1
|
Song J, Guo X, Zhang B, Zhang Q, Han Y, Cao D, Yao Y. Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived Exosomes Improved The Aged Mouse IVM Oocytes Quality. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:2808-2819. [PMID: 38689080 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01566-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
During assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment, the aged women, especially those over 35 years old, have fewer mature oocytes and poorer quality of the oocytes comparing with the young women. In vitro maturation (IVM) technology facilitates the usage of immature oocytes, which is clinically important for the aged women. However, the maturation rate is low for the oocytes from the aged women. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells derived exosomes (HUCMSCs-exosomes), as important mediators of intercellular communication, have been widely used to restore ovarian function and improve female fertility. In this study, we isolated HUCMSCs-exosomes and collected the immature germinal vesicle oocytes from the naturally aged mouse model. And we added these HUCMSCs-exosomes to the conventional IVM culture system. The effects of HUCMSCs-exosomes on IVM oocytes were observed and analyzed from multiple aspects including maturation rate, spindle morphology, mitochondria function, and development potential. We found the quality of oocytes was improved by HUCMSCs-exosomes. Based on the results, we propose that HUCMSCs-exosomes may provide a novel and cell free strategy in the improvement of the IVM in elderly infertile women in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiangnan Song
- Medical School of Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), Beijing, China
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xinmeng Guo
- College of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Bolun Zhang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- College of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- College of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | | | - Dandan Cao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Yuanqing Yao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China.
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine and Prenatal Diagnosis Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Li Y, Chang HM, Zhu H, Sun YP, Leung PCK. EGF-like growth factors upregulate pentraxin 3 expression in human granulosa-lutein cells. J Ovarian Res 2024; 17:97. [PMID: 38720330 PMCID: PMC11077866 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-024-01404-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like factors, comprising amphiregulin (AREG), betacellulin (BTC), and epiregulin (EREG), play a critical role in regulating the ovulatory process. Pentraxin 3 (PTX3), an essential ovulatory protein, is necessary for maintaining extracellular matrix (ECM) stability during cumulus expansion. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of EGF-like factors, AREG, BTC, and EREG on the expression and production of PTX3 in human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells and the molecular mechanisms involved. Our results demonstrated that AREG, BTC, and EREG could regulate follicular function by upregulating the expression and increasing the production of PTX3 in both primary (obtained from 20 consenting patients undergoing IVF treatment) and immortalized hGL cells. The upregulation of PTX3 expression was primarily facilitated by the activation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) signaling pathway, induced by these EGF-like factors. In addition, we found that the upregulation of PTX3 expression triggered by the EGF-like factors was completely reversed by either pretreatment with the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor, AG1478, or knockdown of EGFR, suggesting that EGFR is crucial for activating the ERK1/2 signaling pathway in hGL cells. Overall, our findings indicate that AREG, BTC, and EREG may modulate human cumulus expansion during the periovulatory stage through the upregulation of PTX3.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuxi Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Provincial Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hua Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada
| | - Ying-Pu Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
- Henan Provincial Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4H4, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Uju CN, Unniappan S. Growth factors and female reproduction in vertebrates. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 579:112091. [PMID: 37863469 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.112091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Female reproductive efficiency is influenced by the outcomes of various processes, including folliculogenesis, apoptosis, response to gonadotropin signaling, oocyte maturation, and ovulation. The role of hormones in regulating these processes and other reproductive activities has been well established. It is becoming increasingly evident that in addition to well-characterized hormones, growth factors play vital roles in regulating some of these reproductive activities. Growth factors and their receptors are widely distributed in vertebrate ovaries at different stages of ovarian development, indicating their involvement in intraovarian reproductive functions. In the ovary, cell surface receptors allow growth factors to regulate intraovarian reproductive activities. Understanding these actions in the reproductive axis would provide a tool to target growth factors and/or their receptors to yield desirable reproductive outcomes. These include enrichment of in vitro maturation and fertilization culture media, and management of infertility. This review discusses some widely characterized growth factors belonging to the TGF, EGF, IGF, FGF, and BDNF family of peptides and their role in female reproduction in vertebrates, with a focus on mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chinelo N Uju
- Laboratory of Integrative Neuroendocrinology, Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Suraj Unniappan
- Laboratory of Integrative Neuroendocrinology, Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7N 5B4, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Pei Z, Deng K, Xu C, Zhang S. The molecular regulatory mechanisms of meiotic arrest and resumption in Oocyte development and maturation. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:90. [PMID: 37784186 PMCID: PMC10544615 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01143-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In human female primordial germ cells, the transition from mitosis to meiosis begins from the fetal stage. In germ cells, meiosis is arrested at the diplotene stage of prophase in meiosis I (MI) after synapsis and recombination of homologous chromosomes, which cannot be segregated. Within the follicle, the maintenance of oocyte meiotic arrest is primarily attributed to high cytoplasmic concentrations of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). Depending on the specific species, oocytes can remain arrested for extended periods of time, ranging from months to even years. During estrus phase in animals or the menstrual cycle in humans, the resumption of meiosis occurs in certain oocytes due to a surge of luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. Any factor interfering with this process may lead to impaired oocyte maturation, which in turn affects female reproductive function. Nevertheless, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon has not been systematically summarized yet. To provide a comprehensive understanding of the recently uncovered regulatory network involved in oocyte development and maturation, the progress of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of oocyte nuclear maturation including meiosis arrest and meiosis resumption is summarized. Additionally, the advancements in understanding the molecular cytoplasmic events occurring in oocytes, such as maternal mRNA degradation, posttranslational regulation, and organelle distribution associated with the quality of oocyte maturation, are reviewed. Therefore, understanding the pathways regulating oocyte meiotic arrest and resumption will provide detailed insight into female reproductive system and provide a theoretical basis for further research and potential approaches for novel disease treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenle Pei
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics & IVF Institute, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Ke Deng
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics & IVF Institute, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Congjian Xu
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics & IVF Institute, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Shuo Zhang
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics & IVF Institute, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Conte JG, Tellechea ML, Park B, Ballerini MG, Jaita G, Peluffo MC. Interaction between epidermal growth factor receptor and C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 in the ovulatory cascade. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1161813. [PMID: 37082622 PMCID: PMC10110862 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1161813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling pathway is one of the main pathways responsible for propagating the luteinizing hormone (LH) signal throughout the cumulus cells and the oocyte. Recently, we have proposed the C-C motif chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2) and its main ligand (monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, MCP1) as novel mediators of the ovulatory cascade. Our previous results demonstrate that the gonadotropins (GNT), amphiregulin (AREG), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) stimulation of periovulatory gene mRNA levels occurs, at least in part, through the CCR2/MCP1 pathway, proposing the CCR2 receptor as a novel mediator of the ovulatory cascade in a feline model. For that purpose, feline cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were cultured in the presence or absence of an EGFR inhibitor, recombinant chemokine MCP1, and gonadotropins [as an inducer of cumulus-oocyte expansion (C-OE), and oocyte maturation] to further assess the mRNA expression of periovulatory key genes, C-OE, oocyte nuclear maturation, and steroid hormone production. We observed that MCP1 was able to revert the inhibition of AREG mRNA expression by an EGFR inhibitor within the feline COC. In accordance, the confocal analysis showed that the GNT-stimulated hyaluronic acid (HA) synthesis, blocked by the EGFR inhibitor, was recovered by the addition of recombinant MCP1 in the C-OE culture media. Also, MCP1 was able to revert the inhibition of progesterone (P4) production by EGFR inhibitor in the C-OE culture media. Regarding oocyte nuclear maturation, recombinant MCP1 could also revert the inhibition triggered by the EGFR inhibitor, leading to a recovery in the percentage of metaphase II (MII)-stage oocytes. In conclusion, our results confirm the chemokine receptor CCR2 as a novel intermediate in the ovulatory cascade and demonstrate that the EGFR/AREG and the CCR2/MCP1 signaling pathways play critical roles in regulating feline C-OE and oocyte nuclear maturation, with CCR2/MCP1 signaling pathway being downstream EGFR/AREG pathway within the ovulatory cascade.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J. G. Conte
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET—FEI—División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina CONICET- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M. L. Tellechea
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET—FEI—División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - B. Park
- Biostatistics Shared Resource, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - M. G. Ballerini
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET—FEI—División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - G. Jaita
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina CONICET- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Biología Celular e Histología, Facultad de Medicina-Universidad de Buenos Aires Buenos, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M. C. Peluffo
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET—FEI—División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Peserico A, Di Berardino C, Capacchietti G, Camerano Spelta Rapini C, Liverani L, Boccaccini AR, Russo V, Mauro A, Barboni B. IVM Advances for Early Antral Follicle-Enclosed Oocytes Coupling Reproductive Tissue Engineering to Inductive Influences of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin and Ovarian Surface Epithelium Coculture. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076626. [PMID: 37047595 PMCID: PMC10095509 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In vitro maturation (IVM) is not a routine assisted reproductive technology (ART) for oocytes collected from early antral (EA) follicles, a large source of potentially available gametes. Despite substantial improvements in IVM in the past decade, the outcomes remain low for EA-derived oocytes due to their reduced developmental competences. To optimize IVM for ovine EA-derived oocytes, a three-dimensional (3D) scaffold-mediated follicle-enclosed oocytes (FEO) system was compared with a validated cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) protocol. Gonadotropin stimulation (eCG and/or hCG) and/or somatic cell coculture (ovarian vs. extraovarian-cell source) were supplied to both systems. The maturation rate and parthenogenetic activation were significantly improved by combining hCG stimulation with ovarian surface epithelium (OSE) cells coculture exclusively on the FEO system. Based on the data, the paracrine factors released specifically from OSE enhanced the hCG-triggering of oocyte maturation mechanisms by acting through the mural compartment (positive effect on FEO and not on COC) by stimulating the EGFR signaling. Overall, the FEO system performed on a developed reproductive scaffold proved feasible and reliable in promoting a synergic cytoplasmatic and nuclear maturation, offering a novel cultural strategy to widen the availability of mature gametes for ART.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Peserico
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Chiara Di Berardino
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Giulia Capacchietti
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Chiara Camerano Spelta Rapini
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Liliana Liverani
- Institute of Biomaterials, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- DGS S.p.A., 00142 Rome, Italy
| | - Aldo Roberto Boccaccini
- Institute of Biomaterials, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Valentina Russo
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Annunziata Mauro
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Barbara Barboni
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Fang L, Sun YP, Cheng JC. The role of amphiregulin in ovarian function and disease. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:60. [PMID: 36749397 PMCID: PMC11071807 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04709-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Amphiregulin (AREG) is an epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like growth factor that binds exclusively to the EGF receptor (EGFR). Treatment with luteinizing hormone (LH) and/or human chorionic gonadotropin dramatically induces the expression of AREG in the granulosa cells of the preovulatory follicle. In addition, AREG is the most abundant EGFR ligand in human follicular fluid. Therefore, AREG is considered a predominant propagator that mediates LH surge-regulated ovarian functions in an autocrine and/or paracrine manner. In addition to the well-characterized stimulatory effect of LH on AREG expression, recent studies discovered that several local factors and epigenetic modifications participate in the regulation of ovarian AREG expression. Moreover, aberrant expression of AREG has recently been reported to contribute to the pathogenesis of several ovarian diseases, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome, and epithelial ovarian cancer. Furthermore, increasing evidence has elucidated new applications of AREG in assisted reproductive technology. Collectively, these studies highlight the importance of AREG in female reproductive health and disease. Understanding the normal and pathological roles of AREG and elucidating the molecular and cellular mechanisms of AREG regulation of ovarian functions will inform innovative approaches for fertility regulation and the prevention and treatment of ovarian diseases. Therefore, this review summarizes the functional roles of AREG in ovarian function and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lanlan Fang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Ying-Pu Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Jung-Chien Cheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 40, Daxue Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Nazifi S, Nazari H, Hassanpour H, Ahmadi E, Afzali A. Co‐culturing or conditioned medium of Sertoli cells: Which one supports in vitro maturation of bovine oocytes and developmental competency of resulting embryos? Vet Med Sci 2022; 8:2646-2654. [DOI: 10.1002/vms3.939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sina Nazifi
- DVM Graduate Student, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Shahrekord University Shahrekord Iran
| | - Hassan Nazari
- Research Institute of Animal Embryo Technology Shahrekord University Shahrekord Iran
| | - Hossein Hassanpour
- Department of Basic Sciences Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahrekord University Shahrekord Iran
| | - Ebrahim Ahmadi
- Research Institute of Animal Embryo Technology Shahrekord University Shahrekord Iran
| | - Azita Afzali
- Clinical Embryologist Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences Shahrekord Iran
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Zhang X, Zhao H, Li Y, Zhang Y, Liang Y, Shi J, Zhou R, Hong L, Cai G, Wu Z, Li Z. Amphiregulin Supplementation During Pig Oocyte In Vitro Maturation Enhances Subsequent Development of Cloned Embryos by Promoting Cumulus Cell Proliferation. Cell Reprogram 2022; 24:175-185. [PMID: 35861708 DOI: 10.1089/cell.2022.0015] [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: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The oocyte in vitro maturation (IVM) technique is important in animal husbandry, biomedicine, and human-assisted reproduction. However, the developmental potential of in vitro matured oocytes is usually lower than that of in vivo matured (IVVM) oocytes. Amphiregulin (AREG) is an EGF-like growth factor that plays critical roles in the maturation and development of mammalian oocytes. This study investigated the effects of AREG supplementation during pig oocyte IVM on the subsequent development of cloned embryos. The addition of AREG to pig oocyte IVM medium improved the developmental competence of treated oocyte-derived cloned embryos by enhancing the expansion and proliferation of cumulus cells (CCs) during IVM. The positive effect of AREG on enhancing the quality of IVVM pig oocytes might be due to the activation of proliferation-related pathways in CCs by acting on the AREG receptor. The present study provides an AREG treatment-based method to improve the developmental competence of cloned pig embryos.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xianjun Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huaxing Zhao
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanan Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuxing Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yalin Liang
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junsong Shi
- Guangdong Wens Pig Breeding Technology Co., Ltd., Yunfu, China
| | - Rong Zhou
- Guangdong Wens Pig Breeding Technology Co., Ltd., Yunfu, China
| | - Linjun Hong
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gengyuan Cai
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenfang Wu
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zicong Li
- National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.,State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Sequential IVM by CNP preincubation and cooperating of PGE2 with AREG enhances developmental competence of SCNT reconstructs in goat. Sci Rep 2022; 12:4243. [PMID: 35273320 PMCID: PMC8913792 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-08238-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Developmental competence of in vitro matured cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) in conventional IVM (C.IVM) is lower than in vivo maturated COCs and is related to unsynchronized nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation. To overcome this dearth, COCs can be exposed to granulosa secreted factors in a two-step system. Therefore, in the first experiment, 1000 nM of C-type natriuretic peptide for 8 h was determined (CAPA), as the best time and concentration to retain oocytes in germinal vesicle stage. This condition, also reduces lipid droplets and increases the expression of ATGL and PLIN2 involved in lipolysis and lipogenesis, respectively. In the second experiment, maturation was stimulated with prostaglandin E2 and amphiregulin for 18 h (CAPA-IVM), and their optimal concentrations based on blastocyst formation rates through in vitro fertilization (IVF) were determined as 1 and 600 nM, respectively. In the third experiment, the in vitro and in vivo developmental competency of SCNT embryos in CAPA-IVM group were determined. Despite similar blastocyst formation rates in IVF and SCNT between CAPA-IVM and C.IVM, the quality of blastocysts were quality was higher in CAPA-IVM, which reflected itself, as higher ICM/TE ratio and also expression of NANOG in SCNT blastocysts. Pregnancy rate, live births rate and SCNT efficiency were not significant between CAPA-IVM and C.IVM groups. Therefore, CAPA-IVM can improve the developmental competency of SCNT derived embryos.
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Oxidative stress causes several diseases and dysfunctions in cells, including oocytes. Clearly, oxidative stress influences oocyte quality during in vitro maturation and fertilization. Here we tested the ability of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) to reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) and improve mouse oocyte quality during in vitro culture. Treatment with 50 μM CoQ10 efficiently reduced ROS levels in oocytes cultured in vitro. The fertilizable form of an oocyte usually contains a cortical granule-free domain (CGFD). CoQ10 enhanced the ratio of CGFD-oocytes from 35% to 45%. However, the hardening of the zona pellucida in oocytes was not affected by CoQ10 treatment. The in vitro maturation capacity of oocytes, which was determined by the first polar body extrusion, was enhanced from 48.9% to 75.7% by the addition of CoQ10 to the culture medium. During the parthenogenesis process, the number of two-cell embryos was increased by CoQ10 from 43.5% to 67.3%. Additionally, treatment with CoQ10 increased the expression of Bcl2 and Sirt1 in cumulus cells. These results suggested that CoQ10 had a positive effect on ROS reduction, maturation rate and two-cell embryo formation in mouse oocyte culture.
Collapse
|
12
|
Bezerra FTG, Paulino LRFM, Silva BR, Silva AWB, Souza Batista ALP, Silva JRV. Effects of epidermal growth factor and progesterone on oocyte meiotic resumption and the expression of maturation-related transcripts during prematuration of oocytes from small and medium-sized bovine antral follicles. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 32:1190-1199. [PMID: 32943135 DOI: 10.1071/rd20099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
This study evaluated the effects of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and progesterone (P4) on growth, the resumption of meiosis and expression of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E(eIF4E), poly(A)-specific ribonuclease (PARN), oocyte-specific histone H1 (H1FOO), oocyte maturation factor Mos (cMOS), growth differentiation factor-9 (GDF9) and cyclin B1 (CCNB1) mRNA in oocytes from small and medium-sized antral follicles after prematuration and maturation invitro. Oocytes from small (<2.0mm) and medium (3.0-6.0mm) antral follicles were cultured in medium containing EGF (10ng mL-1), P4 (100 µM) or both. After culture, growth rate, resumption of meiosis and eIF4E, PARN, H1FOO, cMOS, GDF9 and CCNB1 mRNA levels were evaluated. P4 increased cMOS, H1FOO and CCNB1 mRNA levels after the culture of oocytes from small antral follicles, and EGF increased CCNB1 mRNA levels in these oocytes. In the medium-sized antral follicles, P4 alone or in combination with EGF increased oocyte diameter after prematuration invitro. In these oocytes, the presence of either EGF or P4 in the culture medium increased cMOS mRNA levels. In conclusion, P4 increases cMOS, H1FOO and CCNB1 mRNA levels after the culture of oocytes from small antral follicles. P4 and the combination of EGF and P4 promote the growth of oocytes from medium-sized antral follicles, and both EGF and P4 increase cMOS mRNA levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Taiã G Bezerra
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction, Federal University of Ceara, Sobral-CE, Brazil
| | - Laís R F M Paulino
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction, Federal University of Ceara, Sobral-CE, Brazil
| | - Bianca R Silva
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction, Federal University of Ceara, Sobral-CE, Brazil
| | - Anderson W B Silva
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction, Federal University of Ceara, Sobral-CE, Brazil
| | - Ana L P Souza Batista
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction, Federal University of Ceara, Sobral-CE, Brazil
| | - José R V Silva
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction, Federal University of Ceara, Sobral-CE, Brazil; and Corresponding author.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Suresh A, Shukla MK, Kumar D, Shrivastava OP, Verma N. Simulated physiological oocyte maturation (SPOM) improves developmental competence of in vitro produced goat embryos. Theriogenology 2021; 172:193-199. [PMID: 34246165 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The effect of simulated physiological oocyte maturation on the developmental competence, reactive oxygen species production and apoptosis rate of in vitro produced goat embryos were studied in the present experiment. Oocytes and spermatozoa were recovered from ovaries and epididymis, respectively, procured from a local small animal abattoir. The oocytes aspirated from the ovaries were allocated into two groups, control (subjected to routine in vitro maturation, fertilization and culture) and simulated physiological oocyte maturation (SPOM) group (subjected to prematuration, followed by routine in vitro maturation, fertilization and culture). The SPOM group showed a significantly (p < 0.05) higher maturation and blastocyst rates (90.60 ± 0.46% and 29.09 ± 2.59%, respectively) as compared to the control group (85.29 ± 0.98% and 24.09 ± 1.08%). The intensity of reactive oxygen species of the embryos in the control group (14.98 ± 0.83 pixels/embryo) was significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the SPOM group (9.60 ± 0.76 pixels/embryo). The apoptosis rate was also significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the embryos of the control group (9.18 ± 1.07%) as compared to the SPOM group (5.71 ± 0.90%). In conclusion, the simulated physiological oocyte maturation system significantly increases the developmental competence of the oocytes and decreases the intensity of reactive oxygen species and embryonic apoptosis in abattoir derived goat embryos.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashitha Suresh
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India; Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Madras Veterinary College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - M K Shukla
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India; Department of Veterinary Gynaecology & Obstetrics, College of Veterinary and Animal Science, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture & Technology, Meerut, 250110, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| | - Dharmendra Kumar
- Animal Biotechnology Centre, Nanaji Deshmukh Veterinary Science University, Adhartaal, Jabalpur, 482004, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - O P Shrivastava
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Neeraj Verma
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Cao Z, Tong X, Yin H, Zhou N, Zhang X, Zhang M, Wang X, Liu Q, Yan Y, Ma Y, Yu T, Li Y, Zhang Y. Histone Arginine Methyltransferase CARM1-Mediated H3R26me2 Is Essential for Morula-to-Blastocyst Transition in Pigs. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:678282. [PMID: 34150772 PMCID: PMC8206646 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.678282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Coactivator-associated arginine methyltransferase 1 (CARM1) is involved in both establishment of first pluripotent lineage and pluripotency maintenance of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) in mice. However, the histone substrates and role of CARM1 in early embryonic development remain largely unknown. Here, we show that CARM1 specifically catalyzes H3R26me2 to promote porcine blastocyst formation. The putative histone substrates of CARM1, including H3R2me2, H3R17me2, and H3R26me2, are present in pig early embryos. The changes of CARM1 mRNA during early embryogenesis parallel that of H3R26me2. Functional studies using a combinational approach of chemical inhibition and RNA interference (RNAi) showed that catalytic activity inhibition of CARM1 protein or knockdown (KD) of CARM1 mRNA did not alter the levels of both H3R2me2 and H3R17me2, but significantly reduced H3R26me2 levels in porcine embryos. Furthermore, CARM1 inhibition or KD did not affect embryo development to the 2-cell, 4-cell, 8-cell, and morula stages, but severely compromised blastocyst development. CARM1 knocked down embryos that developed to the blastocyst stage had fewer total cells, inner cell mass (ICM), and trophectoderm (TE) cells. Mechanistically, single embryo RNA-sequencing analysis revealed that CARM1 KD altered the transcriptome characterized by downregulation of key genes associated with Hippo and PI3K-AKT signaling pathways. Taken together, these results demonstrate that CARM1 specifically catalyzes H3R26me2 in porcine embryos and participates in blastocyst development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zubing Cao
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Xu Tong
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Huiqun Yin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The 901st Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Naru Zhou
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Branch, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Xiangdong Zhang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Mengya Zhang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Qiuchen Liu
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Yelian Yan
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Yangyang Ma
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Tong Yu
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Yunsheng Li
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Yunhai Zhang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Zhang H, Lu S, Xu R, Tang Y, Liu J, Li C, Wei J, Yao R, Zhao X, Wei Q, Ma B. Mechanisms of Estradiol-induced EGF-like Factor Expression and Oocyte Maturation via G Protein-coupled Estrogen Receptor. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5929646. [PMID: 33068422 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen is an important modulator of reproductive activity through nuclear receptors and G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER). Here, we observed that both estradiol and the GPER-specific agonist G1 rapidly induced cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) production in cumulus cells, leading to transient stimulation of phosphorylated cAMP response element binding protein (CREB), which was conducive to the transcription of epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like factors, amphiregulin, epiregulin, and betacellulin. Inhibition of GPER by G15 significantly reduced estradiol-induced CREB phosphorylation and EGF-like factor gene expression. Consistently, the silencing of GPER expression in cultured cumulus cells abrogated the estradiol-induced CREB phosphorylation and EGF-like factor transcription. In addition, the increase in EGF-like factor expression in the cumulus cells is associated with EGF receptor (EFGR) tyrosine kinase phosphorylation and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) activation. Furthermore, we demonstrated that GPER-mediated phosphorylation of EGFR and ERK1/2 was involved in reduced gap junction communication, cumulus expansion, increased oocyte mitochondrial activity and first polar body extrusion. Overall, our study identified a novel function for estrogen in regulating EGFR activation via GPER in cumulus cells during oocyte maturation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Sihai Lu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaju Tang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Chan Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Juncai Wei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Ru Yao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoe Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiang Wei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Baohua Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Adib M, Seifati SM, Dehghani Ashkezari M, Akyash F, Khoradmehr A, Aflatoonian B. Effect of Human Testicular Cells Conditioned Medium on In Vitro Maturation and Morphology of Mouse Oocytes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2020; 14:175-184. [PMID: 33098383 PMCID: PMC7604698 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2020.6097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Background Testicular cell conditioned medium (TCCM) has been shown to induce female germ cell development
in vitro from embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Testicular cells (TCs) secrete a variety of growth factors such as growth
differentiation factor-9 (GDF-9), bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP-4), stem cell factor (SCF), leukemia inhibitory
factor (LIF), and other, that could improve oocyte maturation. Here we have investigated the effect of human TCCM
(hTCCM) on in vitro maturation (IVM) and morphology of mouse oocytes. Materials and Methods In this experimental study, 360 germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes were obtained from NMRI
mice, aged 4-6 weeks that had received 5 IU pregnant mare's serum gonadotropin (PMSG) 48 hours before. GV
oocytes were subjected to IVM. 120 GV oocytes were cultured in each medium; hTCCM as the test group, DMEM
+ 20%FBS as the control group and Ham’s F10 + HFF medium as the sham group. The rates of the IVM and perivi-
telline space (PVS) changes were recorded at 8, 16 and 24 hours after culture. The metaphase II (MII) oocytes were
subjected for in vitro fertilization (IVF) and the fertilization rate was evaluated after 1, 2, and 3 days. Results There was a significant difference between the maturation rates in hTCCM (31.67% MII) and the control [0% MII,
P<0.05, (7.5% MI, 52.5% deg. and 40%GV)] groups but there was not a significant difference between the maturation rates
in hTCCM and the sham group (53.33% MII, P>0.05). IVF success rate for MII oocytes obtained from IVM in the hTCCM
group was 28.94% (n=11). Our data showed that hTCCM is an effective medium for GV oocyte growth and maturation
compared to the control medium. Conclusion Our findings show that TCCM supports oocyte IVM in mice and affect oocyte morphology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Adib
- Medical Biotechnology Research Center, Ashkezar Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ashkezar, Yazd, Iran
| | - Seyed Morteza Seifati
- Medical Biotechnology Research Center, Ashkezar Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ashkezar, Yazd, Iran. Electronic Address:
| | | | - Fatemeh Akyash
- Stem Cell Biology Research Center, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,Genetics and Fertility Unit, Erfan Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arezoo Khoradmehr
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,The Persian Gulf Marine Biotechnology Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Behrouz Aflatoonian
- Stem Cell Biology Research Center, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.Electronic Address:.,Department of Reproductive Biology, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,Department of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, School of Paramedicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Richani D, Dunning KR, Thompson JG, Gilchrist RB. Metabolic co-dependence of the oocyte and cumulus cells: essential role in determining oocyte developmental competence. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 27:27-47. [PMID: 33020823 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Within the antral follicle, the oocyte is reliant on metabolic support from its surrounding somatic cells. Metabolism plays a critical role in oocyte developmental competence (oocyte quality). In the last decade, there has been significant progress in understanding the metabolism of the cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) during its final stages of growth and maturation in the follicle. Certain metabolic conditions (e.g. obesity) or ART (e.g. IVM) perturb COC metabolism, providing insights into metabolic regulation of oocyte quality. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review provides an update on the progress made in our understanding of COC metabolism, and the metabolic conditions that influence both meiotic and developmental competence of the oocyte. SEARCH METHODS The PubMed database was used to search for peer-reviewed original and review articles. Searches were performed adopting the main terms 'oocyte metabolism', 'cumulus cell metabolism', 'oocyte maturation', 'oocyte mitochondria', 'oocyte metabolism', 'oocyte developmental competence' and 'oocyte IVM'. OUTCOMES Metabolism is a major determinant of oocyte quality. Glucose is an essential requirement for both meiotic and cytoplasmic maturation of the COC. Glucose is the driver of cumulus cell metabolism and is essential for energy production, extracellular matrix formation and supply of pyruvate to the oocyte for ATP production. Mitochondria are the primary source of ATP production within the oocyte. Recent advances in real-time live cell imaging reveal dynamic fluctuations in ATP demand throughout oocyte maturation. Cumulus cells have been shown to play a central role in maintaining adequate oocyte ATP levels by providing metabolic support through gap junctional communication. New insights have highlighted the importance of oocyte lipid metabolism for oocyte oxidative phosphorylation for ATP production, meiotic progression and developmental competence. Within the last decade, several new strategies for improving the developmental competence of oocytes undergoing IVM have emerged, including modulation of cyclic nucleotides, the addition of precursors for the antioxidant glutathione or endogenous maturation mediators such as epidermal growth factor-like peptides and growth differentiation factor 9/bone morphogenetic protein 15. These IVM additives positively alter COC metabolic endpoints commonly associated with oocyte competence. There remain significant challenges in the study of COC metabolism. Owing to the paucity in non-invasive or in situ techniques to assess metabolism, most work to date has used in vitro or ex vivo models. Additionally, the difficulty of measuring oocyte and cumulus cell metabolism separately while still in a complex has led to the frequent use of denuded oocytes, the results from which should be interpreted with caution since the oocyte and cumulus cell compartments are metabolically interdependent, and oocytes do not naturally exist in a naked state until after fertilization. There are emerging tools, including live fluorescence imaging and photonics probes, which may provide ways to measure the dynamic nature of metabolism in a single oocyte, potentially while in situ. WIDER IMPLICATIONS There is an association between oocyte metabolism and oocyte developmental competence. Advancing our understanding of basic cellular and biochemical mechanisms regulating oocyte metabolism may identify new avenues to augment oocyte quality and assess developmental potential in assisted reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dulama Richani
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Fertility & Research Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kylie R Dunning
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Jeremy G Thompson
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Robert B Gilchrist
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Fertility & Research Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Elshewy N, Ji D, Zhang Z, Chen D, Chen B, Xue R, Wu H, Wang J, Zhou P, Cao Y. Association between mild stimulated IVF/M cycle and early embryo arrest in sub fertile women with/without PCOS. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2020; 18:71. [PMID: 32669130 PMCID: PMC7362506 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-020-00622-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The in vitro maturation (IVM) technique has physical and financial benefits, but a lower efficiency and outcome that is still unclear whether it is related to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) itself or the IVM procedure. In this study, we analyzed the clinical and laboratory outcomes of an optimized IVM protocol in patients with and without PCOS. We also discussed the possible reasons for early embryo arrest in the IVM cycle. METHODS This prospective study involved 58 PCOS patients and 56 non-PCOS patients who underwent mild stimulated IVF combined IVM (IVF/M) cycles. The clinical and laboratory outcomes were compared between the two groups. Also, metaphase II (MII) oocytes were obtained after IVM from the two groups, and in vivo MII oocytes randomly collected from IVF patients were examined for mitochondrial function using a laser scanning confocal microscope (LSCM). The aneuploidy rate for arrested cleavage embryos from IVM and IVF oocytes were screened using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS). RESULTS Mildly stimulated IVF/M resulted in cumulative clinical pregnancy and implantation rates (40.2, 28.7% in the PCOS group vs. 41.9, 36% in the non-PCOS group), respectively. The blastocyst formation rates were comparable (28% vs. 28.2%) in PCOS and non-PCOS groups, respectively. Using LSCM, there was a significant decrease in the mitochondrial membrane potential of IVM oocytes compared with the control IVF oocytes (P < 0.001), but no significant difference between the PCOS and non-PCOS groups. The NGS showed that the aneuploidy rates were comparable (75, 75, and 66.6%) in IVM-PCOS, IVM-non-PCOS, and control IVF arrested embryos, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The mildly stimulated IVF/M protocol produced acceptable clinical outcomes in PCOS and non-PCOS patients. IVM itself rather than the PCOS condition adversely affected the embryo development through its effect on mitochondrial function, which appeared to be a possible cause for the embryo arrest in the IVM cycles rather than chromosomal aneuploidy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nagwa Elshewy
- grid.412679.f0000 0004 1771 3402Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Dongmei Ji
- grid.412679.f0000 0004 1771 3402Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- grid.186775.a0000 0000 9490 772XKey Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Hefei, China
| | - Zhiguo Zhang
- grid.412679.f0000 0004 1771 3402Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Hefei, China
- grid.186775.a0000 0000 9490 772XNHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Dawei Chen
- grid.412679.f0000 0004 1771 3402Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Hefei, China
- grid.186775.a0000 0000 9490 772XNHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Beili Chen
- grid.412679.f0000 0004 1771 3402Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- grid.186775.a0000 0000 9490 772XKey Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Hefei, China
| | - Rufeng Xue
- grid.412679.f0000 0004 1771 3402Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- grid.186775.a0000 0000 9490 772XKey Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Hefei, China
| | - Huan Wu
- grid.412679.f0000 0004 1771 3402Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Hefei, China
| | - Jianye Wang
- grid.412679.f0000 0004 1771 3402Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Hefei, China
| | - Ping Zhou
- grid.412679.f0000 0004 1771 3402Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- grid.186775.a0000 0000 9490 772XKey Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Hefei, China
- grid.186775.a0000 0000 9490 772XNHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research center for Bio preservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| | - Yunxia Cao
- grid.412679.f0000 0004 1771 3402Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- grid.186775.a0000 0000 9490 772XKey Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China, Hefei, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Hefei, China
- grid.186775.a0000 0000 9490 772XNHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research center for Bio preservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Stocker WA, Walton KL, Richani D, Chan KL, Beilby KH, Finger BJ, Green MP, Gilchrist RB, Harrison CA. A variant of human growth differentiation factor-9 that improves oocyte developmental competence. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:7981-7991. [PMID: 32350111 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra120.013050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor-9 (GDF9) and bone morphogenetic protein-15 (BMP15) are co-expressed exclusively in oocytes throughout most of folliculogenesis and play central roles in controlling ovarian physiology. Although both growth factors exist as homodimers, recent evidence indicates that GDF9 and BMP15 can also heterodimerize to form the potent growth factor cumulin. Within the cumulin complex, BMP15 "activates" latent GDF9, enabling potent signaling in granulosa cells via type I receptors (i.e. activin receptor-like kinase-4/5 (ALK4/5)) and SMAD2/3 transcription factors. In the cumulin heterodimer, two distinct type I receptor interfaces are formed compared with homodimeric GDF9 and BMP15. Previous studies have highlighted the potential of cumulin to improve treatment of female infertility, but, as a noncovalent heterodimer, cumulin is difficult to produce and purify without contaminating GDF9 and BMP15 homodimers. In this study we addressed this challenge by focusing on the cumulin interface formed by the helix of the GDF9 chain and the fingers of the BMP15 chain. We demonstrate that unique BMP15 finger residues at this site (Arg301, Gly304, His307, and Met369) enable potent activation of the SMAD2/3 pathway. Incorporating these BMP15 residues into latent GDF9 generated a highly potent growth factor, called hereafter Super-GDF9. Super-GDF9 was >1000-fold more potent than WT human GDF9 and 4-fold more potent than cumulin in SMAD2/3-responsive transcriptional assays in granulosa cells. Our demonstration that Super-GDF9 can effectively promote mouse cumulus cell expansion and improve oocyte quality in vitro represents a potential solution to the current challenges of producing and purifying intact cumulin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- William A Stocker
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kelly L Walton
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Dulama Richani
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of New South Wales Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Karen L Chan
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kiri H Beilby
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bethany J Finger
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark P Green
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robert B Gilchrist
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of New South Wales Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Craig A Harrison
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia .,Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Sánchez F, Lolicato F, Romero S, De Vos M, Van Ranst H, Verheyen G, Anckaert E, Smitz JEJ. An improved IVM method for cumulus-oocyte complexes from small follicles in polycystic ovary syndrome patients enhances oocyte competence and embryo yield. Hum Reprod 2018; 32:2056-2068. [PMID: 28938744 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are meiotic and developmental competence of human oocytes from small (2-8 mm) antral follicles improved by applying an optimized IVM method involving a prematuration step in presence of C-Type Natriuretic Peptide (CNP) followed by a maturation step in presence of FSH and Amphiregulin (AREG)? SUMMARY ANSWER A strategy involving prematuration culture (PMC) in the presence of CNP followed by IVM using FSH + AREG increases oocyte maturation potential leading to a higher availability of Day 3 embryos and good-quality blastocysts for single embryo transfer. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY IVM is a minimal-stimulation ART with reduced hormone-related side effects and risks for the patients, but the approach is not widely used because of an efficiency gap compared to conventional ART. In vitro systems that enhance synchronization of nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation before the meiotic trigger are crucial to optimize human IVM systems. However, previous PMC attempts have failed in sustaining cumulus-oocyte connections throughout the culture period, which prohibited a normal cumulus-oocyte communication and precluded an adequate response by the cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) to the meiotic trigger. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A first prospective study involved sibling oocytes from a group of 15 patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) to evaluate effects of a new IVM culture method on oocyte nuclear maturation and their downstream developmental competence. A second prospective study in an additional series of 15 women with polycystic ovaries characterized and fine-tuned the culture conditions. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Fifteen women with PCOS (according to Rotterdam criteria) underwent IVM treatment after 3-5 days of highly purified human menopausal gonadotropin (HP-hMG) stimulation and no human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) trigger before oocyte retrieval. A first study was designed with sibling oocytes to prospectively evaluate the impact of an IVM culture method: 24 h PMC with CNP + 30 h IVM with FSH and AREG, on embryo yield, in comparison to the standard (30 h) IVM clinical protocol (Group I, n = 15). A second prospective study was performed in 15 women with polycystic ovaries, to characterize and optimize the PMC conditions (Group II, n = 15). The latter study involved the evaluation of oocyte meiotic arrest, the preservation of cumulus-oocyte transzonal projections (TZPs), the patterns of oocyte chromatin configuration and cumulus cells apoptosis following the 24 and 46 h PMC. Furthermore, oocyte developmental potential following PMC (24 and 46 h) + IVM was also evaluated. The first 20 good-quality blastocysts from PMC followed by IVM were analysed by next generation sequencing to evaluate their aneuploidy rate. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE PMC in presence of CNP followed by IVM using FSH and AREG increased the meiotic maturation rate per COC to 70%, which is significantly higher than routine standard IVM (49%; P ≤ 0.001). Hence, with the new system the proportion of COCs yielding transferable Day 3 embryos and good-quality blastocysts increased compared to routine standard IVM (from 23 to 43%; P ≤ 0.001 and from 8 to 18%; P ≤ 0.01, respectively). CNP was able to prevent meiosis resumption for up to 46 h. After PMC, COCs had preserved cumulus-oocyte TZPs. The blastocysts obtained after PMC + IVM did not show increased aneuploidy rates as compared to blastocysts from conventional ART. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION The novel IVM approach in PCOS patients was tested in oocytes derived from small antral follicles which have an intrinsically low developmental potential. Validation of the system would be required for COCs from different (larger) follicular sizes, which may involve further adjustment of PMC conditions. Furthermore, considering that this is a novel strategy in human IVM treatment, its global efficiency needs to be confirmed in large prospective randomized controlled trials. The further application in infertile patients without PCOS, e.g. cancer patients, remains to be evaluated. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The findings of this pilot study suggest that the efficiency gap between IVM and conventional IVF can be reduced by fine-tuning of the culture methods. This novel strategy opens new perspectives for safe and patient-friendly ART in patients with PCOS. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) IVM research at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel has been supported by grants from: the Institute for the Promotion of Innovation by Science and Technology in Flanders (Agentschap voor Innovatie door Wetenschap en Technologie-IWT, project 110680); the Fund for Research Flanders (Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek-Vlaanderen-FWO, project G.0343.13), the Belgian Foundation Against Cancer (HOPE project, Dossier C69). The authors have no conflicts of interest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Sánchez
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels 1090, Belgium
| | - F Lolicato
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels 1090, Belgium
| | - S Romero
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels 1090, Belgium.,Centro de Estudios e Investigaciones en Biología y Medicina Reproductiva-BIOMER, Lima, Peru
| | - M De Vos
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels 1090, Belgium.,Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels 1090, Belgium
| | - H Van Ranst
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels 1090, Belgium
| | - G Verheyen
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels 1090, Belgium
| | - E Anckaert
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels 1090, Belgium
| | - J E J Smitz
- Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels 1090, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Conti M, Franciosi F. Acquisition of oocyte competence to develop as an embryo: integrated nuclear and cytoplasmic events. Hum Reprod Update 2018; 24:245-266. [PMID: 29432538 PMCID: PMC5907346 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmx040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 178] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Revised: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility affects ~7% of couples of reproductive age with little change in incidence in the last two decades. ART, as well as other interventions, have made major strides in correcting this condition. However, and in spite of advancements in the field, the age of the female partner remains a main factor for a successful outcome. A better understanding of the final stages of gamete maturation yielding an egg that can sustain embryo development and a pregnancy to term remains a major area for improvement in the field. This review will summarize the major cellular and molecular events unfolding at the oocyte-to-embryo transition. We will provide an update on the most important processes/pathways currently understood as the basis of developmental competence, including the molecular processes involved in mRNA storage, its recruitment to the translational machinery, and its degradation. We will discuss the hypothesis that the translational programme of maternal mRNAs plays a key role in establishing developmental competence. These regulations are essential to assemble the machinery that is used to establish a totipotent zygote. This hypothesis further supports the view that embryogenesis begins during oogenesis. A better understanding of the events required for developmental competence will guide the development of novel strategies to monitor and improve the success rate of IVF. Using this information, it will be possible to develop new biomarkers that may be used to better predict oocyte quality and in selection of the best egg for IVF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Conti
- Department of OBGYN-RS, University of California San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143-0556, USA
| | - Federica Franciosi
- Department of OBGYN-RS, University of California San Francisco, 513 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143-0556, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Richani D, Gilchrist RB. The epidermal growth factor network: role in oocyte growth, maturation and developmental competence. Hum Reprod Update 2018; 24:1-14. [PMID: 29029246 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmx029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The LH surge induces great physiological changes within the preovulatory follicle, which culminate in the ovulation of a mature oocyte that is capable of supporting embryo and foetal development. However, unlike mural granulosa cells, the oocyte and its surrounding cumulus cells are not directly responsive to LH, indicating that the LH signal is mediated by secondary factors produced by the granulosa cells. The mechanisms by which the oocyte senses the ovulatory LH signal and hence prepares for ovulation has been a subject of considerable controversy for the past four decades. Within the last 15 years several significant insights have been made into the molecular mechanisms orchestrating oocyte development, maturation and ovulation. These findings centre on the epidermal growth factor (EGF) pathway and the role it plays in the complex signalling network that finely regulates oocyte maturation and ovulation. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review outlines the role of the EGF network during oocyte development and regulation of the ovulatory cascade, and in particular focuses on the effect of the EGF network on oocyte developmental competence. Application of this new knowledge to advances in ART is examined. SEARCH METHODS The PubMed database was used to search for peer-reviewed original and review articles concerning the EGF network. Publications offering a comprehensive description of the role of the EGF network in follicle and oocyte development were used. OUTCOMES It is now clear that acute upregulation of the EGF network is an essential component of the ovulatory cascade as it transmits the LH signal from the periphery of the follicle to the cumulus-oocyte complex (COC). More recent findings have elucidated new roles for the EGF network in the regulation of oocyte development. EGF signalling downregulates the somatic signal 3'5'-cyclic guanine monophosphate that suppresses oocyte meiotic maturation and simultaneously provides meiotic inducing signals. The EGF network also controls translation of maternal transcripts in the quiescent oocyte, a process that is integral to oocyte competence. As a means of restricting the ovulatory signal to the Graffian follicle, most COCs in the ovary are unresponsive to EGF-ligands. Recent studies have revealed that development of a functional EGF signalling network in cumulus cells requires dual endocrine (FSH) and oocyte paracrine cues (growth differentiation factor 9 and bone morphogenetic protein 15), and this occurs progressively in COCs during the last stages of folliculogenesis. Hence, a new concept to emerge is that cumulus cell acquisition of EGF receptor responsiveness represents a developmental hallmark in folliculogenesis, analogous to FSH-induction of LH receptor signalling in mural granulosa cells. Likewise, this event represents a major milestone in the oocyte's developmental progression and acquisition of developmental competence. It is now clear that EGF signalling is perturbed in COCs matured in vitro. This has inspired novel concepts in IVM systems to ameliorate this perturbation, resulting in improved oocyte developmental competence. WIDER IMPLICATIONS An oocyte of high quality is imperative for fertility. Elucidating the fundamental molecular and cellular mechanims by which the EGF network regulates oocyte maturation and ovulation can be expected to open new opportunities in ART. This knowledge has already led to advances in oocyte IVM in animal models. Translation of such advances into a clinical setting should increase the efficacy of IVM, making it a viable treatment option for a wide range of patients, thereby simplifying fertility treatment and bringing substantial cost and health benefits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dulama Richani
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of New South Wales Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Robert B Gilchrist
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of New South Wales Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Current perspectives on in vitro maturation and its effects on oocyte genetic and epigenetic profiles. SCIENCE CHINA-LIFE SCIENCES 2018; 61:633-643. [PMID: 29569023 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-017-9280-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Accepted: 12/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In vitro maturation (IVM), the maturation in culture of immature oocytes, has been used in clinic for more than 20 years. Although IVM has the specific advantages of low cost and minor side effects over controlled ovarian stimulation, the prevalence of IVM is less than 1% of routine in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer techniques in many reproductive centers. In this review, we searched the MEDLINE database for all full texts and/or abstract articles published in English with content related to oocyte IVM mainly between 2000 and 2016. Many different aspects of the IVM method may influence oocyte potential, including priming, gonadotrophin, growth factors, and culture times. The culture conditions of IVM result in alterations in the oocyte or cumulus cell transcriptome that are not observed under in vivo culture conditions. Additionally, epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation or acetylation, are also different between in vitro and in vivo cultured oocytes. In sum, current IVM technique is still not popular and requires more systematic and intensive research to improve its effects and applications. This review will help point our problems, supply evidence or clues for future improving IVM technique, thus assist patients for fertility treatment or preservation as an additional option.
Collapse
|
24
|
Sugimura S, Yamanouchi T, Palmerini MG, Hashiyada Y, Imai K, Gilchrist RB. Effect of pre-in vitro maturation with cAMP modulators on the acquisition of oocyte developmental competence in cattle. J Reprod Dev 2018; 64:233-241. [PMID: 29503399 PMCID: PMC6021610 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2018-009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The administration of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) prior to oocyte retrieval improves oocyte developmental competence. During bovine embryo production in vitro,
however, oocytes are typically derived from FSH-unprimed animals. In the current study, we examined the effect of pre-in vitro maturation (IVM) with cAMP modulators, also
known as the second messengers of FSH, on the developmental competence of oocytes derived from small antral follicles (2–4 mm) of FSH-unprimed animals. Pre-IVM with
N6,2ʹ-O-dibutyryladenosine 3′,5′-cyclicmonophosphate (dbcAMP) and 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX) for 2 h improved the blastocyst formation in oocytes stimulated by FSH or amphiregulin
(AREG). Furthermore, pre-IVM enhanced the expression of the FSH- or AREG-stimulated extracellular matrix-related genes HAS2, TNFAIP6, and
PTGS2, and epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like peptide-related genes AREG and EREG. Additionally, pre-IVM with dbcAMP and IBMX enhanced
the expression of EGFR, and also increased and prolonged cumulus cell-oocyte gap junctional communication. The improved oocyte development observed using the pre-IVM
protocol was ablated by an EGF receptor phosphorylation inhibitor. These results indicate that pre-IVM with cAMP modulators could contribute to the acquisition of developmental competence by
bovine oocytes from small antral follicles through the modulation of EGF receptor signaling and oocyte-cumulus/cumulus-cumulus gap junctional communication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Sugimura
- Department of Biological Production, Institute of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | | | - Maria Grazia Palmerini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila 67100, Italy
| | | | - Kei Imai
- Department of Sustainable Agriculture, Rakuno Gakuen University, Hokkaido 069-8501, Japan
| | - Robert B Gilchrist
- Discipline of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, School of Women's & Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Prochazka R, Blaha M, Němcová L. Significance of epidermal growth factor receptor signaling for acquisition of meiotic and developmental competence in mammalian oocytes†. Biol Reprod 2017; 97:537-549. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
|
26
|
Brown HM, Dunning KR, Sutton-McDowall M, Gilchrist RB, Thompson JG, Russell DL. Failure to launch: aberrant cumulus gene expression during oocyte in vitro maturation. Reproduction 2017; 153:R109-R120. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Revised: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
In vitro maturation (IVM) offers significant benefits for human infertility treatment and animal breeding, but this potential is yet to be fully realised due to reduced oocyte developmental competence in comparison with in vivo matured oocytes. Cumulus cells occupy an essential position in determining oocyte developmental competence. Here we have examined the areas of deficient gene expression, as determined within microarrays primarily from cumulus cells of mouse COCs, but also other species, between in vivo matured and in vitro matured oocytes. By retrospectively analysing the literature, directed by focussing on downregulated genes, we provide an insight as to why the in vitro cumulus cells fail to support full oocyte potential and dissect molecular pathways that have important roles in oocyte competence. We conclude that the roles of epidermal growth factor signalling, the expanded extracellular matrix, cumulus cell metabolism and the immune system are critical deficiencies in cumulus cells of IVM COCs.
Collapse
|
27
|
Goodwin MR, Rispoli LA, Payton RR, Saxton AM, Edwards JL. Developmental consequences of supplementing with matrix metallopeptidase-9 during in vitro maturation of heat-stressed bovine oocytes. J Reprod Dev 2016; 62:553-560. [PMID: 27440552 PMCID: PMC5177972 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2015-177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2015] [Accepted: 07/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Because latent form of matrix metallopeptidase-9 (proMMP9) levels are positively related to blastocyst development, it was hypothesized that addition during maturation may improve development of heat-stressed oocytes. To test hypothesis, 0, 30 or 300 ng/ml human proMMP9 (hMMP9) was added at 18 h of in vitro maturation (hIVM) to cumulus-oocyte complexes matured at 38.5 or 41.0ºC (first 12 h only). Heat stress decreased 24 hIVM proMMP9 levels only in 0 and 30 ng/ml groups and increased progesterone in 0 and 300 ng/ml hMMP9 groups. Heat stress decreased cleavage and blastocyst development. Independent of maturation temperature, hMMP9 at 18 hIVM decreased blastocyst development. In a second study, cumulus-oocyte complexes were matured for 24 h at 38.5 or 41.0ºC (HS first 12 h only) with 0 or 300 ng/ml hMMP9 added at 12 hIVM. Without hMMP9, heat stress decreased 24 hIVM proMMP9 levels and increased progesterone production. Addition of 300 ng/ml of hMMP9 produced equivalent levels of proMMP9 at 24 hIVM (271 vs. 279 ± 77 for 38.5ºC and 41.0ºC treated oocytes, respectively). Heat stress did not affect ability of oocytes to cleave but reduced blastocyst development. Independent of temperature, hMMP9 decreased cleavage and blastocyst development. In summary, hMMP9 supplementation during IVM did not improve development of heat-stressed oocytes even when it was added for the entire maturation period. At doses tested, hMMP9 appeared detrimental to development when supplemented during the last 12 or 6 h of oocyte maturation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Megan R Goodwin
- University of Tennessee, Institute of Agriculture, UT AgResearch, Department of Animal Science, Knoxville, TN 37996-4574, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Gilchrist RB, Luciano AM, Richani D, Zeng HT, Wang X, Vos MD, Sugimura S, Smitz J, Richard FJ, Thompson JG. Oocyte maturation and quality: role of cyclic nucleotides. Reproduction 2016; 152:R143-57. [PMID: 27422885 DOI: 10.1530/rep-15-0606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The cyclic nucleotides, cAMP and cGMP, are the key molecules controlling mammalian oocyte meiosis. Their roles in oocyte biology have been at the forefront of oocyte research for decades, and many of the long-standing controversies in relation to the regulation of oocyte meiotic maturation are now resolved. It is now clear that the follicle prevents meiotic resumption through the actions of natriuretic peptides and cGMP - inhibiting the hydrolysis of intra-oocyte cAMP - and that the pre-ovulatory gonadotrophin surge reverses these processes. The gonadotrophin surge also leads to a transient spike in cAMP in the somatic compartment of the follicle. Research over the past two decades has conclusively demonstrated that this surge in cAMP is important for the subsequent developmental capacity of the oocyte. This is important, as oocyte in vitro maturation (IVM) systems practised clinically do not recapitulate this cAMP surge in vitro, possibly accounting for the lower efficiency of IVM compared with clinical IVF. This review particularly focuses on this latter aspect - the role of cAMP/cGMP in the regulation of oocyte quality. We conclude that clinical practice of IVM should reflect this new understanding of the role of cyclic nucleotides, thereby creating a new generation of ART and fertility treatment options.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R B Gilchrist
- Discipline of Obstetrics and GynaecologySchool of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - A M Luciano
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology LaboratoryDepartment of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Milano, Italy
| | - D Richani
- Discipline of Obstetrics and GynaecologySchool of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - H T Zeng
- Center for Reproductive MedicineSixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - X Wang
- Discipline of Obstetrics and GynaecologySchool of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologySt George Public Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - M De Vos
- Follicle Biology LaboratoryUniversity Hospital UZBrussel, Medical School, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - S Sugimura
- Institute of AgricultureDepartment of Biological Production, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - J Smitz
- Follicle Biology LaboratoryUniversity Hospital UZBrussel, Medical School, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - F J Richard
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la ReproductionDépartement des Sciences Animales, Faculté des sciences de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - J G Thompson
- School of MedicineRobinson Research Institute and ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Yang L, Wei Q, Li W, Xi Q, Zhao X, Ma B. NPR2 is involved in FSH-mediated mouse oocyte meiotic resumption. J Ovarian Res 2016; 9:6. [PMID: 26880031 PMCID: PMC4754804 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-016-0218-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2015] [Accepted: 02/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Previous studies have reported that follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is often added to culture media to induce oocyte meiotic resumption and maturation and to improve subsequent embryonic development during in vitro maturation (IVM). However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Methods Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were collected from ovaries 46–48 h after the female mice were intraperitoneally injected with 8 IU equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) and then the COCs were cultured in different medium. qRT-PCR analysis was used to assess mRNA expression of EGF-like factors and natriuretic peptide receptor 2 (NPR2). Western Blot analysis was used to assess phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase 3/1 (MAPK3/1). The oocytes were morphologically assessed for meiotic resumption. Results FSH stimulated the expression of EGF-like factors, the activation of MAPK3/1, a decrease in NPR2 mRNA and oocyte meiotic resumption. Moreover, the FSH-induced decrease in NPR2 and oocyte meiotic resumption occurred via the MAPK3/1 singling pathway, which was activated by the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway. Conclusions NPR2 is involved in FSH-mediated oocyte meiotic resumption, and this process is associated with the EGFR and MAPK3/1 signaling pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Yang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China. .,College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qiang Wei
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China. .,College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China.
| | - Wei Li
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China. .,College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qihui Xi
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China. .,College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaoe Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China. .,College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China.
| | - Baohua Ma
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China. .,College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Franciosi F, Manandhar S, Conti M. FSH Regulates mRNA Translation in Mouse Oocytes and Promotes Developmental Competence. Endocrinology 2016; 157:872-82. [PMID: 26653334 PMCID: PMC4733122 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-1727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
A major challenge in assisted reproductive technology is to develop conditions for in vitro oocyte maturation yielding high-quality eggs. Efforts are underway to assess whether known hormonal and local factors play a role in oocyte developmental competence and to identify the molecular mechanism involved. Here we have tested the hypothesis that FSH improves oocyte developmental competence by regulating the translational program in the oocyte. Accumulation of oocyte proteins (targeting protein for the Xenopus kinesin xklp2 and IL-7) associated with improved oocyte quality is increased when cumulus-oocyte complexes are incubated with FSH. This increase is due to enhanced translation of the corresponding mRNAs, as indicated by microinjection of constructs in which the 3' untranslated region of the Tpx2 or Il7 transcripts is fused to the luciferase reporter. A transient activation of the phosphatidyl-inositol 3-phosphate/AKT cascade in the oocyte preceded the increase in translation. When the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor is down-regulated in follicular cells, the FSH-induced rate of maternal mRNA translation and AKT activation were lost, demonstrating that the effects of FSH are indirect and require EGF receptor signaling in the somatic compartment. Using Pten(fl/fl):Zp3cre oocytes in which the AKT is constitutively activated, translation of reporters was increased and was no longer sensitive to FSH stimulation. More importantly, the oocytes lacking the phosphate and tensin homolog gene showed increased developmental competence, even when cultured in the absence of FSH or growth factors. Thus, we demonstrate that FSH intersects with the follicular EGF network to activate the phosphatidyl-inositol 3-phosphate/AKT cascade in the oocyte to control translation and developmental competence. These findings provide a molecular rationale for the use of FSH to improve egg quality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federica Franciosi
- Center for Reproductive Sciences (F.F., S.M., M.C.), Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research (F.F., M.C.), and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences (F.F., M.C.), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143
| | - Shila Manandhar
- Center for Reproductive Sciences (F.F., S.M., M.C.), Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research (F.F., M.C.), and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences (F.F., M.C.), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143
| | - Marco Conti
- Center for Reproductive Sciences (F.F., S.M., M.C.), Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research (F.F., M.C.), and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences (F.F., M.C.), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Coticchio G, Dal Canto M, Fadini R, Mignini Renzini M, Guglielmo MC, Miglietta S, Palmerini MG, Macchiarelli G, Nottola SA. Ultrastructure of human oocytes after in vitro maturation. Mol Hum Reprod 2015; 22:110-8. [PMID: 26646501 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gav071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2015] [Accepted: 12/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY HYPOTHESIS How does the ultrastructure of human oocytes matured in vitro compare with oocytes collected from women after full hormonal stimulation? STUDY FINDING The ultrastructure of human oocytes matured in vitro is largely, but not entirely, similar to those matured in vivo. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Embryos derived from in vitro-matured oocytes often have limited developmental potential, possibly as an effect of inappropriate in vitro maturation (IVM) conditions. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is a valuable research tool to compare in vivo and in vitro matured oocytes. However, previous studies on the ultrastructure of human IVM oocytes were done with inadequate material or inappropriate IVM conditions, and have limited significance. STUDY DESIGN, SAMPLES/MATERIALS, METHODS Immature cumulus cell-enclosed oocytes, retrieved from mid-sized antral follicles of women requiring IVM treatment, were matured in vitro for 30 h. No leftover germinal vesicle-stage oocytes collected from fully stimulated cycles were used. Control in vivo matured oocytes were obtained from age-matched women undergoing full ovarian stimulation. In vitro and in vivo matured oocytes were analysed by TEM and compared according to previously established morphometric criteria of oocyte quality. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE All oocytes had normal ooplasm showing uniform distribution of organelles. Mitochondrial morphology appeared similar between the maturation conditions. Cortical granules were found typically stratified in a single, mostly continuous row just beneath the ooplasm in all oocytes. Microvilli were well preserved after IVM. Vacuoles were only occasionally found in all oocytes and, if present, they were frequently associated with lysosomes. Mitochondria-smooth endoplasmic reticulum (M-SER) aggregates and mitochondria-vesicles (MV) complexes were commonly found in in vivo matured oocytes. However, large MV complexes partially replaced M-SER aggregates in IVM oocytes. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION As a note of caution it should be noticed that, being laborious and technically demanding, TEM cannot be applied to a large number of samples in a single investigation. Therefore, our data require further independent confirmation. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our data suggests the notion that TEM remains a valuable research tool that can also offer quantitative data if associated with morphometric criteria of evaluation. Therefore, it can be adopted to test pre-clinically the performance of novel in vitro systems that are demanded to make oocytes IVM more successful in the human. LARGE SCALE DATA Not applicable. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTERESTS This study was independently funded by Biogenesi Reproductive Medicine Centre, Monza, Italy. All authors declare that their participation in the study did not involve factual or potential conflicts of interests.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rubens Fadini
- Biogenesi Reproductive Medicine Centre, Monza, Italy
| | | | | | - Selenia Miglietta
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, University 'La Sapienza', Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Palmerini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of ĹAquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Guido Macchiarelli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of ĹAquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Stefania Annarita Nottola
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, University 'La Sapienza', Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Blaha M, Nemcova L, Kepkova KV, Vodicka P, Prochazka R. Gene expression analysis of pig cumulus-oocyte complexes stimulated in vitro with follicle stimulating hormone or epidermal growth factor-like peptides. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2015; 13:113. [PMID: 26445099 PMCID: PMC4596359 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-015-0112-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2015] [Accepted: 10/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The gonadotropin-induced resumption of oocyte meiosis in preovulatory follicles is preceded by expression of epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like peptides, amphiregulin (AREG) and epiregulin (EREG), in mural granulosa and cumulus cells. Both the gonadotropins and the EGF-like peptides possess the capacity to stimulate resumption of oocyte meiosis in vitro via activation of a broad signaling network in cumulus cells. To better understand the rapid genomic actions of gonadotropins (FSH) and EGF-like peptides, we analyzed transcriptomes of cumulus cells at 3 h after their stimulation. METHODS We hybridized aRNA from cumulus cells to a pig oligonucleotide microarray and compared the transcriptomes of FSH- and AREG/EREG-stimulated cumulus cells with untreated control cells and vice versa. The identified over- and underexpressed genes were subjected to functional genomic analysis according to their molecular and cellular functions. The expression pattern of 50 selected genes with a known or potential function in ovarian development was verified by real-time qRT-PCR. RESULTS Both FSH and AREG/EREG increased the expression of genes associated with regulation of cell proliferation, cell migration, blood coagulation and extracellular matrix remodeling. FSH alone induced the expression of genes involved in inflammatory response and in the response to reactive oxygen species. Moreover, FSH stimulated the expression of genes closely related to some ovulatory events either exclusively or significantly more than AREG/EREG (AREG, ADAMTS1, HAS2, TNFAIP6, PLAUR, PLAT, and HSD17B7). In contrast to AREG/EREG, FSH also increased the expression of genes coding for key transcription factors (CEBPB, FOS, ID1/3, and NR5A2), which may contribute to the differing expression profiles of FSH- and AREG/EREG-treated cumulus cells. CONCLUSIONS The impact of FSH on cumulus cell gene transcription was higher than the impact of EGF-like factors in terms of the number of cell functions affected as well as the number of over- and underexpressed genes. Both FSH and EGF-like factors overexpressed genes involved in the post-ovulatory switch in steroidogenesis and tissue remodelling. However, FSH was remarkably more efficient in the up-regulation of several specific genes essential for ovulation of matured oocytes and also genes that been reported to play an important role in maturation of cumulus-enclosed oocytes in vitro.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Milan Blaha
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Rumburska 89, 277 21, Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Lucie Nemcova
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Rumburska 89, 277 21, Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Katerina Vodickova Kepkova
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Rumburska 89, 277 21, Libechov, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Vodicka
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Radek Prochazka
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Rumburska 89, 277 21, Libechov, Czech Republic.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Coticchio G, Dal Canto M, Guglielmo MC, Albertini DF, Mignini Renzini M, Merola M, Lain M, Sottocornola M, De Ponti E, Fadini R. Double-strand DNA breaks and repair response in human immature oocytes and their relevance to meiotic resumption. J Assist Reprod Genet 2015; 32:1509-16. [PMID: 26238391 PMCID: PMC4615920 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-015-0547-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2015] [Accepted: 07/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Only 50-60 % of immature human oocytes attain the mature stage in vitro. Such a deficiency may be a reflection of inadequate conditions of in vitro maturation (IVM) or a manifestation of intrinsic oocyte defects. In the present study, we explored the possibility that the DNA of immature oocytes may be damaged and that such a condition, or inability to trigger a repair action, is associated to germinal vesicle (GV) arrest. METHODS Immature oocytes (GV-stage oocytes) were obtained from women undergoing stimulated (Stim-C) or IVM (IVM-C) cycles. GV oocytes obtained from stimulated cycles were fixed for successive analysis either after recovery (T0) or following 30 h (T30) of culture if still arrested at the GV stage. Oocytes retrieved in IVM cycles were used only if they were found arrested at the GV stage after 30 h (T30) of culture. All oocytes were fixed and stained to detect chromatin and actin. They were also assessed for positivity to γH2AX and Rad51, markers revealing the presence of double-strand DNA breaks and the activation of a DNA repair response, respectively. Labelled oocytes were analysed using a Leica TCS SP2 laser scanning confocal microscope. RESULTS In Stim-C oocytes, γH2AX positivity was 47.5 and 81.5 % in the T0 and T30 groups, respectively (P = 0.003), while γH2AX-positive oocytes were 58.3 % in the IVM-C T30 group (Stim-C T0 vs. IVM-C T30, P = 0.178; Stim-C T30 vs. IVM-C T30, P = 0.035). Positivity for nuclear staining to Rad51 occurred in 42.1 and 74.1 % of Stim-C in the T0 and T30 subgroups, respectively (T = 0.006), while 66.7 % of IVM-C T30 oocytes resulted positive for a DNA repair response (Stim-C T0 vs. IVM-C T30, P = 0.010; Stim-C T30 vs. IVM-C T30, P = 0.345). CONCLUSIONS The present data document the existence of double-strand DNA breaks (DSBs) in human immature oocytes. Also, they are consistent with the hypothesis that insults to DNA integrity may be an important factor affecting meiotic resumption.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Coticchio
- Biogenesi Reproductive Medicine Centre, Istituti Clinici Zucchi, Via Zucchi, 24, Monza, Italy.
| | - Mariabeatrice Dal Canto
- Biogenesi Reproductive Medicine Centre, Istituti Clinici Zucchi, Via Zucchi, 24, Monza, Italy
| | | | - David F Albertini
- Center for Human Reproduction, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas, Kansas City, USA
| | - Mario Mignini Renzini
- Biogenesi Reproductive Medicine Centre, Istituti Clinici Zucchi, Via Zucchi, 24, Monza, Italy
| | - Maria Merola
- Biogenesi Reproductive Medicine Centre, Istituti Clinici Zucchi, Via Zucchi, 24, Monza, Italy
| | - Monia Lain
- Biogenesi Reproductive Medicine Centre, Istituti Clinici Zucchi, Via Zucchi, 24, Monza, Italy
| | - Manuela Sottocornola
- Biogenesi Reproductive Medicine Centre, Istituti Clinici Zucchi, Via Zucchi, 24, Monza, Italy
| | - Elena De Ponti
- Department of Medical Physics, San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Rubens Fadini
- Biogenesi Reproductive Medicine Centre, Istituti Clinici Zucchi, Via Zucchi, 24, Monza, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Mottershead DG, Sugimura S, Al-Musawi SL, Li JJ, Richani D, White MA, Martin GA, Trotta AP, Ritter LJ, Shi J, Mueller TD, Harrison CA, Gilchrist RB. Cumulin, an Oocyte-secreted Heterodimer of the Transforming Growth Factor-β Family, Is a Potent Activator of Granulosa Cells and Improves Oocyte Quality. J Biol Chem 2015; 290:24007-20. [PMID: 26254468 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.671487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) are oocyte-specific growth factors with central roles in mammalian reproduction, regulating species-specific fecundity, ovarian follicular somatic cell differentiation, and oocyte quality. In the human, GDF9 is produced in a latent form, the mechanism of activation being an open question. Here, we produced a range of recombinant GDF9 and BMP15 variants, examined their in silico and physical interactions and their effects on ovarian granulosa cells (GC) and oocytes. We found that the potent synergistic actions of GDF9 and BMP15 on GC can be attributed to the formation of a heterodimer, which we have termed cumulin. Structural modeling of cumulin revealed a dimerization interface identical to homodimeric GDF9 and BMP15, indicating likely formation of a stable complex. This was confirmed by generation of recombinant heterodimeric complexes of pro/mature domains (pro-cumulin) and covalent mature domains (cumulin). Both pro-cumulin and cumulin exhibited highly potent bioactivity on GC, activating both SMAD2/3 and SMAD1/5/8 signaling pathways and promoting proliferation and expression of a set of genes associated with oocyte-regulated GC differentiation. Cumulin was more potent than pro-cumulin, pro-GDF9, pro-BMP15, or the two combined on GC. However, on cumulus-oocyte complexes, pro-cumulin was more effective than all other growth factors at notably improving oocyte quality as assessed by subsequent day 7 embryo development. Our results support a model of activation for human GDF9 dependent on cumulin formation through heterodimerization with BMP15. Oocyte-secreted cumulin is likely to be a central regulator of fertility in mono-ovular mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David G Mottershead
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and Mottasis Oy Ltd., 00430 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Satoshi Sugimura
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and the Institute of Agriculture, Department of Biological Production, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-0057, Japan
| | - Sara L Al-Musawi
- the Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Jing-Jie Li
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and the Center of Reproductive Medicine, the Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510655 Guangzhou, China
| | - Dulama Richani
- the Discipline of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, School of Women's & Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia, and
| | - Melissa A White
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and
| | - Georgia A Martin
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and
| | - Andrew P Trotta
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and
| | - Lesley J Ritter
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Nanoscale BioPhotonics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Junyan Shi
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and
| | - Thomas D Mueller
- the Department of Plant Physiology and Biophysics, Julius-von-Sachs Institute of the University Wuerzburg, D-97082 Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Craig A Harrison
- the Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Robert B Gilchrist
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and the Discipline of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, School of Women's & Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia, and
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Ritter LJ, Sugimura S, Gilchrist RB. Oocyte induction of EGF responsiveness in somatic cells is associated with the acquisition of porcine oocyte developmental competence. Endocrinology 2015; 156:2299-312. [PMID: 25849729 DOI: 10.1210/en.2014-1884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Oocytes progressively acquire the competence to support embryo development as oogenesis proceeds with ovarian folliculogenesis. The objectives of this study were to investigate oocyte-secreted factor (OSF) participation in the development of somatic cell epidermal growth factor (EGF) responsiveness associated with oocyte developmental competence. A well-established porcine model was employed using oocytes from small (<4 mm) vs medium sized (>4 mm) antral follicles, representing low vs moderate developmental competence, respectively. Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were treated in vitro with inducers of oocyte maturation, and cumulus cell functions and oocyte developmental competence were assessed. COCs from small follicles responded to FSH but, unlike COCs from larger follicles, were incapable of responding to EGF family growth factors known to mediate oocyte maturation in vivo, exhibiting perturbed cumulus expansion and expression of associated transcripts (HAS2 and TNFAIP6). Low and moderate competence COCs expressed equivalent levels of EGF receptor (EGFR) mRNA; however, the former had less total EGFR protein leading to failed activation of phospho-EGFR and phospho-ERK1/2, despite equivalent total ERK1/2 protein levels. Native OSFs from moderate, but not from low, competence oocytes established EGF responsiveness in low competence COCs. Four candidate recombinant OSFs failed to mimic the actions of native OSFs in regulating cumulus expansion. Treatment with OSFs and EGF enhanced oocyte competence but only of the low competence COCs. These data suggest that developmental acquisition by the oocyte of capacity to regulate EGF responsiveness in the oocyte's somatic cells is a major milestone in the oocyte's developmental program and contributes to coordinated oocyte and somatic cell development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lesley J Ritter
- School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and Robinson Research Institute (L.J.R., S.S., R.B.G.) Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Nanoscale BioPhotonics (L.J.R.), The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; Institute of Agriculture (S.S.), Department of Biological Production, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan; and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (R.B.G.), School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Shao L, Chian RC, Xu Y, Yan Z, Zhang Y, Gao C, Gao L, Liu J, Cui Y. Genomic expression profiles in cumulus cells derived from germinal vesicle and MII mouse oocytes. Reprod Fertil Dev 2015; 28:RD15077. [PMID: 25989843 DOI: 10.1071/rd15077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2015] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Cumulus cells (CCs) are distinct from other granulosa cells and the mutual communication between CCs and oocytes is essential for the establishment of oocyte competence. In the present study we assessed genomic expression profiles in mouse CCs before and after oocyte maturation in vitro. Microarray analysis revealed significant changes in gene expression in CCs between the germinal vesicle (GV) and metaphase II (MII) stages, with 2615 upregulated and 2808 downregulated genes. Genes related to epidermal growth factor, extracellular matrix (Ptgs2, Ereg, Tnfaip6 and Efemp1), mitochondrial metabolism (Fdx1 and Aifm2), gap junctions and the cell cycle (Gja1, Gja4, Ccnd2, Ccna2 and Ccnb2) were highlighted as being differentially expressed between the two development stages. Real-time polymerase chain reaction confirmed the validity and reproducibility of the results for the selected differentially expressed genes. Similar expression patterns were identified by western blot analysis for some functional proteins, including EFEMP1, FDX1, GJA1 and CCND2, followed by immunofluorescence localisation. These genes may be potential biomarkers for oocyte developmental competence following fertilisation and will be investigated further in future studies.
Collapse
|
37
|
Sugimura S, Ritter LJ, Rose RD, Thompson JG, Smitz J, Mottershead DG, Gilchrist RB. Promotion of EGF receptor signaling improves the quality of low developmental competence oocytes. Dev Biol 2015; 403:139-49. [PMID: 25981108 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2015.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2015] [Revised: 05/05/2015] [Accepted: 05/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Oocytes acquire developmental competence with progressive folliculogenesis. Cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) from small antral follicles have inherent low competence and are poorly responsive to amphiregulin (AREG) which normally mediates oocyte maturation and ovulation. Using low competence porcine COCs, in an in vitro AREG-induced oocyte maturation system, the combined exposure to N(6),2'-O-dibutyryladenosine 3':5' cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (B15) and growth differentiation factor 9 (G9) was necessary to enhance the rate of oocyte meiotic maturation and blastocyst formation. Furthermore, the combination of cAMP+B15+G9 enabled AREG-stimulated cumulus expansion and increased expression of the matrix-related genes HAS2, TNFIPA6 and PTGS2. Additionally, the combination enhanced p-ERK1/2 which is downstream of the EGF receptor. The enhanced nuclear maturation and blastocyst formation rates with the combinational treatment were ablated by an EGF receptor phosphorylation inhibitor. These results indicate that cAMP and oocyte-secreted factors cooperate to promote EGF receptor functionality in developing COCs, representing a key component of the acquisition of oocyte developmental competence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Sugimura
- Robinson Research Institute, and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, The University of Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia; Institute of Agriculture, Department of Biological Production, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
| | - Lesley J Ritter
- Robinson Research Institute, and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, The University of Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Ryan D Rose
- Robinson Research Institute, and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, The University of Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Jeremy G Thompson
- Robinson Research Institute, and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, The University of Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Johan Smitz
- Follicle Biology Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - David G Mottershead
- Robinson Research Institute, and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, The University of Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia; Mottasis Oy Ltd., Helsinki, Finland
| | - Robert B Gilchrist
- Robinson Research Institute, and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, The University of Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia; School of Women's and Children's Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of New South Wales, Barker Street, Randwick, Sydney, New South Wales 2013, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Dunning KR, Watson LN, Zhang VJ, Brown HM, Kaczmarek AK, Robker RL, Russell DL. Activation of Mouse Cumulus-Oocyte Complex Maturation In Vitro Through EGF-Like Activity of Versican1. Biol Reprod 2015; 92:116. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.127274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2014] [Accepted: 03/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
|
39
|
Ríos G, Buschiazzo J, Mucci N, Kaiser G, Cesari A, Alberio R. Combined epidermal growth factor and hyaluronic acid supplementation of in vitro maturation medium and its impact on bovine oocyte proteome and competence. Theriogenology 2015; 83:874-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2014] [Revised: 10/25/2014] [Accepted: 11/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
|
40
|
Downs SM. Nutrient pathways regulating the nuclear maturation of mammalian oocytes. Reprod Fertil Dev 2015; 27:572-82. [DOI: 10.1071/rd14343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2014] [Accepted: 01/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte maturation is defined as that phase of development whereby a fully grown oocyte reinitiates meiotic maturation, completes one meiotic division with extrusion of a polar body, then arrests at MII until fertilisation. Completion of maturation depends on many different factors, not the least of which is the proper provision of energy substrates to fuel the process. Interaction of the oocyte and somatic compartment of the follicle is critical and involves numerous signals exchanged between the two cell types in both directions. One of the prominent functions of the cumulus cells is the channelling of metabolites and nutrients to the oocyte to help stimulate germinal vesicle breakdown and direct development to MII. This entails the careful integration and coordination of numerous metabolic pathways, as well as oocyte paracrine signals that direct certain aspects of cumulus cell metabolism. These forces collaborate to produce a mature oocyte that, along with accompanying physiological changes called cytoplasmic maturation, which impart subsequent developmental competence to the oocyte, can be fertilised and develop to term. This review focuses on nuclear maturation and the metabolic interplay that regulates it, with special emphasis on data generated in the mouse.
Collapse
|
41
|
Sudiman J, Sutton-McDowall ML, Ritter LJ, White MA, Mottershead DG, Thompson JG, Gilchrist RB. Bone morphogenetic protein 15 in the pro-mature complex form enhances bovine oocyte developmental competence. PLoS One 2014; 9:e103563. [PMID: 25058588 PMCID: PMC4110049 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0103563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2013] [Accepted: 07/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Developmental competence of in vitro matured (IVM) oocytes needs to be improved and this can potentially be achieved by adding recombinant bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) or growth differentiation factor (GDF9) to IVM. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a purified pro-mature complex form of recombinant human BMP15 versus the commercially available bioactive forms of BMP15 and GDF9 (both isolated mature regions) during IVM on bovine embryo development and metabolic activity. Bovine cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) were matured in vitro in control medium or treated with 100 ng/ml pro-mature BMP15, mature BMP15 or mature GDF9 +/− FSH. Metabolic measures of glucose uptake and lactate production from COCs and autofluorescence of NAD(P)H, FAD and GSH were measured in oocytes after IVM. Following in vitro fertilisation and embryo culture, day 8 blastocysts were stained for cell numbers. COCs matured in medium +/− FSH containing pro-mature BMP15 displayed significantly improved blastocyst development (57.7±3.9%, 43.5±4.2%) compared to controls (43.3±2.4%, 28.9±3.7%) and to mature GDF9+FSH (36.1±3.0%). The mature form of BMP15 produced intermediate levels of blastocyst development; not significantly different to control or pro-mature BMP15 levels. Pro-mature BMP15 increased intra-oocyte NAD(P)H, and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels were increased by both forms of BMP15 in the absence of FSH. Exogenous BMP15 in its pro-mature form during IVM provides a functional source of oocyte-secreted factors to improve bovine blastocyst development. This form of BMP15 may prove useful for improving cattle and human artificial reproductive technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaqueline Sudiman
- Robinson Research Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Melanie L. Sutton-McDowall
- Robinson Research Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Lesley J. Ritter
- Robinson Research Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Melissa A. White
- Robinson Research Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - David G. Mottershead
- Robinson Research Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jeremy G. Thompson
- Robinson Research Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Robert B. Gilchrist
- Robinson Research Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Discipline of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, School of Women's & Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Richani D, Sutton-McDowall ML, Frank LA, Gilchrist RB, Thompson JG. Effect of epidermal growth factor-like peptides on the metabolism of in vitro- matured mouse oocytes and cumulus cells. Biol Reprod 2014; 90:49. [PMID: 24451986 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.115311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte in vitro maturation (IVM) is an assisted reproductive technology that involves the maturation of cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) that are then capable of normal development. We have shown that epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like peptide signaling is perturbed in mouse COCs undergoing IVM when matured with follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and/or EGF, but supplementation of IVM with EGF-like peptides amphiregulin or epiregulin improves oocyte developmental competence. Here we aimed to determine whether EGF-like peptides regulate COC metabolism. Immature 129/Sv mouse COCs underwent IVM with FSH, EGF, amphiregulin, epiregulin, betacellulin, or no treatment (control). Epiregulin significantly increased intraoocyte flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) and REDOX (reduction and oxidation) ratio compared to FSH and control. Amphiregulin and epiregulin significantly increased the proportion of J aggregates (from JC-1) in oocyte mitochondria compared to control, FSH, or EGF, and this coupled with FAD and REDOX measures indicates greater mitochondrial activity. There were no differences in glucose consumption, lactate production, or glycolysis between COCs matured with FSH, EGF, and EGF-like peptides. COCs matured with EGF or EGF-like peptides exhibited significantly higher mRNA expression of the hexosamine biosynthesis pathway (HBP) rate-limiting enzyme gene Gfpt2, Has2 expression, and global beta-O-linked glycosylation of proteins, compared to control or FSH, suggesting greater HBP activity. Our findings suggest that 1) EGF-like peptides, particularly epiregulin, induce more oocyte mitochondrial activity than EGF or FSH and 2) EGF-like peptides and EGF induce greater HBP activity, enabling more hyaluronic acid synthesis and protein beta-O-linked glycosylation. These metabolic alterations may be a mechanism by which EGF-like peptides increase oocyte developmental competence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dulama Richani
- Research Centre for Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Robinson Institute, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Richani D, Wang X, Zeng HT, Smitz J, Thompson JG, Gilchrist RB. Pre-maturation with cAMP modulators in conjunction with EGF-like peptides during in vitro maturation enhances mouse oocyte developmental competence. Mol Reprod Dev 2014; 81:422-35. [PMID: 24488930 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2013] [Accepted: 01/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have independently shown that cyclic adenosine 3'5'-monophosphate (cAMP) modulation prior to in vitro maturation (IVM) and epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like peptide supplementation during IVM improve subsequent oocyte developmental outcomes. This study investigated the effects of an IVM system that incorporates these two concepts. Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were collected from pre-pubertal mice either 46 hr post-equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) (IVM) or post-eCG + post-human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) stimulation (in vivo maturation; IVV). IVM COCs were treated with the cAMP modulators forskolin and IBMX for 1, 2, or 4 hr (pre-IVM phase) prior to IVM. COCs then underwent IVM with the EGF-like peptides amphiregulin or epiregulin, or with the common IVM stimulants follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) or EGF. A pre-IVM phase increased the size of the subsequent blastocysts' inner-cell-mass compared to standard IVM, regardless of IVM treatment (P < 0.05). Unlike FSH or EGF, amphiregulin or epiregulin significantly increased blastocyst quality (trophectoderm and total cell numbers) and/or yield (P < 0.01) compared to standard IVM, and were the only treatments that produced blastocysts comparable to IVV-derived blastocysts. Forskolin acutely up-regulated EGF-like peptide mRNA expression after a 2-hr pre-IVM phase (P < 0.001), although EGF receptor and ERK1/2 activities were not significantly different than control. IVV-like levels of EGF-like peptide mRNA expression during IVM were maintained only by supplementing with EGF-like peptides and EGF, since expression levels induced by FSH were significantly lower in vitro than during IVV. However, EGF receptor and ERK1/2 phosphorylation levels were not significantly different across treatment groups. In conclusion, a pre-IVM phase in conjunction with IVM in the presence of EGF-like peptides endows high oocyte developmental competence, as evidenced by increased embryo yield and/or quality relative to FSH and EGF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Richani
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Robinson Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Sugimura S, Ritter LJ, Sutton-McDowall ML, Mottershead DG, Thompson JG, Gilchrist RB. Amphiregulin co-operates with bone morphogenetic protein 15 to increase bovine oocyte developmental competence: effects on gap junction-mediated metabolite supply. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 20:499-513. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gau013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
45
|
Field SL, Dasgupta T, Cummings M, Orsi NM. Cytokines in ovarian folliculogenesis, oocyte maturation and luteinisation. Mol Reprod Dev 2013; 81:284-314. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2013] [Accepted: 11/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah L Field
- Women's Health Research Group; Leeds Institute of Cancer; Anatomy and Pathology; Wellcome Trust Brenner Building; St James's University Hospital; Leeds UK
| | - Tathagata Dasgupta
- Department of Systems Biology; Harvard Medical School; 200 Longwood Avenue Boston Massachusetts
| | - Michele Cummings
- Women's Health Research Group; Leeds Institute of Cancer; Anatomy and Pathology; Wellcome Trust Brenner Building; St James's University Hospital; Leeds UK
| | - Nicolas M. Orsi
- Women's Health Research Group; Leeds Institute of Cancer; Anatomy and Pathology; Wellcome Trust Brenner Building; St James's University Hospital; Leeds UK
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Chen J, Torcia S, Xie F, Lin CJ, Cakmak H, Franciosi F, Horner K, Onodera C, Song JS, Cedars MI, Ramalho-Santos M, Conti M. Somatic cells regulate maternal mRNA translation and developmental competence of mouse oocytes. Nat Cell Biol 2013; 15:1415-23. [PMID: 24270888 PMCID: PMC4066669 DOI: 10.1038/ncb2873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2013] [Accepted: 10/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Germ cells divide and differentiate in a unique local microenvironment under the control of somatic cells. Signals released in this niche instruct oocyte reentry into the meiotic cell cycle. Once initiated, the progression through meiosis and the associated programme of maternal messenger RNA translation are thought to be cell autonomous. Here we show that translation of a subset of maternal mRNAs critical for embryo development is under the control of somatic cell inputs. Translation of specific maternal transcripts increases in oocytes cultured in association with somatic cells and is sensitive to EGF-like growth factors that act only on the somatic compartment. In mice deficient in amphiregulin, decreased fecundity and oocyte developmental competence is associated with defective translation of a subset of maternal mRNAs. These somatic cell signals that affect translation require activation of the PI(3)K-AKT-mTOR pathway. Thus, mRNA translation depends on somatic cell cues that are essential to reprogramme the oocyte for embryo development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Chen
- 1] Center for Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143, USA [2] Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143, USA [3] Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California 94143, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|