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Giaccari C, Cecere F, Argenziano L, Pagano A, Riccio A. New insights into oocyte cytoplasmic lattice-associated proteins. Trends Genet 2024:S0168-9525(24)00149-5. [PMID: 38955588 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2024.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Oocyte maturation and preimplantation embryo development are critical to successful pregnancy outcomes and the correct establishment and maintenance of genomic imprinting. Thanks to novel technologies and omics studies in human patients and mouse models, the importance of the proteins associated with the cytoplasmic lattices (CPLs), highly abundant structures found in the cytoplasm of mammalian oocytes and preimplantation embryos, in the maternal to zygotic transition is becoming increasingly evident. This review highlights the recent discoveries on the role of these proteins in protein storage and other oocyte cytoplasmic processes, epigenetic reprogramming, and zygotic genome activation (ZGA). A better comprehension of these events may significantly improve clinical diagnosis and pave the way for targeted interventions aiming to correct or mitigate female fertility issues and genomic imprinting disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Giaccari
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (DiSTABiF), Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli,' Caserta, Italy
| | - Francesco Cecere
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (DiSTABiF), Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli,' Caserta, Italy
| | - Lucia Argenziano
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (DiSTABiF), Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli,' Caserta, Italy
| | - Angela Pagano
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (DiSTABiF), Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli,' Caserta, Italy
| | - Andrea Riccio
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (DiSTABiF), Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli,' Caserta, Italy; Institute of Genetics and Biophysics (IGB) 'Adriano Buzzati-Traverso,' Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Naples, Italy.
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2
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Ducreux B, Patrat C, Trasler J, Fauque P. Transcriptomic integrity of human oocytes used in ARTs: technical and intrinsic factor effects. Hum Reprod Update 2024; 30:26-47. [PMID: 37697674 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Millions of children have been born throughout the world thanks to ARTs, the harmlessness of which has not yet been fully demonstrated. For years, efforts to evaluate the specific effects of ART have focused on the embryo; however, it is the oocyte quality that mainly dictates first and foremost the developmental potential of the future embryo. Ovarian stimulation, cryopreservation, and IVM are sometimes necessary steps to obtain a mature oocyte, but they could alter the appropriate expression of the oocyte genome. Additionally, it is likely that female infertility, environmental factors, and lifestyle have a significant influence on oocyte transcriptomic quality, which may interfere with the outcome of an ART attempt. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The objective of this review is to identify transcriptomic changes in the human oocyte caused by interventions specific to ART but also intrinsic factors such as age, reproductive health issues, and lifestyle. We also provide recommendations for future good practices to be conducted when attempting ART. SEARCH METHODS An in-depth literature search was performed on PubMed to identify studies assessing the human oocyte transcriptome following ART interventions, or in the context of maternal aging, suboptimal lifestyle, or reproductive health issues. OUTCOMES ART success is susceptible to external factors, maternal aging, lifestyle factors (smoking, BMI), and infertility due to endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome. Indeed, all of these are likely to increase oxidative stress and alter mitochondrial processes in the foreground. Concerning ART techniques themselves, there is evidence that different ovarian stimulation regimens shape the oocyte transcriptome. The perturbation of processes related to the mitochondrion, oxidative phosphorylation, and metabolism is observed with IVM. Cryopreservation might dysregulate genes belonging to transcriptional regulation, ubiquitination, cell cycle, and oocyte growth pathways. For other ART laboratory factors such as temperature, oxygen tension, air pollution, and light, the evidence remains scarce. Focusing on genes involved in chromatin-based processes such as DNA methylation, heterochromatin modulation, histone modification, and chromatin remodeling complexes, but also genomic imprinting, we observed systematic dysregulation of such genes either after ART intervention or lifestyle exposure, as well as due to internal factors such as maternal aging and reproductive diseases. Alteration in the expression of such epigenetic regulators may be a common mechanism linked to adverse oocyte environments, explaining global transcriptomic modifications. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Many IVF factors and additional external factors have the potential to impair oocyte transcriptomic integrity, which might not be innocuous for the developing embryo. Fortunately, it is likely that such dysregulations can be minimized by adapting ART protocols or reducing adverse exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bastien Ducreux
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comtés-Equipe Génétique des Anomalies du Développement (GAD) INSERM UMR1231, Dijon, France
| | - Catherine Patrat
- Université de Paris Cité, Faculty of Medicine, Inserm 1016, Paris, France
- Department of Reproductive Biology-CECOS, aphp.centre-Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Jacquetta Trasler
- Department of Pediatrics, McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Patricia Fauque
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comtés-Equipe Génétique des Anomalies du Développement (GAD) INSERM UMR1231, Dijon, France
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Laboratoire de Biologie de la Reproduction-CECOS, Dijon, France
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3
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Yu T, Zhang C, Song W, Zhao X, Cheng Y, Liu J, Su J. Single-cell RNA-seq and single-cell bisulfite-sequencing reveal insights into yak preimplantation embryogenesis. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:105562. [PMID: 38097189 PMCID: PMC10821408 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Extensive epigenetic reprogramming occurs during preimplantation embryonic development. However, the impact of DNA methylation in plateau yak preimplantation embryos and how epigenetic reprogramming contributes to transcriptional regulatory networks are unclear. In this study, we quantified gene expression and DNA methylation in oocytes and a series of yak embryos at different developmental stages and at single-cell resolution using single-cell bisulfite-sequencing and RNA-seq. We characterized embryonic genome activation and maternal transcript degradation and mapped epigenetic reprogramming events critical for embryonic development. Through cross-species transcriptome analysis, we identified 31 conserved maternal hub genes and 39 conserved zygotic hub genes, including SIN3A, PRC1, HDAC1/2, and HSPD1. Notably, by combining single-cell DNA methylation and transcriptome analysis, we identified 43 candidate methylation driver genes, such as AURKA, NUSAP1, CENPF, and PLK1, that may be associated with embryonic development. Finally, using functional approaches, we further determined that the epigenetic modifications associated with the histone deacetylases HDAC1/2 are essential for embryonic development and that the deubiquitinating enzyme USP7 may affect embryonic development by regulating DNA methylation. Our data represent an extensive resource on the transcriptional dynamics of yak embryonic development and DNA methylation remodeling, and provide new insights into strategies for the conservation of germplasm resources, as well as a better understanding of mammalian early embryonic development that can be applied to investigate the causes of early developmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Yu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Chengtu Zhang
- Academician Zhang Yong Innovation Center, Xining Animal Disease Control Center, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Weijia Song
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xinyi Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yuyao Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Jianmin Su
- Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
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4
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Zhang W, Zhang R, Wu L, Zhu C, Zhang C, Xu C, Zhao S, Liu X, Guo T, Lu Y, Gao Z, Yu X, Li L, Chen ZJ, Qin Y, Jiao X. NLRP14 deficiency causes female infertility with oocyte maturation defects and early embryonic arrest by impairing cytoplasmic UHRF1 abundance. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113531. [PMID: 38060382 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Oocyte maturation is vital to attain full competence required for fertilization and embryogenesis. NLRP14 is preferentially expressed in mammalian oocytes and early embryos. Yet, the role and molecular mechanism of NLRP14 in oocyte maturation and early embryogenesis are poorly understood, and whether NLRP14 deficiency accounts for human infertility is unknown. Here, we found that maternal loss of Nlrp14 resulted in sterility with oocyte maturation defects and early embryonic arrest (EEA). Nlrp14 ablation compromised oocyte competence due to impaired cytoplasmic and nuclear maturation. Importantly, we revealed that NLRP14 maintained cytoplasmic UHRF1 abundance by protecting it from proteasome-dependent degradation and anchoring it from nuclear translocation in the oocyte. Furthermore, we identified compound heterozygous NLRP14 variants in women affected by infertility with EEA, which interrupted the NLRP14-UHRF1 interaction and decreased UHRF1 levels. Our data demonstrate NLRP14 as a cytoplasm-specific regulator of UHRF1 during oocyte maturation, providing insights into genetic diagnosis for female infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenzhe Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Rongrong Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Ling Wu
- The Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Chendi Zhu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Chuanxin Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Chengpeng Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Stem Cell and Regeneration, Beijing Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Shidou Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Xinchen Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Ting Guo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Yueshuang Lu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Zheng Gao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510150, China
| | - Xiao Yu
- Key Laboratory Experimental Teratology of the Ministry of Education and Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Lei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Stem Cell and Regeneration, Beijing Institute of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Yingying Qin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China.
| | - Xue Jiao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China; Suzhou Research Institute, Shandong University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China.
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5
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Meng T, Guo J, Zhu L, Yin Y, Wang F, Han Z, Lei L, Ma X, Xue Y, Yue W, Nie X, Zhao Z, Zhang H, Sun S, Ouyang Y, Hou Y, Schatten H, Ju Z, Ou X, Wang Z, Wong CCL, Li Z, Sun Q. NLRP14 Safeguards Calcium Homeostasis via Regulating the K27 Ubiquitination of Nclx in Oocyte-to-Embryo Transition. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2301940. [PMID: 37493331 PMCID: PMC10520637 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202301940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
Sperm-induced Ca2+ rise is critical for driving oocyte activation and subsequent embryonic development, but little is known about how lasting Ca2+ oscillations are regulated. Here it is shown that NLRP14, a maternal effect factor, is essential for keeping Ca2+ oscillations and early embryonic development. Few embryos lacking maternal NLRP14 can develop beyond the 2-cell stage. The impaired developmental potential of Nlrp14-deficient oocytes is mainly caused by disrupted cytoplasmic function and calcium homeostasis due to altered mitochondrial distribution, morphology, and activity since the calcium oscillations and development of Nlrp14-deficient oocytes can be rescued by substitution of whole cytoplasm by spindle transfer. Proteomics analysis reveal that cytoplasmic UHRF1 (ubiquitin-like, containing PHD and RING finger domains 1) is significantly decreased in Nlrp14-deficient oocytes, and Uhrf1-deficient oocytes also show disrupted calcium homeostasis and developmental arrest. Strikingly, it is found that the mitochondrial Na+ /Ca2+ exchanger (NCLX) encoded by Slc8b1 is significantly decreased in the Nlrp14mNull oocyte. Mechanistically, NLRP14 interacts with the NCLX intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) domain and maintain its stability by regulating the K27-linked ubiquitination. Thus, the study reveals NLRP14 as a crucial player in calcium homeostasis that is important for early embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tie‐Gang Meng
- Fertility Preservation LabGuangdong‐Hong Kong Metabolism and Reproduction Joint LaboratoryReproductive Medicine CenterGuangdong Second Provincial General HospitalGuangzhou510317P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101P. R. China
| | - Jia‐Ni Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101P. R. China
| | - Liu Zhu
- School of Basic Medical SciencesPeking University Health Science CenterBeijing100191P. R. China
| | - Yike Yin
- Center for Growth Metabolism & AgingKey Laboratory of Bio‐Resource and Eco‐Environment of Ministry of EducationCollege of Life SciencesSichuan UniversityChengdu610017P. R. China
| | - Feng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101P. R. China
| | - Zhi‐Ming Han
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101P. R. China
| | - Lei Lei
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyHarbin Medical UniversityHarbin150088P. R. China
| | - Xue‐Shan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101P. R. China
| | - Yue Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101P. R. China
| | - Wei Yue
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101P. R. China
| | - Xiao‐Qing Nie
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101P. R. China
| | - Zheng‐Hui Zhao
- Fertility Preservation LabGuangdong‐Hong Kong Metabolism and Reproduction Joint LaboratoryReproductive Medicine CenterGuangdong Second Provincial General HospitalGuangzhou510317P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101P. R. China
| | - Hong‐Yong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101P. R. China
| | - Si‐Min Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101P. R. China
| | - Ying‐Chun Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101P. R. China
| | - Yi Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101P. R. China
| | - Heide Schatten
- Department of Veterinary PathobiologyUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMO65211USA
| | - Zhenyu Ju
- Key Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine of Ministry of EducationInstitute of Aging and Regenerative MedicineJinan UniversityGuangzhouGuangdong510632P. R. China
| | - Xiang‐Hong Ou
- Fertility Preservation LabGuangdong‐Hong Kong Metabolism and Reproduction Joint LaboratoryReproductive Medicine CenterGuangdong Second Provincial General HospitalGuangzhou510317P. R. China
| | - Zhen‐Bo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive BiologyInstitute of ZoologyChinese Academy of SciencesBeijing100101P. R. China
| | - Catherine C. L. Wong
- Department of Medical Research CenterState Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare DiseasesPeking Union Medical College HospitalChinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical CollegeBeijing100730P. R. China
- Tsinghua University‐Peking University Joint Center for Life SciencesTsinghua UniversityBeijing100084P. R. China
| | - Zhonghan Li
- Center for Growth Metabolism & AgingKey Laboratory of Bio‐Resource and Eco‐Environment of Ministry of EducationCollege of Life SciencesSichuan UniversityChengdu610017P. R. China
| | - Qing‐Yuan Sun
- Fertility Preservation LabGuangdong‐Hong Kong Metabolism and Reproduction Joint LaboratoryReproductive Medicine CenterGuangdong Second Provincial General HospitalGuangzhou510317P. R. China
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6
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Uemura S, Maenohara S, Inoue K, Ogonuki N, Matoba S, Ogura A, Kurumizaka M, Yamagata K, Sharif J, Koseki H, Ueda K, Unoki M, Sasaki H. UHRF1 is essential for proper cytoplasmic architecture and function of mouse oocytes and derived embryos. Life Sci Alliance 2023; 6:e202301904. [PMID: 37225425 PMCID: PMC10209520 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202301904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitin-like with PHD and RING finger domains 1 (UHRF1) is a protein essential for the maintenance of DNA methylation in somatic cells. However, UHRF1 is predominantly localized in the cytoplasm of mouse oocytes and preimplantation embryos, where it may play a role unrelated to the nuclear function. We herein report that oocyte-specific Uhrf1 KO results in impaired chromosome segregation, abnormal cleavage division, and preimplantation lethality of derived embryos. Our nuclear transfer experiment showed that the phenotype is attributable to cytoplasmic rather than nuclear defects of the zygotes. A proteomic analysis of KO oocytes revealed the down-regulation of proteins associated with microtubules including tubulins, which occurred independently of transcriptomic changes. Intriguingly, cytoplasmic lattices were disorganized, and mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and components of the subcortical maternal complex were mislocalized. Thus, maternal UHRF1 regulates the proper cytoplasmic architecture and function of oocytes and preimplantation embryos, likely through a mechanism unrelated to DNA methylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhei Uemura
- Division of Epigenomics and Development, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Shoji Maenohara
- Division of Epigenomics and Development, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kimiko Inoue
- Bioresource Engineering Division, RIKEN BioResource Research Center (BRC), Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Narumi Ogonuki
- Bioresource Engineering Division, RIKEN BioResource Research Center (BRC), Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Shogo Matoba
- Bioresource Engineering Division, RIKEN BioResource Research Center (BRC), Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Atsuo Ogura
- Bioresource Engineering Division, RIKEN BioResource Research Center (BRC), Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Mayuko Kurumizaka
- Center for Genetic Analysis of Biological Responses, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kazuo Yamagata
- Center for Genetic Analysis of Biological Responses, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Faculty of Biology-Oriented Science and Technology, KINDAI University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Jafar Sharif
- Laboratory for Developmental Genetics, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Koseki
- Laboratory for Developmental Genetics, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Koji Ueda
- Cancer Proteomics Group, Cancer Precision Medicine Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Motoko Unoki
- Division of Epigenomics and Development, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
- Department of Human Genetics, School of International Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Sasaki
- Division of Epigenomics and Development, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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7
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Yaacobi-Artzi S, Kalo D, Roth Z. Seasonal variation in the morphokinetics of in-vitro-derived bovine embryos is associated with the blastocyst developmental competence and gene expression. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 4:1030949. [PMID: 36406891 PMCID: PMC9670144 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.1030949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Summer heat stress is a major cause of reduced development of preimplantation embryos. Nevertheless, seasonal effects on embryo morphokinetics have been less studied. We used a non-invasive time-lapse system that allows continuous monitoring of embryos to study the seasonal impact on embryo morphokinetics. The experiments were performed during the cold and the hot seasons. Cumulus-oocyte complexes were aspirated from ovaries, in-vitro-matured, and fertilized. Putative zygotes were cultured in an incubator equipped with a time-lapse system. The cleavage and blastocyst formation rates were lower in the hot vs. the cold season (p < 0.01). The kinetics of the embryos differed between seasons, reflected by a delay in the second cleavage in the hot vs. the cold season (p < 0.03). The distribution of the embryos into different morphological grades (good, fair, and poor) throughout the first three cleavages differed between seasons, with a higher proportion of good-grade embryos in the hot season (p < 0.03). Cleaved embryos were categorized as either normal or abnormal, based on their first cleavage pattern. Normal cleavage was defined as when the first cleavage resulted in two equal blastomeres and further classified as either synchronous or asynchronous, according to their subsequent cleavages. Abnormal cleavage was defined as when the embryo directly cleaved into more than two blastomeres, it cleaved unequally into two unevenly sized blastomeres, or when the fusion of already divided blastomeres occurred. The proportion of abnormally cleaved embryos was higher in the hot season vs. the cold one (p < 0.01), reflected by a higher proportion of unequally cleaved embryos (p < 0.02). In the cold season, abnormally cleaved embryos had a lower potential to develop into blastocysts relative to their normally cleaved counterparts (p < 0.001). Blastocysts that developed in the cold and the hot seasons differed in the expression of genes that related to the cell cycle (STAT1; p < 0.01), stress (HSF1; p < 0.03), and embryo development (ZP3; p < 0.05). A higher expression level was recorded for the STAT1 and UHRF1 genes in blastocysts that developed from unequally vs. the synchronously cleaved embryos (p < 0.04). We provide the first evidence for a seasonal effect on embryo morphokinetics, which might explain the reduced embryo development during the hot season.
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Xiong X, Zhang X, Yang M, Zhu Y, Yu H, Fei X, Mastuda F, Lan D, Xiong Y, Fu W, Yin S, Li J. Oocyte-Specific Knockout of Histone Lysine Demethylase KDM2a Compromises Fertility by Blocking the Development of Follicles and Oocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231912008. [PMID: 36233308 PMCID: PMC9570323 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231912008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The methylation status of histones plays a crucial role in many cellular processes, including follicular and oocyte development. Lysine-specific demethylase 2a (KDM2a) has been reported to be closely associated with gametogenesis and reproductive performance, but the specific function and regulatory mechanism have been poorly characterized in vivo. We found KDM2a to be highly expressed in growing follicles and oocytes of mice in this study. To elucidate the physiological role of Kdm2a, the zona pellucida 3-Cre (Zp3-Cre)/LoxP system was used to generate an oocyte Kdm2a conditional knockout (Zp3-Cre; Kdm2aflox/flox, termed Kdm2a cKO) model. Our results showed that the number of pups was reduced by approximately 50% in adult Kdm2a cKO female mice mating with wildtype males than that of the control (Kdm2aflox/flox) group. To analyze the potential causes, the ovaries of Kdm2a cKO mice were subjected to histological examination, and results indicated an obvious difference in follicular development between Kdm2a cKO and control female mice and partial arrest at the primary antral follicle stage. The GVBD and matured rates of oocytes were also compromised after conditional knockout Kdm2a, and the morphological abnormal oocytes increased. Furthermore, the level of 17β-estradiol of Kdm2a cKO mice was only 60% of that in the counterparts, and hormone sensitivity decreased as the total number of ovulated and matured oocytes decreased after superovulation. After deletion of Kdm2a, the patterns of H3K36me2/3 in GVBD-stage oocytes were remarkedly changed. Transcriptome sequencing showed that the mRNA expression profiles in Kdm2a cKO oocytes were significantly different, and numerous differentially expressed genes were involved in pathways regulating follicular and oocyte development. Taken together, these results indicated that the oocyte-specific knockout Kdm2a gene led to female subfertility, suggesting the crucial role of Kdm2a in epigenetic modification and follicular and oocyte development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianrong Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Exploitation of Ministry of Education, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory for Animal Science of National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xiaojian Zhang
- Center for Assisted Reproduction, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Manzhen Yang
- Key Laboratory for Animal Science of National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yanjin Zhu
- Key Laboratory for Animal Science of National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Hailing Yu
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Exploitation of Ministry of Education, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xixi Fei
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Exploitation of Ministry of Education, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Fuko Mastuda
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan
| | - Daoliang Lan
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Exploitation of Ministry of Education, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yan Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Exploitation of Ministry of Education, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Wei Fu
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Exploitation of Ministry of Education, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Shi Yin
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Exploitation of Ministry of Education, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jian Li
- Key Laboratory of Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau Animal Genetic Resource Reservation and Exploitation of Ministry of Education, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Key Laboratory for Animal Science of National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Correspondence:
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9
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Zhou S, Dong J, Xiong M, Gan S, Wen Y, Zhang J, Wang X, Yuan S, Gui Y. UHRF1 interacts with snRNAs and regulates alternative splicing in mouse spermatogonial stem cells. Stem Cell Reports 2022; 17:1859-1873. [PMID: 35905740 PMCID: PMC9391524 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2022.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Life-long male fertility relies on exquisite homeostasis and the development of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs); however, the underlying molecular genetic and epigenetic regulation in this equilibrium process remains unclear. Here, we document that UHRF1 interacts with snRNAs to regulate pre-mRNA alternative splicing in SSCs and is required for the homeostasis of SSCs in mice. Genetic deficiency of UHRF1 in mouse prospermatogonia results in gradual loss of spermatogonial stem cells, eventually leading to Sertoli-cell-only syndrome (SCOS) and male infertility. Comparative RNA-seq data provide evidence that Uhrf1 ablation dysregulates previously reported SSC maintenance- and differentiation-related genes. We further found that UHRF1 could act as an alternative RNA splicing regulator and interact with Tle3 transcripts to regulate its splicing event in spermatogonia. Collectively, our data reveal a multifunctional role for UHRF1 in regulating gene expression programs and alternative splicing during SSC homeostasis, which may provide clues for treating human male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shumin Zhou
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Juan Dong
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Mengneng Xiong
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shiming Gan
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yujiao Wen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xiaoli Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shuiqiao Yuan
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Laboratory Animal Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China; Shenzhen Huazhong University of Science and Technology Research Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518057, China.
| | - Yaoting Gui
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518036, China.
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10
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UHRF1 establishes crosstalk between somatic and germ cells in male reproduction. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:377. [PMID: 35440090 PMCID: PMC9018721 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04837-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
AbstractSertoli cells (SCs) support and nourish germ cells (GCs) through their crosstalk during spermatogenesis. However, the underlying epigenetic mechanism that ensures SCs’ functions in this process remains unclear. Here, we report that UHRF1, a critical epigenetic regulator, is mainly expressed in human and mouse pre-mature SCs, and is essential for establishing Sertoli-Germ cell crosstalk. SC-specific UHRF1 knockout mice exhibit complete sterility with Sertoli cell (SC) proliferation and differentiation aberrance, blood-testis barrier (BTB) disruption, and immature germ cell (GC) sloughing. RNA sequencing and Whole Genome Bisulfite Sequencing (WGBS) revealed that many extracellular matrix (ECM)-related genes (e.g., Timp1, Trf, and Spp1) appeared upregulated with the DNA hypomethylation status in UHRF1-deficient SCs. Strikingly, overexpression of Timp1, Trf, and Spp1 in SCs in vitro and in vivo could phenocopy the SC-specific UHRF1-deficient mice. Our data demonstrated that UHRF1 regulates the transcriptional program of ECM-related genes in SCs and establishes SC-GC crosstalk.
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11
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Liu H, Wang LL, Xu QH, Wang J, Zhang YJ, Luo J, Liao AH. UHRF1 shapes both the trophoblast invasion and decidual macrophage differentiation in early pregnancy. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22247. [PMID: 35262949 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202101647rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Trophoblasts play critical roles in establishment and maintenance of a normal pregnancy. Their dysfunction in early pregnancy is closely related to pregnancy-related diseases, including recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). Epigenetic modifications dynamically change during pregnancy; however, the role of the epigenetic modifier UHRF1 in trophoblast regulation remains unknown. This is the first study to show that UHRF1 expression was localized in the cytoplasm of cytotrophoblasts, syncytiotrophoblasts, and villi columns, and decreased in the villi of patients with RPL. The invasion and cell viability in a UHRF1 knockdown trophoblast cell line were significantly decreased. In addition, the mRNA expression profiles of Swan71 cells were partially altered by UHRF1 knockdown. The altered immune-related genes were screened out and the pro-inflammatory TH1-type chemokine/cytokines CXCL2 and IL-1β were identified as the most promising targets of UHRF1 in the trophoblasts, which were significantly increased in the UHRF1 knockdown Swan71 cells, villi, and serum from patients with RPL. The macrophages treated with the supernatants of UHRF1 knockdown Swan71 cells were polarized to the M1 phenotype and secreted high levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which might be driven by the activated MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway and mediated by the increased expression of CXCR2 and IL-1R1 (CXCL2 and IL-1β receptors, respectively). In addition, the supernatants of UHRF1 knockdown Swan71 cells showed stronger chemotaxis to macrophages than those from the controls. Our findings highlight the previously unknown roles of UHRF1 as one of the key regulators on the trophoblasts and their cross-talk with local immune cells, and demonstrate a potential approach for RPL intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Li-Ling Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Qian-Han Xu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Jing Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Yu-Jing Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Jing Luo
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Ai-Hua Liao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, P.R. China
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12
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Kiyozumi D, Ikawa M. Proteolysis in Reproduction: Lessons From Gene-Modified Organism Studies. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:876370. [PMID: 35600599 PMCID: PMC9114714 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.876370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The physiological roles of proteolysis are not limited to degrading unnecessary proteins. Proteolysis plays pivotal roles in various biological processes through cleaving peptide bonds to activate and inactivate proteins including enzymes, transcription factors, and receptors. As a wide range of cellular processes is regulated by proteolysis, abnormalities or dysregulation of such proteolytic processes therefore often cause diseases. Recent genetic studies have clarified the inclusion of proteases and protease inhibitors in various reproductive processes such as development of gonads, generation and activation of gametes, and physical interaction between gametes in various species including yeast, animals, and plants. Such studies not only clarify proteolysis-related factors but the biological processes regulated by proteolysis for successful reproduction. Here the physiological roles of proteases and proteolysis in reproduction will be reviewed based on findings using gene-modified organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiji Kiyozumi
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
- PRESTO, Japan Science and Technology Agency, Kawaguchi, Japan
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
- The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- CREST, Japan Science and Technology Agency, Kawaguchi, Japan
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13
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UNOKI M, SASAKI H. The UHRF protein family in epigenetics, development, and carcinogenesis. PROCEEDINGS OF THE JAPAN ACADEMY. SERIES B, PHYSICAL AND BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES 2022; 98:401-415. [PMID: 36216533 PMCID: PMC9614205 DOI: 10.2183/pjab.98.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The UHRF protein family consists of multidomain regulatory proteins that sense modification status of DNA and/or proteins and catalyze the ubiquitylation of target proteins. Through their functional domains, they interact with other molecules and serve as a hub for regulatory networks of several important biological processes, including maintenance of DNA methylation and DNA damage repair. The UHRF family is conserved in vertebrates and plants but is missing from fungi and many nonvertebrate animals. Mammals commonly have UHRF1 and UHRF2, but, despite their high structural similarity, the two paralogues appear to have distinct functions. Furthermore, UHRF1 and UHRF2 show different expression patterns and different outcomes in gene knockout experiments. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the molecular function of the UHRF family in various biological pathways and discuss their roles in epigenetics, development, gametogenesis, and carcinogenesis, with a focus on the mammalian UHRF proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motoko UNOKI
- Division of Epigenomics and Development, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
- Department of Human Genetics, School of International Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki SASAKI
- Division of Epigenomics and Development, Medical Institute of Bioregulation, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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14
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Single cell RNA-seq reveals genes vital to in vitro fertilized embryos and parthenotes in pigs. Sci Rep 2021; 11:14393. [PMID: 34257377 PMCID: PMC8277874 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-93904-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful early embryo development requires the correct reprogramming and configuration of gene networks by the timely and faithful execution of zygotic genome activation (ZGA). However, the regulatory principle of molecular elements and circuits fundamental to embryo development remains largely obscure. Here, we profiled the transcriptomes of single zygotes and blastomeres, obtained from in vitro fertilized (IVF) or parthenogenetically activated (PA) porcine early embryos (1- to 8-cell), focusing on the gene expression dynamics and regulatory networks associated with maternal-to-zygote transition (MZT) (mainly maternal RNA clearance and ZGA). We found that minor and major ZGAs occur at 1-cell and 4-cell stages for both IVF and PA embryos, respectively. Maternal RNAs gradually decay from 1- to 8-cell embryos. Top abundantly expressed genes (CDV3, PCNA, CDR1, YWHAE, DNMT1, IGF2BP3, ARMC1, BTG4, UHRF2 and gametocyte-specific factor 1-like) in both IVF and PA early embryos identified are of vital roles for embryo development. Differentially expressed genes within IVF groups are different from that within PA groups, indicating bi-parental and maternal-only embryos have specific sets of mRNAs distinctly decayed and activated. Pathways enriched from DEGs showed that RNA associated pathways (RNA binding, processing, transport and degradation) could be important. Moreover, mitochondrial RNAs are found to be actively transcribed, showing dynamic expression patterns, and for DNA/H3K4 methylation and transcription factors as well. Taken together, our findings provide an important resource to investigate further the epigenetic and genome regulation of MZT events in early embryos of pigs.
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15
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Wu Y, Dong J, Feng S, Zhao Q, Duan P, Xiong M, Wen Y, Lv C, Wang X, Yuan S. Maternal UHRF1 Is Essential for Transcription Landscapes and Repression of Repetitive Elements During the Maternal-to-Zygotic Transition. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 8:610773. [PMID: 33634103 PMCID: PMC7902027 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.610773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal factors that modulate maternal-to-zygotic transition (MZT) are essential for the growth from specialized oocytes to totipotent embryos. Despite several studies, the mechanisms regulating epigenetic reprogramming during MZT remain largely elusive. UHRF1 plays a role in maintaining GC methylation in oocytes and early embryos. However, little is known about its role in mouse MZT. Here, we explored the function of maternal UHRF1 in zygotic genome regulation during early embryonic development in mice. We showed that the conditional knockout (cKO) of UHRF1 in either primordial or growing oocytes causes infertility but differentially affects early embryonic development. UHRF1 deficiency in primordial oocytes led to early embryonic developmental arrest at the two-cell stage, accompanied by significant alterations in global DNA and H3K4me3 methylation patterns. In comparison, UHRF1 ablation in growing oocytes significantly reduced developmental competence from two-cell embryos to blastocysts. At the transcriptional level, the absence of maternal UHRF1 led to aberrant transcriptional regulation of the zygotic genome during MZT at the two-cell stage. Furthermore, we observed that retrotransposable elements in UHRF1-deficient oocytes and embryos were not silenced properly; in particular, the LINE-1 and long terminal repeat (LTR) subfamily were activated abnormally. Collectively, the findings of our study reveal that maternal UHRF1 plays a critical role in establishing the correct epigenetic chromatin reprogramming of early embryos, regulating essential genes during MZT, and preserving genome integrity that drives early embryonic development in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanqing Wu
- Tongji Medical College, Institute Reproductive Health, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Juan Dong
- Tongji Medical College, Institute Reproductive Health, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shenglei Feng
- Tongji Medical College, Institute Reproductive Health, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiang Zhao
- Central Laboratory, Xiangyang No.1 People's Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Peng Duan
- Laboratory of Gynecological Oncology and Reproductive Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No.1 People's Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Mengneng Xiong
- Tongji Medical College, Institute Reproductive Health, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yujiao Wen
- Tongji Medical College, Institute Reproductive Health, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunyu Lv
- Tongji Medical College, Institute Reproductive Health, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoli Wang
- Tongji Medical College, Institute Reproductive Health, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shuiqiao Yuan
- Tongji Medical College, Institute Reproductive Health, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Shenzhen Huazhong University of Science and Technology Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
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16
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El Fersioui Y, Pinton G, Allaman-Pillet N, Schorderet DF. Hmx1 regulates urfh1 expression in the craniofacial region in zebrafish. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0245239. [PMID: 33465110 PMCID: PMC7815118 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0245239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
H6 family homeobox 1 (HMX1) regulates multiple aspects of craniofacial development as it is widely expressed in the eye, peripheral ganglia and branchial arches. Mutations in HMX1 are linked to an ocular defect termed Oculo-auricular syndrome of Schorderet-Munier-Franceschetti (MIM #612109). We identified UHRF1 as a target of HMX1 during development. UHRF1 and its partner proteins actively regulate chromatin modifications and cellular proliferation. Luciferase assays and in situ hybridization analyses showed that HMX1 exerts a transcriptional inhibitory effect on UHRF1 and a modification of its expression pattern. Overexpression of hmx1 in hsp70-hmx1 zebrafish increased uhrf1 expression in the cranial region, while mutations in the hmx1 dimerization domains reduced uhrf1 expression. Moreover, the expression level of uhrf1 and its partner dnmt1 was increased in the eye field in response to hmx1 overexpression. These results indicate that hmx1 regulates uhrf1 expression and, potentially through regulating the expression of factors involved in DNA methylation, contribute to the development of the craniofacial region of zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Younes El Fersioui
- IRO – Institute for Research in Ophthalmology, Sion, Switzerland
- * E-mail: (YEF); (DFS)
| | - Gaëtan Pinton
- IRO – Institute for Research in Ophthalmology, Sion, Switzerland
| | | | - Daniel F. Schorderet
- IRO – Institute for Research in Ophthalmology, Sion, Switzerland
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- * E-mail: (YEF); (DFS)
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Tolmacheva EN, Vasilyev SA, Lebedev IN. Aneuploidy and DNA Methylation as Mirrored Features of Early Human Embryo Development. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:E1084. [PMID: 32957536 PMCID: PMC7564410 DOI: 10.3390/genes11091084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome stability is an integral feature of all living organisms. Aneuploidy is the most common cause of fetal death in humans. The timing of bursts in increased aneuploidy frequency coincides with the waves of global epigenetic reprogramming in mammals. During gametogenesis and early embryogenesis, parental genomes undergo two waves of DNA methylation reprogramming. Failure of these processes can critically affect genome stability, including chromosome segregation during cell division. Abnormal methylation due to errors in the reprogramming process can potentially lead to aneuploidy. On the other hand, the presence of an entire additional chromosome, or chromosome loss, can affect the global genome methylation level. The associations of these two phenomena are well studied in the context of carcinogenesis, but here, we consider the relationship of DNA methylation and aneuploidy in early human and mammalian ontogenesis. In this review, we link these two phenomena and highlight the critical ontogenesis periods and genome regions that play a significant role in human reproduction and in the formation of pathological phenotypes in newborns with chromosomal aneuploidy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina N. Tolmacheva
- Research Institute of Medical Genetics, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, 634050 Tomsk, Russia; (S.A.V.); (I.N.L.)
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