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Jia Y, Zhao Y, Niu M, Zhao C, Li X, Chen H. Preliminary study of metabonomic changes during the progression of atherosclerosis in miniature pigs. Animal Model Exp Med 2024; 7:419-432. [PMID: 38923366 PMCID: PMC11369038 DOI: 10.1002/ame2.12462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To explore potential biomarkers for early diagnosis of atherosclerosis (AS) and provide basic data for further research on AS, the characteristics of serum metabolomics during the progression of AS in mini-pigs were observed dynamically. METHODS An AS model in Bama miniature pigs was established by a high-cholesterol and high-fat diet. Fasting serum samples were collected monthly for metabolomics and serum lipid detection. At the end of the treatment period, pathological analysis of the abdominal aorta and coronary artery was performed to evaluate the lesions of AS, thereby distinguishing the susceptibility of mini-pigs to AS. The metabolomics was detected using a high-resolution untargeted metabolomic approach. Statistical analysis was used to identify metabolites associated with AS susceptibility. RESULTS Based on pathological analysis, mini-pigs were divided into two groups: a susceptible group (n = 3) and a non-susceptible group (n = 6). A total of 1318 metabolites were identified, with significant shifting of metabolic profiles over time in both groups. Dynamic monitoring analysis highlighted 57 metabolites that exhibited an obvious trend of differential changes between two groups with the advance of time. The KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) pathway enrichment analysis indicated significant disorders in cholesterol metabolism, primary bile acid metabolism, histidine metabolism, as well as taurine and hypotaurine metabolism. CONCLUSIONS During the progression of AS in mini-pigs induced by high-cholesterol/high-fat diet, the alterations in serum metabolic profile exhibited a time-dependent pattern, accompanied by notable disturbances in lipid metabolism, cholesterol metabolism, and amino acid metabolism. These metabolites may become potential biomarkers for early diagnosis of AS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunxiao Jia
- Laboratory Animal CenterChinese PLA General HospitalBeijingPeople's Republic of China
| | - Yuqiong Zhao
- Laboratory Animal CenterChinese PLA General HospitalBeijingPeople's Republic of China
| | - Miaomiao Niu
- Laboratory Animal CenterChinese PLA General HospitalBeijingPeople's Republic of China
| | - Changqi Zhao
- Laboratory Animal CenterChinese PLA General HospitalBeijingPeople's Republic of China
| | - Xuezhuang Li
- Laboratory Animal CenterChinese PLA General HospitalBeijingPeople's Republic of China
| | - Hua Chen
- Laboratory Animal CenterChinese PLA General HospitalBeijingPeople's Republic of China
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2
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Wydorski PJ, Kozlowska W, Zmijewska A, Franczak A. Exposure to the extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field induces changes in the epigenetic regulation of gene expression in the endometrium. Theriogenology 2024; 217:72-82. [PMID: 38262222 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Increasing technological development results in more sources of the extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF), which is recognized as an environmental risk factor. The results of the past study indicate that the ELF-EMF can affect the level of DNA methylation. The study aimed to determine whether the ELF-EMF induces changes in epigenetic regulation of gene expression in the endometrium of pigs during the peri-implantation period. Endometrial slices (100 ± 5 mg) collected on days 15-16 of pregnancy were exposed in vitro to the ELF-EMF at a frequency of 50 Hz for 2 h of treatment duration. To determine the impact of the ELF-EMF on elements of epigenetic regulations involved in DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNA biogenesis in the endometrium, the DNMT1 and DNMT3a; EZH2, UHRF1, and MBD1; DICER1 and DGCR8 mRNA transcript and protein abundance were analyzed using Real-Time PCR and Western blot, respectively. Moreover, EED and SUZ12 mRNA transcript, global DNA methylation, and the activity of histone deacetylase (HDAC) were analyzed. The changes in the abundance of DNMT1 and DNMT3a, EZH2 mRNA transcript and protein, EED and SUZ12 mRNA transcript, global DNA methylation level, HDAC activity, and the abundance of proteins involved in microRNA biogenesis evoked by the ELF-EMF in the endometrium were observed. The ELF-EMF possesses the potential to alter epigenetic regulation of gene expression in the porcine endometrium. Observed alterations may be the reason for changes in the transcriptomic profile of the endometrium exposed to the ELF-EMF which in turn may disrupt biological processes in the uterus during peri-implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pawel Jozef Wydorski
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719, Olsztyn, Poland.
| | - Wiktoria Kozlowska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719, Olsztyn, Poland.
| | - Agata Zmijewska
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719, Olsztyn, Poland.
| | - Anita Franczak
- Department of Animal Anatomy and Physiology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719, Olsztyn, Poland.
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3
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Lemos GAA, Santos AC, Brito DCC, Novaes MAS, Assis Neto AC. Steroidogenic activity and morphological characterization of prenatal testes and epididymis of guinea pig (Cavia porcellus). Anim Reprod Sci 2024; 261:107407. [PMID: 38217925 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2023.107407] [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: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
The present study aims to establish the morphological, morphometric, and immunostaining patterns of the steroidogenic enzymes 17β-HSD and 5α-reductase and androgen receptors (AR) during the prenatal development of the male gonad and epididymis of Cavia porcellus. Fetuses at 22, 25, 30, 40, 45, 50, and 60 days of gestation (DG) were used. Specimens were dissected and subjected to macroscopic, histological, histomorphometric, and immunohistochemical analyses. Genital and scrotal protrusions were identified in 22 DG embryos. Gonocytes were identified at 25 DG and the formation of primary testicular cords was observed at 30 DG. Through anatomical evaluation, we observed differentiation of the epididymis into the head, body, and tail at 45 DG. During development, there is a progressive decrease in the diameters of the testicular cords and epididymal ducts. 17β-HSD enzyme immunostaining was observed in Leydig cells at all ages, while 5α-reductase was observed in Leydig cell cytoplasm and gonocytes at 40, 50, and 60 DG. AR shows gonocyte labeling at 30 DG. Thus, from the second trimester of pregnancy, it is possible to observe patterns of anatomical development, such as genital and scrotal prominence (22 DG), the appearance of gonocytes in the testicular cords at 25 DG, and the beginning of the organization of primary testicular cords at 30 DG, suggesting sexual differentiation. The 17β-HSD, 5α-reductase, and ARs play an essential role in sexual development and differentiation, presenting immunostaining at different reproductive process times.
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Affiliation(s)
- G A A Lemos
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - A C Santos
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - D C C Brito
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Ovarian Pre-Antral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - M A S Novaes
- Laboratory of Manipulation of Oocytes and Ovarian Pre-Antral Follicles (LAMOFOPA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, State University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - A C Assis Neto
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Okamoto K, Matsunari H, Nakano K, Umeyama K, Hasegawa K, Uchikura A, Takayanagi S, Watanabe M, Ohgane J, Stirm M, Kurome M, Klymiuk N, Nagaya M, Wolf E, Nagashima H. Phenotypic features of genetically modified DMD-X KOX WT pigs. Regen Ther 2023; 24:451-458. [PMID: 37772130 PMCID: PMC10523442 DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2023.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a hereditary neuromuscular disorder caused by mutation in the dystrophin gene (DMD) on the X chromosome. Female DMD carriers occasionally exhibit symptoms such as muscle weakness and heart failure. Here, we investigated the characteristics and representativeness of female DMD carrier (DMD-XKOXWT) pigs as a suitable disease model. Methods In vitro fertilization using sperm from a DMD-XKOY↔XWTXWT chimeric boar yielded DMD-XKOXWT females, which were used to generate F2 and F3 progeny, including DMD-XKOXWT females. F1-F3 piglets were genotyped and subjected to biochemical analysis for blood creatine kinase (CK), aspartate aminotransferase, and lactate dehydrogenase. Skeletal muscle and myocardial tissue were analyzed for the expression of dystrophin and utrophin, as well as for lymphocyte and macrophage infiltration. Results DMD-XKOXWT pigs exhibited various characteristics common to human DMD carrier patients, namely, asymptomatic hyperCKemia, dystrophin expression patterns in the skeletal and cardiac muscles, histopathological features of skeletal muscle degeneration, myocardial lesions in adulthood, and sporadic death. Pathological abnormalities observed in the skeletal muscles in DMD-XKOXWT pigs point to a frequent incidence of pathological abnormalities in the musculoskeletal tissues of latent DMD carriers. Our findings suggest a higher risk of myocardial abnormalities in DMD carrier women than previously believed. Conclusions We demonstrated that DMD-XKOXWT pigs could serve as a suitable large animal model for understanding the pathogenic mechanism in DMD carriers and developing therapies for female DMD carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazutoshi Okamoto
- Laboratory of Medical Bioengineering, Department of Life Sciences, School of Agriculture, Meiji University, 1-1-1 Higashimita, Tama-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 214-8571, Japan
| | - Hitomi Matsunari
- Meiji University International Institute for Bio-Resource Research, 1-1-1 Higashimita, Tama-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 214-8571, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Nakano
- Meiji University International Institute for Bio-Resource Research, 1-1-1 Higashimita, Tama-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 214-8571, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Umeyama
- Meiji University International Institute for Bio-Resource Research, 1-1-1 Higashimita, Tama-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 214-8571, Japan
| | - Koki Hasegawa
- Meiji University International Institute for Bio-Resource Research, 1-1-1 Higashimita, Tama-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 214-8571, Japan
| | - Ayuko Uchikura
- Meiji University International Institute for Bio-Resource Research, 1-1-1 Higashimita, Tama-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 214-8571, Japan
| | - Shuko Takayanagi
- Meiji University International Institute for Bio-Resource Research, 1-1-1 Higashimita, Tama-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 214-8571, Japan
| | - Masahito Watanabe
- Meiji University International Institute for Bio-Resource Research, 1-1-1 Higashimita, Tama-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 214-8571, Japan
| | - Jun Ohgane
- Laboratory of Genomic Function Engineering, Department of Life Sciences, School of Agriculture, Meiji University, 1-1-1 Higashimita, Tama-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 214-8571, Japan
| | - Michael Stirm
- Chair for Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Gene Center and Department of Veterinary Sciences, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
- Center for Innovative Medical Models (CiMM), LMU Munich, 85764 Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - Mayuko Kurome
- Meiji University International Institute for Bio-Resource Research, 1-1-1 Higashimita, Tama-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 214-8571, Japan
- Chair for Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Gene Center and Department of Veterinary Sciences, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
- Center for Innovative Medical Models (CiMM), LMU Munich, 85764 Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - Nikolai Klymiuk
- Chair for Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Gene Center and Department of Veterinary Sciences, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
- Center for Innovative Medical Models (CiMM), LMU Munich, 85764 Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - Masaki Nagaya
- Meiji University International Institute for Bio-Resource Research, 1-1-1 Higashimita, Tama-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 214-8571, Japan
| | - Eckhard Wolf
- Meiji University International Institute for Bio-Resource Research, 1-1-1 Higashimita, Tama-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 214-8571, Japan
- Chair for Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Gene Center and Department of Veterinary Sciences, LMU Munich, 81377 Munich, Germany
- Center for Innovative Medical Models (CiMM), LMU Munich, 85764 Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - Hiroshi Nagashima
- Laboratory of Medical Bioengineering, Department of Life Sciences, School of Agriculture, Meiji University, 1-1-1 Higashimita, Tama-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 214-8571, Japan
- Meiji University International Institute for Bio-Resource Research, 1-1-1 Higashimita, Tama-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa 214-8571, Japan
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Tanihara F, Hirata M, Namula Z, Wittayarat M, Do LTK, Lin Q, Takebayashi K, Hara H, Nagahara M, Otoi T. GHR-mutant pig derived from domestic pig and microminipig hybrid zygotes using CRISPR/Cas9 system. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:5049-5057. [PMID: 37101010 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08388-3] [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: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pigs are excellent large animal models with several similarities to humans. They provide valuable insights into biomedical research that are otherwise difficult to obtain from rodent models. However, even if miniature pig strains are used, their large stature compared with other experimental animals requires a specific maintenance facility which greatly limits their usage as animal models. Deficiency of growth hormone receptor (GHR) function causes small stature phenotypes. The establishment of miniature pig strains via GHR modification will enhance their usage as animal models. Microminipig is an incredibly small miniature pig strain developed in Japan. In this study, we generated a GHR mutant pig using electroporation-mediated introduction of the CRISPR/Cas9 system into porcine zygotes derived from domestic porcine oocytes and microminipig spermatozoa. METHODS AND RESULTS First, we optimized the efficiency of five guide RNAs (gRNAs) designed to target GHR in zygotes. Embryos that had been electroporated with the optimized gRNAs and Cas9 were then transferred into recipient gilts. After embryo transfer, 10 piglets were delivered, and one carried a biallelic mutation in the GHR target region. The GHR biallelic mutant showed a remarkable growth-retardation phenotype. Furthermore, we obtained F1 pigs derived from the mating of GHR biallelic mutant with wild-type microminipig, and GHR biallelic mutant F2 pigs through sib-mating of F1 pigs. CONCLUSIONS We have successfully demonstrated the generation of biallelic GHR-mutant small-stature pigs. Backcrossing of GHR-deficient pig with microminipig will establish the smallest pig strain which can contribute significantly to the field of biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuminori Tanihara
- Faculty of Bioscience and Bioindustry, Tokushima University, Ishii, Myozai-gun, Tokushima, 7793233, Japan
| | - Maki Hirata
- Faculty of Bioscience and Bioindustry, Tokushima University, Ishii, Myozai-gun, Tokushima, 7793233, Japan
- Bio-Innovation Research Center, Tokushima University, Ishii, Myozai-gun, Tokushima, 7793233, Japan
| | - Zhao Namula
- Faculty of Bioscience and Bioindustry, Tokushima University, Ishii, Myozai-gun, Tokushima, 7793233, Japan
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, 524088, China
| | - Manita Wittayarat
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, 90110, Thailand
| | - Lanh Thi Kim Do
- Faculty of Bioscience and Bioindustry, Tokushima University, Ishii, Myozai-gun, Tokushima, 7793233, Japan
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam
| | - Qingyi Lin
- Faculty of Bioscience and Bioindustry, Tokushima University, Ishii, Myozai-gun, Tokushima, 7793233, Japan
- Bio-Innovation Research Center, Tokushima University, Ishii, Myozai-gun, Tokushima, 7793233, Japan
| | - Koki Takebayashi
- Faculty of Bioscience and Bioindustry, Tokushima University, Ishii, Myozai-gun, Tokushima, 7793233, Japan
- Bio-Innovation Research Center, Tokushima University, Ishii, Myozai-gun, Tokushima, 7793233, Japan
| | - Hiromasa Hara
- Division of Regenerative Medicine, Center for Molecular Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, 3290498, Japan
- Laboratory of Regenerative And Cellular Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, 3290498, Japan
| | - Megumi Nagahara
- Faculty of Bioscience and Bioindustry, Tokushima University, Ishii, Myozai-gun, Tokushima, 7793233, Japan
- Bio-Innovation Research Center, Tokushima University, Ishii, Myozai-gun, Tokushima, 7793233, Japan
| | - Takeshige Otoi
- Faculty of Bioscience and Bioindustry, Tokushima University, Ishii, Myozai-gun, Tokushima, 7793233, Japan.
- Bio-Innovation Research Center, Tokushima University, Ishii, Myozai-gun, Tokushima, 7793233, Japan.
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Tanihara F, Hirata M, Otoi T. GEEP Method: An Optimized Electroporation-Mediated Gene Editing Approach for Establishment of Knockout Pig Lines. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2637:293-300. [PMID: 36773155 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3016-7_22] [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] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
Pigs are excellent large animal models owing to their several physiological and anatomical similarities to humans. Somatic cell nuclear transfer using gene-modified cells is the mainstream approach for generating genetically modified pigs. Recent advances in improving gene editors such as the CRISPR/Cas9 system have enabled direct gene modification in zygotes/embryos. Here, we describe the gene editing by electroporation of Cas9 protein (GEEP) method, an optimized electroporation-mediated method for the introduction of CRISPR/Cas9 into porcine zygotes/embryos. The simplicity and micromanipulation-free procedures are the major advantages of this method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuminori Tanihara
- Center for Development of Advanced Medical Technology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Maki Hirata
- Faculty of Bioscience and Bioindustry, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
- Bio-Innovation Research Center, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Takeshige Otoi
- Faculty of Bioscience and Bioindustry, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan.
- Bio-Innovation Research Center, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan.
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Smith WJ, Quilodrán CS, Jezierski MT, Sendell-Price AT, Clegg SM. The wild ancestors of domestic animals as a neglected and threatened component of biodiversity. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2022; 36:e13867. [PMID: 34811819 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.13867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Domestic animals have immense economic, cultural, and practical value and have played pivotal roles in the development of human civilization. Many domesticates have, among their wild relatives, undomesticated forms representative of their ancestors. Resurgent interest in these ancestral forms has highlighted the unclear genetic status of many, and some are threatened with extinction by hybridization with domestic conspecifics. We considered the contemporary status of these ancestral forms relative to their scientific, practical, and ecological importance; the varied impacts of wild-domestic hybridization; and the challenges and potential resolutions involved in conservation efforts. Identifying and conserving ancestral forms, particularly with respect to disentangling patterns of gene flow from domesticates, is complex because of the lack of available genomic and phenotypic baselines. Comparative behavioral, ecological, and genetic studies of ancestral-type, feral, and domestic animals should be prioritized to establish the contemporary status of the former. Such baseline information will be fundamental in ensuring successful conservation efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- William J Smith
- Edward Grey Institute of Field Ornithology, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Claudio S Quilodrán
- Edward Grey Institute of Field Ornithology, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Michał T Jezierski
- Edward Grey Institute of Field Ornithology, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Ashley T Sendell-Price
- Edward Grey Institute of Field Ornithology, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sonya M Clegg
- Edward Grey Institute of Field Ornithology, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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8
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S. Aljaser F. Cryopreservation Methods and Frontiers in the Art of Freezing Life in Animal Models. Vet Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.101750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The development in cryobiology in animal breeding had revolutionized the field of reproductive medicine. The main objective to preserve animal germplasm stems from variety of reasons such as conservation of endangered animal species, animal diversity, and an increased demand of animal models and/or genetically modified animals for research involving animal and human diseases. Cryopreservation has emerged as promising technique for fertility preservation and assisted reproduction techniques (ART) for production of animal breeds and genetically engineered animal species for research. Slow rate freezing and rapid freezing/vitrification are the two main methods of cryopreservation. Slow freezing is characterized by the phase transition (liquid turning into solid) when reducing the temperature below freezing point. Vitrification, on the other hand, is a phenomenon in which liquid solidifies without the formation of ice crystals, thus the process is referred to as a glass transition or ice-free cryopreservation. The vitrification protocol applies high concentrations of cryoprotective agents (CPA) used to avoid cryoinjury. This chapter provides a brief overview of fundamentals of cryopreservation and established methods adopted in cryopreservation. Strategies involved in cryopreserving germ cells (sperm and egg freezing) are included in this chapter. Last section describes the frontiers and advancement of cryopreservation in some of the important animal models like rodents (mouse and rats) and in few large animals (sheep, cow etc).
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9
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Hou N, Du X, Wu S. Advances in pig models of human diseases. Animal Model Exp Med 2022; 5:141-152. [PMID: 35343091 PMCID: PMC9043727 DOI: 10.1002/ame2.12223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Animal models of human diseases play a critical role in medical research. Pigs are anatomically and physiologically more like humans than are small rodents such as mice, making pigs an attractive option for modeling human diseases. Advances in recent years in genetic engineering have facilitated the rapid rise of pig models for use in studies of human disease. In the present review, we summarize the current status of pig models for human cardiovascular, metabolic, neurodegenerative, and various genetic diseases. We also discuss areas that need to be improved. Animal models of human diseases play a critical role in medical research. Advances in recent years in genetic engineering have facilitated the rapid rise of pig models for use in studies of human disease. In the present review, we summarize the current status of pig models for human cardiovascular, metabolic, neurodegenerative, various genetic diseases and xenotransplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naipeng Hou
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.,Sanya Institute of China Agricultural University, Sanya, China
| | - Xuguang Du
- Sanya Institute of China Agricultural University, Sanya, China.,State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Sen Wu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China.,Sanya Institute of China Agricultural University, Sanya, China.,State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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10
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Harness EM, Mohamad-Fauzi N, Murray JD. MSC therapy in livestock models. Transl Anim Sci 2022; 6:txac012. [PMID: 35356233 PMCID: PMC8962450 DOI: 10.1093/tas/txac012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have great value as therapeutic tools in a wide array of applications in regenerative medicine. The wide repertoire of cell functions regarding tissue regeneration, immunomodulation, and antimicrobial activity makes MSC-based therapy a strong candidate for treatment options in a variety of clinical conditions and should be studied to expand the current breadth of knowledge surrounding their physiological properties and therapeutic benefits. Livestock models are an appropriate resource for testing the efficacy of MSC therapies for their use in biomedical research and can be used to improve both human health and animal agriculture. Agricultural animal models such as pigs, cattle, sheep, and goats have grown in popularity for in vivo research relative to small animal models due to their overlapping similarities in structure and function that more closely mimic the human body. Cutaneous wound healing, bone regeneration, osteoarthritis, ischemic reperfusion injury, and mastitis recovery represent a few examples of the types of disease states that may be investigated in livestock using MSC-based therapy. Although the cost of agricultural animals is greater than small animal models, the information gained using livestock as a model holds great value for human applications, and in some cases, outcompetes the weight of information gained from rodent models. With emerging fields such as exosome-based therapy, proper in vivo models will be needed for testing efficacy and translational practice, i.e., livestock models should be strongly considered as candidates. The potential for capitalizing on areas that have crossover benefits for both agricultural economic gain and improved health of the animals while minimizing the gap between translational research and clinical practice are what make livestock great choices for experimental MSC models.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Harness
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, One Shields Ave, Davis, CA, USA
| | - N Mohamad-Fauzi
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science
- Institute of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Institute for Advanced Studies, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, MALAYSIA
| | - J D Murray
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, One Shields Ave, Davis, CA, USA
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, University of California, Davis, One Shields Ave, Davis, CA, USA
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11
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Bernabò N, Di Berardino C, Capacchietti G, Peserico A, Buoncuore G, Tosi U, Crociati M, Monaci M, Barboni B. In Vitro Folliculogenesis in Mammalian Models: A Computational Biology Study. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:737912. [PMID: 34859047 PMCID: PMC8630647 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.737912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro folliculogenesis (ivF) has been proposed as an emerging technology to support follicle growth and oocyte development. It holds a great deal of attraction from preserving human fertility to improving animal reproductive biotechnology. Despite the mice model, where live offspring have been achieved,in medium-sized mammals, ivF has not been validated yet. Thus, the employment of a network theory approach has been proposed for interpreting the large amount of ivF information collected to date in different mammalian models in order to identify the controllers of the in vitro system. The WoS-derived data generated a scale-free network, easily navigable including 641 nodes and 2089 links. A limited number of controllers (7.2%) are responsible for network robustness by preserving it against random damage. The network nodes were stratified in a coherent biological manner on three layers: the input was composed of systemic hormones and somatic-oocyte paracrine factors; the intermediate one recognized mainly key signaling molecules such as PI3K, KL, JAK-STAT, SMAD4, and cAMP; and the output layer molecules were related to functional ivF endpoints such as the FSH receptor and steroidogenesis. Notably, the phenotypes of knock-out mice previously developed for hub.BN indirectly corroborate their biological relevance in early folliculogenesis. Finally, taking advantage of the STRING analysis approach, further controllers belonging to the metabolic axis backbone were identified, such as mTOR/FOXO, FOXO3/SIRT1, and VEGF, which have been poorly considered in ivF to date. Overall, this in silico study identifies new metabolic sensor molecules controlling ivF serving as a basis for designing innovative diagnostic and treatment methods to preserve female fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Bernabò
- Unit of Basic and Applied Biosciences, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
- National Research Council, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Alessia Peserico
- Unit of Basic and Applied Biosciences, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Giorgia Buoncuore
- Unit of Basic and Applied Biosciences, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Umberto Tosi
- Unit of Basic and Applied Biosciences, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Martina Crociati
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
- Centre for Perinatal and Reproductive Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Maurizio Monaci
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
- Centre for Perinatal and Reproductive Medicine, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Barbara Barboni
- Unit of Basic and Applied Biosciences, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
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12
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Flores-Santin J, Burggren WW. Beyond the Chicken: Alternative Avian Models for Developmental Physiological Research. Front Physiol 2021; 12:712633. [PMID: 34744759 PMCID: PMC8566884 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.712633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomedical research focusing on physiological, morphological, behavioral, and other aspects of development has long depended upon the chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) as a key animal model that is presumed to be typical of birds and generally applicable to mammals. Yet, the modern chicken in its many forms is the result of artificial selection more intense than almost any other domesticated animal. A consequence of great variation in genotype and phenotype is that some breeds have inherent aberrant physiological and morphological traits that may show up relatively early in development (e.g., hypertension, hyperglycemia, and limb defects in the broiler chickens). While such traits can be useful as models of specific diseases, this high degree of specialization can color general experimental results and affect their translational value. Against this background, in this review we first consider the characteristics that make an animal model attractive for developmental research (e.g., accessibility, ease of rearing, size, fecundity, development rates, genetic variation, etc.). We then explore opportunities presented by the embryo to adult continuum of alternative bird models, including quail, ratites, songbirds, birds of prey, and corvids. We conclude by indicating that expanding developmental studies beyond the chicken model to include additional avian groups will both validate the chicken model as well as potentially identify even more suitable avian models for answering questions applicable to both basic biology and the human condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josele Flores-Santin
- Facultad de Ciencias, Biologia, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Mexico, Toluca, Mexico
| | - Warren W Burggren
- Developmental Integrative Biology Research Group, Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Texas Denton, Denton, TX, United States
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13
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Kuthyar S, Reese AT. Variation in Microbial Exposure at the Human-Animal Interface and the Implications for Microbiome-Mediated Health Outcome. mSystems 2021; 6:e0056721. [PMID: 34342530 PMCID: PMC8407385 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.00567-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The human gut microbiome varies between populations, largely reflecting ecological differences. One ecological variable that is rarely considered but may contribute substantially to microbiome variation is the multifaceted nature of human-animal interfaces. We present the hypothesis that different interactions with animals contribute to shaping the human microbiome globally. We utilize a One Health framework to explore how changes in microbial exposure from human-animal interfaces shape the microbiome and, in turn, contribute to differential human health across populations, focusing on commensal and pathogen exposure, changes in colonization resistance and immune system training, and the potential for other functional shifts. Although human-animal interfaces are known to underlie human health and particularly infectious disease disparities, since their impact on the human microbiome remains woefully understudied, we propose foci for future research. We believe it will be crucial to understand this critical aspect of biology and its impacts on human health around the globe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahana Kuthyar
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Aspen T. Reese
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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14
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Schmidt T, Ferrara F, Pobloth AM, Jeuthe S. Large Farm Animals Used for Research Purposes: A Survey on Purchase, Housing and Hygiene Management. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11082158. [PMID: 34438616 PMCID: PMC8388472 DOI: 10.3390/ani11082158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The use of farm animals, especially in biomedical research, has increased in recent years. As clear recommendations for the purchase, housing and health monitoring of these animals (sheep, goat, cattle and pigs) are still missing, many institutes have developed their own strategies and protocols to face the challenges associated with the use of farm animals. This may influence the comparability of research results and increase data variances, thus increasing animal use that contradicts the obligation to apply the 3Rs principle required in Directive 2010/63 EU and our national animal welfare law. Therefore, this survey aimed to define the current state of the art in research institutes working with farm animals in order to develop recommendations for the purchase, housing and hygiene management of farm animals used for research purposes; to refine the work with farm animals; and to reduce variability and, therefore, the number of animals required. Abstract Background: Farm animals (FAs) are frequently used in biomedical research. Recommendations for the purchase, housing and health monitoring of these animals (sheep, goats, cattle and pigs) are still missing, and many institutes have developed their own strategies and protocols to face the challenges associated with the use of farm animals. This may influence the comparability of research results and increase data variances, thus increasing animal use that contradicts the obligation to apply the 3Rs principle of reduction, refinement and replacement required in Directive 2010/63 EU and the German animal protection law. Methods: A survey was conducted to define the current state of the art in research institutes working with pigs, and large and small ruminants. Results: The results of the survey clearly show that there are no uniform procedures regarding the purchase, housing and hygiene management of farm animals contrary to small laboratory animals. The facilities make purpose-bound decisions according to their own needs and individual work instructions and implement their own useful protocols to improve and maintain the health of the animals. Conclusion: This survey was the first step to filling the gaps and identifying the status quo and practical applied measures regarding the purchase and hygiene monitoring of FAs in order to improve animal welfare and scientific validity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Schmidt
- Institute for Animal Welfare, Animal Behavior and Laboratory Animal Science, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
- Correspondence:
| | - Fabienne Ferrara
- Consulting and Training in Laboratory Animal Science, 10589 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Anne-Marie Pobloth
- Julius Wolff Institute, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 13353 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Sarah Jeuthe
- Max-Delbrück Centrum Berlin, 13125 Berlin, Germany;
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15
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Thuwanut P, Comizzoli P, Pimpin A, Srituravanich W, Sereepapong W, Pruksananonda K, Taweepolcharoen C, Tuntiviriyapun P, Suebthawinkul C, Sirayapiwat P. Influence of hydrogel encapsulation during cryopreservation of ovarian tissues and impact of post-thawing in vitro culture systems in a research animal model. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2021; 48:111-123. [PMID: 34024082 PMCID: PMC8176157 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2020.04056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Using domestic cats as a biomedical research model for fertility preservation, the present study aimed to characterize the influences of ovarian tissue encapsulation in biodegradable hydrogel matrix (fibrinogen/thrombin) on resilience to cryopreservation, and static versus non-static culture systems following ovarian tissue encapsulation and cryopreservation on follicle quality. Methods In experiment I, ovarian tissues (n=21 animals; 567 ovarian fragments) were assigned to controls or hydrogel encapsulation with 5 or 10 mg/mL fibrinogen (5 or 10 FG). Following cryopreservation (slow freezing or vitrification), follicle viability, morphology, density, and key protein phosphorylation were assessed. In experiment II (based on the findings from experiment I), ovarian tissues (n=10 animals; 270 ovarian fragments) were encapsulated with 10 FG, cryopreserved, and in vitro cultured under static or non-static systems for 7 days followed by similar follicle quality assessments. Results In experiment I, the combination of 10 FG encapsulation/slow freezing led to greater post-thawed follicle quality than in the control group, as shown by follicle viability (66.9%±2.2% vs. 61.5%±3.1%), normal follicle morphology (62.2%±2.1% vs. 55.2%±3.5%), and the relative band intensity of vascular endothelial growth factor protein phosphorylation (0.58±0.06 vs. 0.42±0.09). Experiment II demonstrated that hydrogel encapsulation promoted follicle survival and maintenance of follicle development regardless of the culture system when compared to fresh controls. Conclusion These results provide a better understanding of the role of hydrogel encapsulation and culture systems in ovarian tissue cryopreservation and follicle quality outcomes using an animal model, paving the way for optimized approaches to human fertility preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweena Thuwanut
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Research Unit of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Alongkorn Pimpin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Weerayut Srituravanich
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wisan Sereepapong
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Research Unit of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kamthorn Pruksananonda
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Research Unit of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Charoen Taweepolcharoen
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Research Unit of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Punkavee Tuntiviriyapun
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Research Unit of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chanakarn Suebthawinkul
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Research Unit of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Porntip Sirayapiwat
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Research Unit of Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Abstract
Genetically modified animals, especially rodents, are widely used in biomedical research. However, non-rodent models are required for efficient translational medicine and preclinical studies. Owing to the similarity in the physiological traits of pigs and humans, genetically modified pigs may be a valuable resource for biomedical research. Somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) using genetically modified somatic cells has been the primary method for the generation of genetically modified pigs. However, site-specific gene modification in porcine cells is inefficient and requires laborious and time-consuming processes. Recent improvements in gene-editing systems, such as zinc finger nucleases, transcription activator-like effector nucleases, and the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein (CRISPR/Cas) system, represent major advances. The efficient introduction of site-specific modifications into cells via gene editors dramatically reduces the effort and time required to generate genetically modified pigs. Furthermore, gene editors enable direct gene modification during embryogenesis, bypassing the SCNT procedure. The application of gene editors has progressively expanded, and a range of strategies is now available for porcine gene engineering. This review provides an overview of approaches for the generation of genetically modified pigs using gene editors, and highlights the current trends, as well as the limitations, of gene editing in pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuminori Tanihara
- Faculty of Bioscience and Bioindustry, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8513, Japan.,Center for Development of Advanced Medical Technology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan
| | - Maki Hirata
- Faculty of Bioscience and Bioindustry, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8513, Japan
| | - Takeshige Otoi
- Faculty of Bioscience and Bioindustry, Tokushima University, Tokushima 770-8513, Japan
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17
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Deng Y, Ma M, Guo G, Tang Z. Kirenol regulates the cell proliferative and inflammatory markers in DMBA-induced oral squamous cell carcinogenesis in hamster. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2021; 36:328-338. [PMID: 33044773 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This present findings hypothesized the modulatory effects of kirenol on expression pattern of cell proliferative and inflammatory markers during DMBA induced HBP carcinogenesis. The machinery pathways for chemomodulatory effect of kirenol was investigated by analyzing the levels of antioxidants histological changes, lipid peroxidation and molecular expression pathway of PCNA, NF-κB in the DMBA only painted HBPC. Oral cancer was developed in the HBP model by DMBA (0.5%) three times a week for 14th weeks. We analyzed body weight with deregulated molecular expressions pattern of PCNA and NF-κB was noticed in the DMBA induced hamsters compared to control hamsters. Oral administration of kirenol 30 mg/kg bw, to DMBA induced hamster models reverted the activity of the biochemical markers in Group 4. Besides, tumor tissues of hamsters receive antioxidant capability from kirenol exclaimed significant modifications in DMBA induced causes: inhibits cell proliferation (inhibits PCNA expression) and suppresses inflammation (decreased NF-κB expression) of markers. Taken together, the protective effect of that kirenol an augmenting inflammation of the started cells and exhibited antiproliferative, anti-inflammatory, antilipid peroxidative and restores the xenobiotic enzymes levels (phase I and II) system and enhances antioxidant properties in oral carcinoma hamsters, in which turn, is reflected diminished tumor burden, volume, and multiplicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunzhen Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Shaanxi International Joint Research Center for Oral Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Department of General Dentistry and Emergency, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Min Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & Shaanxi International Joint Research Center for Oral Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
- Department of General Dentistry and Emergency, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Gang Guo
- Department of Talent Highland, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiao Tong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhen Tang
- Fuzhou Medical Department of Nanchang University, Fuzhou, China
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18
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The Role of Offspring Genotype-By-Sex Interactions, Independently of Environmental Cues, on the Phenotype Traits of an Obese Swine Model. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:biology9120445. [PMID: 33291637 PMCID: PMC7761963 DOI: 10.3390/biology9120445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary The present study, comparing the postnatal development of purebred Iberian and crossbreds Iberian × Large White littermates born from purebred Iberian sows, allows us to discern phenotype traits driven by the genotype from features imposed by pre- and postnatal environment. The results obtained in this study support the well-known relevance of genotype but also evidence a paramount role of the interaction sex-by-genotype, with differential effects depending on the offspring genotype and sex. Abstract The present study aimed to assess the importance of offspring genotype on postnatal development, independently of confounding factors related to prenatal environment and postnatal lifestyle, using a translational model of obesity and metabolic syndrome (the Iberian pig). Hence, we compared two genotypes (purebred Iberian and crossbreds Iberian × Large White), produced in one single maternal environment (pure Iberian mothers) through artificial insemination of Iberian sows with Iberian and Large White heterospermic semen and maintained in the same conditions during postnatal development. The results indicate that, under same pre- and postnatal environments, the interaction genotype-by-sex has a determinant role on offspring phenotype (i.e., growth and development, metabolic and antioxidant status and fatty acid composition of different tissues). These results may set the basis for future preclinical and clinical research on the differences in the metabolic phenotype among genotypes.
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19
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Fryc K, Nowak A, Kij B, Kochan J, Bartlewski PM, Murawski M. Timing of cleavage divisions determined with time-lapse imaging is linked to blastocyst formation rates and quality of in vitro-produced ovine embryos. Theriogenology 2020; 159:147-152. [PMID: 33157452 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Time-lapse (TL) imaging provides a practical and safe tool to constantly monitor the development of in vitro-derived embryos. TL may help develop novel methods of predicting the timing of embryo cleavage that will lead to optimizing blastocyst cryopreservation or transfer. The primary objective of the present study was to employ TL imaging to examine associations among the division kinetics of ovine embryos, their quality and rates of development to the blastocyst stage. Oocytes were collected by ovary scarification from 78 Longwool ewes slaughtered in the breeding season (November-March). Cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) were matured for 24 h in TCM 199 media containing 0.1 IU/mL LH/FSH and 10% FBS. In-vitro fertilization was carried out by co-incubation of semen and COCs for 19 h. Presumptive zygotes were placed in microwells, in droplets of Cult medium (Gynemed, Lensahn, Germany). Digital images of developing embryos were captured every 10 min by Primo Vision TL system (EVO+; Vitrolife, Göteburg, Sweden). The following time intervals were recorded: from IVF to the attainment of two-cell (t2), three-cells (t3) or four-cell (t4) stage, to morula detection (tM), blastulation (tSB) and blastocyst formation (tB). Lastly, the duration of the second cell cycle (cc2; t3-t2) and complete synchronous cell division (s2; t4-t3) were calculated, and the incidence of developmental anomalies noted. Out of 147 embryos selected for TL observations, 55 (37.4%) developed to the blastocyst stage (normally developing embryos, NE) and 92 (62.6%) failed to reach the blastocyst stage (arrested embryos, AE; P < 0.05). Mean t2, tM, s2 and cc2 were all less (P ≤ 0.02) in NE compared with AE. Approximately 61.9% of embryos exhibited developmental anomalies (35.5% in the NE group and 78.2% in the AE group; P < 0.05) and AE exceeded (P < 0.05) NE in the proportion of FRG (blastomeric fragmentation), IRR (blastomeres of irregular size after cleavage), DC (direct cleavage) and MA (multi-morphological aberrations). Of all NE, 63.6% were classified as good quality and 36.4% as poor quality blastocysts (P < 0.05). Good quality ovine blastocysts attained t2, t3, t4, tSB and tB stages earlier (P ≤ 0.03) than poor quality blastocysts and none of the poor quality blastocysts was seen to hatch. To recapitulate, the present results indicate that the kinetics of early ovine embryo development are significant predictors of their potential to develop to the blastocyst stage and the markers of blastocyst quality. Time-lapse imaging may serve as a useful technique for predicting the outcome and enhancing efficacy of in vitro embryo production in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Fryc
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Biotechnology, and Fisheries, University of Agriculture in Kraków, 24/28 Mickiewicza Ave., 30-059, Cracow, Poland.
| | - Agnieszka Nowak
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Anatomy and Genomics, University of Agriculture in Kraków, 24/28 Mickiewicza Ave., 30-059, Cracow, Poland
| | - Barbara Kij
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Anatomy and Genomics, University of Agriculture in Kraków, 24/28 Mickiewicza Ave., 30-059, Cracow, Poland
| | - Joanna Kochan
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Anatomy and Genomics, University of Agriculture in Kraków, 24/28 Mickiewicza Ave., 30-059, Cracow, Poland
| | - Pawel M Bartlewski
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd., Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Maciej Murawski
- Department of Animal Nutrition and Biotechnology, and Fisheries, University of Agriculture in Kraków, 24/28 Mickiewicza Ave., 30-059, Cracow, Poland
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20
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Protective Effect of Hydroxytyrosol on LPS-Induced Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Bovine Endometrial Epithelial Cell Line. Vet Sci 2020; 7:vetsci7040161. [PMID: 33114084 PMCID: PMC7712648 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci7040161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Bovine endometritis is a serious pathogen-induced infectious disease that affects the physiological processes of estrus, pregnancy and the postpartum condition. The inflamed endometrium responds by activating an inflammatory intracellular signaling cascade that leads to increased expression of proinflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Oxidative stress is closely related to several pathological conditions in perinatal dairy cows and play a key role in tissue damage. Hydroxytyrosol (HT), a natural phenolic alcohol with a strong antioxidant activity, displayed a wide range of biological effect. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effects of HT in an in vitro model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in bovine uterine endometrial cells. Our results showed that HT had a significant protective effect in LPS-induced inflammation and oxidative stress. HT was also able to increase the capacity of endogenous antioxidant systems through the up-regulation of the NRF2 pathway. Furthermore, HT restored the tight junction protein expressions. In conclusion, our results showed the protective effects of HT in LPS-stimulated BEND cells. Therefore, the results of this study suggest an important protective role of HT in the treatment and prevention of uterine pathologies in dairy cows.
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21
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Berset Convenor FWGOFACM, Caristo ME, Ferrara F, Hardy P, Oropeza-Moe M, Waters R. Federation of European Laboratory Animal Science Associations recommendations of best practices for the health management of ruminants and pigs used for scientific and educational purposes. Lab Anim 2020; 55:117-128. [PMID: 32772790 PMCID: PMC8044623 DOI: 10.1177/0023677220944461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Most ruminants and pigs used for scientific and educational aims are bred not for these purposes but in a farm environment. Given the wide range of diseases that these species might have, ensuring that the animals' health status is appropriate can be complex and challenging. The Federation of European Laboratory Animal Science Associations has previously published recommendations for the health monitoring of experimental colonies of pigs (1998) and, respectively, calves, sheep and goats (2000). Unfortunately, the uptake of those recommendations was poor and insufficiently reported in scientific publications. These new recommendations for best practice focus on the main species of ruminants (cattle, sheep and goats) and pigs. They provide general and specific information helpful for designing a health management programme for the suppliers and for the user establishments, as well as guidance on animal procurement. Critical thinking based on the fields of use of the animals is promoted, aiming to help in taking informed decisions rather than establishing an exhaustive exclusion list for pathogens. Implementing the best health and welfare management practices should be done under the guidance of a competent attending veterinarian, with expertise and sufficient authority to take the appropriate action, doubled by excellent communication skills. It is strongly recommended that the user establishment's veterinarian works in close collaboration with the supplier's veterinarian.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Patrick Hardy
- Veterinary and Professional Services, Allentown France, France
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22
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Metformin Alleviates Obesity and Systemic Oxidative Stress in Obese Young Swine. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2020; 13:ph13070142. [PMID: 32640543 PMCID: PMC7408130 DOI: 10.3390/ph13070142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study assessed the relationship between obesity induced by lifestyle and systemic oxidative stress and possible modulations by oral metformin treatments in young individuals, by using a translational swine model of obesity and associated cardiometabolic disorders (Iberian pig). The results indicate the existence of an age-related increase in both adiposity and systemic oxidative stress (using hydrogen peroxide as a marker), which is higher in individuals with obesogenic lifestyle and increased weight and obesity. Such effect was not found in individuals treated with metformin. The translation of these results suggests that childhood obesity increases production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and therefore systemic oxidative stress. Treatment with metformin would improve such oxidative status.
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23
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Rizeq B, Malki MI. The Role of CCL21/CCR7 Chemokine Axis in Breast Cancer Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E1036. [PMID: 32340161 PMCID: PMC7226115 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12041036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, predominantly caused by metastasis. It is generally accepted that the pattern of breast cancer metastasis is largely determined by the interaction between the chemokine receptors on cancer cells and the chemokines expressed at the sites of metastatic disease. Chemokine receptors belong to the G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) family that appear to be implicated in inflammatory diseases, tumor growth and metastasis. One of its members, C-C Chemokine receptor 7 (CCR7), binds chemokines CCL19 and CCL21, which are important for tissue homeostasis, immune surveillance and tumorigenesis. These receptors have been shown to induce the pathobiology of breast cancer due to their ability to induce cellular proliferation and migration upon the binding of the cognate chemokine receptors. The underlying signaling pathways and exact cellular interactions within this biological system are not fully understood and need further insights. Thus, in this review, we summarize the essential roles of CCR7 and its receptors in breast cancer progression. Furthermore, we discuss the mechanisms of regulation that may lead to novel opportunities for therapeutic intervention. Despite the enormous advances in our knowledge of the nature of the chemokines in breast cancer metastasis, research about the involvement of CCR7 in cancer progression is still limited. Therefore, further studies are essential to illustrate the distinct roles of CCR7 in cancer progression and validate its potential as a preventive bio-factor for human breast cancer metastasis by targeting chemokine receptor genes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohammed Imad Malki
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P. O. Box. 2713, Doha, Qatar;
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Yapijakis C, Kalogera S, Papakosta V, Vassiliou S. The Hamster Model of Sequential Oral Carcinogenesis: An Update. In Vivo 2020; 33:1751-1755. [PMID: 31662499 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.11665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Animal models are valuable tools for studying human cancer as well as for preclinical trials. The hamster model of chemically induced sequential oral carcinogenesis was developed by our group a decade ago in order to study the multistep process of alterations in gene expression during carcinogenesis. The purpose of this review was to discuss the utility of the hamster model of sequential oral carcinogenesis regarding the deciphering of the main pathways altered. An extended search for articles that cited that specific animal models was performed. Many studies have used the hamster model of sequential oral carcinogenesis either for evaluation of the expression of biomarkers alone, or for applying chemopreventive compounds and other therapeutic methods, or combining the use of biomarkers with the anticancer effect of some compounds. It seems that this animal model is indeed a useful tool that enables the study of cell biology, pathology and therapeutics of oral cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christos Yapijakis
- First Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aghia Sophia Hospital, Athens, Greece .,Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Attikon Hospital, Athens, Greece.,Department of Molecular Genetics, Cephalogenetics Diagnostic Center, Athens, Greece
| | - Stefania Kalogera
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Cephalogenetics Diagnostic Center, Athens, Greece
| | - Veronica Papakosta
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Attikon Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Stavros Vassiliou
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Attikon Hospital, Athens, Greece
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Meyerholz DK, Beck AP. Fundamental Concepts for Semiquantitative Tissue Scoring in Translational Research. ILAR J 2019; 59:13-17. [PMID: 30715381 PMCID: PMC6927897 DOI: 10.1093/ilar/ily025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Revised: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Failure to reproduce results from some scientific studies has raised awareness of the critical need for reproducibility in translational studies. Macroscopic and microscopic examination is a common approach to determine changes in tissues, but text descriptions and visual images have limitations for group comparisons. Semiquantitative scoring is a way of transforming qualitative tissue data into numerical data that allow more robust group comparisons. Semiquantitative scoring has broad uses in preclinical and clinical studies for evaluation of tissue lesions. Reproducibility can be improved by constraining bias through appropriate experimental design, randomization of tissues, effective use of multidisciplinary collaborations, and valid masking procedures. Scoring can be applied to tissue lesions (eg, size, distribution, characteristics) and also to tissues through evaluation of staining distribution and intensity. Semiquantitative scores should be validated to demonstrate relevance to biological data and to demonstrate observer reproducibility. Statistical analysis should make use of appropriate tests to give robust confidence in the results and interpretations. Following key principles of semiquantitative scoring will not only enhance descriptive tissue evaluation but also improve quality, reproducibility, and rigor of tissue studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- David K Meyerholz
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Amanda P Beck
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
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Hill ABT, Bressan FF, Murphy BD, Garcia JM. Applications of mesenchymal stem cell technology in bovine species. Stem Cell Res Ther 2019; 10:44. [PMID: 30678726 PMCID: PMC6345009 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-019-1145-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have received a great deal of attention over the past 20 years mainly because of the results that showed regeneration potential and plasticity that were much stronger than expected in prior decades. Recent findings in this field have contributed to progress in the establishment of cell differentiation methods, which have made stem cell therapy more clinically attractive. In addition, MSCs are easy to isolate and have anti-inflammatory and angiogenic capabilities. The use of stem cell therapy is currently supported by scientific literature in the treatment of several animal health conditions. MSC may be administered for autologous or allogenic therapy following either a fresh isolation or a thawing of a previously frozen culture. Despite the fact that MSCs have been widely used for the treatment of companion and sport animals, little is known about their clinical and biotechnological potential in the economically relevant livestock industry. This review focuses on describing the key characteristics of potential applications of MSC therapy in livestock production and explores the themes such as the concept, culture, and characterization of mesenchymal stem cells; bovine mesenchymal stem cell isolation; applications and perspectives on commercial interests and farm relevance of MSC in bovine species; and applications in translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Baracho Trindade Hill
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Reproduction, São Paulo State University, Via de Acesso Professor Paulo Donato Castelane - Vila Industrial, s/n, Jaboticabal, SP, 14884-900, Brazil. .,Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 7C6, Canada.
| | - Fabiana Fernandes Bressan
- Campus Fernando Costa, University of São Paulo, Av. Duque de Caxias Norte, 225 - Zona Rural, Pirassununga, SP, 13635-900, Brazil
| | - Bruce D Murphy
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction et Fertilité, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 7C6, Canada
| | - Joaquim Mansano Garcia
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Reproduction, São Paulo State University, Via de Acesso Professor Paulo Donato Castelane - Vila Industrial, s/n, Jaboticabal, SP, 14884-900, Brazil
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Eicosanoid pathway expression in bovine endometrial epithelial and stromal cells in response to lipopolysaccharide, interleukin 1 beta, and tumor necrosis factor alpha. Reprod Biol 2018; 18:390-396. [PMID: 30344089 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2018.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
During endometrial inflammation, bovine endometrium responds by increasing the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), and eicosanoids. The purpose of this study was to establish and characterize an in vitro model of endometrial inflammation using bovine endometrial epithelial (bEEL) and stromal (bCSC) cell lines. We evaluated the effects of the infectious agent (bacterial lipopolysaccharide; LPS) and pro-inflammatory mediators (IL-1β and TNFα) on eicosanoid biosynthesis pathway gene expression and production by bEEL and bCSC cells. Based on concentration-response experiments, the optimal concentrations for responses were 1 μg/mL LPS, 10 ng/mL IL-1β and 50 ng/mL TNFα. Real-time PCR results show that there was an upregulation of relative mRNA expression of PTGS2 when bEEL and bCSC were treated with LPS, IL-1β and TNFα. An increase in PTGES3 expression was observed when bEEL cells were treated with LPS and IL-1β and PTGES2 when treated with IL-1β. In bCSC cells, FAAH relative mRNA was decreased upon treatments. Rate of production of PGE2, PGF2α, PGE2-EA and PGF2α-EA were also determined using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Our results show that eicosanoid production was increased in both cell lines in response to LPS, IL-1β, and TNFα. We suggest that the characteristics of bEEL and bCSC cell lines mimic the physiological responses found in mammals with endometrial infection, making them excellent in vitro models for intrauterine environment studies.
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Koh YQ, Mitchell MD, Almughlliq FB, Vaswani K, Peiris HN. Regulation of inflammatory mediator expression in bovine endometrial cells: effects of lipopolysaccharide, interleukin 1 beta, and tumor necrosis factor alpha. Physiol Rep 2018; 6:e13676. [PMID: 29707922 PMCID: PMC5925570 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.13676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Revised: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
An abnormal uterine environment can influence maternal-fetal communication, conception rate and disrupt normal embryo development, thereby affecting fertility and the reproductive performance of dairy cows. Animal variability means that development of endometrial cell lines with appropriate characteristic are required. We evaluated the effect of an infectious agent (i.e., bacterial lipopolysaccharide; LPS) and proinflammatory mediators (i.e., Interleukin 1 beta; IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor alpha; TNFα) on inflammatory mediator gene expression and production by bovine endometrial epithelial (bEEL) and stromal (bCSC) cell lines. Expression of CXCL8/IL8, IL1A, IL1B, and IL6 cytokine genes was significantly upregulated in both epithelial and stromal cells when treated with LPS and IL-1β. LPS treatment of epithelial cells (compared with treatment by IL-1β and TNFα) exhibited greater CXCL8/IL8, IL1A, IL1B, and IL6 cytokine gene expression. Whereas, in stromal cells, IL-1β treatment (compared with LPS and TNFα) exhibited greater CXCL8/IL8, IL1A, IL1B, and IL6 cytokine gene expression. Interestingly, bEEL and bCSC cells treated with IL-1β increased IL1B gene expression, suggesting that IL-1β may act unusually in an autocrine-positive feedback loop. Cytokine production was stimulated by these agents in both cell types. We suggest that the characteristics of these two cell lines make them excellent tools for the study of intrauterine environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Qin Koh
- University of Queensland Centre for Clinical ResearchFaculty of MedicineThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Murray D. Mitchell
- University of Queensland Centre for Clinical ResearchFaculty of MedicineThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Fatema B. Almughlliq
- University of Queensland Centre for Clinical ResearchFaculty of MedicineThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Kanchan Vaswani
- University of Queensland Centre for Clinical ResearchFaculty of MedicineThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
| | - Hassendrini N. Peiris
- University of Queensland Centre for Clinical ResearchFaculty of MedicineThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
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29
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Solano-Aguilar GI, Lakshman S, Jang S, Beshah E, Xie Y, Sikaroodi M, Gupta R, Vinyard B, Molokin A, Urban JF, Gillevet P, Davis CD. The Effect of Feeding Cocoa Powder and Lactobacillus rhamnosus on the Composition and Function of Pig Intestinal Microbiome. Curr Dev Nutr 2018; 2:nzy011. [PMID: 30019034 PMCID: PMC6041806 DOI: 10.1093/cdn/nzy011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Revised: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dietary habits have been linked with variability of gut microbiota composition and disease risk. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of feeding a cocoa powder with or without a probiotic on the composition and function of the fecal microbiome of pigs. METHODS Four groups of 8 pigs each were fed a standard growth diet supplemented with cocoa powder, Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG), cocoa powder + LGG, or an equal amount of fiber similar to that found in cocoa powder (control group). Fecal samples were collected prior to and 4 wk after initiation of the dietary intervention. Microbiota composition was determined after amplification of the first 2 variable regions of the 16S ribosomal DNA (rDNA). Predictions of metagenomic function were calculated using 16S rDNA sequence data through Phylogenetic Investigation of Communities by Reconstruction of Unobserved States (PICRUSt). RESULTS After 4 wk of treatment, bacterial abundance analysis demonstrated a prebiotic effect of cocoa powder on endogenous Bifidobacteriaceae and Lactobacillaceae and increased abundance of saccharolytic butyrate-producing bacteria like Roseburia. An increased bacterial evenness, Shannon diversity index, and diverse metabolic profile were detected in microbiomes of pigs fed the cocoa powder + LGG (P < 0.05) but not in pigs in the other 3 groups. CONCLUSION The data generated from this work demonstrated that 4-wk dietary treatment with cocoa powder alone or in combination with LGG probiotic had an impact on the composition and function of the fecal microbiota of healthy pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria I Solano-Aguilar
- Diet, Genomics and Immunology Laboratory, Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, Northeast Area, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD
| | - Sukla Lakshman
- Diet, Genomics and Immunology Laboratory, Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, Northeast Area, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD
| | - Saebyeol Jang
- Diet, Genomics and Immunology Laboratory, Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, Northeast Area, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD
| | - Ethiopia Beshah
- Diet, Genomics and Immunology Laboratory, Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, Northeast Area, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD
| | - Yue Xie
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | | | - Richi Gupta
- Microbiome Analysis Center, George Mason University, Manassas, VA
| | - Bryan Vinyard
- Biometrical Consulting Services, Agricultural Research Service, Northeast Area, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD
| | - Aleksey Molokin
- Diet, Genomics and Immunology Laboratory, Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, Northeast Area, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD
| | - Joseph F Urban
- Diet, Genomics and Immunology Laboratory, Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, Northeast Area, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD
| | - Patrick Gillevet
- Microbiome Analysis Center, George Mason University, Manassas, VA
| | - Cindy D Davis
- Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
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Perleberg C, Kind A, Schnieke A. Genetically engineered pigs as models for human disease. Dis Model Mech 2018; 11:11/1/dmm030783. [PMID: 29419487 PMCID: PMC5818075 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.030783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetically modified animals are vital for gaining a proper understanding of disease mechanisms. Mice have long been the mainstay of basic research into a wide variety of diseases but are not always the most suitable means of translating basic knowledge into clinical application. The shortcomings of rodent preclinical studies are widely recognised, and regulatory agencies around the world now require preclinical trial data from nonrodent species. Pigs are well suited to biomedical research, sharing many similarities with humans, including body size, anatomical features, physiology and pathophysiology, and they already play an important role in translational studies. This role is set to increase as advanced genetic techniques simplify the generation of pigs with precisely tailored modifications designed to replicate lesions responsible for human disease. This article provides an overview of the most promising and clinically relevant genetically modified porcine models of human disease for translational biomedical research, including cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes mellitus, Alzheimer's disease, cystic fibrosis and Duchenne muscular dystrophy. We briefly summarise the technologies involved and consider the future impact of recent technical advances. Summary: An overview of porcine models of human disease, including cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes mellitus, Alzheimer's disease, cystic fibrosis and Duchenne muscular dystrophy. We summarise the technologies involved and potential future impact of recent technical advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin Perleberg
- Chair of Livestock Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Technische Universität München, 85354 Freising, Germany
| | - Alexander Kind
- Chair of Livestock Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Technische Universität München, 85354 Freising, Germany
| | - Angelika Schnieke
- Chair of Livestock Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Technische Universität München, 85354 Freising, Germany
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31
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McGrath DJ, Thiebes AL, Cornelissen CG, O'Brien B, Jockenhoevel S, Bruzzi M, McHugh PE. Evaluating the interaction of a tracheobronchial stent in an ovine in-vivo model. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2017; 17:499-516. [PMID: 29177931 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-017-0974-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Tracheobronchial stents are used to restore patency to stenosed airways. However, these devices are associated with many complications such as stent migration, granulation tissue formation, mucous plugging and stent strut fracture. Of these, granulation tissue formation is the complication that most frequently requires costly secondary interventions. In this study a biomechanical lung modelling framework recently developed by the authors to capture the lung in-vivo stress state under physiological loading is employed in conjunction with ovine pre-clinical stenting results and device experimental data to evaluate the effect of stent interaction on granulation tissue formation. Stenting is simulated using a validated model of a prototype covered laser-cut tracheobronchial stent in a semi-specific biomechanical lung model, and physiological loading is performed. Two computational methods are then used to predict possible granulation tissue formation: the standard method which utilises the increase in maximum principal stress change, and a newly proposed method which compares the change in contact pressure over a respiratory cycle. These computational predictions of granulation tissue formation are then compared to pre-clinical stenting observations after a 6-week implantation period. Experimental results of the pre-clinical stent implantation showed signs of granulation tissue formation both proximally and distally, with a greater proximal reaction. The standard method failed to show a correlation with the experimental results. However, the contact change method showed an apparent correlation with granulation tissue formation. These results suggest that this new method could be used as a tool to improve future device designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donnacha J McGrath
- Biomechanics Research Centre (BMEC), Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Informatics, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Anja Lena Thiebes
- Department of Biohybrid and Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME-Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ITA-Institut für Textiltechnik, RWTH Aachen University and at AMIBM Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands, Pauwelsstr. 20, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Christian G Cornelissen
- Department of Biohybrid and Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME-Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ITA-Institut für Textiltechnik, RWTH Aachen University and at AMIBM Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands, Pauwelsstr. 20, 52074, Aachen, Germany.,Department for Internal Medicine - Section for Pneumology, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Barry O'Brien
- Biomechanics Research Centre (BMEC), Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Informatics, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Stefan Jockenhoevel
- Department of Biohybrid and Medical Textiles (BioTex), AME-Helmholtz Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ITA-Institut für Textiltechnik, RWTH Aachen University and at AMIBM Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands, Pauwelsstr. 20, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Mark Bruzzi
- Biomechanics Research Centre (BMEC), Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Informatics, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Peter E McHugh
- Biomechanics Research Centre (BMEC), Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering and Informatics, NUI Galway, Galway, Ireland.
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Estrella CAS, Kind KL, Derks A, Xiang R, Faulkner N, Mohrdick M, Fitzsimmons C, Kruk Z, Grutzner F, Roberts CT, Hiendleder S. Remodelling of the bovine placenta: Comprehensive morphological and histomorphological characterization at the late embryonic and early accelerated fetal growth stages. Placenta 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2017.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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An ovine in vivo framework for tracheobronchial stent analysis. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2017; 16:1535-1553. [DOI: 10.1007/s10237-017-0904-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Zhang L, Huang Y, Wu Y, Si J, Huang Y, Jiang Q, Lan G, Guo Y, Jiang H. Scriptaid Upregulates Expression of Development-Related Genes, Inhibits Apoptosis, and Improves the Development of Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer Mini-Pig Embryos. Cell Reprogram 2017; 19:19-26. [DOI: 10.1089/cell.2016.0033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Yuemeng Huang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Yanjun Wu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Jinglei Si
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Yanna Huang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Qinyang Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Ganqiu Lan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Yafen Guo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Hesheng Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
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Gröning S, Maas J, van Geul S, Rossaint R, Steinseifer U, Grottke O. Coagulation Management in Jersey Calves: An ex vivo Study. Eur Surg Res 2017; 58:128-139. [PMID: 28125808 DOI: 10.1159/000455096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 12/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Jersey calves are frequently used as an experimental animal model for in vivo testing of cardiac assist devices or orthopedic implants. In this ex vivo study, we analyzed the coagulation system of the Jersey calves and the potential of human-based coagulation management to circumvent perioperative bleeding complications during surgery. Experimental Procedure: Blood from 7 Jersey calves was subjected to standard laboratory tests and thromboelastometry analysis. An ex vivo model of dilutional coagulopathy was used to study the effects of fibrinogen or prothrombin complex concentrate supplementation. Fibrinolysis was induced with tissue plasminogen activator to identify potential therapeutic strategies involving tranexamic acid or aprotinin. Furthermore, anticoagulation strategies were evaluated by incubating the blood samples with dabigatran or rivaroxaban. RESULTS Baseline values for thromboelastometry and standard laboratory parameters, including prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, fibrinogen, antithrombin III, and D-dimers, were established. Fifty percent diluted blood showed a statistically significant impairment of hemostasis. The parameters significantly improved after the administration of fibrinogen or prothrombin complex concentrate. Tranexamic acid and aprotinin ameliorated tissue plasminogen activator-induced fibrinolysis. Both dabigatran and rivaroxaban significantly prolonged the coagulation parameters. CONCLUSIONS In this ex vivo study, coagulation factors, factor concentrate, antifibrinolytic reagents, and anticoagulants regularly used in the clinic positively impacted coagulation parameters in Jersey calf blood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Gröning
- Department of Anaesthesiology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
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Polejaeva IA, Rutigliano HM, Wells KD. Livestock in biomedical research: history, current status and future prospective. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 28:112-24. [PMID: 27062879 DOI: 10.1071/rd15343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Livestock models have contributed significantly to biomedical and surgical advances. Their contribution is particularly prominent in the areas of physiology and assisted reproductive technologies, including understanding developmental processes and disorders, from ancient to modern times. Over the past 25 years, biomedical research that traditionally embraced a diverse species approach shifted to a small number of model species (e.g. mice and rats). The initial reasons for focusing the main efforts on the mouse were the availability of murine embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and genome sequence data. This powerful combination allowed for precise manipulation of the mouse genome (knockouts, knockins, transcriptional switches etc.) leading to ground-breaking discoveries on gene functions and regulation, and their role in health and disease. Despite the enormous contribution to biomedical research, mouse models have some major limitations. Their substantial differences compared with humans in body and organ size, lifespan and inbreeding result in pronounced metabolic, physiological and behavioural differences. Comparative studies of strategically chosen domestic species can complement mouse research and yield more rigorous findings. Because genome sequence and gene manipulation tools are now available for farm animals (cattle, pigs, sheep and goats), a larger number of livestock genetically engineered (GE) models will be accessible for biomedical research. This paper discusses the use of cattle, goats, sheep and pigs in biomedical research, provides an overview of transgenic technology in farm animals and highlights some of the beneficial characteristics of large animal models of human disease compared with the mouse. In addition, status and origin of current regulation of GE biomedical models is also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina A Polejaeva
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA
| | - Heloisa M Rutigliano
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA
| | - Kevin D Wells
- Division of Animal Sciences, Animal Sciences Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
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Abstract
This chapter provides an introduction to animals that are commonly used for research. It presents information on basic care topics such as biology, behavior, housing, feeding, sexing, and breeding of these animals. The chapter provides some insight into the reasons why these animals are used in research. It also gives an overview of techniques that can be utilized to collect blood or to administer drugs or medicine. Each section concludes with a brief description of how to recognize abnormal signs, in addition to lists of various diseases.
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Arnold CR, Kloss F, Singh S, Vasiljevic D, Stigler R, Auberger T, Wenzel V, Klima G, Lukas P, Lepperdinger G, Gassner R. A domestic porcine model for studying the effects of radiation on head and neck cancers. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol 2016; 123:536-543. [PMID: 28130028 DOI: 10.1016/j.oooo.2016.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2016] [Revised: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radiation therapy (RT) of the head and neck region is often accompanied by serious side effects. Research in this area is needed to improve treatment outcomes and ameliorate therapy tolerance. Laboratory rodents are barely matching today's clinical standards in RT research. Yet domestic swine (Sus scrofa domestica) have previously proved suitable for various advanced tests in clinical research and training. We therefore investigated whether S. scrofa domestica is also appropriate for irradiation of the mandible. STUDY DESIGN A common scheme for irradiation treatment of S. scrofa domestica mandibles in a split-mouth design was acquired by applying computed tomography (CT) scanning under sedation. Basing on close anatomic resemblance, a standard treatment plan comprising 2 opposed irradiation fields could be accomplished. RESULTS RT was carried out in a clinical environment with 2 × 9 Gy. The resulting operating procedure facilitated complication-free sedation, transport, positioning, CT scanning, and effective irradiation. CONCLUSION Based on common standards applied for RT in humans, domestic pigs can be employed to progress RT clinical research. Due to their human-like anatomy, physiology, size, and weight, the swine model is expedient for advancing experimental RT of the head and neck area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph R Arnold
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Frank Kloss
- Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | | | - Danijela Vasiljevic
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Robert Stigler
- Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Thomas Auberger
- Department of Radiotherapy-Radiooncology, Hospital Traunstein, Traunstein, Germany
| | - Volker Wenzel
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Günter Klima
- Division of Histology and Embryology, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Peter Lukas
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Günter Lepperdinger
- Institute for Biomedical Aging Research, Innsbruck, Austria; Department of Cell Biology, University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Robert Gassner
- Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
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Gonzalez-Bulnes A, Astiz S, Ovilo C, Lopez-Bote CJ, Torres-Rovira L, Barbero A, Ayuso M, Garcia-Contreras C, Vazquez-Gomez M. Developmental Origins of Health and Disease in swine: implications for animal production and biomedical research. Theriogenology 2016; 86:110-9. [PMID: 27238437 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2015] [Revised: 12/02/2015] [Accepted: 01/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The concept of Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) addresses, from a large set of epidemiological evidences in human beings and translational studies in animal models, both the importance of genetic predisposition and the determinant role of maternal nutrition during pregnancy on adult morphomics and homeostasis. Compelling evidences suggest that both overnutrition and undernutrition may modify the intrauterine environment of the conceptus and may alter the expression of its genome and therefore its phenotype during prenatal and postnatal life. In fact, the DOHaD concept is an extreme shift in the vision of the factors conditioning adult phenotype and supposes a drastic change from a gene-centric perspective, only modified by lifestyle and nutritional strategies during juvenile development and adulthood, to a more holistic approach in which environmental, parental, and prenatal conditions are strongly determining postnatal development and homeostasis. The implications of DOHaD are profound in all the mammalian species and the present review summarizes current knowledge on causes and consequences of DOHaD in pigs, both for meat production and as a well-recognized model for biomedicine research.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Gonzalez-Bulnes
- Comparative Physiology Lab-RA, SGIT-INIA, Madrid, Spain; Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy.
| | - S Astiz
- Comparative Physiology Lab-RA, SGIT-INIA, Madrid, Spain
| | - C Ovilo
- Department of Animal Genetics, SGIT-INIA, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - L Torres-Rovira
- Comparative Physiology Lab-RA, SGIT-INIA, Madrid, Spain; INRA, UMR1198 Biologie du Développement et Reproduction, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - A Barbero
- Faculty of Veterinary, UCM, Madrid, Spain
| | - M Ayuso
- Faculty of Veterinary, UCM, Madrid, Spain
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Magistrelli D, Zanchi R, Malagutti L, Galassi G, Canzi E, Rosi F. Effects of Cocoa Husk Feeding on the Composition of Swine Intestinal Microbiota. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2016; 64:2046-2052. [PMID: 26877143 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.5b05732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
A two-diet/two-period change over experiment was performed to investigate the effects of cocoa husks, as a source of dietary fiber and polyphenols, on pig intestinal microbial composition. Six pigs were fed a conventional cereal-based diet or a diet obtained by substitution of 7.5% of the conventional diet with cocoa husks for 3 weeks. Experimental diets were isoproteic and isoenergetic. At the end of each 3 week testing period, samples of fresh feces were collected and analyzed for microbial composition by fluorescence in situ hybridization. Cocoa husks did not affect feed intake, weight gain, and feed efficiency. Analysis of fecal microbial populations, grouped by phyla, showed a decrease of Firmicutes and an increase of Bacteroidetes in cocoa husk-fed pigs. Particularly, cocoa husks reduced fecal populations of the Lactobacillus-Enterococcus group and Clostridium histolyticum and increased the Bacteroides-Prevotella group and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, suggesting a potential for cocoa husks in the improvement of intestinal microbial balance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damiano Magistrelli
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and ‡Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences, University of Milan , via G. Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Zanchi
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and ‡Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences, University of Milan , via G. Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Malagutti
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and ‡Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences, University of Milan , via G. Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluca Galassi
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and ‡Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences, University of Milan , via G. Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Enrica Canzi
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and ‡Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences, University of Milan , via G. Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Fabia Rosi
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and ‡Department of Food, Environmental and Nutritional Sciences, University of Milan , via G. Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy
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41
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Gonzalez-Bulnes A, Astiz S, Vazquez-Gomez M, Garcia-Contreras C. Developmental origins of metabolic disorders: The need for biomarker candidates and therapeutic targets from adequate preclinical models. EUPA OPEN PROTEOMICS 2016; 10:50-55. [PMID: 29900100 PMCID: PMC5988611 DOI: 10.1016/j.euprot.2016.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2015] [Revised: 12/20/2015] [Accepted: 01/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The research on obesity and associated disorders should rely on contrasted biomarkers. The discovery of biomarkers is flawed by inherent variability of human data. Hence, preclinical studies in animal models are essential.
The investigation on obesity and associated disorders have changed from an scenario in which genome drove the phenotype to a dynamic setup in which prenatal and early-postnatal conditions are determinant. However, research in human beings is difficult due to confounding factors (lifestyle and socioeconomic heterogeneity) plus ethical issues. Hence, there is currently an intensive effort for developing adequate preclinical models, aiming for an adequate combination of basic studies in rodent models and specific preclinical studies in large animals. The results of these research strategies may increase the identification and development of contrasted biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Gonzalez-Bulnes
- Comparative Physiology Lab-RA, SGIT-INIA, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Susana Astiz
- Comparative Physiology Lab-RA, SGIT-INIA, Madrid, Spain
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Zhu X, Nie J, Quan S, Xu H, Yang X, Lu Y, Lu K, Lu S. In vitro production of cloned and transgenically cloned embryos from Guangxi Huanjiang Xiang pig. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2015; 52:137-43. [PMID: 26559066 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-015-9957-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2015] [Accepted: 09/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Guangxi Huanjiang Xiang pig is a unique miniature pig strain that is originally from Huanjiang Maonan Autonomous County of Guangxi province, China, and shows great potential in agricultural and biomedical research. Although cloning and genetic modification of this pig would enhance its application value, cloning of this strain has not yet been reported. We sought to establish appropriate cloning procedures and produce transgenic embryos in Huanjiang Xiang pigs through the following methods. We isolated fibroblasts from tails of Huanjiang Xiang pig and genetically modified them using Xfect transfection. Fibroblasts, either in non-transgenic or transgenic forms, were used as donor cells for reconstructed embryos by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), and in vitro development was monitored after the reconstruction. We found no difference in blastocyst formation rate between non-transgenic and transgenic embryos (10.8% vs. 10.3%; P ≥ 0.05). In addition, we tested whether Scriptaid, a widely used histone deacetylase inhibitor, could enhance the in vitro development of Huanjiang Xiang pig cloned embryos. Treatment with 500 nM Scriptaid for 16 h post-activation significantly increased the blastocyst formation rate (26.1% vs. 10.8% for non-transgenic nuclear transfer groups with vs. without the Scriptaid treatment and 28.5% vs. 10.3% for transgenic nuclear transfer groups with vs. without the Scriptaid treatment; P < 0.05). This study provided a basis for further generation of cloned and transgenically cloned Huanjiang Xiang pigs used in agricultural and biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangxing Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi High Education Key Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Junyu Nie
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi High Education Key Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Shouneng Quan
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi High Education Key Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.,Assisted Reproductive Centre, People's Hospital, Guigang, 537100, Guangxi, China
| | - Huiyan Xu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi High Education Key Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Xiaogan Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi High Education Key Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Yangqing Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi High Education Key Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
| | - Kehuan Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi High Education Key Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.
| | - Shengsheng Lu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi High Education Key Laboratory for Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.
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Gonzalez-Bulnes A, Torres-Rovira L, Astiz S, Ovilo C, Sanchez-Sanchez R, Gomez-Fidalgo E, Perez-Solana M, Martin-Lluch M, Garcia-Contreras C, Vazquez-Gomez M. Fetal Sex Modulates Developmental Response to Maternal Malnutrition. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0142158. [PMID: 26544862 PMCID: PMC4636307 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0142158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of obesity and metabolic diseases is dramatically high in rapidly developing countries. Causes have been related to intrinsic ethnic features with development of a thrifty genotype for adapting to food scarcity, prenatal programming by undernutrition, and postnatal exposure to obesogenic lifestyle. Observational studies in humans and experimental studies in animal models evidence that the adaptive responses of the offspring may be modulated by their sex. In the contemporary context of world globalization, the new question arising is the existence and extent of sex-related differences in developmental and metabolic traits in case of mixed-race. Hence, in the current study, using a swine model, we compared male and female fetuses that were crossbred from mothers with thrifty genotype and fathers without thrifty genotype. Female conceptuses evidence stronger protective strategies for their adequate growth and postnatal survival. In brief, both male and female fetuses developed a brain-sparing effect but female fetuses were still able to maintain the development of other viscerae than the brain (mainly liver, intestine and kidneys) at the expense of carcass development. Furthermore, these morphometric differences were reinforced by differences in nutrient availability (glucose and cholesterol) favoring female fetuses with severe developmental predicament. These findings set the basis for further studies aiming to increase the knowledge on the interaction between genetic and environmental factors in the determination of adult phenotype
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44
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Stegemann R, Buchner DA. Transgenerational inheritance of metabolic disease. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2015; 43:131-140. [PMID: 25937492 PMCID: PMC4626440 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2015.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2015] [Revised: 04/20/2015] [Accepted: 04/22/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic disease encompasses several disorders including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and dyslipidemia. Recently, the incidence of metabolic disease has drastically increased, driven primarily by a worldwide obesity epidemic. Transgenerational inheritance remains controversial, but has been proposed to contribute to human metabolic disease risk based on a growing number of proof-of-principle studies in model organisms ranging from Caenorhabditis elegans to Mus musculus to Sus scrofa. Collectively, these studies demonstrate that heritable risk is epigenetically transmitted from parent to offspring over multiple generations in the absence of a continued exposure to the triggering stimuli. A diverse assortment of initial triggers can induce transgenerational inheritance including high-fat or high-sugar diets, low-protein diets, various toxins, and ancestral genetic variants. Although the mechanistic basis underlying the transgenerational inheritance of disease risk remains largely unknown, putative molecules mediating transmission include small RNAs, histone modifications, and DNA methylation. Due to the considerable impact of metabolic disease on human health, it is critical to better understand the role of transgenerational inheritance of metabolic disease risk to open new avenues for therapeutic intervention and improve upon the current methods for clinical diagnoses and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Stegemann
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, United States
| | - David A Buchner
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, United States; Department of Biological Chemistry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, United States.
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45
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Koopmans SJ, Schuurman T. Considerations on pig models for appetite, metabolic syndrome and obese type 2 diabetes: From food intake to metabolic disease. Eur J Pharmacol 2015; 759:231-9. [PMID: 25814261 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2015.03.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2015] [Revised: 02/06/2015] [Accepted: 03/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
(Mini)pigs have proven to be a valuable animal model in nutritional, metabolic and cardiovascular research and in some other biomedical research areas (toxicology, neurobiology). The large resemblance of (neuro)anatomy, the gastro-intestinal tract, body size, body composition, and the omnivorous food choice and appetite of the pig are additional reasons to select this large animal species for (preclinical) nutritional and pharmacological studies. Both humans and pigs are prone to the development of obesity and related cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension and atherosclerosis. Bad cholesterol (LDL) is high and good cholesterol (HDL) is low in pigs, like in humans. Disease-relevant pig models fill the gap between rodent models and primate species including humans. Diet-induced obese pigs show a phenotype related to the metabolic syndrome including high amounts of visceral fat, fatty organs, insulin resistance and high blood pressure. However, overt hyperglycaemia does not develop within 6 months after initiation of high sugar-fat feeding. Therefore, to accelerate the induction of obese type 2 diabetes, obese pigs can be titrated with streptozotocin, a chemical agent which selectively damages the insulin-producing pancreatic beta-cells. However, insulin is required to maintain obesity. With proper titration of streptozotocin, insulin secretion can be restrained at such a level that hyperglycaemia will be induced but lipolysis is still inhibited due to the fact that inhibition of lipolysis is more sensitive to insulin compared to stimulation of glucose uptake. This strategy may lead to a stable hyperglycaemic, non-ketotic obese pig model which remains anabolic with time without the necessity of exogenous insulin treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sietse Jan Koopmans
- Wageningen UR Livestock Research, de Elst 1 and CARUS Animal Facilities, Bornseweilanden 5, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Teun Schuurman
- Wageningen University, Department of Animal Sciences, Animal Nutrition Group, de Elst 1, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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Shrestha K, Lukasik K, Baufeld A, Vanselow J, Moallem U, Meidan R. Regulation of ovulatory genes in bovine granulosa cells: lessons from siRNA silencing of PTGS2. Reproduction 2015; 149:21-9. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase-2 (PTGS2), tumour necrosis factor-alpha-induced protein-6 (TNFAIP6), pentraxin-3 (PTX3), epidermal growth factor-like factors: amphiregulin (AREG) and epiregulin (EREG) are essential for successful ovulation. In this study, we compared the induction of these ovulatory genes in bovine granulosa cells (GCs) in vivo (after LH surge) and in vitro (forskolin (FRS) treatment). These genes were markedly stimulated in GCs isolated from cows 21 h after LH-surge. In isolated GCs, FRS induced a distinct temporal profile for each gene. Generally, there was a good agreement between the in vivo and in vitro inductions of these genes except for PTX3. Lack of PTX3 induction in isolated GCs culture suggests that other follicular compartments may mediate its induction by LH. Next, to study the role of PTGS2 and prostaglandins (PGs) in the cascade of ovulatory genes, PTGS2 was silenced with siRNA. PTGS2 siRNA caused a marked and specific knockdown of PTGS2 mRNA and PGE2 production (70% compared with scrambled siRNA) in bovine GCs. Importantly, PTGS2 silencing also reduced AREG, EREG and TNFAIP6 mRNA levels but not PTX3. Exogenous PGE2 increased AREG, EREG and TNFAIP6 mRNA levels, further confirming that these genes are prostanoid dependent. A successful and specific knockdown of PTGS2 was also achieved in endometrial cells (EndoCs) expressing PTGS2. Then, cholesterol-conjugated PTGS2 (chol-PTGS2) siRNA that facilitates cells' entry was investigated. In EndoCs, but not in GCs, chol-PTGS2 siRNA succeeded to reduce PTGS2 and PGE2 levels even without transfection reagent. PTGS2 knockdown is a promising tool to critically examine the functions of PTGS2 in the reproductive tract.
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Bussche L, Van de Walle GR. Peripheral Blood-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Promote Angiogenesis via Paracrine Stimulation of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Secretion in the Equine Model. Stem Cells Transl Med 2014; 3:1514-25. [PMID: 25313202 DOI: 10.5966/sctm.2014-0138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have received much attention as a potential treatment of ischemic diseases, including ischemic tissue injury and cardiac failure. The beneficial effects of MSCs are thought to be mediated by their ability to provide proangiogenic factors, creating a favorable microenvironment that results in neovascularization and tissue regeneration. To study this in more detail and to explore the potential of the horse as a valuable translational model, the objectives of the present study were to examine the presence of angiogenic stimulating factors in the conditioned medium (CM) of peripheral blood-derived equine mesenchymal stromal cells (PB-MSCs) and to study their in vitro effect on angiogenesis-related endothelial cell (EC) behavior, including proliferation and vessel formation. Our salient findings were that CM from PB-MSCs contained significant levels of several proangiogenic factors. Furthermore, we found that CM could induce angiogenesis in equine vascular ECs and confirmed that endothelin-1, insulin growth factor binding protein 2, interleukin-8, and platelet-derived growth factor-AA, but not urokinase-type plasminogen activator, were responsible for this enhanced EC network formation by increasing the expression level of vascular endothelial growth factor-A, an important angiogenesis stimulator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leen Bussche
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Gerlinde R Van de Walle
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
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Astiz S, Gonzalez-Bulnes A, Astiz I, Barbero A, Perez-Solana M, Garcia-Real I. Advanced onset of puberty after metformin therapy in swine with thrifty genotype. Exp Physiol 2014; 99:1241-52. [DOI: 10.1113/expphysiol.2014.081455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. Astiz
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal; INIA, Avda. Puerta de Hierro s/n. 28040 Madrid Spain
| | - A. Gonzalez-Bulnes
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal; INIA, Avda. Puerta de Hierro s/n. 28040 Madrid Spain
| | - I. Astiz
- Unidad de Pediatría; Atención Primaria; Centro de Salud Ciudad San Pablo; Avenida de Madrid; 13 Coslada 28022 Madrid Spain
| | - A. Barbero
- Departamento Medicina y Cirugía Animal; Facultad de Veterinaria; Universidad Complutense de Madrid; Ciudad Universitaria s/n; 28040 Madrid Spain
| | - M.L. Perez-Solana
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal; INIA, Avda. Puerta de Hierro s/n. 28040 Madrid Spain
| | - I. Garcia-Real
- Departamento Medicina y Cirugía Animal; Facultad de Veterinaria; Universidad Complutense de Madrid; Ciudad Universitaria s/n; 28040 Madrid Spain
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Prenatal programming of obesity in a swine model of leptin resistance: modulatory effects of controlled postnatal nutrition and exercise. J Dev Orig Health Dis 2014; 5:248-58. [DOI: 10.1017/s2040174414000208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The main role of early nutritional programming in the current rise of obesity and associated diseases is well known. However, translational studies are mostly based in postnatal food excess and, thus, there is a paucity of information on the phenotype of individuals with prenatal deficiencies but adequate postnatal conditions. Thus, we assessed the effects of prenatal programming (comparing descendants from females fed with a diet fulfilling 100 or only 50% of their nutritional requirements for pregnancy) on gene expression, patterns of growth and fattening, metabolic status and puberty attainment of a swine model of obesity/leptin resistance with controlled postnatal nutrition and opportunity of exercise. Maternal restriction was related to changes in the relationships among gene expression of positive (insulin-like growth factors 1 and 2) and negative (myostatin) regulators of muscle growth, with negative correlations in gilts from restricted pregnancies and positive relationships in the control group. In spite of these differences, the patterns of growth and fattening and the metabolic features during juvenile growth were similar in control gilts and gilts from restricted pregnancies. Concomitantly, there was a lack of differences in the timing of puberty attainment. However, after reaching puberty and adulthood, females from restricted pregnancies were heavier and more corpulent than control gilts, though such increases in weight and size were not accompanied by increases in adiposity. In conclusion, in spite of changes in gene expression induced by developmental programming, the propensity for higher weight and adiposity of individuals exposed to prenatal malnutrition may be modulated by controlled food intake and opportunity of physical exercise during infant and juvenile development.
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Hart V, Nováková P, Malkemper EP, Begall S, Hanzal V, Ježek M, Kušta T, Němcová V, Adámková J, Benediktová K, Červený J, Burda H. Dogs are sensitive to small variations of the Earth's magnetic field. Front Zool 2013; 10:80. [PMID: 24370002 PMCID: PMC3882779 DOI: 10.1186/1742-9994-10-80] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2013] [Accepted: 12/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Several mammalian species spontaneously align their body axis with respect to the Earth’s magnetic field (MF) lines in diverse behavioral contexts. Magnetic alignment is a suitable paradigm to scan for the occurrence of magnetosensitivity across animal taxa with the heuristic potential to contribute to the understanding of the mechanism of magnetoreception and identify further functions of magnetosensation apart from navigation. With this in mind we searched for signs of magnetic alignment in dogs. We measured the direction of the body axis in 70 dogs of 37 breeds during defecation (1,893 observations) and urination (5,582 observations) over a two-year period. After complete sampling, we sorted the data according to the geomagnetic conditions prevailing during the respective sampling periods. Relative declination and intensity changes of the MF during the respective dog walks were calculated from daily magnetograms. Directional preferences of dogs under different MF conditions were analyzed and tested by means of circular statistics. Results Dogs preferred to excrete with the body being aligned along the North–South axis under calm MF conditions. This directional behavior was abolished under unstable MF. The best predictor of the behavioral switch was the rate of change in declination, i.e., polar orientation of the MF. Conclusions It is for the first time that (a) magnetic sensitivity was proved in dogs, (b) a measurable, predictable behavioral reaction upon natural MF fluctuations could be unambiguously proven in a mammal, and (c) high sensitivity to small changes in polarity, rather than in intensity, of MF was identified as biologically meaningful. Our findings open new horizons in magnetoreception research. Since the MF is calm in only about 20% of the daylight period, our findings might provide an explanation why many magnetoreception experiments were hardly replicable and why directional values of records in diverse observations are frequently compromised by scatter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vlastimil Hart
- Department of Game Management and Wildlife Biology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, 16521 Praha 6, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Nováková
- Department of Game Management and Wildlife Biology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, 16521 Praha 6, Czech Republic
| | - Erich Pascal Malkemper
- Department of General Zoology, Faculty of Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45117 Essen, Germany
| | - Sabine Begall
- Department of General Zoology, Faculty of Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45117 Essen, Germany
| | - Vladimír Hanzal
- Department of Game Management and Wildlife Biology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, 16521 Praha 6, Czech Republic
| | - Miloš Ježek
- Department of Game Management and Wildlife Biology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, 16521 Praha 6, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Kušta
- Department of Game Management and Wildlife Biology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, 16521 Praha 6, Czech Republic
| | - Veronika Němcová
- Department of Game Management and Wildlife Biology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, 16521 Praha 6, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Adámková
- Department of Game Management and Wildlife Biology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, 16521 Praha 6, Czech Republic
| | - Kateřina Benediktová
- Department of Game Management and Wildlife Biology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, 16521 Praha 6, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Červený
- Department of Game Management and Wildlife Biology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, 16521 Praha 6, Czech Republic
| | - Hynek Burda
- Department of Game Management and Wildlife Biology, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, 16521 Praha 6, Czech Republic.,Department of General Zoology, Faculty of Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45117 Essen, Germany
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