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Fountas S, Petinaki E, Bolaris S, Kargakou M, Dafopoulos S, Zikopoulos A, Moustakli E, Sotiriou S, Dafopoulos K. The Roles of GDF-9, BMP-15, BMP-4 and EMMPRIN in Folliculogenesis and In Vitro Fertilization. J Clin Med 2024; 13:3775. [PMID: 38999341 PMCID: PMC11242125 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13133775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF-9) contributes to early ovarian development and oocyte survival. Higher concentrations of GDF-9 in follicular fluid (FF) are associated with oocyte nuclear maturation and optimal embryo development. In in vitro fertilization (IVF), GDF-9 affects the ability of the oocyte to fertilize and subsequent embryonic development. Bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP-15) is involved in the regulation of ovarian function and affects oocyte development. During IVF, BMP-15 contributes to the formation of competent blastocysts. BMP-15 may play a role in embryo implantation by affecting endometrial receptivity. Bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP-4) is involved in the regulation of follicle growth and development and affects granulosa cell (GC) differentiation. In relation to IVF, BMP-4 is important for embryonic development, influences cell fate and differentiation, and plays a role in facilitating embryo-endometrial interactions during the implantation process. Extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN) is associated with ovulation and follicle rupture, promotes the release of mature eggs, and affects the modification of the extracellular matrix of the follicular environment. In IVF, EMMPRIN is involved in embryo implantation by modulating the adhesive properties of endometrial cells and promotes trophoblastic invasion, which is essential for pregnancy to occur. The purpose of the current article is to review the studies and recent findings of GDF-9, BMP-15, BMP-4 and EMMPRIN as fundamental factors in normal follicular development and in vitro fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serafeim Fountas
- Fertility and Sterility Unit, Elena Venizelou General-Maternity District Hospital, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Efthymia Petinaki
- Department of Microbiology, University Hospital of Larissa, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - Stamatis Bolaris
- Fertility and Sterility Unit, Elena Venizelou General-Maternity District Hospital, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Magdalini Kargakou
- Fertility and Sterility Unit, Elena Venizelou General-Maternity District Hospital, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Stefanos Dafopoulos
- Department of Health Sciences, European University Cyprus, 2404 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | | | - Efthalia Moustakli
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Sotirios Sotiriou
- Department of Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Dafopoulos
- ART Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41110 Larissa, Greece
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Tang Y, Lu S, Wei J, Xu R, Zhang H, Wei Q, Han B, Gao Y, Zhao X, Peng S, Pan M, Ma B. Growth differentiation factor 9 regulates the expression of estrogen receptors via Smad2/3 signaling in goat cumulus cells. Theriogenology 2024; 219:65-74. [PMID: 38402699 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Both oocyte secretory factors (OSFs) and estrogen are essential for the development and function of mammalian ovarian follicles, playing synergistic role in regulating oocyte growth. OSFs can significantly affect the biological processes regulated by estrogen in cumulus cells (CCs). It is a scientific question worth investigating whether oocyte secretory factors can influence the expression of estrogen receptors in CCs. In our study, we observed a significant increase in the mRNA and protein expressions of estrogen receptor β (Esr2/ERβ) and G-protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) in cumulus cells of goat cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) cultured in vitro for 6 h. Furthermore, the addition of 10 ng/mL growth-differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) and 5 ng/mL bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) to the culture medium of goat COCs resulted in a significant increase in the expressions of ERβ and GPER in cumulus cells. To explore the mechanism further, we performed micromanipulation to remove oocyte contents and co-cultured the oocytectomized complexes (OOXs) with denuded oocytes (DOs) or GDF9/BMP15. The expressions of ERβ and GPER in the co-culture groups were significantly higher than those in the OOXs group, but there was no difference compared to the COCs group. Mechanistically, we found that SB431542 (inhibitor of GDF9 bioactivity), but not LDN193189 (inhibitor of BMP15 bioactivity), abolished the upregulation of ERβ and GPER in cumulus cells and the activation of Smad2/3 signaling. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that the oocyte secretory factor GDF9 promotes the activation of Smad2/3 signaling in cumulus cells during goat COCs culture in vitro, and the phosphorylation of Smad2/3 induces the expression of estrogen receptors ERβ and GPER in cumulus cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaju Tang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Sihai Lu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Juncai Wei
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Rui Xu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Qiang Wei
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Bin Han
- Yulin Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Service Center, Yulin, 719000, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Yan Gao
- Yulin Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Service Center, Yulin, 719000, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Xiaoe Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Sha Peng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Menghao Pan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China
| | - Baohua Ma
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, PR China.
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Richani D, Poljak A, Wang B, Mahbub SB, Biazik J, Campbell JM, Habibalahi A, Stocker WA, Marinova MB, Nixon B, Bustamante S, Skerrett-Byrne D, Harrison CA, Goldys E, Gilchrist RB. Oocyte and cumulus cell cooperativity and metabolic plasticity under the direction of oocyte paracrine factors. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2024; 326:E366-E381. [PMID: 38197792 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00148.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Mammalian oocytes develop and mature in a mutually dependent relationship with surrounding cumulus cells. The oocyte actively regulates cumulus cell differentiation and function by secreting soluble paracrine oocyte-secreted factors (OSFs). We characterized the molecular mechanisms by which two model OSFs, cumulin and BMP15, regulate oocyte maturation and cumulus-oocyte cooperativity. Exposure to these OSFs during mouse oocyte maturation in vitro altered the proteomic and multispectral autofluorescence profiles of both the oocyte and cumulus cells. In oocytes, cumulin significantly upregulated proteins involved in nuclear function. In cumulus cells, both OSFs elicited marked upregulation of a variety of metabolic processes (mostly anabolic), including lipid, nucleotide, and carbohydrate metabolism, whereas mitochondrial metabolic processes were downregulated. The mitochondrial changes were validated by functional assays confirming altered mitochondrial morphology, respiration, and content while maintaining ATP homeostasis. Collectively, these data demonstrate that cumulin and BMP15 remodel cumulus cell metabolism, instructing them to upregulate their anabolic metabolic processes, while routine cellular functions are minimized in the oocyte during maturation, in preparation for ensuing embryonic development.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Oocyte-secreted factors (OSFs) promote oocyte and cumulus cell cooperativity by altering the molecular composition of both cell types. OSFs downregulate protein catabolic processes and upregulate processes associated with DNA binding, translation, and ribosome assembly in oocytes. In cumulus cells, OSFs alter mitochondrial number, morphology, and function, and enhance metabolic plasticity by upregulating anabolic pathways. Hence, the oocyte via OSFs, instructs cumulus cells to increase metabolic processes on its behalf, thereby subduing oocyte metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dulama Richani
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Anne Poljak
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Facility, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Baily Wang
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Saabah B Mahbub
- ARC Centre of Excellence Centre for Nanoscale Biophotonics, Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Joanna Biazik
- Electron Microscope Unit, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jared M Campbell
- ARC Centre of Excellence Centre for Nanoscale Biophotonics, Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Abbas Habibalahi
- ARC Centre of Excellence Centre for Nanoscale Biophotonics, Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - William A Stocker
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Maria B Marinova
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sonia Bustamante
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Facility, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David Skerrett-Byrne
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Craig A Harrison
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ewa Goldys
- Electron Microscope Unit, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robert B Gilchrist
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Swinerd GW, Alhussini AA, Sczelecki S, Heath D, Mueller TD, McNatty KP, Pitman JL. Molecular forms of BMP15 and GDF9 in mammalian species that differ in litter size. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22428. [PMID: 38104237 PMCID: PMC10725505 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49852-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP15) and growth differentiation factor (GDF9) are critical for ovarian follicular development and fertility and are associated with litter size in mammals. These proteins initially exist as pre-pro-mature proteins, that are subsequently cleaved into biologically active forms. Thus, the molecular forms of GDF9 and BMP15 may provide the key to understanding the differences in litter size determination in mammals. Herein, we compared GDF9 and BMP15 forms in mammals with high (pigs) and low to moderate (sheep) and low (red deer) ovulation-rate. In all species, oocyte lysates and secretions contained both promature and mature forms of BMP15 and GDF9. Whilst promature and mature GDF9 levels were similar between species, deer produced more BMP15 and exhibited, together with sheep, a higher promature:mature BMP15 ratio. N-linked glycosylation was prominant in proregion and mature GDF9 and in proregion BMP15 of pigs, and present in proregion GDF9 of sheep. There was no evidence of secreted native homo- or hetero-dimers although a GDF9 dimer in red deer oocyte lysate was detected. In summary, GDF9 appeared to be equally important in all species regardless of litter size, whilst BMP15 levels were highest in strict monovulatory species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gene W Swinerd
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Abdulaziz A Alhussini
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Sarah Sczelecki
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Derek Heath
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Thomas D Mueller
- Department of Plant Physiology and Biophysics, Julius-Von-Sachs Institute of the University Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Kenneth P McNatty
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Janet L Pitman
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand.
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Krysta-Matter AE, Riepsamen AH, Lien S, Wong WYT, Richani D, Kilani S, Harrison CA, Mallitt KA, Ledger WL, Robertson DM, Gilchrist RB. Application of specific ELISAs for BMP15 and GDF9 to cumulus cell extracts from infertile women. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2023; 578:112049. [PMID: 37666445 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.112049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) and growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) are oocyte-specific paracrine factors which regulate ovarian cumulus cell (CC) functions. This study aimed to investigate if BMP15 and GDF9 bound to CCs can be characterized, quantified, and show an association with IVF outcomes in infertile women. BMP15 and GDF9 ELISAs were validated and applied to discarded CC extracts. Pooled CCs from individual patients were collected from 120 (cohort 1; BMP15 only) and 81 infertility patients (cohort 2; BMP15 and GDF9) undergoing superovulation. BMP15 and GDF9 levels expressed per CC DNA were correlated with maternal age, clinical and embryology data. Total BMP15 and GDF9 were highly correlated with each other (r = 0.9, p < 0.001). The GDF9:BMP15 ratio was unrelated to oocyte number or age. BMP15/CC DNA and GDF9/CC DNA were unaffected by the type of superovulation and were not related to oocyte/embryo outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- A E Krysta-Matter
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia; IVF Australia, Virtus Health, Alexandria, New South Wales, 2035, Australia
| | - A H Riepsamen
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - S Lien
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - W Y T Wong
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - D Richani
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - S Kilani
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia; IVF Australia, Virtus Health, Alexandria, New South Wales, 2035, Australia
| | - C A Harrison
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Victoria, 3800, Australia
| | - K A Mallitt
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia; Centre for Big Data Research in Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - W L Ledger
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia; IVF Australia, Virtus Health, Alexandria, New South Wales, 2035, Australia
| | - D M Robertson
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia
| | - R B Gilchrist
- Fertility & Research Centre, Discipline of Women's Health, School of Clinical Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, New South Wales, 2052, Australia.
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Activin B and Activin C Have Opposing Effects on Prostate Cancer Progression and Cell Growth. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 15:cancers15010147. [PMID: 36612143 PMCID: PMC9817897 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15010147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Current prognostic and diagnostic tests for prostate cancer are not able to accurately distinguish between aggressive and latent cancer. Members of the transforming growth factor-β (TGFB) family are known to be important in regulating prostate cell growth and some have been shown to be dysregulated in prostate cancer. Therefore, the aims of this study were to examine expression of TGFB family members in primary prostate tumour tissue and the phenotypic effect of activins on prostate cell growth. Tissue cores of prostate adenocarcinoma and normal prostate were immuno-stained and protein expression was compared between samples with different Gleason grades. The effect of exogenous treatment with, or overexpression of, activins on prostate cell line growth and migration was examined. Activin B expression was increased in cores containing higher Gleason patterns and overexpression of activin B inhibited growth of PNT1A cells but increased growth and migration of the metastatic PC3 cells compared to empty vector controls. In contrast, activin C expression decreased in higher Gleason grades and overexpression increased growth of PNT1A cells and decreased growth of PC3 cells. In conclusion, increased activin B and decreased activin C expression is associated with increasing prostate tumor grade and therefore have potential as prognostic markers of aggressive prostate cancer.
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Li Y, Adur MK, Lonergan SM, Keating AF, Ross JW. MicroRNA21 inhibition affects porcine oocyte maturation and alters protein expression critical for metabolic pathway function. Mol Reprod Dev 2022; 89:443-458. [PMID: 36001642 PMCID: PMC9804257 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNA21 (MIR21) abundance in porcine oocytes and cumulus cells increases during in vitro maturation. The mechanism by which MIR21 regulates oocyte maturation and the effect on the developmental competence of subsequent embryos remains unclear. The objective of this study was to assess the function of MIR21 during porcine oocyte maturation and its effect on embryonic development. Treatment with peptide nucleic acid MIR21 inhibitor (MIR21-PNA), designed to specifically bind to and prevent MIR21 activity during in vitro oocyte maturation, decreased cumulus cell expansion, and the oocyte ability to achieve metaphase II maturation stage when compared to control groups. Following parthenogenetic activation, the cleavage rate at 48 h in the MIR21-PNA group was decreased (p ≤ 0.03) relative to the control groups. Additionally, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) of oocyte and cumulus cell total protein following MIR21-PNA treatment during in vitro maturation identified changes in signaling pathways with primary involvement of glucose metabolism (GM) pathways. Furthermore, there was no difference (p = 0.21) in oocyte maturation of control and MIR21-PNA treated oocytes when cultured in pyruvate lacking medium. Finally, MIR21-PNA treatment decreased (p = 0.04) glutathione and increased (p = 0.07) reactive oxygen species production in the oocyte. These data suggest that MIR21 influences porcine oocyte maturation by regulating GM pathways in the cumulus-oocyte complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunsheng Li
- Department of Animal ScienceIowa State UniversityAmesIowaUSA,College of Animal Science and TechnologyAnhui Agricultural UniversityHefeiChina
| | | | | | | | - Jason W. Ross
- Department of Animal ScienceIowa State UniversityAmesIowaUSA
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Kristensen SG, Kumar A, Mamsen LS, Kalra B, Pors SE, Bøtkjær JA, Macklon KT, Fedder J, Ernst E, Hardy K, Franks S, Andersen CY. Intrafollicular Concentrations of the Oocyte-secreted Factors GDF9 and BMP15 Vary Inversely in Polycystic Ovaries. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:e3374-e3383. [PMID: 35511085 PMCID: PMC9282257 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgac272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The oocyte-secreted factors growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) play essential roles in follicle development and oocyte maturation, and aberrant regulation might contribute to the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome. OBJECTIVE Are there measurable differences in concentrations of GDF9, BMP15, and the GDF9/BMP15 heterodimer in small antral follicle fluids from women with and without polycystic ovaries (PCO)? DESIGN AND SETTING Follicle fluids (n = 356) were collected from 4- to 11-mm follicles in unstimulated ovaries of 87 women undergoing ovarian tissue cryopreservation for fertility preservation. PATIENTS Twenty-seven women with PCO were identified and 60 women without PCO-like characteristics (non-PCO women) were matched according to age and follicle size. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Intrafollicular concentrations of GDF9, BMP15, GDF9/BMP15 heterodimer, anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), inhibin-A and -B, total inhibin, activin-B and -AB, and follistatin were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. RESULTS The detectability of GDF9, BMP15, and the GDF9/BMP15 heterodimer were 100%, 94.4%, and 91.5%, respectively, and concentrations were significantly negatively correlated with increasing follicle size (P < 0.0001). GDF9 was significantly higher in women with PCO (PCO: 4230 ± 189 pg/mL [mean ± SEM], n = 188; non-PCO: 3498 ± 199 pg/mL, n = 168; P < 0.03), whereas BMP15 was lower in women with PCO (PCO: 431 ± 40 pg/mL, n = 125; non-PCO: 573 ± 55 pg/mL, n = 109; P = 0.10), leading to a significantly higher GDF9:BMP15 ratio in women with PCO (P < 0.01). Significant positive associations between BMP15 and AMH, activins, and inhibins in non-PCO women switched to negative associations in women with PCO. CONCLUSIONS Intrafollicular concentrations of GDF9 and BMP15 varied inversely in women with PCO reflecting an aberrant endocrine environment. An increased GDF9:BMP15 ratio may be a new biomarker for PCO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stine Gry Kristensen
- Correspondence: Stine Gry Kristensen, PhD, Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Section 5701, Copenhagen University Hospital – Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 9, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | | | - Linn Salto Mamsen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Susanne Elisabeth Pors
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jane Alrø Bøtkjær
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kirsten Tryde Macklon
- The Fertility Clinic, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Fedder
- Centre of Andrology & Fertility Clinic, Odense University Hospital, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Erik Ernst
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Horsens Regional Hospital, 8700 Horsens, Denmark
| | - Kate Hardy
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen Franks
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| | - Claus Yding Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
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9
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Effect of cumulin and super-GDF9 in standard and biphasic mouse IVM. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:127-140. [PMID: 34984599 PMCID: PMC8866628 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02382-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE In vitro maturation (IVM) is a technology that generates mature oocytes following culture of immature cumulus-oocyte complexes (COC) in vitro. IVM is characterized by minimal patient stimulation, making it attractive for certain patient groups. Recently, a biphasic IVM system, capacitation (CAPA)-IVM, has shown improved clinical outcomes relative to standard IVM; however, it remains less efficient than IVF. This study assessed whether supplementation of CAPA-IVM culture media with the novel TGFβ superfamily proteins cumulin and super-GDF9 improves subsequent mouse embryo development. METHODS Immature mouse COCs were cultured by standard IVM or biphasic IVM ± cumulin or super-GDF9. RESULTS Both cumulin and super-GDF9 in standard IVM significantly improved day-6 blastocyst rate (53.9% control, 73.6% cumulin, 70.4% super-GDF9; p = 0.006; n = 382-406 oocytes). Cumulin or super-GDF9 in CAPA-IVM did not alter embryo yield or blastocyst cell allocation in an unstimulated model. Moreover, cumulin did not alter these outcomes in a mild PMSG stimulation model. Cumulin in CAPA-IVM significantly increased cumulus cell expression of cumulus expansion genes (Ptgs2, Ptx3, Adamts1, Gfat2) and decreased Lhr expression relative to control. However, cumulin-induced mRNA expression of cumulus cell (Ptgs2, Ptx3) and oocyte genes (Gdf9, Bmp15, Oct4, Stella) in CAPA-IVM remained significantly lower than that of in vivo matured cells. CONCLUSION Cumulin did not provide an additional beneficial effect in biphasic IVM in terms of blastocyst yield and cell allocation; however in standard IVM, cumulin and super-GDF9 significantly improve oocyte developmental competence.
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Tang T, Lin Q, Qin Y, Liang X, Guo Y, Cong P, Liu X, Chen Y, He Z. Effects of bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) knockdown on porcine testis morphology and spermatogenesis. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 32:999-1011. [PMID: 32693912 DOI: 10.1071/rd20056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) is a member of the transforming growth factor-β (TGFB) superfamily that plays an essential role in mammalian ovary development, oocyte maturation and litter size. However, little is known regarding the expression pattern and biological function of BMP15 in male gonads. In this study we established, for the first time, a transgenic pig model with BMP15 constitutively knocked down by short hairpin (sh) RNA. The transgenic boars were fertile, but sperm viability was decreased. Further analysis of the TGFB/SMAD pathway and markers of reproductive capacity, namely androgen receptor and protamine 2, failed to identify any differentially expressed genes. These results indicate that, in the pig, the biological function of BMP15 in the development of male gonads is not as crucial as in ovary development. However, the role of BMP15 in sperm viability requires further investigation. This study provides new insights into the role of BMP15 in male pig reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Qiyuan Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Yufeng Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Xinyu Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Yang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Peiqing Cong
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Xiaohong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Yaosheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China; and Corresponding authors. ;
| | - Zuyong He
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China; and Corresponding authors. ;
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11
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A Comparative Analysis of Oocyte Development in Mammals. Cells 2020; 9:cells9041002. [PMID: 32316494 PMCID: PMC7226043 DOI: 10.3390/cells9041002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexual reproduction requires the fertilization of a female gamete after it has undergone optimal development. Various aspects of oocyte development and many molecular actors in this process are shared among mammals, but phylogeny and experimental data reveal species specificities. In this chapter, we will present these common and distinctive features with a focus on three points: the shaping of the oocyte transcriptome from evolutionarily conserved and rapidly evolving genes, the control of folliculogenesis and ovulation rate by oocyte-secreted Growth and Differentiation Factor 9 and Bone Morphogenetic Protein 15, and the importance of lipid metabolism.
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12
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Rossetti R, Ferrari I, Bestetti I, Moleri S, Brancati F, Petrone L, Finelli P, Persani L. Fundamental role of BMP15 in human ovarian folliculogenesis revealed by null and missense mutations associated with primary ovarian insufficiency. Hum Mutat 2020; 41:983-997. [DOI: 10.1002/humu.23988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Rossetti
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases and Lab of Endocrine and Metabolic ResearchIRCCS Istituto Auxologico ItalianoMilan Italy
| | - Ilaria Ferrari
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases and Lab of Endocrine and Metabolic ResearchIRCCS Istituto Auxologico ItalianoMilan Italy
| | - Ilaria Bestetti
- Lab of Medical Cytogenetics and Molecular GeneticsIstituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCSMilan Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanMilan Italy
| | - Silvia Moleri
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases and Lab of Endocrine and Metabolic ResearchIRCCS Istituto Auxologico ItalianoMilan Italy
| | - Francesco Brancati
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental SciencesUniversity of L'AquilaL'Aquila Italy
- Laboratory of Molecular and Cell BiologyIstituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata (IDI) IRCCSRome Italy
| | - Luisa Petrone
- Dipartimento Medico‐Geriatico, EndocrinologiaAzienda ospedaliero‐Universitaria CareggiFirenze Italy
| | - Palma Finelli
- Lab of Medical Cytogenetics and Molecular GeneticsIstituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCSMilan Italy
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational MedicineUniversity of MilanMilan Italy
| | - Luca Persani
- Department of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases and Lab of Endocrine and Metabolic ResearchIRCCS Istituto Auxologico ItalianoMilan Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community HealthUniversity of MilanMilan Italy
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13
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Wisotzkey RG, Newfeld SJ. TGF-β Prodomain Alignments Reveal Unexpected Cysteine Conservation Consistent with Phylogenetic Predictions of Cross-Subfamily Heterodimerization. Genetics 2020; 214:447-465. [PMID: 31843757 PMCID: PMC7017013 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.119.302255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Evolutionary relationships between prodomains in the TGF-β family have gone unanalyzed due to a perceived lack of conservation. We developed a novel approach, identified these relationships, and suggest hypotheses for new regulatory mechanisms in TGF-β signaling. First, a quantitative analysis placed each family member from flies, mice, and nematodes into the Activin, BMP, or TGF-β subfamily. Second, we defined the prodomain and ligand via the consensus cleavage site. Third, we generated alignments and trees from the prodomain, ligand, and full-length sequences independently for each subfamily. Prodomain alignments revealed that six structural features of 17 are well conserved: three in the straitjacket and three in the arm. Alignments also revealed unexpected cysteine conservation in the "LTBP-Association region" upstream of the straitjacket and in β8 of the bowtie in 14 proteins from all three subfamilies. In prodomain trees, eight clusters across all three subfamilies were present that were not seen in the ligand or full-length trees, suggesting prodomain-mediated cross-subfamily heterodimerization. Consistency between cysteine conservation and prodomain clustering provides support for heterodimerization predictions. Overall, our analysis suggests that cross-subfamily interactions are more common than currently appreciated and our predictions generate numerous testable hypotheses about TGF-β function and evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stuart J Newfeld
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287-4501
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14
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Hobeika E, Armouti M, Fierro MA, Winston N, Scoccia H, Zamah AM, Stocco C. Regulation of Insulin-Like Growth Factor 2 by Oocyte-Secreted Factors in Primary Human Granulosa Cells. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5582040. [PMID: 31588501 PMCID: PMC6938692 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgz057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 09/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Human granulosa cells (hGCs) produce and respond to insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) but whether the oocyte participates in IGF2 regulation in humans is unknown. OBJECTIVE To determine the role of oocyte-secreted factors (OSFs) such as growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) in IGF2 production by hGCs. DESIGN Primary human cumulus GCs in culture. SETTING University infertility center. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS GCs of women undergoing in vitro fertilization. INTERVENTION(S) Cells treated with GDF9 and BMP15 in the presence of vehicle, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), dibutyryl cyclic-AMP (dbcAMP), or mothers against decapentaplegic homolog (SMAD) inhibitors. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Quantification of mRNA, protein, promoter activity, and DNA methylation. RESULTS FSH stimulation of IGF2 (protein and mRNA) was significantly potentiated by the GDF9 and BMP15 (G+B) combination (P < 0.0001) in a concentration-dependent manner showing a maximal effect at 5 ng/mL each. However, GDF9 or BMP15 alone or in combination (G+B) have no effect on IGF2 in the absence of FSH. FSH stimulated IGF2 promoter 3 activity, but G+B had no effect on promoter activity. G+B potentiated IGF2 stimulation by cAMP. SMAD3 inhibitors inhibited G+B enhancement of IGF2 stimulation by FSH (P < 0.05) but had no effect on FSH induction. Moreover, inhibition of insulin-like growth factor receptor partially blocked G+B potentiation of FSH actions (P < 0.009). CONCLUSIONS For the first time, we show that the oocyte actively participates in the regulation of IGF2 expression in hGCs, an effect that is mediated by the specific combination of G+B via SMAD2/3, which in turn target mechanisms downstream of the FSH receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elie Hobeika
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Marah Armouti
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Michele A Fierro
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Nichola Winston
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Humberto Scoccia
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Alberuni M Zamah
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Carlos Stocco
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
- Correspondence: Carlos Stocco, 835 S Wolcott Ave, Chicago, Illinois, 60612. E-mail:
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15
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Alam MH, Miyano T. Interaction between growing oocytes and granulosa cells in vitro. Reprod Med Biol 2020; 19:13-23. [PMID: 31956281 PMCID: PMC6955591 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oocyte growth is accompanied by follicular development in mammalian ovaries. Since the discovery of two oocyte-derived factors, growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9), and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15), knowledge of the bidirectional communication between oocytes and granulosa cells for ovarian function and fertility has been accumulated. In addition, the growth culture system of oocytes has been improved, further promoting the studies on the communication between oocytes and granulosa cells in vitro. METHODS We provide an overview of the role of granulosa cells in oocyte growth and the role of oocytes in follicular development along with our recent findings in culture experiments of bovine growing oocytes. MAIN FINDINGS Granulosa cells supply nutrients and metabolites through gap junctions to oocytes and secrete paracrine signals to regulate oocytes. Oocytes regulate granulosa cell proliferation and differentiation and induce antrum formation via GDF9 and BMP15. CONCLUSION Oocytes actively participate in various aspects of follicular development, including antrum formation via the oocyte-derived factors GDF9 and BMP15, whose synthesis is probably regulated by granulosa cells. In vitro studies will reveal the precise communication loop between oocytes and granulosa cells that facilitates the coordinated development of oocytes and granulosa cells in the follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Hasanur Alam
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Animal HusbandryBangladesh Agricultural UniversityMymensinghBangladesh
- Graduate School of Agricultural ScienceKobe UniversityKobeJapan
| | - Takashi Miyano
- Graduate School of Agricultural ScienceKobe UniversityKobeJapan
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16
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Richani D, Constance K, Lien S, Agapiou D, Stocker WA, Hedger MP, Ledger WL, Thompson JG, Robertson DM, Mottershead DG, Walton KL, Harrison CA, Gilchrist RB. Cumulin and FSH Cooperate to Regulate Inhibin B and Activin B Production by Human Granulosa-Lutein Cells In Vitro. Endocrinology 2019; 160:853-862. [PMID: 30753406 DOI: 10.1210/en.2018-01026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The oocyte-secreted factors bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) and growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) interact functionally, and it is hypothesized that this interaction may be mediated by formation of a GDF9:BMP15 heterodimer termed cumulin. GDF9 and BMP15 regulate folliculogenesis and ovulation rate and have been shown to regulate inhibin and activin, local regulators of folliculogenesis. The objective of this study was to determine whether cumulin regulates granulosa cell inhibin and activin production and whether this requires cooperation with FSH. Human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells collected from patients undergoing in vitro fertilization were cultured with or without FSH with various forms of recombinant cumulin (native and cysteine mutants, with or without the prodomains), and cysteine mutant GDF9 or BMP15. Messenger RNA expression of the subunits of inhibins/activins (INHA, INHBA, INHBB) and secretion of inhibin A, inhibin B, and activin B were measured. Mature forms and proforms of cumulin stimulated comparable INHBB mRNA expression and secretion of inhibin B and activin B, whereas GDF9 or BMP15 exhibited no effect. Cumulin, but not GDF9 or BMP15, interacted synergistically with FSH to increase INHBB mRNA and inhibin B expression. FSH markedly stimulated INHA, which encodes the α subunit of inhibin A/B, and suppressed activin B. Cumulin with or without FSH did not significantly alter inhibin A. Together these data demonstrate that cumulin, but not GDF9 or BMP15, exerts paracrine control of FSH-induced regulation of inhibin B and activin B. The prodomains of cumulin may have a minimal role in its actions on granulosa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dulama Richani
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Katherine Constance
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Shelly Lien
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David Agapiou
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - William A Stocker
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - William L Ledger
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jeremy G Thompson
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - David M Robertson
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David G Mottershead
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Institute for Science and Technology in Medicine, School of Pharmacy, Keele University, Newcastle-under-Lyme, United Kingdom
| | - Kelly L Walton
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Craig A Harrison
- Department of Physiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robert B Gilchrist
- Fertility & Research Centre, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
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17
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Jazwiec PA, Li X, Matushewski B, Richardson BS, Sloboda DM. Fetal Growth Restriction Is Associated With Decreased Number of Ovarian Follicles and Impaired Follicle Growth in Young Adult Guinea Pig Offspring. Reprod Sci 2019; 26:1557-1567. [PMID: 30744513 DOI: 10.1177/1933719119828041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mechanisms mediating the impacts of fetal growth restriction (FGR) on follicular development are commonly studied in mouse/rat models, where ovarian development occurs largely during the early postnatal period. These models have shown that FGR is associated with premature follicle loss, early pubertal onset, and accelerated ovarian aging. Whether the same occurs in precocious species is unknown. OBJECTIVE Since guinea pig follicle development occurs in utero in a manner consistent with human ovarian development, we sought to determine whether FGR had similar impacts on guinea pig ovarian development. METHODS Dunkin-Hartley guinea pig dams were randomized to receive a control (CON) or a nutrient-restricted diet (FGR) prior to conception until weaning. Offspring ovaries were collected at prepubertal (postnatal day [P] 25) and young adult (P110) time points. RESULTS Prepubertal offspring exposed to FGR showed little differences in ovarian transcript levels and follicle counts. Young adult FGR offspring, however, showed reductions in the number of transitioning, primary, and antral follicles, as well as corpora lutea. This loss in follicles was associated with reduced insulin-like growth factor receptor and growth differentiation factor-9 messenger RNA levels in FGR P110 offspring compared to CON. CONCLUSION We demonstrate that FGR in guinea pigs is accompanied by perturbations in signaling pathways essential for proper follicle growth and manifests as reductions in growing follicles in offspring, but these changes do not manifest until postpuberty. These data support the fact that accelerated reproductive maturation/aging is a conserved phenotype that is associated with in utero nutritional adversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrycja A Jazwiec
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Xinglin Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Brad Matushewski
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bryan S Richardson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Children's Health Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Deborah M Sloboda
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
- Departments of Pediatrics and Obstetrics and Gynecology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
- Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
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18
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Garcia P, Aspee K, Ramirez G, Dettleff P, Palomino J, Peralta OA, Parraguez VH, De Los Reyes M. Influence of growth differentiation factor 9 and bone morphogenetic protein 15 on in vitro maturation of canine oocytes. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 54:373-380. [PMID: 30388311 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF-9) and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP-15) have pivotal roles in oocyte development in many species, therefore the aim was to investigate these factors during in vitro maturation (IVM) of canine oocytes. Canine cumulus oocytes complexes (COCs) were cultured in six groups for 72 hr in a supplemented TCM199-Hepes medium as (a) Control group; (b) GDF-9 antibody (Ab); (c) BMP-15 Ab; (d) recombinant human (rh) GDF-9; (e) rh BMP-15 or (f) rh BMP-15 and GDF-9. Data were evaluated by ANOVA. The Abs against GDF-9 or BMP-15 had a negative impact on meiotic development. Higher (p < 0.05) number of oocytes was arrested at GVBD stage when they were incubated with either GDF-9 Ab (64.4 ± 2.1%) or BMP-15 Ab (67.2%± 4.9%) in comparison to those in control group (32.4 ± 7.8%). In contrast, more (p < 0.05) oocytes in control group reached MI (37.4 ± 1.3%) and MII stages (10.2 ± 2.1%) comparing to those groups with GDF-9 Ab (23.1 ± 4.7% MI; 0.0% MII) or BMP-15 Ab (16.4 ± 2.4%MI; 5.9% ± 2.1 MII). Higher rates (p < 0.05) of oocytes in control group stayed still arrested at GV (19.9 ± 8.6%) in comparison to those cultured with either rhGDF-9 (3.7 ± 0.4%) or rhBMP-15 (10.9 ± 0.7%). However, there were no differences in MII rates between oocytes cultured with GDF-9 (14.7 ± 3.1) and BMP-15 (7.8 ± 2.5) separately. But, more oocytes (p < 0.05) reached the MII stage (20.5 ± 3.8%) compared to those exposed to each protein separately and to the control group. These results suggest that these proteins likely contribute to the meiotic development in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Garcia
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Karla Aspee
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Georges Ramirez
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Phillip Dettleff
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Jaime Palomino
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Oscar A Peralta
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Víctor H Parraguez
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Monica De Los Reyes
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
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19
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Zhang X, Ji M, Tan X, Yu K, Liu X, Li N, Yu Z. Impairment of ovaries by 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorobenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) exposure in utero associated with BMP15 and GDF9 in the female offspring rat. Toxicology 2018; 410:16-25. [PMID: 30172648 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2018.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2018] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorobenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) exposure in utero had been shown to affect ovarian development and functions. However, its mechanism remained unknown. In this study, to investigate the effect of maternal exposure to TCDD on ovaries, the pregnant Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were treated with TCDD (100 ng/kg or 500 ng/kg) or only vehicle and corn oil on the day 8-14 of gestation through the gavage with a stainless-steel feeding needle (once a day). The vaginal opening and estrous cycle of female offspring rats (F1) were monitored twice a day. The ovarian histology, follicle counts, real-time PCR, western blotting and DNA methylation analysis about Gdf9 and Bmp15 were carried out in F1 rats. The results showed that exposure to TCDD (especially the dose of 500 ng/kg) in utero on GD8-14 might change the ovary weight, the concentration of E2 and FSH, the estrous cycles and the numbers of primordial and secondary follicles of the offspring rats. In addition, the mRNA and protein expression of GDF9 and BMP15 was down-regulated, while the methylation patterns of Gdf9 and Bmp15 were not affected. In conclusion, maternal exposure to TCDD could affect the ovary development and functions which were possibly associated with down-regulation of mRNA and protein expression of GDF9 and BMP15. However, the down-regulation was not related to the pattern of methylation of Gdf9 and Bmp15.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuli Zhang
- Public Health College of Zhengzhou University, No. 100 of Science Road, Zhengzhou, 450001, China; The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No. 1 of Jianshe East Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Mengmeng Ji
- Public Health College of Zhengzhou University, No. 100 of Science Road, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Xuemei Tan
- Public Health College of Zhengzhou University, No. 100 of Science Road, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Kailun Yu
- Public Health College of Zhengzhou University, No. 100 of Science Road, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Xiaozhuan Liu
- Henan Provincial Peoples Hospital, No. 7 of Weiwu Road, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Ning Li
- Henan Agricultural University, No. 63 of Agricultural Road, Zhengzhou, 450002, China
| | - Zengli Yu
- Public Health College of Zhengzhou University, No. 100 of Science Road, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.
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20
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GDF-9 and BMP-15 direct the follicle symphony. J Assist Reprod Genet 2018; 35:1741-1750. [PMID: 30039232 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-018-1268-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the physiology underlying the complex dialog between the oocyte and its surrounding somatic cells within the ovarian follicle has been crucial in defining optimal procedures for the development of clinical approaches in ART for women suffering from infertility and ovarian dysfunction. Recent studies have implicated oocyte-secreted factors like growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF-9) and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP-15), members of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) superfamily, as potent regulators of folliculogenesis and ovulation. These two factors act as biologically active heterodimers or as homodimers in a synergistic cooperation. Through autocrine and paracrine mechanisms, the GDF-9 and BMP-15 system has been shown to regulate growth, differentiation, and function of granulosa and thecal cells during follicular development playing a vital role in oocyte development, ovulation, fertilization, and embryonic competence. The present mini-review provides an overview of recent findings relating GDF-9 and BMP-15 as fundamental factors implicated in the regulation of ovarian function and discusses their potential role as markers of oocyte quality in women.
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21
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Genome-wide analysis of circular RNAs in bovine cumulus cells treated with BMP15 and GDF9. Sci Rep 2018; 8:7944. [PMID: 29786687 PMCID: PMC5962577 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-26157-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are important members of the non-coding RNA family, and those relating to animal physiologies have been widely studied in recent years. This study aimed to explore the roles of circRNAs in the regulation of follicular development. We constructed four bovine cumulus cell cDNA libraries, including a negative control group (NC) and groups treated with BMP15, GDF9 and BMP15 + GDF9, and we sequenced the libraries on the Illumina HiSeq Xten platform. We identified 1706 circRNAs and screened for differential circRNA expression. We conducted a bioinformatics analysis of these circRNAs and screened for differential circRNAs. Functional annotation and enrichment analysis of the host genes showed that the differential circRNAs were related to locomotion, reproduction, biological adhesion, growth, rhythmic processes, biological phases and hormone secretion. According to the differential expression of circRNA between groups, there were 3 up-regulated and 6 down-regulated circRNAs in the BMP15 group as well as 12 up-regulated and 24 down-regulated circRNAs in the GDF9 group. Co-addition of both BMP15 and GDF9 resulted in 15 up-regulated and 13 down-regulated circRNAs. circ_n/a_75,circ_12691_1 and circ_n/a_303 were altered in both the BMP15 and GDF9 groups as well as in the BMP15 + GDF9 combination group. We focused on these three circRNAs because they were potentially associated with the additive effect of BMP15 and GDF9. Quantitative PCR analysis showed that the expression levels of these three circRNAs were consistent with the sequencing results. In addition, the target miRNAs of circ_n/a_75 and circ_n/a_303, miR-339a, miR-2400 and miR-30c, were down-regulated in the experimental group, which was in contrast to the circRNAs trend. These findings demonstrated that BMP15 and GDF9 may regulate the target gene through circRNA, as a miRNA sponge, in order to regulate the status of bovine cumulus cells and affect follicular development.
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Juengel JL. How the quest to improve sheep reproduction provided insight into oocyte control of follicular development. J R Soc N Z 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/03036758.2017.1421238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L. Juengel
- Reproduction, Animal Science, AgResearch Ltd, Invermay Agricultural Centre, Mosgiel, New Zealand
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Belli M, Shimasaki S. Molecular Aspects and Clinical Relevance of GDF9 and BMP15 in Ovarian Function. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2018; 107:317-348. [PMID: 29544636 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2017.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Growth and differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) are oocyte-secreted factors with a leading role in the control of ovarian function in female reproduction, modulating both the cell fate of the somatic granulosa cells and the quality and developmental competence of the egg. This short review aims to consolidate the molecular aspects of GDF9 and BMP15 and their integral actions in female fertility to understand particularly their effects on oocyte quality and fetal growth. The significant consequences of mutations in the GDF9 and BMP15 genes in women with dizygotic twins as well as the clinical relevance of these oocyte factors in the pathogenesis of primary ovarian insufficiency and polycystic ovary syndrome are also addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Belli
- University of California San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Shunichi Shimasaki
- University of California San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, United States.
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Pankhurst MW, Shorakae S, Rodgers RJ, Teede HJ, Moran LJ. Efficacy of predictive models for polycystic ovary syndrome using serum levels of two antimüllerian hormone isoforms (proAMH and AMHN,C). Fertil Steril 2017; 108:851-857.e2. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2017] [Revised: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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25
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Subcellular localization and characterization of estrogenic pathway regulators and mediators in Atlantic salmon spermatozoal cells. Histochem Cell Biol 2017; 149:75-96. [DOI: 10.1007/s00418-017-1611-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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26
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Heath DA, Pitman JL, McNatty KP. Molecular forms of ruminant BMP15 and GDF9 and putative interactions with receptors. Reproduction 2017; 154:521-534. [PMID: 28733348 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Revised: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic factor 15 (BMP15) and growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) are oocyte-secreted factors with demonstrable effects on ovarian follicular development and ovulation rate. However, the molecular forms of BMP15 and GDF9 produced by oocytes remain unclear. The aims herein, using Western blotting (WB) procedures with specific monoclonal antibodies (mabs), were to identify the molecular forms of BMP15 and GDF9 synthesised and secreted by isolated ovine (o) and bovine (b) oocytes in vitro The mabs were known to recognise the biological forms of BMP15 or GDF9 since they had previously been shown to inhibit their bioactivities in vitro and in vivo Using recombinant variants of oBMP15 and oGDF9, including a cysteine mutant form of oBMP15 (S356C) and a human (h) BMP15:GDF9 heterodimer (cumulin), it was established that the mabs were able to identify monomeric, dimeric, promature and higher-molecular-weight forms of BMP15 and GDF9 and cumulin (GDF9 mab only). After using non-reducing, reducing and reducing + cross-linking conditions, the major oocyte-secreted forms of o and b BMP15 and GDF9 were the cleaved and uncleaved monomeric forms of the promature proteins. There was no evidence for dimeric or heterodimeric forms of either mature BMP15 or GDF9. From in silico modelling studies using transforming growth factor beta (TGFB), activin or BMP crystal templates, and both present and previously published data, a model is proposed to illustrate how the monomeric forms of BMP15 and GDF9 may interact with their type II and type I cell-surface receptors to initiate the synergistic actions of these growth factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek A Heath
- School of Biological SciencesVictoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Janet L Pitman
- School of Biological SciencesVictoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
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Reader KL, Mottershead DG, Martin GA, Gilchrist RB, Heath DA, McNatty KP, Juengel JL. Signalling pathways involved in the synergistic effects of human growth differentiation factor 9 and bone morphogenetic protein 15. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 28:491-8. [PMID: 25155366 DOI: 10.1071/rd14099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2014] [Accepted: 07/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) act synergistically to regulate granulosa cell proliferation and steroid production in several species. Several non-Sma and mothers against decapentaplegic (SMAD) signalling pathways are involved in the action of murine and ovine GDF9 and BMP15 in combination, with the pathways utilised differing between the two species. The aims of this research were to determine if human GDF9 and BMP15 also act in a synergistic manner to stimulate granulosa cell proliferation and to identify which non-SMAD signalling pathways are activated. Human GDF9 with BMP15 (GDF9+BMP15) stimulated an increase in (3)H-thymidine incorporation (P<0.001), which was greater than the increase with BMP15 alone, while GDF9 alone had no effect. The stimulation of (3)H-thymidine incorporation by GDF9+BMP15 was reduced by the addition of inhibitors to the SMAD2/3, nuclear factor-KB (NF-KB) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signalling pathways. Inhibitors to the SMAD1/5/8, extracellular signal-regulated kinase mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK-MAPK) or p38-MAPK pathways had no effect. The addition of the BMP receptor 2 (BMPR2) extracellular domain also inhibited stimulation of (3)H-thymidine incorporation by GDF9+BMP15. In conclusion, human GDF9 and BMP15 act synergistically to stimulate granulosa cell proliferation, a response that also involves species-specific non-SMAD signalling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen L Reader
- AgResearch, Animal Productivity, Invermay Agricultural Centre, Private Bag 50034, Mosgiel 9053, New Zealand
| | - David G Mottershead
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, University of Adelaide, GPO Box 498, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Georgia A Martin
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, University of Adelaide, GPO Box 498, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Robert B Gilchrist
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, University of Adelaide, GPO Box 498, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Derek A Heath
- Victoria University of Wellington, School of Biological Sciences, PO Box 600, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Kenneth P McNatty
- Victoria University of Wellington, School of Biological Sciences, PO Box 600, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Jennifer L Juengel
- AgResearch, Animal Productivity, Invermay Agricultural Centre, Private Bag 50034, Mosgiel 9053, New Zealand
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Estienne A, Lahoz B, Jarrier P, Bodin L, Folch J, Alabart JL, Fabre S, Monniaux D. BMP15 regulates the inhibin/activin system independently of ovulation rate control in sheep. Reproduction 2017; 153:395-404. [PMID: 28069901 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2016] [Revised: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Polymorphisms in the gene encoding bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) have been associated with multiple ovulations in sheep. As BMP15 regulates inhibin expression in rodents, we assumed that the ovarian inhibin/activin system could mediate part of the effect of BMP15 mutations in the regulation of ovulation rate in sheep. To answer this question, we have studied the effects of two natural loss-of-function mutations of BMP15 on the expression of components of this system. The FecXR and the FecXGr mutations, when present respectively in Rasa Aragonesa ewes at the heterozygous state and in Grivette ewes at the homozygous state, were associated with a twofold increase in ovulation rate. There were only small differences between mutant and wild-type ewes for mRNA expression of INHA, INHBA, ACVR1B, ACVR2A, FST or TGFBR3 in granulosa cells and inhibin A or activin A concentrations in follicular fluid. Moreover, the effects of mutations differed between breeds. In cultures of granulosa cells from wild-type ewes, BMP15, acting alone or in synergy with GDF9, stimulated INHA, INHBA and FST expression, but inhibited the expression of TGFBR3 Activin A did not affect INHBA expression, but inhibited the expression of ACVR2A also. The complexity of the inhibin/activin system, including positive and antagonistic elements, and the differential regulation of these elements by BMP15 and activin can explain that the effects of BMP15 mutations differ when present in different genetic backgrounds. In conclusion, the ovarian inhibin/activin system is unlikely to participate in the increase of ovulation rate associated with BMP15 mutations in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Estienne
- UMR85 PRC, INRA, CNRS, IFCEUniversité de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Belén Lahoz
- Unidad de Producción y Sanidad AnimalCentro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria de Aragón (CITA), Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), Zaragoza, España
| | - Peggy Jarrier
- UMR85 PRC, INRA, CNRS, IFCEUniversité de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Loys Bodin
- GenPhySEUniversité de Toulouse, INRA, INPT, ENVT, Castanet Tolosan, France
| | - José Folch
- Unidad de Producción y Sanidad AnimalCentro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria de Aragón (CITA), Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), Zaragoza, España
| | - José-Luis Alabart
- Unidad de Producción y Sanidad AnimalCentro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria de Aragón (CITA), Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), Zaragoza, España
| | - Stéphane Fabre
- GenPhySEUniversité de Toulouse, INRA, INPT, ENVT, Castanet Tolosan, France
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Chang HM, Qiao J, Leung PCK. Oocyte-somatic cell interactions in the human ovary-novel role of bone morphogenetic proteins and growth differentiation factors. Hum Reprod Update 2016; 23:1-18. [PMID: 27797914 PMCID: PMC5155571 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmw039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Revised: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Initially identified for their capability to induce heterotopic bone formation,
bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are multifunctional growth factors that belong
to the transforming growth factor β superfamily. Using cellular and
molecular genetic approaches, recent studies have implicated intra-ovarian BMPs as
potent regulators of ovarian follicular function. The bi-directional communication
of oocytes and the surrounding somatic cells is mandatory for normal follicle
development and oocyte maturation. This review summarizes the current knowledge on
the physiological role and molecular determinants of these ovarian regulatory
factors within the human germline-somatic regulatory loop. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The regulation of ovarian function remains poorly characterized in humans because,
while the fundamental process of follicular development and oocyte maturation is
highly similar across species, most information on the regulation of ovarian
function is obtained from studies using rodent models. Thus, this review focuses
on the studies that used human biological materials to gain knowledge about human
ovarian biology and disorders and to develop strategies for preventing, diagnosing
and treating these abnormalities. SEARCH METHODS Relevant English-language publications describing the roles of BMPs or growth
differentiation factors (GDFs) in human ovarian biology and phenotypes were
comprehensively searched using PubMed and the Google Scholar database. The
publications included those published since the initial identification of BMPs in
the mammalian ovary in 1999 through July 2016. OUTCOMES Studies using human biological materials have revealed the expression of BMPs,
GDFs and their putative receptors as well as their molecular signaling in the
fundamental cells (oocyte, cumulus/granulosa cells (GCs) and theca/stroma cells)
of the ovarian follicles throughout follicle development. With the availability of
recombinant human BMPs/GDFs and the development of immortalized human cell lines,
functional studies have demonstrated the physiological role of intra-ovarian
BMPs/GDFs in all aspects of ovarian functions, from follicle development to
steroidogenesis, cell–cell communication, oocyte maturation, ovulation and
luteal function. Furthermore, there is crosstalk between these potent ovarian
regulators and the endocrine signaling system. Dysregulation or naturally
occurring mutations within the BMP system may lead to several female reproductive
diseases. The latest development of recombinant BMPs, synthetic BMP inhibitors,
gene therapy and tools for BMP-ligand sequestration has made the BMP pathway a
potential therapeutic target in certain human fertility disorders; however,
further clinical trials are needed. Recent studies have indicated that GDF8 is an
intra-ovarian factor that may play a novel role in regulating ovarian functions in
the human ovary. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Intra-ovarian BMPs/GDFs are critical regulators of folliculogenesis and human
ovarian functions. Any dysregulation or variations in these ligands or their
receptors may affect the related intracellular signaling and influence ovarian
functions, which accounts for several reproductive pathologies and infertility.
Understanding the normal and pathological roles of intra-ovarian BMPs/GDFs,
especially as related to GC functions and follicular fluid levels, will inform
innovative approaches to fertility regulation and improve the diagnosis and
treatment of ovarian disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, 49 North Garden Rd., Haidian District, Beijing 100191, P.R. China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 West 28 Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V5Z 4H4
| | - Jie Qiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, 49 North Garden Rd., Haidian District, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 West 28 Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V5Z 4H4
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Stephens CS, Johnson PA. Bone morphogenetic protein 15 may promote follicle selection in the hen. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2016; 235:170-176. [PMID: 27340039 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2016.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Revised: 06/17/2016] [Accepted: 06/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
In the hen, optimal ovulation rate depends on selection of a single follicle into the pre-ovulatory hierarchy. Follicle selection is associated with increased oocyte growth and changes in gene expression in granulosa cells surrounding the oocyte, in preparation for ovulation. This study investigated the expression, function and regulation of bone morphogenetic protein-15 (BMP15) during follicle development in the hen. BMP15 mRNA expression was analyzed in the ooplasm and granulosa cells of 3mm follicles and was confirmed to be primarily in the ooplasm. BMP15 was detected by immunoblotting in 6 and 8mm follicles near the time of follicle selection. Expression of mRNA for BMP15 receptors (BMPR1B and BMPR2) in granulosa cells increased with follicle size, indicating that BMP15 may play an important role around follicle selection. The function of BMP15 was examined by culturing granulosa cells from 3-5mm and 6-8mm follicles with recombinant human BMP15 (rhBMP15). BMP15 increased expression of follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) mRNA and decreased anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) mRNA and occludin (OCLN), factors associated with follicle maturation and growth in the hen. Hormonal regulation of BMP15 was assessed by whole follicle culture with estradiol (E2) which increased BMP15 mRNA expression. The distinct expression pattern of BMP15 and its receptors, coupled with the effects of BMP15 to increase FSHR mRNA and decrease AMH mRNA and OCLN mRNA and protein expression suggest that the oocyte may have a role in follicle selection in the chicken.
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Affiliation(s)
- C S Stephens
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
| | - P A Johnson
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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31
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Mehdizadeh A, Sheikhha MH, Kalantar SM, Aali BS, Ghanei A. Mutation analysis of exon1 of bone morphogenetic protein-15 gene in Iranian patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Int J Reprod Biomed 2016. [DOI: 10.29252/ijrm.14.8.527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
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Bidirectional communication between cumulus cells and the oocyte: Old hands and new players? Theriogenology 2016; 86:62-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Revised: 01/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Monniaux D. Driving folliculogenesis by the oocyte-somatic cell dialog: Lessons from genetic models. Theriogenology 2016; 86:41-53. [PMID: 27155734 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2015] [Revised: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This review focuses on the role of the dialog between the oocyte and its companion somatic cells in driving folliculogenesis from the primordial to the preovulatory follicle stage. Mouse and sheep genetic models have brought complementary evidence of these cell interactions and their consequences for ovarian function. In mouse, the deletion of genes encoding connexins has shown that functional gap junction channels between oocytes and granulosa cells and between granulosa cells themselves maintain the follicle in a functionally integrated state. Targeted deletions in oocytes or granulosa cells have revealed the cell- and stage-specific role of ubiquist factors belonging to the phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase signaling pathway in primordial follicle activation, oocyte growth and follicle survival. Various models of transgenic mice and sheep carrying natural loss-of-function mutations associated with sterility have established that the oocyte-derived factors, bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) 15 and growth differentiation factor 9 orchestrate follicle development, support cumulus metabolism and maturation and participate in oocyte meiosis arrest. Unexpectedly in sheep, mutations resulting in the attenuation of BMP signaling lead to enhanced ovulation rate, likely resulting from a lowered follicular atresia rate and the enhancement of FSH-regulated follicular maturation. Both the activation level of BMP signaling and an adequate equilibrium between BMP15 and growth differentiation factor 9 determine follicle survival, maturation, and development toward ovulation. The physiological approaches which were implemented on genetic animal models during the last 20 years have opened up new perspectives for female fertility by identifying the main signaling pathways of the oocyte-somatic cell dialog.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Monniaux
- INRA, UMR85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France; CNRS, UMR7247, Nouzilly, France; Université François Rabelais de Tours, Tours, France; IFCE, Nouzilly, France.
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Yadin D, Knaus P, Mueller TD. Structural insights into BMP receptors: Specificity, activation and inhibition. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2015; 27:13-34. [PMID: 26690041 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2015.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2015] [Accepted: 11/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are members of the transforming growth factor-β family (TGFβ), which signal through hetero-tetrameric complexes of type I and type II receptors. In humans there are many more TGFβ ligands than receptors, leading to the question of how particular ligands can initiate specific signaling responses. Here we review structural features of the ligands and receptors that contribute to this specificity. Ligand activity is determined by receptor-ligand interactions, growth factor prodomains, extracellular modulator proteins, receptor assembly and phosphorylation of intracellular signaling proteins, including Smad transcription factors. Detailed knowledge about the receptors has enabled the development of BMP-specific type I receptor kinase inhibitors. In future these may help to treat human diseases such as fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Yadin
- Institute for Chemistry and Biochemistry, Free University Berlin, Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, D-14195 Berlin, Germany; Berlin-Brandenburg School for Regenerative Therapies (BSRT), Charité Campus Virchow Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, D-13351 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Petra Knaus
- Institute for Chemistry and Biochemistry, Free University Berlin, Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, D-14195 Berlin, Germany; Berlin-Brandenburg School for Regenerative Therapies (BSRT), Charité Campus Virchow Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, D-13351 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Thomas D Mueller
- Molecular Plant Physiology and Biophysics, Julius-von-Sachs-Institute of the University Wuerzburg, Julius-von-Sachs-Platz 2, D-97082 Wuerzburg, Germany.
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35
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Mottershead DG, Sugimura S, Al-Musawi SL, Li JJ, Richani D, White MA, Martin GA, Trotta AP, Ritter LJ, Shi J, Mueller TD, Harrison CA, Gilchrist RB. Cumulin, an Oocyte-secreted Heterodimer of the Transforming Growth Factor-β Family, Is a Potent Activator of Granulosa Cells and Improves Oocyte Quality. J Biol Chem 2015; 290:24007-20. [PMID: 26254468 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.671487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) are oocyte-specific growth factors with central roles in mammalian reproduction, regulating species-specific fecundity, ovarian follicular somatic cell differentiation, and oocyte quality. In the human, GDF9 is produced in a latent form, the mechanism of activation being an open question. Here, we produced a range of recombinant GDF9 and BMP15 variants, examined their in silico and physical interactions and their effects on ovarian granulosa cells (GC) and oocytes. We found that the potent synergistic actions of GDF9 and BMP15 on GC can be attributed to the formation of a heterodimer, which we have termed cumulin. Structural modeling of cumulin revealed a dimerization interface identical to homodimeric GDF9 and BMP15, indicating likely formation of a stable complex. This was confirmed by generation of recombinant heterodimeric complexes of pro/mature domains (pro-cumulin) and covalent mature domains (cumulin). Both pro-cumulin and cumulin exhibited highly potent bioactivity on GC, activating both SMAD2/3 and SMAD1/5/8 signaling pathways and promoting proliferation and expression of a set of genes associated with oocyte-regulated GC differentiation. Cumulin was more potent than pro-cumulin, pro-GDF9, pro-BMP15, or the two combined on GC. However, on cumulus-oocyte complexes, pro-cumulin was more effective than all other growth factors at notably improving oocyte quality as assessed by subsequent day 7 embryo development. Our results support a model of activation for human GDF9 dependent on cumulin formation through heterodimerization with BMP15. Oocyte-secreted cumulin is likely to be a central regulator of fertility in mono-ovular mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- David G Mottershead
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and Mottasis Oy Ltd., 00430 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Satoshi Sugimura
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and the Institute of Agriculture, Department of Biological Production, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-0057, Japan
| | - Sara L Al-Musawi
- the Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Jing-Jie Li
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and the Center of Reproductive Medicine, the Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510655 Guangzhou, China
| | - Dulama Richani
- the Discipline of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, School of Women's & Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia, and
| | - Melissa A White
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and
| | - Georgia A Martin
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and
| | - Andrew P Trotta
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and
| | - Lesley J Ritter
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Nanoscale BioPhotonics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Junyan Shi
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and
| | - Thomas D Mueller
- the Department of Plant Physiology and Biophysics, Julius-von-Sachs Institute of the University Wuerzburg, D-97082 Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Craig A Harrison
- the Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Robert B Gilchrist
- From the Robinson Research Institute and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and the Discipline of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, School of Women's & Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia, and
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Mester B, Ritter LJ, Pitman JL, Bibby AH, Gilchrist RB, McNatty KP, Juengel JL, McIntosh CJ. Oocyte expression, secretion and somatic cell interaction of mouse bone morphogenetic protein 15 during the peri-ovulatory period. Reprod Fertil Dev 2015; 27:801-11. [DOI: 10.1071/rd13336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2013] [Accepted: 01/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) is a key intraovarian growth factor regulating mammalian fertility, yet expression and localisation of different BMP15 protein forms within ovarian follicles around the time of the preovulatory LH surge remains unclear. Using immunoblotting and immunocytochemistry, the present study identified that post-translationally processed BMP15 proregion and mature proteins are increasingly expressed and localised with cumulus and granulosa cells from mice treated with pregnant mare’s serum gonadotropin (PMSG) + human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG). However, this increased expression was absent in cumulus–oocyte complexes matured in vitro. Pull-down assays further revealed that the recombinant BMP15 proregion is capable of specific interaction with isolated granulosa cells. To verify an oocyte, and not somatic cell, origin of Bmp15 mRNA and coregulated growth differentiation factor 9 (Gdf9), in situ hybridisation and quantitative polymerase chain reaction results confirmed the exclusive oocyte localisation of Bmp15 and Gdf9, regardless of treatment or assay method. Relative oocyte expression levels of Bmp15 and Gdf9 decreased significantly after PMSG + hCG treatment; nevertheless, throughout all treatments, the Bmp15 : Gdf9 mRNA expression ratio remained unchanged. Together, these data provide evidence that the preovulatory LH surge leads to upregulation of several forms of BMP15 protein secreted by the oocyte for putative sequestration and/or interaction with ovarian follicular somatic cells.
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Grasa P, Ploutarchou P, Williams SA. Oocytes lacking O-glycans alter follicle development and increase fertility by increasing follicle FSH sensitivity, decreasing apoptosis, and modifying GDF9:BMP15 expression. FASEB J 2014; 29:525-39. [PMID: 25416550 DOI: 10.1096/fj.14-253757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The number of eggs ovulated varies within and between species and is influenced by many variables. However, the regulatory mechanisms remain poorly understood. We previously demonstrated a key role for the oocyte because mice generating oocytes deficient in core 1-derived O-glycans ovulate ∼40-50% more eggs than Controls. Here we analyze the basis of this phenotype using Mutant [core 1 β1,3-galactosyltransferase 1 (C1galt1)(FF):zona pellucida glycoprotein 3 Cre (ZP3Cre)] and Control (C1galt1(FF)) female mice. In culture, Mutant follicles exhibited delayed antrum formation [indicative of follicle stimulant hormone (FSH) dependence] and increased sensitivity to FSH. Although the Mutant estrous cycle was extended, comprehensive endocrine changes were not observed; rather FSH, LH, inhibin B, and anti-Mullerian hormone were temporally altered, revealing estrous cycle stage-specific modifications to the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. At proestrus, when FSH levels were decreased in Mutants, ovaries contained more, smaller, preantral follicles. Mutant follicles exhibited reduced levels of apoptosis, and both B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) and BCL-2-associated X protein (Bax) were altered compared with Controls. Mutant ovaries also had an increase in the expression ratio of growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9):bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) at diestrus. On the basis of these data, we propose that modified oocyte glycoproteins alter GDF9:BMP15 expression modifying follicle development resulting in the generation of more follicles. Thus, the oocyte is a key regulator of follicle development and has a crucial role in determining ovulation rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Grasa
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Panayiota Ploutarchou
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Suzannah A Williams
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Monestier O, Servin B, Auclair S, Bourquard T, Poupon A, Pascal G, Fabre S. Evolutionary origin of bone morphogenetic protein 15 and growth and differentiation factor 9 and differential selective pressure between mono- and polyovulating species. Biol Reprod 2014; 91:83. [PMID: 25100713 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.119735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) and growth and differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) are TGFbeta-like oocyte-derived growth factors involved in ovarian folliculogenesis as critical regulators of many granulosa cell processes and ovulation rate. Ovarian phenotypic effect caused by alterations in BMP15 and GDF9 genes appears to differ between species and may be relevant to their mono- or polyovulating status. Through phylogenetic analysis we recently showed that these two paralogous genes are strongly divergent and in rapid evolution as compared to other members of the TGFbeta superfamily. Here, we evaluate the amino acid substitution rates of a set of proteins implicated in the ovarian function, including BMP15 and GDF9, with special attention to the mono- or polyovulating status of the species. Among a panel of mono- and polyovulating mammals, we demonstrate a better conservation of some areas in BMP15 and GDF9 within mono-ovulating species. Homology modeling of BMP15 and GDF9 homodimer and heterodimer 3-D structures was suggestive that these areas may be involved in dimer formation and stability. A phylogenetic study of BMP15/GDF9-related proteins reveals that these two genes diverged from the same ancestral gene along with BMP3 and GDF10, two other paralogous genes. A substitution rate analysis based on this phylogenetic tree leads to the hypothesis of an acquisition of BMP15/GDF9-specific functions in ovarian folliculogenesis in mammals. We propose that high variations observed in specific areas of BMP15 and GDF9 in polyovulating species change the equilibrium between homodimers and heterodimers, modifying the biological activity and thus allowing polyovulation to occur.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Monestier
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 1388 Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes d'Elevage, Castanet-Tolosan, France Université de Toulouse, Institut National Polytechnique de Toulouse, École Nationale Supérieure Agronomique de Toulouse, Unité Mixte de Recherche 1388 Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes d'Elevage, Castanet-Tolosan, France Université de Toulouse, Institut National Polytechnique de Toulouse, École nationale vétérinaire de Toulouse, Unité Mixte de Recherche 1388 Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes d'Elevage, Toulouse, France
| | - Bertrand Servin
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 1388 Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes d'Elevage, Castanet-Tolosan, France Université de Toulouse, Institut National Polytechnique de Toulouse, École Nationale Supérieure Agronomique de Toulouse, Unité Mixte de Recherche 1388 Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes d'Elevage, Castanet-Tolosan, France Université de Toulouse, Institut National Polytechnique de Toulouse, École nationale vétérinaire de Toulouse, Unité Mixte de Recherche 1388 Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes d'Elevage, Toulouse, France
| | - Sylvain Auclair
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7247 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France Université François Rabelais de Tours, Tours, France Institut Français du Cheval et de l'Equitation, Nouzilly, France
| | - Thomas Bourquard
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7247 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France Université François Rabelais de Tours, Tours, France Institut Français du Cheval et de l'Equitation, Nouzilly, France
| | - Anne Poupon
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 85 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7247 Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France Université François Rabelais de Tours, Tours, France Institut Français du Cheval et de l'Equitation, Nouzilly, France
| | - Géraldine Pascal
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 1388 Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes d'Elevage, Castanet-Tolosan, France Université de Toulouse, Institut National Polytechnique de Toulouse, École Nationale Supérieure Agronomique de Toulouse, Unité Mixte de Recherche 1388 Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes d'Elevage, Castanet-Tolosan, France Université de Toulouse, Institut National Polytechnique de Toulouse, École nationale vétérinaire de Toulouse, Unité Mixte de Recherche 1388 Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes d'Elevage, Toulouse, France
| | - Stéphane Fabre
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 1388 Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes d'Elevage, Castanet-Tolosan, France Université de Toulouse, Institut National Polytechnique de Toulouse, École Nationale Supérieure Agronomique de Toulouse, Unité Mixte de Recherche 1388 Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes d'Elevage, Castanet-Tolosan, France Université de Toulouse, Institut National Polytechnique de Toulouse, École nationale vétérinaire de Toulouse, Unité Mixte de Recherche 1388 Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes d'Elevage, Toulouse, France
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Sudiman J, Sutton-McDowall ML, Ritter LJ, White MA, Mottershead DG, Thompson JG, Gilchrist RB. Bone morphogenetic protein 15 in the pro-mature complex form enhances bovine oocyte developmental competence. PLoS One 2014; 9:e103563. [PMID: 25058588 PMCID: PMC4110049 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0103563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2013] [Accepted: 07/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Developmental competence of in vitro matured (IVM) oocytes needs to be improved and this can potentially be achieved by adding recombinant bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) or growth differentiation factor (GDF9) to IVM. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a purified pro-mature complex form of recombinant human BMP15 versus the commercially available bioactive forms of BMP15 and GDF9 (both isolated mature regions) during IVM on bovine embryo development and metabolic activity. Bovine cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) were matured in vitro in control medium or treated with 100 ng/ml pro-mature BMP15, mature BMP15 or mature GDF9 +/− FSH. Metabolic measures of glucose uptake and lactate production from COCs and autofluorescence of NAD(P)H, FAD and GSH were measured in oocytes after IVM. Following in vitro fertilisation and embryo culture, day 8 blastocysts were stained for cell numbers. COCs matured in medium +/− FSH containing pro-mature BMP15 displayed significantly improved blastocyst development (57.7±3.9%, 43.5±4.2%) compared to controls (43.3±2.4%, 28.9±3.7%) and to mature GDF9+FSH (36.1±3.0%). The mature form of BMP15 produced intermediate levels of blastocyst development; not significantly different to control or pro-mature BMP15 levels. Pro-mature BMP15 increased intra-oocyte NAD(P)H, and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels were increased by both forms of BMP15 in the absence of FSH. Exogenous BMP15 in its pro-mature form during IVM provides a functional source of oocyte-secreted factors to improve bovine blastocyst development. This form of BMP15 may prove useful for improving cattle and human artificial reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaqueline Sudiman
- Robinson Research Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Melanie L. Sutton-McDowall
- Robinson Research Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Lesley J. Ritter
- Robinson Research Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Melissa A. White
- Robinson Research Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - David G. Mottershead
- Robinson Research Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jeremy G. Thompson
- Robinson Research Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Robert B. Gilchrist
- Robinson Research Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Discipline of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, School of Women's & Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- * E-mail:
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Persani L, Rossetti R, Di Pasquale E, Cacciatore C, Fabre S. The fundamental role of bone morphogenetic protein 15 in ovarian function and its involvement in female fertility disorders. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 20:869-83. [PMID: 24980253 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmu036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A large number of studies have contributed to understanding the general mechanisms driving ovarian folliculogenesis in humans and show a complex endocrine dialog between the central nervous system, the pituitary and the ovary, integrated by various intraovarian paracrine messages. The role of intraovarian paracrine regulation has acquired more relevance in the recent years owing to the discovery of previously unknown factors, such as the oocyte-derived bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)15. METHODS A thorough literature search was carried out in order to summarize what has been reported so far on the role of BMP15, and the BMP15 paralog, growth and differentiation factor 9 (GDF9), in ovarian function and female fertility. Research articles published in English until March 2014 were included. RESULTS The biological actions of BMP15 include: (i) the promotion of follicle growth and maturation starting from the primary gonadotrophin-independent phases of folliculogenesis; (ii) the regulation of follicular granulosa cell (GC) sensitivity to FSH action and the determination of ovulation quota; (iii) the prevention of GC apoptosis and (iv) the promotion of oocyte developmental competence. The existence of biologically active heterodimers with GDF9, and/or the synergistic co-operation of BMP15 and GDF9 homodimers are indeed relevant in this context. Experimental disruption of the bmp15 gene in mice resulted in a mild fertility defect limited to females, whereas natural missense mutations in ewes cause variable phenotypes (ranging from hyperprolificacy to complete sterility) depending on a fine gene dosage mechanism also involving GDF9. Strong evidence supports the concept that such a mechanism plays an important role in the regulation of ovulation rate across mammalian and non-mammalian species. Following the discovery of sheep fecundity genes, several research groups have focused on alterations in human BMP15 associated with primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) or polycystic ovary syndrome. Several variants of BMP15 are significantly associated with POI supporting their pathogenic role, but the underlying biological mechanism is still under investigation and of great interest in medicine. BMP15 maps to the Xp locus involved in the determination of the ovarian defect in Turner syndrome and significantly contributes to the determination of ovarian reserve. Pioneering studies in women undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation indicate that BMP15 may represent a marker of ovarian response or oocyte quality. CONCLUSIONS BMP15, an oocyte-derived growth and differentiation factor, is a critical regulator of folliculogenesis and GC activities. Variations in BMP15 gene dosage have a relevant influence on ovarian function and can account for several defects of female fertility. The modulation of BMP15 action may have interesting pharmacological perspectives and the analysis of BMP15 may become a useful marker in IVF procedures. Recent outcomes indicate that the close interactions of BMP15/GDF9 have a critical biological impact that should be taken into account in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Persani
- Department of Clinical Sciences & Community Health, University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy Laboratory of Endocrine & Metabolic Research and Division of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Piazzale Brescia 20, 20149 Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Rossetti
- Department of Clinical Sciences & Community Health, University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Di Pasquale
- Institute of Genetic and Biomedical Research - UOS of Milan, National Research Council (CNR) and Istituto Clinico Humanitas, Via Manzoni 59, Rozzano, 20089 Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Cacciatore
- Department of Clinical Sciences & Community Health, University of Milan, 20100 Milan, Italy Laboratory of Endocrine & Metabolic Research and Division of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Piazzale Brescia 20, 20149 Milan, Italy
| | - Stéphane Fabre
- INRA, Université de Toulouse INPT, UMR1388, Génétique, Physiologie et Systèmes D'Elevage, F-31326 Castanet-Tolosan, France
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Sudiman J, Ritter LJ, Feil DK, Wang X, Chan K, Mottershead DG, Robertson DM, Thompson JG, Gilchrist RB. Effects of differing oocyte-secreted factors during mouse in vitro maturation on subsequent embryo and fetal development. J Assist Reprod Genet 2014; 31:295-306. [PMID: 24408183 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-013-0152-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2013] [Accepted: 12/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We hypothesised that varying native oocyte-secreted factor (OSF) exposure or using different recombinant OSF peptides would have differential effects on post-in vitro maturation (IVM) embryo and fetal development. METHODS Mouse cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) were treated with the purified mature domain of GDF9 and/or BMP15 or were co-cultured with denuded oocytes (DOs) from 0 h or 3 h of IVM. DOs were matured for 3 h as either intact COCs+/-FSH before denuding, or as DOs + FSH. COCs were fertilised and blastocyst development was assessed on days 5 and 6, and either differentially stained for ICM numbers or vitrified/warmed embryos were transferred to recipients to assess implantation and fetal rates. RESULTS No improvement in embryo development was observed with the addition of GDF9 and/or BMP15 to IVM. In contrast, embryos derived from COCs co-cultured with DOs had significantly improved blastocyst rates and ICM numbers compared to controls (P < 0.05). The highest response was obtained when DOs were first added to COCs at 3 h of IVM, after being pre-treated (0-3 h) as COCs + FSH. Compared to control, co-culture with DOs from 3 h did not affect implantation rates but more than doubled fetal yield (21% vs 48%; P < 0.05). GDF9 Western blot analysis was unable to detect any differences in quantity or form of GDF9 (17 and 65 kDa) in extracts of DO at 0 h or 3 h. CONCLUSIONS This study provides new knowledge on means to improve oocyte quality in vitro which has the potential to significantly aid human infertility treatment and animal embryo production technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Sudiman
- Robinson Institute, Research Centre for Reproductive Health, and School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia
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Kristensen SG, Andersen K, Clement CA, Franks S, Hardy K, Andersen CY. Expression of TGF-beta superfamily growth factors, their receptors, the associated SMADs and antagonists in five isolated size-matched populations of pre-antral follicles from normal human ovaries. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 20:293-308. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gat089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
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Juengel JL, Davis GH, McNatty KP. Using sheep lines with mutations in single genes to better understand ovarian function. Reproduction 2013; 146:R111-23. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-12-0509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Livestock populations have been subjected to strong selection pressure to improve reproductive success, and this has led to the identification of lines of animals with increased fecundity. These animals provide a rich biological resource for discovery of genes and regulatory mechanisms that underpin improved reproductive success. To date, three genes, all related to the transforming growth factor β pathway, have been identified as having mutations that lead to alterations in ovulation in sheep. In addition, several other sheep lines have been identified with putative mutations in single genes with major effects on ovulation rate. This review is focused on the identification of the mutations affecting ovulation rate and how these discoveries have provided new insights into control of ovarian function.
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Fenwick MA, Mora JM, Mansour YT, Baithun C, Franks S, Hardy K. Investigations of TGF-β signaling in preantral follicles of female mice reveal differential roles for bone morphogenetic protein 15. Endocrinology 2013; 154:3423-36. [PMID: 23782946 DOI: 10.1210/en.2012-2251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) and growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) are 2 closely related TGF-β ligands implicated as key regulators of follicle development and fertility. Animals harboring mutations of these factors often exhibit a blockage in follicle development beyond the primary stage and therefore little is known about the role of these ligands during subsequent (preantral) stages. Preantral follicles isolated from immature mice were cultured with combinations of BMP15, GDF9, and activin receptor-like kinase (ALK) inhibitors. Individually, GDF9 and BMP15 promoted follicle growth during the first 24 hours, whereas BMP15 subsequently (48-72 h) caused follicle shrinkage and atresia with increased granulosa cell apoptosis. Inhibition of ALK6 prevented the BMP15-induced reduction in follicle size and under basal conditions promoted a rapid increase in granulosa cell proliferation, suggesting BMP15 signals through ALK6, which in turn acts to restrain follicle growth. In the presence of GDF9, BMP15 no longer promoted atresia and in fact follicle growth was increased significantly more than with either ligand alone. This cooperative effect was accompanied by differential expression of Id1-3, Smad6-7, and Has2 and was blocked by the same ALK5 inhibitor used to block GDF9 signaling. Immunostaining for SMAD2/3 and SMAD1/5/8, representing the 2 main branches of TGF-β signaling, supported the fact that both canonical pathways have the potential to be active in growing follicles, whereas primordial follicles only express SMAD2/3. Overall results highlight differential effects of the 2 main TGF-β signaling pathways during preantral follicle growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Fenwick
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, United Kingdom.
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Demars J, Fabre S, Sarry J, Rossetti R, Gilbert H, Persani L, Tosser-Klopp G, Mulsant P, Nowak Z, Drobik W, Martyniuk E, Bodin L. Genome-wide association studies identify two novel BMP15 mutations responsible for an atypical hyperprolificacy phenotype in sheep. PLoS Genet 2013; 9:e1003482. [PMID: 23637641 PMCID: PMC3636084 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1003482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2012] [Accepted: 03/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Some sheep breeds are naturally prolific, and they are very informative for the studies of reproductive genetics and physiology. Major genes increasing litter size (LS) and ovulation rate (OR) were suspected in the French Grivette and the Polish Olkuska sheep populations, respectively. To identify genetic variants responsible for the highly prolific phenotype in these two breeds, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) followed by complementary genetic and functional analyses were performed. Highly prolific ewes (cases) and normal prolific ewes (controls) from each breed were genotyped using the Illumina OvineSNP50 Genotyping Beadchip. In both populations, an X chromosome region, close to the BMP15 gene, harbored clusters of markers with suggestive evidence of association at significance levels between 1E(-05) and 1E(-07). The BMP15 candidate gene was then sequenced, and two novel non-conservative mutations called FecX(Gr) and FecX(O) were identified in the Grivette and Olkuska breeds, respectively. The two mutations were associated with the highly prolific phenotype (p FecX (Gr) = 5.98E(-06) and p FecX(O) = 2.55E(-08)). Homozygous ewes for the mutated allele showed a significantly increased prolificacy (FecX(Gr)/FecX(Gr), LS = 2.50 ± 0.65 versus FecX(+)/FecX(Gr), LS = 1.93 ± 0.42, p<1E(-03) and FecX(O)/FecX(O), OR = 3.28 ± 0.85 versus FecX(+)/FecX(O), OR = 2.02 ± 0.47, p<1E(-03)). Both mutations are located in very well conserved motifs of the protein and altered the BMP15 signaling activity in vitro using a BMP-responsive luciferase test in COV434 granulosa cells. Thus, we have identified two novel mutations in the BMP15 gene associated with increased LS and OR. Notably, homozygous FecX(Gr)/FecX(Gr) Grivette and homozygous FecX(O)/FecX(O) Olkuska ewes are hyperprolific in striking contrast with the sterility exhibited by all other known homozygous BMP15 mutations. Our results bring new insights into the key role played by the BMP15 protein in ovarian function and could contribute to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of women's fertility disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Demars
- INRA, UMR444 Laboratoire de Génétique Cellulaire, Castanet-Tolosan, France.
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Al-Musawi SL, Walton KL, Heath D, Simpson CM, Harrison CA. Species differences in the expression and activity of bone morphogenetic protein 15. Endocrinology 2013; 154:888-99. [PMID: 23284103 DOI: 10.1210/en.2012-2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Oocyte-derived bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) regulates ovulation rate and female fertility in a species-specific manner, being important in humans and sheep and largely superfluous in mice. To understand these species differences, we have compared the expression and activity of human, murine, and ovine BMP15. In HEK293F cells, human BMP15 is highly expressed (120 ng/ml), ovine BMP15 is poorly expressed (15 ng/ml), and murine BMP15 is undetectable. Because BMP15 synthesis is dependent upon interactions between the N-terminal prodomain and the C-terminal mature domain, we used site-directed mutagenesis to identify four prodomain residues (Glu(46), Glu(47), Leu(49), and Glu(50)) that mediate the high expression of human BMP15. Substituting these residues into the prodomains of murine and ovine BMP15 led to significant increases in growth factor expression; however, maximal expression was achieved only when the entire human prodomain was linked to the mature domains of the other species. Using these chimeric constructs, we produced and purified murine and ovine BMP15 and showed that in a COV434 granulosa cell bioassay, these molecules displayed little activity relative to human BMP15 (EC(50) 0.2nM). Sequence analysis suggested that the disparity in activity could be due to species differences at the type I receptor binding interface. Indeed, murine BMP15 activity was restored when specific residues through this region (Pro(329)/Tyr(330)) were replaced with the corresponding residues (Arg(329)/Asp(330)) from human BMP15. The identified differences in the expression and activity of BMP15 likely underlie the relative importance of this growth factor between species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara L Al-Musawi
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
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Lin JY, Pitman-Crawford JL, Bibby AH, Hudson NL, McIntosh CJ, Juengel JL, McNatty KP. Effects of species differences on oocyte regulation of granulosa cell function. Reproduction 2012; 144:557-67. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-12-0267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The aims were to investigate whether oocyte-secreted growth factors from a high (i.e. rat) and low (i.e. sheep) ovulation rate species could stimulate 3H-thymidine incorporation in granulosa cells (GC) from antral follicles from the same or across species. Denuded oocytes (DO) were co-incubated with GC with or without specific antibodies to growth differentiating factor 9 (GDF9) or bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15). Co-incubations of DO-GC from the same or across species significantly increased thymidine incorporation in GC with increasing numbers of DO. GDF9 immuno-neutralisation reduced thymidine incorporation in rat GC co-incubated with either rat or ovine DO and in ovine GC co-incubated with ovine or rat DO. BMP15 immuno-neutralisation only reduced thymidine incorporation when ovine DO were co-incubated with either ovine or rat GC. Western blotting of oocytes co-incubated with GC identified GDF9 and BMP15 proteins for sheep and GDF9 protein for rats in oocyte lysates and incubation media. With respect to rat BMP15, a promature protein was identified in the oocyte lysate but not in media. Expression levels of GDF9 relative to BMP15 mRNA in DO co-incubated with GC were highly correlated (R
2=0.99) within both species. However, the expression ratios were markedly different for the rat and sheep (4.3 vs 1.0 respectively). We conclude that during follicular development, rat oocytes secrete little, if any, BMP15 and that GDF9 without BMP15 can stimulate proliferation of rat and ovine GC. In contrast, ovine oocytes secrete both BMP15 and GDF9, and both were found to stimulate proliferation in ovine and rat GC.
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Pangas SA. Bone morphogenetic protein signaling transcription factor (SMAD) function in granulosa cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2012; 356:40-7. [PMID: 21763749 PMCID: PMC3203253 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2011.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2011] [Revised: 05/27/2011] [Accepted: 06/21/2011] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) family of proteins are key regulators of growth and differentiation. Members of this family, including multiple TGFβs, activins, bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), and growth and differentiation factor 9 (GDF9), are expressed from oocytes or their associated follicular somatic cells (granulosa and thecal cells) with cell-type and stage-dependent specificity. Granulosa cells are the target cells for many of these ligands. Granulosa cell-specific knockout mice for all of the receptor-regulated SMADs, as well as the common regulatory SMAD4, have recently been generated and highlight the importance of this family in most stages of folliculogenesis. These models have also uncovered a novel role for the BMPs in suppression of granulosa cell tumor development and metastasis. This review summarizes the phenotypes of these mouse models and their contribution to our understanding of the complexity of BMP function during follicle development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie A Pangas
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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Hashimoto O, Takagi R, Yanuma F, Doi S, Shindo J, Endo H, Hasegawa Y, Shimasaki S. Identification and characterization of canine growth differentiation factor-9 and its splicing variant. Gene 2012; 499:266-72. [PMID: 22446043 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2012.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2011] [Revised: 02/17/2012] [Accepted: 03/02/2012] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor-9 (GDF-9), a member of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily, is expressed exclusively in the oocyte within the ovary and plays essential roles in the ovarian function in mammals. However, a possible involvement of GDF-9 in canine ovarian physiology that has a unique ovulation process among mammals has not been studied. Interestingly, we have isolated two types of cDNA clones generated by an alternative splicing from a canine ovarian total RNA. The predominant long form cDNA shares a common precursor structure with GDF-9s in other species whereas the minor short form cDNA has a 172 amino acid truncation in the proregion. Using a transient expression system, we found that the long form cDNA has a defect in mature protein production whereas the short form cDNA readily produces mature protein. However, mutations at one or two N-glycosylation sites in the mature domain of the short form GDF-9 caused a loss in mature protein production. These results suggest that the prodomain and N-linked glycosylation of the mature domain regulate proper processing and secretion of canine GDF-9. Based on the biological functions of GDF-9, these characteristics of canine GDF-9 could be causatively linked to the unique ovulation process in the Canidae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osamu Hashimoto
- Laboratory of Experimental Animal Science, Kitasato University, School of Veterinary Medicine, Towada, Aomori 034-8628, Japan.
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Pulkki MM, Mottershead DG, Pasternack AH, Muggalla P, Ludlow H, van Dinther M, Myllymaa S, Koli K, ten Dijke P, Laitinen M, Ritvos O. A covalently dimerized recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-15 variant identifies bone morphogenetic protein receptor type 1B as a key cell surface receptor on ovarian granulosa cells. Endocrinology 2012; 153:1509-18. [PMID: 22294741 DOI: 10.1210/en.2010-1390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Genetic studies have identified bone morphogenetic protein-15 (BMP15) as an essential regulator of female fertility in humans and in sheep. Oocyte-derived BMP15 is a noncovalently linked dimeric growth factor mediating its effects to ovarian somatic cells in a paracrine manner. Although receptor ectodomains capable of binding BMP15 have previously been reported, no cell surface receptor complex involved in BMP15 signaling has previously been characterized. Here we have expressed and purified recombinant human BMP15 noncovalent and covalent dimer variants. The biological effects of these BMP15 variants were assessed in cultured human granulosa-luteal cells or COV434 granulosa cell tumor cells using BMP-responsive transcriptional reporter assays and an inhibin B ELISA. Biochemical characterization of ligand-receptor interactions was performed with affinity-labeling experiments using [(125)I]iodinated BMP15 variants. Both ligand variants were shown to form homodimers and to stimulate Smad1/5/8 signaling and inhibin B production in human granulosa cells in a similar manner. [(125)I]Iodination of both ligands was achieved, but only the covalent dimer variant retained receptor binding capacity. The [(125)I]BMP15(S356C) variant bound preferentially to endogenous BMP receptor 1B (BMPR1B) and BMPR2 receptors on COV434 cells. Binding experiments in COS cells with overexpression of these receptors confirmed that the [(125)I]BMP15(S356C) variant binds to BMPR1B and BMPR2 forming the BMP15 signaling complex. The results provide the first direct evidence in any species on the identification of specific cell surface receptors for a member of the GDF9/BMP15 subfamily of oocyte growth factors. The fact that BMP15 uses preferentially BMPR1B as its type I receptor suggests an important role for the BMPR1B receptor in human female fertility. The result is well in line with the demonstration of ovarian failure in a recently reported human subject with a homozygous BMPR1B loss-of-function mutant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minna M Pulkki
- Department of Bacteriology and Immunology, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki and HUSLAB, University Central Hospital of Helsinki, FIN-00029 Helsinki, Finland.
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