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Bérubé M, Abedini A, Lapointe E, Gusscott S, Brind'Amour J, Zamberlam G, Boerboom D. SFRP4 promotes autophagy and blunts FSH responsiveness through inhibition of AKT signaling in ovarian granulosa cells. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:396. [PMID: 39138534 PMCID: PMC11323480 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01736-1] [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: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Secreted frizzled-related proteins (SFRPs) comprise a family of WNT signaling antagonists whose roles in the ovary are poorly understood. Sfrp4-null mice were previously found to be hyperfertile due to an enhanced granulosa cell response to gonadotropins, leading to decreased antral follicle atresia and enhanced ovulation rates. The present study aimed to elucidate the mechanisms whereby SFRP4 antagonizes FSH action. METHODS Primary cultures of granulosa cells from wild-type mice were treated with FSH and/or SFRP4, and effects of treatment on gene expression were evaluated by RT-qPCR and RNAseq. Bioinformatic analyses were conducted to analyse the effects of SFRP4 on the transcriptome, and compare them to those of FSH or a constitutively active mutant of FOXO1. Additional granulosa cell cultures from wild-type or Sfrp4-null mice, some pretreated with pharmacologic inhibitors of specific signaling effectors, were used to examine the effects of FSH and/or SFRP4 on signaling pathways, autophagy and apoptosis by western blotting and TUNEL. RESULTS Treatment of cultured granulosa cells with recombinant SFRP4 was found to decrease basal and FSH-stimulated mRNA levels of FSH target genes. Unexpectedly, this effect was found to occur neither via a canonical (CTNNB1-dependent) nor non-canonical WNT signaling mechanism, but was found to be GSK3β-dependent. Rather, SFRP4 was found to antognize AKT activity via a mechanism involving AMPK. This lead to the hypophosphorylation of FOXO1 and a decrease in the expression of a portion of the FSH and FOXO1 transcriptomes. Conversely, FSH-stimulated AMPK, AKT and FOXO1 phosphorylation levels were found to be increased in the granulosa cells of Sfrp4-null mice relative to wild-type controls. SFRP4 treatement of granulosa cells also induced autophagy by signaling via AKT-mTORC1-ULK1, as well as apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS This study identifies a novel GSK3β-AMPK-AKT signaling mechanism through which SFPR4 antagonizes FSH action, and further identifies SFRP4 as a novel regulator of granulosa cell autophagy. These findings provide a mechanistic basis for the phenotypic changes previously observed in Sfrp4-null mice, and broaden our understanding of the physiological roles of WNT signaling processes in the ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Bérubé
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 rue Sicotte, St-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Atefeh Abedini
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 rue Sicotte, St-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Evelyne Lapointe
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 rue Sicotte, St-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Samuel Gusscott
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 rue Sicotte, St-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Julie Brind'Amour
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 rue Sicotte, St-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Gustavo Zamberlam
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 rue Sicotte, St-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Derek Boerboom
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 rue Sicotte, St-Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 2M2, Canada.
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Dang W, Ren Y, Chen Q, He M, Kebreab E, Wang D, Lyu L. Notch2 Regulates the Function of Bovine Follicular Granulosa Cells via the Wnt2/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1001. [PMID: 38612240 PMCID: PMC11010942 DOI: 10.3390/ani14071001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Ovarian follicular GCs are strongly implicated in the growth, development, and atresia of ovarian follicles. The Wnt/β-catenin and Notch signaling pathways participate in GC proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and steroid hormone production during follicular development. However, the crosstalk between Wnt and Notch signaling in GCs remains unclear. This study investigated this crosstalk and the roles of these pathways in apoptosis, cell cycle progression, cell proliferation, and steroid hormone secretion in bovine follicular GCs. The interaction between β-catenin and Notch2 in GCs was assessed by overexpressing CTNNB1, which encodes β-catenin. The results showed that inhibiting the Notch pathway by Notch2 silencing in GCs arrested the cell cycle, promoted apoptosis, reduced progesterone (P4) production, and inhibited the Wnt2-mediated Wnt/β-catenin pathway in GCs. IWR-1 inhibited Wnt2/β-catenin and Notch signaling, reduced GC proliferation, stimulated apoptosis, induced G1 cell cycle arrest, and reduced P4 production. CTNNB1 overexpression had the opposite effect and increased 17β-estradiol (E2) production and Notch2 protein expression. Co-immunoprecipitation assays revealed that Notch2 interacted with β-catenin. These results elucidate the crosstalk between the Wnt/β-catenin and Notch pathways and the role of these pathways in bovine follicular GC development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqing Dang
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong 030801, China; (W.D.); (Y.R.); (Q.C.); (M.H.)
| | - Yongping Ren
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong 030801, China; (W.D.); (Y.R.); (Q.C.); (M.H.)
| | - Qingqing Chen
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong 030801, China; (W.D.); (Y.R.); (Q.C.); (M.H.)
| | - Min He
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong 030801, China; (W.D.); (Y.R.); (Q.C.); (M.H.)
| | - Ermias Kebreab
- College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA;
| | - Dong Wang
- Institute of Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Lihua Lyu
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong 030801, China; (W.D.); (Y.R.); (Q.C.); (M.H.)
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Ahuja K, Batra V, Kumar R, Datta TK. Transient suppression of Wnt signaling in poor-quality buffalo oocytes improves their developmental competence. Front Vet Sci 2024; 10:1324647. [PMID: 38274663 PMCID: PMC10808588 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1324647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction One of the most evolutionary conserved communication systems, the Wnt signaling pathway is a major gene regulatory pathway that affects the developmental competence of oocytes and regulates most embryonic developmental processes. The present study was undertaken to modulate the canonical Wnt (Wingless/integration) signaling pathway in the poor-quality (colorless cytoplasm after Brilliant Cresyl Blue staining, BCB-) buffalo cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) to improve their in vitro maturation (IVM) and embryo production (IVEP) rates. Methods The expression of key Wnt pathway genes was initially assessed in the good (blue cytoplasm after Brilliant Cresyl Blue staining, BCB+) and poor quality (BCB-) buffalo COCs to establish a differential activity of the Wnt pathway. The BCB- COCs were supplemented with the Wnt pathway inhibitor, Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK1) and later subjected to IVM and IVEP along with the BCB+ and BCB- controls. The cumulus expansion index (CEI), rate of nuclear maturation (mean percentage of oocytes in the MII stage) and embryo production, and the expression of developmentally important genes were evaluated to assess the effect of Wnt pathway inhibition on the development competence of these poor-quality oocytes. Results The Wnt pathway genes exhibited a significantly higher expression (p < 0.05) in the poor-quality BCB- oocytes compared to the good-quality BCB+ oocytes during the early maturation stages. The supplementation of BCB- COCs with 100 ng/mL DKK1 effectively inhibited the expression of the key mediators of the Wnt pathway (β-catenin and dishevelled homolog 1, DVL1). DKK1 supplemented BCB- COCs exhibited significantly improved cytoplasmic and nuclear maturation indices, development rates and significantly elevated expression (p < 0.05) of genes implicated in germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) and embryonic genome activation (EGA) vis-à-vis BCB- control COCs. Conclusion These data indicate that inhibition of the Wnt pathway during the initial course of oocyte maturation can improve the development competence of poor-quality buffalo oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kriti Ahuja
- Animal Genomics Lab, Animal Biotechnology Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Vipul Batra
- Animal Genomics Lab, Animal Biotechnology Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
- Lifespan and Population Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- Animal Genomics Lab, Animal Biotechnology Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Tirtha Kumar Datta
- Animal Genomics Lab, Animal Biotechnology Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
- ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes, Hisar, India
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Park H, Lee DH, You JH, Seok J, Lim JY, Kim GJ. Increased Hepatocyte Growth Factor Secretion by Placenta-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Improves Ovarian Function in an Ovariectomized Rat Model via Vascular Remodeling by Wnt Signaling Activation. Cells 2023; 12:2708. [PMID: 38067136 PMCID: PMC10705748 DOI: 10.3390/cells12232708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The vascular network contributes to the development of follicles. However, the therapeutic mechanism between vascular remodeling and ovarian functions is still unclear. Therefore, we demonstrated whether increased HGF by placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PD-MSCs) improves ovarian function in an ovariectomized rat model via vascular remodeling by Wnt signaling activation. We established a half-ovariectomized rat model in which damaged ovaries were induced by ovariectomy of half of each ovary, and PD-MSCs (5 × 105 cells) were transplanted by intravenous injection. Three weeks after transplantation, rats in all groups were sacrificed. We examined the secretion of HGF by PD-MSCs through culture medium. The vascular structure in injured ovarian tissues was restored to a greater extent in the PD-MSC transplantation (Tx) group than in the nontransplantation (NTx) group (* p < 0.05). The expression of genes related to Wnt signaling (e.g., LRP6, GSK3β, β-catenin) was significantly increased in the Tx group compared to the NTx group (* p < 0.05). However, the expression of genes related to vascular permeability (e.g., Asef, ERG3) was significantly decreased in the Tx group compared to the NTx group (* p < 0.05). Follicular development was improved in the Tx group compared to the NTx group (* p < 0.05). Furthermore, to evaluate vascular function, we cocultivated PD-MSCs after human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and we analyzed the vascular formation assay and dextran assay in HUVECs. Cocultivation of PD-MSCs with injured HUVECs enhanced vascular formation and decreased endothelial cell permeability (* p < 0.05). Also, cocultivation of PD-MSCs with explanted ovarian tissues improved follicular maturation compared to cocultivation of the Wnt inhibitor-treated PD-MSCs with explanted ovarian tissues. Therefore, HGF secreted by PD-MSCs improved ovarian function in rats with ovarian dysfunction by decreasing vascular permeability via Wnt signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeri Park
- Department of Bioinspired Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si 13488, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
- PLABiologics Co., Ltd., Seongnam-si 13522, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae Hyun Lee
- Department of Bioinspired Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si 13488, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
- PLABiologics Co., Ltd., Seongnam-si 13522, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Hyeong You
- Department of Bioinspired Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si 13488, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Seok
- Department of Bioinspired Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si 13488, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Ja-Yun Lim
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, Hyejeon College, Hongsung-gun 32244, Chungnam-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi Jin Kim
- Department of Bioinspired Science, CHA University, Seongnam-si 13488, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
- PLABiologics Co., Ltd., Seongnam-si 13522, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
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Converse A, Liu Z, Patel JC, Shakyawar S, Guda C, Bousfield GR, Kumar TR, Duncan FE. Oocyte quality is enhanced by hypoglycosylated FSH through increased cell-to-cell interaction during mouse follicle development. Development 2023; 150:dev202170. [PMID: 37870089 PMCID: PMC10651093 DOI: 10.1242/dev.202170] [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: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Macroheterogeneity in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) β-subunit N-glycosylation results in distinct FSH glycoforms. Hypoglycosylated FSH21 is the abundant and more bioactive form in pituitaries of females under 35 years of age, whereas fully glycosylated FSH24 is less bioactive and increases with age. To investigate whether the shift in FSH glycoform abundance contributes to the age-dependent decline in oocyte quality, the direct effects of FSH glycoforms on folliculogenesis and oocyte quality were determined using an encapsulated in vitro mouse follicle growth system. Long-term culture (10-12 days) with FSH21 (10 ng/ml) enhanced follicle growth, estradiol secretion and oocyte quality compared with FSH24 (10 ng/ml) treatment. FSH21 enhanced establishment of transzonal projections, gap junctions and cell-to-cell communication within 24 h in culture. Transient inhibition of FSH21-mediated bidirectional communication abrogated the positive effects of FSH21 on follicle growth, estradiol secretion and oocyte quality. Our data indicate that FSH21 promotes folliculogenesis and oocyte quality in vitro by increasing cell-to-cell communication early in folliculogenesis, and that the shift in in vivo abundance from FSH21 to FSH24 with reproductive aging may contribute to the age-dependent decline in oocyte quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aubrey Converse
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Zhenghui Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Jai C. Patel
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Sushil Shakyawar
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Chittibabu Guda
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - George R. Bousfield
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wichita State University, Wichita, KS 67260, USA
| | - T. Rajendra Kumar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Francesca E. Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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Zhu M, Xu M, Zhang J, Zheng C. The role of Hippo pathway in ovarian development. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1198873. [PMID: 37334049 PMCID: PMC10275494 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1198873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The follicle is the functional unit of the ovary, whereby ovarian development is largely dependent on the development of the follicles themselves. The activation, growth, and progression of follicles are modulated by a diverse range of factors, including reproductive endocrine system and multiple signaling pathways. The Hippo pathway exhibits a high degree of evolutionary conservation between both Drosophila and mammalian systems, and is recognized for its pivotal role in regulating cellular proliferation, control of organ size, and embryonic development. During the process of follicle development, the components of the Hippo pathway show temporal and spatial variations. Recent clinical studies have shown that ovarian fragmentation can activate follicles. The mechanism is that the mechanical signal of cutting triggers actin polymerization. This process leads to the disruption of the Hippo pathway and subsequently induces the upregulation of downstream CCN and apoptosis inhibitors, thereby promoting follicle development. Thus, the Hippo pathway plays a crucial role in both the activation and development of follicles. In this article, we focused on the development and atresia of follicles and the function of Hippo pathway in these processes. Additionally, the physiological effects of Hippo pathway in follicle activation are also explored.
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Xie J, Xu X, Liu S. Intercellular communication in the cumulus-oocyte complex during folliculogenesis: A review. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1087612. [PMID: 36743407 PMCID: PMC9893509 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1087612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
During folliculogenesis, the oocyte and surrounding cumulus cells form an ensemble called the cumulus-oocyte complex (COC). Due to their interdependence, research on the COC has been a hot issue in the past few decades. A growing body of literature has revealed that intercellular communication is critical in determining oocyte quality and ovulation. This review provides an update on the current knowledge of COC intercellular communication, morphology, and functions. Transzonal projections (TZPs) and gap junctions are the most described structures of the COC. They provide basic metabolic and nutrient support, and abundant molecules for signaling pathways and regulations. Oocyte-secreted factors (OSFs) such as growth differentiation factor 9 and bone morphogenetic protein 15 have been linked with follicular homeostasis, suggesting that the communications are bidirectional. Using advanced techniques, new evidence has highlighted the existence of other structures that participate in intercellular communication. Extracellular vesicles can carry transcripts and signaling molecules. Microvilli on the oocyte can induce the formation of TZPs and secrete OSFs. Cell membrane fusion between the oocyte and cumulus cells can lead to sharing of cytoplasm, in a way making the COC a true whole. These findings give us new insights into related reproductive diseases like polycystic ovary syndrome and primary ovarian insufficiency and how to improve the outcomes of assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Xie
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Suying Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Suying Liu,
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Zhou T, Zhang H, Chen M, Zhang Y, Chen G, Zou G, Liang H. Identification and Expression Analysis of Wnt2 Gene in the Sex Differentiation of the Chinese Soft-Shelled Turtle ( Pelodiscus sinensis). LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 13:life13010188. [PMID: 36676139 PMCID: PMC9864750 DOI: 10.3390/life13010188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The Chinese soft-shelled turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis) is an important freshwater aquaculture animal in China. The Wnt gene family plays important regulatory roles in the development and growth of mammals. However, the precise function of these family genes has not been well understood in the sex differentiation of Chinese soft-shelled turtles. Here, we cloned a member of the Wnt family, Wnt2, which obtained a 1077 bp open reading frame that encoded a 358-aa protein. The putative amino acid sequences of proteins are exceeded 80% identical to other turtles. The expression level of Wnt2 peaked at the 14th stage both in female and male embryos during the early gonadal differentiation period of Chinese soft-shelled turtles, which occurred before gonadal differentiation. Wnt2 mRNA was expressed at higher levels in the brains and gonads of mature P. sinensis females compared with those in mature males. Wnt agonists significantly affected the expression level of Wnt2 during the gonadal differentiation period. After Wnt agonists (1.0 μg/μL, 2.5 μg/μL, 5.0 μg/μL) treatment, the expression level of the Wnt2 generally appeared to have an inverted-V trend over time in female embryonic gonads. The results suggested that Wnt2 may participate in the regulation of gonad development in P. sinensis during the early embryonic stages. These results could provide a theoretical basis for the reproduction process of the Chinese soft-shelled turtle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Zhou
- Yangtze River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuhan 430223, China
| | - Haiqi Zhang
- Zhejiang Institute of Freshwater Fisheries, Huzhou 313001, China
| | - Meng Chen
- Yangtze River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuhan 430223, China
| | - Yingping Zhang
- Yangtze River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuhan 430223, China
| | - Guobin Chen
- Yangtze River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuhan 430223, China
| | - Guiwei Zou
- Yangtze River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuhan 430223, China
- Correspondence: (G.Z.); (H.L.)
| | - Hongwei Liang
- Yangtze River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuhan 430223, China
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genomics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yangtze River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Wuhan 430223, China
- Correspondence: (G.Z.); (H.L.)
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9
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Identification and characterization of unique and common lncRNAs and mRNAs in the pituitary, ovary, and uterus of Hu sheep with different prolificacy. Genomics 2022; 114:110511. [PMID: 36283658 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2022.110511] [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: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
LncRNAs are regarded as regulators in various animal reproductive physiological processes. However, the regulation of lncRNAs in the reproductive organ development of Hu sheep with different prolificacy remains unknown. Herein, numerous tissue-unique and -common differentially expressed lncRNAs (DELs) and differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and fecundity-unique DELs and DEGs were identified among different comparison groups at horizontal and vertical levels. Moreover, the tissue-unique and -common, and fecundity-unique female reproduction-associated DEGs and DELs were screened, and the interaction networks were constructed. Furthermore, MSTRG.43442.1 was mainly present in the cytoplasm of tested cells. The key genes ADAMTS1 and DCN were mainly localized in the granulosa cells, pituitary cells and/or endometrial epithelial cells of ovary, pituitary and/or uterus. Overall, this study identified large numbers of unique and common DELs and DEGs in the female reproductive organs of Hu sheep with different prolificacy and provided new insights into understanding the regulation of Hu sheep fecundity.
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Babaki S, Zavareh S, Farrokh P, Nasiri M. Evaluating the Expression of Wnt Pathway Related Genes in Mouse Vitrified Preantral Follicles: An Experimental Study. J Reprod Infertil 2021; 22:151-158. [PMID: 34900635 PMCID: PMC8607873 DOI: 10.18502/jri.v22i3.6715] [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: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Wnt signaling pathway plays critical role in ovarian follicle development. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of vitrification on the expression of Wnt pathway related genes in preantral follicles (PFs). Methods Isolated PFs (n=982) of 14-16 day old female mice (n=45: 15 for each group) were divided into fresh (n=265), toxicity (n=272), and vitrified (n=265). The mRNA levels of Wnt2, Wnt4, Lrp5 and Fzd3 were evaluated by real-time PCR on the 2nd and 6th days of culture period. One-way ANOVA was conducted to analyze the data. Post hoc Tukey's HSD was used for multiple comparisons and p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results The developmental parameters of fresh PFs were significantly higher than those of vitrified (p<0.001). There were no differences between fresh and vitrified PFs on the 2nd day of culture (p<0.001). Wnt4 expression levels decreased significantly in vitrified groups compared with fresh ones (p<0.001). Fzd3 and Lrp expression levels increased significantly in vitrified groups compared with those in the fresh group on the 2nd day (p<0.001). On the 6th day of culture period, the expression levels of Wnt2 and Fzd3 increased significantly in vitrified group compared to those of fresh group (p<0.001). Moreover, the expression levels of Wnt4 and Lrp increased significantly in toxicity groups compared to those of the control group (p<0.001). Conclusion Vitrification increase the expression levels of Wnt2, Lrp and Fzd3 genes of PFs during in vitro culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahla Babaki
- School of Biology, Damghan University, Damghan, Iran
| | - Saeed Zavareh
- School of Biology, Damghan University, Damghan, Iran.,Institute of Biological Sciences, Damghan University, Damghan, Iran
| | - Parisa Farrokh
- School of Biology, Damghan University, Damghan, Iran.,Institute of Biological Sciences, Damghan University, Damghan, Iran
| | - Meysam Nasiri
- School of Biology, Damghan University, Damghan, Iran.,Institute of Biological Sciences, Damghan University, Damghan, Iran
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Wang Y, Chen Y, Cao M, Wang X, Wang G, Li J. Identification of wnt2 in the pearl mussel Hyriopsis cumingii and its role in innate immunity and gonadal development. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 118:85-93. [PMID: 34438059 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2021.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Wnt2 is a significant factor in the Wnt signaling pathway, which is associated with a variety of physiological activities, including inflammatory response, cell apoptosis, reproductive system development, and cell differentiation. Hyriopsis cumingii is the main pearl breeding mussel in China. However, the role of wnt2 in this species remains unclear. In this study, wnt2 from H. cumingii was cloned and identified. The full-length cDNA of wnt2 is 1524 bp, containing a 963 bp open reading frame (ORF), encoding 320 amino acid residues. The tissue distribution of H. cumingii indicated that wnt2 was predominantly highly expressed in the ovary and gill. And the expression profile after Aeromonas hydrophila or LPS injection indicated that wnt2 was up-regulated in gill, suggesting its role in the innate immune response. The expression of wnt2 was high at 4-month-old of early gonadal development and throughout ovarian development. In situ hybridization (ISH) showed significant hybridization signals on the gills and mature eggs of female gonads. In addition, miR-1988b-5p was found to negatively regulate wnt2 to affect the expression of key genes (frizzled-5, ctnnb1, and tcf7l) in the Wnt signaling pathway. Thus, these findings suggest a key role for wnt2 in immune regulation and gonadal development in H. cumingii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yayu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Ocean University, 999 Huchenghuan Road, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai, 201306, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Aquaculture, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Ya Chen
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Ocean University, 999 Huchenghuan Road, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai, 201306, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Aquaculture, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Mulian Cao
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Ocean University, 999 Huchenghuan Road, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai, 201306, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Aquaculture, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Ocean University, 999 Huchenghuan Road, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai, 201306, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Aquaculture, Shanghai, 201306, China
| | - Guiling Wang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Ocean University, 999 Huchenghuan Road, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai, 201306, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Aquaculture, Shanghai, 201306, China.
| | - Jiale Li
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Aquatic Genetic Resources, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Shanghai Ocean University, 999 Huchenghuan Road, Shanghai, 201306, China; National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai, 201306, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Aquaculture, Shanghai, 201306, China
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12
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Li L, Shi X, Shi Y, Wang Z. The Signaling Pathways Involved in Ovarian Follicle Development. Front Physiol 2021; 12:730196. [PMID: 34646156 PMCID: PMC8504451 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.730196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The follicle is the functional unit of the ovary, which is composed of three types of cells: oocytes, granulosa cells, and theca cells. Ovarian follicle development and the subsequent ovulation process are coordinated by highly complex interplay between endocrine, paracrine, and autocrine signals, which coordinate steroidogenesis and gametogenesis. Follicle development is regulated mainly by three organs, the hypothalamus, anterior pituitary, and gonad, which make up the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Steroid hormones and their receptors play pivotal roles in follicle development and participate in a series of classical signaling pathways. In this review, we summarize and compare the role of classical signaling pathways, such as the WNT, insulin, Notch, and Hedgehog pathways, in ovarian follicle development and the underlying regulatory mechanism. We have also found that these four signaling pathways all interact with FOXO3, a transcription factor that is widely known to be under control of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and has been implicated as a major signaling pathway in the regulation of dormancy and initial follicular activation in the ovary. Although some of these interactions with FOXO3 have not been verified in ovarian follicle cells, there is a high possibility that FOXO3 plays a core role in follicular development and is regulated by classical signaling pathways. In this review, we present these signaling pathways from a comprehensive perspective to obtain a better understanding of the follicular development process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyuan Li
- Protein Science Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.,Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojin Shi
- Protein Science Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Shi
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zhao Wang
- Protein Science Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
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13
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Kordowitzki P, Sokołowska G, Wasielak-Politowska M, Skowronska A, Skowronski MT. Pannexins and Connexins: Their Relevance for Oocyte Developmental Competence. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115918. [PMID: 34072911 PMCID: PMC8199496 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The oocyte is the major determinant of embryo developmental competence in all mammalian species. Although fundamental advances have been generated in the field of reproductive medicine and assisted reproductive technologies in the past three decades, researchers and clinicians are still trying to elucidate molecular factors and pathways, which could be pivotal for the oocyte’s developmental competence. The cell-to-cell and cell-to-matrix communications are crucial not only for oocytes but also for multicellular organisms in general. This latter mentioned communication is among others possibly due to the Connexin and Pannexin families of large-pore forming channels. Pannexins belong to a protein group of ATP-release channels, therefore of high importance for the oocyte due to its requirements of high energy supply. An increasing body of studies on Pannexins provided evidence that these channels not only play a role during physiological processes of an oocyte but also during pathological circumstances which could lead to the development of diseases or infertility. Connexins are proteins that form membrane channels and gap-junctions, and more precisely, these proteins enable the exchange of some ions and molecules, and therefore they do play a fundamental role in the communication between the oocyte and accompanying cells. Herein, the role of Pannexins and Connexins for the processes of oogenesis, folliculogenesis, oocyte maturation and fertilization will be discussed and, at the end of this review, Pannexin and Connexin related pathologies and their impact on the developmental competence of oocytes will be provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Kordowitzki
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of Polish Academy of Sciences, Bydgoska Street 7, 10-243 Olsztyn, Poland;
- Department of Basic and Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Gagarina Street 7, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Gabriela Sokołowska
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Jana Kilińskiego Street 1, 15-089 Białystok, Poland;
| | - Marta Wasielak-Politowska
- Center of Gynecology, Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine—Artemida, Jagiellońska Street 78, 10-357 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Agnieszka Skowronska
- Department of Human Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia and Mazury, Warszawska Street 30, 10-357 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Mariusz T. Skowronski
- Department of Basic and Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Gagarina Street 7, 87-100 Torun, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-566-112-231
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14
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Hwang SU, Yoon JD, Kim M, Cai L, Choi H, Oh D, Kim E, Hyun SH. R-Spondin 2 and WNT/CTNNB1 Signaling Pathways Are Required for Porcine Follicle Development and In Vitro Maturation. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11030709. [PMID: 33807916 PMCID: PMC7998564 DOI: 10.3390/ani11030709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The secretion of oocyte-derived paracrine factors, such as R-spondin2, is an essential mechanism for follicle growth by promoting the proliferation and differentiation of cumulus cells around oocytes. In the present study, we aimed to identify the effect of R-spondin2 during follicular development. First, R-spondin2-related factors (R-spondin2, CTNNB1, LGR4, and LGR5) were identified through immunofluorescence in porcine ovarian tissue. CTNNB1 was expressed in ooplasm, and CTNNB1 and LGR4 were expressed in granulosa cells. In addition, R-spondin2, LGR4, and LGR5 were expressed in the theca interna. These results imply that these proteins play a major role in porcine follicular development. In addition, the effects of R-spondin2 on the in vitro maturation process of porcine cumulus oocyte complexes and subsequent embryonic development were confirmed. A treatment of 100 ng/mL R-spondin2 in the in vitro maturation (IVM) process increased nuclear maturation and increased the expression of EGFR mRNA in cumulus cells. The EGFR-ERK signal is essential for oocyte maturation, ovulation, and luteinization. R-spondin2 treatment also increased the expression of CTNNB1 and EGFR in primary cultured cumulus cells. In conclusion, RSPO2 and WNT/CTNNB1 signaling pathways are required for porcine follicle development and are predicted to be involved in the EGFR-ERK signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seon-Ung Hwang
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (S.-U.H.); (J.D.Y.); (M.K.); (L.C.); (H.C.); (D.O.)
- Institute of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Junchul David Yoon
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (S.-U.H.); (J.D.Y.); (M.K.); (L.C.); (H.C.); (D.O.)
- Institute of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Mirae Kim
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (S.-U.H.); (J.D.Y.); (M.K.); (L.C.); (H.C.); (D.O.)
- Institute of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Lian Cai
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (S.-U.H.); (J.D.Y.); (M.K.); (L.C.); (H.C.); (D.O.)
- Institute of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Hyerin Choi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (S.-U.H.); (J.D.Y.); (M.K.); (L.C.); (H.C.); (D.O.)
- Institute of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Dongjin Oh
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (S.-U.H.); (J.D.Y.); (M.K.); (L.C.); (H.C.); (D.O.)
- Institute of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Eunhye Kim
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (S.-U.H.); (J.D.Y.); (M.K.); (L.C.); (H.C.); (D.O.)
- Correspondence: (E.K.); (S.-H.H.); Tel.: +82-43-249-1746 (E.K.); +82-43-261-3393 (S.-H.H.)
| | - Sang-Hwan Hyun
- Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology (VETEMBIO), College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (S.-U.H.); (J.D.Y.); (M.K.); (L.C.); (H.C.); (D.O.)
- Institute of Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM), Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
- Correspondence: (E.K.); (S.-H.H.); Tel.: +82-43-249-1746 (E.K.); +82-43-261-3393 (S.-H.H.)
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15
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Sabry R, Apps C, Reiter-Saunders JA, Saleh AC, Balachandran S, St. John EJ, Favetta LA. BPA and BPS Affect Connexin 37 in Bovine Cumulus Cells. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:321. [PMID: 33672423 PMCID: PMC7926832 DOI: 10.3390/genes12020321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Bisphenol S (BPS) is used as an alternative plasticizer to Bisphenol A (BPA), despite limited knowledge of potential adverse effects. BPA exhibits endocrine disrupting effects during development. This article focuses on the impact of bisphenols during oocyte maturation. Connexins (Cx) are gap junctional proteins that may be affected by bisphenols, providing insight into their mechanism during development. Cxs 37 and 43 are crucial in facilitating cell communication between cumulus cells and oocytes. Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs), denuded oocytes, and cumulus cells were exposed to 0.05 mg/mL BPA or BPS for 24 h. Both compounds had no effect on Cx43. Cumulus cells exhibited a significant increase in Cx37 expression following BPA (p = 0.001) and BPS (p = 0.017) exposure. COCs treated with BPA had increased Cx37 protein expression, whilst BPS showed no effects, suggesting BPA and BPS act through different mechanisms. Experiments conducted in in vitro cultured cumulus cells, obtained by stripping germinal vesicle oocytes, showed significantly increased expression of Cx37 in BPA, but not the BPS, treated group. BPA significantly increased Cx37 protein expression, while BPS did not. Disrupted Cx37 following BPA exposure provides an indication of possible effects of bisphenols on connexins during the early stages of development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Laura A. Favetta
- Reproductive Health and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (R.S.); (C.A.); (J.A.R.-S.); (A.C.S.); (S.B.); (E.J.S.J.)
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16
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Lin TC, Wang KH, Chuang KH, Kao AP, Kuo TC. Downregulation of gap junctional intercellular communication and connexin 43 expression by bisphenol A in human granulosa cells. Biotechnol Appl Biochem 2020; 68:676-682. [PMID: 32610363 DOI: 10.1002/bab.1979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) is the transfer of ions, metabolites, and second messengers between neighboring cells through intercellular junctions. Connexin 43 (Cx43) was found to be the type of gap junction protein responsible for human granulosa cells (GCs) and oocyte communication, which is required for folliculogenesis and oocyte maturation. Bisphenol A (BPA), an estrogenic-like endocrine-disrupting chemical, is one of the most widely produced chemicals around the world. There are reports that the chemical might cause endometrial tumorigenesis and several female reproductive disorders. This study demonstrated that cell culture medium, containing antioxidants (N-acetyl-l-cysteine and l-ascorbic acid-2-phosphate), was able to enhance the survival and self-renewal of GCs. In addition, we found that BPA at environmentally relevant concentration (10-7 M) reduced Cx43 expression and GJIC in GCs through estrogen receptor and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways. The results of this study not only reveal the reproductive toxicity of BPA but also provide possible mechanisms by which BPA inhibited GJIC in GCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ta-Chin Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kuo General Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Kuo General Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Kai-Hung Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kuo General Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Kuo General Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Kuo General Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Hsiang Chuang
- Graduate Institute of Pharmacognosy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - An-Pei Kao
- Stemforce Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Cheng Kuo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kuo General Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan.,Center for Reproductive Medicine, Kuo General Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan
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17
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Tepekoy F, Akkoyunlu G. The interaction of Wnt signaling members with growth factors in cultured granulosa cells. Anim Reprod 2020; 17:e20190106. [PMID: 32714449 PMCID: PMC7375871 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2019-0106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Wnt family members have recently been distinguished in the adult ovary with potential roles in ovarian function. Though particular growth factors interact with Wnt signaling members in extraovarian cell types, it is unclear whether this interaction is applicable in the granulosa cells. Therefore, the current study aimed to determine the effect of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-I), epidermal growth factor (EGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-β) on Wnt ligands WNT2 and WNT4 and Wnt receptor Frizzled-4 (FZD4) protein levels in cultured mouse granulosa cells. Granulosa cells were isolated from antral follicles of adult Balb/C mice and cultured for 24 hours in the presence of 100 ng/mL of IGF-I, or EGF or FGF-β. WNT2, WNT4 and FZD4 protein levels were evaluated through western blotting after the culture process. IGF-I treated granulosa cells had significantly the highest level of WNT2 and WNT4 as well as FZD4 when compared to FGF-β and EGF groups. FGF-β group had a significantly higher level of WNT2, WNT4 and FZD4 expression when compared to EGF group. FZD4 expression was at the highest level in the IGF-I group and this difference was statistically significant for all groups including uncultured cells and vehicle group. In addition, FGF-β was shown to positively affect the adhesion of granulosa cells. This study demonstrates that IGF-I, FGF-β and EGF have differential effects on the expressions of WNT2, WNT4, and FZD4 in cultured mouse granulosa cells, suggesting that particular growth factors related to ovarian function might conduct their roles in the ovary through Wnt signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filiz Tepekoy
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Altinbas University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Gokhan Akkoyunlu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
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18
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Hou X, Khan MRA, Turmaine M, Thrasivoulou C, Becker DL, Ahmed A. Wnt signaling regulates cytosolic translocation of connexin 43. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2019; 317:R248-R261. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00268.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The availability of intracellular, stabilized β-catenin, a transcription factor coactivator, is tightly regulated; β-catenin is translocated into the nucleus in response to Wnt ligand binding to its cell membrane receptors. Here we show that Wnt signal activation in mammalian cells activates intracellular mobilization of connexin 43 (Cx43), which belongs to a gap junction protein family, a new target protein in response to extracellular Wnt signal activation. Transmission electron microscopy showed that the nuclear localization of Cx43 was increased by 8- to 10-fold in Wnt5A- and 9B-treated cells compared with controls; this Wnt-induced increase was negated in the cells where Cx43 and β-catenin were knocked down using shRNA. There was a significant ( P < 0.001) and concomitant depletion of the cell membrane and cytosolic signal of Cx43 in Wnt-treated cells with an increase in the nuclear signal for Cx43; this was more obvious in cells where β-catenin was knocked down using shRNA. Conversely, Cx43 knockdown resulted in increased β-catenin in the nucleus in the absence of Wnt activation. Coimmunoprecipitation of Cx43 and β-catenin proteins with a casein kinase (CKIδ) antibody showed that Cx43 interacts with β-catenin and may form part of the so-called destruction complex. Functionally, Wnt activation increased the rate of wound reepithelization in rat skin in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoming Hou
- Prostate Cancer Research Centre, Division of Surgery, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Research Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, The Centre for Cell and Molecular Dynamics, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mohammad R. A. Khan
- Prostate Cancer Research Centre at the Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Turmaine
- Division of Biosciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher Thrasivoulou
- Research Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, The Centre for Cell and Molecular Dynamics, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David L Becker
- Research Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, The Centre for Cell and Molecular Dynamics, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
- Institute of Medical Biology, A*STAR, Singapore
| | - Aamir Ahmed
- Prostate Cancer Research Centre, Division of Surgery, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Prostate Cancer Research Centre at the Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
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19
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Xu P, Huang BY, Zhan JH, Liu MT, Fu Y, Su YQ, Sun QY, Wang WH, Chen DJ, Liu JQ. Insulin Reduces Reaction of Follicular Granulosa Cells to FSH Stimulation in Women With Obesity-Related Infertility During IVF. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2019; 104:2547-2560. [PMID: 30476103 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2018-00686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Women with obesity usually need larger doses of FSH for ovarian stimulation, resulting in poor outcomes; however, the mechanism is still unclear. OBJECTIVE To investigate the molecular regulation of FSH receptor (FSHR) expression associated with obesity. DESIGN Case-control study to improve in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes. PATIENTS Women with obesity (82) and women who were overweight (457) undergoing IVF and 1790 age-matched controls with normal weight from our reproductive medicine center. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES FSHR expression was decreased in parallel with body mass index (BMI), whereas the estradiol (E2) level on the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) trigger day was significantly lower. RESULTS FSHR expression in human granulosa cells (hGCs), both mRNA (P = 0.02) and protein (P = 0.001) levels, was decreased in women who were overweight or obese. Both insulin (P < 0.001) and glucose (P = 0.0017) levels were positively correlated with BMI in fasting blood and follicle fluids (FFs) but not with FFs leptin level. We treated human granulosa-like tumor cells (KGN) cells with insulin; E2 production was compromised; the level of phosphorylated (p)-protein kinase B (p-Akt2) decreased, whereas p-glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) increased; and there were similar changes in hGCs from women with obesity. Stimulated hGCs from women with obesity with compound 21 (CP21), an inhibitor of GSK3β, resulted in upregulated β-catenin activation and increased FSHR expression. CP21 also increased the expression of insulin receptor substrate 1 and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), as well as p-Akt2. CONCLUSIONS Women with obesity in IVF were associated with reduced FSHR expression and E2 production caused by a dysfunctional insulin pathway. Decreased FSHR expression in hGCs from women with obesity and insulin-treated KGN cells could be rescued by an inhibitor of GSK3β, which might be a potential target for the improvement of the impaired FSH-stimulation response in women with obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Xu
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Reproductive Medicine Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bao-Yi Huang
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Reproductive Medicine Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia-Hui Zhan
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Reproductive Medicine Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Man-Ting Liu
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Reproductive Medicine Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yang Fu
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Reproductive Medicine Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - You-Qiang Su
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qing-Yuan Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wei-Hua Wang
- Houston Fertility Institute/New Houston Health, Houston, Texas
| | - Dun-Jin Chen
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Reproductive Medicine Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian-Qiao Liu
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Reproductive Medicine Center of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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20
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Fostok SF, El-Sibai M, El-Sabban M, Talhouk RS. Gap Junctions and Wnt Signaling in the Mammary Gland: a Cross-Talk? J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia 2019; 24:17-38. [PMID: 30194659 DOI: 10.1007/s10911-018-9411-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexins (Cxs), the building blocks of gap junctions (GJs), exhibit spatiotemporal patterns of expression and regulate the development and differentiation of the mammary gland, acting via channel-dependent and channel-independent mechanisms. Impaired Cx expression and localization are reported in breast cancer, suggesting a tumor suppressive role for Cxs. The signaling events that mediate the role of GJs in the development and tumorigenesis of the mammary gland remain poorly identified. The Wnt pathways, encompassing the canonical or the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and the noncanonical β-catenin-independent pathway, also play important roles in those processes. Indeed, aberrant Wnt signaling is associated with breast cancer. Despite the coincident roles of Cxs and Wnt pathways, the cross-talk in the breast tissue is poorly defined, although this is reported in a number of other tissues. Our previous studies revealed a channel-independent role for Cx43 in inducing differentiation or suppressing tumorigenesis of mammary epithelial cells by acting as a negative regulator of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Here, we provide a brief overview of mammary gland development, with emphasis on the role of Cxs in development and tumorigenesis of this tissue. We also discuss the role of Wnt signaling in similar contexts, and review the literature illustrating interplay between Cxs and Wnt pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabreen F Fostok
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut (AUB), P.O. Box: 11-0236, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mirvat El-Sibai
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University (LAU), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Marwan El-Sabban
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut (AUB), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rabih S Talhouk
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut (AUB), P.O. Box: 11-0236, Beirut, Lebanon.
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21
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López C, Aguilar R, Nardocci G, Cereceda K, Vander Stelt K, Slebe JC, Montecino M, Concha II. Wnt/β-catenin signaling enhances transcription of the CX43 gene in murine Sertoli cells. J Cell Biochem 2018; 120:6753-6762. [PMID: 30417410 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.27973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Sertoli cells provide the nutritional and metabolic support for germ cells. Wnt/β-catenin signaling is important for the development of the seminiferous epithelium during embryonic age, although after birth this pathway is downregulated. Cx43 gene codes for a protein that is critical during testicular development. The Cx43 promoter contains TCF/β-catenin binding elements (TBEs) that contribute CX43 expression in different cell types and which may also be regulating the expression of this gene in Sertoli cells. In this study, we demonstrate that 42GPA9 Sertoli cells respond to treatments that result in accumulation of β-catenin within the nucleus and in upregulation of CX43 gene transcription. β-Catenin binds to TBEs located both upstream and downstream of the transcriptional start site (TSS). Luciferase reporter experiments revealed that TBEs located upstream of the TSS are necessary for β-catenin-mediated upregulation. Our results also indicate that the Wnt/β-catenin-dependent upregulation of the Cx43 gene in Sertoli cells is accompanied by changes in epigenetic parameters that may be directly contributing to generating a chromatin environment that facilitates the establishment of the transcriptional machinery at this promoter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila López
- Instituto de Bioquimíca y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Rodrigo Aguilar
- Center for Biomedical Research and FONDAP Center for Genome Regulation, Universidad Andrés Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | - Gino Nardocci
- Center for Biomedical Research and FONDAP Center for Genome Regulation, Universidad Andrés Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | - Karina Cereceda
- Instituto de Bioquimíca y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Karen Vander Stelt
- Instituto de Bioquimíca y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Juan Carlos Slebe
- Instituto de Bioquimíca y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Martin Montecino
- Center for Biomedical Research and FONDAP Center for Genome Regulation, Universidad Andrés Bello, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ilona I Concha
- Instituto de Bioquimíca y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
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22
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Impact of toxicant exposures on ovarian gap junctions. Reprod Toxicol 2018; 81:140-146. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.07.087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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Sorgen PL, Trease AJ, Spagnol G, Delmar M, Nielsen MS. Protein⁻Protein Interactions with Connexin 43: Regulation and Function. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E1428. [PMID: 29748463 PMCID: PMC5983787 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Revised: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Connexins are integral membrane building blocks that form gap junctions, enabling direct cytoplasmic exchange of ions and low-molecular-mass metabolites between adjacent cells. In the heart, gap junctions mediate the propagation of cardiac action potentials and the maintenance of a regular beating rhythm. A number of connexin interacting proteins have been described and are known gap junction regulators either through direct effects (e.g., kinases) or the formation of larger multifunctional complexes (e.g., cytoskeleton scaffold proteins). Most connexin partners can be categorized as either proteins promoting coupling by stimulating forward trafficking and channel opening or inhibiting coupling by inducing channel closure, internalization, and degradation. While some interactions have only been implied through co-localization using immunohistochemistry, others have been confirmed by biophysical methods that allow detection of a direct interaction. Our understanding of these interactions is, by far, most well developed for connexin 43 (Cx43) and the scope of this review is to summarize our current knowledge of their functional and regulatory roles. The significance of these interactions is further exemplified by demonstrating their importance at the intercalated disc, a major hub for Cx43 regulation and Cx43 mediated effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul L Sorgen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.
| | - Andrew J Trease
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.
| | - Gaelle Spagnol
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA.
| | - Mario Delmar
- Leon H Charney Division of Cardiology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA.
| | - Morten S Nielsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark.
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16p11.2 transcription factor MAZ is a dosage-sensitive regulator of genitourinary development. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2018; 115:E1849-E1858. [PMID: 29432158 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1716092115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Genitourinary (GU) birth defects are among the most common yet least studied congenital malformations. Congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUTs) have high morbidity and mortality rates and account for ∼30% of structural birth defects. Copy number variation (CNV) mapping revealed that 16p11.2 is a hotspot for GU development. The only gene covered collectively by all of the mapped GU-patient CNVs was MYC-associated zinc finger transcription factor (MAZ), and MAZ CNV frequency is enriched in nonsyndromic GU-abnormal patients. Knockdown of MAZ in HEK293 cells results in differential expression of several WNT morphogens required for normal GU development, including Wnt11 and Wnt4. MAZ knockdown also prevents efficient transition into S phase, affects transcription of cell-cycle regulators, and abrogates growth of human embryonic kidney cells. Murine Maz is ubiquitously expressed, and a CRISPR-Cas9 mouse model of Maz deletion results in perinatal lethality with survival rates dependent on Maz copy number. Homozygous loss of Maz results in high penetrance of CAKUTs, and Maz is haploinsufficient for normal bladder development. MAZ, once thought to be a simple housekeeping gene, encodes a dosage-sensitive transcription factor that regulates urogenital development and contributes to both nonsyndromic congenital malformations of the GU tract as well as the 16p11.2 phenotype.
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Bachelot A, Gilleron J, Meduri G, Guberto M, Dulon J, Boucherie S, Touraine P, Misrahi M. A common African variant of human connexin 37 is associated with Caucasian primary ovarian insufficiency and has a deleterious effect in vitro. Int J Mol Med 2018; 41:640-648. [PMID: 29207017 PMCID: PMC5752242 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2017.3257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Folliculogenesis requires communication between granulosa cells and oocytes, mediated by connexin-based gap junctions. Connexin 37 (Cx37)-deficient female mice are infertile. The present study assessed Cx37 deficiency in patients with primary ovarian insufficiency (POI). A candidate gene study was performed in patients and controls from the National Genotyping Center (Evry, France) including 58 Caucasian patients with idiopathic isolated POI and 142 Caucasian controls. Direct genomic sequencing of the coding regions of the GJA4 gene (encoding Cx37) was performed with the aim to identify a deleterious variant associated with POI and absent in ethnically matched controls. A single Cx37 variant absent in the control population was identified, namely a c.946G>A heterozygous substitution leading to a p.Gly316Ser variant that was present in two POI patients. This variant was absent in all Caucasian controls from various databases, and has been observed exclusively in African populations. This variant was identified to have a dominant negative effect in HeLa cells in vitro to alter connexon function (by 67.2±7.17%), as determined by Gap-fluorescence recovery after photobleaching. The alteration principally resulted from a decrease of cell surface connexons due to altered trafficking (by 47.73±8.59%). In marked contrast to this observation, a p.Pro258Ser variant frequent in all ethnic populations in databases had no functional effect in vitro. In conclusion, the present study reported on a Cx37 variant in two Caucasian POI patients, which was absent in control Caucasian populations, and which had a deleterious effect in vitro. It is therefore suggested that in the genetic context of the Caucasian population, this variant may contribute to POI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Bachelot
- AP-HP, Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Reference Center for Rare Endocrine Diseases of Growth, Reference Center for Rare Gynecological Pathologies
- University Pierre and Marie Curie, University Paris 6, F-75013 Paris
| | - Jerome Gilleron
- National Institute of Health and Medical Research INSERM U1065 - University of Nice-Sophia Antipolis, Mediterranean Center for Molecular Medicine C3M, F-06000 Nice
| | - Geri Meduri
- National Institute of Health and Medical Research INSERM U1195
| | - Mihelai Guberto
- University Paris-Sud, University Paris Saclay, Medical Faculty Paris-Sud, Bicêtre Hospital, F-94275 Le Kremlin Bicêtre
| | - Jerome Dulon
- AP-HP, Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Reference Center for Rare Endocrine Diseases of Growth, Reference Center for Rare Gynecological Pathologies
| | - Sylviane Boucherie
- National Institute of Health and Medical Research UMR-S 757 INSERM, University Paris-Sud, F-91400 Orsay, France
| | - Philippe Touraine
- AP-HP, Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Reference Center for Rare Endocrine Diseases of Growth, Reference Center for Rare Gynecological Pathologies
- University Pierre and Marie Curie, University Paris 6, F-75013 Paris
| | - Micheline Misrahi
- University Paris-Sud, University Paris Saclay, Medical Faculty Paris-Sud, Bicêtre Hospital, F-94275 Le Kremlin Bicêtre
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Tao H, Xiong Q, Zhang F, Zhang N, Liu Y, Suo X, Li X, Yang Q, Chen M. Circular RNA profiling reveals chi_circ_0008219 function as microRNA sponges in pre-ovulatory ovarian follicles of goats (Capra hircus). Genomics 2017; 110:S0888-7543(17)30129-5. [PMID: 29107014 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2017.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Revised: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a new class of non-coding RNAs in animals and are a novel target of non-coding RNA (ncRNA) regulation. The mechanism and function of circRNAs have been reported in some species and tissues. However, there is little available information on the functions of circRNAs in the goat reproductive system. In the present study, we deeply sequenced and analyzed circRNAs through bioinformatics to reveal the expression profiles, and predicted 13,950 circRNAs in the pre-ovulatory ovarian follicles of goats for the first time. Thirty-seven circRNAs were differentially expressed in the Boer goat compared with the Macheng black goat. The chi_circ_0008219 was involved in a vast circRNA-miRNA-mRNA co-expression network. Via a luciferase activity assay, chi_circ_0008219 is observed to sponge to 3 ovarian follicle-related miRNAs. These findings demonstrate that circRNAs have potential effects in the ovarian follicles of ewes and may represent a promising new research field in ovarian follicular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hu Tao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China
| | - Qi Xiong
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China
| | - Nian Zhang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China
| | - Xiaojun Suo
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China
| | - Xiaofeng Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China
| | - Qianping Yang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China
| | - Mingxin Chen
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Animal Embryo Engineering and Molecular Breeding, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Hubei, Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Wuhan 430064, China.
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27
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Defective Wnt3 expression by testicular Sertoli cells compromise male fertility. Cell Tissue Res 2017; 371:351-363. [PMID: 29064078 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-017-2698-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2016] [Accepted: 09/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Testicular Sertoli cells make a niche for the division and differentiation of germ cells. Sertoli cells respond to increased follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and testosterone (T) levels at the onset of puberty by producing paracrine factors which affect germ cells and trigger robust onset of spermatogenesis. Such paracrine support to germ cells is absent during infancy, despite Sertoli cells being exposed to high FSH and T within the infant testis. This situation is similar to certain cases of male idiopathic infertility where post-pubertal Sertoli cells fail to support germ cell division and differentiation in spite of endogenous or exogenous hormonal support. Defective Sertoli cells in such individuals may fail to express the full complement of their paracrine repertoire. Identification and supplementation with such factors may overcome Sertoli cells deficiencies and help trigger quantitatively and qualitatively normal differentiation of germ cells. To this end, we compared the transcriptome of FSH- and T-treated infant and pubertal monkey Sertoli cells by DNA microarray. Expression of Wnt3, a morphogen of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, was higher in pubertal Sertoli cells relative to infant Sertoli cells. Transgenic mice were generated by us in which Wnt3 expression was curtailed specifically in post-pubertal Sertoli cells by shRNA. Subfertility and oligozoospermia were noticed in such animals with low Wnt3 expression in post-pubertal Sertoli cells along with diminished expression of Connexin43, a gap-junctional molecule essential for germ cell development. We report that the FSH- and T-targetedf Wnt3 governs Sertoli cell-mediated regulation of spermatogenesis and hence is crucial for fertility.
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28
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Santos JD, Batista RI, Magalhães LC, Paula Jr. AR, Souza SS, Salamone DF, Bhat MH, Teixeira DI, Freitas VJ, Melo LM. Overexpression of hyaluronan synthase 2 and gonadotropin receptors in cumulus cells of goats subjected to one-shot eCG/FSH hormonal treatment for ovarian stimulation. Anim Reprod Sci 2016; 170:15-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2016.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Revised: 03/06/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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29
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Laird DW, Naus CC. Gerald M. Kidder - bridging the gap in cell and developmental biology. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2016; 50:1-3. [PMID: 26940063 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2016.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dale W Laird
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Christian C Naus
- Department of Cellular & Physiological Sciences, Life Science Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
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30
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Hernandez Gifford JA. The role of WNT signaling in adult ovarian folliculogenesis. Reproduction 2015; 150:R137-48. [PMID: 26130815 DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2014] [Accepted: 06/29/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Wingless-type mouse mammary tumor virus integration site (WNT) signaling molecules are locally secreted glycoproteins that play important role in regulation of ovarian follicle maturation and steroid production. Components of the WNT signaling pathway have been demonstrated to impact reproductive functions, including embryonic development of the sex organs and regulation of follicle maturation controlling steroidogenesis in the postnatal ovary. Emerging evidence underscores the complexity of WNT signaling molecules in regulation of dynamic changes that occur in the ovary during the reproductive cycle. While disruption in the WNT signaling cascade has been recognized to have deleterious consequences to normal sexual development, more recent studies are beginning to highlight the importance of these molecules in adult ovarian function related to follicle development, corpus luteum formation, steroid production and fertility. Hormonal regulation of WNT genes and expression of members of the WNT signaling network, including WNT ligands, frizzled receptors, and downstream signaling components that are expressed in the postnatal ovary at distinct stages of the estrous cycle suggest a crucial role in normal ovarian function. Similarly, FSH stimulation of T-cell factor-dependent gene expression requires input from β-catenin, a lynchpin molecule in canonical WNT signaling, further indicating β-catenin participation in regulation of follicle maturation. This review will focus on the multiple functions of WNT signaling in folliculogenesis in the adult ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Hernandez Gifford
- Department of Animal ScienceOklahoma State University, 114B Animal Science Building, Stillwater, Oklahoma 74078, USA
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31
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El-Hayek S, Clarke HJ. Follicle-Stimulating Hormone Increases Gap Junctional Communication Between Somatic and Germ-Line Follicular Compartments During Murine Oogenesis. Biol Reprod 2015; 93:47. [PMID: 26063870 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.129569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 06/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Germ cells develop in intimate contact and communication with somatic cells of the gonad. In female mammals, oocyte development depends crucially on gap junctions that couple it to the surrounding somatic granulosa cells of the follicle, yet the mechanisms that regulate this essential intercellular communication remain incompletely understood. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) drives the terminal stage of follicular development. We found that FSH increases the steady-state levels of mRNAs encoding the principal connexins that constitute gap junctions and cadherins that mediate cell attachment. This increase occurs both in granulosa cells, which express the FSH-receptor, and in oocytes, which do not. FSH also increased the number of transzonal projections that provide the sites of granulosa cell-oocyte contact. Consistent with increased connexin expression, FSH increased gap junctional communication between granulosa cells and between the oocyte and granulosa cells, and it accelerated oocyte development. These results demonstrate that FSH regulates communication between the female germ cell and its somatic microenvironment. We propose that FSH-regulated gap junctional communication ensures that differentiation processes occurring in distinct cellular compartments within the follicle are precisely coordinated to ensure production of a fertilizable egg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephany El-Hayek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Hugh J Clarke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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32
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Winterhager E, Kidder GM. Gap junction connexins in female reproductive organs: implications for women's reproductive health. Hum Reprod Update 2015; 21:340-52. [PMID: 25667189 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmv007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Accepted: 01/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Connexins comprise a family of ~20 proteins that form intercellular membrane channels (gap junction channels) providing a direct route for metabolites and signalling molecules to pass between cells. This review provides a critical analysis of the evidence for essential roles of individual connexins in female reproductive function, highlighting implications for women's reproductive health. METHODS No systematic review has been carried out. Published literature from the past 35 years was surveyed for research related to connexin involvement in development and function of the female reproductive system. Because of the demonstrated utility of genetic manipulation for elucidating connexin functions in various organs, much of the cited information comes from research with genetically modified mice. In some cases, a distinction is drawn between connexin functions clearly related to the formation of gap junction channels and those possibly linked to non-channel roles. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Based on work with mice, several connexins are known to be required for female reproductive functions. Loss of connexin43 (CX43) causes an oocyte deficiency, and follicles lacking or expressing less CX43 in granulosa cells exhibit reduced growth, impairing fertility. CX43 is also expressed in human cumulus cells and, in the context of IVF, has been correlated with pregnancy outcome, suggesting that this connexin may be a determinant of oocyte and embryo quality in women. Loss of CX37, which exclusively connects oocytes with granulosa cells in the mouse, caused oocytes to cease growing without acquiring meiotic competence. Blocking of CX26 channels in the uterine epithelium disrupted implantation whereas loss or reduction of CX43 expression in the uterine stroma impaired decidualization and vascularization in mouse and human. Several connexins are important in placentation and, in the human, CX43 is a key regulator of the fusogenic pathway from the cytotrophoblast to the syncytiotrophoblast, ensuring placental growth. CX40, which characterizes the extravillous trophoblast (EVT), supports proliferation of the proximal EVTs while preventing them from differentiating into the invasive pathway. Furthermore, women with recurrent early pregnancy loss as well as those with endometriosis exhibit reduced levels of CX43 in their decidua. The antimalaria drug mefloquine, which blocks gap junction function, is responsible for increased risk of early pregnancy loss and stillbirth, probably due to inhibition of intercellular communication in the decidua or between trophoblast layers followed by an impairment of placental growth. Gap junctions also play a critical role in regulating uterine blood flow, contributing to the adaptive response to pregnancy. Given that reproductive impairment can result from connexin mutations in mice, it is advised that women suffering from somatic disease symptoms associated with connexin gene mutations be additionally tested for impacts on reproductive function. Better knowledge of these essential connexin functions in human female reproductive organs is important for safeguarding women's reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Winterhager
- Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, University Clinics, 45211 Essen, Germany
| | - Gerald M Kidder
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario and Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario N6C 2V5, Canada
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33
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Pan H, Cui H, Liu S, Qian Y, Wu H, Li L, Guan Y, Guan X, Zhang L, Fan HY, Ma Y, Li R, Liu M, Li D. Lgr4 gene regulates corpus luteum maturation through modulation of the WNT-mediated EGFR-ERK signaling pathway. Endocrinology 2014; 155:3624-37. [PMID: 24877628 DOI: 10.1210/en.2013-2183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Luteal-phase insufficiency is one of the major causes of female infertility, but the molecular mechanisms are still largely unknown. Here we found that disruption of Lgr4/Gpr48, the newly identified receptor for R-spondins, greatly reduced female fertility in mice. The expression of Lgr4 was induced specifically in granulosa-lutein cells during luteinization. In Lgr4-deficient female mice, the estrous cycle was prolonged and serum progesterone levels were dramatically downregulated. In Lgr4(-/-) corpora lutea, the expression of key enzymes for steroidogenesis as well as common luteal marker genes was significantly decreased. Additionally, the activity of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-ERK signaling was attenuated in Lgr4(-/-) granulosa-lutein cells. We found that the maturation of Lgr4(-/-) cells was impaired in cultured primary granulosa cells, but the defect was partially rescued by reactivation of EGFR signaling by heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor treatment. We found that the expression of wingless-type MMTV integration site family (WNT)/catenin (cadherin associated protein), beta 1 (CTNNB1) downstream targets, including matrix metalloproteinase 9, which is a critical matrix metalloproteinase for activation of EGF-like factors, was significantly downregulated in Lgr4(-/-) ovaries. Matrix metalloproteinase 9 inhibitor treatment attenuated human chorionic gonadotropin- but not heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor-induced ERK activation and luteinization in primary granulosa cells. Together, we report that Lgr4 modulates WNT-mediated EGFR-ERK signaling to facilitate corpus luteum maturation and ovarian steroidogenesis to maintain female reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjie Pan
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology (H.P., H.C., S.L., Y.Q., H.W., L.L., Y.G., X.G., L.Z., M.L., D.L.), Institute of Biomedical Sciences and School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China; Key Laboratory of Contraceptive Drugs and Devices of National Population and Family Planning Commission (H.P., R.L.), Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Shanghai 200032, China; Life Science Institute (H.-Y.F.), Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Research (Y.M.), Hainan Reproductive Medical Center, the Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou 570102, China; and The Institute of Biosciences and Technology (M.L.), Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Houston, Texas 77030
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Gupta PSP, Folger JK, Rajput SK, Lv L, Yao J, Ireland JJ, Smith GW. Regulation and regulatory role of WNT signaling in potentiating FSH action during bovine dominant follicle selection. PLoS One 2014; 9:e100201. [PMID: 24936794 PMCID: PMC4061082 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0100201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2014] [Accepted: 05/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Follicular development occurs in wave like patterns in monotocous species such as cattle and humans and is regulated by a complex interaction of gonadotropins with local intrafollicular regulatory molecules. To further elucidate potential mechanisms controlling dominant follicle selection, granulosa cell RNA harvested from F1 (largest) and F2 (second largest) follicles isolated at predeviation (PD) and onset of diameter deviation (OD) stages of the first follicular wave was subjected to preliminary RNA transcriptome analysis. Expression of numerous WNT system components was observed. Hence experiments were performed to test the hypothesis that WNT signaling modulates FSH action on granulosa cells during follicular waves. Abundance of mRNA for WNT pathway members was evaluated in granulosa cells harvested from follicles at emergence (EM), PD, OD and early dominance (ED) stages of the first follicular wave. In F1 follicles, abundance of CTNNB1 and DVL1 mRNAs was higher and AXIN2 mRNA was lower at ED versus EM stages and DVL1 and FZD6 mRNAs were higher and AXIN2 mRNA was lower in F1 versus F2 follicle at the ED stage. Bovine granulosa cells were treated in vitro with increasing doses of the WNT inhibitor IWR-1+/- maximal stimulatory dose of FSH. IWR-1 treatment blocked the FSH-induced increase in granulosa cell numbers and reduced the FSH-induced increase in estradiol. Granulosa cells were also cultured in the presence or absence of FSH +/- IWR-1 and hormonal regulation of mRNA for WNT pathway members and known FSH targets determined. FSH treatment increased CYP19A1, CCND2, CTNNB1, AXIN2 and FZD6 mRNAs and the stimulatory effect on CYP19A1 mRNA was reduced by IWR-1. In contrast, FSH reduced CARTPT mRNA and IWR-1 partially reversed the inhibitory effect of FSH. Results support temporal and hormonal regulation and a potential role for WNT signaling in potentiating FSH action during dominant follicle selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. S. P. Gupta
- Laboratory of Mammalian Reproductive Biology and Genomics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Joseph K. Folger
- Laboratory of Mammalian Reproductive Biology and Genomics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Sandeep K. Rajput
- Laboratory of Mammalian Reproductive Biology and Genomics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Lihua Lv
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi, China
| | - Jianbo Yao
- Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Genomics, Division of Animal and Nutritional Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, United States of America
| | - James J. Ireland
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | - George W. Smith
- Laboratory of Mammalian Reproductive Biology and Genomics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi, China
- * E-mail:
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