.); (S.S.)
| | - Charupong Saengboonmee
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (C.S.); (S.S.); (K.T.)
| | - Supannika Sorin
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (C.S.); (S.S.); (K.T.)
| | - Kanyarat Thithuan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (C.S.); (S.S.); (K.T.)
| | - Thanida Pongsritasana
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (S.J.); (T.P.); (S.S.)
| | - Sineenart Sukkasame
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (S.J.); (T.P.); (S.S.)
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12
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Chu Y, Li Q, He Y, Li H, Wang Q, Li S, Wang J, Wang W, Ju S. Exposure to chlorpyrifos interferes with intercellular communication in cumulus-oocyte complexes during porcine oocyte maturation. Food Chem Toxicol 2024; 187:114629. [PMID: 38565334 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2024.114629] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Chlorpyrifos (CPF), a widely used organophosphorus pesticide (OP) to control pests has been verified reproductive toxicity on mammalian oocytes. However, limited information exists on its correlation with the dysfunction of the intercellular communication in cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs). Herein, our study utilized porcine COCs as models to directly address the latent impact of CPF on the communication between cumulus cells (CCs) and oocytes during in vitro maturation. The results demonstrated that CPF exposure decreased the rate of the first polar body (PB1) extrusion and blocked meiosis progression. Notably, the cumulus expansion of CPF-exposed COCs was suppressed significantly, accompanied by the down-regulated mRNA levels of cumulus expansion-related genes. Furthermore, the early apoptotic level was raised and the expression of BAX/BCL2 and cleaved caspase 3 was up-regulated in the CCs of CPF-exposed COCs (p < 0.05). Moreover, CPF exposure impaired mRNA levels of antioxidant enzyme-related genes, induced higher levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reduced the levels of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) in CCs (p < 0.05). Additionally, the integrated optical density (IOD) rate (cumulus/oocyte) of calcein and the expression of connexin 43 (CX43) was increased in CPF treatment groups (p < 0.05). As well, CPF exposure reduced the expression levels of FSCN1, DAAM1 and MYO10, which resulted in a significant decrease in the number and fluorescence intensity of transzonal projections (TZPs). In conclusion, CPF inhibited the expansion of cumulus and caused oxidative stress and apoptosis as well as disturbed the function of gap junctions (GJs) and TZPs, which eventually resulted in the failure of oocyte maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajie Chu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, China
| | - Qiao Li
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, China
| | - Yijing He
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, China
| | - Heran Li
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, China
| | - Qijia Wang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, China
| | - Shurui Li
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, China
| | - Jianuo Wang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, China
| | - Weihan Wang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, China
| | - Shiqiang Ju
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, China.
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13
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Ma C, Xu Y, Chen H, Huang Y, Wang S, Zhang P, Li G, Xu Z, Xu X, Ding Z, Xiang H, Cao Y. Bisphenol Z exposure inhibits oocyte meiotic maturation by rupturing mitochondrial function. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 276:116312. [PMID: 38608383 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
The use of bisphenol A (BPA) has been restricted due to its endocrine-disrupting effects. As a widely used alternative to BPA today, environmental levels of bisphenol Z (BPZ) continue to rise and accumulate in humans. Oocyte quality is critical for a successful pregnancy. Nevertheless, the toxic impacts of BPZ on the maturation of mammalian oocytes remain unexplored. Therefore, the impacts of BPZ and BPA on oocyte meiotic maturation were compared in an in vitro mouse oocyte culture model. Exposure to 150 μM of both BPZ and BPA disrupted the assembly of the meiotic spindle and the alignment of chromosomes, and BPZ exerted stronger toxicological effects than BPA. Furthermore, BPZ resulted in aberrant expression of F-actin, preventing the formation of the actin cap. Mechanistically, BPZ exposure disrupted the mitochondrial localization pattern, reduced mitochondrial membrane potential and ATP content, leading to impaired mitochondrial function. Further studies revealed that BPZ exposure resulted in oxidative stress and altered expression of genes associated with anti-oxidative stress. Moreover, BPZ induced severe DNA damage and triggered early apoptosis in oocytes, accompanied by impaired lysosomal function. Overall, the data in this study suggest that BPZ is not a safe alternative to BPA. BPZ can trigger early apoptosis by affecting mitochondrial function and causing oxidative stress and DNA damage in oocytes. These processes disrupt cytoskeletal assembly, arrest the cell cycle, and ultimately inhibit oocyte meiotic maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Ma
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No.218 Jixi Road, Hefei 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, No.81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No.81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No.218 Jixi Road, Hefei 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, No.81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No.81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Huilei Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No.218 Jixi Road, Hefei 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, No.81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No.81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yue Huang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No.218 Jixi Road, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Shanshan Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No.218 Jixi Road, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Pin Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No.218 Jixi Road, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Guojing Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No.218 Jixi Road, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Zuying Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No.218 Jixi Road, Hefei 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, No.81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No.81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xiaofeng Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No.218 Jixi Road, Hefei 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, No.81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No.81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Zhiming Ding
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, No.81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No.81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China.
| | - Huifen Xiang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No.218 Jixi Road, Hefei 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, No.81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No.81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China.
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No.218 Jixi Road, Hefei 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, No.81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No.81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China; Engineering Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Ministry of Education, No.81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, No.81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China; Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Anhui Medical University, No.81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China; Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, No.81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, China.
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14
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Duan Y, Cai B, Guo J, Wang C, Mai Q, Xu Y, Zeng Y, Shi Y, Wang B, Ding C, Chen M, Zhou C, Xu Y. GDF9 His209GlnfsTer6/S428T and GDF9 Q321X/S428T bi-allelic variants caused female subfertility with defective follicle enlargement. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:235. [PMID: 38643161 PMCID: PMC11031944 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01616-8] [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: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antral follicles consist of an oocyte cumulus complex surrounding by somatic cells, including mural granulosa cells as the inner layer and theca cells as the outsider layer. The communications between oocytes and granulosa cells have been extensively explored in in vitro studies, however, the role of oocyte-derived factor GDF9 on in vivo antral follicle development remains elusive due to lack of an appropriate animal model. Clinically, the phenotype of GDF9 variants needs to be determined. METHODS Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed on two unrelated infertile women characterized by an early rise of estradiol level and defect in follicle enlargement. Besides, WES data on 1,039 women undergoing ART treatment were collected. A Gdf9Q308X/S415T mouse model was generated based on the variant found in one of the patients. RESULTS Two probands with bi-allelic GDF9 variants (GDF9His209GlnfsTer6/S428T, GDF9Q321X/S428T) and eight GDF9S428T heterozygotes with normal ovarian response were identified. In vitro experiments confirmed that these variants caused reduction of GDF9 secretion, and/or alleviation in BMP15 binding. Gdf9Q308X/S415T mouse model was constructed, which recapitulated the phenotypes in probands with abnormal estrogen secretion and defected follicle enlargement. Further experiments in mouse model showed an earlier expression of STAR in small antral follicles and decreased proliferative capacity in large antral follicles. In addition, RNA sequencing of granulosa cells revealed the transcriptomic profiles related to defective follicle enlargement in the Gdf9Q308X/S415T group. One of the downregulated genes, P4HA2 (a collagen related gene), was found to be stimulated by GDF9 protein, which partly explained the phenotype of defective follicle enlargement. CONCLUSIONS GDF9 bi-allelic variants contributed to the defect in antral follicle development. Oocyte itself participated in the regulation of follicle development through GDF9 paracrine effect, highlighting the essential role of oocyte-derived factors on ovarian response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwei Duan
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Bing Cai
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Jing Guo
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Qingyun Mai
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Yan Xu
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Yang Zeng
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Yue Shi
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Boyan Wang
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Chenhui Ding
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Minghui Chen
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Canquan Zhou
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China
| | - Yanwen Xu
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China.
- Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for obstetrical and gynecological diseases, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China.
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15
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Fang X, Xia W, Qi Y, Yu Y, Sun Q, Zhang D, Zhou Z, Qin T, Tao C, Li J. SIRT2 regulates apoptosis by inducing mitophagy in sheep cumulus cells. Theriogenology 2024; 218:163-173. [PMID: 38330860 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.02.004] [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: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Cumulus cells surrounding oocytes furnish nutritional support crucial for oocyte maturation in vitro, and thereby enhance oocyte quality significantly. Our previous studies affirmed the role of SIRT2 in regulation of mitochondrial function in sheep granulosa cells. However, the effect of SIRT2 action on mitophagy in these cells remain unclear. Here, RNA-seq was used to scrutinize pathways where differentially expressed genes (DEGs) are enriched following SIRT2 knockdown in cumulus cells. Prior to SIRT2 knock down, cumulus cells were treated with the mitophagy inhibitor Mdivi-1. Potential mechanisms by which SIRT2 affects apoptosis via mitophagy were explored. Results indicated that DEGs after SIRT2 knockdown were enriched in various pathways including mitochondria, mitophagy, and apoptosis. The expression levels of CASP3/CASP9 were significantly increased after mitophagy activation (P < 0.01), whereas inhibition of mitophagy had no effect on apoptosis (P > 0.05). Pretreatment of cumulus cells with Mdivi-1 prior to SIRT2 knockdown significantly reduced the expression of mitophagy-related genes, the number of autolysosomes, the expression of CASP3/CASP9, and the levels of Ca2+ and cytochrome C (P < 0.05). In addition, an improvement in mitochondrial morphology and increases in ATP levels and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy numbers were observed. Interestingly, double knockdown of SIRT2 and MAPK15 was found to reverse increased mitophagy and apoptosis activity caused by SIRT2 knockdown. Our findings indicate that SIRT2 modulate apoptosis in cumulus cells by regulating mitophagy, with MAPK15 likely playing a pivotal role in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohuan Fang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, 071000, PR China
| | - Wei Xia
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, 071000, PR China; Hebei Technology Innovation Center of Cattle and Sheep Embryo, Baoding, 071000, PR China
| | - Yatian Qi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, 071000, PR China
| | - Yang Yu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, 071000, PR China
| | - Qingyi Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, 071000, PR China
| | - Di Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, 071000, PR China
| | - Zhenmin Zhou
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, 071000, PR China
| | - Tianmiao Qin
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, 071000, PR China
| | - Chenyu Tao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, 071000, PR China
| | - Junjie Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, 071000, PR China; Hebei Technology Innovation Center of Cattle and Sheep Embryo, Baoding, 071000, PR China.
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16
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Catandi GD, Fresa KJ, Cheng MH, Whitcomb LA, Broeckling CD, Chen TW, Chicco AJ, Carnevale EM. Follicular metabolic alterations are associated with obesity in mares and can be mitigated by dietary supplementation. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7571. [PMID: 38555310 PMCID: PMC10981747 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58323-0] [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: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a growing concern in human and equine populations, predisposing to metabolic pathologies and reproductive disturbances. Cellular lipid accumulation and mitochondrial dysfunction play an important role in the pathologic consequences of obesity, which may be mitigated by dietary interventions targeting these processes. We hypothesized that obesity in the mare promotes follicular lipid accumulation and altered mitochondrial function of oocytes and granulosa cells, potentially contributing to impaired fertility in this population. We also predicted that these effects could be mitigated by dietary supplementation with a combination of targeted nutrients to improve follicular cell metabolism. Twenty mares were grouped as: Normal Weight [NW, n = 6, body condition score (BCS) 5.7 ± 0.3], Obese (OB, n = 7, BCS 7.7 ± 0.2), and Obese Diet Supplemented (OBD, n = 7, BCS 7.7 ± 0.2), and fed specific feed regimens for ≥ 6 weeks before sampling. Granulosa cells, follicular fluid, and cumulus-oocyte complexes were collected from follicles ≥ 35 mm during estrus and after induction of maturation. Obesity promoted several mitochondrial metabolic disturbances in granulosa cells, reduced L-carnitine availability in the follicle, promoted lipid accumulation in cumulus cells and oocytes, and increased basal oocyte metabolism. Diet supplementation of a complex nutrient mixture mitigated most of the metabolic changes in the follicles of obese mares, resulting in parameters similar to NW mares. In conclusion, obesity disturbs the equine ovarian follicle by promoting lipid accumulation and altering mitochondrial function. These effects may be partially mitigated with targeted nutritional intervention, thereby potentially improving fertility outcomes in the obese female.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovana D Catandi
- Equine Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, 3101 Rampart Road, Fort Collins, CO, 80521, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, 74078, USA
| | - Kyle J Fresa
- Equine Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, 3101 Rampart Road, Fort Collins, CO, 80521, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
| | - Ming-Hao Cheng
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
| | - Luke A Whitcomb
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
| | - Corey D Broeckling
- Proteomics and Metabolomics Facility, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
| | - Thomas W Chen
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
| | - Adam J Chicco
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
| | - Elaine M Carnevale
- Equine Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, 3101 Rampart Road, Fort Collins, CO, 80521, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA.
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17
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Wang L, Liu Y, Song Y, Mei Q, Mou H, Wu J, Tang X, Ai J, Li K, Xiao H, Han X, Lv L, Li H, Zhang L, Xiang W. Enhancing Oocyte Quality in Aging Mice: Insights from Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy and FOXO3a Signaling Pathway Activation. Reprod Sci 2024:10.1007/s43032-024-01509-8. [PMID: 38532230 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01509-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Ovarian aging reduced the quality of oocytes, resulting in age-related female infertility. It is reported that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) therapy can improve age-related ovarian function decline and the success rate of in vitro maturation (IVM) in assisted reproductive therapy. In order to investigate the effectiveness and mechanisms of MSCs to enhance oocyte quality of cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) in advanced age, this study focus on the respective functional improvement of oocytes and granulosa cells (GCs) from aging mice and further to explore and verify the possible mechanisms. Here, we studied a popular but significant protein of follicular development, Forkhead box O-3a (FOXO3a), which is a transcription factor that mediates a variety of cellular processes, but the functions of which in regulating oocyte quality in MSCs therapy still remain inconclusive. In this study, the RNA-seq data of metaphase II (MII) oocytes and GCs isolated from COCs confirmed that, GCs of immature follicles show the most potential to be the targeted cells of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) by FOXO3a signaling pathway. Furthermore, we demonstrated the effectiveness of BMSCs co-culture with aging COCs to enhance oocyte quality and found its mechanism to function via ameliorating the biological function of GCs by alleviating FOXO3a levels. These results provide significant fundamental research on MSCs therapy on ovarian aging, as well as offering guidance for raising the success rate of assisted reproductive technology such IVM in clinical and non-clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingjuan Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Reproductive Center, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yinhua Song
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiaojuan Mei
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hongbei Mou
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiachen Wu
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinyu Tang
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jihui Ai
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kezhen Li
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Houxiu Xiao
- Wuhan National High Magnetic Field Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaotao Han
- Wuhan National High Magnetic Field Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Liqun Lv
- Wuhan Kangjian Maternal and Infant Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Huaibiao Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Wenpei Xiang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
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18
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Kussano NR, Franco MM, Dode MAN. Biochemical profiling of the follicular environment to predict oocyte competence in cattle. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298316. [PMID: 38466703 PMCID: PMC10927144 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298316] [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: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
To identify markers of oocyte competence, we compared the biochemical characteristics of fluid and cells from follicles containing oocytes with different capacities to form an embryo. Follicles (5-6 mm) were dissected, and follicular fluid (FF), granulosa cells (GC), cumulus cells (CC) from immature and mature cumulus-oocyte-complexes (COC) were individually collected. The oocytes were matured, fertilized, and cultured individually until day 8 (D8) of development. On D8, the samples were grouped according to embryo production into those that gave rise to blastocysts (EMB) and those that did not reach the blastocyst stage (NEMB). In CCs from immature and mature COCs and GCs, expression of CASP3, SERPINE2, VCAN, LUM, FSHR, EGFR, PGR, and GHR genes was quantified. Cell-free DNA (cfDNA), progesterone, and estradiol concentrations in the FF were determined. Data were analyzed by Mann-Whitney U test (GraphPad Prism 9). GHR was highly expressed in immature CCs from the EMB group, whereas CASP3 was highly expressed in mature CCs from the NEMB group (P<0.05). During maturation, the expression of CASP3 and GHR genes increased only in the NEMB group. ART2 cfDNA was highly detected in FF of the NEMB compared to the EMB group. Progesterone concentration was similar between the groups, whereas estradiol concentration was higher (P<0.05) in the EMB than in the NEMB group. It was concluded that a higher level of GHR transcripts in immature CCs, lower CASP3 expression in CCs from matured COCs, lower levels of ART2, and higher estradiol concentrations in FF may indicate oocytes with greater potential for development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mauricio Machaim Franco
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília-DF, Brazil
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Institute of Biotechnology, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Margot Alves Nunes Dode
- Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasília-DF, Brazil
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília-DF, Brazil
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19
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Bartková AR, Němcová L, Kinterová V, Radová D, Strejček F, Toralová T, Laurinčík J, Procházka R. Meiotic and developmental competence of growing pig oocytes derived from small antral follicles is enhanced in culture medium containing FGF2, LIF, and IGF1 (FLI medium). J Ovarian Res 2024; 17:54. [PMID: 38431654 PMCID: PMC10908066 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-024-01360-0] [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: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oocytes of large animal species isolated from small ovarian follicles (< 2 mm) are less competent to support early embryonic development after in vitro maturation and fertilization than their counterparts isolated from medium-sized and preovulatory follicles. This study aimed to assess the effect of a new maturation medium containing FGF2, LIF, and IGF1 (FLI medium) on the meiotic and developmental competence of pig cumulus-oocytes complexes (COCs) derived from the small and medium-sized follicles. METHODS The growing oocytes were isolated from 1 to 2 (small follicle; SF) and the fully-grown ones from 3 to 6 (large follicle; LF) mm follicles and matured in a control M199 medium with gonadotropins and EGF and the FLI medium enriched by the triplet of growth factors. The matured oocytes were parthenogenetically activated and cultured to the blastocyst stage. Chromatin configuration before and during the culture and MAP kinase activity were assessed in the oocytes. Finally, the expression of cumulus cell genes previously identified as markers of oocyte quality was assessed. RESULTS The maturation and blastocyst rates of oocytes gained from LF were significantly higher than that from SF in the control medium. In contrast, similar proportions of oocytes from LF and SF completed meiosis and developed to blastocysts when cultured in FLI. Most of the oocytes freshly isolated from SF possessed germinal vesicles with fine filaments of chromatin (GV0) or chromatin surrounding the nucleolus (GVI; 30%); the oocytes from LF were mainly in GVI (or GVII) exhibiting a few small lumps of chromatin beneath the nuclear membrane. When cultured in the FLI medium for 16 h, an acceleration of the course of maturation in oocytes both from SF and LF compared to the control medium was observed and a remarkable synchrony in the course of chromatin remodeling was noticed in oocytes from SF and LF. CONCLUSIONS This work demonstrates that the enrichment of culture medium by FGF2, LIF, and IGF1 can enhance the meiotic and developmental competence of not only fully-grown, but also growing pig oocytes and significantly thus expanding the number of oocytes available for various assisted reproductive technology applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Rosenbaum Bartková
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology, Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Informatics, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Lucie Němcová
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology, Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic.
| | - Veronika Kinterová
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology, Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
| | | | - František Strejček
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Informatics, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Tereza Toralová
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology, Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
| | - Jozef Laurinčík
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Informatics, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, Slovak Republic
| | - Radek Procházka
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology, Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Liběchov, Czech Republic
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20
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Mostinckx L, Goyens E, Mackens S, Roelens C, Boudry L, Uvin V, Segers I, Schoemans C, Drakopoulos P, Blockeel C, De Vos M. Clinical outcomes from ART in predicted hyperresponders: in vitro maturation of oocytes versus conventional ovarian stimulation for IVF/ICSI. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:586-594. [PMID: 38177084 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do ongoing pregnancy rates (OPRs) differ in predicted hyperresponders undergoing ART after IVM of oocytes compared with conventional ovarian stimulation (OS) for IVF/ICSI? SUMMARY ANSWER One cycle of IVM is non-inferior to one cycle of OS in women with serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels ≥10 ng/ml. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Women with high antral follicle count and elevated serum AMH levels, indicating an increased functional ovarian reserve, are prone to hyperresponse during ART treatment. To avoid iatrogenic complications of OS, IVM has been proposed as a mild-approach alternative treatment in predicted hyperresponders, including women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who are eligible for ART. To date, inferior pregnancy rates from IVM compared to OS have hampered the uptake of IVM by ART clinics. However, it is unclear whether the efficiency gap between IVM and OS may differ depending on the extent of AMH elevation. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This study is a retrospective cohort analysis of clinical and laboratory data from the first completed highly purified hMG (HP-hMG) primed, non-hCG-triggered IVM or OS (FSH or HP-hMG stimulation in a GnRH antagonist protocol) cycle with ICSI in predicted hyperresponders ≤36 years of age at a tertiary referral university hospital. A total of 1707 cycles were included between January 2016 and June 2022. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Predicted hyperresponse was defined as a serum AMH level ≥3.25 ng/ml (Elecsys® AMH, Roche Diagnostics). The primary outcome was cumulative ongoing pregnancy rate assessed 10-11 weeks after embryo transfer (ET). The predefined non-inferiority limit was -10.0%. The analysis was adjusted for AMH strata. Time-to-pregnancy, defined as the number of ET cycles until ongoing pregnancy was achieved, was a secondary outcome. Statistical analysis was performed using a multivariable regression model controlling for potential confounders. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Data from 463 IVM cycles were compared with those from 1244 OS cycles. Women in the IVM group more often had a diagnosis of Rotterdam PCOS (434/463, 93.7%) compared to those undergoing OS (522/1193, 43.8%), were significantly younger (29.5 years versus 30.5 years, P ≤ 0.001), had a higher BMI (25.7 kg/m2 versus 25.1 kg/m2, P ≤ 0.01) and higher AMH (11.6 ng/ml versus 5.3 ng/ml, P ≤ 0.001). Although IVM cycles yielded more cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) (24.5 versus 15.0 COC, P ≤ 0.001), both groups had similar numbers of mature oocytes (metaphase II (MII)) (11.9 MII versus 10.6 MII, P = 0.9). In the entire cohort, non-adjusted cumulative OPR from IVM was significantly lower (198/463, 42.8%) compared to OS (794/1244, 63.8%), P ≤ 0.001. When analysing OPR across different serum AMH strata, cumulative OPR in both groups converged with increasing serum AMH, and OPR from IVM was non-inferior compared to OS from serum AMH levels >10 ng/ml onwards (113/221, 51.1% (IVM); 29/48, 60.4% (OS)). The number of ETs needed to reach an ongoing pregnancy was comparable in both the IVM and the OS group (1.6 versus 1.5 ET's, P = 0.44). Multivariable regression analysis adjusting for ART type, age, BMI, oocyte number, and PCOS phenotype showed that the number of COCs was the only parameter associated with OPR in predicted hyperresponders with a serum AMH >10 ng/ml. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION These data should be interpreted with caution as the retrospective nature of the study holds the possibility of unmeasured confounding factors. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Among subfertile women who are eligible for ART, IVM, and OS resulted in comparable reproductive outcomes in a subset of women with a serum AMH ≥10 ng/ml. These findings should be corroborated by a randomised controlled trial (RCT) comparing both treatments in selected patients with elevated AMH. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) There was no external funding for this study. P.D. has been consultant to Merck Healthcare KGaA (Darmstadt, Germany) from April 2021 till June 2023 and is a Merck employee (Medical Director, Global Medical Affairs Fertility) with Merck Healthcare KGAaA (Darmstadt, Germany) since July 2023. He declares honoraria for lecturing from Merck KGaA, MSD, Organon, and Ferring. The remaining authors declared no conflict of interest pertaining to this study. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Mostinckx
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - E Goyens
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - S Mackens
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - C Roelens
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - L Boudry
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - V Uvin
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - I Segers
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - C Schoemans
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - P Drakopoulos
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- IVF Greece, Athens, Greece
| | - C Blockeel
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - M De Vos
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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21
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Richani D, Poljak A, Wang B, Mahbub SB, Biazik J, Campbell JM, Habibalahi A, Stocker WA, Marinova MB, Nixon B, Bustamante S, Skerrett-Byrne D, Harrison CA, Goldys E, Gilchrist RB. Oocyte and cumulus cell cooperativity and metabolic plasticity under the direction of oocyte paracrine factors. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2024; 326:E366-E381. [PMID: 38197792 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00148.2023] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Mammalian oocytes develop and mature in a mutually dependent relationship with surrounding cumulus cells. The oocyte actively regulates cumulus cell differentiation and function by secreting soluble paracrine oocyte-secreted factors (OSFs). We characterized the molecular mechanisms by which two model OSFs, cumulin and BMP15, regulate oocyte maturation and cumulus-oocyte cooperativity. Exposure to these OSFs during mouse oocyte maturation in vitro altered the proteomic and multispectral autofluorescence profiles of both the oocyte and cumulus cells. In oocytes, cumulin significantly upregulated proteins involved in nuclear function. In cumulus cells, both OSFs elicited marked upregulation of a variety of metabolic processes (mostly anabolic), including lipid, nucleotide, and carbohydrate metabolism, whereas mitochondrial metabolic processes were downregulated. The mitochondrial changes were validated by functional assays confirming altered mitochondrial morphology, respiration, and content while maintaining ATP homeostasis. Collectively, these data demonstrate that cumulin and BMP15 remodel cumulus cell metabolism, instructing them to upregulate their anabolic metabolic processes, while routine cellular functions are minimized in the oocyte during maturation, in preparation for ensuing embryonic development.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Oocyte-secreted factors (OSFs) promote oocyte and cumulus cell cooperativity by altering the molecular composition of both cell types. OSFs downregulate protein catabolic processes and upregulate processes associated with DNA binding, translation, and ribosome assembly in oocytes. In cumulus cells, OSFs alter mitochondrial number, morphology, and function, and enhance metabolic plasticity by upregulating anabolic pathways. Hence, the oocyte via OSFs, instructs cumulus cells to increase metabolic processes on its behalf, thereby subduing oocyte metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dulama Richani
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Anne Poljak
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Facility, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Baily Wang
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Saabah B Mahbub
- ARC Centre of Excellence Centre for Nanoscale Biophotonics, Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Joanna Biazik
- Electron Microscope Unit, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jared M Campbell
- ARC Centre of Excellence Centre for Nanoscale Biophotonics, Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Abbas Habibalahi
- ARC Centre of Excellence Centre for Nanoscale Biophotonics, Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - William A Stocker
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Maria B Marinova
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sonia Bustamante
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Facility, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David Skerrett-Byrne
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Craig A Harrison
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ewa Goldys
- Electron Microscope Unit, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robert B Gilchrist
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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22
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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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Lacconi V, Massimiani M, Carriero I, Bianco C, Ticconi C, Pavone V, Alteri A, Muzii L, Rago R, Pisaturo V, Campagnolo L. When the Embryo Meets the Endometrium: Identifying the Features Required for Successful Embryo Implantation. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2834. [PMID: 38474081 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Evaluation of the optimal number of embryos, their quality, and the precise timing for transfer are critical determinants in reproductive success, although still remaining one of the main challenges in assisted reproduction technologies (ART). Indeed, the success of in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments relies on a multitude of events and factors involving both the endometrium and the embryo. Despite concerted efforts on both fronts, the overall success rates of IVF techniques continue to range between 25% and 30%. The role of the endometrium in implantation has been recently recognized, leading to the hypothesis that both the "soil" and the "seed" play a central role in a successful pregnancy. In this respect, identification of the molecular signature of endometrial receptivity together with the selection of the best embryo for transfer become crucial in ART. Currently, efforts have been made to develop accurate, predictive, and personalized tests to identify the window of implantation and the best quality embryo. However, the value of these tests is still debated, as conflicting results are reported in the literature. The purpose of this review is to summarize and critically report the available criteria to optimize the success of embryo transfer and to better understand current limitations and potential areas for improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Lacconi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
- Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Via di Sant'Alessandro 8, 00131 Rome, Italy
| | - Micol Massimiani
- Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Via di Sant'Alessandro 8, 00131 Rome, Italy
| | - Ilenia Carriero
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Bianco
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Ticconi
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Section of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Pavone
- Reproductive Sciences Laboratory, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Alteri
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Ludovico Muzii
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Policlinico Umberto I, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Rocco Rago
- Physiopathology of Reproduction and Andrology Unit, Sandro Pertini Hospital, Via dei Monti Tiburtini 385/389, 00157 Rome, Italy
| | - Valerio Pisaturo
- Department of Maternal and Child Health and Urological Sciences, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Policlinico Umberto I, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Campagnolo
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
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Zhou C, Zeng H, Xiao X, Wang L, Jia L, Shi Y, Zhang M, Fang C, Zeng Y, Wu T, Huang J, Liang X. Global crotonylome identifies EP300-regulated ANXA2 crotonylation in cumulus cells as a regulator of oocyte maturation. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 259:129149. [PMID: 38176486 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.129149] [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: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Lysine crotonylation (Kcr), a newly discovered post-translational modification, played a crucial role in physiology and disease progression. However, the roles of crotonylation in oocyte meiotic resumption remain elusive. As abnormal cumulus cell development will cause oocyte maturation arrest and female infertility, we report that cumulus cells surrounding human meiotic arrested oocytes showed significantly lower crotonylation, which was associated with decreased EP300 expression and blocked cumulus cell expansion. In cultured human cumulus cells, exogenous crotonylation or EP300 activator promoted cell proliferation and reduced cell apoptosis, whereas EP300 knockdown induced the opposite effect. Transcriptome profiling analysis in human cumulus cells indicated that functions of crotonylation were associated with activation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway. Importantly, we characterized the Kcr proteomics landscape in cumulus cells by LC-MS/MS analysis, and identified that annexin A2 (ANXA2) was crotonylated in cumulus cells in an EP300-dependent manner. Crotonylation of ANXA2 enhanced the ANXA2-EGFR binding, and then activated the EGFR pathway to affect cumulus cell proliferation and apoptosis. Using mouse oocytes IVM model and EP300 knockout mice, we further confirmed that crotonylation alteration in cumulus cells affected the oocyte maturation. Together, our results indicated that EP300-mediated crotonylation is important for cumulus cells functions and oocyte maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanchuan Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility Preservation, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China; Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Haitao Zeng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility Preservation, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Xingxing Xiao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; Department of Gynecology, Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), Foshan, Guangdong, 528308, China
| | - Li Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; Tongren People's Hospital, Guizhou, 554300, China
| | - Lei Jia
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility Preservation, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanan Shi
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility Preservation, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Minfang Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility Preservation, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Cong Fang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility Preservation, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanyan Zeng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility Preservation, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China; Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Taibao Wu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility Preservation, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China; Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiana Huang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility Preservation, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China; Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoyan Liang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510655, China; GuangDong Engineering Technology Research Center of Fertility Preservation, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China; Biomedical Innovation Center, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, Guangdong, China.
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25
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Ji H, Zhang Q, Ding L, Chen R, Liu F, Li P. Structural and metabolic cumulus cell alteration affects oocyte quality in underweight women. ZYGOTE 2024; 32:77-86. [PMID: 38130161 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199423000588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the structural and metabolic changes in cumulus cells of underweight women and their effects on oocyte maturation and fertilization. The cytoplasmic ultrastructure was analyzed by electron microscopy, mitochondrial membrane potential by immunofluorescence, and mitochondrial DNA copy number by relative quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The expression of various proteins including the oxidative stress-derived product 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) and autophagy and apoptosis markers such as Vps34, Atg-5, Beclin 1, Lc3-I, II, Bax, and Bcl-2 was assessed and compared between groups. Oocyte maturation and fertilization rates were lower in underweight women (P < 0.05), who presented with cumulus cells showing abnormal mitochondrial morphology and increased cell autophagy. Compared with the mitochondrial DNA copies of the control group, those of the underweight group increased but not significantly. The mitochondrial membrane potential was similar between the groups (P = 0.8). Vps34, Atg-5, Lc3-II, Bax, and Bcl-2 expression and 4-HNE levels were higher in the underweight group compared with the control group (P < 0.01); however, the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio was lower in the underweight group compared with the control group (P = 0.031). Additionally, Beclin 1 protein levels were higher in the underweight group compared with the control group but without statistical significance. In conclusion, malnutrition and other conditions in underweight women may adversely affect ovulation, and the development, and fertilization of oocytes resulting from changes to the intracellular structure of cumulus cells and metabolic processes. These changes may lead to reduced fertility or unsatisfactory reproduction outcomes in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Ji
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Zhenhai Road 10, 361003 Xiamen, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
- Xiamen Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, Zhenhai Road 10, 361003, Xiamen, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Zhenhai Road 10, 361003 Xiamen, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
- Xiamen Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, Zhenhai Road 10, 361003, Xiamen, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Ding
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Zhenhai Road 10, 361003 Xiamen, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
- Xiamen Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, Zhenhai Road 10, 361003, Xiamen, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Rongjuan Chen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Zhenhai Road 10, 361003 Xiamen, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
- Xiamen Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, Zhenhai Road 10, 361003, Xiamen, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Fu Liu
- Department of Human Anatomy and Histoembryology, Xiamen Medical College, Guankou Middle Road 1999, 361023, Xiamen, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Zhenhai Road 10, 361003 Xiamen, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
- Xiamen Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, Zhenhai Road 10, 361003, Xiamen, Fujian Province, People's Republic of China
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An Z, Xie C, Lu H, Wang S, Zhang X, Yu W, Guo X, Liu Z, Shang D, Wang X. Mitochondrial Morphology and Function Abnormality in Ovarian Granulosa Cells of Patients with Diminished Ovarian Reserve. Reprod Sci 2024:10.1007/s43032-024-01459-1. [PMID: 38294667 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01459-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
In this study, we examined the changes in the mitochondrial structure and function in cumulus granulosa cells of patients with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) to explore the causes and mechanisms of decreased mitochondrial quality. The mitochondrial ultrastructure was observed by transmission electron microscope, and the function was determined by detecting the ATP content, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, the number of mitochondria, and the mitochondrial membrane potential. The expression of ATP synthases in relation to mitochondrial function was analyzed. Additionally, protein immunoblotting was used to compare the expression levels of mitochondrial kinetic protein, the related channel protein in the two groups. Patients with DOR had abnormal granulosa cell morphology, increased mitochondrial abnormalities, decreased mitochondrial function, and disturbed mitochondrial dynamics. Additionally, the silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1)/phospho-AMP-activated protein kinase (P-AMPK)-peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator 1 alpha (PGC-1α) pathway expression was decreased, which was speculated to be associated with the decreased mitochondrial mass in the DOR group. The mitochondrial mass was decreased in granulosa cells of patients in the DOR group. The mitochondrial dysfunction observed in granulosa cells of patients in the DOR group may be associated with dysregulation of the SIRT1/P-AMPK-PGC-1α-mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo An
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health Science and Technology, No. 480 Heping Road, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
- Hebei Medical University, No. 361 Zhongshan Road, Chang'An District, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China
| | - Congcong Xie
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health Science and Technology, No. 480 Heping Road, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Hui Lu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health Science and Technology, No. 480 Heping Road, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Shusong Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health Science and Technology, No. 480 Heping Road, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Xiujia Zhang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health Science and Technology, No. 480 Heping Road, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Wenbo Yu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health Science and Technology, No. 480 Heping Road, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Xiaoli Guo
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health Science and Technology, No. 480 Heping Road, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China
| | - Zehao Liu
- Hebei Children's Hospital, Shijiazhuang, 050031, China
| | - Dandan Shang
- Hebei Medical University, No. 361 Zhongshan Road, Chang'An District, Shijiazhuang, 050017, China.
| | - Xueying Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Hebei Reproductive Health Hospital, Hebei Institute of Reproductive Health Science and Technology, No. 480 Heping Road, Xinhua District, Shijiazhuang, 050071, China.
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27
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Wang T, Zhang Z, Qu C, Song W, Li M, Shao X, Fukuda T, Gu J, Taniguchi N, Li W. Core fucosylation regulates the ovarian response via FSH receptor during follicular development. J Adv Res 2024:S2090-1232(24)00038-9. [PMID: 38280716 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2024.01.025] [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: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ovarian low response to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) causes infertility featuring hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, ovarian failure, and/or defective ovarian response. OBJECTIVES N-glycosylation is essential for FSH receptor (FSHR). Core fucosylation catalyzed by fucosyltransferase 8 (FUT8) is the most common N-glycosylation. Core fucosylation level changes between individuals and plays important roles in multiple physiological and pathological conditions. This study aims to elucidate the significance of FUT8 to modulate FSHR function in female fertility. METHODS Samples from patients classified as poor ovary responders (PORs) were detected with lectin blot and real-time PCR. Fut8 gene knockout (Fut8-/-) mice and FUT8-knockdown human granulosa cell line (KGN-KD) were established and in vitro fertilization (IVF) assay, western blot, molecular interaction, immunofluorescence and immunoprecipitation were applied. RESULTS Core fucosylation is indispensable for oocyte and follicular development. FSHR is a highly core-fucosylated glycoprotein. Loss of core fucosylation suppressed binding of FSHR to FSH, and attenuated FSHR downstream signaling in granulosa cells. Transcriptomic analysis revealed the downregulation of several transcripts crucial for oocyte meiotic progression and preimplantation development in Fut8-/- mice and in POR patients. Furthermore, loss of FUT8 inhibited the interaction between granulosa cells and oocytes, reduced transzonal projection (TZP) formation and caused poor developmental competence of oocytes after fertilization in vitro. While L-fucose administration increased the core fucosylation of FSHR, and its sensitivity to FSH. CONCLUSION This study first reveals a significant presence of core fucosylation in female fertility control. Decreased fucosylation on FSHR reduces the interaction of FSH-FSHR and subsequent signaling, which is a feature of the POR patients. Our results suggest that core fucosylation controls oocyte and follicular development via the FSH/FSHR pathway and is essential for female fertility in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiantong Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, China; College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, 9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian, Liaoning 116044, China
| | - Zhiwei Zhang
- Institute of Molecular Biomembrane and Glycobiology, Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University, 4-4-1 Komatsushima, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 981-8558, Japan
| | - Changduo Qu
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, 9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian, Liaoning 116044, China
| | - Wanli Song
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, China
| | - Ming Li
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, 9 West Section Lvshun South Road, Dalian, Liaoning 116044, China
| | - Xiaoguang Shao
- Medical Center for Reproductive and Genetic Research, Dalian Municipal Women and Children's Medical Center, 878 Xibei Road, Gezhenbao Street, Dalian, Liaoning 116037, China
| | - Tomohiko Fukuda
- Institute of Molecular Biomembrane and Glycobiology, Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University, 4-4-1 Komatsushima, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 981-8558, Japan
| | - Jianguo Gu
- Institute of Molecular Biomembrane and Glycobiology, Tohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University, 4-4-1 Komatsushima, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 981-8558, Japan
| | - Naoyuki Taniguchi
- Department of Glyco-Oncology and Medical Biochemistry, Osaka International Cancer Institute, 3-1-69 Otemae, Chuoku, Osaka 541-8567, Japan
| | - Wenzhe Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Cancer Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, China; Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Road, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, China.
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Bresnahan DR, Catandi GD, Peters SO, Maclellan LJ, Broeckling CD, Carnevale EM. Maturation and culture affect the metabolomic profile of oocytes and follicular cells in young and old mares. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 11:1280998. [PMID: 38283993 PMCID: PMC10811030 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1280998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Oocytes and follicular somatic cells within the ovarian follicle are altered during maturation and after exposure to culture in vitro. In the present study, we used a nontargeted metabolomics approach to assess changes in oocytes, cumulus cells, and granulosa cells from dominant, follicular-phase follicles in young and old mares. Methods: Samples were collected at three stages associated with oocyte maturation: (1) GV, germinal vesicle stage, prior to the induction of follicle/oocyte maturation in vivo; (2) MI, metaphase I, maturing, collected 24 h after induction of maturation in vivo; and (3) MIIC, metaphase II, mature with collection 24 h after induction of maturation in vivo plus 18 h of culture in vitro. Samples were analyzed using gas and liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry only when all three stages of a specific cell type were obtained from the same mare. Results and Discussion: Significant differences in metabolite abundance were most often associated with MIIC, with some of the differences appearing to be linked to the final stage of maturation and others to exposure to culture medium. While differences occurred for many metabolite groups, some of the most notable were detected for energy and lipid metabolism and amino acid abundance. The study demonstrated that metabolomics has potential to aid in optimizing culture methods and evaluating cell culture additives to support differences in COCs associated with maternal factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- D R Bresnahan
- Department of Animal Sciences, Berry College, Mount Berry, GA, United States
| | - G D Catandi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - S O Peters
- Department of Animal Sciences, Berry College, Mount Berry, GA, United States
| | - L J Maclellan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - C D Broeckling
- Proteomic and Metabolomics Core Facility, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - E M Carnevale
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
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Shi J, Hu KL, Li XX, Ge YM, Yu XJ, Zhao J. Bisphenol a downregulates GLUT4 expression by activating aryl hydrocarbon receptor to exacerbate polycystic ovary syndrome. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:28. [PMID: 38200540 PMCID: PMC10782693 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01410-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bisphenol A (BPA) levels are high in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The mechanism by which BPA induces abnormal glucose metabolism in PCOS patients is largely unknown. METHODS Serum and urine samples were collected from women with and without PCOS (control) at the reproductive medicine center with informed consent. Non-PCOS patients who received in vitro fertilization were recruited for collection of ovarian follicular fluid and granular cells. Wild-type C57BL/6 and AhR -/- mice were used to verify the effects of BPA on PCOS. Real-time PCR, western blotting, and ELISA were conducted to analyze the function of BPA. Chip-qPCR verified the role of AhR in GLUT4 transcription. Flow cytometry was performed to determine glucose uptake. RESULTS A positive correlation was observed between BPA concentration and serum BPA levels in PCOS patients. BPA aggravated the changes in PCOS with abnormal glucose metabolism, impaired fertility, and increased body fat. Mechanistically, we showed that BPA activated AhR and led to decreased glucose transport via GLUT4 downregulation in ovarian granular cells. Therefore, the use of inhibitors or knockout of AhR could effectively rescue BPA-induced metabolic disorders in PCOS mice. CONCLUSIONS Our results revealed that BPA suppressed GLUT4 expression and induced abnormal glucose metabolism by activating AhR, causing insulin resistance, and is thus a potential contributor to the development of PCOS. Therefore, AhR could be a potential new therapeutic target for PCOS. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Shi
- Department of Pharmacy, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Kai-Lun Hu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, 49 North Garden Rd, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing, 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Xiao-Xue Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, 49 North Garden Rd, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yi-Meng Ge
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, 49 North Garden Rd, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Xiao-Jun Yu
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Jie Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, 49 North Garden Rd, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, 100191, China.
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30
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Gilchrist RB, Ho TM, De Vos M, Sanchez F, Romero S, Ledger WL, Anckaert E, Vuong LN, Smitz J. A fresh start for IVM: capacitating the oocyte for development using pre-IVM. Hum Reprod Update 2024; 30:3-25. [PMID: 37639630 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While oocyte IVM is practiced sporadically it has not achieved widespread clinical practice globally. However, recently there have been some seminal advances in our understanding of basic aspects of oocyte biology and ovulation from animal studies that have led to novel approaches to IVM. A significant recent advance in IVM technology is the use of biphasic IVM approaches. These involve the collection of immature oocytes from small antral follicles from minimally stimulated patients/animals (without hCG-priming) and an ∼24 h pre-culture of oocytes in an advanced culture system ('pre-IVM') prior to IVM, followed by routine IVF procedures. If safe and efficacious, this novel procedure may stand to make a significant impact on human ART practices. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The objectives of this review are to examine the major scientific advances in ovarian biology with a unique focus on the development of pre-IVM methodologies, to provide an insight into biphasic IVM procedures, and to report on outcomes from animal and clinical human data, including safety data. The potential future impact of biphasic IVM on ART practice is discussed. SEARCH METHODS Peer review original and review articles were selected from PubMed and Web of Science searches for this narrative review. Searches were performed using the following keywords: oocyte IVM, pre-IVM, biphasic IVM, CAPA-IVM, hCG-triggered/primed IVM, natural cycle IVF/M, ex-vivo IVM, OTO-IVM, oocyte maturation, meiotic competence, oocyte developmental competence, oocyte capacitation, follicle size, cumulus cell (CC), granulosa cell, COC, gap-junction communication, trans-zonal process, cAMP and IVM, cGMP and IVM, CNP and IVM, EGF-like peptide and IVM, minimal stimulation ART, PCOS. OUTCOMES Minimizing gonadotrophin use means IVM oocytes will be collected from small antral (pre-dominant) follicles containing oocytes that are still developing. Standard IVM yields suboptimal clinical outcomes using such oocytes, whereas pre-IVM aims to continue the oocyte's development ex vivo, prior to IVM. Pre-IVM achieves this by eliciting profound cellular changes in the oocyte's CCs, which continue to meet the oocyte's developmental needs during the pre-IVM phase. The literature contains 25 years of animal research on various pre-IVM and biphasic IVM procedures, which serves as a large knowledge base for new approaches to human IVM. A pre-IVM procedure based on c-type natriuretic peptide (named 'capacitation-IVM' (CAPA-IVM)) has undergone pre-clinical human safety and efficacy trials and its adoption into clinical practice resulted in healthy live birth rates not different from conventional IVF. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Over many decades, improvements in clinical IVM have been gradual and incremental but there has likely been a turning of the tide in the past few years, with landmark discoveries in animal oocyte biology finally making their way into clinical practice leading to improved outcomes for patients. Demonstration of favorable clinical results with CAPA-IVM, as the first clinically tested biphasic IVM system, has led to renewed interest in IVM as an alternative, low-intervention, low-cost, safe, patient-friendly ART approach, and especially for patients with PCOS. The same new approach is being used as part of fertility preservation in patients with cancer and holds promise for social oocyte freezing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert B Gilchrist
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Tuong M Ho
- IVFMD, My Duc Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Michel De Vos
- Brussels IVF, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Flor Sanchez
- Centro de Estudios e Investigaciones en Biología y Medicina Reproductiva, Lima, Peru
| | - Sergio Romero
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology and Fertility Preservation, Cayetano Heredia University (UPCH), Lima, Peru
- Centro de Fertilidad y Reproducción Asistida, Lima, Peru
| | - William L Ledger
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, NSW, Australia
- City Fertility, Global CHA IVF Partners, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ellen Anckaert
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lan N Vuong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Johan Smitz
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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Zhang Z, Tian J, Liu W, Zhou J, Zhang Y, Ding L, Sun H, Yan G, Sheng X. Perfluorooctanoic acid exposure leads to defect in follicular development through disrupting the mitochondrial electron transport chain in granulosa cells. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 905:166954. [PMID: 37722425 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a persistent environmental pollutant that can impair ovarian function, while the underlying mechanism is not fully understood, and effective treatments are lacking. In this study, we established a mouse model of PFOA exposure induced by drinking water and found that PFOA exposure impaired follicle development, increased apoptosis of granulosa cells (GCs), and hindered normal follicular development in a 3D culture system. RNA-seq analysis revealed that PFOA disrupted oxidative phosphorylation in ovaries by impairing the mitochondrial electron transport chain. This resulted in reduced mitochondrial membrane potential and increased mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) in isolated GCs or KGN cells. Resveratrol, a mitochondrial nutrient supplement, could improve mitochondrial function and restore normal follicular development by activating FoxO1 through SIRT1/PI3K-AKT pathway. Our results indicate that PFOA exposure impairs mitochondrial function in GCs and affects follicle development. Resveratrol can be a potential therapeutic agent for PFOA-induced ovarian dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiao Tian
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenwen Liu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jidong Zhou
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lijun Ding
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Haixiang Sun
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Guijun Yan
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; Center for Molecular Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China; State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Xiaoqiang Sheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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Han Y, Qu X, Chen X, Lv Y, Zhang Y, Jin Y. Effects of follicular fluid exosomes on in vitro maturation of porcine oocytes. Anim Biotechnol 2023; 34:2757-2765. [PMID: 36036234 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2022.2114084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Exosomes are related to effective communication between cells. In this study we aimed to investigate the effect of porcine follicular fluid exosomes (FF-Exo) on cumulus expansion, oocyte mitochondrial membrane potential, and maturation in in vitro culture. We used different concentrations of FF-Exo (Exo-0, Exo-1, Exo-10, Exo-20, and Exo-40) and added them to an oocyte maturation medium. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) and western blot (WB) showed that the isolated samples were exosomes. Immunofluorescence showed that exosomes could be taken up by cumulus cells. Compared with the Exo-0 group, there was no significant difference in oocyte maturation rate in the Exo-1 group (p > 0.05), while the Exo-10 group (p < 0.05), Exo-20 group (p < 0.01) and Exo-40 group (p < 0.01) significantly increased. The maturation rate of the Exo-20 and Exo-40 groups was the highest, and there was no significant difference between the two groups (p > 0.05). However, different concentrations of treatment could not effectively induce cumulus expansion and the results of JC1 showed that it had no significant effect on mitochondrial membrane potential (p > 0.05). In conclusion, the results suggest that porcine FF-Exo are involved in oocyte nuclear maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Han
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province, China
| | - Xinglin Qu
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province, China
| | - Xuan Chen
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yanqiu Lv
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yuyang Zhang
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yi Jin
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin Province, China
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Zhang CH, Liu XY, Wang J. Essential Role of Granulosa Cell Glucose and Lipid Metabolism on Oocytes and the Potential Metabolic Imbalance in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16247. [PMID: 38003436 PMCID: PMC10671516 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216247] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Granulosa cells are crucial for the establishment and maintenance of bidirectional communication among oocytes. Various intercellular material exchange modes, including paracrine and gap junction, are used between them to achieve the efficient delivery of granulosa cell structural components, energy substrates, and signaling molecules to oocytes. Glucose metabolism and lipid metabolism are two basic energy metabolism pathways in granulosa cells; these are involved in the normal development of oocytes. Pyruvate, produced by granulosa cell glycolysis, is an important energy substrate for oocyte development. Granulosa cells regulate changes in intrafollicular hormone levels through the processing of steroid hormones to control the development process of oocytes. This article reviews the material exchange between oocytes and granulosa cells and expounds the significance of granulosa cells in the development of oocytes through both glucose metabolism and lipid metabolism. In addition, we discuss the effects of glucose and lipid metabolism on oocytes under pathological conditions and explore its relationship to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). A series of changes were found in the endogenous molecules and ncRNAs that are related to glucose and lipid metabolism in granulosa cells under PCOS conditions. These findings provide a new therapeutic target for patients with PCOS; additionally, there is potential for improving the fertility of patients with PCOS and the clinical outcomes of assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Hua Zhang
- Queen Mary School, Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China; (C.-H.Z.); (X.-Y.L.)
| | - Xiang-Yi Liu
- Queen Mary School, Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China; (C.-H.Z.); (X.-Y.L.)
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
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Martínez-Moro Á, González-Brusi L, Querejeta-Fernández A, Padilla-Ruiz E, García-Blanco J, Bermejo-Álvarez P. Metabolomics analysis of human cumulus cells obtained from cumulus-oocyte complexes with different developmental potential. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:2187-2195. [PMID: 37697661 PMCID: PMC10628504 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead181] [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: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is the abundance of certain biochemical compounds in human cumulus cells (CCs) related to oocyte quality? SUMMARY ANSWER Malonate, 5-oxyproline, and erythronate were positively associated with pregnancy potential. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY CCs are removed and discarded prior to ICSI, thereby constituting an interesting biological material on which to perform molecular analysis aimed to predict oocyte developmental competence. Mitochondrial DNA content and transcriptional analyses in CC have been shown to provide a poor predictive value of oocyte competence, but the untargeted analysis of biochemical compounds (metabolomics) has been unexplored. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION CCs were obtained from three groups of cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) of known developmental potential: oocytes not developing to blastocyst following ICSI (Bl-); oocytes developing to blastocyst but failing to establish pregnancy following embryo transfer (P-); and oocytes developing to blastocyst able to establish a pregnancy (P+). Metabolomics analyses were performed on 12 samples per group, each sample comprising the CC recovered from a single COC. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Human CC samples were obtained from IVF treatments. Only unfrozen oocytes and embryos not submitted to preimplantation genetic testing were included in the analysis. Metabolomics analysis was performed by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectroscopy. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The analysis identified 98 compounds, five of which were differentially abundant (P < 0.05) between groups: asparagine, proline, and malonate were less abundant in P- compared to Bl-, malonate and 5-oxoproline were less abundant in P- group compared to P+, and erythronate was less abundant in Bl- group compared to P+. No significant association between the abundance of the compounds identified and donor age or BMI was noted. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Data dispersion and the lack of coherence between developmental groups preclude the direct use of metabolic markers in clinical practice, where the uterine environment plays a major role in pregnancy outcome. The abundance of other compounds not detected by the analysis may be associated with oocyte competence. As donors were lean (only two with BMI > 30 kg/m2) and young (<34 years old), a possible effect of obesity or advanced age on the CC metabolome could not be determined. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The abundance of malonate, 5-oxyproline, and erythronate in CC was significantly higher in COCs ultimately establishing pregnancy, providing clues on the pathways required for oocyte competence. The untargeted analysis uncovered the presence of compounds that were not expected in CC, such as β-citrylglutamate and the neurotransmitter N-acetyl-aspartyl-glutamate, which may play roles in chromatin remodeling and signaling, respectively. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) Research was supported by the Industrial Doctorate Project IND2017/BIO-7748 funded by Madrid Region Government. The authors declare no competing interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro Martínez-Moro
- Animal Reproduction Department, INIA, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
- IVF Spain, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Ana Querejeta-Fernández
- Departamento de Química Inorgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
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Ray JG, Harel Z, Gilbert RE, Wald R, Berger H, Park AL. Preconception SGLT2 or DPP4 inhibitor use and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2023; 205:110946. [PMID: 37813164 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2023.110946] [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: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
AIMS To compare preconception use of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2i) and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4i) inhibitors to sulfonylurea agents, and associated peri-conceptional A1c concentration, and risk of pregnancy loss and congenital anomalies. METHODS This population-based cohort study used administrative datasets for all of Ontario, Canada, and included women eligible for free medication coverage and who achieved a recognized pregnancy from April 2007-November 2021. Exposure was a SGLT2i, DPP4i or sulfonylurea (referent) dispensed at least 90 days preconception. Study outcomes included differences in periconceptional A1c; miscarriage, induced abortion, or stillbirth; and any congenital anomaly - the latter two outcomes assessed using propensity score overlap weighting. RESULTS The mean (SD) periconceptional A1c was 8.1 % (2.0) among those prescribed any sulfonylurea, compared with 8.3 % (2.0) with a DPP4i and 7.8 % (1.6) with any SGLT2i. The risk of pregnancy loss was lowest among those exclusively prescribed a SGLT2i (relative risk [RR] 0.51, 95 % CI 0.22 to 0.91). Risk of a congenital anomaly at birth did not differ significantly comparing DPP4i or SGLT2i to sulfonylurea agents. CONCLUSIONS Neither SGLT2i nor DPP4i use before pregnancy was associated with a difference in A1c, or a higher risk of selective adverse outcomes, compared to sulfonylureas. Future larger studies are required, including assessment of medication use after conception, during the critical period of embryogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel G Ray
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medicine, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Ziv Harel
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medicine, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Richard E Gilbert
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medicine, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ron Wald
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medicine, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Howard Berger
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medicine, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Zhang J, Zhou XY, Wang A, Lai YH, Zhang XF, Liu XT, Wang Z, Liu YD, Tang SY, Chen SL. Novel Tu translation elongation factor, mitochondrial (TUFM) homozygous variant in a consanguineous family with premature ovarian insufficiency. Clin Genet 2023; 104:516-527. [PMID: 37461298 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14403] [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: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a clinical syndrome of ovarian dysfunction characterized by cessation of menstruation occurring before the age of 40 years. The genetic causes of idiopathic POI remain unclear. Here we recruited a POI patient from a consanguineous family to screen for potential pathogenic variants associated with POI. Genetic variants of the pedigree were screened using whole-exome sequencing analysis and validated through direct Sanger sequencing. A homozygous variant in TUFM (c.524G>C: p.Gly175Ala) was identified in this family. TUFM (Tu translation elongation factor, mitochondrial) is a nuclear-encoded mitochondrial protein translation elongation factor that plays a critical role in maintaining normal mitochondrial function. The variant position was highly conserved among species and predicted to be disease causing. Our in vitro functional studies demonstrated that this variant causes decreased TUFM protein expression, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired autophagy activation. Moreover, we found that mice with targeted Tufm variant recapitulated the phenotypes of human POI. Thus, this is the first report of a homozygous pathogenic TUFM variant in POI. Our findings highlighted the essential role of mitochondrial genes in folliculogenesis and ovarian function maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xing-Yu Zhou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ao Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yun-Hui Lai
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Fei Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Tong Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu-Dong Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shu-Yan Tang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shi-Ling Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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Zhu Q, Li Y, Ma J, Ma H, Liang X. Potential factors result in diminished ovarian reserve: a comprehensive review. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:208. [PMID: 37880734 PMCID: PMC10598941 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01296-x] [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: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The ovarian reserve is defined as the quantity of oocytes stored in the ovary or the number of oocytes that can be recruited. Ovarian reserve can be affected by many factors, including hormones, metabolites, initial ovarian reserve, environmental problems, diseases, and medications, among others. With the trend of postponing of pregnancy in modern society, diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) has become one of the most common challenges in current clinical reproductive medicine. Attributed to its unclear mechanism and complex clinical features, it is difficult for physicians to administer targeted treatment. This review focuses on the factors associated with ovarian reserve and discusses the potential influences and pathogenic factors that may explain the possible mechanisms of DOR, which can be improved or built upon by subsequent researchers to verify, replicate, and establish further study findings, as well as for scientists to find new treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinying Zhu
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yi Li
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jianhong Ma
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Hao Ma
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaolei Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Gynecologic Oncology Gansu Province, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, No.1, Donggangxi Rd, Chengguan District, 730000, Lanzhou, China.
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Xhonneux I, Marei WFA, Meulders B, Andries S, Leroy JLMR. The impact of a maternal and offspring obesogenic diet on daughter's oocyte mitochondrial ultrastructure and bioenergetic responses. Insights from an outbred mouse model. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1288472. [PMID: 37965107 PMCID: PMC10642210 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1288472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity affects oocyte mitochondrial functions and reduces oocyte quality and fertility. Obesity may also increase the risk of metabolic disorders in the offspring. Children are likely to follow their parents lifestyle and diet, which also contributes to the increased prevelance of obesity across generations. We hypothesise that the impact of obesogenic (OB) diet and obesity on oocyte mitochondrial functions is different in offspring born to obese mothers compared to those born to healthy mothers. To test this hypothesis, we fed a control (C, 10% fat, 7% sugar) or an OB diet (60% fat, 20% sugar) to female mice (for 7 weeks (w)) and then to their female offspring (for 7w after weaning) in a 2 × 2 factorial design (C » C, n = 35, C » OB, n = 35, OB » C n = 49 and OB » OB, n = 50). Unlike many other studies, we used an outbred Swiss mouse model to increase the human pathophysiological relevance. Offspring were sacrificed at 10w and their oocytes were collected. Offspring OB diet increased oocyte lipid droplet content, mitochondrial activity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, altered mitochondrial ultrastructure and reduced oocyte pyruvate consumption. Mitochondrial DNA copy numbers and lactate production remained unaffected. Mitochondrial ultrastructure was the only factor where a significant interaction between maternal and offspring diet effect was detected. The maternal OB background resulted in a small but significant increase in offspring's oocyte mitochondrial ultrastructural abnormalities without altering mitochondrial inner membrane potential, active mitochondrial distribution, mitochondrial DNA copy numbers, or ROS production. This was associated with reduced mitochondrial complex III and V expression and reduced pyruvate consumption which may be compensatory mechanisms to control mitochondrial inner membrane potential and ROS levels. Therefore, in this Swiss outbred model, while offspring OB diet had the largest functional impact on oocyte mitochondrial features, the mitochondrial changes due to the maternal background appear to be adaptive and compensatory rather than dysfunctional.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inne Xhonneux
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Gamete Research Centre, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Waleed F. A. Marei
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Gamete Research Centre, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Ben Meulders
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Gamete Research Centre, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Silke Andries
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Gamete Research Centre, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Jo L. M. R. Leroy
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Laboratory of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Gamete Research Centre, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
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Tutt DAR, Guven-Ates G, Kwong WY, Simmons R, Sang F, Silvestri G, Canedo-Ribeiro C, Handyside AH, Labrecque R, Sirard MA, Emes RD, Griffin DK, Sinclair KD. Developmental, cytogenetic and epigenetic consequences of removing complex proteins and adding melatonin during in vitro maturation of bovine oocytes. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1280847. [PMID: 38027209 PMCID: PMC10647927 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1280847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In vitro maturation (IVM) of germinal vesicle intact oocytes prior to in vitro fertilization (IVF) is practiced widely in animals. In human assisted reproduction it is generally reserved for fertility preservation or where ovarian stimulation is contraindicated. Standard practice incorporates complex proteins (CP), in the form of serum and/or albumin, into IVM media to mimic the ovarian follicle environment. However, the undefined nature of CP, together with batch variation and ethical concerns regarding their origin, necessitate the development of more defined formulations. A known component of follicular fluid, melatonin, has multifaceted roles including that of a metabolic regulator and antioxidant. In certain circumstances it can enhance oocyte maturation. At this stage in development, the germinal-vesicle intact oocyte is prone to aneuploidy and epigenetic dysregulation. Objectives To determine the developmental, cytogenetic and epigenetic consequences of removing CP and including melatonin during bovine IVM. Materials and methods The study comprised a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement comparing (i) the inclusion or exclusion of CP, and (ii) the addition (100 nM) or omission of melatonin, during IVM. Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were retrieved from stimulated cycles. Following IVM and IVF, putative zygotes were cultured to Day 8 in standard media. RNAseq was performed on isolated cumulus cells, cytogenetic analyses (SNP-based algorithms) on isolated trophectoderm cells, and DNA methylation analysis (reduced representation bisulfite sequencing) on isolated cells of the inner-cell mass. Results Removal of CP during IVM led to modest reductions in blastocyst development, whilst added melatonin was beneficial in the presence but detrimental in the absence of CP. The composition of IVM media did not affect the nature or incidence of chromosomal abnormalities but cumulus-cell transcript expression indicated altered metabolism (primarily lipid) in COCs. These effects preceded the establishment of distinct metabolic and epigenetic signatures several days later in expanded and hatching blastocysts. Conclusions These findings highlight the importance of lipid, particularly sterol, metabolism by the COC during IVM. They lay the foundation for future studies that seek to develop chemically defined systems of IVM for the generation of transferrable embryos that are both cytogenetically and epigenetically normal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desmond A. R. Tutt
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, United Kingdom
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, United Kingdom
| | - Gizem Guven-Ates
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, United Kingdom
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, United Kingdom
| | - Wing Yee Kwong
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, United Kingdom
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, United Kingdom
| | - Rob Simmons
- Paragon Veterinary Group, Carlisle, United Kingdom
| | - Fei Sang
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Alan H. Handyside
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
| | | | - Marc-André Sirard
- CRDSI, Département des Sciences Animales, Faculté des sciences de l’agriculture et de l’alimentation, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Richard D. Emes
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, United Kingdom
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, United Kingdom
| | - Darren K. Griffin
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin D. Sinclair
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, United Kingdom
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, United Kingdom
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Akimoto Y, Fujii W, Naito K, Sugiura K. The effect of ACVR1B/TGFBR1/ACVR1C signaling inhibition on oocyte and granulosa cell development during in vitro growth culture. J Reprod Dev 2023; 69:270-278. [PMID: 37722883 PMCID: PMC10602769 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2023-041] [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: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The signals of the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily play a critical role in follicular development in mammals. ACVR1B/TGFBR1/ACVR1C receptors mediate the signaling of several TGF-β superfamily ligands in granulosa cells. Although the requirement for ACVR1B/TGFBR1/ACVR1C receptor signaling in follicular development has been confirmed using mutant mouse models, the detailed roles of the signaling in granulosa cell and oocyte development have not been clearly defined. In the present study, we examined the requirement for ACVR1B/TGFBR1/ACVR1C receptor signaling in granulosa cells using an in vitro growth culture of oocyte-granulosa cell complexes (OGCs) and SB431542, a potent inhibitor of the receptor signaling. Although cumulus-oocyte complexes isolated from the control OGCs were able to undergo cumulus expansion, those isolated from OGCs grown with the inhibitor were not competent, even in the presence of in vivo-grown oocytes. The diameter of the oocytes in the SB431542-treated OGCs was comparable with that of the control; however, these oocytes were not competent for complete meiotic maturation or preimplantation development. Therefore, ACVR1B/TGFBR1/ACVR1C receptor signaling is not required for oocytes to increase their volume but is essential for the normal development of cumulus cells and oocyte developmental competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Akimoto
- Laboratory of Applied Genetics, Department of Animal Resource Sciences, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Wataru Fujii
- Laboratory of Applied Genetics, Department of Animal Resource Sciences, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
- Present: Department of Veterinary Medical Science, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Kunihiko Naito
- Laboratory of Applied Genetics, Department of Animal Resource Sciences, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Koji Sugiura
- Laboratory of Applied Genetics, Department of Animal Resource Sciences, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
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Akin N, Ates G, von Mengden L, Herta AC, Meriggioli C, Billooye K, Stocker WA, Ghesquiere B, Harrison CA, Cools W, Klamt F, Massie A, Smitz J, Anckaert E. Effects of lactate, super-GDF9, and low oxygen tension during bi-phasic in vitro maturation on the bioenergetic profiles of mouse cumulus-oocyte complex†. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:432-449. [PMID: 37531262 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In vitro maturation (IVM) is an alternative assisted reproductive technology with reduced hormone-related side effects and treatment burden compared to conventional IVF. Capacitation (CAPA)-IVM is a bi-phasic IVM system with improved clinical outcomes compared to standard monophasic IVM. Yet, CAPA-IVM efficiency compared to conventional IVF is still suboptimal in terms of producing utilizable blastocysts. Previously, we have shown that CAPA-IVM leads to a precocious increase in cumulus cell (CC) glycolytic activity during cytoplasmic maturation. In the current study, considering the fundamental importance of CCs for oocyte maturation and cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) microenvironment, we further analyzed the bioenergetic profiles of maturing CAPA-IVM COCs. Through a multi-step approach, we (i) explored mitochondrial function of the in vivo and CAPA-IVM matured COCs through real-time metabolic analysis with Seahorse analyzer, and to improve COC metabolism (ii) supplemented the culture media with lactate and/or super-GDF9 (an engineered form of growth differentiation factor 9) and (iii) reduced culture oxygen tension. Our results indicated that the pre-IVM step is delicate and prone to culture-related disruptions. Lactate and/or super-GDF9 supplementations failed to eliminate pre-IVM-induced stress on COC glucose metabolism and mitochondrial respiration. However, when performing pre-IVM culture under 5% oxygen tension, CAPA-IVM COCs showed similar bioenergetic profiles compared to in vivo matured counterparts. This is the first study providing real-time metabolic analysis of the COCs from a bi-phasic IVM system. The currently used analytical approach provides the quantitative measures and the rational basis to further improve IVM culture requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazli Akin
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Gamze Ates
- Laboratory of Neuro-Aging and Viro-Immunotherapy, Center for Neurosciences (C4N), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lucia von Mengden
- Laboratory of Cellular Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, ICBS, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - Cecilia Meriggioli
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Katy Billooye
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - William A Stocker
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Brecht Ghesquiere
- Research Group Reproduction and Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Craig A Harrison
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Wilfried Cools
- Support for Quantitative and Qualitative Research (SQUARE) Core Facility, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Fabio Klamt
- Laboratory of Cellular Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry, ICBS, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Ann Massie
- Laboratory of Neuro-Aging and Viro-Immunotherapy, Center for Neurosciences (C4N), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Johan Smitz
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ellen Anckaert
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
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Telfer EE, Grosbois J, Odey YL, Rosario R, Anderson RA. Making a good egg: human oocyte health, aging, and in vitro development. Physiol Rev 2023; 103:2623-2677. [PMID: 37171807 PMCID: PMC10625843 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00032.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian eggs (oocytes) are formed during fetal life and establish associations with somatic cells to form primordial follicles that create a store of germ cells (the primordial pool). The size of this pool is influenced by key events during the formation of germ cells and by factors that influence the subsequent activation of follicle growth. These regulatory pathways must ensure that the reserve of oocytes within primordial follicles in humans lasts for up to 50 years, yet only approximately 0.1% will ever be ovulated with the rest undergoing degeneration. This review outlines the mechanisms and regulatory pathways that govern the processes of oocyte and follicle formation and later growth, within the ovarian stroma, through to ovulation with particular reference to human oocytes/follicles. In addition, the effects of aging on female reproductive capacity through changes in oocyte number and quality are emphasized, with both the cellular mechanisms and clinical implications discussed. Finally, the details of current developments in culture systems that support all stages of follicle growth to generate mature oocytes in vitro and emerging prospects for making new oocytes from stem cells are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn E Telfer
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Johanne Grosbois
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Yvonne L Odey
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Roseanne Rosario
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Shani AK, Haham LM, Balakier H, Kuznyetsova I, Bashar S, Day EN, Librach CL. The developmental potential of mature oocytes derived from rescue in vitro maturation. Fertil Steril 2023; 120:860-869. [PMID: 37257719 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.05.163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the developmental competence of immature oocytes in stimulated cycles, that matured after rescue in vitro maturation (IVM) compared with their sibling in vivo matured oocytes. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING IVF clinic. PATIENTS A total of 182 patients underwent 200 controlled ovarian stimulation cycles with intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles in which immature oocytes were retrieved and at least one mature oocyte was obtained through rescue IVM. INTERVENTION In vitro culture of immature germinal vesicle (GV) and metaphase I (MI) oocytes, retrieved in stimulated cycles. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Fertilization rate, cleavage rate, blastulation rate, ploidy of embryos evaluated using preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy, morphokinetic parameters and pregnancy outcomes. RESULTS In total, 2,288 oocytes were retrieved from 200 cycles. After denudation, 1,056 of the oocytes (46% ± 16%) were classified as metaphase II (MII). A total of 333/375 (89%) of MI oocytes and 292/540 (54%) of GV oocytes matured overnight and underwent intracytoplasmic sperm injection. The fertilization rates of matured oocytes from MI rescue IVM (R-MI) and from GV rescue IVM (R-GV) were comparable with those of their sibling MII oocytes (71% vs. 66%; 66% vs. 63%, respectively). Early cleavage rates (80% ± 35% vs. 92% ± 20%; 80% ± 42% vs. 95% ± 28%, respectively) and blastulation rates (32 ± 40% vs. 62 ± 33%; 24 ± 37% vs. 60 ± 35%, respectively) were significantly decreased in rescue IVM matured oocytes (R-oocytes)-derived zygotes, but the blastocyst (BL) euploidy rate and "good quality" BL rate were comparable with those of MII sibling-derived embryos. In addition, rescue IVM embryos showed significantly higher levels of multinucleation at the 2- and 4-cell stages, as well as higher rates of zygote direct cleavage from one to 3 to 4 cells. Overall, 21 transfers of rescue IVM embryos resulted in 3 healthy live births. CONCLUSIONS For patients with a low maturation rate and/or low numbers of mature oocytes at retrieval, rescue IVM may contribute more competent oocytes and additional viable BLs for transfer from the same stimulation cycle, maximizing the chances for pregnancy and live birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adi Kuperman Shani
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lilach Marom Haham
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Iryna Kuznyetsova
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Laboratory of Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Erin N Day
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Clifford L Librach
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Laboratory of Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Wang Y, Qi JJ, Yin YJ, Jiang H, Zhang JB, Liang S, Yuan B. Ferulic Acid Enhances Oocyte Maturation and the Subsequent Development of Bovine Oocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14804. [PMID: 37834252 PMCID: PMC10573426 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914804] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Improving the quality of oocytes matured in vitro is integral to enhancing the efficacy of in vitro embryo production. Oxidative stress is one of the primary causes of quality decline in oocytes matured in vitro. In this study, ferulic acid (FA), a natural antioxidant found in plant cell walls, was investigated to evaluate its impact on bovine oocyte maturation and subsequent embryonic development. Bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were treated with different concentrations of FA (0, 2.5, 5, 10, 20 μM) during in vitro maturation (IVM). Compared to the control group, supplementation with 5 μM FA significantly enhanced the maturation rates of bovine oocytes and the expansion of the cumulus cells area, as well as the subsequent cleavage and blastocyst formation rates after in vitro fertilization (IVF) and somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). Furthermore, FA supplementation was observed to effectively decrease the levels of ROS in bovine oocytes and improve their mitochondrial function. Our experiments demonstrate that FA can maintain the levels of antioxidants (GSH, SOD, CAT) in oocytes, thereby alleviating the oxidative stress induced by H2O2. RT-qPCR results revealed that, after FA treatment, the relative mRNA expression levels of genes related to oocyte maturation (GDF-9 and BMP-15), cumulus cell expansion (HAS2, PTX3, CX37, and CX43), and embryo pluripotency (OCT4, SOX2, and CDX2) were significantly increased. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate that FA supplementation during bovine oocyte IVM can enhance oocyte quality and the developmental potential of subsequent embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Shuang Liang
- Department of Animals Sciences, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China; (Y.W.); (J.-J.Q.); (Y.-J.Y.); (H.J.); (J.-B.Z.)
| | - Bao Yuan
- Department of Animals Sciences, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China; (Y.W.); (J.-J.Q.); (Y.-J.Y.); (H.J.); (J.-B.Z.)
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Chen N, Zhang Y, Tian Y, Wu S, Gao F, Yuan X. Deciphering Cellular Heterogeneity and Communication Patterns in Porcine Antral Follicles by Single-Cell RNA Sequencing. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3019. [PMID: 37835625 PMCID: PMC10571650 DOI: 10.3390/ani13193019] [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: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The antral follicle stage is a critical period in mammalian oocyte maturation, marked by complex interactions between oocyte development and neighboring granulosa cells. Understanding the heterogeneity and communication patterns of granulosa cells within antral follicles is crucial for deciphering their roles in follicle development and oocyte maturation. Here, we employed single-cell RNA-sequencing to explore the molecular and cellular characteristics of porcine antral follicles. Our analysis revealed distinct subpopulations within mural and cumulus granulosa cells, indicating diverse cellular states and functions within the follicles. Functional enrichment analysis unveiled the involvement of specific subpopulations in steroid biosynthesis, cumulus expansion, and cellular communication. Moreover, comparing mature and less mature follicles highlighted differences in cell distribution and functions, indicating developmental-specific variations. Our findings shed light on the intricate cellular heterogeneity and communication network within porcine antral follicles, providing valuable insights into the regulation of follicle development and oocyte maturation in pigs. These results hold promise for improving pig reproductive efficiency and advancing human reproductive medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Chen
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Yuhan Tian
- Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, State Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Breeding, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Shumei Wu
- Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, State Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Breeding, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Fei Gao
- Shenzhen Branch, Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Genome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of Agriculture, Agricultural Genomics Institute at Shenzhen, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shenzhen 518000, China
- Comparative Pediatrics and Nutrition, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Xiaolong Yuan
- Guangdong Laboratory of Lingnan Modern Agriculture, National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, State Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Breeding, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510000, China
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Catandi GD, Bresnahan DR, Peters SO, Fresa KJ, Maclellan LJ, Broeckling CD, Carnevale EM. Equine maternal aging affects the metabolomic profile of oocytes and follicular cells during different maturation time points. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1239154. [PMID: 37818125 PMCID: PMC10561129 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1239154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Oocyte quality and fertility decline with advanced maternal age. During maturation within the ovarian follicle, the oocyte relies on the associated somatic cells, specifically cumulus and granulosa cells, to acquire essential components for developmental capacity. Methods: A nontargeted metabolomics approach was used to investigate the effects of mare age on different cell types within the dominant, follicular-phase follicle at three time points during maturation. Metabolomic analyses from single oocytes and associated cumulus and granulosa cells allowed correlations of metabolite abundance among cell types. Results and Discussion: Overall, many of the age-related changes in metabolite abundance point to Impaired mitochondrial metabolic function and oxidative stress in oocytes and follicular cells. Supporting findings include a higher abundance of glutamic acid and triglycerides and lower abundance of ceramides in oocytes and somatic follicular cells from old than young mares. Lower abundance of alanine in all follicular cell types from old mares, suggests limited anaerobic energy metabolism. The results also indicate impaired transfer of carbohydrate and free fatty acid substrates from cumulus cells to the oocytes of old mares, potentially related to disruption of transzonal projections between the cell types. The identification of age-associated alterations in the abundance of specific metabolites and their correlations among cells contribute to our understanding of follicular dysfunction with maternal aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. D. Catandi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - D. R. Bresnahan
- Department of Animal Sciences, Berry College, Mount Berry, GA, United States
| | - S. O. Peters
- Department of Animal Sciences, Berry College, Mount Berry, GA, United States
| | - K. J. Fresa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - L. J. Maclellan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - C. D. Broeckling
- Proteomic and Metabolomics Core Facility, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
| | - E. M. Carnevale
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, United States
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Hu LL, Chen S, Shen MY, Huang QY, Li HG, Sun SC, Wang JL, Luo XQ. Aflatoxin B1 impairs porcine oocyte quality via disturbing intracellular membrane system and ATP production. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 263:115213. [PMID: 37421895 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
Aflatoxin is the most common type of mycotoxins in contaminated corn, peanuts and rice, which affects the livestock and ultimately endangers human health. Aflatoxin is reported to have carcinogenicity, mutation, growth retardation, immunosuppression and reproductive toxicity. In present study we reported the causes for the declined porcine oocyte quality under aflatoxin exposure. We set up an in vitro exposure model and showed that aflatoxin B1 disturbed cumulus cell expansion and oocyte polar body extrusion. We found that aflatoxin B1 exposure disrupted ER distribution and elevated the expression of GRP78, indicating the occurrence of ER stress, and the increased calcium storage also confirmed this. Besides, the structure of cis-Golgi apparatus, another intracellular membrane system was also affected, showing with decreased GM130 expression. The oocytes under aflatoxin B1 exposure showed aberrant lysosome accumulation and higher LAMP2 expression, a marker for lysosome membrane protection, and this might be due to the aberrant mitochondria function with low ATP production and the increase of apoptosis, since we found that BAX expression increased, and ribosomal protein which is also an apoptosis-related factor RPS3 decreased. Taken together, our study revealed that aflatoxin B1 impairs intracellular membrane system ER, Golgi apparatus, lysosome and mitochondria function to affect porcine oocyte maturation quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin-Lin Hu
- Reproductive Medicine, Guangxi Medical and Health Key Discipline Construction Project, The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise 533000, China
| | - Shun Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Meng-Ying Shen
- Reproductive Medicine, Guangxi Medical and Health Key Discipline Construction Project, The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise 533000, China
| | - Qiu-Yan Huang
- Reproductive Medicine, Guangxi Medical and Health Key Discipline Construction Project, The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise 533000, China
| | - Hong-Ge Li
- Reproductive Medicine, Guangxi Medical and Health Key Discipline Construction Project, The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise 533000, China; College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Shao-Chen Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
| | - Jun-Li Wang
- Reproductive Medicine, Guangxi Medical and Health Key Discipline Construction Project, The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise 533000, China; Industrial College of Biomedicine and Health Industry, Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, Guangxi 533000, China.
| | - Xiao-Qiong Luo
- Reproductive Medicine, Guangxi Medical and Health Key Discipline Construction Project, The Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise 533000, China.
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Zhou J, Mo H, Feng Q, Li L, La J. ApoC3 is expressed in oocytes and increased expression is associated with PCOS progression. J Ovarian Res 2023; 16:188. [PMID: 37689737 PMCID: PMC10493025 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-023-01263-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a lifelong metabolic disorder and the most common cause of anovulatory infertility affecting women in reproductive age. Our recent study reported that apolipoprotein C3 (ApoC3) could be a potential diagnostic serum marker for metabolism disturbance in PCOS patients, but whether it is present in the ovaries and what role it plays has not yet been described. OBJECTIVE Aimed to investigate ApoC3 expression in ovary of PCOS, and to discuss its potential role in PCOS progression. METHODS ApoC3 expression in ovarian tissue samples from 12 PCOS patients along with 12 healthy controls were measured via immunohistochemistry (IHC). Also, the level of ApoC3 in follicular fluid from 14 patients diagnosed with PCOS and 13 control subjects were detected by ELISA. The expression and location of ApoC3 in ovaries of PCOS mice were tested weekly for three consecutive weeks during PCOS formation using real time PCR, Western Blot, IHC and immunofluorescence. The relation of ApoC3 and sex hormones was analyzed in mouse plasma. Additionally, the dynamic changes of ApoC3 level in ovaries of healthy mice during postnatal development was also investigated. RESULTS ApoC3 levels in ovarian tissue and follicular fluid were significantly higher in PCOS patients than in controls (33.87 ± 4.11 vs. 27.71 ± 3.65, P < 0.01; 0.87 ± 0.09 vs. 0.51 ± 0.32 ng/mL, P < 0.05), respectively. In ovary, ApoC3 was found to be located in the cytoplasm of oocyte, and its expression gradually increased with PCOS progression (P < 0.05). Furthermore, correlation analysis showed that plasma ApoC3 level was closely associated with luteinizing hormone (r = 0.709, P = 0.001), testosterone (r = 0.627, P = 0.005) and anti-mullerian hormone (r = 0.680, P = 0.002) in PCOS mice. In addition, ApoC3 level in oocyte was physiologically increased and peaked on postnatal age 21 (P21), then decreased following P21 in healthy mice. CONCLUSIONS We identified ApoC3 expression in oocyte. It may be involved in PCOS progression and possibly participate in the regulation of oocyte development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiahe Zhou
- Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, 511442, China
- Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Hui Mo
- Faculty of Chinese Medicines, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macao, 000853, China
| | - Qian Feng
- International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| | - Li Li
- Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, 511442, China.
- Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, China.
| | - Jiahui La
- International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
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Lu X, Lv X, Dong X, Li Y, Turathum B, Liu S, Wang X, Shi H, Liu Y. Increased serine synthesis in cumulus cells of young infertile women with diminished ovarian reserve. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:1723-1732. [PMID: 37533289 PMCID: PMC10477940 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead155] [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: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What are the differences in gene expression of cumulus cells (CCs) between young women with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) and those of similar age with normal ovarian reserve (NOR)? SUMMARY ANSWER Gene expression and metabolome profiling analysis demonstrate that the de novo serine synthesis pathway (SSP) is increased in the CCs of young women with DOR. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The incidence of DOR has risen, tending to present at younger ages. Its mechanisms and aetiologies are still poorly understood. Abnormal metabolism is present in luteinized CCs of patients with DOR. Previous studies have revealed that mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired oxidative phosphorylation in CCs are related to DOR in women of advanced age. The pathogenic mechanisms likely differ between young women with DOR and cases associated with advanced maternal age. Several studies have examined amino acid metabolism in the follicle, with a focus on embryo development, but less information is available about CCs. The physiological significance of de novo serine synthesis in follicles and oocytes remains largely unknown. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION CC samples were obtained from 107 young infertile women (age <38 years) undergoing ICSI, from July 2017 to June 2019, including 54 patients with DOR and 53 patients with NOR. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Oocyte development data were analysed retrospectively. Comprehensive genome-wide transcriptomics of CCs was performed. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were performed to categorize the functions of the DEGs and identify significantly enriched pathways. The transcript and protein levels of key enzymes involved in serine synthesis were verified in additional samples using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) (n = 10) and capillary western blotting (n = 36). Targeted metabolomics of amino acids in CC extracts was performed by ultrahigh-performance liquid MS (UHPLC-MS/MS). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The number of oocytes (2.4 ± 2.2 versus 12.1 ± 5.3) and metaphase II oocytes (2.1 ± 2.0 versus 9.9 ± 4.9) retrieved was significantly decreased in the DOR versus the NOR group, respectively (P < 0.0001). The rates of fertilization (80.7% versus 78.8%), viable embryos (73.7% versus 72.5%), and high-quality embryos (42.8% versus 49.0%) did not differ between the DOR and NOR groups, respectively (P > 0.05). A total of 95 DEGs were found by transcriptome sequencing. GO and KEGG analyses demonstrated that the DEGs were linked to amino acid metabolism and suggested significantly higher activity of the de novo SSP in the CCs of young women with DOR. Further qRT-PCR and capillary western blotting revealed that key enzymes (PHGDH, PSAT1, PSPH, and SHMT2) involved in de novo serine synthesis were upregulated, and UHPLC-MS/MS analysis showed increases in serine and glycine (a downstream product of serine) levels in the CCs of young patients with DOR. Our data clearly demonstrate that the de novo SSP, which diverts 3-phosphoglycerate from glycolysis to serine synthesis, was upregulated in young DOR CCs. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Regarding the reproductive capacity of young patients DOR, the pregnancy outcomes were not analysed. The sample size was limited, and only women undergoing ICSI were examined since this was a prerequisite for the acquisition of CCs, which may cause selection bias. The exact mechanisms by which the SSP in CCs regulates ovarian reserve still require further study. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our research presents new evidence that alterations of the SSP in CCs of young infertile women are associated with DOR. We believe this is a significant contribution to the field, which should be key for understanding the cause and mechanisms of ovarian hypofunction in young women. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by grants from the Ministry of Science and Technology of China (2018YFC1005001) and National Natural Science Foundation of China (31601197). There were no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinmei Lu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Pharmacy School, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaolong Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi Dong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Pharmacy School, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yulin Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bongkoch Turathum
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Vajira Hospital, Navamindradhiraj University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Suying Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Pharmacy School, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuemei Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Pharmacy School, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huijuan Shi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Pharmacy School, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yubing Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Patil K, Naigaonkar A, Hinduja I, Mukherjee S. Transcriptomic profile of GLCs of PCOS women highlights metabolic dysregulation as a plausible contributor to PCOS pathophysiology. Reprod Biol 2023; 23:100787. [PMID: 37467532 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2023.100787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex heterogeneous disorder with reproductive and metabolic consequences whose aetiology is still elusive. To understand the cellular mechanisms that potentially govern follicular defect in women with PCOS, we performed transcriptomic profiles of granulosa-lutein cells (GLCs) by RNA-Seq analysis. We found differential expression of 876 genes in GLCs between PCOS and controls that belonged to various processes such as cell cycle, extracellular matrix organization, angiogenesis, oxidative stress, metabolism, etc. that support folliculogenesis, oocyte development, and maturation. The cross-talk between oocyte and GLCs is a fundamental cornerstone in determining oocyte quality and highly interlinked pathways of metabolism and redox homeostasis may influence this. We found several genes involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, nucleotides, cholesterol, and lipids were dysregulated, which may impair the supply of metabolites to the growing oocyte, affecting oocyte development and competence. Additionally, high metabolic activity during folliculogenesis may augment oxidative damage to cells and macromolecules if not counter-balanced. We observed dysregulation of redox homeostasis and AGE-RAGE signalling in the follicular environment. Among the validated genes, prokineticin-1 and growth differentiation factor-15 were found to be negatively regulated, while, S100, calcium-binding protein A9 and angiomotin-like-2 were positively regulated in GLCs of women with PCOS. Comparing our data with previously published relevant transcriptomic studies showed metabolic, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, IL-17, and chemokine signalling pathways were most commonly affected in PCOS. Overall, this data can provide insights into mechanisms contributing to PCOS pathophysiology and can be explored as potential indicators for oocyte/embryo quality in IVF settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krutika Patil
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, J.M. Street, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - Aalaap Naigaonkar
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, J.M. Street, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - Indira Hinduja
- P. D. Hinduja National Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Mahim, Mumbai 400016, India
| | - Srabani Mukherjee
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, J.M. Street, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India.
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