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Reshi QUA, Godakumara K, Ord J, Dissanayake K, Hasan MM, Andronowska A, Heath P, Fazeli A. Spermatozoa, acts as an external cue and alters the cargo and production of the extracellular vesicles derived from oviductal epithelial cells in vitro. J Cell Commun Signal 2023; 17:737-755. [PMID: 36469292 PMCID: PMC10409707 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-022-00715-w] [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: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The oviduct provides optimum physiological and biochemical milieu essential for successful fertilization, early embryo development and facilitates functional maturation of spermatozoa. A study has revealed that spermatozoa alters the gene expression in bovine oviductal epithelial cells (BOECs) remotely via bio-active particles, thus acting as a cue to the oviduct prior to their arrival. However, very little attention has been paid to the question of whether spermatozoa could alter the cargo of extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from BOECs. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the alterations in small non-coding RNAs in EVs cargo derived from BOECs when incubated with spermatozoa in contact and non-contact co-culture models. After 4 h of incubation the EVs were isolated from the conditioned media, followed by small non-coding sequencing of the BOEC derived EVs. Our results revealed that EVs from both co-culture models contained distinct cargo in form of miRNA, fragmented mRNA versus control. The pathway enrichment analysis revealed that EV miRNA from direct co-culture were involved in the biological processes associated with phagocytosis, macroautophagy, placenta development, cellular responses to TNF and FGF. The mRNA fragments also varied within the different groups and mapped to the exonic regions of the transcriptome providing vital insights regarding the changes in cellular transcriptome on the arrival of spermatozoa. The findings of this study suggest that spermatozoa, in contact as well as remotely, alter the EV cargo of female reproductive tract epithelial cells which might be playing an essential role in pre and post-fertilization events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qurat Ul Ain Reshi
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila St. 19, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kasun Godakumara
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila St. 19, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
| | - James Ord
- Institute for Fish and Wildlife Health, University of Bern, Längassstrasse 122, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Keerthie Dissanayake
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Mohammad Mehedi Hasan
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila St. 19, 50411, Tartu, Estonia
- Institute for Women's Health, Maternal and Fetal Medicine Department, University College London, 86-96 Chenies Mews, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Aneta Andronowska
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima St. 10, 10-748, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Paul Heath
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience SITraN, University of Sheffield, 385a Glossop Rd, Sheffield, S10 2HQ, UK
| | - Alireza Fazeli
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi 62, 51006, Tartu, Estonia.
- Department of Pathophysiology, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Ravila St. 19, 50411, Tartu, Estonia.
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, S10 2SF, UK.
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Li Y, Cai L, Guo N, Liu C, Wang M, Zhu L, Li F, Jin L, Sui C. Oviductal extracellular vesicles from women with endometriosis impair embryo development. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1171778. [PMID: 37409222 PMCID: PMC10319124 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1171778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the influence of oviductal extracellular vesicles from patients with endometriosis on early embryo development. Design In vitro experimental study. Setting University-affiliated hospital. Patients Women with and without endometriosis who underwent hysterectomy (n = 27 in total). Interventions None. Main outcome measures Oviductal extracellular vesicles from patients with endometriosis (oEV-EMT) or without endometriosis (oEV-ctrl) were isolated and co-cultured with two-cell murine embryos for 75 hours. Blastocyst rates were recorded. RNA sequencing was used to identify the differentially expressed genes in blastocysts cultured either with oEV-EMT or with oEV-ctrl. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis were performed to identify potential biological processes in embryos that oEV-EMT affects. The functions of oEV on early embryo development were determined by reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, mitochondrial membrane potentials (MMP), total cell numbers, and apoptotic cell proportions. Results Extracellular vesicles were successfully isolated from human Fallopian tubal fluid, and their characterizations were described. The blastocyst rates were significantly decreased in the oEV-EMT group. RNA sequencing revealed that oxidative phosphorylation was down-regulated in blastocysts cultured with oEV-EMT. Analysis of oxidative stress and apoptosis at the blastocysts stage showed that embryos cultured with oEV-EMT had increased ROS levels, decreased MMP, and increased apoptotic index. Total cell numbers were not influenced. Conclusion Oviductal extracellular vesicles from patients with endometriosis negatively influence early embryo development by down-regulating oxidative phosphorylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuehan Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lei Cai
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Na Guo
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lixia Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Fei Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lei Jin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Cong Sui
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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3
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Gonzalez Fernandez J, Moncayo Arlandi J, Ochando A, Simon C, Vilella F. The role of extracellular vesicles in intercellular communication in human reproduction. Clin Sci (Lond) 2023; 137:281-301. [PMID: 36762584 DOI: 10.1042/cs20220793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Embryo-maternal cross-talk has emerged as a vitally important process for embryo development and implantation, which is driven by secreted factors and extracellular vesicles (EVs). The EV cargo of bioactive molecules significantly influences target cells and primes them for critical stages of reproductive biology, including embryo development, adhesion, and implantation. Recent research has suggested that EVs and their cargo represent a powerful non-invasive tool that can be leveraged to assess embryo and maternal tissue quality during assisted reproduction treatments. Here, we review the current scientific literature regarding the intercellular cross-talk between embryos and maternal tissues from fertilization to implantation, focusing on human biology and signaling mechanisms identified in animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Gonzalez Fernandez
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, C/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012, Valencia, Spain
| | - Javier Moncayo Arlandi
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, C/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ana Ochando
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, C/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012, Valencia, Spain
| | - Carlos Simon
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, C/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012, Valencia, Spain
| | - Felipe Vilella
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, C/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012, Valencia, Spain
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4
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Li Y, Liu C, Guo N, Cai L, Wang M, Zhu L, Li F, Jin L, Sui C. Extracellular vesicles from human Fallopian tubal fluid benefit embryo development in vitro. Hum Reprod Open 2023; 2023:hoad006. [PMID: 36895886 PMCID: PMC9991590 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoad006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do extracellular vesicles (EVs) from human Fallopian tubes exert an influence on early embryo development in vitro? SUMMARY ANSWER Human Fallopian tube EVs carrying miRNAs increase murine embryo viability in vitro. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Oviductal EVs (oEVs) are recently identified key players in embryo-oviduct interactions that contribute to successful pregnancy in vivo. Their absence in current in vitro systems may partly explain the suboptimal embryo development observed; therefore, further knowledge is needed about their impact on early embryos. STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION The oEVs were isolated from the luminal fluid of human Fallopian tubes using ultracentrifugation. We cocultured oEVs with murine two-cell embryos until the blastocyst stage. The study was conducted between August 2021 and July 2022. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS A total of 23 premenopausal women were recruited for Fallopian-tubes collection, and the oEVs were isolated. The micro RNA (miRNA) contents were detected using high-throughput sequencing and their target genes and effects were analyzed. After in vitro culture with or without oEVs, the blastocyst and hatching rates were recorded. Furthermore, for the blastocysts formed, we assessed the total cell number, inner cell mass proportion, reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, number of apoptotic cells, and mRNA expression levels of genes involved in development. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE EVs were successfully isolated from the human Fallopian tubal fluid and the concentrations were evaluated. A total of 79 known miRNAs were identified from eight samples that had been sequenced, all involved in various biological processes. The blastocyst rate, hatching rate, as well as total cell number of blastocysts were significantly increased in the oEVs-treated groups (P < 0.05 versus untreated), while the proportion of inner cell mass showed no significant difference between groups. ROS levels and apoptotic cell proportions were decreased in the oEVs-treated groups (P < 0.05 versus untreated). The genes, Actr3 (actin-related protein 3), Eomes (eomesodermin), and Wnt3a (Wnt family member 3A) were upregulated in blastocysts in the oEVs-treated group. LARGE SCALE DATA Data are available from Gene Expression Omnibus: Accession number: GSE225122. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION The Fallopian tubes in the current study were collected from patients with uterine fibroids (the reason they underwent hysterectomy), and this pathological condition may affect the characteristics of EVs in luminal fluid. Also, owing to restrictions for ethical reasons, an in vitro co-culture system using murine embryos was used instead of human embryos, and the findings may not be transferable. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Deciphering miRNA contents in human oEVs and providing new evidence that oEVs benefit embryo development in vitro will not only increase our knowledge on embryo-oviduct communication but also potentially improve ART outcomes. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This study was supported by the National Key Research and Development Project of China (2021YFC2700603). No competing interests are declared.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuehan Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Chang Liu
- Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Na Guo
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Cai
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Lixia Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Jin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
| | - Cong Sui
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
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5
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Thompson RE, Meyers MA, Veeramachaneni DNR, Pukazhenthi BS, Hollinshead FK. Equine Oviductal Organoid Generation and Cryopreservation. Methods Protoc 2022; 5:mps5030051. [PMID: 35736552 PMCID: PMC9230449 DOI: 10.3390/mps5030051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Organoids are a type of three-dimensional (3D) cell culture that more closely mimic the in vivo environment and can be maintained in the long term. To date, oviductal organoids have only been reported in laboratory mice, women, and cattle. Equine oviductal organoids were generated and cultured for 42 days (including 3 passages and freeze-thawing at passage 1). Consistent with the reports in mouse and human oviductal organoids, the equine oviductal organoids revealed round cell clusters with a central lumen. Developing a 3D model of the mare oviduct may allow for an increased understanding of their normal physiology, including hormonal regulation. These organoids may provide an environment that mimics the in vivo equine oviduct and facilitate improved in vitro embryo production in equids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riley E. Thompson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA; (M.A.M.); (F.K.H.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Mindy A. Meyers
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA; (M.A.M.); (F.K.H.)
| | | | - Budhan S. Pukazhenthi
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA;
| | - Fiona K. Hollinshead
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA; (M.A.M.); (F.K.H.)
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6
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Fu TY, Wang SH, Lin TY, Shen PC, Chang SC, Lin YH, Chou CJ, Yu YH, Yang KT, Huang CW, Shaw SW, Peng SY. The Exploration of miRNAs From Porcine Fallopian Tube Stem Cells on Porcine Oocytes. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:869217. [PMID: 35615247 PMCID: PMC9125035 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.869217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Fallopian tube is essential to fertilization and embryonic development. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) from Fallopian tube containing biological regulatory factors, such as lipids, proteins and microRNAs (miRNAs) serve as the key role. At present, studies on oocytes from porcine oviduct and components from EVs remain limited. We aim to explore the effect of EVs secreted by porcine fallopian tube stem cells (PFTSCs) on oocyte. When the fifth-generation PFTSCs reached 80–90% of confluency, the pig in vitro maturation medium was utilized, and the conditioned medium collected for oocyte incubations. To realize the functions of EVs, several proteins were used to determine whether extracted EVs were cell-free. Field emission scanning electron microscope and nanoparticle tracking analyzer were used to observe the morphology. By next generation sequencing, 267 miRNAs were identified, and those with higher expression were selected to analyze the Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment maps. The selected miR-152-3p, miR-148a-3p, miR-320a-3p, let-7f-5p, and miR-22-3p, were predicted to target Cepb1 gene affecting MAPK pathway. Of the five miRNAs, miR-320a-3p showed significant difference in maturation rate in vitro maturation. The blastocyst rate of pig embryos was also significantly enhanced by adding 50 nM miR-320a-3p. In vitro culture with miR-320a-3p, the blastocyst rate was significantly higher, but the cleavage rate and cell numbers were not. The CM of PFTSCs effectively improves porcine oocyte development. The miRNAs in EVs are sequenced and identified. miR-320a-3p not only helps the maturation, but also increases the blastocyst rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzu-Yen Fu
- Department of Animal Science, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Hsuan Wang
- Department of Animal Science, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Yi Lin
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Perng-Chih Shen
- Department of Animal Science, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan
| | - Shen-Chang Chang
- Kaohsiung Animal Propagation Station, Livestock Research Institute, Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, Pingtung, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Han Lin
- Department of Animal Science, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Jen Chou
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hsiang Yu
- Department of Biotechnology and Animal Science, National Ilan University, Yilan, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Tai Yang
- Department of Animal Science, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Wei Huang
- Department of Tropical Agriculture and International Cooperation, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan
| | - Steven W. Shaw
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Prenatal Cell and Gene Therapy Group, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Steven W. Shaw
| | - Shao-Yu Peng
- Department of Animal Science, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung, Taiwan
- Shao-Yu Peng
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Kölle S. Sperm-oviduct interactions: Key factors for sperm survival and maintenance of sperm fertilizing capacity. Andrology 2022; 10:837-843. [PMID: 35340118 PMCID: PMC9321146 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Although millions or even billions of sperm are deposited in the female genital tract, only very few sperm reach the oocyte, and only one single spermatozoon will successfully fertilize. During the journey of the sperm within the female genital tract, the interactions between spermatozoa and fallopian tube are critical for sperm selection, sperm survival, and maintenance of sperm fertilizing capacity. Results This review will provide a comprehensive overview of the latest findings regarding sperm transport and behavior of sperm within the oviduct, sperm selection in the oviduct, the formation of the sperm reservoir, and the release of sperm in the presence of the oocyte. It will primarily focus on recent novel insights on sperm‐oviduct interactions, which have been obtained by cutting‐edge technologies under in vivo or near in vivo conditions. Conclusions The comprehensive analysis of the findings to date will elucidate the complex molecular changes in the tubal epithelium, which are induced by the presence of the sperm and will highlight how the epithelial cells of this organ affect transport, behavior, and function of sperm. This knowledge is essential for scientists and clinicians involved in assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Kölle
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
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8
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Thompson RE, Bouma GJ, Hollinshead FK. The Roles of Extracellular Vesicles and Organoid Models in Female Reproductive Physiology. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063186. [PMID: 35328607 PMCID: PMC8954697 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Culture model systems that can recapitulate the anatomy and physiology of reproductive organs, such as three-dimensional (3D) organoid culture systems, limit the cost and welfare concerns associated with a research animal colony and provide alternative approaches to study specific processes in humans and animals. These 3D models facilitate a greater understanding of the physiological role of individual cell types and their interactions than can be accomplished with traditional monolayer culture systems. Furthermore, 3D culture systems allow for the examination of specific cellular, molecular, or hormonal interactions, without confounding factors that occur with in vivo models, and provide a powerful approach to study physiological and pathological reproductive conditions. The goal of this paper is to review and compare organoid culture systems to other in vitro cell culture models, currently used to study female reproductive physiology, with an emphasis on the role of extracellular vesicle interactions. The critical role of extracellular vesicles for intercellular communication in physiological processes, including reproduction, has been well documented, and an overview of the roles of extracellular vesicles in organoid systems will be provided. Finally, we will propose future directions for understanding the role of extracellular vesicles in normal and pathological conditions of reproductive organs, utilizing 3D organoid culture systems.
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9
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Yi C, Ni Y, Sun P, Gao T, Li K. Differential Size Distribution and Estrogen Receptor Cargo of Oviductal Extracellular Vesicles at Various Stages of Estrous Cycle in Mice. Reprod Sci 2022; 29:2847-2858. [PMID: 35137347 PMCID: PMC9537198 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-00862-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Oviductal extracellular vesicles (OEVs) play an important role in fertilization and embryo development. However, it remains largely unknown whether the size and protein cargo of OEVs change during the estrous cycle in mice. This study analyzed the changes in the size distribution and protein cargo of OEVs at four stages of the estrous cycle in mice. The distribution widths of OEVs according to the estrous cycle stage were as follows: proestrus, 20–690 nm in diameter, with two peaks at 50 and 250 nm; estrus, 22–420 nm in diameter, with two peaks at 40 and 200 nm; metestrus, 30–70 nm diameter, with a single peak at 40 nm; and diestrus, 10–26 nm diameter, with a single peak at 20 nm. The estrogen receptor (ER) level in OEVs at the proestrus stage differed significantly from that at estrus (P = 0.013) and diestrus (P = 0.005). The levels of CD9 and Hsc70 fluctuated across the four stages, although with no significant differences. Furthermore, OEVs were observed among the cilia and microvilli of epithelial cells at the proestrus, estrus, and diestrus stages, but not at the metestrus stage. The number of observed OEVs was the highest at the proestrus stage, followed by the estrus, and the diestrus stage. Endosomes were also observed at the estrus and diestrus stages. The change of the OEV size and ER cargo is associated with the estrous cycle in mice. Our findings increase the understanding of the physiological characteristics of OEVs, which may have clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenchen Yi
- Institute for Reproductive Health, Hang Medical College, Hangzhou, 310013, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ya Ni
- Institute for Reproductive Health, Hang Medical College, Hangzhou, 310013, Zhejiang, China
| | - Peibei Sun
- Institute for Reproductive Health, Hang Medical College, Hangzhou, 310013, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tian Gao
- Institute for Reproductive Health, Hang Medical College, Hangzhou, 310013, Zhejiang, China
| | - Kun Li
- Institute for Reproductive Health, Hang Medical College, Hangzhou, 310013, Zhejiang, China.
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10
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Segura-Benítez M, Carbajo-García MC, Corachán A, Faus A, Pellicer A, Ferrero H. Proteomic analysis of extracellular vesicles secreted by primary human epithelial endometrial cells reveals key proteins related to embryo implantation. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:3. [PMID: 34980157 PMCID: PMC8722215 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-021-00879-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Successful implantation is dependent on coordination between maternal endometrium and embryo, and the role of EVs in the required cross-talk cell-to-cell has been recently established. In this regard, it has been reported that EVs secreted by the maternal endometrium can be internalized by human trophoblastic cells transferring their contents and enhancing their adhesive and invasive capacity. This is the first study to comprehensively evaluate three EV isolation methods on human endometrial epithelial cells in culture and to describe the proteomic content of EVs secreted by pHEECs from fertile women. METHODS Ishikawa cells and pHEECs were in vitro cultured and hormonally treated; subsequently, conditioned medium was collected and EVs isolated. Ishikawa cells were used for the comparison of EVs isolation methods ultracentrifugation, ExoQuick-TC and Norgen Cell Culture Media Exosome Purification Kit (n = 3 replicates/isolation method). pHEECs were isolated from endometrial biopsies (n = 8/replicate; 3 replicates) collected from healthy oocyte donors with confirmed fertility, and protein content of EVs isolated by the most efficient methodology was analysed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. EV concentration and size were analyzed by nanoparticle tracking analysis, EV morphology visualized by transmission electron microscopy and protein marker expression was determined by Western blotting. RESULTS Ultracentrifugation was the most efficient methodology for EV isolation from medium of endometrial epithelial cells. EVs secreted by pHEECs and isolated by ultracentrifugation were heterogeneous in size and expressed EV protein markers HSP70, TSG101, CD9, and CD81. Proteomic analysis identified 218 proteins contained in these EVs enriched in biological processes involved in embryo implantation, including cell adhesion, differentiation, communication, migration, extracellular matrix organization, vasculature development, and reproductive processes. From these proteins, 82 were selected based on their functional relevance in implantation success as possible implantation biomarkers. CONCLUSIONS EV protein cargos are implicated in biological processes related to endometrial receptivity, embryo implantation, and early embryo development, supporting the concept of a communication system between the embryo and the maternal endometrium via EVs. Identified proteins may define new biomarkers of endometrial receptivity and implantation success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Segura-Benítez
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- Departamento de Pediatría, Obstetricia Y Ginecología, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - María Cristina Carbajo-García
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- Departamento de Pediatría, Obstetricia Y Ginecología, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ana Corachán
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- Departamento de Pediatría, Obstetricia Y Ginecología, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Amparo Faus
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Antonio Pellicer
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Hortensia Ferrero
- Fundación IVI, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain.
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11
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Abstract
Sperm selection in the female reproductive tract (FRT) is sophisticated. Only about 1,000 sperm out of millions in an ejaculate reach the fallopian tube and thus have a chance of fertilizing an oocyte. In assisted reproduction techniques, sperm are usually selected using their density or motility, characteristics that do not reflect their fertilization competence and, therefore, might result in failure to fertilize the oocyte. Although sperm processing in in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI) bypasses many of the selection processes in the FRT, selection by the cumulus mass and the zona pellucida remain intact. By contrast, the direct injection of a sperm into an oocyte in intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) bypasses all natural selection barriers and, therefore, increases the risk of transferring paternal defects such as fragmented DNA and genomic abnormalities in sperm to the resulting child. Research into surrogate markers of fertilization potential and into simulating the natural sperm selection processes has progressed. However, methods of sperm isolation - such as hyaluronic acid-based selection and microfluidic isolation based on sperm tactic responses - use only one or two parameters and are not comparable with the multistep sperm selection processes naturally occurring within the FRT. Fertilization-competent sperm require a panel of molecules, including zona pellucida-binding proteins and ion channel proteins, that enable them to progress through the FRT to achieve fertilization. The optimal artificial sperm selection method will, therefore, probably need to use a multiparameter tool that incorporates the molecular signature of sperm with high fertilization potential, and their responses to external cues, within a microfluidic system that can replicate the physiological processes of the FRT in vitro.
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12
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Al-Dossary AA, Tawfik EA, Isichei AC, Sun X, Li J, Alshehri AA, Alomari M, Almughem FA, Aldossary AM, Sabit H, Almalik AM. Engineered EV-Mimetic Nanoparticles as Therapeutic Delivery Vehicles for High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13123075. [PMID: 34203051 PMCID: PMC8234974 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13123075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In this review, we begin with the role of natural extracellular vesicles (EVs) in high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC). Then, we narrow our focus on the advantages of using EV-mimetic nanoparticles as a delivery vehicle for RNAi therapy and other chemotherapeutics. Furthermore, we discuss the challenges of the clinical translation of engineering EV mimetic drug delivery systems and the promising directions of further development. Abstract High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) is the most lethal gynecological malignancy among women. Several obstacles impede the early diagnosis and effective treatment options for ovarian cancer (OC) patients, which most importantly include the development of platinum-drug-resistant strains. Currently, extensive efforts are being put into the development of strategies capable of effectively circumventing the physical and biological barriers present in the peritoneal cavity of metastatic OC patients, representing a late stage of gastrointestinal and gynecological cancer with an extremely poor prognosis. Naturally occurring extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been shown to play a pivotal role in progression of OC and are now being harnessed as a delivery vehicle for cancer chemotherapeutics. However, there are limitations to their clinical application due to current challenges in their preparation techniques. Intriguingly, there is a recent drive towards the use of engineered synthetic EVs for the delivery of chemotherapeutics and RNA interference therapy (RNAi), as they show the promise of overcoming the obstacles in the treatment of OC patients. This review discusses the therapeutic application of EVs in OC and elucidates the potential use of engineered EV-mimetic nanoparticles as a delivery vehicle for RNAi therapy and other chemotherapeutics, which would potentially improve clinical outcomes of OC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amal A. Al-Dossary
- Department of Basic Sciences, Deanship of Preparatory Year and Supporting Studies, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 1982, Dammam 34212, Saudi Arabia;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +966-1-333-31137
| | - Essam A. Tawfik
- National Center for Pharmaceutical Technology, Life Science and Environment Research Institute, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), P.O. Box 6086, Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia; (E.A.T.); (A.A.A.); (F.A.A.); (A.M.A.)
| | - Adaugo C. Isichei
- Department of Basic Sciences, Deanship of Preparatory Year and Supporting Studies, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 1982, Dammam 34212, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Xin Sun
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (X.S.); (J.L.)
| | - Jiahe Li
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (X.S.); (J.L.)
| | - Abdullah A. Alshehri
- National Center for Pharmaceutical Technology, Life Science and Environment Research Institute, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), P.O. Box 6086, Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia; (E.A.T.); (A.A.A.); (F.A.A.); (A.M.A.)
| | - Munther Alomari
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 1982, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Fahad A. Almughem
- National Center for Pharmaceutical Technology, Life Science and Environment Research Institute, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), P.O. Box 6086, Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia; (E.A.T.); (A.A.A.); (F.A.A.); (A.M.A.)
| | - Ahmad M. Aldossary
- National Center of Biotechnology, Life Science and Environment Research Institute, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), P.O. Box 6086, Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Hussein Sabit
- Department of Genetics Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 1982, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Abdulaziz M. Almalik
- National Center for Pharmaceutical Technology, Life Science and Environment Research Institute, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), P.O. Box 6086, Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia; (E.A.T.); (A.A.A.); (F.A.A.); (A.M.A.)
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13
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Abstract
Within the reproductive tract, distinct cell types must have precisely controlled communication for complex processes such as gamete production, fertilisation and implantation. Intercellular communication in many physiological processes involves extracellular vesicles (EVs). In reproductive systems, EVs have been implicated in many aspects, from gamete maturation to embryo development. Sperm develop within the testis and then exit into the epididymis in an immature form, lacking motility and fertilising capabilities. Due to their small size, compact nature of the nucleus and the lack of specific organelles, sperm are unable to perform de novo protein synthesis, and thus rely on extrinsic signals delivered from the external milieu to gain full function. Mounting evidence points to EVs as being a major provider of these signals, not just within the male reproductive tract but also within the female as the sperm make their way through a seemingly hostile environment to the oocyte. In this chapter, we review the current knowledge on EVs as mediators of sperm maturation and function and highlight their potential roles in male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie J Foot
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
| | - Sharad Kumar
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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14
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Extracellular Vesicles, the Road toward the Improvement of ART Outcomes. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10112171. [PMID: 33233342 PMCID: PMC7700519 DOI: 10.3390/ani10112171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, farm animal industries use assisted reproductive technologies (ART) as a tool to manage herds' reproductive outcomes, for a fast dissemination of genetic improvement as well as to bypass subfertility issues. ART comprise at least one of the following procedures: collection and handling of oocytes, sperm, and embryos in in vitro conditions. Therefore, in these conditions, the interaction with the oviductal environment of gametes and early embryos during fertilization and the first stages of embryo development is lost. As a result, embryos obtained in in vitro fertilization (IVF) have less quality in comparison with those obtained in vivo, and have lower chances to implant and develop into viable offspring. In addition, media currently used for IVF are very similar to those empirically developed more than five decades ago. Recently, the importance of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the fertility process has flourished. EVs are recognized as effective intercellular vehicles for communication as they deliver their cargo of proteins, lipids, and genetic material. Thus, during their transit through the female reproductive tract both gametes, oocyte and spermatozoa (that previously encountered EVs produced by male reproductive tract) interact with EVs produced by the female reproductive tract, passing them important information that contributes to a successful fertilization and embryo development. This fact highlights that the reproductive tract EVs cargo has an important role in reproductive events, which is missing in current ART media. This review aims to recapitulate recent advances in EVs functions on the fertilization process, highlighting the latest proposals with an applied approach to enhance ART outcome through EV utilization as an additive to the media of current ART procedures.
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15
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Harris EA, Stephens KK, Winuthayanon W. Extracellular Vesicles and the Oviduct Function. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218280. [PMID: 33167378 PMCID: PMC7663821 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, the oviduct (or the Fallopian tube in humans) can be divided into the infundibulum (responsible for oocyte pick-up), ampulla (site of fertilization), isthmus (where preimplantation embryos develop), and uterotubal junction (where embryos transit to the uterus). The oviductal fluid, as well as extracellular vesicles produced from the oviduct epithelial cells, referred to as oEVs, have been shown to improve the fertilization process, prevent polyspermy, and aid in embryo development. oEVs contain molecular cargos (such as miRNAs, mRNAs, proteins, and lipids) that can be delivered and fuse to recipient cells. oEVs produced from the ampulla appear to be functionally distinct from those produced from the isthmus. In multiple species including mice, cats, dogs, pigs, and cows, oEVs can be incorporated into the oocytes, sperm, and embryos. In this review, we show the positive impact of oEVs on gamete function as well as blastocyst development and how they may improve embryo quality in in vitro conditions in an assisted reproductive technology setting for rodents, domestic animals, farm animals, and humans.
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16
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Capra E, Lange-Consiglio A. The Biological Function of Extracellular Vesicles during Fertilization, Early Embryo-Maternal Crosstalk and Their Involvement in Reproduction: Review and Overview. Biomolecules 2020; 10:E1510. [PMID: 33158009 PMCID: PMC7693816 DOI: 10.3390/biom10111510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Secretory extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membrane-enclosed microparticles that mediate cell to cell communication in proximity to, or distant from, the cell of origin. Cells release a heterogeneous spectrum of EVs depending on their physiologic and metabolic state. Extracellular vesicles are generally classified as either exosomes or microvesicles depending on their size and biogenesis. Extracellular vesicles mediate temporal and spatial interaction during many events in sexual reproduction and supporting embryo-maternal dialogue. Although many omic technologies provide detailed understanding of the molecular cargo of EVs, the difficulty in obtaining populations of homogeneous EVs makes difficult to interpret the molecular profile of the molecules derived from a miscellaneous EV population. Notwithstanding, molecular characterization of EVs isolated in physiological and pathological conditions may increase our understanding of reproductive and obstetric diseases and assist the search for potential non-invasive biomarkers. Moreover, a more precise vision of the cocktail of biomolecules inside the EVs mediating communication between the embryo and mother could provide new insights to optimize the therapeutic action and safety of EV use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Capra
- Istituto di Biologia e Biotecnologia Agraria, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche IBBA CNR, 26900 Lodi, Italy;
| | - Anna Lange-Consiglio
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Milano, 26900 Lodi, Italy
- Centro Clinico-Veterinario e Zootecnico-Sperimentale di Ateneo, Università degli Studi di Milano, 26900 Lodi, Italy
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17
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Qamar AY, Mahiddine FY, Bang S, Fang X, Shin ST, Kim MJ, Cho J. Extracellular Vesicle Mediated Crosstalk Between the Gametes, Conceptus, and Female Reproductive Tract. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:589117. [PMID: 33195625 PMCID: PMC7661581 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.589117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) mediated intracellular communication plays an imperative role in the proper completion of different physiological events. Most of the bio-fluids are enriched with several subpopulations of EVs including exosomes and microvesicles (MVs), with the capacity of transferring different functional molecules (lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids) to target cells. Recipient cells upon receiving the signal molecules undergo different changes that positively affect the structural and functional integrity of the cells. This article was aimed to highlight the role of EVs secreted by gametes, the female reproductive tract, and the growing conceptus in the successful completion of different reproductive events related to gestation. EVs associated with the reproductive system are actively involved in the regulation of different physiological events including gamete maturation, fertilization, and embryo and fetal development. In the reproductive system, EVs mediated intracellular communication is not unidirectional but is rather regulated through crosstalk between the reproductive tract and the growing conceptus. These vesicles are secreted from the ovary, oviductal epithelium, endometrium, developing embryo, and the placenta. The cargo inside these vesicles exerts pleiotropic effects on both maternal and embryonic environments. A better understanding of the EVs-mediated crosstalk will be helpful in the development of useful tools serving both the diagnostic as well as therapeutic needs related to female fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Yar Qamar
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Jhang, Sub-Campus University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Feriel Yasmine Mahiddine
- Department of Theriogenology and Biotechnology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seonggyu Bang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Xun Fang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Sang Tae Shin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Min Jung Kim
- Department of Theriogenology and Biotechnology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jongki Cho
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea
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18
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Lee SH, Saadeldin IM. Exosomes as a Potential Tool for Supporting Canine Oocyte Development. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E1971. [PMID: 33121043 PMCID: PMC7693116 DOI: 10.3390/ani10111971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The canine oviduct is a unique reproductive organ where the ovulated immature oocytes complete their maturation, while the other mammals ovulate matured gametes. Due to their peculiar reproductive characteristics, the in vitro maturation of dog oocytes is still not wellestablished compared with other mammals. Investigations of the microenvironment conditions in the oviductal canal are required to establish a reliable in vitro maturation system in the dog. Previous studies have suggested that the oviduct and its derivatives play a key role in improving fertilization as well as embryo development. In particular, the biological function of oviduct-derived exosomes on sperm and early embryo development has been investigated in porcine, bovine, and murine species. However, the information about their functions on canine cumulus-oocyte complexes is still elusive. Recent canine reproductive studies demonstrated how oviduct-derived extracellular vesicles such as microvesicles and exosomes interact with oocyte-cumulus complexes and how they can play roles in regulating canine cumulus/oocyte communications. In this review, we summarize the physiological characteristics of canine oviduct-derived exosomes and their potential effects on cumulus cells development as well as oocyte in vitro maturation via molecular signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seok Hee Lee
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Islam M. Saadeldin
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 44511, Saudi Arabia;
- Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
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19
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Tetraspanins, More than Markers of Extracellular Vesicles in Reproduction. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21207568. [PMID: 33066349 PMCID: PMC7589920 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21207568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The participation of extracellular vesicles in many cellular processes, including reproduction, is unquestionable. Although currently, the tetraspanin proteins found in extracellular vesicles are mostly applied as markers, increasing evidence points to their role in extracellular vesicle biogenesis, cargo selection, cell targeting, and cell uptake under both physiological and pathological conditions. In this review, we bring other insight into the involvement of tetraspanin proteins in extracellular vesicle physiology in mammalian reproduction. We provide knowledge regarding the involvement of extracellular vesicle tetraspanins in these processes in somatic cells. Furthermore, we discuss the future direction towards an understanding of their functions in the tissues and fluids of the mammalian reproductive system in gamete maturation, fertilization, and embryo development; their involvement in mutual cell contact and communication in their complexity.
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20
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Almiñana C, Bauersachs S. Extracellular vesicles: Multi-signal messengers in the gametes/embryo-oviduct cross-talk. Theriogenology 2020; 150:59-69. [PMID: 32088033 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.01.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as novel cell-to-cell communication mediators in physiological and pathological scenarios. Their ability to transfer their molecular cargo (RNAs, proteins and lipids) from one cell to another, in the vicinity or far from the cell of origin, together with their capacity of exerting a functional impact on the target cell make them valuable diagnostic tools as well as therapeutic vectors in a variety of diseases. In the reproductive field, there is a growing interest in the role of EVs in gamete/embryo-maternal communication and their potential implications in the reproductive success. In this review, we provide current knowledge of EVs secreted by the oviduct (oEVs) and embryos (eEVs), since both have been proposed as key players in the crucial two-way dialogue between the oviduct (lining epithelium and secretions) and the embryo that ensures successful pregnancy. Both oEVs and eEVs molecular cargos and their potential role as multi-signal messengers in the gametes/embryo-oviduct cross-talk and in the embryo-to-embryo communication in different species are also addressed. Eventually, a comparative analysis between oEVs and eEVs has been performed to shed some light on common and specific cargos responsible for their functions supporting the early reproductive events and as prime candidate molecules for improving fertility and assisted reproductive technologies outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Almiñana
- University of Zurich, Genetics and Functional Genomics Group, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, VetSuisse Faculty, Zurich, Switzerland; UMR85 PRC, INRA, CNRS 7247, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France.
| | - Stefan Bauersachs
- University of Zurich, Genetics and Functional Genomics Group, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, VetSuisse Faculty, Zurich, Switzerland.
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21
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de Almeida Monteiro Melo Ferraz M, Nagashima JB, Noonan MJ, Crosier AE, Songsasen N. Oviductal Extracellular Vesicles Improve Post-Thaw Sperm Function in Red Wolves and Cheetahs. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E3733. [PMID: 32466321 PMCID: PMC7279450 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Artificial insemination (AI) is a valuable tool for ex situ wildlife conservation, allowing the re-infusion and dissemination of genetic material, even after death of the donor. However, the application of AI to species conservation is still limited, due mainly to the poor survival of cryopreserved sperm. Recent work demonstrated that oviductal extracellular vesicles (oEVs) improved cat sperm motility and reduced premature acrosomal exocytosis. Here, we build on these findings by describing the protein content of dog and cat oEVs and investigating whether the incubation of cryopreserved red wolf and cheetah sperm with oEVs during thawing improves sperm function. Both red wolf and cheetah sperm thawed with dog and cat oEVs, respectively, had more intact acrosomes than the non-EV controls. Moreover, red wolf sperm thawed in the presence of dog oEVs better maintained sperm motility over time (>15%) though such an improvement was not observed in cheetah sperm. Our work demonstrates that dog and cat oEVs carry proteins important for sperm function and improve post-thaw motility and/or acrosome integrity of red wolf and cheetah sperm in vitro. The findings show how oEVs can be a valuable tool for improving the success of AI with cryopreserved sperm in threatened species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennifer Beth Nagashima
- Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA; (J.B.N.); (M.J.N.); (A.E.C.); (N.S.)
| | - Michael James Noonan
- Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA; (J.B.N.); (M.J.N.); (A.E.C.); (N.S.)
- The Irving K. Barber School of Arts and Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, 1177 Research Road, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Adrienne E. Crosier
- Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA; (J.B.N.); (M.J.N.); (A.E.C.); (N.S.)
| | - Nucharin Songsasen
- Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA; (J.B.N.); (M.J.N.); (A.E.C.); (N.S.)
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22
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de Almeida Monteiro Melo Ferraz M, Fujihara M, Nagashima JB, Noonan MJ, Inoue-Murayama M, Songsasen N. Follicular extracellular vesicles enhance meiotic resumption of domestic cat vitrified oocytes. Sci Rep 2020; 10:8619. [PMID: 32451384 PMCID: PMC7248092 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-65497-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) contain multiple factors that regulate cell and tissue function. However, understanding of their influence on gametes, including communication with the oocyte, remains limited. In the present study, we characterized the proteome of domestic cat (Felis catus) follicular fluid EVs (ffEV). To determine the influence of follicular fluid EVs on gamete cryosurvival and the ability to undergo in vitro maturation, cat oocytes were vitrified using the Cryotop method in the presence or absence of ffEV. Vitrified oocytes were thawed with or without ffEVs, assessed for survival, in vitro cultured for 26 hours and then evaluated for viability and meiotic status. Cat ffEVs had an average size of 129.3 ± 61.7 nm (mean ± SD) and characteristic doughnut shaped circular vesicles in transmission electron microscopy. Proteomic analyses of the ffEVs identified a total of 674 protein groups out of 1,974 proteins, which were classified as being involved in regulation of oxidative phosphorylation, extracellular matrix formation, oocyte meiosis, cholesterol metabolism, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, and MAPK, PI3K-AKT, HIPPO and calcium signaling pathways. Furthermore, several chaperone proteins associated with the responses to osmotic and thermal stresses were also identified. There were no differences in the oocyte survival among fresh and vitrified oocyte; however, the addition of ffEVs to vitrification and/or thawing media enhanced the ability of frozen-thawed oocytes to resume meiosis. In summary, this study is the first to characterize protein content of cat ffEVs and their potential roles in sustaining meiotic competence of cryopreserved oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mayako Fujihara
- Wildlife Research Center, Kyoto University, 2-24 Tanaka-Sekiden-cho, Sakyo, Kyoto, 606-8203, Japan
| | - Jennifer Beth Nagashima
- Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, Virginia, 22630, USA
| | - Michael James Noonan
- Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, Virginia, 22630, USA
| | - Miho Inoue-Murayama
- Wildlife Research Center, Kyoto University, 2-24 Tanaka-Sekiden-cho, Sakyo, Kyoto, 606-8203, Japan
- Wildlife Genome Collaborative Research Group, National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8506, Japan
| | - Nucharin Songsasen
- Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, Virginia, 22630, USA
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23
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Sun X, Ma X, Yang X, Zhang X. Exosomes and Female Infertility. Curr Drug Metab 2020; 20:773-780. [PMID: 31749422 DOI: 10.2174/1389200220666191015155910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Revised: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exosomes are small Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) (40-100 nm) secreted by living cells and mediate the transmission of information between cells. The number and contents of exosomes are associated with diseases such as inflammatory diseases, cancer, metabolic diseases and what we are focusing in this passage-female infertility. OBJECTIVE This review focused on the role of exosomes in oocyte development, declined ovarian function, PCOS, uterine diseases, endometrial receptivity and fallopian tube dysfunction in the female. METHODS We conducted an extensive search for research articles involving relationships between exosomes and female infertility on the bibliographic database. RESULTS It has been reported that exosomes can act as a potential therapeutic device to carry cargoes to treat female infertility. However, the pathophysiological mechanisms of exosomes in female infertility have not been entirely elucidated. Further researches are needed to explore the etiology and provide evidence for potential clinical treatment. CONCLUSIONS This review systematically summarized the role exosomes play in female infertility and its potential as drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Sun
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Embryology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaoling Ma
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Embryology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xia Yang
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Embryology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xuehong Zhang
- Gansu Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Embryology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
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Qu P, Luo S, Du Y, Zhang Y, Song X, Yuan X, Lin Z, Li Y, Liu E. Extracellular vesicles and melatonin benefit embryonic develop by regulating reactive oxygen species and 5-methylcytosine. J Pineal Res 2020; 68:e12635. [PMID: 32012354 PMCID: PMC7154726 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Embryo culture conditions are crucial as they can affect embryo quality and even offspring. Oviductal extracellular vesicles (EVs) long been considered a major factor influencing interactions between the oviduct and embryos, and thus its absence is associated with inferior embryonic development in in vitro culture. Herein, we demonstrated that melatonin is present in oviduct fluids and oviduct fluid-derived EVs. Addition of either EVs (1.87 × 1011 particles/mL) or melatonin (340 ng/mL) led to a significant downregulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and 5-methylcytosine (5-mC), as well as an increase in the blastocyst rate of embryos, which was inhibited by the addition of luzindole-a melatonin receptor agonist. A combination of EVs (1.87 × 1010 particles/mL) and melatonin (at 34.3 pg/mL) led to the same results as well as a significant decrease in the apoptosis index and increase in the inner cell mass (ICM)/trophectoderm (TE) index. These results suggest that an EV-melatonin treatment benefits embryonic development. Our findings provide insights into the role of EVs and melatonin during cell communication and provide new evidence of the communication between embryos and maternal oviduct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengxiang Qu
- Laboratory Animal CentreXi’an Jiaotong University Health Science CentreXi’anShaanxiChina
| | - Shiwei Luo
- Laboratory Animal CentreXi’an Jiaotong University Health Science CentreXi’anShaanxiChina
| | - Yue Du
- NDCLSRadcliff Department of MedicineUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Yanru Zhang
- Laboratory Animal CentreXi’an Jiaotong University Health Science CentreXi’anShaanxiChina
| | - Xiaojie Song
- Laboratory Animal CentreXi’an Jiaotong University Health Science CentreXi’anShaanxiChina
| | - Xuetao Yuan
- Laboratory Animal CentreXi’an Jiaotong University Health Science CentreXi’anShaanxiChina
| | - Zujie Lin
- Laboratory Animal CentreXi’an Jiaotong University Health Science CentreXi’anShaanxiChina
| | - Yuchen Li
- Laboratory Animal CentreXi’an Jiaotong University Health Science CentreXi’anShaanxiChina
| | - Enqi Liu
- Laboratory Animal CentreXi’an Jiaotong University Health Science CentreXi’anShaanxiChina
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25
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Fu B, Ma H, Liu D. Extracellular Vesicles Function as Bioactive Molecular Transmitters in the Mammalian Oviduct: An Inspiration for Optimizing in Vitro Culture Systems and Improving Delivery of Exogenous Nucleic Acids during Preimplantation Embryonic Development. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21062189. [PMID: 32235756 PMCID: PMC7139358 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21062189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Two technologies, in vitro culture and exogenous gene introduction, constitute cornerstones of producing transgenic animals. Although in vitro embryo production techniques can bypass the oviduct during early development, such embryos are inferior to their naturally produced counterparts. In addition, preimplantation embryos are resistant to the uptake of exogenous genetic material. These factors restrict the production of transgenic animals. The discovery of extracellular vesicles (EVs) was a milestone in the study of intercellular signal communication. EVs in the oviduct, known as oviductosomes (OVS), are versatile delivery tools during maternal–embryo communication. In this review, we discuss the important roles of OVS in these interactions and the feasibility of using them as tools for transferring exogenous nucleic acids during early development. We hypothesize that further accurate characterization of OVS cargoes and functions will open new horizons for research on maternal–embryo interactions and enhance the production of transgenic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Fu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry Research, HeiLongJiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin 150086, China; (B.F.); (H.M.)
- Key Laboratory of Combine of Planting and Feeding, Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Hong Ma
- Institute of Animal Husbandry Research, HeiLongJiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin 150086, China; (B.F.); (H.M.)
- Key Laboratory of Combine of Planting and Feeding, Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Di Liu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry Research, HeiLongJiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin 150086, China; (B.F.); (H.M.)
- Key Laboratory of Combine of Planting and Feeding, Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China, Harbin 150086, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-138-4512-0192
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26
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Salilew-Wondim D, Gebremedhn S, Hoelker M, Tholen E, Hailay T, Tesfaye D. The Role of MicroRNAs in Mammalian Fertility: From Gametogenesis to Embryo Implantation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21020585. [PMID: 31963271 PMCID: PMC7014195 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21020585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The genetic codes inscribed during two key developmental processes, namely gametogenesis and embryogenesis, are believed to determine subsequent development and survival of adult life. Once the embryo is formed, its further development mainly depends on its intrinsic characteristics, maternal environment (the endometrial receptivity), and the embryo–maternal interactions established during each phase of development. These developmental processes are under strict genetic regulation that could be manifested temporally and spatially depending on the physiological and developmental status of the cell. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), one of the small non-coding classes of RNAs, approximately 19–22 nucleotides in length, are one of the candidates for post-transcriptional developmental regulators. These tiny non-coding RNAs are expressed in ovarian tissue, granulosa cells, testis, oocytes, follicular fluid, and embryos and are implicated in diverse biological processes such as cell-to-cell communication. Moreover, accumulated evidences have also highlighted that miRNAs can be released into the extracellular environment through different mechanisms facilitating intercellular communication. Therefore, understanding miRNAs mediated regulatory mechanisms during gametogenesis and embryogenesis provides further insights about the molecular mechanisms underlying oocyte/sperm formation, early embryo development, and implantation. Thus, this review highlights the role of miRNAs in mammalian gametogenesis and embryogenesis and summarizes recent findings about miRNA-mediated post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms occurring during early mammalian development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dessie Salilew-Wondim
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Animal Breeding and Husbandry, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115 Bonn, Germany; (D.S.-W.); (M.H.); (E.T.); (T.H.)
| | - Samuel Gebremedhn
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, 1351 Rampart Rd, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
| | - Michael Hoelker
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Animal Breeding and Husbandry, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115 Bonn, Germany; (D.S.-W.); (M.H.); (E.T.); (T.H.)
- Teaching and Research Station Frankenforst, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Bonn, 53639 Königswinter, Germany
| | - Ernst Tholen
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Animal Breeding and Husbandry, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115 Bonn, Germany; (D.S.-W.); (M.H.); (E.T.); (T.H.)
| | - Tsige Hailay
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Animal Breeding and Husbandry, University of Bonn, Endenicher Allee 15, 53115 Bonn, Germany; (D.S.-W.); (M.H.); (E.T.); (T.H.)
| | - Dawit Tesfaye
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, 1351 Rampart Rd, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-530-564-2806
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27
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Which Low-Abundance Proteins are Present in the Human Milieu of Gamete/Embryo Maternal Interaction? Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20215305. [PMID: 31653120 PMCID: PMC6861935 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20215305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Revised: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The improvement of the embryo culture media is of high relevance due to its influence on successful implantation rates, pregnancy, neonatal outcomes, and potential effects in adult life. The ideal conditions for embryo development are those naturally occurring in the female reproductive tract, i.e., the oviductal and uterine fluids. To shed light on the differences between chemical and natural media, we performed the first comparative study of the low abundance proteins in plasma, uterine, and oviductal fluid collected, simultaneously, from healthy and fertile women that underwent a salpingectomy. The rationale for this design derives from the fact that high-abundant proteins in these fluids are usually those coming from blood serum and frequently mask the detection of low abundant proteins with a potentially significant role in specific processes related to the embryo–maternal interaction. The proteomic analysis by 1D-nano LC ESI-MSMS detected several proteins in higher amounts in oviductal fluid when compared to uterine and plasma samples (RL3, GSTA1, EZRI, DPYSL3, GARS, HSP90A). Such oviductal fluid proteins could be a target to improve fertilization rates and early embryo development if used in the culture media. In conclusion, this study presents a high-throughput analysis of female reproductive tract fluids and contributes to the knowledge of oviductal and uterine secretome.
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28
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Ferraz MDAMM, Carothers A, Dahal R, Noonan MJ, Songsasen N. Oviductal extracellular vesicles interact with the spermatozoon's head and mid-piece and improves its motility and fertilizing ability in the domestic cat. Sci Rep 2019; 9:9484. [PMID: 31263184 PMCID: PMC6603010 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-45857-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Fertilization and early embryo development are regulated by a unique maternal-gamete/embryo cross-talk within the oviduct. Recent studies have shown that extracellular vesicles (EVs) within the oviduct play important roles in mediating this developmental process. Here, we examined the influence of oviductal EVs on sperm function in the domestic cat. We demonstrated that (1) EVs are enriched in proteins related to energy metabolism, membrane modification, and reproductive function; (2) EVs bound and fused with the membranes of the acrosome and mid piece; and (3) incubating sperm with EVs improved motility, fertilizing capacity of cat spermatozoa and prevented acrosomal exocytosis in vitro. These findings indicated that oviductal EVs mediate sperm function and fertilization in the cat and provides new insights to improve sperm cryopreservation and in vitro fertilization in the domestic and wild felids and human.
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Affiliation(s)
- M de A M M Ferraz
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, Virginia, 22630, USA.
| | - A Carothers
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, Virginia, 22630, USA
| | - R Dahal
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, Virginia, 22630, USA
| | - M J Noonan
- Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, Virginia, 22630, USA
- Department of Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, 20742, USA
| | - N Songsasen
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, Virginia, 22630, USA
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29
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Almiñana C, Bauersachs S. Extracellular Vesicles in the Oviduct: Progress, Challenges and Implications for the Reproductive Success. Bioengineering (Basel) 2019; 6:bioengineering6020032. [PMID: 31013857 PMCID: PMC6632016 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering6020032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The oviduct is the anatomical part of the female reproductive tract where the early reproductive events take place, from gamete transport, fertilization and early embryo development to the delivery of a competent embryo to the uterus, which can implant and develop to term. The success of all these events rely upon a two-way dialogue between the oviduct (lining epithelium and secretions) and the gametes/embryo(s). Recently, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been identified as major components of oviductal secretions and pointed to as mediators of the gamete/embryo-maternal interactions. EVs, comprising exosomes and microvesicles, have emerged as important agents of cell-to-cell communication by the transfer of biomolecules (i.e., mRNAs, miRNAs, proteins) that can modulate the activities of recipient cells. Here, we provide the current knowledge of EVs in the oviductal environment, from isolation to characterization, and a description of the EVs molecular content and associated functional aspects in different species. The potential role of oviductal EVs (oEVs) as modulators of gamete/embryo-oviduct interactions and their implications in the success of early reproductive events is addressed. Lastly, we discuss current challenges and future directions towards the potential application of oEVs as therapeutic vectors to improve pregnancy disorders, infertility problems and increase the success of assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Almiñana
- Genetics and Functional Genomics Group, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
- UMR85 PRC, INRA, CNRS 7247, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380 Nouzilly, France.
| | - Stefan Bauersachs
- Genetics and Functional Genomics Group, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
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30
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Gionfra F, De Vito P, Pallottini V, Lin HY, Davis PJ, Pedersen JZ, Incerpi S. The Role of Thyroid Hormones in Hepatocyte Proliferation and Liver Cancer. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:532. [PMID: 31543862 PMCID: PMC6730500 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid hormones T3 and T4 (thyroxine) control a wide variety of effects related to development, differentiation, growth and metabolism, through their interaction with nuclear receptors. But thyroid hormones also produce non-genomic effects that typically start at the plasma membrane and are mediated mainly by integrin αvβ3, although other receptors such as TRα and TRβ are also able to elicit non-genomic responses. In the liver, the effects of thyroid hormones appear to be particularly important. The liver is able to regenerate, but it is subject to pathologies that may lead to cancer, such as fibrosis, cirrhosis, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. In addition, cancer cells undergo a reprogramming of their metabolism, resulting in drastic changes such as aerobic glycolysis instead of oxidative phosphorylation. As a consequence, the pyruvate kinase isoform M2, the rate-limiting enzyme of glycolysis, is dysregulated, and this is considered an important factor in tumorigenesis. Redox equilibrium is also important, in fact cancer cells give rise to the production of more reactive oxygen species (ROS) than normal cells. This increase may favor the survival and propagation of cancer cells. We evaluate the possible mechanisms involving the plasma membrane receptor integrin αvβ3 that may lead to cancer progression. Studying diseases that affect the liver and their experimental models may help to unravel the cellular pathways mediated by integrin αvβ3 that can lead to liver cancer. Inhibitors of integrin αvβ3 might represent a future therapeutic tool against liver cancer. We also include information on the possible role of exosomes in liver cancer, as well as on recent strategies such as organoids and spheroids, which may provide a new tool for research, drug discovery, and personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Gionfra
- Department of Sciences, University Roma Tre, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo De Vito
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Hung-Yun Lin
- Ph.D. Program for Cancer Molecular Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Taipei Cancer Center, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Rensselaer, NY, United States
- Traditional Herbal Medicine Research Center of Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Medicine, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, United States
| | - Paul J. Davis
- Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Rensselaer, NY, United States
- Department of Medicine, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, United States
| | - Jens Z. Pedersen
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Sandra Incerpi
- Department of Sciences, University Roma Tre, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Sandra Incerpi
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31
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Fereshteh Z, Bathala P, Galileo DS, Martin-DeLeon PA. Detection of extracellular vesicles in the mouse vaginal fluid: Their delivery of sperm proteins that stimulate capacitation and modulate fertility. J Cell Physiol 2018; 234:12745-12756. [PMID: 30536802 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) were isolated by ultracentrifugation of vaginal luminal fluid (VLF) from superovulated mice and identified for the first time using transmission electron microscopy. Characterized by size and biochemical markers (CD9 and HSC70), EVs were shown to be both microvesicular and exosomal and were dubbed as "Vaginosomes" (VGS). Vaginal cross-sections were analyzed to visualize EVs in situ: EVs were present in the lumen and also embedded between squamous epithelial and keratinized cells, consistent with their endogenous origin. Western blots detected Plasma membrane Ca2+ -ATPase 1 (PMCA1) and tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins in the VGS cargo and also in uterosomes. Flow cytometry revealed that following coincubation of caudal sperm and VLF for 30 min, the frequencies of cells with the highest Sperm adhesion molecule 1 (SPAM1), PMCA1/4, and PMCA1 levels increased 16.4-, 8.2-, and 27-fold, respectively; compared with control coincubated in phosphate buffered saline (PBS). Under identical conditions, sperm tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins were elevated ~3.3-fold, after VLF coincubation. Progesterone-induced acrosome reaction (AR) rates were significantly (p < 0.001) elevated in sperm coincubated with VGS for 10-30 min, compared with PBS. Sperm artificially deposited in the vaginas of superovulated females for these periods also showed significant (p < 0.01) increases in AR rates, compared with PBS. Thus in vitro and in vivo, sperm acquire from the vaginal environment factors that induce capacitation, explaining recent findings for their acrosomal status in the isthmus. Overall, VGS appear to deliver higher levels of proteins involved in preventing premature capacitation and AR than those promoting them. Our findings which have implications for humans open the possibility of new approaches to infertility treatment with exosome therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Fereshteh
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware
| | - Pradeepthi Bathala
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware
| | - Deni S Galileo
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware
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32
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Fereshteh Z, Schmidt SA, Al-Dossary AA, Accerbi M, Arighi C, Cowart J, Song JL, Green PJ, Choi K, Yoo S, Martin-DeLeon PA. Murine Oviductosomes (OVS) microRNA profiling during the estrous cycle: Delivery of OVS-borne microRNAs to sperm where miR-34c-5p localizes at the centrosome. Sci Rep 2018; 8:16094. [PMID: 30382141 PMCID: PMC6208369 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-34409-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Oviductosomes (OVS) are nano-sized extracellular vesicles secreted in the oviductal luminal fluid by oviductal epithelial cells and known to be involved in sperm capacitation and fertility. Although they have been shown to transfer encapsulated proteins to sperm, cargo constituents other than proteins have not been identified. Using next-generation sequencing, we demonstrate that OVS are carriers of microRNAs (miRNAs), with 272 detected throughout the estrous cycle. Of the 50 most abundant, 6 (12%) and 2 (4%) were expressed at significantly higher levels (P < 0.05) at metestrus/diestrus and proestrus/estrus. RT-qPCR showed that selected miRNAs are present in oviductal epithelial cells in significantly (P < 0.05) lower abundance than in OVS, indicating selective miRNA packaging. The majority (64%) of the top 25 OVS miRNAs are present in sperm. These miRNAs’ potential target list is enriched with transcription factors, transcription regulators, and protein kinases and there are several embryonic developmentally-related genes. Importantly, OVS can deliver to sperm miRNAs, including miR-34c-5p which is essential for the first cleavage and is solely sperm-derived in the zygote. Z-stack of confocal images of sperm co-incubated with OVS loaded with labeled miRNAs showed the intracellular location of the delivered miRNAs. Interestingly, individual miRNAs were predominantly localized in specific head compartments, with miR-34c-5p being highly concentrated at the centrosome where it is known to function. These results, for the first time, demonstrate OVS’ ability to contribute to the sperm’s miRNA repertoire (an important role for solely sperm-derived zygotic miRNAs) and the physiological relevance of an OVS-borne miRNA that is delivered to sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Fereshteh
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, 19716, USA
| | - Skye A Schmidt
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, Delaware Biotechnology Institute, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, 19711, USA
| | - Amal A Al-Dossary
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, 19716, USA.,Department of Biology, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 1982, Dammam, 31441, Saudi Arabia
| | - Monica Accerbi
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, Delaware Biotechnology Institute, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, 19711, USA
| | - Cecilia Arighi
- Center for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, 19711, USA
| | - Julie Cowart
- Center for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, 19711, USA
| | - Jia L Song
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, 19716, USA
| | - Pamela J Green
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, Delaware Biotechnology Institute, University of Delaware, Newark, DE, 19711, USA
| | - Kyungmin Choi
- A.I. DuPont Hospital for Children, 1600 Rockland Rd, Wilmington, Delaware, 19803, USA
| | - Soonmoon Yoo
- A.I. DuPont Hospital for Children, 1600 Rockland Rd, Wilmington, Delaware, 19803, USA
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33
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Almiñana C, Tsikis G, Labas V, Uzbekov R, da Silveira JC, Bauersachs S, Mermillod P. Deciphering the oviductal extracellular vesicles content across the estrous cycle: implications for the gametes-oviduct interactions and the environment of the potential embryo. BMC Genomics 2018; 19:622. [PMID: 30134841 PMCID: PMC6103977 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-018-4982-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The success of early reproductive events depends on an appropriate communication between gametes/embryos and the oviduct. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) contained in oviductal secretions have been suggested as new players in mediating this crucial cross-talk by transferring their cargo (proteins, mRNA and small ncRNA) from cell to cell. However, little is known about the oviductal EVs (oEVS) composition and their implications in the reproductive success. The aim of the study was to determine the oEVs content at protein, mRNA and small RNA level and to examine whether the oEVs content is under the hormonal influence of the estrous cycle. Results We identified the presence of oEVs, exosomes and microvesicles, in the bovine oviductal fluid at different stages of the estrous cycle (postovulatory-stage, early luteal phase, late luteal phase and pre-ovulatory stage) and demonstrated that their composition is under hormonal regulation. RNA-sequencing identified 903 differentially expressed transcripts (FDR < 0.001) in oEVs across the estrous cycle. Moreover, small RNA-Seq identified the presence of different types of ncRNAs (miRNAs, rRNA fragments, tRNA fragments, snRNA, snoRNA, and other ncRNAs), which were partially also under hormonal influence. Major differences were found between post-ovulatory and the rest of the stages analyzed for mRNAs. Interesting miRNAs identified in oEVs and showing differential abundance among stages, miR-34c and miR-449a, have been associated with defective cilia in the oviduct and infertility. Furthermore, functional annotation of the differentially abundant mRNAs identified functions related to exosome/vesicles, cilia expression, embryo development and many transcripts encoding ribosomal proteins. Moreover, the analysis of oEVs protein content also revealed changes across the estrous cycle. Mass spectrometry identified 336 clusters of proteins in oEVs, of which 170 were differentially abundant across the estrous cycle (p-value< 0.05, ratio < 0.5 or ratio > 2). Our data revealed proteins related to early embryo development and gamete-oviduct interactions as well as numerous ribosomal proteins. Conclusions Our study provides with the first molecular signature of oEVs across the bovine estrous cycle, revealing marked differences between post- and pre-ovulatory stages. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the potential role of oEVs as modulators of gamete/embryo-maternal interactions and their implications for the reproductive success. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12864-018-4982-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Almiñana
- Department for Farm Animals, University of Zurich, Genetics and Functional Genomics, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, VetSuisse Faculty Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland. .,UMR85 PRC, INRA, CNRS 7247, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France.
| | - G Tsikis
- UMR85 PRC, INRA, CNRS 7247, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - V Labas
- UMR85 PRC, INRA, CNRS 7247, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France.,Plate-forme CIRE, Pôle d'Analyse et d'Imagerie des Biomolécules, INRA, CHRU de Tours, Université de Tours, 37380, Nouzilly, France
| | - R Uzbekov
- Laboratoire Biologie Cellulaire et Microscopie Electronique, Faculté de Médecine, Université François Rabelais, 10 boulevard Tonnellé, 37032, Tours, France.,Faculty of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Moscow State University, 119992, Moscow, Russia
| | - J C da Silveira
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - S Bauersachs
- Department for Farm Animals, University of Zurich, Genetics and Functional Genomics, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, VetSuisse Faculty Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - P Mermillod
- UMR85 PRC, INRA, CNRS 7247, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380, Nouzilly, France
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