1
|
Jones ASK, Hannum DF, Machlin JH, Tan A, Ma Q, Ulrich ND, Shen YC, Ciarelli M, Padmanabhan V, Marsh EE, Hammoud S, Li JZ, Shikanov A. Cellular atlas of the human ovary using morphologically guided spatial transcriptomics and single-cell sequencing. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadm7506. [PMID: 38578993 PMCID: PMC10997207 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adm7506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
The reproductive and endocrine functions of the ovary involve spatially defined interactions among specialized cell populations. Despite the ovary's importance in fertility and endocrine health, functional attributes of ovarian cells are largely uncharacterized. Here, we profiled >18,000 genes in 257 regions from the ovaries of two premenopausal donors to examine the functional units in the ovary. We also generated single-cell RNA sequencing data for 21,198 cells from three additional donors and identified four major cell types and four immune cell subtypes. Custom selection of sampling areas revealed distinct gene activities for oocytes, theca, and granulosa cells. These data contributed panels of oocyte-, theca-, and granulosa-specific genes, thus expanding the knowledge of molecular programs driving follicle development. Serial samples around oocytes and across the cortex and medulla uncovered previously unappreciated variation of hormone and extracellular matrix remodeling activities. This combined spatial and single-cell atlas serves as a resource for future studies of rare cells and pathological states in the ovary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea S. K. Jones
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - D. Ford Hannum
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jordan H. Machlin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Ansen Tan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Qianyi Ma
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Nicole D. Ulrich
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Yu-chi Shen
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Maria Ciarelli
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Erica E. Marsh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sue Hammoud
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jun Z. Li
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Ariella Shikanov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Does Pten have an impact on oogenesis of PCOS mouse models? ZYGOTE 2023; 31:97-100. [PMID: 36533329 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199422000661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex disorder in which the aetiology is still not explained very well. The PI3K/PTEN (phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10) pathway is an important pathway that is involved in many mechanisms, including proliferation, growth and motility. PTEN plays a role in granulosa cell proliferation and regulates the differentiation process. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression levels of Pten and Pik3ca in PCOS mouse models with and without any treatment procedures. Three groups of mouse models, PCOS, a PCOS group with clomiphene citrate treatment, and a PCOS group with the combination of clomiphene citrate, metformin and pioglitazone treatment, were established. Ovarian tissues, which were obtained from these groups and a control group with no PCOS, were embedded in paraffin and RNA was extracted. cDNA was synthesized and real-time PCR was conducted to evaluate the expression levels of Pten and Pik3ca. The results of this study showed that both Pten and Pik3ca genes were expressed in the ovarian tissues from the mouse models. Although one-way analysis of variance results showed that Pten was expressed significantly differently in the samples, individual Student's t-tests did not show any significantly different expression levels in each group. This study is important as it shows the expression patterns of two genes in PCOS mouse models with different treatment strategies, including clomiphene citrate, metformin and pioglitazone. The results of this study formed the basis of research studies and investigations into different genes within the PTEN pathway, as well as other pathways that are under investigation.
Collapse
|
3
|
Guo SM, Liu XP, Tian Q, Fei CF, Zhang YR, Li ZM, Yin Y, He X, Zhou LQ. Regulatory roles of alternative splicing at Ezh2 gene in mouse oocytes. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:99. [PMID: 35791029 PMCID: PMC9254527 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00962-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Enhancer of zeste homologue 2 (EZH2), the core member of polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2), has multiple splicing modes and performs various physiological functions. However, function and mechanism of alternative splicing at Ezh2 exon 3 in reproduction are unknown. METHODS We generated Ezh2Long and Ezh2Short mouse models with different point mutations at the Ezh2 exon 3 alternative splicing site, and each mutant mouse model expressed either the long or the short isoform of Ezh2. We examined mutant mouse fertility and oocyte development to assess the function of Ezh2 alternative splicing at exon 3 in the reproductive system. RESULTS We found that Ezh2Long female mice had normal fertility. However, Ezh2Short female mice had significantly decreased fertility and obstructed oogenesis, with compromised mitochondrial function in Ezh2Short oocytes. Interestingly, increased EZH2 protein abundance and accumulated H3K27me3 were observed in Ezh2Short oocytes. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate that correct Ezh2 alternative splicing at exon 3 is important for mouse oogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Meng Guo
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xing-Ping Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Qing Tian
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Cai-Feng Fei
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yi-Ran Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhi-Ming Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Ying Yin
- School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Ximiao He
- School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Li-Quan Zhou
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Alves AAC, da Costa RM, Fonseca LFS, Carvalheiro R, Ventura RV, Rosa GJDM, Albuquerque LG. A Random Forest-Based Genome-Wide Scan Reveals Fertility-Related Candidate Genes and Potential Inter-Chromosomal Epistatic Regions Associated With Age at First Calving in Nellore Cattle. Front Genet 2022; 13:834724. [PMID: 35692843 PMCID: PMC9178659 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.834724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to perform a genome-wide association analysis (GWAS) using the Random Forest (RF) approach for scanning candidate genes for age at first calving (AFC) in Nellore cattle. Additionally, potential epistatic effects were investigated using linear mixed models with pairwise interactions between all markers with high importance scores within the tree ensemble non-linear structure. Data from Nellore cattle were used, including records of animals born between 1984 and 2015 and raised in commercial herds located in different regions of Brazil. The estimated breeding values (EBV) were computed and used as the response variable in the genomic analyses. After quality control, the remaining number of animals and SNPs considered were 3,174 and 360,130, respectively. Five independent RF analyses were carried out, considering different initialization seeds. The importance score of each SNP was averaged across the independent RF analyses to rank the markers according to their predictive relevance. A total of 117 SNPs associated with AFC were identified, which spanned 10 autosomes (2, 3, 5, 10, 11, 17, 18, 21, 24, and 25). In total, 23 non-overlapping genomic regions embedded 262 candidate genes for AFC. Enrichment analysis and previous evidence in the literature revealed that many candidate genes annotated close to the lead SNPs have key roles in fertility, including embryo pre-implantation and development, embryonic viability, male germinal cell maturation, and pheromone recognition. Furthermore, some genomic regions previously associated with fertility and growth traits in Nellore cattle were also detected in the present study, reinforcing the effectiveness of RF for pre-screening candidate regions associated with complex traits. Complementary analyses revealed that many SNPs top-ranked in the RF-based GWAS did not present a strong marginal linear effect but are potentially involved in epistatic hotspots between genomic regions in different autosomes, remarkably in the BTAs 3, 5, 11, and 21. The reported results are expected to enhance the understanding of genetic mechanisms involved in the biological regulation of AFC in this cattle breed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anderson Antonio Carvalho Alves
- Department of Animal Science, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Rebeka Magalhães da Costa
- Department of Animal Science, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Larissa Fernanda Simielli Fonseca
- Department of Animal Science, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, Brazil
| | - Roberto Carvalheiro
- Department of Animal Science, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, Brazil.,National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq), Brasília, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Vieira Ventura
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Production, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | | | - Lucia Galvão Albuquerque
- Department of Animal Science, School of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, Brazil.,National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq), Brasília, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Chen SY, Schenkel FS, Melo ALP, Oliveira HR, Pedrosa VB, Araujo AC, Melka MG, Brito LF. Identifying pleiotropic variants and candidate genes for fertility and reproduction traits in Holstein cattle via association studies based on imputed whole-genome sequence genotypes. BMC Genomics 2022; 23:331. [PMID: 35484513 PMCID: PMC9052698 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-022-08555-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Genetic progress for fertility and reproduction traits in dairy cattle has been limited due to the low heritability of most indicator traits. Moreover, most of the quantitative trait loci (QTL) and candidate genes associated with these traits remain unknown. In this study, we used 5.6 million imputed DNA sequence variants (single nucleotide polymorphisms, SNPs) for genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of 18 fertility and reproduction traits in Holstein cattle. Aiming to identify pleiotropic variants and increase detection power, multiple-trait analyses were performed using a method to efficiently combine the estimated SNP effects of single-trait GWAS based on a chi-square statistic. Results There were 87, 72, and 84 significant SNPs identified for heifer, cow, and sire traits, respectively, which showed a wide and distinct distribution across the genome, suggesting that they have relatively distinct polygenic nature. The biological functions of immune response and fatty acid metabolism were significantly enriched for the 184 and 124 positional candidate genes identified for heifer and cow traits, respectively. No known biological function was significantly enriched for the 147 positional candidate genes found for sire traits. The most important chromosomes that had three or more significant QTL identified are BTA22 and BTA23 for heifer traits, BTA8 and BTA17 for cow traits, and BTA4, BTA7, BTA17, BTA22, BTA25, and BTA28 for sire traits. Several novel and biologically important positional candidate genes were strongly suggested for heifer (SOD2, WTAP, DLEC1, PFKFB4, TRIM27, HECW1, DNAH17, and ADAM3A), cow (ANXA1, PCSK5, SPESP1, and JMJD1C), and sire (ELMO1, CFAP70, SOX30, DGCR8, SEPTIN14, PAPOLB, JMJD1C, and NELL2) traits. Conclusions These findings contribute to better understand the underlying biological mechanisms of fertility and reproduction traits measured in heifers, cows, and sires, which may contribute to improve genomic evaluation for these traits in dairy cattle. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-022-08555-z.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Yi Chen
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, 270 S. Russell Street, West Lafayette, IN, 47907-2041, USA.,Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, Sichuan, China
| | - Flavio S Schenkel
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Ana L P Melo
- Department of Reproduction and Animal Evaluation, Rural Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ, 23897-000, Brazil
| | - Hinayah R Oliveira
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, 270 S. Russell Street, West Lafayette, IN, 47907-2041, USA.,Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Victor B Pedrosa
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, 270 S. Russell Street, West Lafayette, IN, 47907-2041, USA.,Department of Animal Sciences, State University of Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa, PR, 84030-900, Brazil
| | - Andre C Araujo
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, 270 S. Russell Street, West Lafayette, IN, 47907-2041, USA
| | - Melkaye G Melka
- Department of Animal and Food Science, University of Wisconsin River Falls, River Falls, WI, 54022, USA
| | - Luiz F Brito
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, 270 S. Russell Street, West Lafayette, IN, 47907-2041, USA. .,Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hatırnaz Ş, Hatırnaz ES, Ellibeş Kaya A, Hatırnaz K, Soyer Çalışkan C, Sezer Ö, Dokuzeylül Güngor N, Demirel C, Baltacı V, Tan S, Dahan M. Oocyte maturation abnormalities - A systematic review of the evidence and mechanisms in a rare but difficult to manage fertility pheneomina. Turk J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 19:60-80. [PMID: 35343221 PMCID: PMC8966321 DOI: 10.4274/tjod.galenos.2022.76329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A small proportion of infertile women experience repeated oocyte maturation abnormalities (OMAS). OMAS include degenerated and dysmorphic oocytes, empty follicle syndrome, oocyte maturation arrest (OMA), resistant ovary syndrome and maturation defects due to primary ovarian insufficiency. Genetic factors play an important role in OMAS but still need specifications. This review documents the spectrum of OMAS and to evaluate the multiple subtypes classified as OMAS. In this review, readers will be able to understand the oocyte maturation mechanism, gene expression and their regulation that lead to different subtypes of OMAs, and it will discuss the animal and human studies related to OMAS and lastly the treatment options for OMAs. Literature searches using PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, National Institute for Health and Care Excellence were performed to identify articles written in English focusing on Oocyte Maturation Abnormalities by looking for the following relevant keywords. A search was made with the specified keywords and included books and documents, clinical trials, animal studies, human studies, meta-analysis, randomized controlled trials, reviews, systematic reviews and options written in english. The search detected 3,953 sources published from 1961 to 2021. After title and abstract screening for study type, duplicates and relevancy, 2,914 studies were excluded. The remaining 1,039 records were assessed for eligibility by full-text reading and 886 records were then excluded. Two hundred and twenty seven full-text articles and 0 book chapters from the database were selected for inclusion. Overall, 227 articles, one unpublished and one abstract paper were included in this final review. In this review study, OMAS were classified and extensively evaluatedand possible treatment options under the light of current information, present literature and ongoing studies. Either genetic studies or in vitro maturation studies that will be handled in the future will lead more informations to be reached and may make it possible to obtain pregnancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Şafak Hatırnaz
- Medicana Samsun International Hospital, In Vitro Fertilization-In Vitro Maturation Unit, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Ebru Saynur Hatırnaz
- Medicana Samsun International Hospital, In Vitro Fertilization-In Vitro Maturation Unit, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Aşkı Ellibeş Kaya
- Private Office, Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Kaan Hatırnaz
- Ondokuz Mayıs University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Canan Soyer Çalışkan
- University of Health Sciences Turkey, Samsun Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Özlem Sezer
- University of Health Sciences Turkey, Samsun Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Genetics, Samsun, Turkey
| | | | - Cem Demirel
- Memorial Ataşehir Hospital, In Vitro Fertilization Unit, İstanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Seang Tan
- James Edmund Dodds Chair in ObGyn, Department of ObGyn, McGill University, OriginElle Fertility Clinic and Women, QC, Canada
| | - Michael Dahan
- McGill Reproductive Centre, Department of ObGyn, McGill University Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Molecular regulation of polycystic ovary syndrome: altered gene expression levels in mouse models pretreatment and post-treatment. ZYGOTE 2021; 30:352-357. [PMID: 34727997 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199421000769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex disorder and genetic factors are believed to play a role. The main aim was to investigate expression levels of genes involved in PI3K/AKT signalling pathway pretreatment and post-treatment. Mouse models of PCOS were generated. Group one included control mice with no polycystic ovaries (n = 4), Group 2 included a PCOS mouse model (n = 8), Group 3 included PCOS mice treated with clomiphene citrate (n = 7) and Group 4 included PCOS mice treated with clomiphene citrate, metformin and pioglitazone (n = 8). Histochemical analyses were performed. Total RNA was extracted and cDNA was synthesized. Irs, Akt1 and Akt2, mTor and Pdpk1 gene expression levels were evaluated by RT-PCR amplification. In Group 1, cortex and medulla were evaluated as normal; in Group 2, ovarian cortex was composed of immature oocytes and cystic follicles with atretic follicles. In Groups 3 and 4, follicles were in the process of normal follicle differentiation. The expression levels of Akt1 and Pi3k were significantly different (P < 0.0001) between Groups 1 and 2. The significant differences in expression levels of Pi3k and Akt1 were also observed between the Group 1 and both Groups 3 and 4 (P < 0.0001). Furthermore, significant variations of the expression levels of mTor between Groups 1 and 4 were observed. The extrapolation of results of this study may imply that follicular development may be regulated by molecular pathways involving Pi3k, Akt1 and mTor expression. Therefore, genes in the PI3K/AKT pathway may have a direct regulatory role in the development of PCOS.
Collapse
|
8
|
PI3K/PTEN/AKT Signaling Pathways in Germ Cell Development and Their Involvement in Germ Cell Tumors and Ovarian Dysfunctions. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22189838. [PMID: 34575999 PMCID: PMC8467417 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies indicate that the PI3K/PTEN/AKT signaling pathways are critical regulators of ovarian function including the formation of the germ cell precursors, termed primordial germ cells, and the follicular pool maintenance. This article reviews the current state of knowledge of the functional role of the PI3K/PTEN/AKT pathways during primordial germ cell development and the dynamics of the ovarian primordial follicle reserve and how dysregulation of these signaling pathways may contribute to the development of some types of germ cell tumors and ovarian dysfunctions.
Collapse
|
9
|
Amoushahi M, Lykke-Hartmann K. Distinct Signaling Pathways Distinguish in vivo From in vitro Growth in Murine Ovarian Follicle Activation and Maturation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:708076. [PMID: 34368158 PMCID: PMC8346253 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.708076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Women with cancer and low ovarian reserves face serious challenges in infertility treatment. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation is currently used for such patients to preserve fertility. One major challenge is the activation of dormant ovarian follicles, which is hampered by our limited biological understanding of molecular determinants that activate dormant follicles and help maintain healthy follicles during growth. Here, we investigated the transcriptomes of oocytes isolated from dormant (primordial) and activated (primary) follicles under in vivo and in vitro conditions. We compared the biological relevance of the initial molecular markers of mature metaphase II (MII) oocytes developed in vivo or in vitro. The expression levels of genes involved in the cell cycle, signal transduction, and Wnt signaling were highly enriched in oocytes from primary follicles and MII oocytes. Interestingly, we detected strong downregulation of the expression of genes involved in mitochondrial and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in oocytes from primordial follicles, in contrast to oocytes from primary follicles and MII oocytes. Our results showed a dynamic pattern in mitochondrial and ROS production-related genes, emphasizing their important role(s) in primordial follicle activation and oocyte maturation. The transcriptome of MII oocytes showed a major divergence from that of oocytes of primordial and primary follicles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Karin Lykke-Hartmann
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Koutsouveli V, Cárdenas P, Santodomingo N, Marina A, Morato E, Rapp HT, Riesgo A. The Molecular Machinery of Gametogenesis in Geodia Demosponges (Porifera): Evolutionary Origins of a Conserved Toolkit across Animals. Mol Biol Evol 2020; 37:3485-3506. [PMID: 32929503 PMCID: PMC7743902 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msaa183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
All animals are capable of undergoing gametogenesis. The ability of forming haploid cells from diploid cells through meiosis and recombination appeared early in eukaryotes, whereas further gamete differentiation is mostly a metazoan signature. Morphologically, the gametogenic process presents many similarities across animal taxa, but little is known about its conservation at the molecular level. Porifera are the earliest divergent animals and therefore are an ideal phylum to understand evolution of the gametogenic toolkits. Although sponge gametogenesis is well known at the histological level, the molecular toolkits for gamete production are largely unknown. Our goal was to identify the genes and their expression levels which regulate oogenesis and spermatogenesis in five gonochoristic and oviparous species of the genus Geodia, using both RNAseq and proteomic analyses. In the early stages of both female and male gametogenesis, genes involved in germ cell fate and cell-renewal were upregulated. Then, molecular signals involved in retinoic acid pathway could trigger the meiotic processes. During later stages of oogenesis, female sponges expressed genes involved in cell growth, vitellogenesis, and extracellular matrix reassembly, which are conserved elements of oocyte maturation in Metazoa. Likewise, in spermatogenesis, genes regulating the whole meiotic cycle, chromatin compaction, and flagellum axoneme formation, that are common across Metazoa were overexpressed in the sponges. Finally, molecular signals possibly related to sperm capacitation were identified during late stages of spermatogenesis for the first time in Porifera. In conclusion, the activated molecular toolkit during gametogenesis in sponges was remarkably similar to that deployed during gametogenesis in vertebrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Koutsouveli
- Department of Life Sciences, The Natural History Museum of London, London, United Kingdom
- Pharmacognosy, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, BMC, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Paco Cárdenas
- Pharmacognosy, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, BMC, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Nadiezhda Santodomingo
- Department of Life Sciences, The Natural History Museum of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anabel Marina
- Servicio de Proteómica, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CBMSO), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM) and Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Esperanza Morato
- Servicio de Proteómica, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CBMSO), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM) and Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Hans Tore Rapp
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ana Riesgo
- Department of Life Sciences, The Natural History Museum of London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
De Roo C, Lierman S, Tilleman K, De Sutter P. In-vitro fragmentation of ovarian tissue activates primordial follicles through the Hippo pathway. Hum Reprod Open 2020; 2020:hoaa048. [PMID: 33225076 PMCID: PMC7668399 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoaa048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the role of the Hippo and PI3K/Akt pathway in follicles during ovarian tissue culture in tissue derived from oncological patients and transgender men? SUMMARY ANSWER Results highlight a Hippo pathway driven primordial follicle activation in vitro, predominantly from Day 0 to Day 4. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In-vitro ovarian tissue culture aims at activating and maturing primordial follicles for fertility restoration in patients with a threatened ovarian reserve. Not all patients are eligible for ovarian cortex transplantation and therefore several groups are attempting to culture ovarian tissue in-vitro. Cortex fragmentation disrupts the Hippo pathway, leading to increased expression of downstream growth factors and follicle growth. The PI3K/Akt pathway is considered the intracellular pathway to where different extracellular factors involved in primordial follicle activation in-vivo converge. In order to optimise current ovarian tissue culture models, information on progression of these pathways during tissue culture is mandatory. STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION The first step of a multistep cortex culture system was performed using 144 ovarian cortex pieces from a total of six patients. Per patient, 24 cortical strips were cultured for 6 days and six pieces per patient were collected for downstream analysis of follicle development and Hippo and PI3K/Akt pathway targets every second day. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS Ovarian tissue was obtained from oncological (N = 3; 28.67 ± 4.51 years) and transgender (N = 3; 23.33 ± 1.53 years) patients. Follicles were analysed using haematoxylin-eosin staining and pathways were studied using immunohistochemistry and precise follicle excision by laser capture micro-dissection for RT-qPCR analysis. MIQE guidelines for RT-qPCR were pursued. Reference gene selection (GAPDH, RPL3A, 18s rRNA) was performed using GeNorm Reference Gene Selection Kit. Statistical analysis was conducted with IBM SPSS Statistics 23 (Poisson regression, negative binomial regression, ANOVA and paired t-test). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Immunohistochemical analysis confirmed a Hippo pathway driven primordial follicle activation due to mechanical manipulation of the cortical strips. Ovarian tissue preparation and culture induced the inhibitory phosphorylated Yes-associated protein (pYAP) to disappear in granulosa cells of primordial follicles on Day 2. The stimulatory YAP on the contrary appeared in primordial granulosa cells over increasing culture days. Looking at the YAP target connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), a significantly up-regulated CTGF was noted in primordial follicles when comparing Day 2 and Day 4 (ratio Day 2/4 = 0.082; P < 0.05), clearly showing an effect on the Hippo pathway in primordial follicles during tissue culture. Follicle classification showed a significant drop in estimated primordial follicle counts in the oncological cohort (-78%; P = 0.021) on Day 2 and in the transgender cohort on Day 4 (-634%; P = 0.008). Intermediate follicle counts showed a non-significant increasing trend to during culture and this follicle recruitment and growth resulted in a significant rise in estimated primary follicle counts on Day 6 in oncological patients (170%; P = 0.025) and, although limited in absolute numbers, a significant increase in secondary follicles on Day 4 (367%; P = 0.021) in the transgender cohort. Subsequent antral follicle development could not be observed. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION A limitation is the small sample size, inherent to this study subject, especially as a large amount of tissue was needed per patient to reduce inter-patient variation in different downstream analysis techniques. A particular and specific weakness of this study is the inability to include an age-matched control group. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These findings support an adapted tissue preparation for Hippo pathway disruption and a shorter first phase of tissue culture. This work may also have implications for transplantation of cryopreserved tissue as larger strips (and thus slower burnout due to less Hippo pathway disruption) could be a benefit. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This research was financially supported by the Foundation Against Cancer (Stichting tegen Kanker, TBMT001816N), the Flemish Foundation of Scientific Research (FWO Vlaanderen, FWO G0.065.11N10) and the Gender Identity Research and Education Society (GIRES) foundation. The authors declare no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C De Roo
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - S Lierman
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - K Tilleman
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - P De Sutter
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Yu B, Doni Jayavelu N, Battle SL, Mar JC, Schimmel T, Cohen J, Hawkins RD. Single-cell analysis of transcriptome and DNA methylome in human oocyte maturation. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0241698. [PMID: 33152014 PMCID: PMC7643955 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0241698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte maturation is a coordinated process that is tightly linked to reproductive potential. A better understanding of gene regulation during human oocyte maturation will not only answer an important question in biology, but also facilitate the development of in vitro maturation technology as a fertility treatment. We generated single-cell transcriptome and used our previously published single-cell methylome data from human oocytes at different maturation stages to investigate how genes are regulated during oocyte maturation, focusing on the potential regulatory role of non-CpG methylation. DNMT3B, a gene encoding a key non-CpG methylation enzyme, is one of the 1,077 genes upregulated in mature oocytes, which may be at least partially responsible for the increased non-CpG methylation as oocytes mature. Non-CpG differentially methylated regions (DMRs) between mature and immature oocytes have multiple binding motifs for transcription factors, some of which bind with DNMT3B and may be important regulators of oocyte maturation through non-CpG methylation. Over 98% of non-CpG DMRs locate in transposable elements, and these DMRs are correlated with expression changes of the nearby genes. Taken together, this data indicates that global non-CpG hypermethylation during oocyte maturation may play an active role in gene expression regulation, potentially through the interaction with transcription factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Yu
- Department of OBGYN, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Naresh Doni Jayavelu
- Departments of Medicine and Genome Sciences, University of Washington, School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Stephanie L. Battle
- Department of OBGYN, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Departments of Medicine and Genome Sciences, University of Washington, School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Jessica C. Mar
- Department of Systems and Computational Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Timothy Schimmel
- Reprogenetics LLC, Livingston, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Jacques Cohen
- Reprogenetics LLC, Livingston, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - R. David Hawkins
- Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Departments of Medicine and Genome Sciences, University of Washington, School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Al-Omar Z, Ozbakir B, Tulay P. Differential expression of genes involved in steroidogenesis pathway in human oocytes obtained from patients with polycystic ovaries. J Reprod Immunol 2020; 142:103191. [PMID: 32937223 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2020.103191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Follicular development can be disturbed due to many factors, including having polycystic ovaries. Aberrant expression of genes involved in steroidogenesis pathway could lead to aberrant oocyte development. In this study, the gene expression levels of a number of genes that is functioning in steroidogenesis pathway were investigated. MATERIALS AND METHODS The spare oocytes were collected from NEU Hospital IVF Center following controlled ovarian stimulation cycle. RNA was extracted using RNA/DNA Purification Kit (Norgen, Canada) and reverse transcription was performed using TruScript First Strand cDNA Synthesis Kit (Norgen, Canada). Real time PCR was conducted using LightCycler® 480 SYBR Green I Master (Roche, UK). RESULTS AND CONCLUSION The expression levels of CYP11, CYP17, CYP19, HSD17B1, HSD3B2 and ACTB were detected in human MII stage oocytes obtained from oocyte donors aged between 18-30 years. The number of follicles and oocytes collected from the patients with polycystic ovaries were slightly higher compared to the control group. The expression level of CYP11A1 was shown to be statistically different in the oocytes obtained from the patients who do not have polycystic ovaries (p < 0.05), whereas statistically significant expression levels were observed for CYP17 in the oocytes obtained from patients with polycystic ovaries (p < 0.05). The expression level of HSD17B1 was also shown to be statistically different in the oocytes (p < 0.05). The extrapolation of the results indicates that the genes involved in steroidogenesis pathway are altered in cases of polycystic ovaries. Thus, it may have a role in the development of polycystic ovaries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Z Al-Omar
- Near East University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - B Ozbakir
- Near East University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nicosia, Cyprus; Near East University, DESAM Institute, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - P Tulay
- Near East University, DESAM Institute, Nicosia, Cyprus; Near East University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Genetics, Nicosia, Cyprus.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Hummitzsch K, Hatzirodos N, Macpherson AM, Schwartz J, Rodgers RJ, Irving-Rodgers HF. Transcriptome analyses of ovarian stroma: tunica albuginea, interstitium and theca interna. Reproduction 2020; 157:545-565. [PMID: 30925461 DOI: 10.1530/rep-18-0323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The ovary has specialised stromal compartments, including the tunica albuginea, interstitial stroma and theca interna, which develops concurrently with the follicular antrum. To characterise the molecular determinants of these compartments, stroma adjacent to preantral follicles (pre-theca), interstitium and tunica albuginea were laser microdissected (n = 4 per group) and theca interna was dissected from bovine antral follicles (n = 6). RNA microarray analysis showed minimal differences between interstitial stroma and pre-theca, and these were combined for some analyses and referred to as stroma. Genes significantly upregulated in theca interna compared to stroma included INSL3, LHCGR, HSD3B1, CYP17A1, ALDH1A1, OGN, POSTN and ASPN. Quantitative RT-PCR showed significantly greater expression of OGN and LGALS1 in interstitial stroma and theca interna versus tunica and greater expression of ACD in tunica compared to theca interna. PLN was significantly higher in interstitial stroma compared to tunica and theca. Ingenuity pathway, network and upstream regulator analyses were undertaken. Cell survival was also upregulated in theca interna. The tunica albuginea was associated with GPCR and cAMP signalling, suggesting tunica contractility. It was also associated with TGF-β signalling and increased fibrous matrix. Western immunoblotting was positive for OGN, LGALS1, ALDH1A1, ACD and PLN with PLN and OGN highly expressed in tunica and interstitial stroma (each n = 6), but not in theca interna from antral follicles (n = 24). Immunohistochemistry localised LGALS1 and POSTN to extracellular matrix and PLN to smooth muscle cells. These results have identified novel differences between the ovarian stromal compartments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katja Hummitzsch
- Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Nicholas Hatzirodos
- Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Anne M Macpherson
- Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jeff Schwartz
- School of Medicine, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Raymond J Rodgers
- Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Helen F Irving-Rodgers
- Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,School of Medical Science, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Distinct expression patterns of TLR transcripts in human oocytes and granulosa cells from primordial and primary follicles. J Reprod Immunol 2020; 140:103125. [PMID: 32454326 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2020.103125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Ovulation has long been regarded as a process resembling an inflammatory response. Previously, luteinizing hormone (LH) was shown to induce Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and TLR4 in granulosa cells from preovulatory hormone-dependent follicles. However, whether this could already initiate before the hormone-dependent phase is currently unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate TLR genes in human oocytes and granulosa cells from primordial and primary ovarian follicles during the hormone-independent phase. A class-comparison study of existing oocyte and granulosa cell RNA sequencing transcriptomes from primordial (n = 539 follicles) and primary (n = 261) follicles collected from three patients was examined. This revealed a distinct expression pattern of TLR3, TLR4 and TLR5 transcripts. Interestingly, the TLR3 protein was differentially detected in both the oocyte and the granulosa cells in primordial and primary follicles, suggesting that TLR3 is maternally contributed both as mRNA and protein. Intracellularly, the compartmentalized TLR3 dot-like staining in the intersection between the oocyte and the surrounding primordial granulosa cells. The TLR4 protein was detected in both primordial and primary follicles, with a notable staining in the granulosa cells. We functionally challenged ovaries in vitro, by polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly I:C) and LPS, known to activate TLR3 and TLR4, respectively, and found a tendency for increased IL-6 production, which was particular evident in the LPS-treated group. Based on the expression of TLRs, it is notably that human primordial and primary follicles express genes that would allow them to respond to innate immune proteins and cytokines during follicle activation.
Collapse
|
16
|
Single-Cell Transcriptomic Atlas of Primate Ovarian Aging. Cell 2020; 180:585-600.e19. [PMID: 32004457 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2020.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 270] [Impact Index Per Article: 67.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Molecular mechanisms of ovarian aging and female age-related fertility decline remain unclear. We surveyed the single-cell transcriptomic landscape of ovaries from young and aged non-human primates (NHPs) and identified seven ovarian cell types with distinct gene-expression signatures, including oocyte and six types of ovarian somatic cells. In-depth dissection of gene-expression dynamics of oocytes revealed four subtypes at sequential and stepwise developmental stages. Further analysis of cell-type-specific aging-associated transcriptional changes uncovered the disturbance of antioxidant signaling specific to early-stage oocytes and granulosa cells, indicative of oxidative damage as a crucial factor in ovarian functional decline with age. Additionally, inactivated antioxidative pathways, increased reactive oxygen species, and apoptosis were observed in granulosa cells from aged women. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the cell-type-specific mechanisms underlying primate ovarian aging at single-cell resolution, revealing new diagnostic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for age-related human ovarian disorders.
Collapse
|
17
|
Shams Mofarahe Z, Ghaffari Novin M, Salehnia M. Folliculogenesis-Associated Genes Expression in Human Vitrified Ovarian Tissue after Xenotransplantation in γ-Irradiated Mice. CELL JOURNAL 2019; 22:350-357. [PMID: 31863661 PMCID: PMC6947005 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2020.6553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2018] [Accepted: 04/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Objective Autograft transplantation of vitrified cortical ovarian tissue is an acceptable clinical technique for fertility
preservation in women. Xenograft transplantation into animal models could be useful for evaluating the safety of human
vitrified ovarian tissue. This study targeted to evaluate impact of vitrification on expression of the genes associated with
folliculogenesis after xenograft transplantation of human vitrified ovarian tissue to γ-irradiated mice.
Materials and Methods In this experimental study, ovarian biopsies were gathered from six transsexual persons. The
cortical section of ovarian biopsies was separated and chopped into small pieces. These pieces were randomly divided
into vitrified and non-vitrified groups. In each group some pieces were considered as non-transplanted tissues and
the others were transplanted to γ-irradiated female National Medical Research Institute (NMRI) mice. Before and after
two weeks of xenograft transplantation, histological assessment and evaluation of the expression of folliculogenesis-
associated genes (FIGLA, GDF-9, KL and FSHR) were performed in both vitrified and non-vitrified groups.
Results Percentage of the normal follicles and expression of the all examined genes from transplanted and non-
transplanted tissue were similar in both vitrified and non-vitrified groups (P>0.05). After transplantation, the normal
follicle rate was significantly decreased and among the folliculogenesis-associated genes, expression of GDF-9 gene
was significantly increased, rather than before transplantation in vitrified and non-vitrified tissues (P<0.05).
Conclusion The vitrification method using dimethyl solphoxide and ethylene glycol (EG) had no remarkable effect
on the normal follicular rate and expression of folliculogenesis-associated genes after two weeks human ovarian
tissue xenografting. In addition, transplantation process can cause a significant decrease in normal follicular rate and
expression of GDF-9 gene.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Shams Mofarahe
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marefat Ghaffari Novin
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojdeh Salehnia
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran. Electronic Address:
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Clinical and Genetic Investigation of Premature Ovarian Insufficiency Cases from Turkey. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2019; 48:817-823. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2019.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
|
19
|
TMEFF2 is a novel prognosis signature and target for endometrial carcinoma. Life Sci 2019; 243:116910. [PMID: 31610211 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2019.116910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Tomoregulin-2 (TMEFF2) is a single-pass transmembrane protein whose specific functions and mechanisms in endometrial carcinoma (EC) remain unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression, prognostic role, and potential regulatory mechanisms of TMEFF2 in EC. MATERIALS AND METHODS The expression and prognosis of TMEFF2 in EC were analyzed via bioinformatics and verified by immunohistochemistry and survival analysis. Proliferation, invasion, and migration of EC cells in vitro were assessed by cell functional assays, while epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers and key signaling pathway proteins were evaluated by western blotting. KEY FINDINGS The expression of TMEFF2 in EC was significantly higher than that in atypical hyperplasia and normal endometrium, the high expression of TMEFF2 was correlated with advanced stage, poor differentiation, and lymph node metastasis, and also predicted a poor prognosis of EC. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis showed that TMEFF2 and its related genes were enriched in the central nervous system, cell adhesion, signal transduction, and several critical signaling pathways. We also elucidated TMEFF2 networks of kinase, microRNA, and transcription factor targets. In vitro, the proliferation, invasion, and migration abilities of EC cells decreased after TMEFF2 downregulation. Downregulation of TMEFF2 reduced the activation of MAPK and PI3K signaling pathways, and inhibited EMT. SIGNIFICANCE TMEFF2 plays an important role in the initiation, development, and malignant behavior of EC and can be a potential target for early diagnosis and treatment in EC.
Collapse
|
20
|
von Wolff M, Andersen CY, Woodruff TK, Nawroth F. FertiPROTEKT, Oncofertility Consortium and the Danish Fertility-Preservation Networks - What Can We Learn From Their Experiences? CLINICAL MEDICINE INSIGHTS. REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2019; 13:1179558119845865. [PMID: 31068758 PMCID: PMC6495450 DOI: 10.1177/1179558119845865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Fertility preservation is an increasingly important discipline. It requires close coordination between reproductive medicine specialists, reproductive biologists, and oncologists in various disciplines. In addition, it represents a particular health policy challenge, since fertility-protection measures are to be understood as a treatment for side effects of gonadotoxic treatments and would therefore normally have to be reimbursed by health insurance companies. Therefore, it is inevitable that fertility-preservation activities should organise themselves into a network structure both as a medical-logistic network and as a professional medical society. The necessary network structures can differ significantly at regional, national, and international level, as the size of the regions to be integrated and the local cultural and geographical conditions, as well as the political conditions are very different. To address these issues, the current review aims to point out the basic importance and the chances but also the difficulties of fertility-protection networks and give practical guidance for the development of such network structures. We will not only discuss network structures theoretically but also present them based on three established, different sized networks, such as the Danish Network (www.rigshospitalet.dk), representing a centralised network in a small country; the German-Austrian-Swiss network FertiPROTEKT® (www.fertiprotekt.com), representing a centralised as well as decentralised network in a large country; and the Oncofertility® Consortium (www.oncofertility.northwestern.edu), representing a decentralised, internationally oriented network, primarily serving the transfer of knowledge among its members.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael von Wolff
- University Women’s Hospital, Division of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Claus Yding Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Health Science, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Teresa K Woodruff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Frank Nawroth
- Centre for Infertility, Prenatal Medicine, Endocrinology and Osteology, Amedes group, Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Steffensen LL, Ernst EH, Amoushahi M, Ernst E, Lykke-Hartmann K. Transcripts Encoding the Androgen Receptor and IGF-Related Molecules Are Differently Expressed in Human Granulosa Cells From Primordial and Primary Follicles. Front Cell Dev Biol 2018; 6:85. [PMID: 30148131 PMCID: PMC6095988 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2018.00085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 07/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Bidirectional cross talk between granulosa cells and oocytes is known to be important in all stages of mammalian follicular development. Insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signaling is a prominent candidate to be involved in the activation of primordial follicles, and may be be connected to androgen-signaling. In this study, we interrogated transcriptome dynamics in granulosa cells isolated from human primordial and primary follicles to reveal information of growth factors and androgens involved in the physiology of ovarian follicular activation. Toward this, a transcriptome comparison study on primordial follicles (n = 539 follicles) and primary follicles (n = 261 follicles) donated by three women having ovarian tissue cryopreserved before chemotherapy was performed. The granulosa cell contribution in whole follicle isolates was extracted in silico. Modeling of complex biological systems was performed using IPA® software. We found the granulosa cell compartment of the human primordial and primary follicles to be extensively enriched in genes encoding IGF-related factors, and the Androgen Receptor (AR) enriched in granulosa cells of primordial follicles. Our study hints the possibility that primordial follicles may indeed be androgen responsive, and that the action of androgens represents a connection to the expression of key players in the IGF-signaling pathway including IGF1R, IGF2, and IGFBP3, and that this interaction could be important for early follicular activation. In line with this, several androgen-responsive genes were noted to be expressed in both oocytes and granulosa cells from human primordial and primary follicle. We present a detailed description of AR and IGF gene activities in the human granulosa cell compartment of primordial and primary follicles, suggesting that these cells may be or prepare to be responsive toward androgens and IGFs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Emil H Ernst
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Erik Ernst
- The Fertility Clinic, Horsens Hospital, Horsens, Denmark.,The Fertility Clinic, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Karin Lykke-Hartmann
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Ernst EH, Nielsen J, Ipsen MB, Villesen P, Lykke-Hartmann K. Transcriptome Analysis of Long Non-coding RNAs and Genes Encoding Paraspeckle Proteins During Human Ovarian Follicle Development. Front Cell Dev Biol 2018; 6:78. [PMID: 30087896 PMCID: PMC6066568 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2018.00078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence indicated that many long non-coding (lnc)RNAs function in multiple biological processes and dysregulation of their expression can cause diseases. Most regulatory lncRNAs interact with biological macromolecules such as DNA, RNA, and protein. LncRNAs regulate gene expression through epigenetic modification, transcription, and posttranscription, through DNA methylation, histone modification, and chromatin remodeling. Interestingly, differential lncRNA expression profiles in human oocytes and cumulus cells was recently assessed, however, lncRNAs in human follicle development has not previously been described. In this study, transcriptome dynamics in human primordial, primary and small antral follicles were interrogated and revealed information of lncRNA genes. It is known that some lncRNAs form a complex with paraspeckle proteins and therefore, we extended our transcriptional analysis to include genes encoding paraspeckle proteins. Primordial, primary follicles and small antral follicles was isolated using laser capture micro-dissection from ovarian tissue donated by three women having ovarian tissue cryopreserved before chemotherapy. After RN sequencing, a bioinformatic class comparison was performed and primordial, primary and small antral follicles were found to express several lncRNA and genes encoding paraspeckle proteins. Of particular interest, we detected the lncRNAs XIST, NEAT1, NEAT2 (MALAT1), and GAS5. Moreover, we noted a high expression of FUS, TAF15, and EWS components of the paraspeckles, proteins that belong to the FET (previously TET) family of RNA-binding proteins and are implicated in central cellular processes such as regulation of gene expression, maintenance of genomic integrity, and mRNA/microRNA processing. We also interrogated the intra-ovarian localization of the FUS, TAF15, and EWS proteins using immunofluorescence. The presence and the dynamics of genes that encode lncRNA and paraspeckle proteins may suggest that these may mediate functions in the cyclic recruitment and differentiation of human follicles and could participate in biological processes known to be associated with lncRNAs and paraspeckle proteins, such as gene expression control, scaffold formation and epigenetic control through human follicle development. This comprehensive transcriptome analysis of lncRNAs and genes encoding paraspeckle proteins expressed in human follicles could potentially provide biomarkers of oocyte quality for the development of non-invasive tests to identify embryos with high developmental potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emil H. Ernst
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Julie Nielsen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Malene B. Ipsen
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Palle Villesen
- Bioinformatic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Karin Lykke-Hartmann
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Bothun AM, Gao Y, Takai Y, Ishihara O, Seki H, Karger B, Tilly JL, Woods DC. Quantitative Proteomic Profiling of the Human Ovary from Early to Mid-Gestation Reveals Protein Expression Dynamics of Oogenesis and Folliculogenesis. Stem Cells Dev 2018; 27:723-735. [PMID: 29631484 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2018.0002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The in vivo gene networks involved in coordinating human fetal ovarian development remain obscure. In this study, quantitative mass spectrometry was conducted on ovarian tissue collected at key stages during the first two trimesters of human gestational development, confirming the expression profiling data using immunofluorescence, as well as in vitro modeling with human oogonial stem cells (OSCs) and human embryonic stem cells (ESCs). A total of 3,837 proteins were identified in samples spanning developmental days 47-137. Bioinformatics clustering and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis identified DNA mismatch repair and base excision repair as major pathways upregulated during this time. In addition, MAEL and TEX11, two key meiosis-related proteins, were identified as highly expressed during the developmental window associated with fetal oogenesis. These findings were confirmed and extended using in vitro differentiation of OSCs into in vitro derived oocytes and of ESCs into primordial germ cell-like cells and oocyte-like cells, as models. In conclusion, the global protein expression profiling data generated by this study have provided novel insights into human fetal ovarian development in vivo and will serve as a valuable new resource for future studies of the signaling pathways used to orchestrate human oogenesis and folliculogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alisha M Bothun
- 1 Department of Biology, Laboratory for Aging and Infertility Research, Northeastern University , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Yuanwei Gao
- 2 Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, The Barnett Institute for Chemical and Biological Analysis, Northeastern University , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Yasushi Takai
- 3 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical Center, Saitama Medical University , Saitama, Japan
| | - Osamu Ishihara
- 4 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical University , Saitama, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Seki
- 3 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saitama Medical Center, Saitama Medical University , Saitama, Japan
| | - Barry Karger
- 2 Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology, The Barnett Institute for Chemical and Biological Analysis, Northeastern University , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jonathan L Tilly
- 1 Department of Biology, Laboratory for Aging and Infertility Research, Northeastern University , Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Dori C Woods
- 1 Department of Biology, Laboratory for Aging and Infertility Research, Northeastern University , Boston, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ernst EH, Grøndahl ML, Grund S, Hardy K, Heuck A, Sunde L, Franks S, Andersen CY, Villesen P, Lykke-Hartmann K. Dormancy and activation of human oocytes from primordial and primary follicles: molecular clues to oocyte regulation. Hum Reprod 2017; 32:1684-1700. [PMID: 28854595 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 06/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do specific transcriptome dynamics in human oocytes from primordial and primary follicles identify novel pathways in oocyte activation? SUMMARY ANSWER The transcriptomic profiles in oocytes from primordial and primary follicles, respectively, revealed several new canonical pathways as putative mediators of oocyte dormancy and activation. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Cellular signaling pathways including PI3K/AKT and AKT/mTOR as well as TGF-β and IGF signaling are known to regulate the primordial-to-primary transition in mammalian follicle development. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We performed a class comparison study on human oocytes from primordial (n = 436) and primary (n = 182) follicles donated by three women having ovarian tissue cryopreserved before chemotherapy. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS RNA was extracted from oocytes from primordial and primary follicles isolated by Laser Capture Microdissection, and submitted to the HiSeq Illumina platform. Data mapping, quality control, filtering and expression analysis were performed using Tophat (2.0.4), Cufflinks (2.0.2), BWA (0.6.2) and software R. Modeling of complex biological systems was performed using the IPA® software. Finally, qPCR and immunohistochemistry were employed to explore expression and localization of selected genes and products in human ovarian tissue. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We found 223 and 268 genes down-regulated and up-regulated, respectively, in the oocytes during the human primordial-to-primary follicle transition (P < 0.05 and/or FPKM fold-change >2). IPA® enrichment analysis revealed known pathways ('mTOR Signaling', 'PI3K/AKT Signaling' and 'PTEN Signaling') as well as enriched canonical pathways not previously associated with human ovarian follicle development such as 'ErB Signaling' and 'NGF Signaling' in the down-regulated category and 'Regulation of eIF4 and P70S6K Signaling' and 'HER-2 Signaling in Breast Cancer' in the up-regulated group. Additionally, immunohistochemistry on human ovarian tissue explored the intraovarian localization of VASA, FOXO1 and eIF4E. LARGE SCALE DATA http://users-birc.au.dk/biopv/published_data/ernst_2017/. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This is a descriptive analysis and no functional studies were performed. The study was based on a limited number of patients and the experimental design could not take into account the natural biological variance in human samples. Therefore, qPCR was used to confirm selected genes alongside immunohistochemical stainings. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study shows, for the first time, a detailed molecular description of global gene transcription activities in oocytes from primordial and primary follicles, respectively. Knowing the global transcription profiles of human oocyte dormancy and activation are important in developing new clinical applications. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) E.H.E. was supported by Health Faculty, Aarhus University and Kong Christian Den Tiendes Fond. K.H. and S.F. were supported by an MRC (UK) project grant MR/M012638/1. K.L.H. was supported by grants from Fonden til Lægevidenskabens Fremme, Kong Christian Den Tiendes Fond. K.L.H. and L.S. were supported by the IDEAS grant from Aarhus University Research Foundation (AUFF). There are no conflicts of interest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E H Ernst
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Wilhelm Meyers Allé 4, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - M L Grøndahl
- Fertility Clinic, Herlev Hospital, Herlev Ringvej 75, DK-2730 Herlev, Denmark
| | - S Grund
- Bioinformatics Research Centre (BiRC), Aarhus University, C.F.Møllers Allé 8, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - K Hardy
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - A Heuck
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Wilhelm Meyers Allé 4, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - L Sunde
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Wilhelm Meyers Allé 4, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Brendstrupgårdsvej 21, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - S Franks
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - C Y Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - P Villesen
- Bioinformatics Research Centre (BiRC), Aarhus University, C.F.Møllers Allé 8, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Wilhelm Meyers Allé 4, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - K Lykke-Hartmann
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Wilhelm Meyers Allé 4, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Brendstrupgårdsvej 21, DK-8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Wilhelm Meyers Allé 4, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
- Aarhus Institute of Advanced Studies, Aarhus University, Høegh-Guldbergs Gade 6B, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
In vitro differentiation of human embryonic stem cells into ovarian follicle-like cells. Nat Commun 2017; 8:15680. [PMID: 28604658 PMCID: PMC5472783 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms15680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 04/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the unique mechanisms of human oogenesis necessitates the development of an in vitro system of stem cell differentiation into oocytes. Specialized cell types and organoids have been derived from human pluripotent stem cells in vitro, but generating a human ovarian follicle remains a challenge. Here we report that human embryonic stem cells can be induced to differentiate into ovarian follicle-like cells (FLCs) in vitro. First, we find that two RNA-binding proteins specifically expressed in germ cells, DAZL and BOULE, regulate the exit from pluripotency and entry into meiosis. By expressing DAZL and BOULE with recombinant human GDF9 and BMP15, these meiotic germ cells are further induced to form ovarian FLCs, including oocytes and granulosa cells. This robust in vitro differentiation system will allow the study of the unique molecular mechanisms underlying human pluripotent stem cell differentiation into late primordial germ cells, meiotic germ cells and ovarian follicles.
Collapse
|
26
|
Gupta A, Tiwari M, Prasad S, Chaube SK. Role of Cyclic Nucleotide Phosphodiesterases During Meiotic Resumption From Diplotene Arrest in Mammalian Oocytes. J Cell Biochem 2016; 118:446-452. [PMID: 27662514 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.25748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2016] [Accepted: 09/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases (PDEs) are group of enzymes that hydrolyze cyclic nucleotides in wide variety of cell types including encircling granulosa cells as well as associated oocytes. One group of PDEs are located in encircling granulosa cells and another group get expressed in the oocyte, while few other PDEs are expressed in both compartments. The PDE1A, PDE4D, PDE5A, PDE8A, and PDE8B are granulosa cell specific PDEs that hydrolyze adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) as well as guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cGMP) with different affinities. PDE3A, PDE8A as well as PDE9A are expressed in oocyte and specifically responsible for the cyclic nucleotide hydrolysis in the oocyte itself. Few other PDEs such as PDE7B, PDE10A, and PDE11A are either detected in granulosa cells or oocytes. Activation of these PDEs either in encircling granulosa cells or in oocyte directly or indirectly reduces intraoocyte cAMP level. Reduction of intraoocyte cAMP level modulates phosphorylation status of cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (Cdk1) and triggers cyclin B1 degradation that destabilizes maturation promoting factor (MPF) and/or increases Cdk1 activity. The destabilized MPF and/or increased Cdk1 activity leads to resumption of meiosis, which initiates the achievement of meiotic competency in preovulatory follicles of several mammalian species. Use of specific PDEs inhibitors block cyclic nucleotides hydrolysis that results in increase of intraoocyte cyclic nucleotides level, which leads to maintenance of meiotic arrest at diplotene stage in vivo as well as in vitro. Thus, cyclic nucleotide PDEs play important role in the achievement of meiotic competency by reducing intraoocyte cyclic nucleotides level in mammalian oocytes. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 446-452, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anumegha Gupta
- Cell Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221005, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Meenakshi Tiwari
- Cell Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221005, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shilpa Prasad
- Cell Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221005, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shail K Chaube
- Cell Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221005, Uttar Pradesh, India
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Corbin JM, Overcash RF, Wren JD, Coburn A, Tipton GJ, Ezzell JA, McNaughton KK, Fung KM, Kosanke SD, Ruiz-Echevarria MJ. Analysis of TMEFF2 allografts and transgenic mouse models reveals roles in prostate regeneration and cancer. Prostate 2016; 76:97-113. [PMID: 26417683 PMCID: PMC4722803 DOI: 10.1002/pros.23103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2015] [Accepted: 09/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous results from our lab indicate a tumor suppressor role for the transmembrane protein with epidermal growth factor and two follistatin motifs 2 (TMEFF2) in prostate cancer (PCa). Here, we further characterize this role and uncover new functions for TMEFF2 in cancer and adult prostate regeneration. METHODS The role of TMEFF2 was examined in PCa cells using Matrigel(TM) cultures and allograft models of PCa cells. In addition, we developed a transgenic mouse model that expresses TMEFF2 from a prostate specific promoter. Anatomical, histological, and metabolic characterizations of the transgenic mouse prostate were conducted. The effect of TMEFF2 in prostate regeneration was studied by analyzing branching morphogenesis in the TMEFF2-expressing mouse lobes and alterations in branching morphogenesis were correlated with the metabolomic profiles of the mouse lobes. The role of TMEFF2 in prostate tumorigenesis in whole animals was investigated by crossing the TMEFF2 transgenic mice with the TRAMP mouse model of PCa and analyzing the histopathological changes in the progeny. RESULTS Ectopic expression of TMEFF2 impairs growth of PCa cells in Matrigel or allograft models. Surprisingly, while TMEFF2 expression in the TRAMP mouse did not have a significant effect on the glandular prostate epithelial lesions, the double TRAMP/TMEFF2 transgenic mice displayed an increased incidence of neuroendocrine type tumors. In addition, TMEFF2 promoted increased branching specifically in the dorsal lobe of the prostate suggesting a potential role in developmental processes. These results correlated with data indicating an alteration in the metabolic profile of the dorsal lobe of the transgenic TMEFF2 mice. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our results confirm the tumor suppressor role of TMEFF2 and suggest that ectopic expression of TMEFF2 in mouse prostate leads to additional lobe-specific effects in prostate regeneration and tumorigenesis. This points to a complex and multifunctional role for TMEFF2 during PCa progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- JM. Corbin
- Department of Pathology, Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center. Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - RF. Overcash
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - JD. Wren
- Arthritis and Clinical Immunology Research Program. Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation. Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - A. Coburn
- Department of Comparative Medicine. East Carolina University. Greenville, NC, USA
| | - GJ. Tipton
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - JA. Ezzell
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - KK. McNaughton
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - KM Fung
- Department of Pathology, Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center. Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Pathology, Oklahoma City Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - SD. Kosanke
- Department of Pathology, Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center. Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - MJ Ruiz-Echevarria
- Department of Pathology, Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center. Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Stephenson Cancer Center. Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Correspondence to: MJ. Ruiz-Echevarria, Associate Professor of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Stanton L. Young Biomedical Research Center, 975 N.E. 10th Street, Room 1368A, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104. Phone: (405) 271.1871; Fax: (405) 271.2141.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Bonnet A, Servin B, Mulsant P, Mandon-Pepin B. Spatio-Temporal Gene Expression Profiling during In Vivo Early Ovarian Folliculogenesis: Integrated Transcriptomic Study and Molecular Signature of Early Follicular Growth. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0141482. [PMID: 26540452 PMCID: PMC4634757 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0141482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2015] [Accepted: 10/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The successful achievement of early ovarian folliculogenesis is important for fertility and reproductive life span. This complex biological process requires the appropriate expression of numerous genes at each developmental stage, in each follicular compartment. Relatively little is known at present about the molecular mechanisms that drive this process, and most gene expression studies have been performed in rodents and without considering the different follicular compartments. Results We used RNA-seq technology to explore the sheep transcriptome during early ovarian follicular development in the two main compartments: oocytes and granulosa cells. We documented the differential expression of 3,015 genes during this phase and described the gene expression dynamic specific to these compartments. We showed that important steps occurred during primary/secondary transition in sheep. We also described the in vivo molecular course of a number of pathways. In oocytes, these pathways documented the chronology of the acquisition of meiotic competence, migration and cellular organization, while in granulosa cells they concerned adhesion, the formation of cytoplasmic projections and steroid synthesis. This study proposes the involvement in this process of several members of the integrin and BMP families. The expression of genes such as Kruppel-like factor 9 (KLF9) and BMP binding endothelial regulator (BMPER) was highlighted for the first time during early follicular development, and their proteins were also predicted to be involved in gene regulation. Finally, we selected a data set of 24 biomarkers that enabled the discrimination of early follicular stages and thus offer a molecular signature of early follicular growth. This set of biomarkers includes known genes such as SPO11 meiotic protein covalently bound to DSB (SPO11), bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) and WEE1 homolog 2 (S. pombe)(WEE2) which play critical roles in follicular development but other biomarkers are also likely to play significant roles in this process. Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first in vivo spatio-temporal exploration of transcriptomes derived from early follicles in sheep.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agnes Bonnet
- INRA, UMR 1388 GenPhySE (Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes d’Elevage), F-31326 Castanet-Tolosan, France
- Université de Toulouse, INP, ENSAT, GenPhySE (Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes d’Elevage), F-31326 Castanet-Tolosan, France
- Université de Toulouse, INP, ENVT, GenPhySE (Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes d’Elevage), F-31076 Toulouse, France
- * E-mail:
| | - Bertrand Servin
- INRA, UMR 1388 GenPhySE (Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes d’Elevage), F-31326 Castanet-Tolosan, France
- Université de Toulouse, INP, ENSAT, GenPhySE (Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes d’Elevage), F-31326 Castanet-Tolosan, France
- Université de Toulouse, INP, ENVT, GenPhySE (Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes d’Elevage), F-31076 Toulouse, France
| | - Philippe Mulsant
- INRA, UMR 1388 GenPhySE (Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes d’Elevage), F-31326 Castanet-Tolosan, France
- Université de Toulouse, INP, ENSAT, GenPhySE (Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes d’Elevage), F-31326 Castanet-Tolosan, France
- Université de Toulouse, INP, ENVT, GenPhySE (Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes d’Elevage), F-31076 Toulouse, France
| | - Beatrice Mandon-Pepin
- INRA, UMR1198 Biologie du Développement et de la Reproduction, F-78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Yang MY, Fortune JE. Changes in the transcriptome of bovine ovarian cortex during follicle activation in vitro. Physiol Genomics 2015; 47:600-11. [PMID: 26443523 DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00060.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2015] [Accepted: 09/29/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The signals that regulate activation, a key transition in ovarian follicular development, are still not well understood, especially in nonrodent species. To gain insight into the regulation of this transition in cattle, we combined a microarray approach with an in vitro system in which ovarian cortical pieces cultured in control medium are enriched for primordial follicles, whereas pieces cultured with insulin are enriched for primary follicles. Total RNA was extracted from cultured cortical pieces, and then transcripts were identified and analyzed using the Affymetrix Bovine Genome GeneChip array. Around 65% of the transcripts in the bovine GeneChip were detected in cultured cortical pieces. Comparison between pieces cultured with or without insulin generated 158 differentially expressed transcripts. Compared with controls, 90 transcripts were upregulated and 68 were downregulated by insulin. These transcripts are involved in many biological processes and functions, but most are associated with cellular growth or cell cycle/cell death. The transcript encoding ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2C (UBE2C) was significantly upregulated during follicle activation, and Ingenuity Pathways Analysis revealed that UBE2C can interact with the tumor suppressor phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN). Both PTEN mRNA and protein were lower in cortical pieces cultured with insulin than in controls. In addition, FOXO3a, a downstream effector of PTEN signaling, underwent nuclear-cytoplasmic shuttling during primordial to primary follicle development in bovine fetal ovaries, further suggesting the involvement of the PTEN pathway in follicle activation in cattle. Genes and pathways identified in this study provide interesting candidates for further investigation of mechanisms underlying follicle activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Y Yang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
| | - J E Fortune
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Petersen TS, Stahlhut M, Andersen CY. Phosphodiesterases in the rat ovary: effect of cAMP in primordial follicles. Reproduction 2015; 150:11-20. [PMID: 25861799 DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) are important regulators of the intracellular cAMP concentration, which is a central second messenger that affects a multitude of intracellular functions. In the ovaries, cAMP exerts diverse functions, including regulation of ovulation and it has been suggested that augmented cAMP levels stimulate primordial follicle growth. The present study examined the gene expression, enzyme activity and immunolocalization of the different cAMP hydrolysing PDEs families in the rat ovary. Further, the effect of PDE4 inhibition on primordial follicle activation in cultured neonatal rat ovaries was also evaluated. We found varied expression of all eight families in the ovary with Pde7b and Pde8a having the highest expression each accounting for more than 20% of the total PDE mRNA. PDE4 accounted for 15-26% of the total PDE activity. Immunoreactive PDE11A was found in the oocytes and PDE2A in the corpora lutea. Incubating neonatal rat ovaries with PDE4 inhibitors did not increase primordial follicle activation or change the expression of the developing follicle markers Gdf9, Amh, Inha, the proliferation marker Mki67 or the primordial follicle marker Tmeff2. In addition, the cAMP analogue 8-bromo-cAMP did not increase AKT1 or FOXO3A phosphorylation associated with follicle activation or increase the expression of Kitlg known to be associated with follicle differentiation but did increase the Tmeff2, Mki67 and Inha expression in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, this study shows that both Pde7b and Pde8a are highly expressed in the rodent ovary and that PDE4 inhibition does not cause an increase in primordial follicle activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tonny Studsgaard Petersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive BiologyThe Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children, and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen University, Department 5712, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, DenmarkLEO PharmaBallerup 2750, Denmark Laboratory of Reproductive BiologyThe Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children, and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen University, Department 5712, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, DenmarkLEO PharmaBallerup 2750, Denmark
| | - Martin Stahlhut
- Laboratory of Reproductive BiologyThe Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children, and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen University, Department 5712, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, DenmarkLEO PharmaBallerup 2750, Denmark
| | - Claus Yding Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive BiologyThe Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children, and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen University, Department 5712, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen 2100, DenmarkLEO PharmaBallerup 2750, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Petersen TS, Kristensen SG, Jeppesen JV, Grøndahl ML, Wissing ML, Macklon KT, Andersen CY. Distribution and function of 3',5'-Cyclic-AMP phosphodiesterases in the human ovary. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2015; 403:10-20. [PMID: 25578602 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2014] [Revised: 01/03/2015] [Accepted: 01/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The concentration of the important second messenger cAMP is regulated by phosphodiesterases (PDEs) and hence an attractive drug target. However, limited human data are available about the PDEs in the ovary. The aim of the present study was to describe and characterise the PDEs in the human ovary. Results were obtained by analysis of mRNA microarray data from follicles and granulosa cells (GCs), combined RT-PCR and enzymatic activity analysis in GCs, immunohistochemical analysis of ovarian sections and by studying the effect of PDE inhibitors on progesterone production from cultured GCs. We found that PDE3, PDE4, PDE7 and PDE8 are the major families present while PDE11A was not detected. PDE8B was differentially expressed during folliculogenesis. In cultured GCs, inhibition of PDE7 and PDE8 increased basal progesterone secretion while PDE4 inhibition increased forskolin-stimulated progesterone secretion. In conclusion, we identified PDE3, PDE4, PDE7 and PDE8 as the major PDEs in the human ovary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T S Petersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children, and Reproduction - Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark; Medical Department, LEO Pharma, Ballerup 2750, Denmark.
| | - S G Kristensen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children, and Reproduction - Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - J V Jeppesen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children, and Reproduction - Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - M L Grøndahl
- The Fertility Clinic, Herlev Hospital, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen University, Herlev 2730, Denmark
| | - M L Wissing
- The Fertility Clinic, Holbæk Sygehus, Holbæk 4300, Denmark
| | - K T Macklon
- The Fertility Clinic, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children, and Reproduction - Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - C Y Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children, and Reproduction - Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Kristensen SG, Ebbesen P, Andersen CY. Transcriptional profiling of five isolated size-matched stages of human preantral follicles. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2015; 401:189-201. [PMID: 25528519 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2014.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2013] [Revised: 11/10/2014] [Accepted: 12/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Little is known of the early stages of human follicular development and the complex processes that regulate follicular growth. To identify genes of potential importance, we analysed follicle-related transcripts in five populations of isolated size-matched human preantral follicles by microarray analysis. Oocyte-specific genes were found to be the most abundant and differentially expressed transcripts and included germ cell transcription factors LHX8 and SOHLH2 which were significantly down-regulated during preantral follicle development. Differentially expressed genes also included transcription factors of NOTCH signalling, IGF2, orphan nuclear receptor LRH-1, and homeobox gene HOXA7, indicating potentially important regulatory roles for these genes during early human folliculogenesis. We also found that FSHR mRNA and protein were present in the earliest stages of preantral follicles, whereas LHR was absent. In conclusion, our data identify specific oocyte and somatic genes in small human follicles that impact early follicle growth, and provide foundation for further analysis of the signalling pathways involved in early human folliculogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stine Gry Kristensen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology - Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Pernille Ebbesen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology - Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Claus Yding Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology - Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Makker A, Goel MM, Mahdi AA. PI3K/PTEN/Akt and TSC/mTOR signaling pathways, ovarian dysfunction, and infertility: an update. J Mol Endocrinol 2014; 53:R103-18. [PMID: 25312969 DOI: 10.1530/jme-14-0220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Abnormalities in ovarian function, including defective oogenesis and folliculogenesis, represent a key female reproductive deficiency. Accumulating evidence in the literature has shown that the PI3K/PTEN/Akt and TSC/mTOR signaling pathways are critical regulators of ovarian function including quiescence, activation, and survival of primordial follicles, granulosa cell proliferation and differentiation, and meiotic maturation of oocytes. Dysregulation of these signaling pathways may contribute to infertility caused by impaired follicular development, intrafollicular oocyte development, and ovulation. This article reviews the current state of knowledge of the functional role of the PI3K/PTEN/Akt and TSC/mTOR pathways during mammalian oogenesis and folliculogenesis and their association with female infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annu Makker
- Post-Graduate Department of PathologyDepartment of BiochemistryKing George's Medical University, Lucknow 226003, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Madhu Mati Goel
- Post-Graduate Department of PathologyDepartment of BiochemistryKing George's Medical University, Lucknow 226003, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Abbas Ali Mahdi
- Post-Graduate Department of PathologyDepartment of BiochemistryKing George's Medical University, Lucknow 226003, Uttar Pradesh, India
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Multi-tissue omics analyses reveal molecular regulatory networks for puberty in composite beef cattle. PLoS One 2014; 9:e102551. [PMID: 25048735 PMCID: PMC4105537 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0102551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2014] [Accepted: 06/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Puberty is a complex physiological event by which animals mature into an adult capable of sexual reproduction. In order to enhance our understanding of the genes and regulatory pathways and networks involved in puberty, we characterized the transcriptome of five reproductive tissues (i.e. hypothalamus, pituitary gland, ovary, uterus, and endometrium) as well as tissues known to be relevant to growth and metabolism needed to achieve puberty (i.e., longissimus dorsi muscle, adipose, and liver). These tissues were collected from pre- and post-pubertal Brangus heifers (3/8 Brahman; Bos indicus x 5/8 Angus; Bos taurus) derived from a population of cattle used to identify quantitative trait loci associated with fertility traits (i.e., age of first observed corpus luteum (ACL), first service conception (FSC), and heifer pregnancy (HPG)). In order to exploit the power of complementary omics analyses, pre- and post-puberty co-expression gene networks were constructed by combining the results from genome-wide association studies (GWAS), RNA-Seq, and bovine transcription factors. Eight tissues among pre-pubertal and post-pubertal Brangus heifers revealed 1,515 differentially expressed and 943 tissue-specific genes within the 17,832 genes confirmed by RNA-Seq analysis. The hypothalamus experienced the most notable up-regulation of genes via puberty (i.e., 204 out of 275 genes). Combining the results of GWAS and RNA-Seq, we identified 25 loci containing a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) associated with ACL, FSC, and (or) HPG. Seventeen of these SNP were within a gene and 13 of the genes were expressed in uterus or endometrium. Multi-tissue omics analyses revealed 2,450 co-expressed genes relative to puberty. The pre-pubertal network had 372,861 connections whereas the post-pubertal network had 328,357 connections. A sub-network from this process revealed key transcriptional regulators (i.e., PITX2, FOXA1, DACH2, PROP1, SIX6, etc.). Results from these multi-tissue omics analyses improve understanding of the number of genes and their complex interactions for puberty in cattle.
Collapse
|
35
|
Effects of jacalin and follicle-stimulating hormone on in vitro goat primordial follicle activation, survival and gene expression. ZYGOTE 2014; 23:537-49. [DOI: 10.1017/s0967199414000173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
SummaryThis study aims to investigate the effects of jacalin and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) on activation and survival of goat primordial follicles, as well as on gene expression in cultured ovarian tissue. Ovarian fragments were cultured for 6 days in minimum essential medium (MEM) supplemented with jacalin (10, 25, 50 or 100 μg/ml – Experiment 1) or in MEM supplemented with jacalin (50 μg/ml), FSH (50 ng/ml) or both (Experiment 2). Non-cultured and cultured tissues were processed for histological and ultrastructural analysis. Cultured tissues from Experiment 2 were also stored to evaluate the expression of BMP-15, KL (Kit ligand), c-kit, GDF-9 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The results of Experiment 1 showed that, compared with tissue that was cultured in control medium, the presence of 50 μg/ml of jacalin increased both the percentages of developing follicles and viability. In Experiment 2, after 6 days, higher percentages of normal follicles were observed in tissue cultured in presence of FSH, jacalin or both, but no synergistic interaction between FSH and jacalin was observed. These substances had no significant effect on the levels of mRNA for BMP-15 and KL, but FSH increased significantly the levels of mRNA for PCNA and c-kit. On the other hand, jacalin reduced the levels of mRNA for GDF-9. In conclusion, jacalin and FSH are able to improve primordial follicle activation and survival after 6 days of culture. Furthermore, presence of FSH increases the expression of mRNA for PCNA and c-kit, but jacalin resulted in lower GDF-9 mRNA expression.
Collapse
|
36
|
Tsutsumi M, Fujiwara R, Nishizawa H, Ito M, Kogo H, Inagaki H, Ohye T, Kato T, Fujii T, Kurahashi H. Age-related decrease of meiotic cohesins in human oocytes. PLoS One 2014; 9:e96710. [PMID: 24806359 PMCID: PMC4013030 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0096710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2013] [Accepted: 04/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Aneuploidy in fetal chromosomes is one of the causes of pregnancy loss and of congenital birth defects. It is known that the frequency of oocyte aneuploidy increases with the human maternal age. Recent data have highlighted the contribution of cohesin complexes in the correct segregation of meiotic chromosomes. In mammalian oocytes, cohesion is established during the fetal stages and meiosis-specific cohesin subunits are not replenished after birth, raising the possibility that the long meiotic arrest of oocytes facilitates a deterioration of cohesion that leads to age-related increases in aneuploidy. We here examined the cohesin levels in dictyate oocytes from different age groups of humans and mice by immunofluorescence analyses of ovarian sections. The meiosis-specific cohesin subunits, REC8 and SMC1B, were found to be decreased in women aged 40 and over compared with those aged around 20 years (P<0.01). Age-related decreases in meiotic cohesins were also evident in mice. Interestingly, SMC1A, the mitotic counterpart of SMC1B, was substantially detectable in human oocytes, but little expressed in mice. Further, the amount of mitotic cohesins of mice slightly increased with age. These results suggest that, mitotic and meiotic cohesins may operate in a coordinated way to maintain cohesions over a sustained period in humans and that age-related decreases in meiotic cohesin subunits impair sister chromatid cohesion leading to increased segregation errors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Makiko Tsutsumi
- Division of Molecular Genetics, Institute for Comprehensive Medical Science, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
| | - Reiko Fujiwara
- Division of Molecular Genetics, Institute for Comprehensive Medical Science, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
| | - Haruki Nishizawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
| | - Mayuko Ito
- Division of Molecular Genetics, Institute for Comprehensive Medical Science, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kogo
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Hidehito Inagaki
- Division of Molecular Genetics, Institute for Comprehensive Medical Science, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
| | - Tamae Ohye
- Division of Molecular Genetics, Institute for Comprehensive Medical Science, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
| | - Takema Kato
- Division of Molecular Genetics, Institute for Comprehensive Medical Science, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
| | - Takuma Fujii
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
| | - Hiroki Kurahashi
- Division of Molecular Genetics, Institute for Comprehensive Medical Science, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Van Langendonckt A, Romeu L, Ambroise J, Amorim C, Bearzatto B, Gala JL, Donnez J, Dolmans MM. Gene expression in human ovarian tissue after xenografting. Mol Hum Reprod 2014; 20:514-25. [PMID: 24586055 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gau015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryobanking and transplantation of ovarian tissue is a promising approach to restore fertility in cancer patients. However, ischemic stress following avascular ovarian cortex grafting is known to induce stromal tissue fibrosis and alterations in follicular development. The aim of the study was to analyze the impact of freeze-thawing and grafting procedures on gene expression in human ovarian tissue. Frozen-thawed ovarian tissue from 14 patients was xenografted for 7 days to nude mice and one ungrafted fragment was used as a control. Immediately after recovery, grafts were processed for RNA extraction and histological analysis. Their expression profile was screened by whole-genome oligonucleotide array (n = 4) and validated by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain analysis (n = 10). After data filtering, the Limma package was used to build a linear regression model for each gene and to compute its fold change between tissues on Days 0 and 7. After adjusting the P-value by the Sidak method, 84 of the transcripts were significantly altered after 7 days of grafting, including matrix metalloproteinase-9 and -14 and angiogenic factors such as placental growth factor and C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4). Major biological processes were related to tissue remodeling, including secretory processes, cellular adhesion and response to chemical and hormonal stimuli. Angiopoietin signaling, the interleukin-8 pathway and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor activation were shown to be differentially regulated. On Day 7, overexpression was confirmed by PCR for interleukin-8, transforming growth factor-beta 1, matrix metalloproteinase-14 and CXCR4, compared with ungrafted controls. In conclusion, new as well as known genes involved in tissue restructuring and angiogenesis were identified and found to play a key role during the first days after human ovarian tissue transplantation. This will facilitate the development of strategies to optimize grafting techniques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Van Langendonckt
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - L Romeu
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - J Ambroise
- Centre de Technologies Moléculaires Appliquées, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - C Amorim
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - B Bearzatto
- Centre de Technologies Moléculaires Appliquées, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - J L Gala
- Centre de Technologies Moléculaires Appliquées, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - J Donnez
- Société de Recherche pour l'Infertilité (SRI), B-1150 Brussels, Belgium
| | - M M Dolmans
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Bonnet A, Cabau C, Bouchez O, Sarry J, Marsaud N, Foissac S, Woloszyn F, Mulsant P, Mandon-Pepin B. An overview of gene expression dynamics during early ovarian folliculogenesis: specificity of follicular compartments and bi-directional dialog. BMC Genomics 2013; 14:904. [PMID: 24350644 PMCID: PMC3890531 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-14-904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2013] [Accepted: 12/10/2013] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Successful early folliculogenesis is crucial for female reproductive function. It requires appropriate gene specific expression of the different types of ovarian cells at different developmental stages. To date, most gene expression studies on the ovary were conducted in rodents and did not distinguish the type of cell. In mono-ovulating species, few studies have addressed gene expression profiles and mainly concerned human oocytes. Results We used a laser capture microdissection method combined with RNA-seq technology to explore the transcriptome in oocytes and granulosa cells (GCs) during development of the sheep ovarian follicle. We first documented the expression profile of 15 349 genes, then focused on the 5 129 genes showing differential expression between oocytes and GCs. Enriched functional categories such as oocyte meiotic arrest and GC steroid synthesis reflect two distinct cell fates. We identified the implication of GC signal transduction pathways such as SHH, WNT and RHO GTPase. In addition, signaling pathways (VEGF, NOTCH, IGF1, etc.) and GC transzonal projections suggest the existence of complex cell-cell interactions. Finally, we highlighted several transcription regulators and specifically expressed genes that likely play an important role in early folliculogenesis. Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive exploration of transcriptomes derived from in vivo oocytes and GCs at key stages in early follicular development in sheep. Collectively, our data advance our understanding of early folliculogenesis in mono-ovulating species and will be a valuable resource for unraveling human ovarian dysfunction such as premature ovarian failure (POF).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agnes Bonnet
- INRA, UMR444 Génétique Cellulaire, Auzeville, BP52627, F-31326, Castanet-Tolosan, France.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Labrecque R, Sirard MA. The study of mammalian oocyte competence by transcriptome analysis: progress and challenges. Mol Hum Reprod 2013; 20:103-16. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gat082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
|
40
|
Shi K, He F, Yuan X, Zhao Y, Deng X, Hu X, Li N. Genome-scale gene expression characteristics define the follicular initiation and developmental rules during folliculogenesis. Mamm Genome 2013; 24:266-75. [DOI: 10.1007/s00335-013-9461-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2013] [Accepted: 05/20/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
|
41
|
Christenson LK, Gunewardena S, Hong X, Spitschak M, Baufeld A, Vanselow J. Research resource: preovulatory LH surge effects on follicular theca and granulosa transcriptomes. Mol Endocrinol 2013; 27:1153-71. [PMID: 23716604 DOI: 10.1210/me.2013-1093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms that regulate the pivotal transformation processes observed in the follicular wall following the preovulatory LH surge, are still not established, particularly for cells of the thecal layer. To elucidate thecal cell (TC) and granulosa cell (GC) type-specific biologic functions and signaling pathways, large dominant bovine follicles were collected before and 21 hours after an exogenous GnRH-induced LH surge. Antral GCs (aGCs; aspirated by follicular puncture) and membrane-associated GCs (mGCs; scraped from the follicular wall) were compared with TC expression profiles determined by mRNA microarrays. Of the approximately 11 000 total genes expressed in the periovulatory follicle, only 2% of thecal vs 25% of the granulosa genes changed in response to the LH surge. The majority of the 203 LH-regulated thecal genes were also LH regulated in GCs, leaving a total of 57 genes as LH-regulated TC-specific genes. Of the 57 thecal-specific LH-regulated genes, 74% were down-regulated including CYP17A1 and NR5A1, whereas most other genes are being identified for the first time within theca. Many of the newly identified up-regulated thecal genes (eg, PTX3, RND3, PPP4R4) were also up-regulated in granulosa. Minimal expression differences were observed between aGCs and mGCs; however, transcripts encoding extracellular proteins (NID2) and matrix modulators (ADAMTS1, SASH1) dominated these differences. We also identified large numbers of unknown LH-regulated GC genes and discuss their putative roles in ovarian function. This Research Resource provides an easy-to-access global evaluation of LH regulation in TCs and GCs that implicates numerous molecular pathways heretofore unknown within the follicle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lane K Christenson
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, 3075 HLSIC, 3901 Rainbow Boulevard, Kansas City, Kansas 66160, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Grondahl ML, Borup R, Vikesa J, Ernst E, Andersen CY, Lykke-Hartmann K. The dormant and the fully competent oocyte: comparing the transcriptome of human oocytes from primordial follicles and in metaphase II. Mol Hum Reprod 2013; 19:600-17. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gat027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
|
43
|
Gene expression profiling of human oocytes developed and matured in vivo or in vitro. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2013; 2013:879489. [PMID: 23509795 PMCID: PMC3590615 DOI: 10.1155/2013/879489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2012] [Revised: 12/07/2012] [Accepted: 12/08/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The quality of the human oocyte determines the success of fertilization and affects the consequent embryo development, pregnancy and birth; it therefore serves as a basis for human reproduction and fertility. The possibility to evaluate oocyte quality in the in vitro fertilization programme is very limited. The only criterion which is commonly used to evaluate oocyte quality is its morphology. There is a mass of oocytes in the in vitro fertilization programme which are not fertilized in spite of normal morphology. In the past, several attempts focused on oocyte gene expression profiling by different approaches. The results elucidated groups of genes related to the human oocyte. It was confirmed that some factors, such as oocyte in vitro maturation, are detectable at the molecular level of human oocytes and their polar bodies in terms of gene expression profile. Furthermore, the first genetic evaluations of oocyte-like cells developed in vitro from human stem cells of different origin were performed showing that these cells express some genes related to oocytes. All these findings provide some new knowledge and clearer insights into oocyte quality and oogenesis that might be introduced into clinical practice in the future.
Collapse
|
44
|
Santonocito M, Guglielmino MR, Vento M, Ragusa M, Barbagallo D, Borzì P, Casciano I, Scollo P, Romani M, Tatone C, Purrello M, Di Pietro C. The apoptotic transcriptome of the human MII oocyte: characterization and age-related changes. Apoptosis 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s10495-012-0783-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
|
45
|
Hillier SG. Modern methods of fertility preservation: a tribute to Roger Gosden. Mol Hum Reprod 2012; 18:57-8. [PMID: 22287563 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gas003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
|