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Fraire-Zamora JJ, Sharma K, Ammar OF, Massarotti C, Ali ZE, Telfer EE, Williams S, Ata B, Liperis G. Mind the gap: deciphering the role of anti-Müllerian hormone in follicular development-from animal studies toward clinical application. Hum Reprod 2023:7131353. [PMID: 37075310 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kashish Sharma
- HealthPlus Fertility and Women's Health Centre, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Omar F Ammar
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Claudia Massarotti
- Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
- DINOGMI Department, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Zoya E Ali
- Research & Development Department, Hertility Health Limited, London, UK
| | - Evelyn E Telfer
- University of Edinburgh Institute of Cell Biology, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Suzannah Williams
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Baris Ata
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
- ART Fertility Clinics, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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Shen W, Wang L, Ma Y, Cao Y, Zhang X, Han Q, Wu S, Wu G. Association between BMP15 Gene Polymorphisms of Growth Traits and Litter Size in Qinghai Bamei Pigs. RUSS J GENET+ 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s1022795422080075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Tang T, Lin Q, Qin Y, Liang X, Guo Y, Cong P, Liu X, Chen Y, He Z. Effects of bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) knockdown on porcine testis morphology and spermatogenesis. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 32:999-1011. [PMID: 32693912 DOI: 10.1071/rd20056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) is a member of the transforming growth factor-β (TGFB) superfamily that plays an essential role in mammalian ovary development, oocyte maturation and litter size. However, little is known regarding the expression pattern and biological function of BMP15 in male gonads. In this study we established, for the first time, a transgenic pig model with BMP15 constitutively knocked down by short hairpin (sh) RNA. The transgenic boars were fertile, but sperm viability was decreased. Further analysis of the TGFB/SMAD pathway and markers of reproductive capacity, namely androgen receptor and protamine 2, failed to identify any differentially expressed genes. These results indicate that, in the pig, the biological function of BMP15 in the development of male gonads is not as crucial as in ovary development. However, the role of BMP15 in sperm viability requires further investigation. This study provides new insights into the role of BMP15 in male pig reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Qiyuan Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Yufeng Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Xinyu Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Yang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Peiqing Cong
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Xiaohong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Yaosheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China; and Corresponding authors. ;
| | - Zuyong He
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510006, PR China; and Corresponding authors. ;
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Polymorphism Detection of GDF9 Gene and Its Association with Litter Size in Luzhong Mutton Sheep ( Ovis aries). Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11020571. [PMID: 33671790 PMCID: PMC7926531 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary GDF9 and BMPR1B are two important reproduction genes. In this study, the whole coding region of GDF9 was sequenced, of which the mutations were detected in Luzhong mutton sheep. The results suggested that two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), g.41768501A > G and g.41768485 G > A in GDF9 gene were associated with litter size. The g.41768485 G > A is a missense mutation which is predicted to affect the tertiary structure of the protein. Thus, these two mutations may be potential effective genetic markers to improve the litter size in sheep. Abstract Litter size is one of the most important economic traits in sheep. GDF9 and BMPR1B are major genes affecting the litter size of sheep. In this study, the whole coding region of GDF9 was sequenced and all the SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) were determined in Luzhong mutton ewes. The FecB mutation was genotyped using the Sequenom MassARRAY®SNP assay technology. Then, the association analyses between polymorphic loci of GDF9 gene, FecB, and litter size were performed using a general linear model procedure. The results showed that eight SNPs were detected in GDF9 of Luzhong mutton sheep, including one novel mutation (g.41769606 T > G). The g.41768501A > G, g.41768485 G > A in GDF9 and FecB were significantly associated with litter size in Luzhong mutton ewes. The g.41768485 G > A is a missense mutation in the mature GDF9 protein region and is predicted to affect the tertiary structure of the protein. The results preliminarily demonstrated that GDF9 was a major gene affecting the fecundity of Luzhong mutton sheep and the two loci g.41768501A > G and g.41768485 G > A may be potential genetic markers for improving litter size.
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Shi X, Tang T, Lin Q, Liu H, Qin Y, Liang X, Cong P, Mo D, Liu X, Chen Y, He Z. Efficient generation of bone morphogenetic protein 15-edited Yorkshire pigs using CRISPR/Cas9†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:1054-1068. [PMID: 32761111 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Revised: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15), a member of the transforming growth factor beta superfamily, plays an essential role in ovarian follicular development in mono-ovulatory mammalian species. Studies using a biallelic knockout mouse model revealed that BMP15 potentially has just a minimal impact on female fertility and ovarian follicular development in polyovulatory species. In contrast, our previous study demonstrated that in vivo knockdown of BMP15 significantly affected porcine female fertility, as evidenced by the dysplastic ovaries containing significantly decreased numbers of follicles and an increased number of abnormal follicles. This finding implied that BMP15 plays an important role in the regulation of female fertility and ovarian follicular development in polyovulatory species. To further investigate the regulatory role of BMP15 in porcine ovarian and follicular development, here, we describe the efficient generation of BMP15-edited Yorkshire pigs using CRISPR/Cas9. Using artificial insemination experiments, we found that the biallelically edited gilts were all infertile, regardless of different genotypes. One monoallelically edited gilt #4 (Δ66 bp/WT) was fertile and could deliver offspring with a litter size comparable to that of wild-type gilts. Further analysis established that the infertility of biallelically edited gilts was caused by the arrest of follicular development at preantral stages, with formation of numerous structurally abnormal follicles, resulting in streaky ovaries and the absence of obvious estrous cycles. Our results strongly suggest that the role of BMP15 in nonrodent polyovulatory species may be as important as that in mono-ovulatory species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Tao Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Qiyuan Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Hongbo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yufeng Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Xinyu Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Peiqing Cong
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Delin Mo
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Xiaohong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yaosheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Zuyong He
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
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6
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Novel Variants in GDF9 Gene Affect Promoter Activity and Litter Size in Mongolia Sheep. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11040375. [PMID: 32235645 PMCID: PMC7230991 DOI: 10.3390/genes11040375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Litter size is an economically important trait in sheep breeding. The objectives of this study were as follows: (1) to ascertain if any of the 19 known variants in the BMPRIB, BMP15, and GDF9 genes are present and associated with the litter size of Mongolia sheep; (2) to identify novel variants in GDF9 and perform association analysis; and (3) to validate the effects of these GDF9 promoter variants on the activity of the gene. The results of the 19 known variants showed that the FecBB affected the litter size of Mongolia sheep (p < 0.001). The association analysis results of novel variants showed that the g.46544883A>G (GenBank accession: NC_040256, the same below) in the 3' untranslated region (3' UTR), the c.1040T>C (Phe347Ser) in the exon 2, and the g.46547859C>T SNP in the promotor of GDF9 were significantly associated with litter size of Mongolia ewes (p < 0.01, p < 0.05, and p < 0.001, respectively). In addition, the GDF9 promoter activity analysis showed that the C allele at the -332 position (g.46547859C>T) could decrease luciferase activity compared with the T allele (p < 0.01). Our findings may facilitate effective marker-assisted selection to increase litter size in Mongolia sheep populations, as well as bring new insights into GDF9 expression.
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Dolebo AT, Khayatzadeh N, Melesse A, Wragg D, Rekik M, Haile A, Rischkowsky B, Rothschild MF, Mwacharo JM. Genome-wide scans identify known and novel regions associated with prolificacy and reproduction traits in a sub-Saharan African indigenous sheep (Ovis aries). Mamm Genome 2019; 30:339-352. [PMID: 31758253 PMCID: PMC6884434 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-019-09820-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Maximizing the number of offspring born per female is a key functionality trait in commercial- and/or subsistence-oriented livestock enterprises. Although the number of offspring born is closely associated with female fertility and reproductive success, the genetic control of these traits remains poorly understood in sub-Saharan Africa livestock. Using selection signature analysis performed on Ovine HD BeadChip data from the prolific Bonga sheep in Ethiopia, 41 candidate regions under selection were identified. The analysis revealed one strong selection signature on a candidate region on chromosome X spanning BMP15, suggesting this to be the primary candidate prolificacy gene in the breed. The analysis also identified several candidate regions spanning genes not reported before in prolific sheep but underlying fertility and reproduction in other species. The genes associated with female reproduction traits included SPOCK1 (age at first oestrus), GPR173 (mediator of ovarian cyclicity), HB-EGF (signalling early pregnancy success) and SMARCAL1 and HMGN3a (regulate gene expression during embryogenesis). The genes involved in male reproduction were FOXJ1 (sperm function and successful fertilization) and NME5 (spermatogenesis). We also observed genes such as PKD2L2, MAGED1 and KDM3B, which have been associated with diverse fertility traits in both sexes of other species. The results confirm the complexity of the genetic mechanisms underlying reproduction while suggesting that prolificacy in the Bonga sheep, and possibly African indigenous sheep is partly under the control of BMP15 while other genes that enhance male and female fertility are essential for reproductive fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asrat Tera Dolebo
- Southern Agricultural Research Institute (SARI), P.O. Box 06, Hawassa, Ethiopia
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, Hawassa University, P.O Box 5, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Negar Khayatzadeh
- Department of Sustainable Agricultural Systems, Division of Livestock Sciences, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU), Gregor-Mendel-Strasse, 1180, Vienna, Austria
| | - Aberra Melesse
- Department of Animal and Range Sciences, Hawassa University, P.O Box 5, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - David Wragg
- Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health, The Roslin Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Mourad Rekik
- Small Ruminant Genomics, International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), P.O. Box 5689, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Aynalem Haile
- Small Ruminant Genomics, International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), P.O. Box 5689, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Barbara Rischkowsky
- Small Ruminant Genomics, International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), P.O. Box 5689, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Max F Rothschild
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, 2255 Kildee Hall, Ames, IA, 50011-3150, USA
| | - Joram M Mwacharo
- Small Ruminant Genomics, International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), P.O. Box 5689, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
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Qin Y, Tang T, Li W, Liu Z, Yang X, Shi X, Sun G, Liu X, Wang M, Liang X, Cong P, Mo D, Liu X, Chen Y, He Z. Bone Morphogenetic Protein 15 Knockdown Inhibits Porcine Ovarian Follicular Development and Ovulation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:286. [PMID: 31803742 PMCID: PMC6877722 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) is strongly associated with animal reproduction and woman reproductive disease. As a multifunctional oocyte-specific secret factor, BMP15 controls female fertility and follicular development in both species-specific and dosage-sensitive manners. Previous studies found that BMP15 played a critical role in follicular development and ovulation rate in mono-ovulatory mammalian species, especially in sheep and human, but study on knockout mouse model implied that BMP15 possibly has minimal impact on female fertility of poly-ovulatory species. However, this needs to be validated in other poly-ovulatory species. To investigate the regulatory role of BMP15 on porcine female fertility, we generated a BMP15-knockdown pig model through somatic nuclear transfer technology. The BMP15-knockdown gilts showed markedly reduced fertility accompanied by phenotype of dysplastic ovaries containing significantly declined number of follicles, increased number of abnormal follicles, and abnormally enlarged antral follicles resulting in disordered ovulation, which is remarkably different from the unchanged fertility observed in BMP15 knockout mice. Molecular and transcriptome analysis revealed that the knockdown of BMP15 significantly affected both granulosa cells (GCs) and oocytes development, including suppression of cell proliferation, differentiation, and follicle stimulating hormone receptor (Fshr) expression, leading to premature luteinization and reduced estradiol (E2) production in GCs, and simultaneously decreased quality and meiotic maturation of oocyte. Our results provide in vivo evidence of the essential role of BMP15 in porcine ovarian and follicular development, and new insight into the complicated regulatory function of BMP15 in female fertility of poly-ovulatory species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufeng Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tao Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiguo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoliang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xuan Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guanjie Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaofeng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinyu Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peiqing Cong
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Delin Mo
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaohong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yaosheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zuyong He
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Hobeika E, Armouti M, Kala H, Fierro MA, Winston NJ, Scoccia B, Zamah AM, Stocco C. Oocyte-Secreted Factors Synergize With FSH to Promote Aromatase Expression in Primary Human Cumulus Cells. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2019; 104:1667-1676. [PMID: 30541132 PMCID: PMC6441017 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2018-01705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT The role of growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) on aromatase regulation is poorly understood in humans. OBJECTIVE Determine GDF9 and BMP15 effects on FSH stimulation of estradiol production in primary human cumulus granulosa cells (GCs). We hypothesized that the combination of GDF9 and BMP15 potentiates FSH-induced aromatase expression. DESIGN Primary human cumulus GCs in culture. SETTING University infertility center. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS GCs of 60 women undergoing in vitro fertilization were collected. INTERVENTIONS Cells were treated with GDF9 and/or BMP15 (GB) in the presence or absence of FSH, dibutyryl cAMP, or SMAD inhibitors. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Promoter activity, mRNA, protein, and estradiol levels were quantified. RESULTS FSH and GB treatment increased CYP19A1 promoter activity, mRNA, and protein levels as well as estradiol when compared with cells treated with FSH only. GB treatment potentiated cAMP stimulation of aromatase and IGF2 stimulation by FSH. GB effects were inhibited by SMAD3 inhibitors and IGF1 receptor inhibitors. GB, but not FSH, stimulates SMAD3 phosphorylation. CONCLUSION The combination of GDF9 and BMP15 potently stimulates the effect of FSH and cAMP on CYP19a1 promoter activity and mRNA/protein levels. These effects translate into an increase in estradiol production. This potentiation seems to occur through activation of the SMAD2/3 and SMAD3 signaling pathway and involves, at least in part, the effect of the IGF system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elie Hobeika
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Marah Armouti
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Hamsini Kala
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Michele A Fierro
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Nicola J Winston
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Bert Scoccia
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Alberuni M Zamah
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Carlos Stocco
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: Carlos Stocco, PhD, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, 835 South Wolcott Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60612. E-mail:
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Camaioni A, Klinger FG, Campagnolo L, Salustri A. The Influence of Pentraxin 3 on the Ovarian Function and Its Impact on Fertility. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2808. [PMID: 30555480 PMCID: PMC6283082 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicular development is a highly coordinated process that in humans takes more than 6 months. Pituitary gonadotropins and a variety of locally produced growth factors and cytokines are involved in determining a precise sequence of changes in cell metabolism, proliferation, vascularization, and matrix remodeling in order to obtain a follicle with full ovulatory and steroidogenic capability. A low-grade inflammation can alter such processes leading to premature arrest of follicular growth and female reproductive failure. On the other hand, factors that are involved in inflammatory response as well as in innate immunity are physiologically upregulated in the follicle at the final stage of maturation and play an essential role in ovulation and fertilization. The generation of pentraxin 3 (PTX3) deficient mice provided the first evidence that this humoral pattern recognition molecule of the innate immunity has a non-redundant role in female fertility. The expression, localization, and molecular interactions of PTX3 in the periovulatory follicle have been extensively studied in the last 10 years. In this review, we summarize findings demonstrating that PTX3 is synthesized before ovulation by cells surrounding the oocyte and actively participates in the organization of the hyaluronan-rich provisional matrix required for successful fertilization. Data in humans tend to confirm these findings, indicating PTX3 as a biomarker of oocyte quality. Moreover, we discuss the emerging evidence that in humans altered PTX3 systemic levels, determined by genetic variations and/or low-grade chronic inflammation, can also impact the growth and development of the follicle and affect the incidence of ovarian disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Camaioni
- Histology and Embryology Section, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome "Tor Vergata," Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Gioia Klinger
- Histology and Embryology Section, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome "Tor Vergata," Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Campagnolo
- Histology and Embryology Section, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome "Tor Vergata," Rome, Italy
| | - Antonietta Salustri
- Histology and Embryology Section, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome "Tor Vergata," Rome, Italy
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Tripathy M, Priyam M, Rai U. Repertoire of bone morphogenetic proteins and growth/differentiation factors in ovary of the Indian wall lizard (Hemidactylus flaviviridis) with emphasis on differential expression and gonadotropic regulation of bmp15 and gdf9. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2017; 253:13-24. [PMID: 28837789 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2017.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Revised: 07/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Analysis of ovarian transcriptome of Indian wall lizard demonstrates the existence of several bone morphogenetic proteins (bmp1, 2, 3, 3b, 7, 8, 15) and growth/differentiation factors (gdf5, 9) for the first time in reptilian ovary. The characterization of putative full-length/partial protein sequences of BMPs (BMP2, 3, 3b, 7, 15) and GDF9 showed high homology of their TGF-β domain with that of other vertebrates while BMP1 bore homology to zinc-dependent metalloprotease. Phylogenetic analyses showed clustering of BMPs and GDF9 from wall lizards with that of squamates lying in close proximity to chelonia, crocodilia and aves. This study also correlates the expression of ovarian bmp15 and gdf9 with folliculogenesis. Level of bmp15 dramatically increased with the onset of follicular growth in early recrudescence and attained peak during late recrudescence whereas gdf9 sharply decreased during recrudescence as compared to regression. Nonetheless, expression of these growth factors decreased appreciably with the formation of vitellogenic follicle during breeding phase. Ovarian expression of bmp15 and gdf9 appeared to be regulated by gonadotropin as bmp15 considerably increased while gdf9 decreased in parallel to follicular development after administration of 3 injections of FSH. Expression of both the growth factors declined with the prolongation of treatment that led to formation of early/late vitellogenic follicle. Our in vitro study revealed stimulatory effect of FSH on expression of bmp15 and gdf9 in early growing, previtellogenic and early vitellogenic follicles. In light of in vitro results, FSH-induced in vivo decline in gene expression seems to be due to some other FSH-induced factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamta Tripathy
- Comparative Immunoendocrinology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Manisha Priyam
- Comparative Immunoendocrinology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India
| | - Umesh Rai
- Comparative Immunoendocrinology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Delhi, Delhi 110007, India.
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12
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Convissar S, Armouti M, Fierro MA, Winston NJ, Scoccia H, Zamah AM, Stocco C. Regulation of AMH by oocyte-specific growth factors in human primary cumulus cells. Reproduction 2017; 154:745-753. [PMID: 28874516 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Revised: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The regulation of AMH production by follicular cells is poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to determine the role of the oocyte-secreted factors, growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15), on AMH production in primary human cumulus cells. Cumulus cells from IVF patients were cultured with a combination of GDF9, BMP15, recombinant FSH and specific signaling inhibitors. Stimulation with GDF9 or BMP15 separately had no significant effect on AMH mRNA levels. In contrast, simultaneous stimulation with GDF9 and BMP15 (G + B) resulted in a significant increase in AMH mRNA expression. Increasing concentration of G + B (0.6, 2.5, 5 and 10 ng/mL) stimulated AMH in a dose-dependent manner, showing a maximal effect at 5 ng/mL. Western blot analyses revealed an average 16-fold increase in AMH protein levels in cells treated with G + B when compared to controls. FSH co-treatment decreased the stimulation of AMH expression by G + B. The stimulatory effect of G + B on the expression of AMH was significantly decreased by inhibitors of the SMAD2/3 signaling pathway. These findings show for the first time that AMH production is regulated by oocyte-secreted factors in primary human cumulus cells. Moreover, our novel findings establish that the combination of GDF9 + BMP15 potently stimulates AMH expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Convissar
- Department of Physiology and BiophysicsThe University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Marah Armouti
- Department of Physiology and BiophysicsThe University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Michelle A Fierro
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and InfertilityDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Nicola J Winston
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and InfertilityDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Humberto Scoccia
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and InfertilityDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - A Musa Zamah
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and InfertilityDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Carlos Stocco
- Department of Physiology and BiophysicsThe University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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13
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Heath DA, Pitman JL, McNatty KP. Molecular forms of ruminant BMP15 and GDF9 and putative interactions with receptors. Reproduction 2017; 154:521-534. [PMID: 28733348 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Revised: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Bone morphogenetic factor 15 (BMP15) and growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) are oocyte-secreted factors with demonstrable effects on ovarian follicular development and ovulation rate. However, the molecular forms of BMP15 and GDF9 produced by oocytes remain unclear. The aims herein, using Western blotting (WB) procedures with specific monoclonal antibodies (mabs), were to identify the molecular forms of BMP15 and GDF9 synthesised and secreted by isolated ovine (o) and bovine (b) oocytes in vitro The mabs were known to recognise the biological forms of BMP15 or GDF9 since they had previously been shown to inhibit their bioactivities in vitro and in vivo Using recombinant variants of oBMP15 and oGDF9, including a cysteine mutant form of oBMP15 (S356C) and a human (h) BMP15:GDF9 heterodimer (cumulin), it was established that the mabs were able to identify monomeric, dimeric, promature and higher-molecular-weight forms of BMP15 and GDF9 and cumulin (GDF9 mab only). After using non-reducing, reducing and reducing + cross-linking conditions, the major oocyte-secreted forms of o and b BMP15 and GDF9 were the cleaved and uncleaved monomeric forms of the promature proteins. There was no evidence for dimeric or heterodimeric forms of either mature BMP15 or GDF9. From in silico modelling studies using transforming growth factor beta (TGFB), activin or BMP crystal templates, and both present and previously published data, a model is proposed to illustrate how the monomeric forms of BMP15 and GDF9 may interact with their type II and type I cell-surface receptors to initiate the synergistic actions of these growth factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derek A Heath
- School of Biological SciencesVictoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Janet L Pitman
- School of Biological SciencesVictoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
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14
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Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) signaling in animal reproductive system development and function. Dev Biol 2017; 427:258-269. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2017.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2016] [Revised: 03/02/2017] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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15
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Ventura-López C, Galindo-Torres PE, Arcos FG, Galindo-Sánchez C, Racotta IS, Escobedo-Fregoso C, Llera-Herrera R, Ibarra AM. Transcriptomic information from Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) ovary and eyestalk, and expression patterns for genes putatively involved in the reproductive process. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2017; 246:164-182. [PMID: 27964922 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2016.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2016] [Revised: 12/07/2016] [Accepted: 12/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The increased use of massive sequencing technologies has enabled the identification of several genes known to be involved in different mechanisms associated with reproduction that so far have only been studied in vertebrates and other model invertebrate species. In order to further investigate the genes involved in Litopenaeus vannamei reproduction, cDNA and SSH libraries derived from female eyestalk and gonad were produced, allowing the identification of expressed sequences tags (ESTs) that potentially have a role in the regulation of gonadal maturation. In the present study, different transcripts involved in reproduction were identified and a number of them were characterized as full-length. These transcripts were evaluated in males and females in order to establish their tissue expression profiles during developmental stages (juvenile, subadult and adult), and in the case of females, their possible association with gonad maturation was assessed through expression analysis of vitellogenin. The results indicated that the expression of vitellogenin receptor (vtgr) and minichromosome maintenance (mcm) family members in the female gonad suggest an important role during previtellogenesis. Additionally, the expression profiles of genes such as famet, igfbp and gpcr in brain tissues suggest an interaction between the insulin/insulin-like growth factor signaling pathway (IIS) and methyl farnesoate (MF) biosynthesis for control of reproduction. Furthermore, the specific expression pattern of farnesoic acid O-methyltransferase suggests that final synthesis of MF is carried out in different target tissues, where it is regulated by esterase enzymes under a tissue-specific hormonal control. Finally, the presence of a vertebrate type steroid receptor in hepatopancreas and intestine besides being highly expressed in female gonads, suggest a role of that receptor during sexual maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Ventura-López
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste, S.C. (CIBNOR), Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional No.195, Col. Playa Palo de Santa Rita, La Paz, Baja California Sur 23096, Mexico.
| | - Pavel E Galindo-Torres
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste, S.C. (CIBNOR), Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional No.195, Col. Playa Palo de Santa Rita, La Paz, Baja California Sur 23096, Mexico.
| | - Fabiola G Arcos
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste, S.C. (CIBNOR), Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional No.195, Col. Playa Palo de Santa Rita, La Paz, Baja California Sur 23096, Mexico.
| | - Clara Galindo-Sánchez
- Centro de Investigación Científica y de Educación Superior de Ensenada (CICESE), Carretera Ensenada-Tijuana No. 3918, Zona Playitas, Ensenada, Baja California CP 22860, Mexico.
| | - Ilie S Racotta
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste, S.C. (CIBNOR), Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional No.195, Col. Playa Palo de Santa Rita, La Paz, Baja California Sur 23096, Mexico.
| | - Cristina Escobedo-Fregoso
- Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONACYT) - Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste, S.C. (CIBNOR), Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional 195, Col. Playa Palo de Santa Rita, La Paz, Baja California Sur C.P. 23096, Mexico.
| | - Raúl Llera-Herrera
- Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONACYT) - Centro de Investigación en Alimentación y Desarrollo A.C. (CIAD) Unidad Mazatlán, Av. Sábalo-Cerritos s/n. Estero del Yugo, Mazatlán, Sinaloa 82000, Mexico.
| | - Ana M Ibarra
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste, S.C. (CIBNOR), Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional No.195, Col. Playa Palo de Santa Rita, La Paz, Baja California Sur 23096, Mexico.
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16
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Estienne A, Lahoz B, Jarrier P, Bodin L, Folch J, Alabart JL, Fabre S, Monniaux D. BMP15 regulates the inhibin/activin system independently of ovulation rate control in sheep. Reproduction 2017; 153:395-404. [PMID: 28069901 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2016] [Revised: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Polymorphisms in the gene encoding bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) have been associated with multiple ovulations in sheep. As BMP15 regulates inhibin expression in rodents, we assumed that the ovarian inhibin/activin system could mediate part of the effect of BMP15 mutations in the regulation of ovulation rate in sheep. To answer this question, we have studied the effects of two natural loss-of-function mutations of BMP15 on the expression of components of this system. The FecXR and the FecXGr mutations, when present respectively in Rasa Aragonesa ewes at the heterozygous state and in Grivette ewes at the homozygous state, were associated with a twofold increase in ovulation rate. There were only small differences between mutant and wild-type ewes for mRNA expression of INHA, INHBA, ACVR1B, ACVR2A, FST or TGFBR3 in granulosa cells and inhibin A or activin A concentrations in follicular fluid. Moreover, the effects of mutations differed between breeds. In cultures of granulosa cells from wild-type ewes, BMP15, acting alone or in synergy with GDF9, stimulated INHA, INHBA and FST expression, but inhibited the expression of TGFBR3 Activin A did not affect INHBA expression, but inhibited the expression of ACVR2A also. The complexity of the inhibin/activin system, including positive and antagonistic elements, and the differential regulation of these elements by BMP15 and activin can explain that the effects of BMP15 mutations differ when present in different genetic backgrounds. In conclusion, the ovarian inhibin/activin system is unlikely to participate in the increase of ovulation rate associated with BMP15 mutations in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Estienne
- UMR85 PRC, INRA, CNRS, IFCEUniversité de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Belén Lahoz
- Unidad de Producción y Sanidad AnimalCentro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria de Aragón (CITA), Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), Zaragoza, España
| | - Peggy Jarrier
- UMR85 PRC, INRA, CNRS, IFCEUniversité de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Loys Bodin
- GenPhySEUniversité de Toulouse, INRA, INPT, ENVT, Castanet Tolosan, France
| | - José Folch
- Unidad de Producción y Sanidad AnimalCentro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria de Aragón (CITA), Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), Zaragoza, España
| | - José-Luis Alabart
- Unidad de Producción y Sanidad AnimalCentro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria de Aragón (CITA), Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), Zaragoza, España
| | - Stéphane Fabre
- GenPhySEUniversité de Toulouse, INRA, INPT, ENVT, Castanet Tolosan, France
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17
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Bartlewski PM, Sohal J, Paravinja V, Baby T, Oliveira MEF, Murawski M, Schwarz T, Zieba DA, Keisler DH. Is progesterone the key regulatory factor behind ovulation rate in sheep? Domest Anim Endocrinol 2017; 58:30-38. [PMID: 27639459 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2016.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2016] [Revised: 05/27/2016] [Accepted: 06/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian antral follicles in the ewe grow in an orderly succession, producing 3 to 4 waves per estrous cycle. In prolific sheep, some large antral follicles from the second-to-last wave of the estrous cycle are added to the ovulatory follicles emerging just before estrus to give a higher ovulation rate; it is feasible that regression of these follicles is prevented by an increase in serum concentrations of FSH or LH pulsatility at proestrus. Prolific sheep tend to have a shorter luteal phase than nonprolific ewes and there is a great deal of evidence that luteal progesterone (P4), in addition to regulating LH release, may govern the secretion of FSH heralding the emergence of follicular waves. The specific purpose of this study was to determine whether or not extending the duration of the luteal phase in prolific sheep to that typically seen in nonprolific breeds would alter the follicle wave dynamics and ovulation rate. In 2 separate experiments, exogenous P4 (7.5 mg per ewe intramuscularly) was administered on day 11 at PM and day 12 at AM (day 0 = first ovulation of the interovulatory interval studied) in moderately prolific Rideau Arcott × Polled Dorset ewes (experiment 1, n = 8) and highly prolific Olkuska ewes (experiment 2, n = 7; TRT), whereas the equinumerous groups of animals served as controls (CTR). Transrectal ovarian ultrasonography was performed daily, and jugular blood samples were drawn twice a day from day 9 until the next ovulation. Progesterone injections resulted in relatively uniform increments in serum P4 levels, but the mean duration of the interovulatory interval did not differ (P > 0.05) between TRT and CTR groups of ewes in either experiment. The mean ovulation rate post-treatment was 1.6 ± 0.2 vs 3.2 ± 0.4 (experiment 1, P < 0.001) and 3.2 ± 0.8 vs 4.0 ± 1.0 (experiment 2, P > 0.05) in TRT vs CTR, respectively. The number and percentage of ovulating follicles from the penultimate wave of the interovulatory interval studied was 0.25 ± 0.16 vs 1.75 ± 0.45 (P < 0.01) and 25.0 ± 16.4% vs 75.0 ± 16.4% (P < 0.05) in experiment 1, and 0.50 ± 0.30 vs 1.60 ± 0.40 (P < 0.05) and 13.8 ± 9.0% vs 53.4 ± 16.7% (P < 0.05) in experiment 2, for TRT vs CTR, respectively. In summary, administration of P4 at the end of diestrus decreased the incidence of ovulations from the penultimate wave of the estrous cycle in both the moderately and highly prolific strains of sheep, but it reduced the ovulation rate only in moderately prolific ewes.
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Affiliation(s)
- P M Bartlewski
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada.
| | - J Sohal
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - V Paravinja
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - T Baby
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - M E F Oliveira
- Department of Preventative Veterinary Medicine and Animal Reproduction, College of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - M Murawski
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Agricultural University of Kraków, Cracow, Poland
| | - T Schwarz
- Department of Swine and Small Animal Breeding, Agricultural University of Kraków, Cracow, Poland
| | - D A Zieba
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Agricultural University of Kraków, Cracow, Poland
| | - D H Keisler
- Animal Sciences Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
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18
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Ritter LJ, Sugimura S, Gilchrist RB. Oocyte induction of EGF responsiveness in somatic cells is associated with the acquisition of porcine oocyte developmental competence. Endocrinology 2015; 156:2299-312. [PMID: 25849729 DOI: 10.1210/en.2014-1884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Oocytes progressively acquire the competence to support embryo development as oogenesis proceeds with ovarian folliculogenesis. The objectives of this study were to investigate oocyte-secreted factor (OSF) participation in the development of somatic cell epidermal growth factor (EGF) responsiveness associated with oocyte developmental competence. A well-established porcine model was employed using oocytes from small (<4 mm) vs medium sized (>4 mm) antral follicles, representing low vs moderate developmental competence, respectively. Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were treated in vitro with inducers of oocyte maturation, and cumulus cell functions and oocyte developmental competence were assessed. COCs from small follicles responded to FSH but, unlike COCs from larger follicles, were incapable of responding to EGF family growth factors known to mediate oocyte maturation in vivo, exhibiting perturbed cumulus expansion and expression of associated transcripts (HAS2 and TNFAIP6). Low and moderate competence COCs expressed equivalent levels of EGF receptor (EGFR) mRNA; however, the former had less total EGFR protein leading to failed activation of phospho-EGFR and phospho-ERK1/2, despite equivalent total ERK1/2 protein levels. Native OSFs from moderate, but not from low, competence oocytes established EGF responsiveness in low competence COCs. Four candidate recombinant OSFs failed to mimic the actions of native OSFs in regulating cumulus expansion. Treatment with OSFs and EGF enhanced oocyte competence but only of the low competence COCs. These data suggest that developmental acquisition by the oocyte of capacity to regulate EGF responsiveness in the oocyte's somatic cells is a major milestone in the oocyte's developmental program and contributes to coordinated oocyte and somatic cell development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley J Ritter
- School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health and Robinson Research Institute (L.J.R., S.S., R.B.G.) Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence in Nanoscale BioPhotonics (L.J.R.), The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia; Institute of Agriculture (S.S.), Department of Biological Production, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan; and Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (R.B.G.), School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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